The Best Boat Rentals Near Midland

For a self-operated rental in Midland, expect small motorboats and fishing boats to start around $250–$400 per day, pontoons in the $400–$700 per day range, and larger bowriders or deck boats from about $700–$1,200 per day. Captained private charters and small yachts typically run about $200–$400 per hour depending on group size and vessel, while per-seat sightseeing cruises from Midland’s waterfront are usually $50–$90 per adult. Prices commonly include required safety gear and a quick safety briefing; fuel, taxes, skipper gratuity, and optional add-ons like tubes, catering, or premium sound systems are usually extra. Many operators take a refundable security deposit, which can range from roughly $500 up to $2,500 for higher-end boats.

You’ll find easygoing pontoons for relaxed cruising, bowriders and deck boats for swimming and tubing days, fishing boats for the sheltered bays, classic sailboats for breezy afternoons, and cruiser-style yachts for captained private outings or celebrations. Sightseeing cruise ships also depart from town if you prefer a turn-key experience with onboard amenities.

Choose a captained trip if you want a stress-free day with local route planning, docking, and navigation handled for you—great for groups, events, or if winds pick up on Georgian Bay. Confident boaters often opt to self-operate for flexibility; you’ll complete a rental safety checklist and receive a briefing on local hazards and rules. If you’re on the fence, book a shorter captained outing first, then add self-drive time once you’re comfortable with the area.

The most common pickup points are Midland Harbour/Town Dock near downtown and Bay Port Yachting Centre by Pete Pettersen Park. For trips that explore farther into Severn Sound and Penetanguishene Bay, some captains also stage from the Historic Port of Penetanguishene. If you’re headed to Beausoleil Island in Georgian Bay Islands National Park, departures often originate farther east out of Honey Harbour; your captain will confirm the most convenient meet-up.

From Midland Bay you can cruise past the ADM grain elevator with its famous harbor-front mural, catch views of the Martyrs’ Shrine and Sainte-Marie among the Hurons across the Wye, and glide through island-dotted Severn Sound toward Beausoleil Island—the southern gateway to the 30,000 Islands. On some routes you may spot the tall ships at Discovery Harbour in Penetanguishene, swim off sandy coves on Giants Tomb Island, or weave the scenic channels toward Honey Harbour.

To operate a motorized boat in Canada you need proof of competency. Most locals carry a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), but visitors and renters can meet the requirement by completing a Transport Canada–approved rental boat safety checklist with the operator on the day of your booking. Non-residents can also use an equivalent boater card from their home state or country. The person at the helm must be sober, meet age and horsepower limits, and follow the safety briefing provided before departure.

Yes—families are welcome on most Midland charters and rentals. Boats must carry an approved lifejacket or PFD for every person on board, and reputable operators provide them as part of your booking. Ask in advance for infant and child sizes to ensure proper fit, and note that inflatable PFDs aren’t approved for children under 16. Keep little ones in well-fitted lifejackets anytime on deck and bring sun protection and warm layers even in summer.

Most private charters allow you to bring snacks, picnic items, and non-alcoholic beverages, and many larger boats have coolers or small galleys. Alcohol rules are strict in Ontario: passengers may only consume alcohol on boats with permanent cooking, sleeping, and toilet facilities when the boat is docked or anchored, and the operator must remain sober at all times. Sightseeing cruise ships with licensed bars will handle all food and beverage service; outside alcohol generally isn’t permitted there.

Pets are accepted at the captain’s or owner’s discretion. Many small private boats welcome well-behaved dogs with prior approval, while larger sightseeing vessels typically allow only accredited service animals. If your pup is coming, pack a canine PFD, leash, towel, and a water bowl, and expect a possible cleaning fee.

Captains monitor marine forecasts closely. If high winds, lightning, or unsafe wave conditions are expected, most operators will reschedule you to the closest available time or issue a refund according to the listing’s policy. Light rain usually isn’t a reason to cancel, but Georgian Bay can change quickly, so morning departures are often the smoothest. Build a little flexibility into your itinerary in case conditions shift.

Yes. Many Midland-area captains specialize in private events and can recommend routes with calm water for photos and swimming, help you time a sunset cruise, or arrange simple decor. To keep planning simple, confirm maximum passenger capacity, food and drink policies, and whether you need dockside catering or a waterfront pickup near your accommodation. Booking a captained boat removes driving and docking worries so the host can enjoy the day.

Peak boating season runs from late June through early September, with warmest water in mid‑summer and spectacular fall-colour cruising in late September. Local long weekends—Victoria Day in late May, Canada Day around July 1, Civic Holiday in early August, and Labour Day—book up quickly. In 2025, the Tall Ships Midland festival runs August 15–17 at the harbour, drawing extra visitors. If you’re planning around U.S. Memorial Day, July 4th, or Labor Day weekends, expect higher demand as well. Weekdays are typically quieter, and morning departures offer calmer water and easier parking.

The Pete Pettersen public boat launch at Marina Park Avenue serves Georgian Bay with parking for vehicles and trailers, while Midland Harbour’s Town Dock near downtown is the usual meeting point for captained trips and sightseeing cruises. Bay Port Yachting Centre also hosts many pick-ups for private charters. Your captain will confirm the exact dock and timing once you book.

Popular local excursions include a swim-and-sandbar day at Giants Tomb Island, a cruise through the channels around Beausoleil Island in Georgian Bay Islands National Park, and a history-themed run to Discovery Harbour to see the tall ships in Penetanguishene. Keep an eye out for trumpeter swans and turtles near the Wye Marsh, and in late summer watch for calm, glassy mornings that are perfect for spotting fish and birds along the shoreline.