The Best Boat Rentals in Bellevue

On Lake Washington, most small powerboats and pontoons run about $150–$250 per hour on weekdays and $200–$300 per hour on sunny weekends and holidays, typically with a 3–4 hour minimum. Watersports/wake boats and premium pontoons trend $200–$350 per hour, while mid‑size cruisers and day yachts are commonly $300–$600 per hour. Larger luxury yachts for groups and celebrations can be $600–$1,000+ per hour. Prices often include standard safety gear and basic orientation; captained trips usually include the captain’s time and basic fuel for slow cruising, while faster cruising, extra fuel, cleaning, taxes, and gratuity may be additional. Booking early for peak dates usually secures better rates and departure times.

Expect an easy mix tailored to Lake Washington: comfortable pontoons for casual cruising, nimble bowriders and runabouts, wake/surf boats with towers for watersports, and a selection of cabin cruisers and small yachts for upscale outings. Sailboats are less common from Bellevue pickups but are available nearby on Lake Washington and Lake Union if you prefer a sailing experience. Choose captained or drive‑it‑yourself options depending on your comfort level and group size.

You can do either. Many listings offer a licensed captain so you can relax and focus on hosting. If you prefer to operate the boat yourself, Washington allows renters of motorboats to complete a motor‑vessel rental safety checklist at pickup, and many operators handle this during check‑in. A Washington Boater Education Card is widely accepted and may be required for certain boats; captained charters do not require you to hold a card. If you’re planning a busy weekend or event day, a captain is the low‑stress choice.

Popular, straightforward meetup points include the SE 40th Street Boat Launch (Bellevue’s primary public ramp with dedicated trailer parking), the Bellevue Marina at Meydenbauer Bay (visitor moorage for short pickups within walking distance of downtown), and the Sweyolocken Boat Launch at Mercer Slough (limited, small‑craft access). Some trips also arrange pickups in the Newport Shores/Newport SkyLaunch area, or just north across the water at Kirkland’s Marina Park or Carillon Point. Your captain or owner will confirm the exact dock, parking details, and any local launch fees in your confirmation.

From Bellevue you’ll cruise past sleek waterfront neighborhoods and parks, with skyline views of Bellevue and—on wider loops—Seattle in the distance. Highlights include Mercer Island’s forested shoreline, the floating bridges (I‑90’s Lacey V. Murrow and Homer M. Hadley bridges and the SR‑520 Evergreen Point Floating Bridge), and on clear days, Mount Rainier on the horizon. Wildlife sightings are common in and around the Mercer Slough outlet and along quieter coves, including great blue herons, turtles, and the occasional river otter. Game‑day or campus loops can also pass Husky Stadium on the lake’s north end.

For motorboats with 15 hp or more, Washington generally requires a Boater Education Card to operate. However, renters can typically complete a Washington‑approved safety and equipment checklist at pickup to legally operate the rental during the rental period, which many hosts facilitate on site. Visitors with equivalent out‑of‑state cards are recognized. If you book a captained charter, the licensed captain handles all legalities so your group can simply show up and enjoy.

Yes—families are welcome. Every rental includes U.S. Coast Guard‑approved life jackets for the listed capacity, with child sizes available on request. Washington law requires life jackets on board for everyone and requires children to wear one while underway on many smaller vessels, so plan to have kids suited up before departure. If you have infants or toddlers, consider bringing your own properly fitted jacket to ensure the best comfort and fit.

Most boats allow you to bring snacks, picnic spreads, and non‑alcoholic beverages, and many provide a cooler with ice. Moderate alcohol is commonly permitted for adult guests on private charters; the operator must remain sober, and some owners restrict glass containers, red wine, or hard liquor to keep decks safe and clean. If you’d like catering, ask in advance—many captains can arrange platters or recommend easy dockside pickups near the marina.

Dogs are often welcome on a case‑by‑case basis. Request approval when booking, keep nails trimmed to protect upholstery, and bring a canine life jacket if your pup will be on deck. Expect a modest pet or cleaning fee, and note that leashes are typically required on docks and at pickup points.

Summer on Lake Washington is generally dry and mild, but wind, showers, and the occasional smoke advisory can affect conditions. Most owners will run in light rain but will reschedule or refund if conditions are unsafe due to high wind, lightning, or poor visibility. Each listing sets its own policy, so review the cancellation window before you book. To avoid choppier afternoon winds and heavier traffic, consider morning or sunset departures, especially for families or first‑time boaters.

Absolutely. Lake Washington boats are set up for group fun, with most small boats rated for 6–12 guests and larger yachts available for bigger groups. Captains can suggest scenic swim coves, calm cruise loops, and photo‑ready skyline spots. Share your occasion, headcount, and preferred vibe (chill cruise, swimming, or watersports) when you inquire so the host can match you with the right boat, itinerary length (3–4 hours works well), and pickup point.

Peak season runs late May through early September, with July and August offering the warmest, driest days. Major boating holidays—Memorial Day (May 26, 2025), Independence Day (July 4, 2025), and Labor Day (September 1, 2025)—book out early and may carry premium pricing or longer minimums. Weekdays are lighter, often cheaper, and easier for parking; mornings are typically calmer, while golden‑hour cruises deliver gorgeous sunset color and city lights. If you’re eyeing a weekend in July or August, reserve a few weeks ahead for the best boat and time slot.

Every legal charter or rental supplies the required safety gear, including Coast Guard‑approved life jackets for the boat’s capacity and essential equipment like sound devices and fire extinguishers. Captained trips include a professional at the helm who knows local speed zones, no‑wake areas, and permitted anchorage spots. If you’re operating the boat yourself, your host will review local rules, the rental safety checklist, and route suggestions to keep things smooth and stress‑free.

Yes—Seafair Weekend (August 1–3, 2025) is one of the lake’s biggest boat days, with hydroplane racing and the Boeing Seafair Air Show featuring the U.S. Navy Blue Angels over Lake Washington. Expect very heavy marine traffic and special event patrols; most groups book a captained boat and depart early. Anchorage for viewing is popular on the Seattle side in Andrews Bay (near Seward Park) within the marked zone; east‑side cities enforce stricter anchoring rules along much of their shoreline. If Seafair is your goal, reserve well in advance and follow your captain’s instructions on timing and pickup.