The Best Boat Rentals Near Atlanta

Most trip planners should budget about $60–$150 per hour for standard pontoons, $100–$200 per hour for wake and ski boats, and $160–$300+ per hour for larger cruisers or small yachts. Half‑day outings commonly run $250–$450, with full‑day lake trips often $400–$900 depending on boat size, season, and whether a captain is included. Your booking generally includes U.S. Coast Guard–approved safety gear, a Bimini or shade, and a Bluetooth sound system. Extras like tubes, floating mats, fuel, and cleaning fees vary by listing. Captained charters usually include the captain’s time; self‑operated rentals may require a refundable damage deposit.

You’ll see a wide mix: roomy pontoons and tritoons for casual cruising and swim coves, wake and surf boats for watersports, versatile deck boats for all‑around fun, and mid‑size cruisers or small yachts for celebrations. Listings range from simple, family‑friendly setups to premium boats with upgraded sound, lounge space, and sun decks.

Both options are available. If you prefer a hands‑off day, choose a captained charter and let a local pro handle docking, routing, and safety. If you want to drive, many owners allow qualified renters to self‑operate. In Georgia, anyone born on or after January 1, 1998 must complete a state‑approved boater education course to operate a motorized vessel. Some owners may still require a captain based on insurance, boat size, or your experience, so check the listing details before you book.

Most trips meet at marinas and public ramps on Lake Lanier and Lake Allatoona. Common Lake Lanier pickup points include Holiday Marina in Buford, Aqualand Marina in Flowery Branch, and the East Bank/Buford Dam area boat ramps. On Lake Allatoona, frequent departures are from Park Marina at Red Top Mountain State Park, Little River Marina near Woodstock, Victoria Harbour in Cherokee County, and the popular Galts Ferry boat ramp. Your captain or owner will confirm the exact meet‑up spot and parking details after you book.

Expect wooded shorelines, quiet coves, and big‑sky views of the North Georgia foothills. On Lake Lanier, scenic highlights include the islands near the south end, long cruising channels around Buford Dam, and sights near Lake Lanier Olympic Park. On Lake Allatoona, you’ll cruise past Red Top Mountain’s rust‑hued hillsides, swim‑friendly coves, and lively marina areas—great spots for photos at sunset.

If you book a captained trip, you don’t need a boating license—the captain handles operations. For self‑operated rentals, Georgia requires boat operators born on or after January 1, 1998 to complete a Georgia DNR‑approved boater education course; operators 16 and older must carry valid ID. Owners may ask for proof of course completion and can set additional experience requirements for their specific boat.

Yes—families are welcome on most listings. Boats come equipped with life jackets, and Georgia law requires children under 13 to wear a properly fitting life jacket any time the boat is underway. If you’re bringing toddlers, tell the owner your child’s weight and size in advance to ensure the right PFDs are on board. Many boats also have ladders, shaded seating, and calm‑water swim stops that work well for kids.

Most captains and owners allow you to bring snacks, picnic foods, and beverages, and many boats have coolers or space for your own. To keep decks safe, glass containers and messy, stain‑prone items are often discouraged. Passengers may bring alcohol on many leisure charters, but your operator must remain sober—Boating Under the Influence rules apply on Georgia waters. Ask your captain about any restrictions, ice availability, and whether catering or a floating mat can be added.

Many listings are dog‑friendly, especially on pontoons, but policies vary. Some owners limit pets by size or charge a cleaning fee. If you do bring a pup, pack a leash for the marina, a non‑spill water bowl, and a pet‑fit life jacket. Always confirm pet rules with the owner before booking.

Summer in metro Atlanta can bring pop‑up thunderstorms and gusty afternoon breezes, especially from late May through August. Captains monitor radar and lake conditions and may adjust departure times, route, or swim stops for safety. Each listing has its own weather and cancellation policy—many offer reschedules or refunds for unsafe conditions—so review those details when you book. For the smoothest water and the calmest crowds, morning departures are your friend.

Absolutely. Pontoons and tritoons comfortably host 8–12 guests for casual celebrations, while larger cruisers suit milestone events. Many boats include Bluetooth speakers and easy swim access; you can often add a floating mat or tubing to level‑up the fun. Share your headcount, preferred vibe (chill cruise or active watersports), and any must‑see areas when you inquire so your captain can tailor the plan.

Peak boating season runs from late spring through early fall, with prime months from May to September. Holiday weekends—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—book up quickly and bring heavier traffic on both Lake Lanier and Lake Allatoona. A notable late‑summer event is the Atlanta Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival at Lake Lanier Olympic Park, held annually in early September (in 2025 it’s on September 6), which can make nearby areas busier. For fewer crowds and smoother cruising, choose weekdays or early‑morning departures; late afternoons are great for warm swims and golden‑hour photos.