The Best Boat Rentals in Arlington

Most pontoons on nearby Joe Pool Lake typically run about $90–$150 per hour with common minimums of two to four hours, while wake and ski boats are often $150–$200+ per hour depending on features and captain service. On Lake Arlington itself, the city-operated pontoon rates are usually about $180 for two hours, around $275 for four hours, and roughly $450 for a full day. Prices generally include U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets and basic safety gear, and many listings include a Bluetooth speaker, bimini shade, and fuel. Extras like water mats, tubes, or a professional captain may be included or priced separately, so it’s smart to check the listing details before you book.

The most common options for the Arlington area are comfortable pontoon and tritoon boats for groups, wake and ski boats for tubing or wake sports, bowriders and deck boats for cruising, and fishing boats set up for casting on coves and points. Personal watercraft may also be available on certain lakes nearby. Larger yachts are less common on smaller inland lakes, but you will find a few cabin cruiser–style options for sightseeing and celebrations.

You can choose a captained trip for a hands-off, stress-free outing, or select a self-operated rental if you’re comfortable at the helm. If you plan to operate the boat yourself in Texas, anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 must complete an approved boater education course to operate a motorboat of more than 15 horsepower, and operators must be at least 13 years old or have required supervision. Captained charters remove that requirement for you as a guest and are a great option if your group wants a designated sober skipper and local know-how.

On Lake Arlington, common launch points include Richard Simpson Park on West Arkansas Lane and Bowman Springs Park on Poly Webb Road; some operators also use Eugene McCray Park on the Fort Worth side of the lake. Many Joe Pool Lake outings depart from the Lynn Creek Park and Marina area in Grand Prairie or from the ramps within Cedar Hill State Park. Your exact meeting spot will be shared after booking so you can go straight to the dock, unload coolers, and get on the water quickly.

Expect tree-lined shores, wide open water, and quiet coves on Lake Arlington, along with regular sightings of great blue herons, great egrets, double‑crested cormorants, ospreys, pelicans in season, and kingfishers. Joe Pool Lake offers long views of the Cedar Hill State Park shoreline, bridge crossings, and calm inlets ideal for anchoring. Sunset cruises are especially scenic on both lakes, with soft evening light and frequent wildlife activity near the banks.

Texas requires boater education for anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 who will operate a motorboat over 15 horsepower. Operators must be at least 13 to drive alone; younger boaters need an adult on board who can legally operate the vessel. If you book a captained charter, you don’t need to meet these operator requirements because your licensed captain handles the driving. Bring a valid photo ID, and keep proof of boater education with you if you’ll be at the helm.

Yes, families are welcome. Children count toward the boat’s maximum capacity, and state law requires all kids under 13 to wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket while the boat is underway on vessels under 26 feet. Your rental will include life jackets sized for adults and children, plus required safety equipment. If you have infants or toddlers, tell the owner your child’s weight so they can confirm the right sizes are on board before departure.

Most listings allow you to bring snacks, non-alcoholic drinks, and a cooler. If your cruise is on Lake Arlington, be aware that city rules prohibit possession and consumption of alcohol on the lake and in its parks, so plan for mocktails and plenty of water. On nearby lakes like Joe Pool, individual owner policies apply, and many still prefer no glass containers and ask that you pack out all trash. If you want to decorate for a celebration or bring a small grill, message the owner to confirm what’s allowed on that specific boat.

Pet policies vary by boat. Many owners are dog‑friendly and simply ask for advance notice, a small cleaning fee, or a towel/blanket to protect seats. For everyone’s comfort, bring water and a leash, keep pets off vinyl when wet, and consider a pet life jacket for smaller dogs or first‑timers. Always check the listing or ask the captain before booking if you plan to bring a pet.

North Texas can see pop‑up thunderstorms, gusty afternoon winds, and summer heat. Morning trips are typically calmer and cooler. If unsafe weather is forecast, most owners will reschedule or approve a weather cancellation per the listing’s policy, while light rain or overcast skies may not qualify. Review the cancellation terms on your booking and message the owner the day before if conditions are changing so you can pivot to an earlier start or an alternate date.

Absolutely. Pontoons and deck boats are ideal for birthdays, family reunions, and low‑key bachelor or bachelorette outings, with typical capacities of eight to twelve guests. For larger groups, consider booking multiple boats and coordinating a shared anchor spot. Captained trips keep the day simple: your captain manages the route, docking, and safety so you can focus on music, photos, and the celebration.

Peak boating season runs from late spring through early fall, with the busiest days on Memorial Day weekend, July 4th, and Labor Day weekend. Weekdays or early morning departures are your best bet for smoother water, easier parking, and more flexible pickup times. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures and lighter crowds, while midsummer brings warm water and long evenings; just plan shade, hydration, and sunscreen for afternoon trips.

If your outing stays on Lake Arlington, plan a cruise-and-chill day rather than swim stops. The City of Arlington prohibits swimming and wading on Lake Arlington; tubing is allowed only when towed behind a powerboat and within posted rules. If swimming off the boat is important to your group, ask your host about booking on Joe Pool Lake, which has designated swimming areas from shore and popular coves for in‑water breaks when conditions are safe.