The Best Boat Rentals in New Hampshire

On the lakes, expect most pontoons and bowriders to run about $500–$800 per day in peak summer, with smaller options sometimes under $500. Wake and surf boats typically cost more, often $900–$1,500 per day. On the Seacoast, private captained harbor or lighthouse cruises commonly start around $300–$400 per hour for small groups. Bareboat lake rentals usually include standard safety gear and a brief orientation; fuel is almost always extra and charged at market rate when you return. Many marinas place a refundable security deposit of about $500–$1,000 on a card. Captained trips often bundle the captain’s fee and fuel in the hourly rate, with gratuity at your discretion. Taxes, cleaning, or accessory rentals (tubes, skis) may be additional, so review your listing’s inclusions before you book.

You’ll find plenty of pontoons for relaxed cruising and sandbar stops, bowriders and deck boats for tubing and sightseeing, and wake/surf boats for watersports on lakes like Winnipesaukee, Squam, Sunapee, Winnisquam, and Newfound. On the coast near Portsmouth and Rye, captained powerboats and small yachts run lighthouse, harbor, and Isles of Shoals trips, plus sunset and special-occasion cruises. Sailboats appear in select lake and coastal listings in season.

Yes—New Hampshire requires anyone 16 or older operating a motorboat over 25 horsepower to hold a boating education certificate. If you don’t have one, many renters take a proctored exam for a 14‑day temporary certificate, or they choose a captained charter so the licensed captain does the driving. Bring your certificate (physical or approved digital copy) with you on the water.

Hire a captain if you want a completely hands-off day, a curated route, or you’re new to local waters. It’s also the easiest option for groups celebrating a special occasion, since the captain manages navigation, docking, and safety. If you’re comfortable at the helm and have the required certificate, a self-operated pontoon or bowrider can be very budget-friendly—especially for full-day lake trips—while still giving you the freedom to swim, picnic, and explore.

Common lake departure points include the Meredith Town Docks and nearby public ramps on Lake Winnipesaukee, the public docks at Weirs Beach in Laconia, and Wolfeboro’s Town Docks. For Lake Sunapee, many outings stage from Sunapee Harbor. On the Seacoast, popular boarding points include Portsmouth’s Prescott Park docks on the Piscataqua River and the state ramp at Rye Harbor. Your exact meeting spot will be confirmed after booking to match parking and load-in logistics.

On the Lakes Region, you’ll cruise past wooded islands and coves with big views of the Belknap and Ossipee ranges, Castle in the Clouds perched above Winnipesaukee, and clear-water swim spots on Squam and Newfound. From Portsmouth, boats pass historic forts and bridges, Portsmouth Harbor Light, Whaleback Light across the channel, working waterfront scenes, and, weather permitting, the Isles of Shoals offshore. Loons and bald eagles are regularly spotted on Squam and other lakes—bring binoculars and keep a respectful distance.

Yes. Boats come with required U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets for all on board. By New Hampshire law, children 12 and under must wear a life jacket while underway unless on a vessel with fully enclosed rails; many families choose to keep them on at all times. Let your host know the ages and approximate weights of children so they can have properly sized vests ready. Most captains also provide a safety briefing before departure.

Most trips are BYO snacks and nonalcoholic drinks, and many captained charters allow responsible alcohol consumption. New Hampshire permits alcohol on boats, but impaired operation is illegal, and some boarding locations (like specific parks) restrict glass or open containers on shore. Pack spill‑proof containers, avoid red wine or staining beverages, and confirm cooler size and glass policies with your host. If you’d rather not juggle provisions, ask about pre-order or dockside pickup options.

Pet policies vary by boat. Some owners welcome well-behaved dogs, while others do not due to upholstery and insurance rules. If pets are allowed, bring a dog life jacket and a small towel or mat. Note that certain public parks and docks on land may prohibit dogs, so plan curbside loading and bathroom breaks accordingly. Always request pet approval in your booking message.

Summer weather here can change quickly. Light rain or passing showers often don’t cancel lake rentals, but trips may be postponed or refunded for unsafe conditions such as severe thunderstorms, high winds, or coastal fog that limits visibility—final calls are typically made by your captain or marina. Read your listing’s policy: some reschedule you within the same season, others issue credits or refunds only if the operator deems conditions unsafe.

Peak boating runs from late May through September, with the warmest water in July and August. Major boating holidays—Memorial Day Weekend, July 4th, and Labor Day—are the busiest and should be booked far in advance. The Lakes Region also sees extra traffic around Weirs Beach during Laconia Motorcycle Week, which typically falls in mid‑June (in 2025 it ran June 14–22). For the smoothest experience and easier parking, choose weekdays or mornings; lakes are usually calmer early, and afternoon winds can add chop. Early fall brings gorgeous foliage cruises with cooler air—layer up and expect shorter daylight.

Absolutely. Pontoons are ideal on the lakes for casual celebrations with swim stops and a picnic, while captained coastal cruises add a unique backdrop for photos and sunset toasts. Share your headcount, preferred date, and vibe (relaxed cruise, swim day, or sightseeing) in your inquiry so your host can suggest the right boat, route, and add‑ons like floats, tubing gear, or catering. Many boats cap groups at 6–12 guests, so larger parties may need multiple vessels.

Two favorites: on Lake Winnipesaukee, anchor at the shallow, sandy flats around Braun Bay for a classic sandbar day—go early on weekends and follow posted no‑wake and rafting guidance. On the Seacoast, a lighthouse and Isles of Shoals cruise from Portsmouth combines history, open‑ocean views, and frequent wildlife sightings. If you prefer quieter water and loons, consider a nature‑focused cruise on Squam Lake or a late‑day foliage run in September or early October.