The Best Boat Rentals Near St. Louis

Expect most private rentals to range from about $100–$150 per hour for smaller pontoons and fishing boats, and roughly $175–$350 per hour for larger pontoons, deck boats, or trips with a captain. Half‑day outings often fall between $450 and $900, while full‑day charters can land around $800 to $1,400 depending on the boat size, captain, and itinerary. Safety gear and standard cleaning are usually included, and many boats come with Bluetooth speakers and coolers; fuel may be included for short set‑route cruises but is sometimes billed separately for longer runs. Taxes, platform fees, and optional gratuity are extra.

The most common options are comfortable pontoons for relaxed cruising, deck and bowrider boats for sightseeing or casual tubing, and fishing boats for the river. Wake and ski boats are available in limited numbers, and larger cabin boats or small yachts can be booked for private celebrations. Sailboats are less common on the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers due to current and commercial traffic, but you may see occasional listings.

If you’re new to river boating or simply want a stress‑free day, book a captained trip. Local captains handle currents, towboat traffic, and changing river levels so you can focus on your group. Experienced boaters may choose a self‑operated rental where permitted, but some owners require a captain for downtown pickups or for larger groups. When in doubt, select “with captain” to simplify planning and safety.

Common pickup points include the St Louis riverfront by the Gateway Arch along Leonor K. Sullivan Boulevard, Alton Marina in Alton, Illinois, and Grafton Harbor in Grafton at the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers. You may also find departures from Port Charles Harbor near St. Charles, Missouri, and the public ramp at Columbia Bottom Conservation Area where the Missouri meets the Mississippi. Your exact meeting spot will be confirmed after booking.

Highlights include the Gateway Arch and the Eads Bridge framing the skyline, historic riverfront warehouses by Laclede’s Landing, and long river views with working towboats and barges. North of town you can cruise toward the Chain of Rocks Bridge and limestone bluffs, while trips upriver from Alton and Grafton pass scenic cliffs, the Clark Bridge, and broad backwaters that are great for wildlife spotting.

For self‑operated rentals, Missouri generally requires a boating safety education card for operators born after January 1, 1984 when running motorized vessels on state lakes, and Illinois requires a safety certificate for operators born on or after January 1, 1998 when operating powered boats. Because St Louis trips may use the Mississippi or Missouri Rivers and sometimes depart from Illinois marinas, requirements can vary by waterway and age. If you prefer to skip the paperwork, book a captained charter.

Yes—families are welcome. Every legal charter or rental provides Coast Guard‑approved life jackets for all passengers, with child sizes available; be sure to share kids’ ages and approximate weights so the right fit is waiting. Captains carry the required safety equipment and will brief your group before departure. Strollers aren’t ideal on most boats, so consider compact carriers or soft‑sided bags for gear.

Most private charters allow you to bring snacks, picnic items, and beverages, and many provide a cooler with ice. Glass is often discouraged, and some owners may limit hard liquor or red wine to keep decks clean and safe. If you’re celebrating, ask about catering drop‑offs or meeting at a marina with nearby restaurants for easy pickup.

Many boats are pet‑friendly with advance approval, and a small cleaning fee may apply. Bring a leash, a non‑spill water bowl, and a well‑fitting pet life jacket. If your itinerary includes busy docks or longer cruising segments, consider your pet’s comfort with heat, noise, and engine vibration.

Summer brings heat and pop‑up thunderstorms, and spring can see higher river levels and floating debris. Captains monitor radar and current; if unsafe conditions arise, they’ll work with you to reschedule or cancel per the listing’s policy. To stay flexible, keep an eye on the forecast the week before your trip and avoid tight post‑cruise commitments in case departure times shift slightly for weather.

Absolutely. Private boats are a great setting for milestone celebrations and team events. Many listings allow simple decorations, custom playlists over Bluetooth, and BYO desserts. For smooth planning, confirm your headcount early, share any surprise elements with the captain, and consider a captained charter so your host can relax instead of driving.

Peak boating runs from late May through September, with Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day among the busiest dates. Fair St. Louis and other riverfront festivities can attract crowds near the Arch around early July. Weekdays and morning departures are typically calmer and more affordable, while sunset cruises offer cooler temps and great skyline views. Spring and fall shoulder seasons bring milder weather and lighter traffic, though river levels can fluctuate.

Yes—popular routes include cruising past the Gateway Arch at golden hour, visiting the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, and heading toward Alton and Grafton for bluff views and winter bald‑eagle watching. Ask your captain about the best timing, as river levels, tow traffic, and seasonal closures can affect where you go.