The Best Boat Rentals Near Point Pleasant Beach

Most captained cruising boats around Point Pleasant Beach run about $150–$250 per hour for bowriders and center consoles, with larger yachts typically $300–$600 per hour depending on size, season, and day of the week. Local fishing charters commonly price half-day trips from roughly $700–$1,200 and full-day offshore trips from about $1,400–$2,000+. Rates generally include the boat, required safety gear, and a professional captain when applicable; many trips also include fuel for set routes, Bluetooth stereo, coolers and ice. Fishing charters usually include bait and tackle. Taxes, gratuity, and add‑ons like tubing, catering, or extended fuel use may be extra.

You’ll find a good mix for cruising and fishing: center consoles and sportfishing boats for inshore and offshore trips, comfortable bowriders and pontoons for sandbar stops and swimming, midsize cruisers for sunset and dock‑and‑dine outings, plus occasional sailboats and motor yachts for private celebrations. Choose the boat style that matches your group size, budget, and whether you plan to fish, cruise the river and bay, or run the coastline.

Most trip planners choose a captained charter because the Manasquan Inlet and Point Pleasant Canal can have swift currents, busy traffic, and shifting conditions. A captain handles navigation, docking, and local knowledge so you can relax. If you prefer to operate the boat yourself, confirm you meet New Jersey’s boating requirements and the owner’s experience criteria; many owners reserve self-operated rentals for experienced boaters familiar with local waterways.

Common meeting points include marinas along Channel Drive by the Manasquan Inlet in Point Pleasant Beach, such as Southside Marina on Channel Drive, and spots along the Manasquan River like Clark’s Landing Marina on Arnold Avenue in Point Pleasant. Many charters also stage just across the river in Brielle at Hoffman's Marina or Brielle Yacht Club. Your exact pickup is coordinated after booking and may vary with tides, parking, and the day’s plan.

Typical cruises take you past the Manasquan Inlet jetties, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk and beach, and the historic Coast Guard station at the inlet. Inland routes showcase the Manasquan River, Bay Head’s shoreline homes, and the Point Pleasant Canal leading to Barnegat Bay; ocean runs may spot dolphins in summer and, on occasion, migrating whales offshore. On summer Thursday nights, you can often watch the boardwalk fireworks from the water, weather permitting.

For captained charters, you don’t need any license. To operate a powerboat yourself in New Jersey, most operators must hold a New Jersey Boating Safety Certificate; a separate NJ “boat license” is only required on non‑tidal (inland) waters. The Manasquan River, Inlet, Canal, and Barnegat Bay are tidal, so the safety certificate is the key credential there. Limited exceptions allow adults to operate certain rented powerboats after completing approved pre‑rental instruction, but availability depends on the boat and owner. When in doubt, ask the owner in your booking thread what’s required for your specific trip.

Yes—families are welcome on most boats. Coast Guard–approved life jackets are carried for everyone on board, and New Jersey requires children 12 and under to wear a properly fitted life jacket whenever the boat is underway unless they’re inside an enclosed cabin. Tell the owner your group’s ages and sizes so child and infant jackets are ready; some captains set minimum ages for ocean runs and may suggest calmer river or bay routes for younger kids.

Most captains allow you to bring snacks, picnic fare, and beverages. Many boats supply a cooler and ice; glass is often discouraged, and hard liquor is commonly restricted. If you’re planning a special meal, ask about dock‑and‑dine stops along the Manasquan River or near the inlet. Always confirm alcohol policies and any catering or cleanup fees before you book.

Pet policies vary by boat. Small, well‑behaved dogs are often allowed on private charters with advance approval and may require a pet fee. Bring a leash, a towel or mat to protect seats, and fresh water for your pup. If anyone in your group has allergies, let the owner know so they can prepare accordingly.

Captains closely watch marine forecasts for wind, storms, and small‑craft advisories. If the captain deems conditions unsafe, trips are typically rescheduled or refunded according to the booking terms. Summer afternoons can bring pop‑up thunderstorms and ocean swells can build with onshore breezes, so morning departures are often smoother. Keep your phone handy on trip day for any timing updates around tides and weather.

Absolutely. Many boats host special occasions, from intimate birthdays to bachelorette cruises and team events. Share your headcount, vibe (chill cruise, sandbar swim, or scenic sunset), and any extras like decorations, a cake, or a photographer. Boats typically carry 6 to 12 guests depending on size and certification, so confirm capacity early and secure weekend or holiday dates well in advance.

Peak boating runs from late May through early September, with the busiest dates on Memorial Day weekend, July 4th, and Labor Day weekend. September often has warm water and lighter crowds, and the town’s Festival of the Sea in mid‑to‑late September brings extra buzz onshore. Weekdays generally have better availability and calmer waterways than Saturdays, and mornings are typically smoother than late afternoons. Sunset cruises are popular all summer, especially on Thursdays when boardwalk fireworks are scheduled.

Yes—many skippers offer relaxed sandbar days. “Treasure Island” (Osborn/Nienstedt Island) sits right on the Manasquan River and is a classic local swim stop. Tices Shoal is a well‑known Barnegat Bay anchorage reachable via the Point Pleasant Canal; it’s a longer day but great for raft‑ups and beach walks to Island Beach State Park. Ask your captain about travel time, anchoring depth, and the best tides for your date, and bring sun protection, floats, and a cooler.