The Best Boat Rentals in Kelowna

Most standard powerboats and pontoons on Okanagan Lake run about CA$200–$300 per hour, with full-day rates commonly between CA$800 and CA$1,300 depending on size and performance. High-end wake and surf boats can be higher, especially on summer weekends. Lifejackets are included, and water toys can often be added; fuel is usually extra and paid at return. Captained options and sailboats are priced differently and may bundle instruction or a skipper. Check your listing for deposit amounts and whether cleaning is included. (kelownadowntownmarina.com, kelownayachtclub.com)

You’ll find a wide mix: comfortable pontoons for groups, bowriders for cruising and swimming stops, dedicated wakesurf/wakeboard boats, personal watercraft, and even sailboats for a slower-paced day. Fleet availability peaks in summer and ranges from entry-level cruisers to premium surf boats. (kelownadowntownmarina.com, kelownayachtclub.com)

In Canada, anyone operating a motorized pleasure craft needs “proof of competency.” That can be a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) or, if you’re renting, a completed Rental Boat Safety Checklist provided at pickup (valid for the rental period). Non-residents can use an equivalent from their home state or country. Captained charters don’t require you to be licensed.

Yes. Many listings offer a professional skipper so your group can relax, focus on the playlist, and enjoy the views. Going captained is popular for celebrations and for groups unfamiliar with the lake; some marinas even publish add-on captain rates during peak season.

Common downtown departure points include Kelowna Downtown Marina on Water Street and the nearby Water Street Boat Launch. In the Mission area, many trips start by the Eldorado Resort Marina and the adjacent Cook Road Boat Launch. Sutherland Bay Park is another pickup point for smaller craft. Always confirm the exact meeting spot in your booking details. (kelownadowntownmarina.com, kelowna.ca, eldoradoresortmarina.ca)

Expect big Okanagan scenery: the William R. Bennett Bridge spanning the lake, the slopes of Knox Mountain rising above downtown, and vineyard-covered hillsides across in West Kelowna. South of town, the shoreline of Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park offers rugged cliffs, coves, and calm bays for swim stops. With more time, some boaters point the bow toward Rattlesnake Island—home to Ogopogo lore—near Peachland. (en.wikipedia.org, kelowna.ca, bcparks.ca, thewestsidewinetrail.com)

Yes—families are welcome. Operators supply approved, properly sized lifejackets or PFDs for everyone, and children should wear them at all times while on deck. If you’re bringing an infant, know that Transport Canada recommends waiting until a child is at least 9 kg (20 lb) and suggests parents bring a well-fitting infant lifejacket if required.

Bringing snacks and non-alcoholic drinks is widely allowed, and you can top up ice, water, and sunscreen at downtown marina shops. Alcohol has strict rules in B.C.: open liquor is only permitted on boats that the public can’t access and that have permanent sleeping, cooking, and toilet facilities; impaired operation is illegal. When in doubt, go alcohol-free or book a captained cruise on a vessel that meets the requirements. (kelownadowntownmarina.com, rcmp.ca)

Many pontoons and cruisers welcome well-behaved dogs, but policies vary by owner and boat type. If you’re planning to bring a pet, confirm in advance, bring a towel and leash, and consider a canine lifejacket for comfort and safety.

Summer brings hot, sunny days with generally light winds; mornings are often the smoothest, while breezes can pick up later. Operators watch forecasts and may adjust routes, reschedule, or cancel if conditions become unsafe (including thunderstorms or heavy smoke). If flexibility matters, choose morning slots or weekdays during peak season. (tourismkelowna.com, weatherspark.com)

Absolutely. Spacious pontoons and surf boats are ideal for 8–12 guests, and captained options let the host focus on the fun. Summer weekends book out fast, especially around major lakefront events and fireworks, so reserve early and share your plan (guest count, music, swim stops) with your captain or owner.

Peak boating season runs May through September, with the warmest lake temps and longest days in July and August. Canada Day on July 1 features evening fireworks over Tugboat Bay and draws big crowds on the water; the BC Day long weekend (first Monday in August) and Labour Day weekend are also very busy. For easier parking and calmer water, book weekdays or morning departures, and consider June or September for great weather with fewer boats. (tourismkelowna.com, festivalskelowna.com)

Choose a captained trip if you want a turn‑key day with local route suggestions, docking handled for you, and no licensing worries. If you’re comfortable at the helm and have proof of competency (PCOC or the rental safety checklist), a self‑drive rental gives you full control of your schedule. Some groups combine both by booking a captain for the first few hours, then taking over once they’re oriented.

Yes—longer trips can head south toward Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park’s boat-in coves and, with enough time, to Rattlesnake Island near Peachland. Discuss range, fuel, and conditions with your captain or owner before committing to a longer route, and always build in time for a relaxed swim stop. (bcparks.ca, en.wikipedia.org)