The Best Boat Rentals in Nashville

Most captained pontoon and wake boat charters around Nashville run about $125–$200 per hour, with common minimums of 2–4 hours. Small cruisers and entry-level yachts typically range from about $200–$300 per hour. If you prefer to drive yourself, full‑day pontoon rentals on Percy Priest or Old Hickory Lake are usually in the $375–$600 per day range depending on the boat, day of week, and season. Captained listings often include the captain’s fee and basic safety gear, and some include fuel, while others bill fuel after the trip. Self‑operated rentals include life jackets and required equipment, and may require a damage deposit (often up to about $1,500). Exact pricing, what’s included, and security deposits vary by listing and date.

Nashville’s lakes and the Cumberland River are ideal for stable, social boats like pontoons and tritoons, plus wake and surf boats for watersports. You’ll also find deck boats, small cruisers, and a handful of larger cabin boats and yachts for more upscale outings. Double‑deck pontoons with slides are popular on the lakes for swim stops, while compact cruisers work well for skyline cruises on the river.

You can book either way. Captained charters are the most hands‑off option and are great for bachelorettes, birthdays, or anyone who doesn’t want to worry about navigation, docking, or local no‑wake zones. If you want to operate the boat yourself, many pontoons and deck boats are available as self‑drive, provided you meet age and boater‑education requirements and are comfortable at the helm. For first‑timers or larger groups, a captain usually makes the day easier and safer.

On Percy Priest Lake, common meeting points include Elm Hill Marina and Four Corners Marina, as well as the marina at Nashville Shores on Bell Road. For Cumberland River skyline cruises, Rock Harbor Marina is a convenient West Nashville pickup. On Old Hickory Lake to the northeast, Blue Turtle Bay Marina is a frequent departure spot. Your exact meeting location will be confirmed after you book and can vary by boat and date.

On the Cumberland River, you’ll cruise past the Nashville skyline, Nissan Stadium, and the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge, with views of Riverfront Park and the bridges lit up near sunset. On the lakes, expect wooded shorelines, quiet coves, islands, and plenty of swim spots. Percy Priest offers calm anchorages for floating and relaxing, while Old Hickory Lake features broad open water with coves and sandbars popular on summer weekends.

To operate a motorized rental yourself in Tennessee, residents born on or after January 1, 1989 must hold a Tennessee Boating Safety Education Certificate. Visitors born on or after that date need a NASBLA‑approved boater card from their home state. If you book a captained charter, you don’t need a boating license because the professional captain operates the vessel. Always bring a government‑issued photo ID to your rental.

Yes. Families are welcome, and every rental provides U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets. Tennessee law requires children 12 and under to wear a life jacket while the boat is underway. If you’re bringing infants or toddlers, confirm sizing in advance; many operators carry a range of sizes, but parents sometimes prefer to bring a familiar, well‑fitting PFD for the youngest passengers.

Most charters are BYO for snacks and drinks, and many allow alcohol for adult passengers. Cans and reusable bottles are preferred; glass is commonly discouraged or restricted. Coolers are typically fine, and some captained boats provide ice and water. If you plan to grill or bring elaborate catering, check the listing first—grills are often not allowed on rental pontoons, and space can be limited. Always designate a sober operator for any self‑drive rental.

Many owners allow well‑behaved dogs with advance approval, and some may charge a modest cleaning fee. Bring a leash, towel, and a dog‑specific life jacket if your pet will swim. To protect upholstery, keep paws off seats and dry your pup before they reboard. Always confirm pet policies on your specific listing before booking.

Summer in Middle Tennessee can bring pop‑up thunderstorms and brief rain showers, especially in the afternoon. Captains and rental companies monitor forecasts and local conditions, and will not operate in unsafe weather. If the operator cancels for safety, most will reschedule or offer a weather credit per the listing’s policy. For the smoothest water and best odds of calm conditions, consider a morning start and build a little flexibility into your plans.

Absolutely. Boats are a favorite for Nashville celebrations because they’re easy to organize and keep everyone together. Most pontoons and small cruisers are rated for about 8–12 guests; larger groups often book two boats that raft up at a cove. Captained charters simplify everything: you bring the playlist, food, and drinks, and they handle the route, anchoring, and safety so you can focus on the fun.

Peak season runs from May through September, with warm water and the busiest lake days around Memorial Day, July 4, and Labor Day. Early June also brings CMA Fest in downtown Nashville, which increases river traffic and crowds near the waterfront. For easier parking and lower demand, choose weekdays over weekends and morning departures over afternoons. Shoulder months in late April and October can be beautiful with lighter crowds, but water and air temps are cooler—pack layers.

On Percy Priest Lake, boaters often anchor in calm areas near Bryant Grove, Smith Springs, and Anderson Beach, with lively tie‑ups forming on warm weekends. Old Hickory Lake has popular shallow sandbar hangouts as well, including well‑known coves near the main channel. Wherever you stop, use no‑wake etiquette, avoid glass, and pack out everything you bring so the coves stay pristine for the next crew.