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Boat rentals in Washington typically range from $100 to $300 per hour depending on the type of vessel. Yachts and captained charters can run $500 or more per hour, especially near Seattle or the San Juan Islands.
Yes, many boat rentals in Washington offer captained options, especially for larger vessels, sightseeing tours, and special events. It's a great way to enjoy the water without having to navigate yourself.
If you’re operating a boat with 15 or more horsepower and were born after January 1, 1955, Washington requires a Boater Education Card. No license is needed if you hire a boat with a captain.
Popular spots include Lake Union and Lake Washington in Seattle, the San Juan Islands, Puget Sound, Lake Chelan, and the Columbia River near the Tri-Cities and Vancouver.
Well-known marinas include Shilshole Bay Marina (Seattle), Cap Sante Marina (Anacortes), Elliot Bay Marina, and Friday Harbor Marina in the San Juan Islands.
You’ll find pontoons, speedboats, sailboats, fishing boats, kayaks, yachts, and even houseboats available to rent across the state’s lakes, rivers, and coastal areas.
From Seattle, enjoy skyline views and explore Lake Union’s floating homes. In the San Juans, spot whales, seals, and bald eagles. Puget Sound offers views of Mount Rainier and the Olympic Mountains.
Yes, anglers head to Lake Washington, Lake Roosevelt, and the Columbia River for bass, trout, and salmon. The Puget Sound and San Juans are known for halibut, lingcod, and crab.
Boating in Washington is great for whale watching, sightseeing, island hopping, wakeboarding, fishing, and sunset cruises. Houseboat stays and overnight sailing trips are also popular.
Late spring through early fall (May to September) offers the best weather for boating, especially in the Puget Sound and San Juan Islands. Summers bring longer days and calmer waters.