The Best Boat Rentals in Clear Lake Shores

Most small powerboats on Clear Lake start around $100–$150 per hour, mid-size cruisers and sailboats are commonly $180–$300 per hour, and larger yachts for parties and special occasions usually range from about $300–$700+ per hour. Half-day outings often fall between $400–$900, with full-day private charters running $900–$1,500+ depending on size, crew, and season. Your rate typically includes the boat, required safety gear, and for captained trips a licensed captain; fuel, cleaning, taxes, or gratuity may be extra. Exact inclusions vary by listing, so check the details before you book.

You’ll find a wide mix fit for any plan: comfortable pontoons and deck boats for relaxed cruising, bowriders and wake boats for watersports-friendly days, center consoles for bay and nearshore fishing, classic monohull sailboats and roomy sailing catamarans, and motor yachts ideal for birthdays, proposals, and bachelorette groups. Availability shifts with the season and demand, but there’s usually a good spread from budget-friendly runabouts to luxury yachts.

Captained charters are the easiest option for groups and first‑time visitors—you show up and enjoy while a local pro handles navigation, docking, and safety. Self‑operated rentals are available on some boats if you meet age and boater‑education rules and have relevant experience. If you were born on or after September 1, 1993, Texas requires an approved boater‑education course to operate most motorboats or sailboats over 14 feet; booking a captained trip means you don’t need to worry about that requirement.

Common meeting points include Watergate Yachting Center and Portofino Harbour Marina in Clear Lake Shores, Kemah Boardwalk Marina in Kemah, South Shore Harbour Marina in League City, and Seabrook Marina in Seabrook. Your confirmation will include the exact dock, parking tips, and any gate codes you’ll need.

Typical routes cruise the Clear Lake channel past waterfront homes and parks, the lively Kemah Boardwalk, and out into Galveston Bay for open‑water views and sea breeze. Keep an eye out for resident wildlife—brown pelicans and other shorebirds are common, and bottlenose dolphins are regularly spotted in Galveston Bay. Sunset laps along the Boardwalk lights are a local favorite.

If you plan to operate the boat yourself and were born on or after September 1, 1993, you must have a Texas‑approved boater‑education card for motorboats over 15 hp or sailboats over 14 feet. There’s no license needed for guests on a captained charter, and the captain handles all operating requirements. Bring a valid photo ID either way.

Kids are absolutely welcome on most charters. All boats carry U.S. Coast Guard‑approved life jackets; let the owner know your group’s ages and sizes in advance so they can have the right fit aboard. Texas law requires children under 13 to wear a life jacket while underway on vessels under 26 feet, and captains may ask younger guests to stay seated during docking and in busy channels.

Most hosts allow you to bring your own snacks, sealed beverages, and a small cooler; many provide a cooler and Bluetooth speaker. For everyone’s safety, use cans or reusable cups instead of glass, and keep sticky or staining drinks to a minimum. Alcohol is usually fine for adult passengers, but the person operating the vessel must stay sober under Texas law—another reason many planners choose a captained trip. If you prefer to dine ashore, captains can often dock at Kemah Boardwalk or other waterfront spots during your charter.

Many captains welcome well‑behaved dogs with advance notice, though size limits and a cleaning fee can apply. Bring a canine life jacket, a leash, water bowl, and a towel, and keep paws cool on hot decks. Always confirm pet policies in the listing before you book.

Summer brings heat and occasional pop‑up thunderstorms; mornings are typically calmer, with afternoon sea‑breezes adding a light chop on the bay. The Atlantic hurricane season runs June through November, and operators monitor forecasts closely. If the captain deems conditions unsafe, trips are usually rescheduled or refunded per the owner’s cancellation policy; if conditions are safe, normal policy applies. Review the listing’s cancellation terms when you inquire, and watch the forecast the week of your trip.

Yes—this area is built for celebrations. Many boats are set up with shaded seating, sound systems, coolers, and easy swim access, and captains know scenic loops for photos at the Kemah Boardwalk or on Galveston Bay. Share your headcount, preferred vibe (relaxed cruise vs. party playlist), and any décor or cake plans, and your captain can suggest timing and routes that fit.

Boating is nearly year‑round, but the prime season runs spring through fall, with the busiest window from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Weekdays are calmer and often more flexible on pricing and pickup times; weekends book up fast. Mornings and sunset slots are cooler and smoother than mid‑afternoons in summer. Notable local events include Yachty Gras (the Mardi Gras boat parade) in February and the Christmas Boat Lane Parade in December, plus July 4th fireworks—great fun, but plan early as docks and captains fill quickly.

A popular half‑day idea is a leisurely cruise from Clear Lake to anchor off Redfish Island in Galveston Bay for swimming and relaxing on a floating mat. Another favorite is a dolphin‑spotting loop along the bay followed by a sunset pass in front of Kemah Boardwalk. Your captain will tailor the route to the day’s wind, tide, and your group’s pace.