The Best Boat Rentals in British Columbia

For simple planning, expect small self-drive powerboats to run about $100–$200 CAD per hour, mid-size captained cruisers and motor yachts to range roughly $250–$600 CAD per hour, and larger luxury yachts to start around $600 CAD per hour and go up from there. Half-day private charters commonly total $800–$2,500 CAD, while full-day outings often land in the $1,800–$4,000+ CAD range. Captained trips typically include the skipper and standard safety gear, and many include basic fuel; taxes, service fees, gratuities, and optional add-ons like catering or special decorations are extra. Self-operated rentals usually bill fuel separately and may require a security deposit.

You’ll find an easy mix for any group: nimble bowriders and speedboats for quick cruises, roomy pontoon and party boats for relaxed celebrating, rigid-inflatable boats for faster sightseeing, classic sailboats and catamarans for scenic sails, cabin cruisers for comfort-forward day trips, and motor yachts for upscale occasions. Fishing and wildlife-viewing boats are also common around the Strait of Georgia, Indian Arm, and Howe Sound.

If you plan to drive the boat yourself, Canada requires proof of competency to operate any motorized pleasure craft. Most visitors satisfy this either with a Pleasure Craft Operator Card or by completing a Transport Canada Rental Boat Safety Checklist provided by the rental operator for the duration of the booking. Non‑residents may also use an equivalent credential from their home state or country. If you book a captained charter, no licence is needed for your group.

For stress‑free planning, a captained charter is the easiest: the local skipper handles routing, docking, currents, and marine weather so you can focus on your guests. It’s the norm for larger yachts and for special events. Experienced boaters who want flexibility and value often pick self‑drive bowriders or small cruisers for protected waters like False Creek, English Bay, and the inner Burrard Inlet; just be ready to show proof of competency and follow the operator’s briefing and safety checklist.

Downtown departures often meet at Coal Harbour Marina near the seawall and at docks around Granville Island and False Creek, including the Granville Island Maritime Market & Marina and nearby Quayside Marina in Yaletown. Kits Point’s Burrard Civic Marina is another central pickup for harbor cruises. For Howe Sound and the islands, departures frequently use Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver, while many fishing charters leave from historic Steveston Harbour in Richmond.

City cruises typically showcase the skyline, Canada Place’s white sails, and seaplanes in Coal Harbour, plus Stanley Park, the Lions Gate Bridge, and English Bay’s beaches. False Creek runs by Granville Island, BC Place, and Science World’s geodesic dome. Longer trips can head up the fjord-like Indian Arm to waterfalls and granite cliffs, or out toward Howe Sound and island harbors such as Bowen Island’s Snug Cove. It’s common to spot harbor seals, porpoises, bald eagles, and seasonal whale activity out on the Salish Sea.

Yes, most private charters are family‑friendly. Transport Canada requires one approved lifejacket or PFD per person on board, and reputable operators provide properly sized gear; let the host know children’s ages and approximate weights so they can prepare the right sizes. Many captains ask that kids wear lifejackets whenever the boat is underway. If you’re bringing an infant, confirm availability of an appropriate device in advance and plan for extra sun protection, snacks, and layers.

On private charters, BYO snacks and soft drinks are usually welcome, and many boats can arrange catering. Glass and red wine are often discouraged, and some vessels are strictly no‑glass for safety. For alcohol, follow your captain’s rules and provincial law: in British Columbia, open liquor is generally limited to vessels with permanent cooking, toilet, and sleeping facilities, and only when anchored or docked, or to boats that hold an appropriate liquor licence. The operator will advise what’s permitted on your specific charter.

Many owners allow well‑behaved dogs on private charters—just confirm during booking. Bring a leash, a non‑slip blanket or towel to protect decks, water and a bowl, and a canine lifejacket if you have one. Some vessels restrict pets in interior spaces or charge a cleaning fee, and a few do not allow animals at all.

Your captain monitors marine forecasts and will make the safety call. Light rain rarely cancels in Vancouver, but strong winds, rough seas, fog, or thunderstorms may trigger a reschedule or a weather‑safe route change. Most operators offer a weather cancellation or free reschedule if conditions are unsafe; check your listing’s policy. The water often feels cooler than shore, so pack layers, sun protection, and soft‑soled shoes year‑round.

Absolutely. Boats are popular for milestone celebrations, team offsites, photo shoots, and proposals. Many yachts comfortably host 8–12 guests, and there are larger passenger vessels for groups of 20–70+ if you need extra space. Share your headcount, preferred vibe (chill cruise, swim stop, or sightseeing), and any extras like décor, playlists, or catering so the captain can tailor the run of show. Fireworks nights and summer Saturdays sell out first, so book early.

Peak season runs May through September, with the warmest, driest weather and the longest daylight in July and August. Weekdays and morning departures are typically calmer and less crowded; sunset cruises are stunning but in higher demand. Holiday weekends are especially busy: Victoria Day (Monday, May 19, 2025), Canada Day (Tuesday, July 1, 2025), BC Day (Monday, August 4, 2025), and Labour Day (Monday, September 1, 2025). A marquee local event is the Honda Celebration of Light fireworks over English Bay, scheduled for July 19, 23, and 26 in 2025, which brings very heavy marine traffic and premium pricing; reserve well ahead for those dates. In winter, clear breaks can still offer beautiful, quieter harbor outings.

Yes. Indian Arm is a classic 3–4 hour round‑trip from downtown or False Creek, with fjord scenery, waterfalls, and wildlife along the way. Bowen Island is perfect for a relaxed day out; plan roughly 4–6 hours from downtown Vancouver if you’d like time ashore in Snug Cove, or look for departures from Horseshoe Bay for a shorter hop into Howe Sound. Your captain will recommend timing based on your vessel, weather, and current conditions.