The Best Boat Rentals in Idaho

For most lake days in Idaho, plan on about $450–$600 for a half‑day pontoon and $700–$850 for a full day. Sport and wake boats commonly run $500–$700 for a half day and $800–$1,200 for a full day. Captained wake‑surf or cruise charters are often priced hourly, typically around $175–$250 per hour depending on group size and boat type. Prices usually include U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets, required safety gear, and a bimini shade; many boats also include a cooler and a towable tube. Fuel, sales tax, and optional add‑ons like tubes or pet cleaning typically cost extra.

Across Idaho’s major lakes you’ll find roomy pontoons and tritoons for relaxing and swimming, performance wake and ski boats for tubing and surfing, bowriders/runabouts for cruising, fishing boats for early‑morning bites, and on some lakes a few small sailboats or cabin cruisers. Pick the style that fits your group, activity, and comfort behind the wheel.

Both options are available. Many Idaho rentals are self‑operated for experienced drivers, and you can also book captained outings—especially for wakesurf instruction, larger groups, or special occasions—so you can focus on hosting while a licensed captain handles the boat and route.

Common meeting spots include the 3rd Street Boat Launch and the Boardwalk/Resort Marina area on Lake Coeur d’Alene in downtown Coeur d’Alene, Spring Shores Marina at Lucky Peak State Park near Boise, Sandpoint’s City Beach and Windbag Marinas on Lake Pend Oreille, and the McCall City Boat Ramp or Ponderosa State Park ramp on Payette Lake. In North Idaho, Farragut State Park’s Eagle Boat Launch also serves the south end of Lake Pend Oreille. Your exact pickup point will be confirmed with your host after booking.

Expect forested mountains, long stretches of clear shoreline, and frequent wildlife sightings like ospreys and the occasional bald eagle. On Lake Coeur d’Alene you’ll cruise past Tubbs Hill and the famous floating boardwalk; on Lake Pend Oreille you’ll see the Long Bridge near Sandpoint and dramatic Green Monarch cliffs farther southeast; on Payette Lake, views of McCall and Brundage Mountain frame glassy coves perfect for swimming.

Idaho does not have a mandatory statewide boater‑education card for operating a typical rental boat. However, if you rent a jet ski (PWC), Idaho law requires the rental livery to provide a short safety briefing and wallet card that the operator must carry while riding. Some counties—especially in North Idaho—have local age restrictions for operators, so if a teen plans to drive, ask your host about local rules. If you are bringing your own out‑of‑state boat, plan to purchase an Idaho Invasive Species Sticker and stop at watercraft inspection stations in season before launching.

Yes. Most hosts welcome families and supply properly sized life jackets. By Idaho law, children 14 and under must wear a life jacket when a boat 19 feet or under is underway, and everyone must wear a life jacket on PWCs or when being towed. Let your host know the ages and sizes in your group so they can have the right gear ready.

In most cases, yes—coolers, picnic spreads, and non‑glass containers are welcome, and many boats include a cooler space. Idaho allows open containers for passengers, but the operator must be sober; boating under the influence carries the same 0.08% BAC limit as driving. If you prefer, book a captained charter so the pro handles the helm while you host.

Many boats are pet‑friendly with advance notice, and some charge a modest cleaning or damage‑waiver fee. Bring a towel, a leash for marinas, and fresh water for your pup. Ask your host about upholstery rules and whether a canine life jacket is available or if you should bring your own.

Mountain weather can change quickly, with afternoon winds and the occasional pop‑up storm in summer. If the captain or owner deems conditions unsafe, trips are typically rescheduled or refunded per the listing’s policy. In late summer, wildfire smoke can reduce views but usually doesn’t stop boating; your host will advise on any visibility or air‑quality concerns. Review the cancellation terms on your listing and message the owner if the forecast looks iffy.

Absolutely. Pontoons and double‑decker tritoons are ideal for casual celebrations, while captained wake boats and cruisers work well for activity‑focused groups. Share your headcount, desired vibe, and playlist needs with the owner, and they can suggest the best boat and route. For stress‑free hosting, choose a captained charter and let your skipper handle docking and timing.

Peak season runs June through early September, with the warmest water and longest days in July and August. The big boating holidays—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—book up early. In North Idaho, lake levels and marina access on Lake Pend Oreille are typically best from about July 1 to mid‑September. Expect heavier crowds on weekends and afternoons; for smoother water and easier parking, choose weekday mornings or sunset cruises. Summer events like the Festival at Sandpoint (late July–early August) and lakefront fireworks on July 4th in Coeur d’Alene and McCall can make for spectacular on‑water viewing if you plan ahead.

Two standouts are winter bald‑eagle viewing on Lake Coeur d’Alene—most active from November through January near Wolf Lodge Bay—and scenic cruises along Lake Pend Oreille’s Green Monarch cliffs, where you might spot mountain goats on the rocks. While prime boating weather is summer, these seasonal outings are unforgettable if your travel dates align.