The Best Boat Rentals in Quincy

Most private charters in the Quincy and Boston Harbor area start around $200–$350 per hour for smaller powerboats and center consoles, $300–$600 per hour for mid-size motor yachts and sailing yachts, and $700–$1,200+ per hour for larger inspected “party” boats that carry bigger groups. Two-hour private sails often run about $550–$600, half-days around $1,000, and full days from roughly $1,500. Captained trips typically include a licensed captain, safety gear, and basic fuel for harbor cruising; taxes, platform fees, gratuity (often 15–20%), and add-ons like catering or special pickup locations are usually extra. Exact inclusions are listed in each Getmyboat offer, so review the line items before you book.

You’ll find a wide mix: sleek motor yachts for celebrations, classic sailboats for scenic harbor cruises, center consoles for harbor tours or nearshore fishing, and larger inspected vessels designed for corporate outings and big groups. Catamarans and cabin cruisers are also available in season. If you know your group size and vibe—sunset cruise, birthday bash, or a relaxed sail—filter by capacity and boat type to see the best fits.

Most group charters here are captained, which keeps planning easy and lets your crew relax. Some listings do offer self-operated rentals for qualified operators; approval is at the owner’s discretion and may involve sharing your boating resume. For 2025, Massachusetts allows adults to operate motorboats without a general state license, but youth have restrictions and all operators must follow state and federal rules. Massachusetts has enacted a new requirement that will make a boater safety certificate mandatory for motorboat operators starting April 1, 2026, with phased deadlines by birth year. If you prefer hands-off logistics now, choose “captain included”; if you want to helm, look for listings that allow self-operation and confirm the requirements in advance.

Common departure points include Safe Harbor Marina Bay on Victory Road in Squantum with great skyline access, Bay Pointe Marina on Washington Court along the Town River, Captain’s Cove Marina on Cove Way near Hingham Bay, and Town River Marina off Southern Artery. Your exact meeting spot will be in your booking confirmation; many skippers can also advise on parking and nearby restaurants for easy pre- or post-cruise plans.

From Quincy you’re minutes from Boston Harbor’s best sights: sweeping views of the Boston skyline, the Boston Harbor Islands including Spectacle and Georges Island with historic Fort Warren, and the storied Boston Light on Little Brewster Island. Depending on your route, you might glide by Hingham Bay and World’s End, pass working ship traffic, and spot seabirds—and in cooler months, the occasional seal—around the outer harbor. Your captain will tailor the loop to time, weather, and what your group wants to see.

For the 2025 season, Massachusetts requires children under 12 to wear life jackets underway and sets specific age rules for operating motorboats and personal watercraft. A new statewide rule will require all motorboat operators to hold a boater safety certificate starting April 1, 2026, with enforcement phased by birth year. If you’re booking a captained trip, the captain handles the operation; if you plan to self-operate, make sure you meet Massachusetts requirements and the boat owner’s experience standards.

Yes—families book here all the time. Every charter carries U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets for the stated passenger count, and Massachusetts law requires children under 12 to wear a life jacket while underway. If you have infants or toddlers, note their ages and approximate weights in your booking so the owner can confirm appropriately sized PFDs. Captains provide a safety briefing at boarding, and many boats have shaded seating and a restroom; check your listing for specifics.

Most boats are BYO-friendly for snacks and drinks, and many allow beer, wine, and seltzers. Hard liquor, red wine, and glass can be restricted, and open flames or grills are not permitted. Some hosts can supply coolers and ice or arrange catering; if you’re celebrating, you can usually bring a cake and simple decorations. Always confirm your plan in the messages so the crew can set up the galley and cleanup expectations.

Several boats welcome well-behaved dogs with advance notice—others may decline due to decking, upholstery, or allergies—so check each listing’s pet policy before you book. Keep pets leashed on docks and bring water, a non-slip mat, and waste bags. If you plan to stop near the Boston Harbor Islands, know that most park islands do not allow pets ashore; in that case, plan a cruise-by or swim stop where permitted and keep pups aboard.

Captains watch the marine forecast closely. Light rain seldom stops a harbor cruise, but high winds, thunderstorms, dense fog, or a small craft advisory can trigger a reschedule or refund per the owner’s cancellation policy. If conditions are safe but not sunny, most trips proceed. To keep your options open, consider a morning start (typically calmer) or build a backup date into your plans during busy summer weekends.

Absolutely. The harbor is built for celebrations, from intimate six-guest sails to inspected vessels that host 10–35+ passengers with crew. When sending your request, include your headcount, occasion, preferred route or sights, any decorations or cake, and whether you need catering or a specific pickup. Boats with generous deck space, shade, a sound system, and a restroom are ideal for parties, and many hosts can suggest playlists and photo-op stops.

Peak boating season runs June through September, with warm afternoons, late sunsets, and the most boat availability. May and October offer cooler shoulder-season days with lighter crowds and crisp views. Major boating holidays—Memorial Day weekend, July 4th period, and Labor Day weekend—sell out early, and Boston’s Harborfest fireworks typically light up the Inner Harbor around the first week of July, drawing heavy demand. For smoother water and easier parking, choose weekdays or morning departures; sunset cruises are gorgeous but book up fastest Friday–Sunday.

Yes—many captains offer island loops and lighthouse cruises right from Quincy. Popular routes circle Spectacle and Georges Island for views of Fort Warren, then head toward outer harbor for photo ops at Boston Light. Swimming is allowed only in designated areas off Spectacle Island during the summer, and most islands limit pets and alcohol ashore. Tell your captain if you prefer a scenic sightseeing loop, a beach stop where permitted, or a longer outer-harbor run to maximize your time on the water.