The Best Boat Rentals in Holland

Most trip planners can expect easy, predictable pricing. Pontoons for cruising Lake Macatawa typically run about $100–$150 per hour or $400–$800 for a full day, depending on size and season. Captained sightseeing cruises on Lake Michigan or the channel are commonly $150–$300 per hour for small groups. Great Lakes fishing charters are usually priced per trip rather than per hour, often $700–$1,100 for 4–8 hours for up to six guests. Sailboat outings can be as low as $75–$150 per hour. Your rate generally includes required safety gear and docking/launch fees; fuel and gratuity may be extra, and captained trips include the captain in the price.

You’ll find comfortable pontoons for relaxed cruising on Lake Macatawa, nimble bowriders and deck boats for tubing and day trips, classic sailboats for sunset sails, larger cruisers and small yachts for celebrations, and fully equipped charter boats for salmon and trout fishing on Lake Michigan. Pick the boat that matches your group size, desired speed, and whether you want a captain.

In Michigan, anyone born on or after July 1, 1996 must have a Michigan boating safety certificate to operate a motorboat. If you don’t have it—or simply prefer to relax—book a captained charter and your licensed captain will handle the navigation. Many owners also set minimum age requirements for operators, so check your listing before you book.

Common pickup points include the Kollen Park Boat Launch on the south shore of Lake Macatawa and the Dunton Park Boat Launch on the north shore. Many captained trips also meet at marinas such as Yacht Basin Marina along Ottawa Beach Road, Eldean Shipyard on South Shore Drive, and Ottawa Beach Marina near the Holland Channel. Note that Holland State Park itself does not have a ramp; the Lake Macatawa boating access site is about a mile east on Ottawa Beach Road.

Highlights include cruising past the Big Red lighthouse at the mouth of the Holland Channel, views of the dunes and beach at Holland State Park, the Mt. Pisgah dune rising above the harbor, and the shoreline homes and marinas around Lake Macatawa. On calm days, captained trips may follow the Lake Michigan coastline for wide‑open water views or continue toward nearby harbors like Saugatuck or Grand Haven.

For carefree celebrating or first‑time visitors, a captained charter is the easiest option—your captain manages routes, docking, and Lake Michigan conditions while you focus on the day. Confident boaters who want a budget‑friendly cruise around protected Lake Macatawa often choose self‑drive pontoons or bowriders. When the big lake is choppy, many operators will keep trips inside Lake Macatawa for comfort and safety.

Yes—most boats welcome families. Every rental includes U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets for the stated capacity. Michigan law requires children under 6 to wear a life jacket on the open deck while underway, so let the owner know ages and sizes in advance to ensure the right fit. If you have an infant or toddler, ask about availability of infant‑sized vests or plan to bring your own.

Most listings allow you to bring snacks, picnic foods, and drinks, and many boats have coolers on board. Cans and reusable bottles are preferred; glass is often discouraged. If you’re operating the boat yourself, choose a sober driver for the duration of the trip. Captains can often recommend easy dock‑and‑dine options around Lake Macatawa if you’d like to stop for a meal.

Pets are welcome on a case‑by‑case basis. Many owners allow well‑behaved dogs on deck—just confirm in advance, bring a small towel or mat to protect seats, and pack water and a leash. Shoreside, Holland State Park has designated pet‑friendly areas on the Lake Macatawa side; always follow posted rules when coming and going from the dock.

Lake Michigan conditions can change quickly, especially in the afternoon. If it’s too rough to be safe, captains typically reschedule or modify the route to stay on Lake Macatawa. Getmyboat bookings follow each owner’s cancellation policy; many offer flexibility for unsafe weather, and the platform’s default policy provides a full refund when you cancel far enough in advance. Message your owner if the forecast looks iffy—they’ll help you choose the best plan.

Absolutely. Pontoons and small cruisers are perfect for casual celebrations with music, snacks, and swim stops, while captained yachts make it feel special and stress‑free. Share your headcount and timing when you inquire so your host can set up coolers, float mats, and a route that fits your vibe—sunset cruises past Big Red are especially popular for photos.

Peak boating runs from late May through early September, with the warmest water and the busiest weekends in July and August. Spring’s Tulip Time Festival (May 2–11, 2025) brings bigger crowds, and major boating holidays—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—book up early. Holland’s July 4th fireworks launch over Lake Macatawa from Kollen Park, and the nearby Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival (late July to early August) can add demand on the lakefront. For smoother water and easier parking, choose weekdays or morning departures; afternoons can be breezier on Lake Michigan, while evenings are prime for sunsets.

Most hosts offer morning, midday, and sunset slots. Mornings usually bring calmer water and lighter boat traffic—ideal for families and swimming on Lake Macatawa—while late‑day trips trade a bit more breeze for golden‑hour views at the channel and on Lake Michigan. If you’re planning an open‑lake cruise, aim earlier in the day or let your captain decide based on the marine forecast.

On calm days with a capable vessel (ideally captained), cruising the Lake Michigan shoreline is a memorable add‑on. Saugatuck’s harbor is roughly 10 miles south by water and Grand Haven is a short run north, each with protected channels and dockage options. Your captain will time the trip around wind and waves; if the lake is bumpy, you can always enjoy an easy loop around Lake Macatawa instead.