The Best Boat Rentals in Toms River

Most private charters on Barnegat Bay run about $125–$250 per hour for pontoons, bowriders, center consoles, and small sailboats, with premium or larger boats starting closer to $200–$350 per hour. Half‑day trips typically land around $600–$1,200, and full‑day outings can range from roughly $900–$2,000 depending on boat size, captain, and season. Rates commonly include the boat, standard safety gear, and a licensed captain when you book a captained charter; fuel, cleaning, or service fees may be added on some listings, so check the inclusions section when you inquire.

You’ll find an easy mix of comfy pontoons for sandbar days, bowriders and center consoles for cruising and swimming, small sailboats for a breezy afternoon on the bay, and compact yachts for celebrations. Most options are set up for groups of about six, with both captained and self‑operated choices available.

Both are available. Many planners choose a captained trip so the local pro handles navigation, anchoring, and tides. If you prefer to operate the boat yourself on Toms River and Barnegat Bay (tidal waters), New Jersey requires a Boating Safety Certificate but not the separate non‑tidal Boat License; qualified visitors can use an equivalent certificate from their home state or a NASBLA‑approved course. Captained charters don’t require you to hold a certificate.

Pickups are commonly arranged at convenient waterfront spots like the public dock at Huddy Park in downtown Toms River, the public boat ramp at 230 Garfield Avenue in the Gilford Park/Money Island area, and along the Island Heights waterfront and pavilion on River Avenue; some listings may also meet at Shelter Cove on Bay Avenue. Always confirm your exact meeting point with your captain after booking. (ecode360.com, shorebeat.com, sailfestnj.com, tomsrivertownship.com)

Expect classic Jersey Shore views: sailboats tacking on the Toms River, osprey nests and salt‑marsh scenery by Cattus Island Park, and the dunes of Island Beach State Park. Many trips cruise by the Seaside Heights boardwalk and its 131‑foot Ferris wheel, and on summer Wednesdays you can often watch Seaside Heights’ evening fireworks from the bay. (njhiking.com, casinopiernj.com, thelocalgirl.com)

For tidal waters like Toms River and Barnegat Bay, operators of powerboats need a New Jersey Boating Safety Certificate. The separate NJ Boat License applies to non‑tidal lakes and reservoirs, not the bay. Out‑of‑state visitors may operate with a valid safety certificate from their home state or other NASBLA‑approved course. If you book a captained charter, the captain’s credentials cover the operation.

Yes—family groups are welcome. By law, children 12 and under must wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket while underway, and your boat will carry required PFDs for everyone. If you’re bringing infants, ask for an infant‑size life jacket in advance; state guidance recommends waiting until a baby is at least ~18 pounds and can wear a proper PFD. From November 1 to May 1, anyone on boats under 26 feet must wear a PFD while underway, which can affect off‑season trips. (nj.gov, nj.gov)

Most captains welcome BYO snacks, picnic spreads, and beverages. Cans and reusable bottles are generally preferred over glass for safety. Some boats include a cooler and ice; many will let you bring your own. If you have a celebration cake or specific setup in mind, just message the owner in your booking inquiry to coordinate details.

Pets are allowed at the owner’s discretion. Many boats can accommodate a well‑behaved dog, especially for calm bay days and sandbar stops, but you’ll need to request approval in advance and keep pets off seats and upholstery as directed by the captain.

Your captain monitors conditions and will recommend rescheduling or canceling if winds, storms, or small‑craft advisories make it unsafe. Summer afternoons often see a healthy sea breeze on Barnegat Bay, while mornings trend calmer—useful if you’re boating with kids or first‑timers. Each listing sets its own cancellation policy, so review it when you book and message the owner if you have timing concerns. (jerseycoastaladventures.com, getmyboat.com)

Absolutely. Most standard charters in the area host up to six guests per boat due to Coast Guard passenger rules for smaller commercial vessels, and some inspected boats can take more. Captains can tailor trips for photo ops, swim stops, and playlists, and can aim for fireworks or sunset timing in peak season. Book early for holiday weekends.

Peak boating runs from late May through September, with Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day being the busiest. The first Saturday after Labor Day brings Sailfest along the Island Heights riverfront—great energy on the water but plan ahead for crowds. Weekdays and morning departures are your easiest, calmest options in high summer; evenings are popular for sunsets and, on July and August Wednesdays, fireworks off Seaside Heights. (tomsriverrotary.com, oceancountytourism.com, thelocalgirl.com)

Popular itineraries cruise the Toms River past Island Heights’ historic homes, loop into Barnegat Bay for a swim at a lee‑shore cove, or anchor at a sandbar for a picnic. Captains also thread through marked channels with slow‑speed and no‑wake zones to keep your ride smooth near docks and bridges, so you can relax and focus on your celebration. (en.wikipedia.org, nj.gov)

Tices Shoal is a beloved shallow anchorage on Barnegat Bay near Island Beach State Park where boats raft up to swim and relax; on calm summer days it’s a classic sandbar hangout and many captains offer Tices trips from Toms River. There’s bay‑to‑ocean foot access at the park across from the anchorage, and it’s typically busiest on weekends. Ask your captain about timing and weather before you commit. (waterwayguide.com, tripadvisor.com)