The Best Boat Rentals Near Prior Lake

Most standard pontoons, bowriders, and wake boats on Prior Lake run about $100–$250 per hour, with full-day charters commonly landing around $400–$800 depending on the boat size, day of week, and whether a captain is included. Typical inclusions are required safety gear and life jackets, a Bimini sunshade, and a Bluetooth sound system; fuel is often billed separately at the end of your trip. Taxes and platform fees may apply, and holiday weekends can price higher, so booking early helps lock in the best rate.

Pontoons are the most popular choice for relaxing cruises and celebrating with groups, while bowriders and deck boats are great for cruising and swimming stops. Wake and surf boats are available if your group wants watersports with a captain, and fishing boats are an option for anglers targeting walleye, bass, and panfish on Upper and Lower Prior. Listings often let you choose between captained charters and drive-it-yourself boats to fit your comfort level.

You can do either. Many trip planners prefer a captained boat so they can focus on guests and logistics. If you plan to operate the boat yourself, make sure you meet Minnesota’s new boater-education rules that took effect July 1, 2025. Adults born after June 30, 2004 now need a Minnesota watercraft operator’s permit to run a motorboat, and renters 18+ who don’t already have a permit can qualify through the state’s short rental course when renting from a Minnesota rental business. Operators under 12 cannot drive high‑horsepower boats, and additional age and horsepower limits apply for youth. When in doubt, pick a captained option or message the owner with your dates and ages to confirm eligibility before you book.

Common meet-up points are the public water accesses on both lakes. On Lower Prior Lake, the Sand Point Public Water Access sits by Sand Point Beach off Crest Avenue NE. On Upper Prior Lake, the Dewitt(e) Avenue Public Water Access is at the south end of the lake. Some captains may also coordinate pick-ups near Lakefront Park/Watzl’s Beach when local conditions and dock space allow. Your booking confirmation will list the exact dock, timing, and parking details.

You’ll glide between two connected basins—Upper Prior and Lower Prior—linked by the scenic channel near the Wagon Bridge (County Highway 21). Expect tree-lined shores and classic Minnesota lake homes, Lakefront Park and Watzl’s Beach, and lively swim coves on summer afternoons. Keep an eye out for loons, herons, and eagles, and if conditions are calm you can cruise both lakes in a single outing.

Minnesota’s updated law requires many operators to hold a watercraft operator’s permit. As of July 1, 2025, anyone born after June 30, 2004 needs a permit to operate a motorboat; the requirement expands to additional birth years in future seasons. If you’re renting from a Minnesota rental business and are 18 or older, you can either be an exempt operator, complete the Minnesota rental course (valid for 180 days), or hold the full permit. Captained trips don’t require renter licensing because the captain operates the boat. Always bring a valid ID and confirm your group’s ages with the owner before booking.

Yes—families are welcome. State law requires a properly fitted life jacket for each person on board, and children under 10 must wear a U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket whenever the boat is underway. Most rentals include adult PFDs; because kids need precise sizing, bring well‑fitting child life jackets if you have them or request sizes in advance. Your boat will also have required gear like a throwable flotation device and fire extinguisher.

Pack your cooler—most owners allow snacks and beverages and recommend cans or reusable bottles instead of glass. Minnesota prohibits operating a motorboat while intoxicated (same 0.08 limit as driving), and holiday weekends bring extra patrols, so it’s smart to designate a sober operator or book a captained trip if alcohol will be part of the plan. Ask the owner about any rules on grilling or red liquids; many boats prohibit grills and messy items to keep upholstery in good shape.

Pet policies vary by listing. Some owners allow well‑behaved dogs with pre‑approval and a cleaning fee, while others do not permit pets. If your group wants to bring a dog, filter for pet‑friendly boats or message the owner before you book. Bring a dog life jacket, a towel, and waste bags, and plan shore breaks at public beaches or docks that allow pets outside designated swim areas.

Summer in Minnesota can bring pop‑up storms and windy afternoons. Each listing sets its own cancellation policy, and weather decisions are typically made by the owner or captain based on safety. If conditions are unsafe (for example, lightning or severe wind), most owners will reschedule or refund per their policy; if it’s simply overcast or a brief shower, trips often proceed. Review the cancellation terms during booking and message the owner if your plans are sensitive to weather.

Absolutely. Pontoons comfortably host 8–12 guests for celebrations, and captained wake or surf boats are perfect for active groups. Share your occasion and headcount in your booking inquiry so the owner can suggest the right boat, meeting dock, and a relaxed route that fits your vibe—whether that’s a mellow cruise past Lakefront Park or anchoring to swim at a calm cove. Bring decorations that tie down easily, and avoid confetti or anything that could blow into the lake.

Peak boating season runs Memorial Day through Labor Day, with the warmest, busiest months being late June through August. Major holidays—Memorial Day, July 4, and Labor Day—sell out early and see the heaviest traffic on the water. Prior Lake’s signature Lakefront Music Fest typically takes place in mid‑July at Lakefront Park, which also adds crowds on and off the water. For smoother cruising, consider weekday outings, earlier morning departures for glassy water, or sunset cruises for cooler temps and golden‑hour views.

At Sand Point Beach, the adjacent city lot near the beach is for vehicles only; vehicles with trailers should use the DNR lot by the boat access. Both public accesses can fill quickly on sunny weekends, so arrive early and carpool when possible. Your owner or captain will provide precise meet‑up instructions, but having your group arrive 15–20 minutes ahead keeps the handoff and safety briefing stress‑free.

Yes—many boaters watch the Independence Day fireworks launched near Lakefront Park and enjoy the annual daytime boat parade on the 4th. Expect very heavy boat traffic, no‑wake areas, and extra law‑enforcement presence. Plan for early arrival, full navigation lights after dark, and a sober operator, and confirm any special event pick‑up instructions with your owner well in advance since docks and parking are busier than a typical weekend.