The Best Boat Rentals in Littleton

For local reservoirs like Chatfield and Cherry Creek, expect pontoons to run about $350–$650 for a half day and $550–$1,050 for a full day, depending on size, season, and day of the week. Runabouts and deck boats often fall around $400–$950 per session, while captained wake or surf charters can be higher. Prices usually include required safety gear and basic orientation; fuel, taxes/park entry, damage deposits, and optional captain fees are typically extra. Holiday weekends (Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day) often carry peak pricing, so book early and budget accordingly.

The most common rentals in this area are comfortable pontoon boats for relaxing and social cruising, nimble runabouts or deck boats for quicker lake laps, and dedicated wake/surf boats (often captained) for watersports. Sailboats and scenic lake tour boats operate seasonally at nearby reservoirs. Large “yacht” style vessels are uncommon due to lake size, so plan on spacious pontoons or sporty day boats for most outings.

You can do either. Many listings let qualified adults drive themselves, while others offer or require a professional captain. In Colorado, as of June 1, 2024, motorboats may be operated by adults 18+, and by ages 14–17 only with a Colorado Parks & Wildlife–approved boating safety certificate. Individual operators often set stricter requirements (for example, a 21+ primary renter/driver). If your group wants a stress-free day or plans to enjoy alcoholic beverages, choosing a captained option is the easiest route.

Most trips launch from marinas and ramps at our close-by reservoirs. In Littleton, Chatfield State Park is the primary hub, with the Chatfield Marina plus the North and South Boat Ramps serving as main launch points. To the east, Cherry Creek State Park’s Pelican Bay Marina and its adjacent West Boat Ramp are popular departure spots, with the East Boat Ramp as another option. Some providers also stage from Bear Creek Lake Park’s Bear Creek Reservoir Boat Ramp in Lakewood for slower, no‑wake cruising.

Expect big Front Range views, foothill backdrops, and wide-open skies. On Chatfield Reservoir you’ll cruise past coves, the marina, and bluffs with frequent sightings of white pelicans, herons, ospreys, and the occasional bald eagle. On Cherry Creek Reservoir you can get prairie and wetland vistas and, on clear days, a distant Denver skyline. Sunsets often deliver warm alpenglow on the foothills—prime photo time.

Colorado does not require a general “boating license” for adults, but it does regulate operator age. As of June 1, 2024, anyone under 18 must complete a state‑approved boating safety course to legally operate a motorboat; adults 18+ may operate without the course. Rental companies can set stricter rules—many require the renter/driver to be 21+ with a valid ID and sober at all times—so always check your listing’s requirements when you book.

Yes. Family groups are common on local reservoirs. Every vessel must carry a properly sized U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket for each person on board, and children 12 and under must wear theirs whenever the boat is on the water. Let your host know the number and sizes of children in advance so they can have the right gear ready. Infants and toddlers are welcome on many pontoons, but capacity limits still include the littlest passengers.

Most boats allow coolers with snacks and non‑glass beverages, and pontoons often have plenty of shaded seating and cup holders. Policies on alcohol vary by operator: some rental fleets prohibit alcohol entirely, while many captained charters allow beer and wine in moderation. Colorado enforces Boating Under the Influence laws at a 0.08 BAC limit, so choose a captained trip if anyone plans to drink and always avoid glass containers on the water.

Pet policies are set by each operator. Around Denver‑area reservoirs, many rental marinas do not allow pets on boats to protect upholstery and decks, though service animals may be considered on a case‑by‑case basis. If bringing a dog is important to your group, message the host before booking so you can find a pet‑friendly option or plan for on‑shore care.

Front Range summer weather can bring gusty afternoon winds and quick‑moving thunderstorms, especially from late May through August. Most operators monitor conditions and will pause, reschedule, or issue a credit if lightning, high winds, or unsafe conditions arise at the lake. Decisions are usually made day‑of based on actual conditions on the water rather than forecasts. Capacity closures can also occur on the busiest weekends, so arrive early and consider morning departures for the smoothest experience.

Absolutely. Pontoons are the go‑to for celebrations thanks to their space and shade, with typical capacities of 8–12 guests per boat. For larger groups, reserve multiple boats or consider a captained lake cruise. To keep the day easy, pre‑coordinate ice, drinks, and playlists with your captain or host, and confirm any decoration, footwear, and cleanup policies before you go.

Peak season runs late May through early September, with Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day selling out far in advance. Spring and fall shoulder months can be lovely but more weather‑dependent. Weekdays are typically quieter than weekends, and mornings are calmer, cooler, and offer easier parking and ramp access. At Chatfield, the reservoir is generally closed to boating in winter; at Cherry Creek, boating usually runs March through November, with rentals concentrated in late spring through summer.

Two favorites: sunset cruises on Chatfield with the foothills glowing in the background, and leisurely laps on Cherry Creek to spot pelicans and raptors near wetland areas. On hot summer days, plan a mid‑cruise swim stop in designated swim zones and bring towels and sun protection. If you want a totally hands‑off experience, book a captained cruise so your group can relax, take pictures, and soak in the views.