The Best Boat Rentals in Oxnard

Expect small harbor cruisers and electric boats to start around $60–$150 per hour, classic sailboats in the $175–$400 per hour range, sportfishing and coastal powerboats around $300–$600 per hour, and larger yachts from about $300 up to $1,000+ per hour depending on size, crew, and itinerary. Half-day private charters commonly run $900–$1,500, while full-day island or coastal trips can be $1,600–$3,000+. Rates usually include the boat, standard safety gear, and a licensed captain when noted; fuel for easy harbor cruises is often included, while offshore fuel, port taxes, cleaning, and gratuity can be additional. Always review the specific listing to see what’s included and any add-ons like ice, coolers, or snorkeling gear.

In and around Channel Islands Harbor you’ll find a wide mix: easygoing electric boats for harbor cruising, comfortable sailboats for coastal or island day sails, sportfishing boats and center consoles for offshore runs, and mid-size to larger motor yachts suited for celebrations. Some listings also offer catamarans for extra deck space and stability. Choose a harbor-only boat for a calm cruise with your group, or a seaworthy sailboat or yacht for open-ocean adventures toward the Channel Islands.

If you want a hands-off day with local expertise, a captained charter is the easiest route—ideal for celebrations, sightseeing, and trips offshore toward Anacapa or Santa Cruz Island. Self-operated options are popular for relaxed harbor cruising, especially on electric boats within Channel Islands Harbor. If you plan to leave the harbor or have a larger group, a captained trip is recommended for comfort, safety, and stress-free navigation.

Common meeting points include Marine Emporium Landing at 3600 Harbor Blvd for dining, docking, and tour check‑ins; the Channel Islands Harbor Public Boat Launch at 3001 Victoria Ave for trailer launches and pickups; Peninsula Park and its guest docks at 3333 Peninsula Rd; and the public docks near the Channel Islands Maritime Museum around 3900 Bluefin Circle. Your captain will confirm the exact pickup spot and parking guidance in your booking messages.

Inside the harbor you’ll cruise past marinas, waterfront homes in Seabridge and Mandalay Bay, and frequent sea lion and seabird sightings. Just outside the breakwater, clear days reveal Anacapa Island with its iconic Arch Rock and lighthouse, and dolphins are common in the Santa Barbara Channel year‑round. From mid‑ to late‑December through mid‑March, gray whales migrate along the coast; blue and humpback whales are more typical in summer, and you may spot pelicans, cormorants, and other seabirds any time of year.

California requires a California Boater Card for operating motorized vessels as of January 1, 2025, but there are exemptions that cover many short‑term visitors and renters. If you are operating a rental vessel or you’re on a captained charter, you typically do not need to present a card. If you plan to operate a self‑drive motorboat outside those exemptions, check your eligibility and bring your California Boater Card. Captained trips require no license from guests.

Yes—families are welcome on most listings. Boats carry U.S. Coast Guard‑approved life jackets and other standard safety equipment, and children under 13 must wear a life jacket while underway. Tell the owner your group’s ages and approximate weights so child‑size vests are ready. For young children or anyone prone to motion sickness, choose a larger, more stable boat and consider a morning departure when conditions are typically calmer.

Most private charters and harbor cruises are BYO. Pack easy, picnic‑style food, use cans or reusable bottles instead of glass, and bring non‑staining beverages. Many boats have a cooler or small fridge; otherwise a soft cooler works well. Some captains can arrange catering with notice. Please confirm alcohol policies in your booking—passengers can usually enjoy drinks, but the person operating the vessel must remain sober.

Pet‑friendly options exist, particularly for mellow harbor cruises, but many offshore charters do not allow pets due to deck safety and wildlife considerations. If your listing welcomes dogs, bring a non‑slip mat, waste bags, and a properly fitted pet life jacket. Always get written approval for pets before you arrive.

Morning departures are often smoothest, with typical onshore breezes picking up in the afternoon. Late spring and early summer can bring a marine layer that usually burns off by midday, while winter fronts or occasional strong wind days can impact sea conditions. Captains monitor forecasts and will adjust routes—staying inside the harbor, shifting departure times, or rescheduling—if offshore conditions aren’t comfortable. If a captain cancels for weather, you can usually reschedule or receive a refund per the listing’s policy.

Absolutely. Harbor cruises are perfect for small celebrations, and many yachts can host up to six guests for private trips, with larger inspected vessels available for bigger parties. Let your captain know about decorations, playlists, and cake or catering plans; skip confetti and anything that could blow overboard. For sunset and weekend events, book a few weeks in advance—summer Saturdays and holiday weekends go first.

Peak boating season runs roughly May through September, with warm, sunny afternoons and lively harbor vibes. Winter offers quieter docks and gray whale watching from mid‑December to mid‑March, while summer is prime for blue and humpback whales. Major boating holidays—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—sell out early. Oxnard’s Channel Islands Harbor hosts July 4th Fireworks by the Sea and an Electric Boat Parade, free Concerts by the Sea on summer Saturdays, and the festive Parade of Lights in mid‑December. For the smoothest ride and easier parking, choose weekday mornings; for energy and atmosphere, aim for weekend afternoons and sunset.

A favorite is an Anacapa Island shoreline cruise to see Arch Rock, seabird rookeries, and the lighthouse—about an hour’s crossing on a powerboat in typical conditions. Longer days can include Santa Cruz Island’s dramatic cliffs and coves. Even if you stay local, a slow loop of Channel Islands Harbor delivers sea lion haul‑outs, photogenic marinas, and wide‑open beach views at the harbor mouth. Ask your captain to match the route to your group’s time, comfort level, and interests.