The Best Boat Rentals in Laughlin

Expect most pontoons and tritoons to run about $80–$150 per hour on weekdays and $100–$200 per hour on busy weekends and holidays, with discounted half-day and full-day rates often landing around $500–$900. Deck and sport boats usually range from about $125–$250 per hour depending on size and season. Captained private charters and small tour yachts commonly start near $200–$400 per hour, while multi-day houseboats on Lake Mohave are usually priced in the low thousands for a weekend and higher for a full week. Your booking generally includes the boat, required safety gear, and a basic orientation; fuel, park or marina fees, tax, and a refundable security deposit are usually additional.

The most popular options are spacious pontoons and tritoons for cruising and swim stops, plus deck boats and bowriders for a bit more speed. Anglers book simple fishing boats, and groups looking to settle in for a few days on Lake Mohave often choose houseboats. If you prefer to sit back and relax, there are also narrated cruises and private captained tours along the Colorado River and up toward Davis Dam.

You can do either. Many listings offer a professional captain so your group can focus on the fun while someone local handles docking, navigation, and wind or current. If you want to operate the boat yourself, most owners require you to be an adult with valid ID and boating experience, and some may ask for a boater education card. Captained trips are the easiest option for celebrations and first-timers; self-operated rentals work well for confident boaters who’ve run similar boats before.

Common meet-up points include Katherine Landing Marina on Lake Mohave (about nine miles north of the casinos) and Cottonwood Cove Marina farther up the lake. On the river itself, local departures often use the public Fisherman’s Access launch near the Laughlin Bridge, Big Bend of the Colorado River State Recreation Area’s launch, or Davis Camp’s boat ramp across in Bullhead City. For sightseeing cruises and the water taxi, boarding is typically from the casino docks along the Laughlin Riverwalk, such as at Riverside, Aquarius, Golden Nugget, and Harrah’s.

On the Colorado River through town, you’ll cruise past the casino skyline, the Riverwalk, and the Laughlin Bridge, with views up toward Davis Dam on narrated tours. On Lake Mohave, expect clear blue water, desert mountains, and sandy coves. Popular spots include Princess, Cabinsite, and the Telephone Coves, plus quiet beachy inlets near Katherine Landing where you can anchor for a swim.

Nevada requires a boater education card for operators of motorboats over 15 hp who were born on or after January 1, 1983. Visiting boaters’ NASBLA-approved cards from other states are generally accepted. If you book with a captain, you don’t need a card, and many rentals provide a safety briefing before departure. Always bring government-issued ID, and plan for the operator to remain alcohol-free.

Yes—families are welcome. Boats carry U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets for every passenger, and children under 13 must wear a life jacket whenever the boat is underway. Ask for child and infant sizes in advance, and consider extra sun protection, snacks, and shade, especially in summer. Captains and owners provide a safety orientation covering life jackets, emergency gear, and where to swim safely.

Most charters allow you to bring snacks, picnic items, and beverages, and many boats have coolers or allow you to bring your own. On Lake Mohave and along the Colorado River within the national recreation area, glass and styrofoam are prohibited on beaches and along shorelines, so pack cans or reusable containers. Open alcohol is never allowed for the operator, and local authorities strictly enforce boating under the influence laws. If you plan to grill, confirm your boat’s policy first.

Many rentals are pet-friendly with prior approval and may charge a cleaning or pet fee. On shore, both Lake Mead National Recreation Area and Big Bend State Recreation Area welcome leashed dogs (6-foot leash), but some beaches, docks, or indoor spaces may have restrictions. In hot months, schedule cooler morning departures, bring a water bowl and shade, and keep paws off hot decks.

Desert conditions can shift quickly. Spring and some fall days bring strong northerly winds that create choppy water on Lake Mohave, and summer monsoon storms can pop up in the afternoon. Morning departures are usually calmer. If the captain or marina deems conditions unsafe, trips are typically rescheduled or refunded according to the listing’s policy. Keep an eye on forecasts and be flexible with timing on especially windy days.

Peak boating runs March through May and September through October when temperatures are warm but not extreme. Summer is also popular—especially Memorial Day, July 4, and Labor Day—but plan for intense heat and bigger crowds. July 4 features the Rockets Over The River fireworks, which draw spectators to the water. For smoother water and easier parking, choose weekdays and morning starts; winter offers quiet, sunny days with cooler air and pleasant midday cruising.

Absolutely. Captained pontoons and small tour yachts are ideal for celebrations because your crew can relax while a pro handles the boat, playlists, and swim stops. To make planning seamless, share your headcount, desired vibe (chill cruise or high-energy), pickup point preferences like Katherine Landing or a casino dock for tours, and any add-ons such as coolers or float toys. Many hosts can suggest quieter coves for cake and photos or plan routes past the riverfront skyline.

Yes, it’s a memorable way to see them. Book early with a captain who knows the no-wake zones and safe viewing areas along the Riverwalk. Expect heavier traffic on the water and plan extra time for docking afterward. Bring legal, non-glass containers, charge your phone for night photos, and be sure everyone has a properly fitting life jacket handy after dark.