The Best Boat Rentals in The Colony

On Lewisville Lake by The Colony, most standard pontoons and tritoons run about $100–$150 per hour, wake and surf boats are usually $150–$250 per hour, and double-decker “party barge” style pontoons commonly range from about $180–$325 per hour. Half-day totals often fall around $450–$700, with full-day lake outings in the $850–$1,300 range depending on boat size, season, and extras. Prices on this lake commonly include fuel for normal cruising, USCG-approved life jackets, a bimini shade, Bluetooth sound, and often a floating mat or lily pad. Taxes, platform fees, and any park entry or parking fees at the launch site are separate. Captained trips typically bundle the captain’s fee into the hourly rate; for self-operated rentals, a refundable damage deposit is common.

You’ll find a wide mix suited to lake days: comfortable pontoons and tritoons for cove-hopping and lounging, wake and surf boats for towing and watersports, jet boats and deck boats for cruising with easy boarding, and larger double-decker party barges with slides for group celebrations. A small number of cabin-style cruisers may be available seasonally. Pick the hull that fits your day—relaxed floating, watersports, or a social Party Cove scene.

If you want a set-it-and-enjoy day—especially for birthdays, bachelor/ette outings, or sunset cruises—a captained trip removes the stress of docking, anchoring, and navigation. If you prefer to take the helm, self-operated rentals are available, but you’ll need to meet Texas boater education requirements, be comfortable with lake traffic, and handle the boat and safety gear. For Party Cove days, windier afternoons, or tight schedules, most planners find a captain is worth it.

Common launch points include Hidden Cove Park & Marina on the north side of The Colony and the Stewart Creek Park boat ramp in The Colony. Many charters also meet at Pier 121 Marina on the south side of the lake and Cottonwood Creek Marina in Little Elm. These parks and marinas can charge gate or parking fees and get busy on summer weekends and holidays, so plan to arrive 20–30 minutes early.

You’ll cruise broad open water with protected coves, pass forested shorelines and the lakeside neighborhoods of The Colony, and spot the fairways of The Tribute golf courses and the Colony Shoreline Trail hugging the water. Many groups idle in popular gathering areas and swim off the stern, and some itineraries include a calm anchorage for sunset views across Lewisville Lake. If you head farther west, you can pass near the well-known Party Cove area by Westlake Park.

In Texas, anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 must have completed an approved boater education course to operate a boat with more than 15 hp or a sailboat over 14 feet. Operators must be at least 13 with boater education or be directly supervised on board by a qualified adult. Equivalent out-of-state boater education is accepted. If you book a captained trip, no license or course is needed for your group—your captain handles the operation.

Yes—families are welcome. Rental boats include USCG-approved life jackets for all guests, and Texas law requires children under 13 to wear a life jacket while a vessel under 26 feet is underway. Tell your host the ages and sizes of any children so they can load the correct vests; infant and toddler sizes are often available with advance notice. If you launch from Stewart Creek Park, ask about their complimentary life jacket loaner program at the gate for extra peace of mind.

Most boats allow you to bring coolers with snacks, water, and beverages. Many hosts prefer cans or plastic rather than glass to keep decks safe, and some restrict staining foods. Passengers may drink alcohol, but the operator must remain sober—Texas enforces Boating While Intoxicated laws similar to driving. If you want to relax with a drink, booking a captained charter is the easiest plan.

Pet policies vary by boat. Small to medium dogs are often allowed with prior approval and a cleaning fee or deposit, while some vessels restrict pets to protect upholstery. If a dog is joining, bring a non-slip mat or towel, a leash for docking, and fresh water. Always confirm pet rules in your booking message before checkout.

North Texas summers are hot, and pop-up thunderstorms and gusty afternoons are common from late spring through early fall. Captains and rental owners monitor radar and lake conditions; if unsafe weather is forecast, they will typically reschedule or issue a weather credit per their policy. Standard cancellation windows vary by boat—often a few days prior for a full or partial refund—so check the listing details and watch for day-of weather updates from your host.

Absolutely. Pontoons and double-decker party barges are ideal for 10–15 guests, and captained trips make celebrating simple—just bring your playlist, snacks, and swim gear. For group comfort, ask about a floating mat, shade, and ice. Plan extra time for park entry on weekends, avoid confetti or items that can blow into the lake, and coordinate a clear meet-up spot and driver for anyone arriving separately.

Peak boating runs roughly May through September, with Memorial Day Weekend, July 4th, and Labor Day among the busiest dates. The Colony’s Liberty by the Lake celebration around July 4th draws crowds and an evening fireworks show that many enjoy from the water, so book early. For smoother water and easier parking, choose weekdays or morning departures; late afternoons are great for sunset swims but can be breezier and busier. Spring and fall shoulder seasons often bring milder temps and easier availability.

Yes. Party Cove sits near Westlake Park toward the center of the lake and is a popular weekend tie-up spot in warm months. Expect crowds, music, and a strict no-wake approach—going with a captain is recommended if your group plans to raft up. For July 4th, many groups watch The Colony’s Liberty by the Lake fireworks from the water; arrive early, bring navigation lights for night returns, and follow captain or host guidance on safe anchorages and post-show traffic.