The Best Boat Rentals Near Lake George

For self-operated rentals, expect about $400–$700 for a half day and roughly $650–$1,100 for a full day, depending on size and horsepower. Captained private boat tours typically run about $200–$350 per hour with common 2–4 hour outings landing between $400 and $1,050. Rentals generally include required safety gear and a basic lake map; fuel and taxes are often extra for self-drive boats. Captained tours usually include the captain, safety gear, and often fuel, with optional add-ons like tubing or watersports equipment available on many trips.

You’ll find comfortable pontoon and tritoon boats for groups, sporty bowriders and deck boats for cruising and swimming, wake and ski boats for watersports, and center consoles or small cruisers for longer rides. Captained sightseeing boats are popular for stress-free tours, and while sailboats are less common here, they do appear seasonally.

Pick a captained trip if you want maximum ease for your group—your captain handles navigation, anchoring, and local highlights, which is ideal for celebrations or first-time visitors. If you’re experienced and want more flexibility, a self-operated rental is great, but you’ll be responsible for safe operation, docking, and watching the weather. As of 2025, New York requires a boating safety certificate for anyone operating a motorboat; on captained trips, the captain is the operator.

Common departure points include the state boat launch by Million Dollar Beach in Lake George Village, public docks in Bolton Landing at Rogers Memorial Park, the Hague Town Beach launch to the north, and the large DEC launch at Mossy Point near Ticonderoga. Many private marinas along the south and middle basins also serve as meeting spots; your booking confirmation will specify the exact pickup.

A typical route showcases the Adirondack peaks framing the lake, the island-studded stretch known as The Narrows, and scenic coves like Paradise and Shelving Rock bays. You’ll likely pass Dome Island, a protected nature preserve best admired from the boat, and you can glimpse Fort William Henry and the Lake George Village waterfront at the south end. Wildlife sightings often include loons and the occasional bald eagle, and summer evenings sometimes line up with the village fireworks.

Yes, for self-operated motorboats. Under New York’s Brianna’s Law, all motorboat operators must hold a boating safety certificate as of 2025. Out-of-state visitors can use any NASBLA‑approved course certificate. If you book a captained charter, you don’t need a certificate because the captain operates the vessel.

Kids are welcome on most rentals and tours. Coast Guard–approved life jackets are provided for every passenger, and New York law requires children under 12 to wear a life jacket on boats under 65 feet when underway. Tell your host the ages and weights of children so the proper sizes are ready; if you need infant or toddler sizes, request them when you book.

Bringing your own snacks, picnic lunches, and non-alcoholic drinks is common, and many operators allow responsible BYO alcohol for adult passengers. Glass is discouraged on boats and beaches, and the operator must remain sober at all times. If you plan to stop at day‑use islands or public picnic areas, pack out all trash and follow local carry‑in/carry‑out rules.

Many captains and marinas welcome well-behaved dogs, especially on pontoon boats; always ask in advance as a pet fee or cleaning policy may apply. Bring a towel, a non-slip mat, and water for your pup. If you plan shore stops, note that dogs are not permitted on the Lake George state island docks, islands, or on vessels tied to those island docks, so choose mainland parks or private docks for leg-stretches.

Summer weather in the Adirondacks can change quickly. Light rain or passing clouds usually won’t cancel a trip, but captains will delay, reroute, or reschedule if thunderstorms, high winds, or rough conditions arise. If you’re renting to drive yourself, consider booking morning departures for calmer water and have a backup time in case the lake kicks up.

Absolutely. Captained private tours are the easiest option for celebrations, with flexible itineraries for swimming coves, island views, and sunset photo stops. Boats have strict maximum passenger counts for safety—often between 6 and 12 depending on the vessel—so confirm your headcount before you book. For popular weekends, reserve early and share any special requests like decorations or a swim‑stop plan in your message to the host.

Peak boating runs from late May through mid‑October, with July and August as the busiest months. Major boating holidays—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—sell out quickly and the lake is lively. 2025 highlights that can affect demand include Americade (May 27–31), the Adirondack Wine & Food Festival (June 28–29), Thursday‑night fireworks in July and August, and Jazz at the Lake (September 12–14). For smoother water and easier parking, choose weekdays and morning departures; late afternoons and sunsets are beautiful but book up fast.

Yes. Many itineraries cruise through The Narrows to see the forested islands up close and anchor in protected coves for a swim. Day‑use island sites are reservable and popular; if you plan to tie up at an island dock, review rules in advance and remember pets aren’t allowed there. For Shelving Rock Falls, boats commonly anchor in Log Bay and guests follow the short woodland path to the cascade; water can be shallow and rocky, so go slow or choose a captained tour if you’re unsure about navigating.