The Best Boat Rentals in Peoria

On Lake Pleasant near Peoria, most pontoons and tritoons run about $90–$150 per hour, wake and surf boats are commonly $100–$175 per hour, upgraded double‑decker pontoons with slides are often around $120–$180 per hour, and larger party boats or small yachts can be $300–$400+ per hour. Prices usually include required U.S. Coast Guard life jackets and basic safety gear; fuel, captain fees, taxes, and park or marina entry/parking may be additional. Pleasant Harbor, for example, posts per‑vehicle entry fees, and owners set their own inclusions on Getmyboat, so review each listing before you book. (getmyboat.com, pleasantharbor.com)

You’ll find a wide mix suited to different groups and plans, including spacious pontoons and tritoons for relaxing and swimming days, wake and surf boats for towing and watersports, jet boats for quick cruising, and larger party boats or small yachts for celebrations. Availability and exact features vary by listing, so filter by boat type, capacity, and amenities when you search.

Both options are popular. A captained trip is the most hands‑off and stress‑free choice for groups that want to relax, learn local spots, or celebrate without worrying about navigation. If you plan to operate the boat yourself, Arizona does not require a boating license for adults, but operators must follow state laws, keep a properly fitted life jacket available for each passenger, and remain sober; choosing a designated operator is essential. Families with younger teens should note that children under 12 may not operate a motorized vessel over 8 horsepower unless an adult 18+ is on board. (azgfd.com, azleg.gov)

Most trips meet at Lake Pleasant’s two public marinas or the park’s main ramps. On the southeast side, Pleasant Harbor Marina in Peoria is a common meeting point with parking and services. On the west side, Scorpion Bay Marina offers dockside pickup, dining, and supplies. Many owners also coordinate meetups at Lake Pleasant Regional Park’s 10‑Lane Boat Ramp by the Main Entrance or the 4‑Lane Ramp at the North Entrance. Confirm the exact dock or ramp with your owner after booking. (pleasantharbor.com, scorpionbayaz.com, maricopacountyparks.net)

Expect classic Sonoran Desert scenery with saguaro‑studded hills, clear coves, and views of Waddell Dam, with chances to spot wildlife like wild burros alongshore and, seasonally, bald eagles soaring over the Agua Fria arm. The Agua Fria lower arm is typically closed each year December 15 through June 15 to protect nesting eagles; your captain or rental owner will steer clear of closures in that period. Sunsets on the open lake and the narrow coves make for great photos. (blm.gov, azgfd.com, maricopacountyparks.net)

Arizona does not require a boating license for adults to operate a typical motorboat, though boater education is strongly encouraged. By law, children under 12 may not operate a motorized vessel over 8 horsepower unless accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or another adult age 18+. Always review your rental’s rules and any age requirements set by the owner. (azgfd.com, azleg.gov)

Yes. Most listings welcome families, and life jackets are provided. Arizona requires that every passenger have a properly sized, U.S. Coast Guard‑approved life jacket on board, and children 12 and under must wear one while the boat is underway. Boats 16 feet and longer must also carry a throwable flotation device in addition to wearable PFDs. Ask your owner about infant and youth sizes to ensure the right fit for your crew.

Most owners allow you to bring snacks, picnic foods, and canned or boxed beverages; many boats have bimini shade and room for coolers. Glass bottles are prohibited within the county park areas around Lake Pleasant, and grills are generally not allowed on rental boats due to upholstery and fire safety. The operator must remain sober at all times, so plan a designated driver for your group.

Many rentals and both marinas are dog‑friendly, though policies vary by boat and pet fees may apply. Keep dogs leashed on docks and shore areas, pack out waste, and bring fresh water and a canine life jacket if your pup will swim. Check your specific listing’s pet rules before booking.

Summer monsoon season typically runs June 15 through September 30, when afternoon thunderstorms, gusty winds, lightning, and dust storms can develop quickly. Most owners handle weather on a case‑by‑case basis, commonly offering a reschedule or refund if conditions are unsafe. To maximize calm water and avoid pop‑up storms, morning departures are usually best in the summer. (weather.gov, getmyboat.zendesk.com)

Yes. Many boats on Lake Pleasant are set up for celebrations, with comfortable seating, sound systems, swim ladders, and space for coolers. Confirm passenger capacity and any decor or music guidelines with your owner, and plan extra time on major holiday weekends when ramps and waterways are busiest. Popular raft‑up spots like Humbug Cove can be very crowded on peak days, and law enforcement increases holiday patrols to keep everyone safe. (archive.cdc.gov, azgfd.com)

For the most comfortable temperatures, many locals target March through May and September through October. Summer brings warm water and the most availability but also the biggest crowds; weekdays and mornings are smoother and less busy than afternoons and weekends. Expect peak demand on Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day, and note that Pleasant Harbor hosts a large July 3rd fireworks show each year that draws extra traffic on the water and at the gates. (weather.gov, pleasantharbor.com)

Ask your captain or owner about calm coves and scenic runs suited to your group. Locals often anchor at Humbug Cove and Fireman’s Cove for swimming and socializing, or cruise narrow, photogenic channels like Pipeline Canyon when conditions allow. In winter and spring, operators avoid parts of the Agua Fria arm because of seasonal bald eagle protections, which helps keep wildlife thriving and your trip respectful of closures. (archive.cdc.gov, seasthedayaz.com, maricopacountyparks.net)