The Best Boat Rentals Near Orillia

For simple planning, expect small runabouts and fishing boats to start around CA$100–$200 per hour, pontoon boats to average CA$100–$250 per hour, and larger cabin cruisers or small yachts with a captain to run roughly CA$200–$350 per hour. Full-day rates typically land between about CA$600 and CA$1,500 depending on size, season, and whether a captain is included. Most rentals include required safety gear and a pre-departure safety briefing; fuel, captain/crew fees, cleaning, and taxes may be extra and are shown in each listing during checkout. These ranges reflect current Getmyboat offerings around Lake Simcoe and Couchiching.

You’ll find comfortable pontoons for relaxing with a group, easy-to-drive bowriders/runabouts, fishing boats set up for Lake Couchiching and Lake Simcoe, plus cabin cruisers and small yachts for celebrations. Houseboats are also an option for multi‑day trips in the region. Availability varies by date and group size, so browse listings for current options.

In Canada, anyone operating a powered pleasure craft must carry proof of competency. If you don’t have a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), you can complete a Transport Canada Rental Boat Safety Checklist with the owner; the signed checklist serves as your proof for the rental period. Visitors from outside Canada may use acceptable proof from their home country. (tc.canada.ca, laws.justice.gc.ca)

Both options are common. Captained charters are great when you want a stress‑free day, local route suggestions, and an experienced operator at the helm. If you prefer to drive, many boats are available as self‑operated rentals; you’ll complete the required safety briefing and carry your PCOC or the rental safety checklist on board. Look for “Captained” or “Bareboat” in the listing details when you book. (getmyboat.com, tc.canada.ca)

Common meeting points include the Port of Orillia in Centennial Park on the downtown waterfront and the Collins Drive Boat Launch on the city’s south shore. Some hosts also arrange pick‑ups near the Atherley Narrows or up by Washago and Lock 42 on the Trent–Severn Waterway, depending on your route and lake conditions. Always confirm your exact dock after booking. (orillia.ca, orillialakecountry.ca, pc.gc.ca)

Expect scenic shoreline around Couchiching Beach Park and the downtown boardwalk, the Atherley Narrows where Lakes Couchiching and Simcoe meet, and views of the Highway 12 (Jake Gaudaur) bridge and the CN swing bridge. Beneath the Narrows lies the Mnjikaning Fish Weirs National Historic Site—5,000‑year‑old Indigenous fishing structures—an important place you’ll pass as you cruise between the lakes. (waterwayguide.com, cruising.ca, parks.canada.ca)

Yes—families are welcome. By law, there must be a properly sized, Canadian‑approved lifejacket or PFD for every person on board, including children, and rental operators supply required safety equipment as part of the briefing. Ask for child sizes in advance so the crew can have the right fit ready when you arrive.

Most hosts allow you to bring snacks, meals, and non‑alcoholic drinks; coolers are fine, and reusable or plastic drinkware is best. Alcohol laws are strict: operating a boat while impaired is illegal, and open alcohol is only permitted for passengers when the boat has permanent cooking, sleeping, and toilet facilities and is anchored or docked. If in doubt, plan a dry cruise and celebrate back on shore. (tc.canada.ca, myboatcard.com)

Many captains welcome well‑behaved dogs, but it’s always case‑by‑case. Mention your pet in the booking inquiry, bring a leash and a non‑slip mat or towel for deck comfort, and be prepared for a small cleaning fee if required by the owner.

Summer on Lakes Couchiching and Simcoe is generally warm, but winds can pick up quickly and pop‑up thunderstorms are possible, especially in the afternoon. If unsafe weather is forecast, most owners will work with you to reschedule or follow their stated cancellation policy. For the smoothest ride, mornings are often calmer, and weekday trips see lighter boat traffic.

Absolutely. Boats in the area commonly host birthdays, proposals, bachelorettes, family reunions, and corporate groups. When you inquire, include your headcount, ideal pickup area, and whether you want a captain—hosts will suggest routes, swimming coves, and timing to fit your celebration.

Peak boating season runs roughly May through September, with the Trent–Severn Waterway typically operating from mid‑May until after Thanksgiving. Summer highs arrive in July and August, while May–June and September often bring great conditions with fewer crowds. For 2025, busy Canadian holiday and event dates include Victoria Day (May 19), Canada Day (July 1), Civic Holiday (August 4), and Labour Day (September 1). U.S. holiday weekends can also boost regional demand—Memorial Day (May 26, 2025), Independence Day (July 4, 2025), and Labor Day (September 1, 2025). Locally, plan around major waterfront events like Mariposa Folk Festival (July 4–6, 2025), Orillia Waterfront Festival (August 8–10, 2025), the Port of Orillia Pirate Party (August 29–31, 2025), and the spring Orillia Perch Festival (April 25–May 10, 2025). Booking weekdays or morning departures usually means easier parking and smoother water. (waterwayguide.com, en.climate-data.org, canada-holidays.ca, en.wikipedia.org, mariposafolk.com, orillia.com)

Many groups enjoy a relaxed loop along the Orillia waterfront and through the Atherley Narrows, a swim stop on Lake Simcoe when conditions allow, or a northbound cruise toward Washago and Lock 42 for a taste of the Trent–Severn Waterway. Your captain or host will tailor the plan to weather, time, and your group’s vibe.

If Centennial Park is packed during festivals or holiday weekends, hosts may suggest alternate pick‑ups such as the Collins Drive Boat Launch or marinas near the Narrows. Confirm the exact dock and parking details in your booking thread the day before your trip for the easiest meetup. (orillia.ca, orillialakecountry.ca)