The Best Boat Rentals Near Windsor

For self-operated pontoons and small powerboats around Windsor, typical prices run about C$100–C$200 per hour, with half-day outings often landing between C$350–C$600 and full days around C$700–C$1,000. Captained cruises and small yachts commonly range from C$200–C$400 per hour depending on size, day of week, and trip length. Public sightseeing cruises on the Detroit River generally cost about C$50–C$130 per person. Life jackets and required safety gear are included; fuel, taxes, service fees, and optional add-ons such as watersports gear, coolers, or a crew gratuity are usually extra. Exact pricing varies by boat, date, and departure time, so it helps to compare a few listings for your preferred day.

You’ll find easygoing pontoons and tritoons for relaxed cruising, nimble bowriders and runabouts for lake hops, compact fishing boats for Lake St. Clair, classic cruiser-style motorboats for skyline tours, and, when you want someone else at the helm, captained mini‑yachts and tour boats for group celebrations and sunset cruises. Sailboats are also available in season for mellow wind-powered outings.

If you want a stress-free day with a set itinerary, a captained trip is the simplest option: the skipper handles navigation, docking, and weather calls while you focus on the celebration. If you’re comfortable on the water and know the local conditions, self-operated rentals can be great value, especially for smaller groups. The Detroit River is an active shipping channel with currents and occasional freighter traffic, so many trip planners opt for a captain for first-time visits or larger groups on a tight schedule.

Popular departure points include Lakeview Park Marina on Riverside Drive East near Peche Island, the LaSalle Boat Ramp at Front Road and Laurier Drive along the Detroit River, and Belle River Marina in Lakeshore for quick access to Lake St. Clair. Some sightseeing cruises also board along the Windsor riverfront near the foot of Ouellette Avenue and Festival Plaza. Your exact meeting point will be confirmed in your booking details.

Expect big-sky views of the Ambassador Bridge, Detroit’s skyline anchored by the Renaissance Center, Caesars Windsor and the landscaped Windsor riverfront, Belle Isle’s parkland, and Peche Island’s canals and shoreline. On some routes you’ll also pass the Gordie Howe International Bridge site and, in season, you may spot Great Lakes freighters moving through the channel—always a crowd-pleaser for photos.

For captained charters, no license is needed. For self-operated motorboats in Ontario, the operator must have proof of competency. Most renters either show a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) or complete a Transport Canada rental boat safety checklist with the owner at check-in, which serves as proof for the duration of the rental. Bring government-issued ID, and remember the operator must remain sober at all times.

Yes—family groups are welcome on most boats. Operators provide approved life jackets for the number of guests on board and typically carry multiple youth sizes; you’re encouraged to bring a well-fitting child PFD if you already have one. Children should wear life jackets while on deck, and inflatable PFDs are not for young kids. Ask the owner about any minimum age rules for specific vessels before you book.

Most private charters and rentals allow you to bring snacks, picnic spreads, and non-glass beverages; many boats have coolers or small galleys, and some captains offer catering. For alcohol, plan conservatively: the operator must be sober, and Ontario rules generally restrict open alcohol underway. On larger vessels with permanent facilities, alcohol is typically enjoyed when docked or anchored at the captain’s discretion. When in doubt, confirm your plan with the owner during booking.

Many hosts welcome well-behaved dogs on a case-by-case basis. Expect simple guidelines: keep pets leashed, bring a towel or blanket to protect seats, and consider a pet life jacket if your pup will be topside. Some boats assess a modest cleaning fee and may decline larger breeds or multiple pets, so always check the listing’s pet policy before you confirm.

Your captain makes the final call for safety. If conditions are unsafe, most operators will offer a reschedule or refund per the listing’s policy. Light rain or overcast skies usually don’t cancel a charter. The Detroit River and Lake St. Clair can pick up wind in the afternoon, so morning departures tend to be calmer; having a flexible start time or a weekday plan increases your chances of smooth water and easy docking.

Absolutely. Captained boats and small yachts make hosting simple with built-in seating, music hookups, and skyline routes perfect for photos. Many providers allow tasteful decorations and can suggest stops for dock-and-dine or quiet anchorages. Share your headcount, date window, and vibe—relaxed cruise, high‑energy sunset, or family-forward—and your captain can tailor the route and timing to your group.

Peak boating runs from late May through September, with the warmest water and longest days in July and August. Big holiday and event weeks—Memorial Day (U.S.), late‑June Ford Fireworks over the Detroit River, Canada Day on July 1, Independence Day on July 4, and Labor Day—book up first and often carry premium pricing. For smoother water and easier parking, choose weekdays or mornings; for golden‑hour photos, target sunset cruises. In summer, reserve two to four weeks ahead for weekends and at least a week out for midweek.

For a classic skyline loop, cruise past the Ambassador Bridge, Belle Isle, and the Renaissance Center before gliding along Windsor’s riverfront parks. Nature lovers can add Peche Island’s canals to spot birds and shoreline scenery, while architecture fans may prefer a west-end route with views of the bridge projects and working river traffic. If you’re in town in late June, timing an evening charter for the Ford Fireworks is an unforgettable experience—just book early and expect special-event procedures on the river.

Yes—Peche Island sits just off Windsor’s east end and is a favorite add-on for private charters and small-group rides. In season, city-run boats also shuttle visitors from Lakeview Park Marina for self-guided walks on the island. It’s a low-stress way to mix light exploring with your cruise, and the calm canals make for peaceful, photo-ready scenery. If you plan to picnic ashore, pack light and confirm timing with your captain so your return fits the rest of your itinerary.