The Best Boat Rentals in Vancouver

Pricing varies by boat size, season, and whether you hire a captain. As a simple guide, small powerboats typically run about $150–$250 per hour, mid‑size cruisers and motor yachts with a captain are often $300–$600 per hour, and larger luxury yachts can range from $600 to $1,000+ per hour. Half‑day outings commonly fall between $800 and $2,500, while full‑day private charters can land in the $1,800–$4,000+ range. Captained trips frequently include the captain and basic fuel; self‑drive rentals may bill fuel separately and can require a security deposit. Taxes and optional gratuity are extra.

You can choose from comfortable pontoons and runabouts for casual cruising, sporty powerboats for faster sightseeing, classic sailboats for wind‑powered trips, and motor yachts with multiple decks for entertaining. Fishing boats and RIBs are also options for coastal exploring. Most group‑friendly charters emphasize spacious outdoor seating, a sound system, and easy access to views of the skyline and mountains.

For self‑operated powerboats in Canada, proof of competency is required. Locals often use the Pleasure Craft Operator Card. Visitors can still rent by completing a Transport Canada Rental Boat Safety Checklist with the owner at pickup, which serves as proof of competency for the rental period. If you book a captained charter, the professional skipper handles the driving and no license is required for guests.

Common pickup points include Coal Harbour near the downtown waterfront and Stanley Park, Granville Island and False Creek by Yaletown, and the Burrard Civic Marina by Kitsilano and the Burrard Bridge. Many longer coastal trips also stage from the North Shore or West Vancouver, including Horseshoe Bay for routes into Howe Sound. Exact meeting spots are confirmed after booking.

Typical routes showcase the Vancouver skyline, Stanley Park’s forested shoreline, the Lions Gate Bridge, and English Bay’s beaches. In False Creek you’ll cruise past Science World and BC Place, while longer itineraries can reach Lighthouse Park, Bowen Island, or the fjord‑like waters of Indian Arm with its waterfalls. It’s common to spot harbor seals and bald eagles, and on some days porpoises or even whales farther out in Howe Sound or the Strait of Georgia.

If you’re hosting a celebration, want stress‑free navigation and docking, or prefer a curated route, a captained charter is the easiest choice and usually includes local knowledge, itinerary suggestions, and safety oversight. Confident boaters who want maximum flexibility and lower hourly rates may prefer a self‑drive rental; plan on a brief safety orientation, completing the required checklist, and returning the boat with fuel as specified by the owner.

Yes, many charters welcome families. Every vessel must carry a properly sized lifejacket or PFD for each person on board, and reputable operators stock kids’ sizes. If you’re bringing an infant, ask in advance about availability of infant‑specific flotation; some parents choose to bring their own. Crews provide a safety briefing before departure and may recommend that children wear lifejackets at all times on deck.

Most private charters allow you to bring snacks, birthday cakes, and sealed beverages, and some offer coolers or light catering by request. Policies for alcohol vary by vessel and must comply with provincial rules, which generally restrict open liquor on moving boats unless specific conditions are met. Your captain will explain what’s permitted for your boat and itinerary; when in doubt, plan for non‑staining drinks and save hard‑pour service for when and where it’s allowed.

Pet policies are set by each owner. Many boats will consider well‑behaved dogs, often with approval in advance, a leash on board, and a small cleaning fee. If your pup joins, bring a towel, water dish, and consider a canine lifejacket for comfort and safety. For yachts with delicate decking or interiors, pets may not be permitted.

Coastal conditions can shift quickly. Light rain seldom cancels a charter, but high winds, rough seas, or poor visibility may trigger a captain’s weather call. If conditions aren’t safe, most operators will offer a reschedule or a refund according to the listing’s cancellation terms. Keep your phone handy on the morning of departure, and build flexibility into your schedule during shoulder seasons.

Absolutely. Boats are an easy, memorable setting for small to mid‑size groups, with many yachts certified for up to 12 guests and larger passenger vessels available for bigger outings. Captains can tailor routes for photos under the Lions Gate Bridge or sunset in English Bay, and most boats have Bluetooth speakers for playlists. Let your host know about decorations or catering needs in advance so they can approve materials and set up time.

The peak season runs June through early September, when days are long and the water is typically calmest; May and late September are pleasant shoulder months with cooler evenings. The city’s busiest boating weekends align with Victoria Day in late May, Canada Day on July 1, BC Day in early August, and Labour Day in early September, and late July often features the multi‑night Celebration of Light fireworks over English Bay. Weekdays usually offer better availability and prices than weekends, and mornings are often smoother on the water, while sunset cruises deliver golden‑hour views.

Yes. Popular half‑day and day‑trip routes include Indian Arm for sheltered fjord scenery and a waterfall turnaround, and Bowen Island or the inlets of Howe Sound for mountain vistas and wildlife. These outings are easy to pair with a lunch stop or a swim in summer. Ask your captain about timings and tide‑friendly schedules so you’re back right on time.