The Best Boat Rentals Near Newburyport

Most small private powerboats with a captain for river cruising run about $175–$250 per hour with a two- or three-hour minimum, while classic sailboat charters are often $175–$250 per hour. Half-day fishing trips usually range from $600–$900, full-day coastal or offshore trips from about $1,200–$1,800, and larger passenger-style boats that carry bigger groups commonly cost $500–$650 per hour. Rates usually include the captain, standard safety gear, and fuel for local routes on the Merrimack; longer-distance itineraries may add a fuel surcharge. Taxes, marina or pickup fees, and gratuity (commonly 15–20%) are typically extra, and food and beverages are either BYO or available as add-ons depending on the listing.

You’ll find a mix suited to the Merrimack River and nearshore Atlantic, including center consoles and downeast-style cruisers for sightseeing and fishing, family-friendly bowriders for river and harbor cruises, classic sailboats for relaxed afternoons under sail, and larger coastwise-inspected vessels that can host bigger groups for events. Luxury motor yachts are available within the North Shore region if you want more space and amenities.

For the 2025 season, most adult visitors do not need a state boating license to operate a motorboat in Massachusetts, though operators ages 12–15 must hold a state-approved boating safety certificate to drive without adult supervision, and there are age-and-course rules for personal watercraft. Beginning April 1, 2026, Massachusetts will phase in a new requirement for all motorboat operators to carry a boater safety certificate, so if you plan a 2026 trip, consider completing a recognized course in advance. Many Newburyport listings are captained, which removes licensing worries altogether.

Common meeting spots include the Cashman Park Boat Launch on Sally Snyder Way near downtown, the central waterfront docks by Waterfront Park on Merrimac Street, and the cluster of marinas along Merrimac and Water Streets such as Newburyport Boat Basin and Newburyport Harbor Marina. Your confirmation will specify the exact dock, arrival time, and parking guidance.

A typical route takes you along the Newburyport boardwalk and Custom House Maritime Museum façade, then out past Joppa Flats and the Great Marsh toward the Merrimack River mouth with views of Salisbury Beach. Many captains circle Plum Island and the historic Newburyport Harbor Light (Plum Island Light). On calm days you may spot ospreys, egrets, and in cooler months even harbor and gray seals near exposed rocks. Heading upriver reveals tree-lined bends and, farther west, the historic Chain Bridge.

Yes—most captains welcome children and provide properly sized, Coast Guard–approved life jackets. By state rules, kids under 12 must wear a life jacket while underway above deck. Boats carry required safety equipment and give a short safety briefing before departure. Let your captain know the ages and sizes of any children so they can have the right gear ready, and pack layers since ocean breezes can be cool even in summer.

On most private charters you can bring snacks, picnic boards, and canned or boxed beverages; many boats provide coolers and ice or will add them on request. Glass is often discouraged, and hard liquor may be restricted at the captain’s discretion. If you’re planning a celebration, coordinate any cakes, decorations, or catering drop-offs in advance so boarding stays quick and easy.

Pet policies vary by boat, but many captains will welcome a well-behaved dog on private charters. Ask at booking, share your dog’s size, and bring a towel, leash, waste bags, and a canine life vest if you have one. Some vessels with premium upholstery or tight deck layouts may decline pets—checking early avoids day-of surprises.

Captains closely watch marine forecasts, fog, wind, and the Merrimack’s strong tidal currents—especially near the river mouth where conditions can turn rough with opposing wind and tide. If the captain calls a no-go for safety, you’ll typically be offered a free reschedule or a refund per the listing policy. To keep plans flexible, consider a morning or weekday window and build a little buffer around tide times if your route includes the ocean.

For most groups, a captained trip is the easiest path to a low-stress day, especially if you want to venture beyond the river. You’ll benefit from local knowledge of tides, sandbars, and the best photo and wildlife spots while you relax with your crew. Experienced boaters may enjoy driving themselves on calm days upriver, but for ocean routes and first-time visitors, choosing a captain is the most seamless option.

Absolutely. Boats that carry up to six passengers are perfect for intimate celebrations and sunset cruises, while larger inspected vessels on the Merrimack can host bigger groups—often 20 to 45 guests—for milestone birthdays, bachelorette parties, reunions, and team events. Share your headcount, preferred vibe, and any must-haves like a Bluetooth sound system or a restroom, and your captain will shape an itinerary that fits.

Peak boating runs late May through September, with Memorial Day, July 4th week, and Labor Day in highest demand. Newburyport’s Yankee Homecoming, typically the last week of July into early August with Saturday-night fireworks, draws big waterfront crowds and limited dock space, so book early for that week. Weekdays are easier for parking and reservations, mornings are usually calmer, and golden-hour sunset cruises are fantastic on clear days. In July, greenhead flies can be active near the marshes—bring repellent—while September and early October offer crisp air and beautiful light for foliage-fringed river cruises.

If you want the simplest logistics, meet your captain at the central waterfront docks by Waterfront Park for quick walk-up access from downtown, or at Cashman Park Boat Launch where there’s ample trailer and vehicle parking. The marinas along Merrimac and Water Streets are also convenient for loading coolers and décor; your captain will confirm the best pickup spot based on tide, parking, and your route.

Yes—lighthouse loops to Plum Island Light are a local favorite, and many captains offer wildlife-focused trips that look for ospreys in summer and seals around the river mouth in cooler months. For a bigger adventure, ask about a longer day run to the Isles of Shoals or a scenic cruise to nearby harbors like Portsmouth or Gloucester when conditions allow. In midsummer, timing a sunset cruise during Yankee Homecoming week lets you enjoy live music drifting over the water and, on the festival’s finale night, fireworks from the river with a captain who knows the viewing zones and crowd patterns.