The Best Boat Rentals Near Kawartha Lakes

For most groups, plan on about CA$80 to CA$150 per hour for a pontoon, or roughly CA$400 to CA$700 for a full day. Sportier bowriders and deck boats usually run around CA$350 to CA$600 per day, while small cruisers or captained sightseeing trips can be CA$250 to CA$400 per hour with minimums. Rentals usually include required safety gear like lifejackets for your group, a safety kit, lines, fenders, and an on‑water orientation. Fuel, taxes, and optional add‑ons (like water toys) are commonly extra, and a refundable damage deposit may apply.

You’ll find easygoing pontoons for relaxed cruising, bowriders and deck boats for lake hopping and swimming stops, fishing boats for early starts on Sturgeon or Pigeon Lake, and small cabin cruisers or houseboats for slow‑cruising the Trent–Severn Waterway. Most trip planners pick pontoons for casual group outings because they’re spacious, stable, and simple to board.

If you want to relax while someone else handles docking, navigation, and the locks, choose a captained trip and focus on your guests. If you prefer to drive, self‑operate rentals are widely available; you’ll get a pre‑departure safety briefing and must carry proof of competency. For first‑timers, captained outings are stress‑free; for experienced boaters familiar with lake boating, self‑drive keeps costs down and schedules flexible.

Common meet‑ups are near the Trent–Severn lockstations and municipal docks, including Bobcaygeon’s Lock 32 and swing bridge area on Pigeon/Sturgeon Lakes, Fenelon Falls at Lock 34 and the Cameron Lake waterfront, Lindsay’s Old Mill Park and Rivera Park on the Scugog River, and Rosedale’s Lock 35 between Balsam and Cameron Lakes. Balsam Lake Provincial Park also has two public boat launches, which can be convenient for day trips.

Expect classic cottage‑country scenery with island‑studded lakes, limestone shorelines, and plenty of wildlife. Highlights include locking through historic stations like Bobcaygeon, the Fenelon Falls gorge spilling from Cameron Lake, the narrow Rosedale channel linking Balsam and Cameron, and, farther northwest, the impressive Kirkfield Lift Lock. Keep an eye out for loons, ospreys, herons, and the occasional bald eagle.

In Canada, anyone operating a motorized boat must carry proof of competency. If you don’t have a Pleasure Craft Operator Card, most renters can complete a simple Transport Canada Rental Boat Safety Checklist with the operator before departure and carry it during the rental. Visitors from outside Canada may use proof of competency from their home country or complete the same checklist. Captained charters don’t require you to show proof, since the captain operates the vessel.

Yes. Families are welcome, and boats carry the required safety equipment, including properly sized lifejackets for children. Let your captain or owner know the ages and approximate sizes of any kids so they can have the right PFDs ready. Young children should wear their lifejackets whenever on deck, and some operators may set minimum ages or weather limits for infants for comfort and safety.

Bringing snacks, picnic items, and non‑alcoholic drinks is generally fine, and coolers are common. Many operators prefer cans over glass. For alcohol, plan to follow Ontario rules: on most day boats without permanent galley, head, and sleeping facilities, open alcohol isn’t permitted underway. If your vessel has those permanent facilities, alcohol may only be consumed when docked or at anchor. Always confirm your provider’s policy before you pack.

Many owners allow well‑behaved dogs with advance notice. Bring a towel, a water bowl, and a mat to protect seats, and expect a cleaning fee if your pup sheds or swims. Keep pets leashed at marinas and lockstations and avoid sensitive natural areas when you go ashore.

Summer weather can shift quickly with pop‑up showers or gusty winds, especially in the afternoon. If conditions are unsafe, most operators will reschedule or refund per their policy. To stack the odds for smooth water, consider morning departures and keep an eye on the forecast the day before. If your plan involves locks, allow extra time for traffic on busy weekends.

Absolutely. Pontoons are perfect for casual celebrations, while small cruisers add a bit of “mini‑yacht” flair. Share your headcount, preferred lake, timing, food plans, and any must‑dos (swim stops, a lock‑through, sunset photos) when you inquire. Many captains can suggest easy pickup points near Bobcaygeon or Fenelon Falls and recommend restaurants for before or after your cruise.

Peak boating runs from mid‑May through early October, with prime season in late June, July, and August. The busiest days are long weekends and holidays like Victoria Day, Canada Day (July 1), the Civic Holiday in August, and Labour Day in September. For calmer water and easier parking, choose weekdays or morning starts; sunset cruises are fantastic for photos. Early fall brings quieter locks and beautiful colour on shorelines.

Yes, it’s a favourite local outing. Big (Boyd/Chiminis) Island is a protected nature property with seasonal docks and signed trails. It’s day‑use only—no fires, camping, or alcohol on the island—and visitors are asked to tread lightly and pack out everything they bring. It makes a great picnic and swim stop on a warm day when conditions are calm.