The Best Boat Rentals in Renton

On Lake Washington, most Renton-area motorboat rentals run about $100–$250 per hour for pontoons and bowriders, $150–$300 per hour for wake and surf boats, and $250–$600+ per hour for larger cruisers and small yachts. Event-oriented or luxury options can be higher. Expect the boat, required safety gear, and basic instructions to be included. Fuel, captain fees, taxes, and gratuity may be extra, and some listings require a refundable security deposit. For half-day plans, budget roughly $500–$1,200; for a full day, $900–$2,000+ depending on boat size, season, and whether you add a captain.

You’ll find comfortable pontoons for relaxing cruises, bowriders and deck boats for easy sightseeing, wake and surf boats for towing riders, classic sailboats for a breezy afternoon, and cabin cruisers or motor yachts for upscale group outings. Many boats have biminis or enclosed cabins for shade and shoulder-season warmth, Bluetooth sound systems, coolers, and swim ladders. Pick the size that fits your group and how you want to spend your time—cruising, anchoring to swim, or watching a sunset.

If you plan to operate the boat and were born after January 1, 1955, Washington generally requires a Boater Education Card when the motor is 15 horsepower or more. Visitors with an equivalent NASBLA-approved card are usually recognized, and many rental operators can issue a temporary safety checklist card for short-term use. If you book a captained charter, you don’t need a license—your captain handles the driving while you enjoy the day.

The two most common meet-up spots are Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park’s boat launch along the south end of Lake Washington and the docks at Southport by Hyatt Regency Lake Washington (home to lakefront spots like Water’s Table and Dock & Drink). Captains can also coordinate pickups at other public docks around the lake—such as Kirkland’s Marina Park—if it better suits your itinerary. During big weekends, especially Seafair, plan extra time at Coulon due to heavier traffic and occasional launch restrictions.

From Renton you cruise the south end of Lake Washington with views of Mount Rainier on clear days, the Seahawks’ Virginia Mason Athletic Center on the shoreline, and the Boeing 737 plant near the mouth of the Cedar River. Head north and you’ll see Mercer Island, the I‑90 floating bridges, and skyline views of both Bellevue and Seattle. In summer you’ll often spot bald eagles and ospreys hunting along the shoreline. During Seafair, expect hydroplanes on Lake Washington and the Blue Angels overhead near the main show area.

Yes—families are welcome on most rentals. Every legally compliant rental provides U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets sized for your group. In Washington, there must be one properly fitted life jacket per person; children 12 and under must wear one at all times when a boat under 19 feet is underway unless they’re in a fully enclosed cabin. Let your captain or owner know the ages and approximate sizes of kids so they can have the right gear ready when you arrive.

Most boats allow you to bring your own snacks, soft drinks, and alcohol for guests 21+. Glass is often discouraged, and red or heavily dyed beverages can stain upholstery, so consider cans and light-colored drinks. If you’re meeting at Gene Coulon Park, note that open alcohol is not permitted in the park itself—save it for on the boat. If you’d rather pick up food on the water, Southport’s lakeside venues offer tie-up moorage for short visits, and boaters often grab takeout from eateries at Coulon between cruises.

Many owners welcome well-behaved dogs—just confirm the pet policy when you inquire. Bring a towel, leash, and a non-slip mat if your pup is new to boating. Keep in mind that dogs are not allowed inside Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, so if you’re bringing a pet, coordinate pickup at Southport or another dog-friendly dock to make boarding simple.

Summer brings the most settled conditions, but the lake can see breezes and passing showers any time of year. Mornings are usually calmer, with winds tending to pick up in the afternoon. Cancellation policies are set by each boat owner on the platform; many offer full refunds or easy rescheduling if conditions are unsafe, and some listings use a standard policy that allows a full refund when you cancel several days in advance. If the captain deems conditions unsafe, trips are typically rescheduled or refunded—safety comes first.

Choose a captain if you want a stress-free day—your skipper handles docking, navigation, and busy areas like Mercer Island’s channels or popular anchorages. It’s ideal for celebrations or first-time boaters. Confident operators with the required Washington card can book self-operated boats for a DIY adventure. Either way, clarify your route—Andrews Bay near Seward Park is a favorite place to drop anchor for a swim and music at low volume—and confirm pickup timing and fuel arrangements before you go.

Absolutely. Boats on Lake Washington are popular for birthdays, proposals, bachelorettes, client hosting, and sunset cruises. Share your headcount, preferred pickup (Coulon or Southport are easiest from Renton), and any add‑ons like a captain, float mats, or a swim stop. Most owners allow light decorations (avoid confetti or anything that sheds) and Bluetooth music at respectful volumes. If your plan includes anchoring with other boats, discuss raft‑up etiquette and quiet hours with your captain first.

Peak boating season runs June through early September, with pleasant shoulder months in May and late September into October on nice days. Major boating holidays—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—book up early and bring heavier traffic. Seafair weekend in early August is the lake’s biggest event, drawing crowds to the hydroplane races, air show, and log boom. For smoother cruising and easier parking, choose weekdays or morning departures; for golden light and skyline views, summer sunset charters are spectacular.

Meet at Coulon for the quickest launch to Mercer Island’s southern shoreline, the East Channel, and views back to Mount Rainier. From Southport, it’s a straight shot north along the lakeside estates and the Seahawks’ headquarters. With a bit more time, continue toward Seward Park and anchor in Andrews Bay, or cruise farther to Kirkland’s Marina Park for a dockside snack before returning to Renton.

Seafair Weekend typically runs Friday–Sunday in early August with hydroplane racing on Lake Washington and the Blue Angels air show. If you’re boating from Renton, book well in advance, choose a captained trip if you want to be near the action, and expect very busy ramps and docks. Gene Coulon’s launch and parking are especially crowded that weekend, and the city may limit launching later on Sunday to manage returning traffic. Plan an early start, confirm your pickup at Coulon or Southport, and build in extra time for slow zones and event patrol areas.