The Best Boat Rentals in Granbury

On Lake Granbury, most casual pontoons run about $100–$150 per hour or roughly $500–$700 for a full day, while wake and surf boats with a captain typically range from $175–$225 per hour. Fishing or deck/bowrider style boats often start around $85–$125 per hour, and jet skis are commonly $150–$200 per hour. Your rental will include required safety gear and a quick orientation. Fuel, taxes, and add‑ons like tubes or floating mats may be extra, and captained trips often bundle the captain’s fee into the price. Always review the listing for what’s included before you book.

You’ll find a good mix for groups and families: comfortable pontoons and tritoons for cruising and swim stops, wake and surf boats for watersports, versatile deck and bowrider boats, fishing boats set up for casting the coves, and jet skis for quick spins. Large yachts and sailboats are uncommon here due to lake size and typical conditions.

You can do either. Many listings are self-operated for confident drivers, and there are also captained options if you’d rather relax or don’t meet operator requirements. In Texas, anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 must complete an approved boater education course to operate a motorboat over 15 horsepower. Choosing a captain is a great way to simplify the day for celebrations or first-time visitors.

Common meet-up and launch points include Lake Granbury Marina on S. Morgan Street, the City Beach Park boat ramp at 505 E. Pearl Street near the historic square, Rough Creek Park and Boat Ramp on S. Morgan Street, and DeCordova Bend Park near the dam. Depending on your booking, some hosts can also meet you at Hunter Park or Thorp Spring Park, or arrange dockside pickup at a lakeside home.

Expect classic North Texas lake scenery: wooded shorelines, wide bends of the Brazos River, and peaceful coves lined with lake homes. Near downtown you’ll cruise past City Beach with views of the Hood County Courthouse dome in the distance and the Pearl Street Bridge. Downlake, you can idle near DeCordova Bend Dam, and it’s common to spot herons, egrets, and turtles along the banks on calmer mornings and evenings.

Texas rules apply on Lake Granbury. If you were born on or after September 1, 1993, you must complete a state‑approved boater education course to operate a boat over 15 horsepower. Bring your photo ID and boater education card when you drive. If you prefer not to operate, book a captained rental and your licensed captain will handle the boat.

Yes, families are welcome. Rentals provide U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets, and Texas law requires children under 13 to wear a life jacket while the boat is underway. Let your host know the number and ages of children so they can bring the right sizes; infants and toddlers may need advance notice. Kids count toward the boat’s maximum passenger capacity, so include them in your headcount when booking.

Most hosts allow coolers with your own food and beverages. Cans are preferred over glass, and hard liquor is usually discouraged for safety. Many boats include Bluetooth speakers for music, and small trash bags are helpful to keep the deck tidy. If you’d rather not pack a cooler, the lakeside restaurant at the marina typically offers takeout that’s easy to bring aboard; just confirm timing and pickup with your captain or host.

Many boats are pet‑friendly with approval. Expect a cleaning fee—commonly in the $50–$200 range—and be sure your pet’s nails are trimmed to protect the upholstery. A well‑fitting pet life jacket is strongly recommended. Always check the listing’s pet policy and mention your dog when you send your booking request.

North Texas can see pop‑up thunderstorms and gusty afternoons, especially in late spring and summer. If lightning, high winds, or unsafe lake conditions are forecast, most hosts will work with you to reschedule or offer an appropriate weather cancellation per their policy. Morning departures are typically smoother and cooler; keep an eye on the forecast and message your host the day before if conditions look iffy.

Absolutely. Pontoons and tritoons are popular for groups of 8–12, and captained wake boats are great when you want a driver and watersports coaching. Add a float mat for coves, plan easy pickup at a central launch like City Beach or the marina, and keep the playlist ready. For the smoothest day, choose a 3–4 hour window, confirm your passenger count early, and ask your host about any decor rules if you’re bringing balloons or banners.

Peak boating season runs May through September, with the busiest dates on Memorial Day Weekend, July 4th, and Labor Day. Granbury’s Independence Day fireworks launch over the lake near the Pearl Street Bridge on the evening of July 4, and boats for that night typically sell out weeks in advance. Spring and fall offer mild weather and pretty sunsets, while weekdays and morning departures usually mean calmer water, easier parking, and better availability than weekend afternoons.

To simplify logistics, choose a launch with clear signage and ample parking. Lake Granbury Marina and Rough Creek Park both have dedicated trailer/vehicle parking and restrooms, and City Beach Park is convenient to downtown if your group is meeting near the square. Share the exact pin or address in your group chat, arrive 20–30 minutes early for the safety briefing, and send one person to coordinate with the captain or host at the dock.