The Best Boat Rentals in Wayzata

On Lake Minnetonka, most weekday bareboat pontoons and smaller powerboats run about $90–$150 per hour, with many half-day totals landing around $350–$600 and full days from roughly $400–$700. Captained cruises, wake boats, and small cruisers usually range from $200–$300 per hour depending on group size, boat style, and weekend or holiday demand. Prices often include standard safety gear, a bimini/shade, Bluetooth audio, and basic orientation; many listings include fuel, while taxes, captain’s fees, and security deposits vary by boat. Expect higher rates and stricter minimums on peak weekends and major holidays.

The most popular choices are pontoons for relaxing cruises, bowriders and deck boats for sightseeing and swimming stops, wake and surf boats for watersports, and small cabin cruisers for comfort-forward outings. You’ll also find captained tours on premium pontoons, wake boats with instruction, and cruiser-style boats for special occasions. Inventory changes through the season, but pontoons and bowriders are consistently plentiful around Wayzata.

You can do either. Many planners choose a captained trip for a stress‑free day and local know‑how, especially for celebrations. If you prefer to drive, Minnesota’s updated boater education law (effective July 1, 2025) requires a valid watercraft operator’s permit for operators born after June 30, 2004, with the requirement phasing in for older birth years through 2028. Renters 18+ can also complete the Minnesota watercraft rental course for short‑term rentals. Some owners set higher age requirements or experience checks, and adults without a permit may still operate only when accompanied by an eligible operator on board. Always review the listing’s rules before you book.

Common, easy-to-find pickup points include the Wayzata Depot Docks by the historic Depot on Lake Street and the Broadway Docks along Panoway on Wayzata Bay. Depending on the boat and your plan, owners may also arrange departures from the Wayzata Boat Launch on Eastman Lane, the busy Gray’s Bay Public Marina on the east side of the lake, or other nearby marinas and restaurant docks when allowed. Your exact meeting spot will be confirmed after booking.

Expect classic Lake Minnetonka scenery: the new Lakewalk and lively Panoway shoreline, the Tudor‑style Wayzata Depot, graceful sailboats, and grand waterfront homes. Cruising farther brings you past notable points and bays like Cedar and Breezy points, Robinson’s Bay, Lafayette Bay, and—time permitting—the social anchoring scene around Big Island. Sunset cruises in Wayzata Bay are especially pretty, with an easy dock‑and‑dine stop back in town.

Minnesota law now requires a valid watercraft operator’s permit for operators born after June 30, 2004 (effective July 1, 2025), expanding annually to older birth years through 2028. If you’re 18 or older renting from a rental business, you can also meet requirements by completing the Minnesota watercraft rental course (short‑term certificate) or by already holding a recognized boater safety card. Non‑residents using Minnesota waters for fewer than 60 days may operate if they meet their home state’s rules. Owners may set stricter standards, so check your listing before you book.

Yes—family groups are common and most boats include Coast Guard‑approved adult life jackets and required safety equipment, with child sizes available on request. By Minnesota law, children under 10 must wear a life jacket whenever the boat is underway (with limited exceptions such as enclosed cabins or certain licensed passenger vessels). Even when not required, captains and owners often ask kids to keep life jackets on. If you’re bringing infants or toddlers, confirm sizing and bring your own well‑fitting PFD if possible for the best comfort and safety.

Most boats are BYO for snacks, soft drinks, and adult beverages, and coolers are welcome. Expect common-sense rules like no glass, no open flames or grills, and tidying up at the end of your trip. Many groups plan a mid‑cruise dock‑and‑dine at lakefront spots around Wayzata Bay or a quick bathroom break at public docks. If you have a captain, tell them your plan and they’ll time a smooth stop.

Policies vary by owner. Some boats welcome dogs with prior approval and a cleaning fee, while others have a firm no‑pets rule to protect upholstery and keep rentals allergy‑friendly. Service animals are generally accommodated. If bringing a pet is essential, filter for pet‑friendly listings and confirm in your booking messages before you reserve.

Summer brings the occasional pop‑up storm or windy afternoon. If conditions are unsafe (for example, lightning or high winds), most owners will reschedule or refund per the listing’s cancellation policy; final calls are typically made day‑of by the captain or owner. If it’s simply cloudy or cooler, trips often proceed as planned. To reduce stress, book a morning start for calmer water, build a backup window into your itinerary, and review the listing’s weather and cancellation terms before paying.

Absolutely. Captained pontoons, wake boats with an instructor, and small cruisers are popular for celebrations. For smooth planning, match your guest count to the boat’s legal capacity, decide on a vibe (relaxed cruise, swim stop, or lively dock‑and‑dine), and consider a weekday or early‑day slot for easier parking and less boat traffic. Captains can suggest scenic swim coves, quiet photo backdrops near the Depot and Lakewalk, and timing to avoid the busiest channels.

Peak lake time runs Memorial Day through Labor Day, with July and August the busiest. Major boating holidays—Memorial Day weekend, July 4th, and Labor Day—book up early and carry premium pricing. In Wayzata, the weekend after Labor Day brings the James J. Hill Days festival on the Lake Street waterfront, which makes docks and parking lively but fun for people‑watching by boat. Weekdays and mornings offer smoother water and easier dockage; late afternoons can be breezier and busier, especially near popular gathering spots.

Arrive 10–15 minutes early at your confirmed dock, keep an eye out for posted “short‑term public dock” signs, and load quickly to be courteous to other boaters. At Gray’s Bay and other busy launches, parking fills fast—carpool or use a rideshare. If you’re meeting at the Depot or Broadway docks along Panoway, follow any staff directions on busy weekends and avoid overnight mooring. Your captain or owner will message exact coordinates and any last‑minute changes.

Big Island is a classic Lake Minnetonka anchoring spot with a festive weekend scene in summer. It’s great for a quick swim and people‑watching, but it gets crowded on sunny afternoons and holidays. Use extra caution when rafting up, keep music considerate, and pack out all trash. Families often opt for quieter bays closer to Wayzata earlier in the day, then head to Big Island if conditions and the group vibe fit.