The Best Boat Rentals in Salt Lake City

Most wake and surf boats in the Salt Lake City area run about $150–$300 per hour, while comfortable pontoons and bowriders usually range from $90–$175 per hour. Day rates for popular lake boats commonly fall between $600 and $1,200 depending on size, season, and whether a captain is included. Your booking generally includes required safety gear and life jackets sized for your group, and many wake boats include boards, ropes, and basic instruction. Fuel, launch or park fees, and gratuity may be extra, so review the listing details before you confirm.

You’ll find modern wake and surf boats for water sports, family-friendly pontoons for relaxed cruising, nimble bowriders for tubing and sightseeing, and a few sailboats on nearby reservoirs. Large yachts are uncommon here due to lake sizes and marina infrastructure, so most rentals are lake-ready runabouts, pontoons, and purpose-built wake boats designed for Jordanelle, Deer Creek, Pineview, Utah Lake, and the Great Salt Lake.

If you want a stress-free day, coaching for wake surfing, or local knowledge of launch sites, wind patterns, and safe coves, book a captained charter. Experienced boaters often choose self-operated rentals on the reservoirs, but the Great Salt Lake can see sudden winds and choppy conditions, so a captain is a smart call there. Many owners require demonstrated experience (and a security deposit) for bareboat bookings; captained trips typically bundle instruction and safety oversight into the rate.

Common launch points include Great Salt Lake State Park & Marina just west of the city, Jordanelle State Park’s Hailstone ramp near Park City, Deer Creek State Park’s Main and Island area ramps in Heber Valley, Utah Lake State Park in Provo, and Pineview Reservoir’s Port Ramp or Cemetery Point in Ogden Valley. Ramp access and water levels can change seasonally, so it’s best to confirm your exact meeting spot and day-of conditions with the owner after booking.

Expect wide-open views of the Wasatch Mountains and classic Utah scenery. On Deer Creek you cruise beneath Mount Timpanogos; on Jordanelle you’ll see the Deer Valley ridgeline and rolling hills; at Pineview you’re ringed by Ogden Valley peaks and sandy beaches. Out on the Great Salt Lake, you’ll get mirror-like horizons, glowing sunsets, and views of Antelope Island, with frequent sightings of pelicans, avocets, and other migratory birds.

Utah’s rules are age- and vessel-specific. For personal watercraft, operators ages 12–17 must complete an approved youth course; those 16–17 can operate a PWC after passing, while ages 12–15 must also be directly supervised by an adult. For motorboats and sailboats, anyone 16 and older may operate on their own; under 16 must be directly supervised by an adult onboard. If you book a captained trip, your licensed/qualified captain handles the operation and you don’t need to meet operator requirements yourself.

Yes—families are welcome. Utah requires a properly sized, U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket for each person onboard, and children 12 and under must wear one while the boat is underway. Your captain or owner will provide the required PFDs and basic safety briefing. If you plan to tube or wake surf, expect everyone participating to wear a life jacket while in the water.

Most charters allow you to bring snacks, picnic items, and sealed beverages, and many boats have coolers or allow you to bring your own soft cooler. Glass is discouraged around marinas and beaches, and the operator must remain sober—boating under the influence is illegal in Utah—so plan accordingly. Always check your boat’s specific house rules on alcohol, red dyes, or spill-prone items before you arrive.

Some boats are dog-friendly with prior approval and a cleaning fee, while others prohibit pets to protect upholstery and flooring. Local parks typically require dogs to remain on a leash, and certain developed swim beaches restrict pets. If you’re bringing a pup, confirm in advance, pack a towel, water bowl, and booties for hot decks, and be mindful of claws on cushioned seating.

Summer brings mostly sunny days, but afternoon winds and pop-up thunderstorms can occur, especially on mountain reservoirs. The Great Salt Lake can get rough quickly when storms roll through, so many trips aim for morning departures with calmer water. Weather-related cancellations follow each owner’s policy; if conditions are unsafe, most captains will reschedule or refund, but if the water is deemed safe, standard cancellation terms usually apply. Confirm the policy when you book so you know your options.

Absolutely. Many captains welcome special occasions and can suggest the best lakes, anchor spots, and timelines for your group. Expect Bluetooth audio, comfortable seating, and space for coolers. To keep the day smooth, finalize your guest count early, respect the boat’s maximum capacity, and choose morning or weekday slots for the smoothest water and easiest parking.

Peak boating runs from late May through September, with Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day weekends booking up first. Weekdays and mornings offer the calmest water and lighter crowds; afternoons and Saturdays are busiest. Shoulder months in late April and into October can be great value days if the forecast is mild and you’re prepared for cooler air and water temps.

Yes—consider a Great Salt Lake sunset cruise departing the State Park Marina. It’s an easy add to a city itinerary and delivers glassy horizons, fiery sunsets, and excellent bird-watching with views of Antelope Island. The water’s salinity makes floating effortless, and a guided tour handles navigation and timing around changing lake conditions so you can simply relax and enjoy the spectacle.