The Best Boat Rentals in Wildwood

Most private, captained cruises in the Wildwood area run about $150–$250 per hour for small groups, with popular tiki-style and party pontoons typically $200–$250 per hour. Inshore fishing charters often range from about $500–$900 for a half day, while full-day trips can be higher. If you want to drive yourself in the back bays, full-day pontoon or center-console rentals commonly fall around $300–$800 depending on size, season, and duration. Rates generally include the boat, required safety gear, and—on captained trips—the captain and standard fuel for local routes. Taxes, service fees, gratuity, and add-ons like coolers, ice, or special pickup locations are usually extra.

You’ll find a wide mix that fits most group plans: comfortable pontoons and deck boats for cruising the back bays, bowriders and center consoles for sightseeing or light fishing, larger sportfishing boats for inshore or nearshore trips, and themed tiki boats for parties. A handful of small yachts and sail or specialty tour boats may also be available in nearby harbors like Cape May, especially in peak season.

If you want a stress-free day, book a captained charter—no license required for passengers. To drive yourself on New Jersey waters, most adults need a New Jersey Boating Safety Certificate (or an accepted equivalent from your home state). Visitors can usually operate with proof of an approved NASBLA boating safety course. Captained trips are recommended for ocean or inlet cruising, while qualified renters often self-operate pontoons or small center consoles on the calmer back bays.

Common meeting spots include marinas clustered near the Rio Grande Avenue/George Redding Bridge and along the Intracoastal Waterway. Popular departure points are Schooner Island Marina on Lake Road, Pier 47 Marina on Wildwood Boulevard, Lighthouse Pointe Marina on Shawcrest Road, Two Mile Landing Marina on Fish Dock Road in Wildwood Crest, and Grassy Sound Marina just north of North Wildwood. Some trips—especially wildlife or lighthouse cruises—also depart nearby from Cape May marinas.

Expect classic Jersey Shore scenery: winding salt marshes, ospreys and shorebirds over the back bays, and the skyline of the Wildwoods Boardwalk with Morey’s Piers in the distance. North of the island, Hereford Inlet and its historic lighthouse make a great photo backdrop, while cruises south toward Cape May often pass the Cape May Lighthouse and dolphin-rich nearshore waters. On summer Fridays, fireworks over the beach are visible from many anchorage and cruising spots.

Yes—families are welcome on most listings. Every passenger gets a properly sized U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket, and New Jersey requires children 12 and under to wear a life jacket while the boat is underway. If you’re bringing little ones, share ages and approximate weights so your host can have the right sizes ready. Captains provide a safety briefing before departure, and many boats have shaded seating; some larger vessels also have onboard restrooms.

Most captains allow you to bring snacks, picnic spreads, and canned beverages. Glass is usually discouraged on deck, and hard liquor policies vary by host. If you’re self-operating, make sure the designated driver remains sober—Boating Under the Influence laws apply on the water. Many listings can provide coolers and ice if requested in advance, or you can pack your own.

Pet policies vary by boat, but many hosts allow well-behaved dogs, especially on private pontoon and tiki cruises. Bring a leash, a towel, a water bowl, and consider a dog life jacket. To protect nesting birds on local sandbars and inlet islands, expect seasonal restrictions on landing—your captain will advise where you can and can’t go ashore.

Your captain will monitor marine conditions and decide if it’s safe to go. If conditions are unsafe, most hosts will offer to reschedule or provide a refund according to the listing’s cancellation policy. Summer here often brings light morning winds with a stronger afternoon sea breeze and the chance of brief pop-up showers, so packing a light layer and flexible plans helps. Always check the specific cancellation terms on your reservation before you book.

Absolutely. Private pontoons and tiki boats are perfect for music, photos, and a laid-back cruise, while larger groups can opt for multi-boat flotillas or specialty party cruises. Tell your captain the occasion—many can suggest scenic routes, photo stops, and timing to catch sunset or the Friday night fireworks. Confirm maximum passenger counts, decoration rules, and any add-ons early so everything’s set when you arrive.

Peak boating season runs from late May through early September, with the biggest demand on weekends and during major holidays like Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day. Wildwood’s summer calendar also draws big crowds for events such as the Wildwoods International Kite Festival over Memorial Day weekend and the Barefoot Country Music Fest (June 19–22, 2025), plus weekly Friday Night Fireworks from late June through August. For smoother water and easier parking, consider weekday mornings or shoulder-season dates in late May or September; mornings are typically calmer than afternoons.

For prime summer weekends and event dates, booking 3–4 weeks ahead is smart; for weekdays or shoulder season, a week or two often works. Your captain will share a marina meeting point and parking tips, and may send gate codes or a dock number. Plan to arrive 15–20 minutes early with your ID, the card you used to book, and any BYO items so you can load up and start on time.

Yes—many evening cruises time a route to see the 10 p.m. Friday fireworks during the summer. Boats fill quickly for these nights, especially near the Boardwalk and Pine Avenue launch area, so reserve early, bring a light layer for the breeze after sunset, and confirm your captain’s recommended viewing spot and return time.