The Best Boat Rentals Near Kansas

Most renters in Kansas can expect easy, round-number pricing. Pontoons and deck boats commonly run about $80–$150 per hour, with full-day rates around $350–$700 depending on size, season, and amenities. Ski and wake boats are typically higher, often $150–$250 per hour. Captained trips usually bundle the boat and captain’s time and often start around $175–$250 per hour. Safety gear is included on every legal rental; fuel, taxes, and optional add‑ons like tubes, float mats, or cleaning fees are typically extra. Holiday weekends may carry peak pricing and minimums, so book early if your dates include Memorial Day, July 4th, or Labor Day.

The most common rentals are comfortable pontoon and tritoon boats for groups, plus deck boats and runabouts for cruising or towing. You’ll also find ski and wake boats for watersports on bigger reservoirs, fishing-friendly powerboats, and, on windier lakes, occasional sailboat options. Large luxury yachts are uncommon on inland Kansas lakes, but many pontoons are event-ready with canopies, Bluetooth sound, and plenty of seating.

Choose a captained outing if you want a stress‑free day, are new to the lake, or are planning a celebration and prefer not to drive. A licensed captain handles docking, routing, and weather calls while you focus on your group. Confident boaters often select self‑operated pontoons or runabouts; just remember that in Kansas, younger operators need boating education to run the boat without direct adult supervision, and the designated driver must stay sober. If in doubt, book captained—the experience is effortless and typically the quickest way to get your group on the water.

Common pickup points include full‑service marinas and state‑park launch areas. Popular starts are Clinton Marina on Clinton Lake in Lawrence, Lake Perry Yacht & Marina on Perry Lake, Lake Wilson Marina at Wilson State Park near Sylvan Grove, and Milford State Park Marina on Milford Lake near Junction City. Depending on your itinerary, you may also see departures from Jayhawk Marina on Hillsdale Lake south of the Kansas City metro and Wildcat Marina at Tuttle Creek Lake in Manhattan. Your Getmyboat booking will confirm the exact dock and meet‑up instructions for the day.

Kansas reservoirs deliver big‑sky views, rocky coves, and wide, open water. Wilson Lake is famed for its clear water and dramatic limestone bluffs, while Clinton and Perry feature wooded shorelines, prairie vistas, and calm coves for swimming. Milford Lake—the state’s largest—offers broad horizons and frequent wildlife sightings. On windier days, Cheney Reservoir is known for sailboats streaking across the main basin. In late fall through early spring, bald eagles are often seen around major reservoirs, especially near open water and dam areas.

Kansas requires boaters ages 12–20 to complete an approved boater education course to operate a motorized boat or sailboat without direct and audible supervision. Kids under 12 may not operate a motorized vessel without a qualified adult on board. Adults 21 and older do not need a boater‑education card to operate, though safe‑boating knowledge is strongly recommended. Visitors’ approved safety cards from other states are generally recognized. If you don’t meet the requirements or simply prefer to relax, book a captained rental and your skipper will handle the helm.

Yes—family outings are common, and legal rentals include U.S. Coast Guard‑approved life jackets for your group. Kansas law requires children 12 and under to wear a life jacket at all times while on a boat, even when anchored. If you have infants or toddlers, confirm availability of the correct sizes when booking or bring your own properly fitted Type II or Type III vest. Captains provide a safety briefing before departure and will advise on safe seating while underway.

Most owners allow you to bring snacks, picnic spreads, and coolers with ice. Glass containers and grilling on board are commonly restricted, and red wine may be discouraged to avoid stains—check your listing’s rules. Passengers may drink alcohol, but Kansas boating law prohibits operating a vessel under the influence (the same 0.08% limit as driving). Choose a sober operator or book a captained trip so everyone can relax. Many marinas have convenience stores or lakeside eateries for grab‑and‑go provisions before you depart.

Policies vary. Some boats welcome well‑behaved dogs and may charge a modest pet or cleaning fee; others prohibit pets to protect upholstery or for allergy reasons. If you plan to bring a dog, mention the breed and weight in your inquiry, bring a non‑slip mat and water bowl, and keep pets leashed at the dock. Life jackets for dogs are recommended if you’ll be swimming off the boat.

Kansas summers can bring pop‑up thunderstorms and brisk winds, and operators monitor radar closely. If lightning, unsafe winds, or severe weather make boating unsafe, most owners will reschedule or issue a weather credit according to their stated policy. Light rain alone may not qualify. If your schedule is tight, consider morning departures, which are typically calmer and less storm‑prone than late afternoons. Always follow your captain’s guidance on go/no‑go decisions.

Absolutely. Pontoons and tritoons are perfect for celebrations, with shaded seating, swim ladders, and Bluetooth sound. Captained trips work best for milestone events—your captain can handle routing, anchoring in calm coves, and timekeeping so you can focus on photos, cake, and playlists. Share your headcount and vibe when you inquire, and ask about popular swim coves or mellow cruise routes suited to your group.

Prime boating season generally runs from late May through early September, with the busiest weekends on Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day. Many marinas and services operate seasonally from spring through fall, with the broadest availability from June to August. Weekdays offer lighter crowds and easier parking; mornings tend to be smoother and cooler, while afternoons bring more traffic and higher chances of gusty winds or pop‑up storms. If you’re timing a special outing, book several weeks in advance for summer weekends and holiday dates.

For Lawrence and Topeka trips, Clinton Marina at Clinton Lake and Lake Perry Yacht & Marina on Perry Lake are close and well equipped. Travelers in central Kansas often launch from Lake Wilson Marina at Wilson State Park or Milford State Park Marina on Milford Lake. If you’re near the Kansas City metro, Jayhawk Marina on Hillsdale Lake is a quick drive; in the Manhattan area, Wildcat Marina at Tuttle Creek Lake is a common pickup. Your host will confirm the exact dock, parking details, and any park entry fees after booking.

Wildlife cruising in the cooler months is a local favorite. From roughly November through March, bald eagles frequent big reservoirs like Clinton and Milford. On calm, clear days you can often spot them soaring or perched near open water around the dam. Pair a short, scenic charter with a warm drink, dress in layers, and ask your captain for the best viewing stretch for the week you’re in town.