The Best Boat Rentals Near Tyler

Most pontoons in the Tyler area run about $100–$150 per hour or roughly $400–$600 for a full day. Wake and surf boats with gear and ballast typically range from $200–$300 per hour. Jet skis generally start around $75–$100 per hour or about $500 for a day. Many listings include standard safety gear and basic orientation; some throw in a tube or tow rope, while fuel and delivery can be extra. Owners on Getmyboat often list a refundable security allowance for incidentals that is only charged if there’s a verified post‑trip claim. Always review the inclusions on the specific listing before you book.

You’ll find plenty of comfortable pontoon and tritoon boats for cruising and parties, wake and surf boats for watersports, nimble bowriders and deck boats for day cruising, fishing-friendly rigs, and jet skis for quick thrills. Large yachts and sailboats are less common on these East Texas lakes, so if that’s your preference, plan ahead and confirm availability.

Choose a captained charter if you want a hands-off day, plan to celebrate with a group, or want instruction for wakesurfing. Book a self-operated rental if you’re comfortable at the helm and meet Texas boater-education rules. Captained trips are typically priced by the hour and may have a separate captain fee; self-operated bookings are usually more budget-friendly but require an experienced, sober operator.

Common meeting points include Lake Tyler Marina (Concession Road in Whitehouse) and nearby public ramps such as Old Omen Road Ramp (west side) and the Highway 64 Ramp on Lake Tyler. On Lake Palestine, popular departures include The Villages Marina in Flint and Lake Palestine Marina. Your exact launch spot will be confirmed in your Getmyboat messages after booking.

Expect classic Piney Woods scenery: quiet coves, tall pines, and waterfront homes. On Lake Tyler, boats can cruise the canal that links Lake Tyler West and Lake Tyler East. On Lake Palestine, you’ll pass long causeway bridges near Coffee City and broad main-lake views. Keep an eye out for great blue herons, egrets, ospreys, and in the cooler months, the occasional bald eagle. Sunset and golden-hour rides are especially pretty on both lakes.

In Texas, anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 must complete an approved boater-education course to operate a motorboat over 15 hp or a wind-powered vessel over 14 feet. Operators must carry their photo ID and boater‑education card. If you book a captained trip, you won’t need to meet operator requirements yourself.

Yes. Most family groups book pontoons because of their space and shade. Texas law requires a properly fitting U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket for each person on board, and children under 13 must wear one while underway on vessels under 26 feet. Owners provide life jackets, but if you’re bringing infants or toddlers, consider bringing your own for the best fit. Let the owner know your group’s ages and sizes when you book.

Typically yes—coolers, snacks, and BYO beverages are common. Many owners ask that you avoid glass and anything that stains (like red wine), and some marinas sell ice and drinks right at the dock to make provisioning easy. Remember that the operator must stay sober; boating while intoxicated carries the same legal limits as driving.

Many pontoons are dog-friendly, but policies vary by owner. Ask in advance, keep pets leashed at the dock, bring a towel and water bowl, and expect a possible cleaning fee. If your pup wears a life jacket, bring it along for a safer, more comfortable day.

East Texas storms can pop up quickly, and after heavy rain the City of Tyler sometimes closes Lake Tyler public ramps until conditions improve. If weather or access becomes an issue, most owners will work with you to reschedule or adjust the plan, and cancellations follow the owner’s stated policy on Getmyboat. If conditions are safe but simply not sunny, standard cancellation terms usually still apply—message the owner early if the forecast looks questionable.

Absolutely. Pontoons and tritoons are ideal for casual celebrations, and wake boats are great if your group wants to tube or surf. Check the boat’s maximum capacity, plan simple decorations (no glitter or confetti), and coordinate pickup details so your guests can park near the launch. If you need a captain, music-compatible boat, or a specific time for golden-hour photos, include those details in your inquiry.

Peak boating runs from late spring through early fall, with May through September the busiest months. Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day are the biggest on‑water holidays, and local fall events like the Texas Rose Festival in October can make town busier even if lake crowds ease. For smoother water and easier parking, choose weekday mornings; for cooler temps in summer, aim for morning or sunset cruises.

Yes. The two lakes are connected by a navigable canal, making it a fun mini‑excursion during a half‑day or full‑day rental. Your owner or captain will let you know about current water levels, clearance, and the best route for your specific boat, and will recommend calmer times of day if you’re planning watersports between lakes.