The Best Boat Rentals Near Muskegon

For self-operated pontoons and bowriders on Muskegon Lake, expect around $300–$500 for a half day and roughly $500–$700 for a full day, usually with standard safety gear and basic orientation included, and fuel either included for the first tank or charged at the dock. Captained private cruises on Lake Michigan or Muskegon Lake commonly run about $150–$300 per hour with two- or three-hour minimums, while guided fishing charters are often $450–$800 for a half day and $900–$1,200 for a full day, with tackle and fish cleaning frequently included. Larger sightseeing boats selling individual tickets typically price adults around $30–$40 per person in season. Inclusions vary by listing, so check whether fuel, gratuity, docking, and cleaning fees are covered before you book.

You’ll find easygoing pontoons and tritoons for cruising Muskegon Lake, family-friendly bowriders and deck boats, captained sailboats and motor yachts for coastal runs on Lake Michigan, and licensed fishing boats targeting salmon and trout on the big lake or walleye and panfish on Muskegon Lake. In peak season, larger cruise vessels also run scheduled scenic trips along the lakefront and through the channel.

If you want a low-stress day where a local pro handles navigation, docking, and weather calls, a captained charter is the simplest choice—especially for Lake Michigan, which can be choppy. Confident drivers who plan to stay on protected Muskegon Lake can save by renting a self-operated pontoon or bowrider. Many rental outfits limit self-operated boats to Muskegon Lake and do not allow them out the channel to Lake Michigan, so confirm route rules in your listing.

Common pickup points include Hartshorn Municipal Marina near downtown on Muskegon Lake and Harbour Towne Marina by the channel. Public launches that trips may use include Fisherman’s Landing, the Grand Trunk Launch, and the Jaycees (Cottage Grove) Launch, while some larger tours stage at the Mart Dock on the downtown waterfront. Always check your confirmation for the exact meeting point and parking instructions.

Highlights include the twin red lighthouses at the Muskegon Channel, wide sand beaches at Pere Marquette, high-relief dunes in Muskegon State Park, and historic vessels like the USS Silversides submarine in the channel and the SS Milwaukee Clipper on Muskegon Lake. On busy days you may also spot the Lake Express high-speed ferry or a Great Lakes freighter transiting the pierheads.

Michigan requires anyone born after June 30, 1996 to carry a boating safety certificate to operate a motorboat. Many rental companies add their own requirements such as minimum age and prior experience, and some will only offer captained options for trips that go out onto Lake Michigan. If you’re booking a captained charter, the licensed captain operates the vessel and you won’t need to show a boater card.

Yes—families are welcome. Boats must carry U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets for everyone on board, and Michigan law requires children under 6 to wear a properly fitted life jacket on the open deck while underway. Most listings include adult and youth sizes by default; if you need infant or specialty sizes, ask in advance so your host can confirm availability or advise you to bring your own.

Most private charters and self-operated rentals allow you to bring snacks, picnic items, and canned beverages; coolers are fine and glass is typically discouraged. The boat operator may not drink alcohol, and Michigan enforces boating under the influence laws similar to driving on land. Some larger tour boats offer onboard bars instead of BYO—check your listing for details.

Dogs are often allowed on a case-by-case basis. Some owners welcome pets at no charge, while others add a small cleaning fee and require advance approval. Bring a non-slip mat, a water bowl, and a well-fitting pet PFD. If your day includes time ashore, note that dogs are not permitted on Pere Marquette Beach during the summer; plan pet breaks accordingly.

Captains and owners watch marine forecasts closely and will reschedule or cancel if conditions are unsafe due to high winds, storms, dense fog, or hazardous waves—safety comes first. Each Getmyboat listing sets its own cancellation terms, and many offer a full refund or credit for weather-related cancellations. Summer afternoons can be breezier on Lake Michigan, so morning departures are often the smoothest.

Absolutely. Captained cruises are ideal for celebrations because your group can relax while the crew handles the details. When you inquire, share your headcount, preferred vibe (chill cruise versus high-energy), and any extras you want like swim stops, catering, or music. Be sure to confirm the vessel’s legal maximum capacity and plan for two to three hours for sunset and skyline views through the channel.

Peak boating season runs roughly Memorial Day through Labor Day, with the warmest water and longest days in July and August. Holiday weekends—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—book up early. Local events can add energy and demand, including the Burning Foot Beer Festival at Pere Marquette Beach (late August) and the Michigan Irish Music Festival at Heritage Landing (mid-September). For calmer water and easier parking, choose weekdays or morning departures; sunsets are spectacular, but afternoons can be windier and busier.

Yes—running the channel is a signature Muskegon experience, with views of the South Pierhead and Breakwater lights, Pere Marquette Beach, and the USS Silversides in the channel. Captained charters commonly include this route and may continue onto Lake Michigan if conditions allow. If you’re renting a self-operated boat, check your listing’s rules first—many restrict renters to Muskegon Lake and do not permit going out onto Lake Michigan. Either way, expect a no-wake zone in the channel and increased traffic when the ferry or freighters are moving.