The Best Boat Rentals in Mississauga

Most captained powerboats and cruisers on Lake Ontario start around $150–$250 per hour on weekdays and about $200–$350+ per hour on weekends, with popular midsize yachts commonly in the $200–$300s per hour range. Larger, premium yachts can run $400–$600+ per hour depending on size, amenities, and date. Expect minimums of 2.5–4 hours in peak season. Typical inclusions are a licensed captain, standard safety gear, fuel for local cruising, and basic cleaning; taxes, platform service fees, docking or special pick-up fees, and gratuity are usually additional. Booking well in advance and choosing weekday mornings can keep rates lower.

You’ll find comfortable motor yachts and cabin cruisers for groups, pontoons for relaxed shoreline cruising, and classic sailboats for a quieter ride. Many yachts offer indoor salons, shaded decks, Bluetooth sound, swim ladders, and coolers; some feature BBQs or climate‑controlled cabins. Choose size and style based on your group count, desired vibe (chill cruise vs. celebration), and how far you want to travel.

If you’re booking a captained charter, you do not need a licence—the skipper handles the operation. If you want to operate a powerboat yourself, Canada requires proof of competency. The most common is the Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC). For short‑term rentals, a completed Rental Boat Safety Checklist provided by the rental agent can serve as proof of competency for the rental period. Visitors may use equivalent documents from their home country. Sailboats with auxiliary motors also require proof of competency.

Most private charters meet in the Port Credit area. Common departure points include Credit Village Marina beside the Port Credit Lighthouse, Port Credit Harbour Marina at 1 Port Street East, and Lakefront Promenade Marina near Lakefront Promenade Park. Your captain will confirm the exact meeting spot and parking details after you book.

Expect sweeping views of the Lake Ontario coastline, the red‑and‑white Port Credit Lighthouse, and the historic “Ridgetown” freighter breakwall at the Credit River mouth. On clear days you’ll enjoy Toronto skyline views to the east, and along the Mississauga shoreline you’ll pass parks like J.C. Saddington Park, Brueckner Rhododendron Gardens, and the natural shoreline near Rattray Marsh. Sunset and blue‑hour cruises are especially scenic.

Yes—families are welcome on most charters. By law, there must be a properly sized, approved lifejacket or PFD for each person on board, and captains keep the required safety equipment on the vessel. If you’re bringing infants or toddlers, it’s best to confirm sizes in advance or bring your own well‑fitted child lifejacket. Strollers typically stay dockside; soft‑soled shoes and sun protection are recommended.

Most captains allow you to bring your own snacks, meals, and non‑alcoholic drinks, and many provide a cooler with ice. Glass is generally discouraged for safety. If you plan to drink alcohol, be aware of Ontario’s rules: open alcohol is only permitted when the boat has permanent cooking, sleeping, and toilet facilities and is anchored, docked, or beached. The operator must always remain sober. When in doubt, ask your captain about their onboard policy and recommended options.

Some boats are pet‑friendly, especially for small, well‑behaved dogs, while others are not. If allowed, pets usually need to stay leashed on deck, avoid cabins and upholstery, and owners may be responsible for a cleaning fee. Confirm the policy, bring a non‑slip mat, water bowl, and consider a canine lifejacket for safety.

Conditions on Lake Ontario can change quickly with wind and waves, especially on hot afternoons when a lake breeze picks up. Captains monitor marine forecasts on the day of your trip and may adjust routes or timing for comfort. If the captain determines it’s unsafe, most listings offer a weather reschedule or refund per the stated policy. For the smoothest water and fewer crowds, morning departures are your best bet.

Prime boating season runs from May through September, with July and August being the busiest and warmest months. Major Canadian holiday weekends—Victoria Day (the Monday before May 25), Canada Day (July 1), Civic Holiday (first Monday in August), and Labour Day (first Monday in September)—book up early and often carry peak pricing. Weekdays are typically less crowded and can be more affordable; mornings are calmer, while late‑day trips deliver golden light and skyline sunsets.

Most Getmyboat listings here are captained to keep things easy for groups and first‑timers. If you prefer to be at the helm, look for “no‑captain” or “bareboat” options and be prepared to show proof of competency (PCOC or a rental checklist for the rental period) and boating experience. Owners may set weather/wind limits or restrict routes for self‑operated rentals.

Absolutely. Private boats are ideal for celebrations, with many yachts set up for 8–12 guests and larger vessels accommodating 15–20 or more, depending on the boat’s certified capacity. You can usually bring decorations (nothing that sheds), a cake, and a playlist for the onboard speakers. To keep planning simple, ask your captain about recommended pickup spots, timing for best light, and any add‑ons like catering, ice, or a photographer. Weekend afternoons sell out fastest—reserve a few weeks early in peak season.

Yes—during Labour Day weekend, many captains offer special cruises to view the Canadian International Air Show as the aircraft perform over Toronto’s waterfront. In 2025, the show runs August 30–September 1, typically in the early afternoon. These trips are extremely popular and subject to strict safety zones and weather; book well in advance and expect premium holiday pricing and earlier meeting times.