The Best Boat Rentals in White Bear Lake

For most lake days, expect pontoons to run about $75–$150 per hour or $350–$650 for a half or full day, while wake and ski boats, jet boats, and deck boats are more in the $120–$200 per hour range. Captained cruises tend to be higher, often $150–$250 per hour depending on group size and timing. Rates usually include required safety gear and a quick orientation, and fuel may be either included up to a set amount or charged at the end. Taxes and optional add‑ons like tubes, lily pads, coolers, or Bluetooth speakers are typically extra.

The most popular options here are spacious pontoons for groups, plus runabouts and deck boats for cruising and swimming. You’ll also see wake and ski boats for tubing or boarding and, at times, jet boats for a zippy ride. While the lake has a long sailing heritage, day-to-day rentals are more commonly motorboats because they’re beginner‑friendly and easy for mixed groups.

You can do either. Many listings are self‑operated, which keeps costs down if someone in your group wants to drive. Captained options are available if you prefer to relax while a local skipper handles docking, navigation, and safety. If you plan to self‑operate, build in a few minutes for the dockside briefing so you’re comfortable with local markers and no‑wake areas.

Common meet‑ups include the boat launch at Matoska Park near the Manitou Island Bridge and the White Bear Lake County Park boat launch at Ramsey County Beach on Lake Avenue. Some hosts also use nearby private marinas such as White Bear Docking. Your confirmation will share the exact pin and parking details; on sunny weekends these lots fill early, so plan to arrive ahead of schedule.

Highlights include the scenic Manitou Island and its iconic bridge, the shoreline parks around Matoska and Memorial Beach, and the Boatworks Commons area on the west shore, which marks the site of historic Johnson Boat Works. On breezy days you may spot classic scow sailboats and, with a little luck, loons or bald eagles overhead. Sunset runs showcase big skies and photo‑worthy views of the surrounding towns of Dellwood, Mahtomedi, and Birchwood across the water.

Yes, new Minnesota rules effective July 1, 2025 mean many operators now need proof of boater education. If you’re renting, you must be 18+ and either hold a valid watercraft operator’s permit or complete Minnesota’s rental course (good for 180 days). People born after June 30, 2004 generally need a permit to operate a motorboat, and under‑18s cannot rent. Requirements can vary by owner and boat type, so check your listing and have your certification ready at check‑in.

Kids are welcome on most boats, and life jackets are provided in adult and youth sizes. Minnesota law requires that children under 10 wear a U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket whenever the boat is underway, so be sure to give your host accurate ages and headcounts. If you have infants or toddlers, ask about sizes in advance or bring a properly fitting jacket your child already likes.

Most hosts allow you to bring snacks, picnic spreads, and sealed beverages. For everyone’s safety, glass is usually discouraged on the lake, and grills or open flames are often not permitted on rental boats. Many planners pre‑order sandwiches or platters from downtown White Bear Lake and pack a cooler with ice and water. If you plan to have alcoholic beverages, keep it moderate and remember your designated operator must stay sober.

Pet policies vary. Some owners welcome well‑behaved dogs with prior approval, while others limit pets due to upholstery or cleaning constraints. If you’re bringing a pup, confirm before booking, keep nails trimmed, bring a non‑slip mat and a dog life jacket, and plan a quick shore break if you’re out for several hours.

Summer weather in Minnesota can shift quickly, especially with pop‑up afternoon showers or gusty winds. Most hosts have a weather policy that allows a no‑penalty reschedule or refund if conditions are unsafe. If the forecast looks iffy, message your host early to align on a back‑up time. For the smoothest water and the least risk of storms, mornings are often your best bet.

Yes. Pontoons are ideal for 8–12 guests, with shaded seating, easy swim ladders, and room for coolers and decorations. Captained cruises keep logistics simple for hosts so you can focus on music, photos, and the cake. Share your headcount and any special plans in advance so the owner can suggest the right boat, route, and timing.

Peak boating runs from late May through early September, with June–August as the busiest stretch. Holiday weekends—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—book up early, and traffic on the water and at the ramps can be heavy. Local summer events like Manitou Days in June and downtown Marketfest on Thursday evenings add to the buzz. For calmer water, easier parking, and better rates, choose weekdays and earlier start times; sunsets are gorgeous, but mornings are typically the least crowded.

Two favorites are the Manitou Days traditions—often including a July 4th boat parade and fireworks visible from the lake—and the Midwest Ski Otters’ free Sunday evening water‑ski shows on nearby Little Goose Lake in White Bear Lake. Both draw crowds on shore and on the water, so book early, arrive with extra time, and follow any posted no‑wake and anchoring guidance near viewing areas.