The Best Boat Rentals in Colorado

Most renters in Colorado, United States can expect pontoons to run about $100–$175 per hour, with half‑day totals commonly around $350–$700 depending on boat size, day of week, and season. Fishing pontoons and smaller powerboats often price a bit lower, while captained private cruises typically start around $180–$250 per hour; large group party barges can be $400+ per hour. Prices usually include required life jackets and basic safety gear, and many lake marinas include fuel for standard sightseeing use. Taxes, booking fees, and optional add‑ons (captain’s fee if not included, extra time, cleaning for excessive mess) are typically extra. To keep things simple, review the listing’s “What’s Included” and “Fees” sections before you book.

The most common options are comfortable pontoon boats for groups, fishing pontoons or small powerboats for anglers, wake and ski boats where watersports are allowed, and sailboats on select alpine lakes. For a hands‑off experience, many listings also offer captained pontoon cruises and private sightseeing tours ideal for celebrations.

Adults 18 and older do not need a separate boating license to operate a motorboat in Colorado, but must follow all state rules and the owner’s requirements. Operators ages 14–17 may drive a motorboat only with a Colorado Parks & Wildlife–approved boater safety course certificate. Children under 14 may not operate motorboats. If you prefer not to drive, choose a captained trip.

Pick a captained trip if you want a turnkey day where a licensed pro handles docking, navigation, and the itinerary—great for birthdays, bachelorettes, or when your group spans a wide range of abilities. Self‑operated rentals are budget‑friendly and flexible for experienced boaters. For some listings, the captain fee is bundled in the price; others let you add a captain during booking. If you’re unsure, ask the owner to recommend what fits your group size, experience, and lake rules.

Popular launch points include the boat ramps and marina areas at Chatfield State Park in Littleton and Cherry Creek State Park in Aurora for easy Front Range access. In the mountains, many trips depart from Dillon Reservoir (Dillon or Frisco) with sweeping alpine views, Horsetooth Reservoir near Fort Collins, Lake Pueblo State Park in Pueblo with its big water and long season, and Lake Granby in the Arapaho National Recreation Area near Granby. Your exact meeting point will be listed in your booking and typically includes clear directions, ramp hours, and park entry details.

Expect classic Rocky Mountain scenery: foothills and Front Range views on Chatfield and Cherry Creek, dramatic red‑rock hogbacks at Horsetooth, broad alpine panoramas of the Tenmile and Gore Ranges on Dillon Reservoir, and wide‑open vistas with sandstone bluffs at Lake Pueblo. Keep an eye out for osprey, bald eagles, and other birdlife, especially near inlets and shorelines.

Yes—kids are welcome on most boats. Colorado requires a properly sized U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket for every passenger, and children 12 and under must wear one whenever the boat is underway. Rental boats include life jackets sized for adults and children; tell the owner your group’s headcount and ages so they can have the right sizes ready. Strollers aren’t ideal on deck—consider soft‑sided bags and plan for sun protection at altitude.

Most listings allow coolers, snacks, and drinks. Many lakes and marinas request no glass containers, and grills are commonly not allowed onboard. If your group wants a picnic cruise, pack easy, non‑messy items and confirm specifics in the listing. The designated driver must remain sober, and boat owners can decline boarding if safety rules aren’t met.

Pet policies vary by lake and operator. Some marinas welcome well‑behaved dogs on pontoon boats, sometimes with an added cleaning fee, while others do not allow pets on rental vessels. If you’re bringing a pup, choose a listing that states dogs are permitted, bring a dog life jacket if you have one, and budget extra time for boarding and cleanup.

Summer afternoons can bring gusty winds and fast‑moving thunderstorms, while mornings are typically calmer. Water stays cold at elevation even on hot days, so plan layers. If weather looks questionable, your captain or owner will make the final call on safety. Getmyboat bookings follow each owner’s cancellation policy; many will reschedule or refund if unsafe conditions prevent departure, but light rain or overcast skies may not qualify. Check the policy on your listing and message the owner if you have timing flexibility.

Peak boating season runs roughly Memorial Day through Labor Day, with July and August the busiest months. Major boating holidays—Memorial Day weekend, July 4th, and Labor Day—book early and see heavier lake traffic. Weekdays are the easiest for parking and ramp lines, and mornings usually offer the smoothest water. Some Front Range lakes can reach launch capacity on sunny summer weekends; booking an early start or a captained trip can help you avoid delays.

Absolutely. Pontoons and captained sightseeing cruises make group planning simple, with shaded seating, easy boarding, and room for snacks and a small celebration. When you send your booking request, share your headcount, preferred start time, and any must‑haves (Bluetooth speaker, cake space, mobility needs). Owners can often suggest the right duration and route so your event feels relaxed and on schedule.

Colorado reservoirs require aquatic invasive species inspections and follow local ramp hours, but when you rent a boat that’s already on the lake, the owner handles those details. Your part is simple: arrive early to park, meet at the ramp or marina, and follow the captain or owner’s safety briefing and local rules like speed limits and no‑wake zones.

If you’re visiting in late August, the Dillon Open Regatta brings colorful sails to Dillon Reservoir for a high‑alpine racing weekend. Booking a captained cruise that morning or mid‑day lets your group watch the action from the water while taking in the surrounding peaks. Dates vary each year, so check timing and availability when you plan.