The Best Boat Rentals in Jersey City

Most private charters here are priced by the hour. As a simple guide, small powerboats usually run about $200–$300 per hour, classic sailboats are often $225–$400 per hour, mid‑size motor yachts for 6–12 guests tend to be $300–$700 per hour, and larger luxury yachts for bigger groups are commonly $800–$2,000+ per hour. Prices often include the boat, basic safety gear, and docking time; many captained trips include the captain’s fee and standard fuel for a short harbor cruise, while extras like longer routes, premium fuel, crew, decorations, or gratuity are additional. Each Getmyboat listing spells out what’s included—confirm details with your captain before you book so there are no surprises.

You’ll find a wide mix suited to different group sizes and vibes: comfortable powerboats for quick skyline cruises, classic sailboats for relaxed outings, party‑ready yachts for celebrations, spacious motor yachts for premium experiences, and larger inspected vessels that can host bigger groups. Many boats are set up for sightseeing, sunset cruises, proposals, and milestone events with sound systems, coolers, and comfortable seating.

Most trips here are captained, which keeps your day easy in the busy waters of New York Harbor. Experienced boaters can occasionally book self‑operated (bareboat) charters, but you’ll need to show boating experience and meet safety requirements; many owners will still require or strongly recommend hiring a captain due to traffic, security zones, and currents. If you prefer to relax and focus on hosting, choose a captained charter.

Common pickup points include Liberty Landing Marina inside Liberty State Park on Audrey Zapp Drive, Newport Marina at 500 Washington Boulevard along the Hudson River, and the Marina at Liberty Harbor in the protected Morris Canal Basin. Some captains can arrange alternative pickups nearby when permitted—ask at booking.

Expect front‑row views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, Lower Manhattan’s skyline and One World Trade Center, Governors Island, the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, and the sweeping Hudson River waterfront of Jersey City and Hoboken. Sightseeing boats circle Liberty and Ellis for photos, but private vessels cannot dock at the islands; your captain will position you for great views while following harbor rules.

On New Jersey’s tidal waters like the Hudson River and New York Harbor, operators must hold a Boating Safety Certificate; the separate New Jersey “boat license” is only for non‑tidal inland waters. Visitors may operate with an equivalent out‑of‑state boating safety card or recognized NASBLA‑approved course proof. If you book a captained trip, you won’t need any license—your captain handles operation.

Yes—families are welcome. Every legal charter carries U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets for all guests, and New Jersey requires children 12 and under to wear a properly fitted life jacket while underway on open decks. Let your captain know the ages and sizes of any children in your group so kid‑size PFDs are ready when you arrive.

Most captains allow you to bring snacks, picnic foods, and drinks; many provide coolers and ice. Policies on alcohol vary by boat, but beer and wine are commonly allowed in moderation, while glass, hard liquor, red wine, or messy decorations may be restricted. Always check your listing’s “house rules,” and ask about catering or add‑ons if you want everything handled for you. The boat’s operator must remain sober.

Many owners are pet‑friendly with prior approval, especially for small, well‑behaved dogs. Expect basic rules like keeping pets leashed while boarding, bringing a pet life jacket if you have one, and possibly a cleaning fee. Confirm pet policies in advance and let your captain know so they can prepare safe spaces on deck.

Each listing sets its own cancellation terms, and weather calls are typically made by the captain for safety. If conditions are unsafe, most owners will offer to reschedule or issue a refund per their policy; if the forecast is safe but not perfectly sunny, standard policies still apply. Review the cancellation section on your listing before you book, and message the owner early if you need to adjust times due to weather.

Absolutely. Harbor cruises are a favorite for celebrations, with options from intimate sailboats to party‑ready yachts and larger inspected vessels. Note that many boats are limited to 6 passengers under federal rules, while inspected passenger boats can take more—so confirm your headcount early and secure weekend and sunset slots well in advance.

Peak season runs roughly May through September, with the warmest weather in July and August. Holiday weekends—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—book up fastest. Weekdays are usually calmer and easier to reserve, mornings tend to have lighter winds and smoother water, and sunset trips offer golden‑hour photos followed by skyline lights. Early spring and late fall cruises can be beautiful too—just dress in warm layers.

Yes—boats are a fantastic way to see big moments on the harbor. Jersey City hosts an annual July 4th waterfront festival with evening fireworks over the Hudson, and New York City’s Fleet Week in late May brings a Parade of Ships through the harbor. Security zones and heavy traffic apply on those dates, so expect earlier boarding times, longer trips, and premium pricing. If that’s your plan, book as early as possible and follow your captain’s guidance on timing and routes.