The Best Boat Rentals Near Olympia

Expect most small powerboats and pontoons around Olympia to run about $125–$200 per hour, with half-day outings commonly $500–$800. Private sightseeing charters and mid-size cruisers are often $150–$300 per hour, while premium or specialty tours can range $300–$500 per hour depending on duration and onboard amenities. Prices usually include safety gear and basic cleaning; captained trips include the skipper’s time and fuel or a clear fuel policy. Taxes, marina pick-up fees, and gratuity are usually extra. On Getmyboat, you’ll see the exact inclusions, any minimums (often 2–4 hours), and add-ons like water toys or coolers spelled out on each listing.

You’ll find comfortable pontoons for relaxed cruising, versatile powerboats and cabin cruisers for sightseeing in Budd Inlet and Dana Passage, classic sailboats for a breezy afternoon under canvas, and small yachts for private group celebrations. Many listings offer captained charters, and some allow qualified renters to self-operate smaller motorboats. If you have a specific vibe in mind—quiet wildlife viewing, family-friendly cruising, or a celebratory sunset ride—filter by boat type and features to match your plan.

Both options exist. Captained charters are the easiest—your licensed skipper handles navigation, docking, and local routes. If you’d like to drive, Washington requires a boater education card to operate motorboats of 15 hp or more if you were born after January 1, 1955. Visitors with an equivalent card from another state are generally recognized, and many rental operators can issue a short-term safety checklist permit for the day. If you prefer zero hassle, choose “Captained” when you inquire and the captain will handle the rest.

Most pick-ups happen right on the downtown waterfront or nearby. Popular departure points include Swantown Marina & Boatworks on Marine Drive NE, the Port Plaza guest dock by the Farmers Market, Percival Landing at the south end of Budd Inlet, and Boston Harbor Marina a few miles north of downtown. Some private charters also stage from West Bay Marina. Your exact meeting spot is always confirmed in your Getmyboat messages before the trip.

From Budd Inlet you’ll get postcard views of the Washington State Capitol dome, working waterfront scenes, and, on clear days, Mount Rainier and the Olympic Mountains. Cruising north toward Boston Harbor opens up Dana Passage with chances to spot harbor seals, porpoises, bald eagles, and seasonal seabirds. Many captains also point out nearby inlets and marine parks like Hope Island in the South Sound and the protected waters around Nisqually Reach, which are known for rich wildlife.

In Washington, operators of motorboats 15 hp and up must carry a boater education card if born after January 1, 1955. Out-of-state visitors can typically use a NASBLA-approved card from home. If you’re renting without a captain and don’t have a card, many local operators can qualify you with a state-approved safety checklist and issue a temporary permit for your rental period. None of this applies if you book a captained charter—the skipper is in charge of the vessel.

Yes—families are welcome on most listings, and every boat carries U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets in a range of sizes. Washington law requires children 12 and under to wear a life jacket when a smaller open boat is underway, and your captain or owner will help ensure a proper fit before departure. If you’re bringing infants or toddlers, mention ages and weights in your inquiry so the right sizes are ready at boarding.

Most hosts encourage you to bring snacks, picnic fare, and non-staining beverages. Many boats have coolers or small galleys; check the listing for details. Alcohol policies vary by owner, but in general passengers may drink while the designated operator remains sober—boating under the influence laws are enforced in Washington. To keep decks clean and safe, avoid glass and red wine unless the owner confirms it’s okay.

Many boats are dog-friendly with advance approval, especially for calm-natured pups under control. Let the owner know your dog’s size and bring a non-slip mat, towel, and a canine life jacket if you have one. If your outing includes going ashore, note that some nearby marine state parks—such as Hope Island in Mason County—do not allow dogs on land to protect wildlife, so plan to remain aboard during those stops.

Olympia’s boating season runs through spring, summer, and early fall, but weather can change quickly on the South Sound. Light rain usually isn’t an issue; wind, chop, fog, or small craft advisories can be. Captains monitor marine forecasts and may adjust routes for comfort or reschedule if conditions are unsafe. Each listing outlines its weather and cancellation policy, and most will offer a new date or a refund if your trip can’t run safely.

June through September offers the warmest, driest weather and the smoothest planning. Major boating holidays—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—book up early, and Labor Day weekend often coincides with Olympia Harbor Days on the downtown waterfront. Weekdays and morning departures are calmer and more flexible, while weekend afternoons see more traffic and slightly choppier water. For wildlife viewing and photography, golden-hour cruises near sunset are especially scenic.

Absolutely. Private captained charters make celebrations easy: you pick the timeframe and vibe, and your skipper suggests a comfortable route in Budd Inlet or up toward Boston Harbor. Share your headcount, preferred music, décor plans, and any catering needs in your inquiry. Many boats allow cakes, decorations with painter’s tape, and custom playlists—just confirm space for coolers and any special set-up time at the dock.

Two favorites are a wildlife-and-scenery loop from downtown to Boston Harbor and Dana Passage, and a day trip to the quiet beaches of Hope Island (boat-in only) for a picnic aboard. If you’re visiting on Labor Day weekend, the Olympia Harbor Days festival brings historic tugboats, harbor cruises, and races to the waterfront—fun to watch from the water, but plan ahead because docks and moorage can be busy.