No boat–no problem! There are dozens of lakeside rental opportunities throughout the Ozarks. With plenty of boats and easy accessibility, anyone can rent a boat and spend a day on the lake.

Heads up: This page contains affiliate links. That means if you click and buy—we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Read more about it here.

If you’ve never been, you’ll quickly find that there is a subculture of boating enthusiasts gathering on the water.

The only question is–what kind of boat are you looking for?

Choosing the Right Type of Boat

There are three main kinds of boats designed for the lake. The first is a bass fishing boat designed with a small seating capacity for 2-3 people and powered by a small motor designed for trolling the lake until you find a fishing spot to drop an anchor.

The second type of boat is a pontoon or tritoon boat. These larger vessels are known for their floats and large decks that can accommodate a larger group. Most often, you’ll be heading out on the water with a group. A pontoon or tritoon can accommodate a group of 8-14 people (or sometimes more).

The third type of boat is a speed boat. These vessels are designed for water sports like skiing and are generally large enough to accommodate 4-5 people.

How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Boat?

At first glance, boat rentals can leave you with sticker shock–especially when market pricing is up due to seasonal demand.

Every provider is different, but half-day and full-day rental options are the most common. Pricing can vary between $200-$1000 depending on factors like:

• Size of Boat
• Popularity of Location
• Seasonal Demand
• Length of Rental
• Services Offered

What Kind of Experience Do You Need to Rent a Boat?

The great news is that boat rentals require minimal–if any experience at all. If you’ve never been on a boat, consider chartering your first excursion. A charter is when the boat comes with a captain hired for the duration of the rental. The captain is often the owner or a hired hand with significant boating experience. They will take care of operating the boat while you enjoy fun on the water.

But if you would rather go out alone, most boat rental places do not require prior experience so long as you have taken a boating safety course or obtained any required licenses. For example, in Missouri, boaters born after 1984 are required to obtain licensing which includes a boating safety course (this can be completed online) and drivers must be 18+. Alternatively, you may be able to get a temporary week-long permit at certain rental locations for a small fee.

In Arkansas, a boating safety course and licensure is required for anyone born after January 1, 1986 and of legal age to operate a boat. In Oklahoma, boat operators over the age of 15 don’t need a license, but those between the ages of 12-15 will need to complete an appropriate boater safety certification course.

What to Expect When You Spend a Day on a Boat

A day on the water can be a lot of fun, but if you’re not prepared–it can also be a little uncomfortable. First and foremost, you’ll want to hydrate well before spending the day on the water and you’ll need to pack a lot of bottled drinking water to maintain proper hydration throughout the day.

Second, even though you’re in a boat–you’re on the water. Expect to get wet. Dress in loose-fitting comfortable clothing and swimwear, ideally in layers that can be added or removed as needed. Also, you will want to bring a towel (or two) and a change of clothes. Even if you don’t plan to get in the water, you might change your mind–or someone might change it for you 😉

Check the forecast before heading out and keep your eye on the weather if there are any storms in the forecast. Don’t hesitate to turn back towards the marina if rain comes your way–you don’t want to be on a large body of water in a lightning storm.

You’ll need proper flotation devices for everyone on board–even if you know how to swim. And if your passengers are 15 years of age or younger, it’s typically required by law to wear safety vests at all times. Check with the venue about whether they provide life jackets and what sizes are available so you can prepare ahead to get comfy gear.

Bring plenty of sunscreen and reapply often.

Finally, although popular, alcohol and boating don’t mix well. It’s easy to overdo all of it when you are soaking up the sun outdoors and enjoying beverages. Don’t forget that safety is your number one priority to prevent boating accidents.

What Can You Do [For Fun] on a Boat

So, what is the allure to days of fun in the sun spent on the water? We’ll give you a hint–there’s more to do than float in a boat. Before you head out, know what your options are so that you can pack the right gear.

• Fishing (freshwater lakes are a good place to catch trout, bass, and catfish.)
• Wakeboarding (skiing on a board using a tow rope pulled by the boat)
• Water Skiing
• Tow Toys & Tubes
• Swimming
• Lily Pad Floats
• Scuba Diving

Are You Ready to Book a Boat Rental? Consider These Destinations in the Ozarks

Renting a boat might be the thing that your summer family vacation needs this year. It provides a built-in day of fun with an immersion into a completely different world–one that might ignite a new love of the outdoors for your family.

For a good selection of boat rentals, consider booking your Ozarks family vacation in one of these locations:

• Lake of the Ozarks (Missouri)
• Bull Shoals Lake (Missouri, Arkansas)
• Beaver Lake (Arkansas)
• Lake Tenkiller (Oklahoma)
• Table Rock Lake (Missouri, Arkansas)

While you’re making your plans, don’t forget to check rates at Economy Bookings (car rental) and Trip.com (hotels) for deals on accommodations!