The Best Boat Rentals in Lake Lanier

Most pontoon and tritoon rentals run about $80–$150 per hour, wake and surf boats are commonly $150–$250 per hour, and small cruiser yachts with a captain are often $175–$300 per hour. Full-day pricing usually falls between $600 and $1,600 depending on boat size, season, and weekend or holiday demand. Your rate typically includes required life jackets, lines, an anchor, and a Bimini or cockpit shade; some owners include a tube or float mat, while fuel and cleaning are often extra. Captained charters usually bundle the captain’s fee in the total, and security deposits vary by listing.

You’ll find a wide mix tailored to Lake Lanier days: roomy pontoons and tritoons for relaxing and cove-hopping, bowriders and deck boats for cruising and tubing, wake and surf boats outfitted with ballast and towers, personal watercraft for zipping around, and a selection of cruiser yachts or even party‑style double‑deck boats for celebrations. Sailboats are available in limited numbers; availability changes with season and demand.

If you want a stress‑free outing—especially for a celebration or when lake traffic is heavy—a captained charter is the easiest path. Your captain handles docking, routing to calm coves, and safety so you can focus on your group. Confident boaters who meet Georgia’s operator requirements can book a self‑operated rental, but on busy weekends and holidays many planners still choose a captain to simplify logistics and reduce risk.

Common pickup spots include Harbor Landing at Margaritaville on Lanier Islands in Buford, Holiday Marina near the south end, Safe Harbor Aqualand in Flowery Branch, Port Royale Marina in Gainesville, and Bald Ridge Marina in Cumming. Gainesville Marina on the north side is also a frequent meeting point. Your host will confirm the exact dock and may adjust departure if a public ramp or park has a temporary closure.

Expect a mix of island-dotted scenery and lively waterfront stops. Many outings cruise past Lanier Islands and the beach scene at LandShark Landing, the striking Buford Dam area, and the Lake Lanier Olympic Park with its 1996 Games timing tower. You can anchor in quiet coves for swimming, idle along the wooded shoreline, or pull up to lakeside eateries like Pig Tales at Aqualand, Pelican Pete’s at Port Royale, or Skogie’s at Gainesville Marina.

In Georgia, anyone 16 or older who was born on or after January 1, 1998 must complete a Georgia DNR‑approved boating safety course to operate a motorized vessel. Valid government ID must be on board. If you book a captained rental, no license is required because your licensed captain operates the boat. Children under 13 must wear a U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket while the boat is underway.

Yes—families are welcome. Rentals include U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets for all guests, and Georgia law requires children under 13 to wear one whenever the boat is moving. If you need infant or child‑sized PFDs, request them in advance to ensure the right fit. Before departure, your captain or owner will cover basic safety, seating, and how to use the ladder and swim platform.

Most owners allow you to bring snacks, picnic spreads, and coolers with ice. Many boats include a cooler; some offer catering or can recommend dock‑and‑dine spots. Alcohol is typically allowed for guests 21+, but the operator must remain sober—boating under the influence is illegal in Georgia. Glass containers and red wine may be restricted to protect decks; check your listing’s rules.

Many boats are dog‑friendly with prior approval. Plan to bring a towel, a leash for marinas, and cleanup bags, and consider a canine life jacket for swimming coves. Some owners may limit pet size or charge a modest cleaning fee; confirm details when you book.

Summer afternoons can bring quick thunderstorms and gusty winds, while mornings are usually smoother. If unsafe weather is forecast, most owners offer to adjust your start time, reschedule, or cancel per the policy you select at checkout. Lake access points can also change due to park or ramp updates; your host will confirm the best pickup spot the day before.

Absolutely—Lake Lanier is popular for celebrations. Captained cruisers, double‑deck party pontoons, and tritoons with plenty of seating make hosting simple. Share your headcount, preferred vibe (swim coves, bar stops, or a sunset cruise), and any add‑ons like a floating mat or towable tube. For a smooth day, plan rideshare or designated drivers, bring playlists and decorations that secure easily, and choose a central pickup like Lanier Islands or Port Royale for easy parking.

Peak season runs May through September, with the warmest water from June to early September. Memorial Day, July 4, and Labor Day weekends are the busiest and book out early. A standout local event is the Atlanta Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival at Lake Lanier Olympic Park in early September, which draws crowds on and off the water. For lighter traffic and better rates, target weekdays, spring and fall shoulder months, or mornings and golden‑hour sunset cruises.

Yes—many groups head to “Cocktail Cove” near Lanier Islands and other no‑wake coves to raft up and swim. Your captain or owner can suggest a spot that matches your vibe and the day’s wind and boat traffic. Practice good etiquette by keeping music at a courteous level, staying clear of channels, and using lines and fenders when tying up with other boats.