The Best Boat Rentals in Lake Mohave

Most day boats on Lake Mohave run about $500–$900 per day for self-operated pontoons and deck boats, while captained cruising pontoon charters often range from roughly $150–$300 per hour depending on boat size, day of week, and season. Performance wake and ski boats generally fall between $700–$1,200 per day. Half-day fishing charters commonly start around $500–$800 per trip or about $200–$250 per person. Multi-day houseboats on the Cottonwood Cove side typically average about $900–$1,700 per night in summer and closer to $600–$1,300 per night in spring and fall, with larger luxury models costing more. Standard inclusions are U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets, required safety gear, dock lines, and a basic orientation. Expect to pay extra for fuel, National Park Service entrance fees, captain services (if selected), add-ons like floats or water toys where allowed, and any refundable security deposit specified in your booking.

The most requested options are spacious pontoons and tritoons for groups, deck boats and bowriders for cruising and cove hopping, wake/surf boats for watersports, compact fishing boats for chasing striped bass and smallmouth, and larger houseboats for overnight and multi-day trips. You’ll also find small jet boats and cuddy cabins for longer lake runs. Availability and features vary by pickup location and season, so filter by capacity and trip style when you inquire.

You can do either. Captained charters are the most hands-off option—your skipper handles navigation, anchoring, and docking so your group can relax. If you prefer to drive, self-operated rentals are available; operators must be 18+ (often 21+ for some boats), present a valid government ID, and meet any state education requirements for the waters you’ll operate on. On the Nevada side of Lake Mohave, boaters born on or after January 1, 1983 must carry a boater education card to operate a motorboat over 15 hp; Arizona does not mandate a boater card for adults, but training is strongly recommended. Many owners will verify experience during the handoff and may limit operations in high winds or after dark. If in doubt, choose a captain—it’s simpler for groups and events.

The three primary launch hubs are Katherine Landing Marina in Bullhead City, Arizona near Davis Dam; Cottonwood Cove Resort & Marina on the Nevada shoreline north of Laughlin; and Willow Beach Marina in the Black Canyon corridor at the north end of the lake. Some hosts also meet guests at nearby day-use launch points such as Princess Cove and Cabinsite Point when conditions allow. If you’re staying in Laughlin or Bullhead City, Katherine Landing is typically the closest; for houseboats and wide-open basins, Cottonwood Cove is a favorite; and for scenic canyon runs, Willow Beach is ideal.

Expect desert panoramas with rugged volcanic cliffs, sapphire water, and long sandy coves perfect for swimming. From the south end you can cruise past Davis Dam and the Laughlin skyline, then slip into coves like Princess Cove and the Telephone Coves for protected beaches. Farther north, the Black Canyon section features sheer rock walls, an emerald-colored cave, and occasional waterfalls and springs after wet periods. Wildlife sightings are common—desert bighorn sheep on the ridges and, in winter, bald eagles and other raptors—so keep a camera handy and give animals plenty of space.

Requirements depend on where you operate. In Nevada waters, anyone born on or after January 1, 1983 must carry a boater education card to run a motorboat greater than 15 horsepower. Arizona does not require a boater education card for adults, though many renters complete a course for safety and insurance benefits. All operators should bring a valid photo ID, and your rental agreement will outline age limits and any deposit. If you book a captained charter, you don’t need a card—the licensed captain handles the vessel.

Yes—families are welcome. Every rental includes U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets, and children must have a properly sized jacket on board. Federal rules require children under 13 to wear a life jacket while a vessel is underway unless in an enclosed cabin; many captains ask all kids to wear them at all times on deck. The marinas at Katherine Landing, Cottonwood Cove, and Willow Beach also host life-jacket loaner stations if you need an extra size for shore time. Let your host know the ages and approximate weights of younger guests so they can stage the right sizes before you arrive.

Bringing snacks, picnic fare, and drinks is encouraged, and many boats have built-in coolers or space for your own. Lake Mead National Recreation Area prohibits glass and Styrofoam anywhere in the park, including beaches, so pack beverages in cans or plastic and use hard-sided or reusable coolers. Policies on alcohol vary by owner and captain; moderate BYO for 21+ guests is usually fine, but the designated operator must remain sober. To keep upholstery pristine, some hosts restrict red wine or strongly colored mixers—check your booking details.

Many listings are dog-friendly, and houseboats commonly allow pets with a modest cleaning fee. On shore, pets must remain leashed (6 feet or shorter) within Lake Mead National Recreation Area and should never be left in vehicles due to extreme heat. Bring a nonslip mat, a shaded spot, and plenty of fresh water for paws and hydration. Pet-friendly beach stops near Katherine Landing include Princess Cove and the Telephone Coves; always confirm your specific boat’s pet policy before booking.

Lake Mohave is in the Mojave Desert, so plan for hot, dry summers, pleasant spring and fall, and cool winter mornings. Afternoon winds are common, especially in late spring and summer, and monsoon thunderstorms can develop from roughly July through September. If high winds or lightning make boating unsafe, most owners will reschedule or refund per the listing’s policy. For the smoothest water and easier beach anchoring, choose a morning departure and keep an eye on forecasts the day before your trip.

Absolutely. Pontoons and tritoons are ideal for celebrations of 8–15 guests, and larger groups often split between multiple boats or book a houseboat as a floating home base. Captains can suggest calm coves for swimming, help time a golden-hour cruise near Davis Dam, and advise on simple décor that won’t blow away. Share your headcount, preferred pickup (Katherine Landing, Cottonwood Cove, or Willow Beach), and any special requests in your inquiry so your host can tailor the plan.

For comfort and easier availability, March–May and September–October are the sweet spots. Summer (June–August) is popular for lake days but brings intense heat; book mornings, aim for shaded boats, and plan swim stops. Major boating holidays—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—are the busiest weekends on the water, so reserve well in advance and expect crowds at ramps. Weekdays are noticeably calmer than weekends, and sunrise or early-morning departures usually deliver the lightest winds and the most open beach coves.

For classic sandy coves and quick access from Laughlin or Bullhead City, start at Katherine Landing and visit Princess Cove or the Telephone Coves. For houseboat trips and wide basins with long beach lines, begin at Cottonwood Cove on the Nevada shore. For dramatic canyon walls and emerald-toned water, launch from Willow Beach and cruise the Black Canyon section; small powerboats can visit the emerald cave area and enjoy wildlife viewing when conditions are calm. Your captain or host will help you pick the best route for the day’s wind and your group’s vibe.

Yes—if you’re after striking scenery in a shorter outing, a small powerboat run from Willow Beach into Black Canyon is a standout. The emerald-lit cave is best when the sun is high enough to illuminate the water (typically mid to late morning), and the canyon’s sheer walls make for great photos even on breezier days. Go early for easier parking and lighter winds, keep an eye out for bighorn sheep on the cliffs, and avoid crowding wildlife or other visitors near tight coves.