The Best Boat Rentals in Maine

Expect small powerboats and pontoons on lakes to run roughly $250–$600 for a full day or about $75–$150 per hour, private sailing trips to land around $125–$300 per hour, sightseeing on classic downeast or lobster-style powerboats to be about $150–$250 per hour, nearshore fishing charters to range from about $500–$1,200 for a half day, and larger motor yachts for celebrations to start around $300–$700 per hour with half-day totals commonly $1,200–$2,500 and full days $2,000–$4,000. Most captained trips include the licensed captain, required safety gear, and basic fuel for local cruising, while add-ons like catering, special docking, premium fuel surcharges, and gratuity are typically extra. Prices vary by boat size, season, and exact pickup point, so it’s smart to confirm the final total and inclusions in your booking message.

You’ll find a wide mix suited to Maine’s coast and lakes, including comfortable pontoons for lake days, center consoles and downeast lobster-style boats for sightseeing and nearshore fishing, classic and modern sailboats for 2–6 hour sails, and larger motor yachts for birthdays and special occasions. Many trips are private so your group has the boat to yourselves, and you can choose either captained or self-operated options depending on your experience and the waterway.

Maine requires anyone born on or after January 1, 1999 to complete an approved boater safety course to operate a motorboat over 25 horsepower on inland or coastal waters. If you’re just renting for a short period, many rental agents can administer a brief, temporary course that allows you to operate their boat for the duration of the agreement, typically up to 14 days. Personal watercraft have additional age rules. If you prefer to skip requirements and local navigation, book a captained charter and let a licensed skipper handle the helm.

Popular coastal departure areas include Portland’s Old Port along Commercial Street with pickups near Long Wharf and the Maine State Pier, Bar Harbor’s waterfront piers and hotel docks around Frenchman Bay, Boothbay Harbor’s town landing and public floats, Camden’s Public Landing on Penobscot Bay, Rockland’s Harbor Park, and the Kennebunk River near Dock Square in Kennebunkport. Inland, lake outings often depart from marinas and public ramps on Sebago Lake and other major lakes. Your captain will confirm the exact meeting point and parking tips once you book.

Maine’s shoreline is famed for island-dotted bays, granite headlands, and postcard lighthouses. Around Portland you may cruise past Fort Gorges, the Portland Breakwater Light (Bug Light), Spring Point Ledge Light, Ram Island Ledge Light, and the Casco Bay islands like Peaks and Great Diamond. In MidCoast waters, sights often include the Camden Hills, Rockland Breakwater Light, and schooners under sail. Near Bar Harbor, expect views of Acadia’s cliffs, the Porcupine Islands, and lighthouse beacons like Egg Rock. Wildlife is common: harbor seals, porpoises, seabirds, and in summer, occasional whales farther offshore.

For coastal cruising, most planners opt for a captained trip because local tides, lobster gear, fog, and rocky ledges reward local knowledge. Captains handle navigation and docking so your group can relax. Confident boaters sometimes self-operate on Maine’s lakes or protected rivers where conditions are simpler. If you plan to drive yourself, check horsepower and age requirements, ask about the temporary renter course, and choose a boat and route that match your experience and the day’s marine forecast.

Yes. Family outings are common, and every boat carries U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets for all passengers. In Maine, children 10 and under must wear a life jacket while on board, so be sure to request the right sizes when you book. Captains will give a quick safety briefing at the dock, and many can recommend calmer routes and earlier departures that are smoother for little ones.

Most private charters welcome snacks, picnic boards, and beverages, and many provide a cooler with ice or space for your own. Glass rules vary by boat; cans and reusable bottles are usually easier underway. If you plan to serve a cake or set up decorations for a celebration, mention it in the inquiry so the crew can advise on what fits the deck layout. The boat operator must remain sober; keep celebrations friendly and the deck clear of clutter for safety.

Pet policies are set by each owner. Some skippers happily host well-behaved dogs, especially on open-deck boats, while others prefer no pets. If your pup is joining, bring a fitted pet PFD, a short leash, a non-slip mat, and fresh water. Wildlife is protected along the Maine coast, so you’ll be asked to keep dogs secured and off sensitive ledges and islands.

Summer brings beautiful cruising, but Maine is known for morning fog, cool seabreezes, and the occasional front. Captains watch the marine forecast and will reschedule or cancel if conditions are unsafe. If the operator calls off a trip for weather, you can typically choose a new time or receive a refund according to the listing’s policy. Dress in layers even on sunny days, pack a windbreaker, and consider earlier departures for calmer seas.

Absolutely. Many captained boats are set up for small groups with cushioned seating, a covered area, and a Bluetooth speaker. Two- to three-hour scenic cruises are ideal for toasts and photos around lighthouses, while half-day charters allow time for an island stop or swimming on warmer lake days. Share your headcount, vibe, and any special touches—like a cake or color scheme—so your captain can recommend the best boat and route.

Peak boating season runs June through September, with warmest weather and the longest days. Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day weekends are the busiest on the water and at the docks, so book early and build in extra time for parking. Notable summer events can also spike demand and traffic, including Boothbay Harbor’s Windjammer Days in late June, the Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland the first week of August, the Maine Boat & Home Show in Rockland August 8–10, 2025, and Camden’s Windjammer Festival on Labor Day weekend. For smoother seas and easier parking, choose weekday mornings or sunset cruises; May and October offer quieter but cooler conditions with foliage views in early fall.

Morning sailings and midafternoon lake outings are popular for calm conditions, while golden-hour and sunset cruises are favorites for photos. A classic scenic charter is two to three hours, which comfortably fits lighthouse loops and island views. Half days are great if you want time to anchor for a swim on warmer lake days or linger near wildlife. If you’re coordinating guests and catering, allow a 15–30 minute buffer before departure for parking, waivers, and boarding.

Yes. Casco Bay island-hopping from Portland—think Peaks, Great Diamond, or Chebeague—makes for a relaxed day of coves and cottages. On Mount Desert Island, a cruise into Somes Sound shows off Acadia’s fjord-like scenery. MidCoast lighthouse routes near Camden and Rockland are stunning, especially along the breakwater. Wildlife lovers should target summer for the best chance at seals, porpoises, seabirds, and, on longer offshore runs, seasonal whale sightings. Ask your captain which route fits your group, the tides, and the day’s forecast.