The Best Boat Rentals in Rockwall

On Lake Ray Hubbard, most pontoon and tritoon rentals run about $90–$150 per hour, bowriders and deck boats are often $80–$130 per hour, and wake or surf boats with a captain usually fall in the $150–$250 per hour range. Small motor yachts on the lake can start around $300–$500 per hour, while jet skis generally range from $70–$150 per hour. Many listings include standard safety gear and basic fuel for relaxed cruising; extras like tubes, wakeboards, floats, or a pro captain are typically add-ons. Taxes and cleaning fees may be separate, and some owners offer discounted half-day and full-day rates.

You’ll find comfortable pontoons and tritoons for lounging, bowriders and deck boats for cruising and swimming stops, wake and surf boats for tow sports, jet boats and jet skis for speed, and a handful of motor yachts for celebrations. Availability changes with the season and demand, so if you have a specific style in mind, it’s smart to book early for peak weekends.

Choose a captained trip if you want a stress-free day where the skipper handles navigation, docking, and all the local know-how—great for celebrations or first-time boaters. Self-operated rentals suit confident boaters who meet Texas requirements and prefer full control of the itinerary. If your group plans to enjoy adult beverages, a captained charter keeps things simple and safe.

Most trips meet at marinas and public ramps on Lake Ray Hubbard. Common pickup points include Chandler’s Landing Marina in Rockwall, Harbor Bay Marina near Ridge Road, and Captain’s Cove Marina on the west side of the lake. Public ramps frequently used for meetups include the State Highway 66 Boat Ramp in Rockwall and Terry Park in Heath. Your exact meeting spot will be confirmed in your booking details, along with parking instructions.

Expect broad lake views with big-sky sunsets, the Scott Self Lighthouse at The Harbor, and long bridge spans like I‑30 and SH‑66 crossing the water. You’ll cruise past lakeside neighborhoods, the waterfront promenade at The Harbor, and open coves where you can swim. On clear evenings, you can often catch a distant glow of the Dallas skyline from parts of the lake, plus frequent sightings of herons, egrets, and gulls.

Texas requires boater education for anyone born on or after September 1, 1993, to operate a boat with more than 15 horsepower or a sailboat over 14 feet. Operators must carry photo ID and proof of course completion. The minimum age to operate alone is 13 with boater education; otherwise, a qualified adult must be on board. If you’d rather skip the requirements or focus on hosting, book a captained charter.

Yes. Most boats welcome families and supply U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets. Texas law requires children under 13 to wear a life jacket while a boat under 26 feet is underway, so be sure to share each child’s age and weight when booking to ensure proper sizes are on board. If you’re bringing infants or toddlers, confirm age policies in advance and ask about shaded seating.

Most owners allow you to bring snacks, picnic spreads, and canned or boxed beverages. Glass is often discouraged or not allowed, and hard coolers should have smooth bottoms to protect seats. If your trip includes alcohol, designate a sober operator or choose a captained charter. For convenient pickup meals, The Harbor area by the lighthouse has multiple restaurants close to common boarding points.

Pet policies vary by owner, but many hosts allow well-behaved dogs with pre-approval and sometimes a small cleaning fee. Plan to bring a towel, water bowl, and a leash for docks. If your dog has sensitive paws, consider booties to protect upholstery and non-slip decks.

North Texas can see pop-up thunderstorms in spring and early summer, and breezy afternoons can make the lake choppy. If unsafe weather is forecast, most captains will reschedule or refund according to the listing’s policy. Mornings are typically calmer and cooler in summer, and May through July tend to be the wettest months, so keep an eye on the forecast and consider morning or sunset slots for smoother water.

Absolutely. Pontoons and deck boats are perfect for 8–12 guests, while larger captained boats and yachts work well for bigger groups. Many hosts allow tasteful decorations and playlist hookups. To keep the day seamless, finalize your guest count early, confirm your meetup point near The Harbor or a marina, and pre-order food for an easy handoff before boarding.

Peak season runs from late May through early September, with Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day bringing the most traffic and highest demand. Thursdays from May through July add extra boats near The Harbor during the free evening concert series, which is a fun scene but busier on the water. For value and smoother rides, choose weekdays over weekends and morning or sunset departures over midday heat.

Yes. The free Concert by the Lake series typically runs Thursday evenings in May, June, and July at The Harbor amphitheater, and many locals listen from anchored boats near the lighthouse. Arrive early to find a comfortable spot at idle speed, bring navigation lights for the ride home after dark, and expect a slow, courteous exit as the flotilla disperses. Captained trips are the easiest option if you want to enjoy the show without worrying about driving, anchoring, or nighttime navigation.