Eight Tips for Renting a Boat

There are many opportunities in the Tri-Lakes to enjoy boating and ensure great days on the water.

July 4, 2022

12:00 AM

Jeffrey Eisen

Many marinas and even resorts provide boat rental options.

Whether you’re thinking about getting into boating or just want to explore the area a little more during a vacation, there are many advantages of renting a boat. It provides the chance to enjoy carefree time on the water and is a great way to spend time with friends and family.

Renting a boat is also the ideal way to try a particular style of model, and even new activities for minimal cost. Rates can range from approximately $250 and upwards of $500-plus (depending on the boat type and duration), which is a fraction of the cost of ownership and seasonal operating costs. In addition to the number of reasons and benefits of renting a boat, here are eight tips to consider to practically guarantee lasting memories in the Tri-Lake region.

1. How to Find a Boat Rental Company

A number of boat rental options are available throughout the region and the first step - even before your trip - is to do an online search for a rental company through the local chamber of commerce, tourism offices, marinas and even resorts that are all found in the communities of Penticton, Kelowna and Vernon.

Luke Bender

A variety of models are available to enjoy the pastime of your choice.

2. Determine the Model and Size of Boat

The size and type of boat to rent depend on the lake you want to cruise on, how many people are in your group, and the activities you want to enjoy. Most boat rental companies offer models that are suitable for the particular body of water whether you visit Skaha, Okanagan, Kalamalka or Wood lakes.

When considering a model, bowriders and deck boats are always a good bet for touring and many water activities. If you’re cruising with a large group, perhaps opt for a pontoon since they have expansive seating designs and a variety of comfortable features. Of course, fishing and wakeboard boat rentals are also available and very popular.

Basically, inform the boat rental company what it is you want to do and they’ll provide the best possible model for that application.

3. How to Get to and from the Boat

Depending on the marina or boat rental service, the model may be towed to your destination or most times, it will be moored in a slip at a marina or resort and ready to run.

Yamaha Motor Canada

Pontoons are also a great option that can accommodate your whole family.

4. What’s Included in the Rental Agreement?

Rental agreements vary and always read yours closely. Some boat rental companies limit how far you can travel from the port or launch ramp while others may not permit water sports like tubing or wakeboarding. They may also not allow boating at night.

Wear and tear are also common but you may be responsible for other damage. Plus, always check how weather-dictated cancellations are managed.

5. Insurance

Policies may also vary but the boat rental company’s liability coverage should be listed in the agreement. You often agree to and accept all responsibility for anything that happens regardless of the cause, including damage to the boat and engine. Be sure to read the fine print or even discuss the policy with your insurance agent.

6. Vessel Check

Before accepting the keys, examine the boat for scratches, dents, cracks in the windshield, stains, prop damage, and missing, broken or loose fittings - any component of the boat that you’d hate to have blamed on (or billed to) you. If find any existing damage, list it on the agreement before you sign.

Yamaha Motor Canada

From Penticton to Vernon, a number of rental companies are available in the Tri-Lakes region.

7. Are You Qualified to Drive a Boat?

In Canada, boat operators are required to have their Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC). If you don’t have yours, most rental companies will show you how to operate the boat and take you through a boating safety rental checklist that will act as a temporary PCOC.

8. Safety equipment

Boat rental companies usually provide all the mandatory safety equipment. Make sure you know where everything is located and that PFDs properly fit everyone on board. You can also always bring your own to ensure a proper fit.

Article courtesy of Discover Boating and for more information be sure to visit discoverboating.ca