Our Top 5 Favorite Lake Winnipesaukee Boat Rentals

Spring’s here, and there’s no better time to hit the water and go boating! With countless islands and hidden coves to explore that the land lubbers don’t get to, boating in Lake Winnipesaukee is one of our go-to activities, especially on a warmer day.

Whether you want to charter a boat with a captain or you have a valid NASBLA-approved boating license and want to do your own thing, the folks at these five Lake Winnipesaukee boat rentals can sort you out. 

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Best Winnepesakee Boat Rentals

Exploring Lake Winnipesaukee by boat is one of the best ways to take in its stunning scenery, hidden coves, and endless adventure opportunities. Whether you're looking for a relaxing cruise, a fishing trip, or an adrenaline-filled day of watersports, there are plenty of rental options to suit your needs. Below, we’ve rounded up the top boat rental companies on Lake Winnipesaukee to help you find the perfect vessel for your day on the water.

1. Fay’s Boat Yard 

FBY is a family-run business in Gilford that has been serving Lake Winnipesaukee for over 100 years. They have several boats for rent, which include a 25-hp, 18-foot pontoon that accommodates five people and doesn’t require a boat license. 

FBY also provides kayak and canoe rental, which costs $75 and $30, respectively, for half a day, and $150 and $60 for a full day. In addition to boat rentals, they also offer an extensive range of boat maintenance and repair services. 

Contact: (603) 293-0700

2. Winni Marine

Located in Laconia, Winni Marine has the largest rental fleet in New Hampshire, with over 35 well-maintained boats for you to choose from. You’ll need to be above 21 and have a NASBLA-approved boating license for any craft above 25 hp, but if you don’t have one, you can easily take one online on their website ahead of your rental day. 

There’ll be plenty of options with these guys, but just be sure to take note of their rental policies here. 

Contact: (603) 366-4801

3. North Water Marine 

Also located in Laconia, North Water Marine has a fleet of pontoon boats for rent, and if you want, Captain Tim is also ready to take you out on a charter. They offer delivery and pickup at your chosen location, and discounts are available for longer bookings. 

If you’ve got four-legged friends, they are also welcome on board. All their boats are equipped with GPS, a backup paper chart, and all safety equipment. 

Contact: (603) 366-4811 ext. 101

4. Wake Winni Watersports

If you want a more dramatic adrenalin rush than what a boat ride can deliver, then the folks at Wake Winni can help with all kinds of fun stuff like wakesurfing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, and tubing. 

Of course, they also rent out some boats, including a 2022 Moomba Mojo, a Super Air Natique GS22, and a Performance Tri-toon. These crafts are available to experienced boaters with a NASBLA-approved boating license only, or you can opt for a captained charter instead. 

With special discounts and package prices, Wake Winni is often the highlight of many a bachelor or bachelorette party. 

Contact: (603) 210-4242

5. Tiki Hut Boats 

Tiki Hut Boats in Laconia has several types of chartered cruise packages. There’s the Big Kahuna that holds up to 27 people, a 90-minute cruise for up to 16 people, Reggae Night, a Fireworks Cruise, and a two-hour BYOB private charter. 

They have a strict schedule and are notoriously punctual, so don’t be late, or you’ll be sacrificing some valuable cruising time. This outfit is popular with party-goers whose day typically involves alcohol! 

Contact: (603) 960-4991

Safety Precautions on Lake Winnipesaukee

You might already know these, but here are some gentle reminders! 

1. Always wear a lifejacket 
2. Check the weather forecast
3. Obey no-go zones and pay close attention near docks or swimming areas 
4. Be extra careful in shallow waters and high traffic areas 
5. Maintain a safe speed
6. Never boat under the influence. It carries the same penalties as a DUI. 
7. Pay attention to red and black marker buoys, which denote hazards, and red and green channel markers to help with navigation.

Final Thoughts 

There ya go. Plenty of options for boat rentals in Lake Winnipesaukee, so pick whatever errr….floats your boat.

We know it’s your vacation, and it’s time to let your hair down, but observe the safety policies of your rental agency and drink responsibly.

Have fun, and see you out on the water! 

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