Disney Boat Rentals are one of the most fun and unique things you can do at Walt Disney World, and it may surprise you to learn just how affordable they are. In fact, it’s so inexpensive that I would recommend it to anyone doing Disney on a tight budget. If you’re planning a Disney trip and searching for fresh ideas, you’ve landed on the right post!
Renting a pontoon boat is a wonderfully relaxing way to spend a few hours (or all day), escaping the crowded Disney parks, and cruising around Bay Lake with up close views of Magic Kingdom and Disney resorts like Grand Floridian and Wilderness Lodge.
Continue reading for all you need to know, including which resort marinas you can rent from and why we think this is a must-do at Disney World. Be sure to add this to your next Disney itinerary!
On our last trip in January 2025, my husband and I enjoyed several non-park days. We explored several Disney resorts, enjoying the unique theming, food, and activities each one has to offer. I wrote an entire post about resort hopping on the monorail loop. You can check out here if you’re interested. It’s such a fun way to spend the day, and I’m always shocked by how many people still don’t know about Disney boat rentals!
The entire process is incredibly simple. It is so simple, in fact, that I quickly realized the waterways are full of people driving expensive boats with little to no experience, like us, lol! Seriously, though, they hand you the keys, and you’re in control of a really big and expensive boat, even if you’ve never driven one in your life. However, they answer all of your questions, and water patrol is everywhere, should you need help.
Related: How To Have A Peaceful Vacation At Disney (and beyond)
Boat Rentals At Disney World
Renting a pontoon boat at Disney World is a truly unique way to spend a few hours. It’s thoroughly relaxing, and we prioritize relaxation on vacation. Depending on where you launch, you can enjoy views of the Magic Kingdom, Grand Floridian, Polynesian, and even Wilderness Lodge. So, let’s answer some commonly asked questions and discuss why this must-do Disney experience!
Quick Details
- The cost is $50 per half hour, excluding tax.
- Each pontoon boat holds up to 10 guests.
- Children under 12 must wear their life vests at all times.
- The top speed is 5 mph, so be prepared for a slow and relaxing ride.
- Boat rentals start at 11 AM. Arrive early for a better chance of getting one without waiting.
- Anyone 18 years of age and up can drive the boat; no prior experience is necessary.
- Water patrol is everywhere if you get in a jam. They literally appear out of nowhere lol.
- You can explore the Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon.
- Snacks and drinks are allowed on the boats, but no alcohol is permitted.
- You cannot make reservations. It’s first-come, first-served.
- Disney boat rentals are available to anyone, including those staying off-property.
Is This A Must-Do At Disney World?
While there is no shortage of things to do at Disney World, renting a boat isn’t something most people get to do every day. It’s different from the norm, affordable, and it’s a great way to escape the crowds and chaos. There aren’t many places at Disney World where you can do that, so yes, in my opinion, it’s an absolute must.
How Much Does It Cost To Rent A Boat At Disney World?
All the pontoon boat rentals at Disney World are Sun Trackers, which can accommodate up to 10 people. The rates start at $49 per half-hour and remain the same regardless of the number of people on board. At first, half an hour doesn’t seem like a long time, but we’ve never gone beyond an hour and a half, and that was after fully exploring both Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon, which brings me to my next point.
Related: Resort Hopping At Disney World On The Monorail Route
Where Can You Go On The Lake?
Leaving any of the Disney marinas that I’ve listed below, you will have access to Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. I was super excited that we were able to drive right up to Geiser Point at the Wilderness Lodge, pictured above. This is our favorite pool bar to hang out at. We love it so much that I’ve written an entire post about it here, if you’d like to check it out. Some areas on the lake are restricted, but they are clearly marked, and Disney Water Patrol is nearby should you need help. Even if you don’t see them, trust me, they are there, lol. My husband and I accidentally went the wrong way, and Water Patrol quickly appeared out of nowhere.
Which Disney Marina Is The Best One To Rent From?
Disney Boat Rentals are available at the marinas listed below. As for which one is the best, they are located at Disney Deluxe Resorts, so you really can’t go wrong. Whichever marina you choose, you can hang out and explore after your boat ride!
- Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
- Disney’s Beach Club Resort
- Disney’s Beach Club Villas
- Disney’s Contemporary Resort
- Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
- Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
- The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
The pictures in this post are from the marina at Contemporary Resort, which is our personal favorite, mainly because we look forward to lunch at Steakhouse 71 before or after our ride. The marina itself is enormous, featuring outdoor games like cornhole, as well as a pool table right outside.
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How Long Can You Stay Out?
As long as you want. You could spend the whole day out if you wish, although I wouldn’t encourage that, as there will likely be excited guests eagerly waiting their turn. I’ve never seen a time limit post or enforced. Having said that, if this activity becomes more popular in the future, it wouldn’t surprise me if they enforced a time limit to allow other guests to enjoy the experience as well.
Are Young Children Allowed On The Boats?
Yes. Motorized boat rentals at Disney World allow children of all ages to join in the fun! Children under the age of 12 are required to keep their life jackets on at all times. Honestly, why would you not do this anyway? At max speed, these boats top out at 5 MPH, so this is more of a leisurely (and safe) ride for guests of all ages.
I hope this post has encouraged you to explore Disney Boat Rentals and experience it for yourself. I have no doubt that it will become a Disney must-do for you, just as it is for us! For more information, check out Disney’s motorized boat rental information page.
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