Disney Boat Rentals | A Disney World Must-Do
Disney Boat Rentals are one of the most unique and fun things to do at Walt Disney World, and it may surprise you to learn just how affordable they are. I would recommend it even if your Disney budget is tight. You can have hours of fun for one (shockingly low) price!
Renting a pontoon boat has become one of our must-do Disney bucket list activities. It’s a relaxing way to spend a few hours, escape the crowded Disney parks, and cruise around Bay Lake, enjoying up-close views of Magic Kingdom and Disney resorts like Grand Floridian and Wilderness Lodge.
Continue reading to learn which resort marinas you can rent from, pricing, and more. Be sure to add this to your next Disney itinerary and check out all of our Disney trip planning tips!
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 offers. 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.
You don’t have to be on a Disney vacation to do this. If you live in the Orlando area, you can get into any of the resort marinas as long as you have a restaurant reservation. For more information on parking at the resorts or on Disney property in general, we wrote an entire post on parking at Disney World that we try to keep up to date. That said, the rules are constantly changing and not consistently enforced by cast members.
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. I think this is perfect for anyone. Adults can bring a picnic and enjoy a relaxing, romantic boat ride, and if you’re going on a family trip, kids will love it. These boats can hold up to 10 guests, so if you’re traveling with adult family members or friends with kids, you can split the cost. 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.
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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 Do Disney Boat Rentals Cost?
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 and a pool table right outside.
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 posted or enforced. That said, 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.
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 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.
