How to Rent a Boat
Last Updated on November 3, 2023 by Boatsetter Team
Boat sharing is a modern concept within the boating rental sector, giving more individuals access to boating experiences and on the water travel. Using peer-to-peer (P2P) marketplaces, renters can browse for boats near them, or at a desired location, then request to rent boats directly from boat owners.
If you are preparing yourself to rent a boat for the first time, you may feel like you’re about to face a daunting process. Luckily for you the Boatsetter team has figured out how to make renting a boat quick, simple, and easy. Don’t believe it? Allow us to walk you through how to rent a boat.
Rent. List. Share—Only at Boatsetter
Browsing on Boatsetter’s boat rental marketplace
Through our P2P boat rental marketplace, those individuals or groups interested in boating can browse boats for rent from boat owners. This may be your chance to make that friend with a boat you’ve always wanted (wink, wink).
Searching is made easy, too! Simply enter your location, or the desired location, and in seconds you’ll see all boats near it! Thanks to tech, P2P boat rental marketplaces have also been able to implement some neat filter tools to make your search even easier. If you’re looking for the best boat rentals for a sunset cruise, use the ‘Cruise’ filter and voila! Other activities to filter for are Watersports, Fishing, Celebrating, and Sailing. You may also fitler by boat type, manufacturer, or category.
To complete a booking request you’ll need to create an account, but don’t worry it won’t cost a dime, and creating it takes only a few minutes. Once you find a boat rental you like, send the boat owner a booking request. You’ll get a notification once the boat owner confirms your booking.
If you didn’t think the boat renting process could get any easier, you should download the Boatsetter app (available through Apple Store and Google Play). With it, you’ll be able to save your favorite boats for future trips, keep track of upcoming trips, and, best of all, with the app downloaded and a vigilant eye on the marketplace, catch the best boat rentals near you.
Booking confirmed: Now what?
You’re going on a boat trip, how exciting! Make sure to review the confirmation and Onboard document. On it you should see your trip’s start and end date, where to meet the boat owner as well as any further instructions from the owner. If you want to edit your booking, follow the protocol for each scenario:
- Changing the trip date
- Adding a captain (Recommended for first timers)
- Cancelling a booking
Don’t be shy—if you have any questions about the boat or the meet-up location, message the boat owner. In the rare case, they are taking awhile to reply, email us at contact@boatsetter.com and we’ll nudge them for you.
Pro tip: Got people to invite? Use Share booking details to be able to share important trip details with your invitees. Just keep in mind that you are only able to invite as many people as what you booked for.
After inviting your passengers, make sure to iron out logistics. If you’re meeting an owner at a marina, it might be good to car pool or ride share to avoid not being able to find parking. Definitely bring snacks and beverages for your trip, or pick a nice waterfront restaurant to dock n’ dine. Pack plenty of water, sunscreen of SPF 30 or greater, and towels. Get very excited, you’re about to get on a boat!
What if I don’t have any boating experience?
Don’t worry, using Boatsetter’s captain network you can have an incredible day out on the water. The Captain’s network is intended for anyone looking to have a carefree day without the responsibility of taking the helm. No matter if you’re a beginner or seasoned pro, you can rent a boat with a captain. Not only will our captains keep you and your crewmates safe, they’ll also serve as local experts, showing you all the hidden coves, boating hotspots, and the best sandbar parties in the area.
For those looking to take the helm, did you know Boatsetter operates the largest boating school in the United States? That’s right. We currently offer free boating courses in 16 locations. Our hands-on approach will teach you the fundamentals of boating and waterway signage all while giving you real life experience alongside the guidance of a USCG-certified captain.
Now, with Boatsetter’s insider tips (and that account you’ve already created) you’re all set to create a seriously awesome boat rental experience.
Learn more about the go-to boat rental marketplace
- Boat Rental Services 101: What Is Boat Sharing?
- 2023 Campaign Unveil: Rent the boat. Own the moment.
- 5 Reasons Why the Boatsetter App is the Best Boat Rental App
About us
Boatsetter is a unique boat-sharing platform that gives everyone—whether you own a boat or you’re just renting—the chance to experience life on the water. You can list a boat, book a boat, or make money as a captain.
Rent. List. Share—Only at Boatsetter
Boatsetter empowers people to explore with confidence by showing them a world of possibility on the water. Rent a boat, list your boat, or become a Boatsetter captain today.
