Door County Boating FAQs

Pricing depends on how long you want the watercraft and which vessel you choose. For current rates, please check out our booking page to browse real-time pricing and availability!

We offer pontoons, tritoons, speedboats, and jet skis. Our largest boats can hold up to 15 people. Whether you're planning a small family outing or a big group adventure, we'll help you choose the perfect watercraft for your group size and taste for adventure!

You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver's license to operate any of our motorized watercraft. 

• If you were born before January 1, 1989, you're all set with just your driver's license. 

• If you were born after January 1, 1989, you also need to complete a boating safety certification exam – but no worries, we can administer it right at our office for just $10! 

• For our younger operators (16-17 years old), you'll need both the safety certification AND a parent accompanying you while operating.

No experience? No problem! Our knowledgeable staff provides a full orientation to make sure you feel confident before heading out.

With a rental from Door County Boating, you can cruise along Door County's most beautiful waters, exploring anywhere between Egg Harbor and Gills Rock! 

Some must-see spots include Peninsula State Park, Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, Horseshoe Island, Strawberry Islands, Millionaire's Row, and the stunning Ellison Bay bluffs. Whether you're swimming, sightseeing, or chasing a sunset, you'll have access to the best boating spots in Door County. Our team loves sharing insider tips on the perfect spots for your adventure!

Everyone should arrive at least 30 minutes prior to their rental time. This gives enough time for check-in, waivers, and a boat/map orientation. Sometimes we can get you off the dock early, too!

Yes! Every boat is equipped with enough life jackets on board for the boat’s maximum capacity. We provide additional life jackets for infants & kids. Life jackets for watersports and waverunners will also be provided.

If you’d like to bring your own, that is fine. We just need to confirm they’re Coast Guard-certified when you arrive.

No. Every boat will leave with a full tank of gas. When you return from your rental, we will fill the boat up, and you will be billed just for what you used.

Yes! We are dog-friendly! We do ask that you bring a towel or blanket for the seats, just so they do not puncture the vinyl. We try to keep our boats in top-notch condition, so we would appreciate it if you were cautious with the furniture on board.

Yes! Coolers make great drink holders, too. Please also bring a trash bag for any garbage you create. Thank you for helping us keep Lake Michigan clean and beautiful.

As long as you meet the age and driver’s license requirements, we don’t require any prior boating experience. In fact, we have beginner boaters rent from us all the time!

For beginner boaters, we recommend renting a pontoon. We provide a full operation orientation, and we will make sure you feel comfortable before you leave the dock. Also, when you return, we will handle the docking!

Sister Bay: Parking is available directly across the street from our kiosk 10707 N Bay Shore Dr

Egg Harbor: Parking is available in the Egg Harbor Marina lot 7714 Dock Rd

Ephraim: Parking is available in the South Shore Pier lot 9993 Water St

You may drop off any supplies outside our shacks before you park, so there’s less carrying!

You may dock it at Fish Creek, Ellison Bay, Ephraim, Egg Harbor, or Sister Bay. Docking is first-come, first-served. You must be very careful when docking the boat because after you return, we WILL look over the outside of the boat. We recommend having your fenders out beforehand and having other members in the group help catch the boat.

We will provide a map for you when you pick up your rental. The northern boundary is Ellison Bay/Gills Rock, and the southern boundary is Egg Harbor. The distance you can travel is time-dependent on your rental. We recommend always giving yourself enough time to return on time, to avoid any late fees.

If you hit bottom, please call us immediately. We will coordinate the next steps. Most likely, we will boat over to you to replace the propeller, and you will be charged for the damage. Of course, if you avoid the places we tell you to, you should be in the clear!

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