Skip to main content

Finally, your day off is rapidly approaching and you are totally pumped up to unleash the water animal inside of you. All there is left to do is to gather up the guys and gals, pack up the essentials and figure out how to choose the right boat to rent. That’s why Northshore Marina boat rental created this guide to help you answer that question.

Boater Safety Education Course

Before renting a boat or watercraft, know upfront beforehand the Texas Parks and Wildlife requires anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 must obtain complete an approved  ‘Boater Safety Education Course’  prior to rental. Online courses may charge up to $20 for an approved course. Persons born prior to this date may simply provide a valid state issued driver’s license.

How Many People?

Various boats and personal watercraft have maximum capacities for passengers and weight in order to operate safely – like our SeaDoos which can accommodate 2 people or 600 lbs safely. Consider how many people are in your party and then choose the corresponding capacity.

Boating Conditions?

Waves can create fun and excitement no doubt. But the unpredictability of waves in open waters during unfavorable conditions can be scary if you fail to choose the right boat for the conditions at hand. Boating conditions can influence a great deal of things like; is the size of your boat compatible the conditions? Does the boat operator have the proper skills to navigate the waters safely? Remember that small children and pets can easily become frightened and panicked in choppy waters.

Skill Level?

Determining your skill level vs the boat chosen is a key factor. Just because you beat your buddies at video racing games, does not mean you have the skill set it requires order to drive an actual NASCAR. While many boat rentals are fairly easy to operate, some will require more elevation in skills and experience. Anytime you are unsure if you have what it takes, please err on the side of caution and ask before you rent the watercraft.

Desired Speed?

Personality, style and what your idea of water fun is often dictates the desired need for speed. There are 3 basic categories:

  • Slow and Easy – Paddleboarding, houseboats and Party Barges are a good fit for you.

  • Cruising or Fishing – Pontoon/Tritoons or a Yacht would be perfect!

  • High Speed and Tricks – Competition Wakeboarding boats, Runabout Ski boats, and SeaDoo’s are for intense speed craving adrenalin junkies.

Towing Abilities Required?

Whether you want to tow wakeboards, skis or tubes will greatly narrow the gap of choices – as not all boats or watercraft are compatible to do so. Competition Wakeboarding boats and Runabout Ski boats are ideal towing option.

Where to Get Gas on Lake Travis?

It is common practice for boat rentals to provide a full tank of gas upon rental agreement. Likewise, it should be returned with a full tank. All Northshore Marina customers will receive 10% off the already cheapest quality gas on Lake Travis.

Leave a Reply