Pontoon Boat Rentals in Ocean City, MD

Rent by the hour
Take your friends and family
Fish, clam, or just hang with your friends

For those looking to explore Ocean City at a more relaxed pace, renting a boat is the perfect way to do it. Whether you’re cruising the calm waters of the bay, dropping anchor for a swim, or watching the sun set over the Ocean City skyline, a boat rental puts you in control of your own unforgettable day on the water. Not only that, but gliding across Ocean City’s beautiful coastal bays offers a perspective of the shoreline you simply can’t get any other way. Whether you’re heading out solo, with a partner, or with the whole family in tow, there’s an Ocean City boat rental out there just waiting to make your vacation one for the books.

What You Need To Know About Renting a Boat In Ocean City

  • Boats are typically available to rent in 2, 4 or 6 hour increments, with prices and permitted ride areas varying by company.
  • You must have a valid drivers license to rent a boat and you must be able to understand the safety briefing.  You may need to have a safe boaters license.
  • Pontoon boat rental rates vary by company, boat size, and rental duration — contact rental companies directly for current pricing.
  • Most rental companies require operators to complete a brief on-site boater’s safety orientation before hitting the water.
  • Age and licensing requirements to operate a rental boat vary by company — check before you go.
  • Companies have different policies regarding rentals involving minors.
Featured Pontoon Boat Rentals
2025 Best of Ocean City Winner
IMG 0029 768x720

Bayside Boat and Jet Ski Rentals

5307 Coastal Hwy,, Ocean City, Maryland
Area:
Family OWNED & OPERTAED since 1999!   We have a SAFETY 1st attitude and treat all of our customers like family!   You will not find a more knowledgeable, friendly, or hilarious More Details...
2025 Best of Ocean City Winner
odyssea 768x765

Odyssea Watersports

120 52nd St, Ocean City, Maryland
Area:
Same Family, New Location.   The Odyssea Watersports family has been in the watersports business for over 25 years and they look forward to seeing you on the water at More Details...
View all

Boat Rentals

a

What is a pontoon boat and why should I rent one in Ocean City?

A pontoon boat is a flat-decked, stable vessel built for comfort and leisure. They’re spacious, easy to handle, and ideal for groups who want to cruise the bay, fish, swim, anchor at a sandbar, or simply relax on the water. They’re one of the best ways to see Ocean City from a different vantage point — out on the water, at your own pace.
Categories: Boat Rentals Things to Do in Ocean City, Maryland
a

How much does it cost to rent a pontoon boat in Ocean City?

Rates vary by company and boat size, but here’s a general range based on current local listings:

Bayside Boat & Jet Ski Rentals (5307 Coastal Hwy):

  • 2 hours — $279
  • 3 hours — $339
  • 4 hours — $399
  • 6 hours — $499
  • 8 hours — $599

Odyssea Watersports (106 52nd St):

  • 70 HP Pontoon — from $295 (2–8 hour rentals, up to 12 passengers)
  • 90 HP Pontoon — from $335 (2–8 hour rentals, up to 12 passengers)
  • 115 HP Tri-Toon — from $435 (2–6 hour rentals, up to 10 passengers)

Always confirm current pricing directly with the rental company, as rates can vary by season.

Categories: Boat Rentals Things to Do in Ocean City, Maryland
a

How many people can fit on a pontoon boat?

Most pontoon boats in Ocean City accommodate up to 10–12 passengers, though weight limits also apply. Bayside’s boats hold a maximum of 12 people including children, with a total weight limit of 2,300 lbs — and that limit is verified at check-in. Odyssea’s 90 HP pontoon also holds up to 12, while their Tri-Toon tops out at 10. Choose your boat size based on your group’s headcount and total weight. baysideboatrentals
Categories: Boat Rentals Things to Do in Ocean City, Maryland
a

Do I need a boating license to rent a pontoon boat?

It depends on when you were born. If you were born after July 1, 1972, you are required to have a valid boater’s certificate to operate the vessel. Rental companies like Bayside can issue a free temporary certificate on-site after you review the required safety materials from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Always check with your rental company in advance. baysideboatrentals

Categories: Boat Rentals Things to Do in Ocean City, Maryland
a

What is the minimum age to rent a pontoon boat?

All pontoon boat operators must be at least 18 years of age and present a valid, government-issued photo ID at the time of rental. Children are welcome as passengers — just factor them into the total headcount and weight limit. baysideboatrentals
Categories: Boat Rentals Things to Do in Ocean City, Maryland
a

Is a deposit required to rent a boat?

Yes. Bayside requires a $200 refundable security deposit, and applicable taxes apply. Odyssea requires approximately a $50 deposit per pontoon boat rental when reserving by phone; if booking online, full payment is required at time of reservation. baysideboatrentals  odysseawatersports
Categories: Boat Rentals Things to Do in Ocean City, Maryland
a

Do I need to make a reservation for a boat rental?

Yes — both companies strongly recommend (and in some cases require) advance reservations, especially during the busy summer season. Bayside operates rentals by reservation only. Booking ahead is the best way to guarantee the time slot and boat size you want. baysideboatrentals
Categories: Boat Rentals Things to Do in Ocean City, Maryland
a

What’s included with my rental?

Life vests are provided free of charge with all rentals. Most boats come equipped with shade canopies. You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks — just note that glass bottles, grills, and tubing are not permitted, and trips to Assateague Island are not allowed. baysideboatrentals baysideboatrentals
Categories: Boat Rentals Things to Do in Ocean City, Maryland
a

What should I know before I go?

A few key things to keep in mind:

  • Your entire party must arrive at least 30 minutes early to complete paperwork. baysideboatrentals
  • All operators and passengers must be sober. Anyone appearing intoxicated will be denied rental, and cancellation fees will apply. baysideboatrentals
  • You may not pick up additional passengers after departing. baysideboatrentals
  • All operators must be able to effectively communicate with staff in English for safety and insurance reasons.
Categories: Boat Rentals Things to Do in Ocean City, Maryland
a

Where can I go on a pontoon boat rental?

You’ll cruise the bay and surrounding waterways, with some great options including the Assawoman Bay, Isle of Wight Bay, and various bayside docks where you can tie up and visit local waterfront restaurants and shops. Note that Assateague Island is off-limits for rentals. If you plan to fish, you’ll need a Maryland fishing license — you can get one online through the Maryland DNR.
Categories: Boat Rentals Things to Do in Ocean City, Maryland
a

Where are the best places to rent pontoon boats?

There are two pontoon boat rentals that always win the Best of Ocean City® awards each year:
Categories: Boat Rentals Things to Do in Ocean City, Maryland