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Boat Rentals in Santa Barbara, CA

5 of the 38 marinas and boating businesses we list in Santa Barbara have boat rentals.

This section lists boat rental companies and marinas that rent boats directly to the public. Available vessels typically range from 18-foot fishing skiffs and 24-foot pontoon boats to personal watercraft and ski boats. Before booking, confirm whether fuel is included in the rental price, check state boating license regulations, and verify daily departure schedules.

  1. Santa Barbara Landing

    301 W Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

    Boat ramp
    Call Website Directions

  2. Santa Barbara Sailing Center

    302 W Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

    Call Website Directions

  3. Whisper -Santa Barbara Harbor Cruises

    Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, 113 Harbor Way, Santa Barbara, CA 93109-2315

    Call Website Directions

  4. Cachuma Lake Store & Marina

    2275 Highway 154, Santa Barbara, CA 93105

    Call Website Directions

  5. Santa Barbara Sport Fishing

    1762 Prospect Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93103-1994

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Security deposit required: Most marinas place a credit card authorization hold of $500 to $1,500 at check-in to cover potential propeller or hull damage.

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Good to know

Do I need a boating license to rent a boat at a marina?

Requirements depend on state laws, but most US states require drivers born after a specific cutoff date to hold a NASBLA-approved safety certificate. Marinas frequently administer a 15-minute temporary online or printed course for $10 to $15 prior to departure. Drivers must be at least 21 or 25 years old and present a valid photo ID.

How much does it cost to rent a pontoon or powerboat?

Half-day rentals (4 hours) typically range from $250 to $500, while full-day rentals (8 hours) run between $400 and $900 depending on location and vessel size. Fuel is usually charged separately at marina pump prices upon return, adding $40 to $120 to the total bill. Peak summer weekends often require full-day minimum bookings.

What equipment is included with a boat rental?

Rental rates include US Coast Guard-required safety gear, such as adult life jackets, throwable cushions, fire extinguishers, and anchors. Renters must bring properly fitted life jackets for children under 13, as marina stock in youth sizes is limited. Watersports gear like towable tubes or wakeboards can be rented separately for $30 to $75 per day.