This section lists marinas and waterfront facilities that operate an active boat rental fleet directly on site. 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.
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Big Creek Marina
8550 NW 142nd Ave, Polk City, IA 50226
Mon-Fri 8am-7pm
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Saylorville Lake Marina
6170 NW Polk City Dr, Polk City, IA 50226
McGregor 1
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Nauti Marina
400 7th St, McGregor, IA 52157-8595
Pella 1
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Red Rock Marina
1768 CR-G28, Pella, IA 50219-7525
Sabula 1
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Island City Harbor
305 South Ave, Sabula, IA 52070
Mon-Fri 8am-5pm
Ventura 1
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Lake Dream Marine
601 E Lake St, Ventura, IA 50482
Mon-Fri 8am-5pm
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.
How to shrink wrap a boat?
To shrink wrap a boat, cover support structures with protective padding, lay the shrink film across the hull, heat-shrink it with a heat gun, and add ventilation ports. For large vessels or professional weatherproofing in Iowa, check the 6 marine service providers cataloged on MarinaAtlas.
What is a marine survey?
A marine survey is a detailed inspection of a boat's hull, mechanical systems, and overall condition conducted by a certified surveyor. Across Iowa, MarinaAtlas indexes 6 qualified marine operators and survey specialists to assist buyers and insurance companies.