Lake Hartwell boat rentals are not hard to find. Whether you want to rent a jet ski, pontoon, or a fishing boat, you have lots of options on the Georgia side of Lake Hartwell.
The wind in your hair and the open water before you—the perfect day on the lake for many means spending time on a boat. Luckily you don’t need to be a boat owner to reap all the benefits of a day boating on Hartwell Lake. As Lake Hartwell is one of the most popular boating destinations in the southeast, boat rentals are plentiful. But there are a few regulations that restrict who can rent a boat on Lake Hartwell, so make sure to read the second section of this post.
The Best Places For Boat Rentals on Lake Hartwell, GA
There are multiple options available, but these are some of the highest-rated, most popular boat rental spots on Lake Hartwell on the Georgia side. If you’re in South Carolina, be sure to see these boat rental locations.
Hartwell Marina
This popular boating rental company is located right off the waters of Lake Hartwell. Here you can rent 24-foot pontoon boats for anywhere from a half day to an entire week. Discounts will be available if the boat is rented on Monday through Thursday or during the off-season.
You can also rent a tube kit with a tune, line and two life jackets—the perfect way to enjoy being towed by the boat or relaxing out in the waters. If you want to bring a pet on-board for your boating adventure, additional fees will apply. They also offer casual lakeside dining and boat storage and sales.
Young Harris Watersports
If you are looking for the best place at Lake Hartwell to rent a boat, jet ski, or any other type of watercraft, you will want to check out this rental company. There are several different types of motorized boat available to rent. This includes ski boats, wake boats, center console, and a tritoon boat.
Fishers will be particularly happy to know that Young Harris Watersports offer an aluminum fishing boat rental. This is the perfect way to spend time and catch the next big one. This boat is available hourly or weekly, with many varieties in between. If you are looking for some non-motorized boats, there are also single and double kayaks available for rent as well.
Harbor Light Marina
Choose between pontoon boats or a deck boat at this harbor rental that is right on Lake Hartwell. These boats will hold anywhere from four to 18 people, so there is plenty of room on board for your whole crew. A deposit is required and if you bring a pet on board, you will likely accrue an additional fee.
C and E Boat Rentals
This family-owned boat rental in Lake Hartwell has both boats and jet skis available for rent. Rentals are available for a half day, full day, weekend or an entire week. All rentals include a ski rope, 3 adult-sized life vests and a 3-man tube for free.
Requirements For Renting A Boat in Georgia
Before you head out to rent a boat at Lake Hartwell, Georgia, there is some helpful info every aspiring boater needs to be aware of. This information pertains to any person who wishes to operate a boat in Georgia waters.
Who is Allowed to Operate a Boat at Lake Hartwell in Georgia?
While each boat rental facility may have its own set of additional regulations, the state of Georgia has laws regarding who can and cannot lawfully operate a vehicle in waters. There are certain non-motorized or low-horsepower vessels that children under the age of 12 are allowed to operate, as long as they are with a competent adult over the age of 18.
Those between age 12-15 can operate any boat under 16 feet long but must have completed a boater safety course. Boaters who are over the age of 16 are able to operate any vessel, but also must meet the requirement of successfully completing a boater safety class. The boater safety class must be approved by the Department of Natural Resources. These courses are offered in-person with the department itself as well as the U.S. coast guard and the U.S. power squadron. Additionally, there are some classes available to take online.
Do you Need a Boating License in Georgia?
Once you complete the department-approved class, you will receive a card showing you have finished it. This is the license you will need to show you are trained to safely operate a vessel on the water. This card must be carried with you at all times while on boating on Lake Hartwell.
What to bring
Before you board your boat, you’ll want to make sure you bring any safety equipment you might need like infant life jackets and sunscreen. A cooler of water and ice will help you keep hydrated, and if you plan on fishing, make sure to bring a cooler for your catch, too.
Tried one of these boat rentals on Lake Hartwell, Ga?
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Once you’ve had your fill of boating, there’s plenty to do off the water. Check out some of the other fun things you can do near Lake Hartwell, GA!
