There’s something special about a boat day on Lake Chelan. The water’s clear, the sun’s out, and whether you’re cruising, tubing, or dockside dining, life slows down in the best way possible. If you’re looking into local boat rentals or want to know where to dock, launch, or live your best lake life, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Why Lake Chelan Is a Boater’s Paradise
Stretching over 50 miles and framed by rolling hills, vineyards, and glacier-carved slopes, Lake Chelan is Washington’s favorite lake getaway, and a boating playground with serious range. From downtown Chelan to Stehekin, there’s endless water to explore, whether you’re renting for a few hours or settling into a seasonal slip.
What makes boating here special? There’s something for everyone. Smooth stretches for wakeboarding, coves for anchoring and swimming, waterfront wineries with boat-in access, and enough space that even on peak weekends, the lake never feels crowded.
But before you grab your cooler and sunscreen, let’s talk logistics.
What makes boating here special? There’s something for everyone. Smooth stretches for wakeboarding, coves for anchoring and swimming, waterfront wineries with boat-in access, and enough space that even on peak weekends, the lake never feels crowded.
But before you grab your cooler and sunscreen, let’s talk logistics.
Where to Rent a Boat in Chelan
Lake Shores Watercraft & Boat Rentals
If you want variety, reliability, and an easy rental process, Lake Shores is one of the top options in town. Conveniently located near Lakeside Park, this family-owned operation offers a wide range of well-kept watercraft, offering everything from high-performance wakeboard boats to spacious pontoons and jet skis built for speed. Their fleet is known for being modern, clean, and fuel-efficient, giving you one less thing to worry about once you’re out on the lake.
Lake Shores offers both hourly and full-day rentals, and every booking includes life jackets for your group. Their online reservation system is quick and user-friendly, making it easy to secure your spot in advance, which is especially important during peak summer weekends. With friendly service and a reputation for consistency, Lake Shores makes it easy to plan a carefree day on Lake Chelan.
Lake Shores offers both hourly and full-day rentals, and every booking includes life jackets for your group. Their online reservation system is quick and user-friendly, making it easy to secure your spot in advance, which is especially important during peak summer weekends. With friendly service and a reputation for consistency, Lake Shores makes it easy to plan a carefree day on Lake Chelan.
Shoreline Watercraft & Boat Rental
If you’re staying downtown or want to launch quickly without driving far, Shoreline is a wise pick. Located right at Don Morse Memorial Park, this rental spot gets you from the parking lot to the lake in just a few minutes. Their fleet covers all the bases—ski and wakeboard boats, pontoons for relaxed cruising, jet skis, paddleboards, and more—making it easy to find the right fit for your lake day plans.
The atmosphere is relaxed but organized, with staff who keep things moving smoothly. Hourly rental options offer flexibility, especially if you're not looking to commit to a full day. And with easy parking, on-site restrooms, and food spots within walking distance, Shoreline is a great pick for families, groups, or anyone who wants a streamlined lake experience from start to finish.
The atmosphere is relaxed but organized, with staff who keep things moving smoothly. Hourly rental options offer flexibility, especially if you're not looking to commit to a full day. And with easy parking, on-site restrooms, and food spots within walking distance, Shoreline is a great pick for families, groups, or anyone who wants a streamlined lake experience from start to finish.
Jet Skis Ahoy Watercraft & Boat Rental
Don’t let the name fool you, Jet Skis Ahoy offers much more than just jet skis. Conveniently located near Sunset Marina, they’re a solid choice for boaters looking to avoid the downtown crowds while still enjoying quick access to open water. Their rental lineup includes pontoons, ski boats, and personal watercraft, all available at competitive prices and maintained to high standards.
What sets them apart is their approachable, can-do attitude. The team is known for being flexible and helpful, even with last-minute bookings, which makes them a go-to for spontaneous lake days or hosting guests. Their pontoons are especially popular with families and groups looking for a low-key, no-fuss way to enjoy the lake, without compromising on comfort or service.
What sets them apart is their approachable, can-do attitude. The team is known for being flexible and helpful, even with last-minute bookings, which makes them a go-to for spontaneous lake days or hosting guests. Their pontoons are especially popular with families and groups looking for a low-key, no-fuss way to enjoy the lake, without compromising on comfort or service.
Best Marinas in Chelan for Docking, Launching, or Lounging
Lakeshore Marina
Operated by the City of Chelan, Lakeshore Marina offers a mix of seasonal and daily-use slips. It's located just west of downtown and is the go-to option for boaters who want convenience without paying for luxury amenities. The marina has a clean, secure setup with easy parking, trailer storage, and a public boat launch nearby.
If you're looking for a transient slip while renting a vacation home or want to launch your own boat without a seasonal contract, Lakeshore Marina is the most straightforward option. However, summer weekends fill up fast, so plan ahead or arrive early for same-day access.
If you're looking for a transient slip while renting a vacation home or want to launch your own boat without a seasonal contract, Lakeshore Marina is the most straightforward option. However, summer weekends fill up fast, so plan ahead or arrive early for same-day access.
The Sunset Marina
For a premium docking experience, Sunset Marina delivers the full package. This marina, just east of downtown Chelan, is designed for boat owners and serious lake lovers who want secure, top-tier moorage. Sunset Marina offers 168 slips, gated access, 24/7 video surveillance, Wi-Fi, and a private restroom and shower facility for members.
What makes this marina stand out isn’t just the amenities, it’s the community. Many of the slip owners here treat the marina like a summer home base, gathering for sunset wine, morning coffee, and everything in between. And if you’re thinking about living in Chelan part-time or full-time, Sunset Marina offers slip ownership as well, which is something to consider if your lake plans are long-term.
What makes this marina stand out isn’t just the amenities, it’s the community. Many of the slip owners here treat the marina like a summer home base, gathering for sunset wine, morning coffee, and everything in between. And if you’re thinking about living in Chelan part-time or full-time, Sunset Marina offers slip ownership as well, which is something to consider if your lake plans are long-term.
Tips for Enjoying Your Boat Day Like a Local
- Book ahead: Boat rentals in Chelan book out weeks in advance during peak season (July–August). Reserve early for weekends and holidays.
- Start early: Mornings mean calmer water, lighter boat traffic, and less wait time at the launch.
- Pack smart: Sunscreen, towels, drinks (non-glass), snacks, and a Bluetooth speaker are essentials. Don’t forget a dry bag for phones and wallets.
- Watch for no-wake zones: Areas near parks, public docks, and marinas are strictly enforced. Slow down and keep wakes to a minimum.
- Know where to gas up: Some rentals require refueling before return. Be sure to ask where the closest fuel dock is located.
Thinking About Living the Lake Life Full-Time?
Once you’ve spent a few sunny afternoons cruising Lake Chelan, it’s hard not to picture yourself living here. Whether you're searching for a lakefront home, a seasonal escape with boat access, or an investment property close to the water, Justin Skaar knows every cove, dock, and neighborhood in town. Reach out today to explore homes that let you live the Chelan lifestyle year-round.
