Best Boat Rentals Near Lake Norman, NC
In partnership with
Top 12 Lake Norman Boat Rentals and Yacht Rentals
123...7
How to Rent a Boat on Lake Norman
1
Find the perfect boatEnter your desired location and date to explore our fleet of boat, Lake Norman, United States.
2
Select a captainChoose to drive yourself or select a USCG licensed captain.
3
Book with easeConnect with your boat owner and complete your booking online.
4
Set sailEnjoy your day on the water with friends and family!
Rent a Boat in Lake NormanLake Norman is a boater’s playground located in the heart of the Carolinas, just 20 miles north of Charlotte. For visitors and residents of North Carolina, Virginia, South Carolina and beyond, this gigantic freshwater lake welcomes boaters and group travelers looking for an adventure to cruise around and enjoy the 520-miles of shoreline. Families with young children, couples, and groups of friends can find luxurious lake houses, rolling hills, and woodsy forests to explore to complement their on-water adventures. Lake Norman touches several popular southern towns — Cornelius, Davidson, Huntersville, and Mooresville — offering a variety of activities to try both on and off the water.What to Know When planning your boat rental outing on Lake Norman, consider these popular boat rental styles: Safety Requirements:For more information, visit the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Where to dock your boat, or meet your rental:To learn more, be sure to read Things to do on Lake Norman. Weather ConditionsSummers in North Carolina tend to be hot and muggy; while, winters are very cold and wet. People typically flock to the water in the summertime to cool off. The best times of year to visit Lake Norman for on-water activities are from mid-May to mid-August. In some seasons, moderate temperatures allow the local boating season to be extended into the end of September or even early October.Avg. Temperature High: Peaks around 92°F in July Avg. Temperature Low: Around 29°F during winter months, from December through MarchAvg. Water Temperatures in and around Lake Norman:
Pontoons are fun boats ideal for a great day out on any lake. Cruise Lake Norman’s vast waters in style and comfort, with flexibility for handling a list of on-water activities. This infamous party-barge-style boat is perfect for families with small children or for friends looking to celebrate bachelorette/bachelor parties or birthdays.
Ski boats and wake boats will give you and your crew a thrill ride. If you’re interested in tow toys, tubing, wakeboarding, or even wakesurfing, these boats are for you.
Boating License/Education Rules: Residents born after January 1, 1988, who operate powered watercraft 10 hp or greater, have completed a NASBLA-approved boating safety course. No one under 14 years of age may operate a PWC. Persons 14 years old up to 16 years of age may operate if they are accompanied by an adult 18 or older or have a certificate of competency from a NASBLA-approved boating education course and some form of ID.
Life Jacket Recommendations: 13 years of age and under must wear a PFD.
All Seasons Marina and BoatYard
Safe Harbor Kings Point
Safe Harbor Westpoint
Stutts Marina
60°F in the Spring (March, April, May)
75°F in the Summer (June, July, August)
60°F in Fall (September, October, November)
43°F in Winter (December, January, February)
Things to do on Lake Norman
Go Bass Fishing with Expert Local GuidesLake Norman is a popular destination for avid anglers—not only because of its booming bass population but also because it serves as host to several national fishing tournaments. While this lake is teeming with fish year-round, the best time of year to go fishing is during spring and/or early winter. Not only will you make your trophy catch around this time, but you’ll also be among other experienced local anglers on the water. Up your game and book a fishing charter while here! Keep in mind that you’ll be required to have a basic fishing license, or sportsman license, to fish here. Your charter captain can help ensure you’re ready to fish with gear and appropriate licenses.Pro Tip: Target species in this area include: Catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, striped bass, and yellow and white perch.
Location: Google Maps Link
Closest marinas or docks: Ramsey Creek Boat Ramp
Lat/Long: 35.4643° N, 80.9015° W
Catch the Sunset at The SandbarLocated in Cornelius, Jetton Park is the perfect place for families. Also close by is the Lake Norman Sandbar. Drop your anchor here for some solid quality time spent with your loved ones. You’ll pretty much have this slice of the lake all to yourselves, so enjoy. Make sure to pack berries, power drinks, plenty of water, and perhaps your favorite sandwiches for when the hunger bites. Float on a lily pad and bring fun water toys, too! End the day by watching the sunset on the lake. Pro Tip: Other great areas to catch the sunset on the lake include Cocktail Cove, Ramsey Creek Park, and Toucan's Lakefront.
Location: Google Maps Link
Sunset hours: The sun typically sets around 8:30pm during the middle of summer. Be sure to secure a spot on The Sandbar at least an hour to 30 minutes before so you can enjoy the sunset to its fullest.
Lat/Long: 35.4892° N, 80.9254° W
Wakeboarding near MooresvilleThe waters northeast of Lake Norman, near Mooresville, are buzzing with on-water activity. Thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies will want to bring their boat here to go wakeboarding. With any one of our awesome towboats within the Boatsetter fleet, you can throw off the perfect wake and ride like a pro. Don’t worry if you’re a bit rusty or if you’re new to watersports, you’ll have plenty of time with a half-day or full day rental to find your balance and try out new tricks. Plus, you can consider booking your boat rental with a captain who has experience with watersports and can help show you the ropes.Pro Tip: Mooresville is a charming southern town, and is a part of Charlotte's metropolitan area. Since you’ll be near it, check out this small town’s buzzing Downtown made of unique boutiques, breweries, and locally owned restaurants.
Location: Google Maps Link
Marinas: Inland Sea Marina, Stutts Marina, 420 Dock
Lat/Long: 35.5020° N, 80.9180° W
Where to Go Boating on Lake Norman
Goat IslandLocated south of Governor’s Island, Goat Island—also called Dog Island—is the place for you, the kids, and the dog to hang out and catch the sunset. It’s also home to Lake Norman’s annual ‘Dog Island Jam,’ which has become the lake’s can’t-miss event of the summer. Be ready to join the local crowd and make friends, as this is a popular area for boaters to raft up or beach with other boats. This shallow-water area is perfect for people (and pets) looking for an easy swim. If you plan to spend the day, make sure to pack a couple of sandwiches, fruit, power drinks, and towels! Google Maps Link
Nearby marinas: Holiday Marina is located to the east, while Safe Harbor Peninsula Yacht Club is just south.
Rafting-up: Goat Island is a very popular spot for raft-up parties with other boats. Remember to check with your boat’s owner ahead of time if this is allowed; or book your rental with a captain and allow a professional to handle each step of the raft-up process.
Pro Tips: Every summer around the month of July, Dog Island hosts something like a music festival for boaters, it’s called Dog Island Jam! This festival fills up the tiny island and the water, so make sure to secure your boat rental early so you don’t miss out.
Lat/Long: 36.3446°N, -76.2213°W
Lake Norman State ParkLocated on the northern shore of the lake at the mouth of Hicks Creek, Lake Norman State Park is one of North Carolina’s most visited parks. You can find the boat ramp conveniently located onsite, which is a perfect location to meet your boat’s owner. During your cruise, you’ll see several sandy shores. Continue to the south side of the park and you’ll reach the swimming area. If you’ve book a captained-rental, have your captain anchor your boat here, crack open a drink, and turn up the music. Take in the view of woods hugging the beach and don’t be afraid to dive right in. Lifeguards on site are on the lookout for you here. Google Maps Link
Dockage: Lake Norman State Park Boat Ramp
Wake zone: Yes - across the entire lake, there are regulations in place stating that it is unlawful to operate a vessel at greater than no-wake speed within 50 yards of a boat launching area, bridge, dock, pier, marina, boat storage structure, or boat service area.
Pro Tips: This 1,900-acre park offers anglers several fishing opportunities. If you’re looking for where to fish in North Carolina, come here for a guided pro fishing experience. Target fishing species include Black Crappie, Striped Bass, White Bass, Channel Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Bluegill, and Yellow Perch.
Lat/Long: 35.6721° N, 80.9326° W
Blythe LandingLocated in Mecklenberg county, near Huntersville, Blythe Landing is a hotspot for boaters in North Carolina as well as boaters trying to get to know this great state. You’ll have six boat launch sites here, and several floating piers. Needless to say, all routes here lead you and your crew to the water. Anchor your boat here to immerse yourself in a vibrant crowd that typically floats here. Blythe Landing is hands down one of the spots for lake fun. In the mood for a little friendly competition? Dock here and set up your very own sand volleyball match. Google Maps Link
Seasonality: Open from March 1 through October 31
Getting to Blythe Landing: Located in the southeastern corner of the lake, Blythe Landing is across from Jetton Park and Ramsey Creek Park.
Pro Tips: Feeling a bit hungry? Dock your boat at Dockside Cafe, which sits onsite, for a cold Coke-Cola, burger, and fries.
Lat/Long: 35.4336° N, 80.9072° W
Dock-and-Dine at Lake Norman Waterfront Restaurants
Port City ClubLanding RestaurantToucan's LakefrontCheck Out Additional Lake Norman Boating GuidesLake Norman Fishing Guide6 Amazing Lakes Near Charlotte, North Carolina (1. Lake Norman)Types of Boats for LakesBoating with Dogs: 6 Tips for Taking a Dog on a Boat
Hours: Mon-Thurs 4pm-10pm; Fri-Sat 11:30am-10pm; Sun 11:30am-9pm
Reservations: Yes, required.
Type of food: Seafood, vegetarian, traditional American
Dockage available: Yes
Hours: Wed- Thurs 4 pm-9pm; Fri- Sun 11am- 10pm
Reservations: No
Type of food: American, pub, pizza, seafood
Dockage available: Yes
Hours: Tues- Thurs, Sun 11am- 9pm; Fri- Sat 11am- 10pm
Reservations: No
Type of food: American, bar, seafood, Mexican
Dockage available: Yes
Got Questions?
Top boat rental reviews in Lake Norman
266,828Customer Reviews
4.9Average Rating
22 foot harris flotbote-excellent condition 12 passenger with 150 hpthe boat was great! we were able to see so much of the lake since the new 150 hp engine got us around so quickly. the owner, kyle, was very helpful. he showed us where everything was on the boat...
MichaelOct, 2024
22 foot harris flotbote-excellent condition 12 passenger with 150 hpkyle was great in helping us get going on our boat trip. he gave us clear instructions on where to meet him, where to board and what was expected. he also provided small helps for the kiddies. the boat was very comfy...
KimOct, 2024
beautiful 24 foot tritoon for rent!brandon was great! worked with us to get on the lake last minute after another booking canceled on us. he was super helpful with the boat and the lake! would definitely use him again!
StephenOct, 2024
tube lake norman 2021 luxury bennington 24’ tri-toon party bargegreat service. great communication. spotless boat. ran the lake all day with our family and dog. couldn’t ask for more. thank you.
AndrewOct, 2024
32ft all-inclusive yacht (captained) - lake normanmy husband said he had a great time! & jay was great during the whole boat ride! will definitely book again sometime!
TaylorSep, 2024
Browse by Experience
Fishing charters
Yacht rentals
Luxury yacht charters
Pontoon boat rentals
Jet ski rentals
Bachelor party
Bachelorette party
Party boats
Own a boat?Boatsetter lets you make money renting out your boat. Peace of mind and insurance is included in every rental, and you choose who rents your boat.
Ready to set sail?Search and find the perfect boat.
Need assistance?Get in touch with one of our success experts.