In this blog, we’ve rounded up everything you need to know about renting a boat at Kentucky Lake. We’re discussing everything from where to rent, to what to expect before you hit the water, and frequently asked questions about renting a boat on Kentucky Lake!
IMPORTANT: Some resorts only provide boat rental to their guests, so be sure to confirm before arrival!
Where to Rent Boats at Kentucky Lake
Pontoon Boats
- Big Bear Resort and Marina: Big Bear offers several different pontoon options, available at four-hour, eight-hour, and week reservations. Pontoons at Big Bear can be rented directly from their website!
- Cozy Cove Resort and Marina: All of Cozy Cove’s pontoons come with trolling motors, casting seats, live wells, fish finders, and soft convertible tops. All pontoons can pull skis and tubes with the exception of the black canopies. Pontoons can be rented daily, weekly, and for three-day durations. Boats can be rented by contacting their office at (270) 354-8168.
- Hester’s Resort: Hester’s offers tritoons and pontoons, all with canopies and the ability to tow water toys such as skis and tubes. These boats are offered at daily, three-day, and weekly rates. Boats can be rented by contacting their office from 8:00AM to 4:00PM at (270) 354-8280.
- Kenlake Marina: Kenlake has several pontoons available for rent. These boats are rented by the day and can be reserved on their website.
- Kentucky Dam Marina: Kentucky Dam Marina has several pontoon options available for any size party. They have tritoons and double decker pontoons, perfect for a day out on the lake. These boats can be reserved for four or eight hours, right on their website!
- King Creek Resort and Marina: King Creek has pontoons and tritoons available for rental. They even have a boat with a slide attached for extra lake day fun! Boats are available at half and full-day rates. These boats can be rented by calling their reservations line at (270) 493-0076.
- Malcolm Creek: Malcolm Creek has pontoons available for half-day, full-day, and weekly rates. Boats can be reserved by calling their office at (270) 354-6496.
- Moors Resort & Marina: Moors Resort has excellent pontoon options. Their options can be easily booked on their website. They have WaveRunners available for rental as well!
- Sportsman’s Lodge: Sportsman’s offers several pontoon rental options. Their boats can be rented by calling their office at (270) 387-1244.
- Whispering Oaks Resort: Whispering Oaks has pontoon rentals for 10-12 people and are available to rent for half-days, full-days, and weeks. To book their boats, call their office at (270) 354-6628.
- Shawnee Bay Resort: Available to guests only, Shawnee Bay rents Bennington Luxury Pontoon boats.
- Hickory Hill Resort and Marina: Available to guests only, Hickory Hill rents pontoons that seat 10-14 people.
Fishing Boats
- Cozy Cove Resort and Marina: Cozy Cove has two 17′ Bass Tracker Pro Team 175 bass boats featuring a 60-horsepower motor along with a trolling motor, casting seats, dual live wells, and depth finder. Fishing boats can be rented by contacting their office at (270) 354-8168.
- Hester’s Resort: Hester’s has 17′ Bass Tracker Pro Team 175 bass boats, which feature a 60 horsepower motor along with a trolling motor, two casting seats, dual live wells, and a depth finder. Fishing boats can be rented by contacting their office from 8:00AM to 4:00PM at (270) 254-8280.
- Kentucky Dam Marina: Kentucky Dam Marina has Bayliners available for up to four people. These boats can be reserved for four or eight hours, right on their website!
- King Creek Resort and Marina: King Creek has two different fishing boat options. Both boats include a 4-stroke engine, fish finder, dual livewell, 12U trolling motor, and an anchor. Fishing boats are available for half and full-day rentals and can be rented by calling their reservations line at (270) 493-0076.
- Malcolm Creek: Malcolm Creek has a 16’ Aluminum Jon Boat available for half-day, full-day, and weekly rentals. Their fishing boat options are extremely affordable and are perfect for first-time anglers.
- Whispering Oaks Resort: Whispering Oaks has two fishing boat options: a 16’ Northwood Deep V Fishing Boat and a 17’ Bass Tracker. To book their fishing boats, call their office at (270) 354-6628.
- Shawnee Bay Resort: Available to guests only, Shawnee Bay rents high quality fishing boats by Tracker and Lowe.
The Boat Rental Process
- Start by selecting which business you will be renting from and determine availability by calling their office or visiting their website.
- When you get checked in at the marina of your choosing, you will most likely have to present a valid driver’s license and form of payment (preferrably a credit card).
- After getting checked in, resorts and marinas will educate you on the proper use of the rental boat, rules and regulations of the water, and what to do in case of an emergency. Some marinas may present their own lesson or choose to show a video. It is very important that while you are being educated you pay close attention!
- Now, you’re on your way! Enjoy a day full of fun on the boat out on the legendary Kentucky Lake!
Boat Rentals FAQ
Q: How much does it cost to rent a boat on Kentucky Lake?
A: It depends, but there are boat pricing options available for every budget! Check the different websites above, and double check their policies–they may provide discounts to guests staying on their property!
Q: Do I need boating experience to rent a boat?
A: No! Marinas will prepare you for everything you need to know about operating a rental boat. It helps to have previous experience, but it is not required!
Q: How far in advance should I book a boat rental?
A: As soon as possible, as some of the summer months can cause an influx of rentals! However, at the time of this blog posting, there were still boats available for next-day rentals!
Q: What size pontoon boat should I rent?
A: Depends on the size of your group! On all of the websites, underneath the boat descriptions it will list how many people can fit on each boat.
Q: Can you swim off a rental pontoon boat?
A: Absolutely! We want you to enjoy the lake to its fullest potential, so jump in and float, swim, or do whatever makes your lake day the best!
Q: What should I bring on a rental boat?
A: No matter what, you should always bring sunscreen, water, snacks, and towels! Depending on the length of your rental, you may want to pack a lunch and extras of everything. If you’re renting a fishing boat, be sure to bring all of your fishing gear and equipment needed for a full day out on the water!
Q: Can I fish from a rental boat?
A: Yes, if you have a valid fishing license in the state of Kentucky. To obtain your fishing license, visit the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources’ website!
Q: Are fuel, life jackets, and safety equipment included with my boat rental?
A: Fuel is typically not included during the duration of the boat rental, however, check with the marina you are renting from to confirm their policy. Life jackets and safety equipment are typically included in all boat rentals, but again it is best to confirm with the marina!
