Plan a boat trip around Charlotte

Check a lake day off your summer bucket list by visiting these boating spots around the Queen City.

A boat carrying an American flag atop a body of water with a jet ski in the background.

Per NC law, valid boaters licenses are required if you were born after Jan. 1, 1988.

Photo by CLTtoday

If you’re planning a boat trip this summer, consider spending a day on huge bodies of water just a short drive away — with all the equipment you need.

Lake Norman

  • Carolina Boat Rentals | The company provides captained tours + waverunner rentals. Price starts at $160.
  • Lake Norman CS Rentals | Rent a boat or waverunner for four, six hours, or up to five days. Prices range from $200 to $2,400.

Lake Wylie

  • Lake Wylie Boat Rentals | Enjoy a pontoon with 10 of your friends and family. Prices start at $300 + includes fuel.
  • Boat Rental USA | Take a pontoon ride or get the blood pumping with a ski boat. Prices start at $105.

Mountain Island Lake

Lake James

  • Lake James Boat Rentals | The name says it all: choose from a fleet of pontoon boat for ~$500 per day for a fun day on the water.

Pro tip: Boat renters must have a Boater’s License, per NC law.

More from CLTtoday
Since opening in March 2025, Blinders has boasted craft cocktails, elevated bar bites, and curated watch parties like movie nights, sporting events, and more.
Direct north, east, south, and west of CLT, the world awaits.
From chicken wings to bracket tips, we’ve got everything Charlotteans need for a winning season this March Madness.
We’re celebrating two years of CLTtoday by reflecting on our favorite articles from over the years.
Put your money where your community is and help us create a guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local spots and sharing this page with a friend.
Check out these brunch restaurants, cafes, and diners in Charlotte serving a variety of egg dishes, mimosas, bloody marys, and more.
Whether you favor a crisp lager or sweet stout, we’ve made a list of the breweries slinging craft beers around the Queen City.
Enjoy a slice of the Queen City’s must-try pizza shops
Birds like the ruby-throated hummingbird will be appearing in Charlotte in the spring — find out where you can spot them.
As the Japanese-inspired restaurants prepare to debut in Plaza Midwood, the restaurants’ chef opens up about inspiration, ingredients, and the move to the Queen City.