Weekender Pontoon Boat Rental Pricing
The Weekender is a 36-foot pontoon boat with onboard BBQ grill, water slide, shaded bar area, and private bathroom. It's docked at Zephyr Cove Marina on the south shore of Lake Tahoe and fits up to 12 guests.
| Option | Duration | Total Price | Per Person (12) | Per Person (8) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Half Day | 4 hours | $1,325 | ~$110 | ~$166 |
| Full Day | 8 hours | $1,950 | ~$163 | ~$244 |
Fuel surcharge is not included and is charged separately based on usage. Prices are subject to change — check the booking page for current rates.
How the Weekender Compares
Lake Tahoe boat rentals vary widely depending on the type of boat, whether a captain is included, and the amenities offered. Here's how the Weekender stacks up against common alternatives:
Captained Charter Boats
Most captained pontoon and speedboat charters on Lake Tahoe run $300–$600+ per hour, meaning a 4-hour trip for a group costs $1,200–$2,400+ before tip. The Weekender at $1,325 for a half day includes a BBQ grill, water slide, bar area, and bathroom that most charters don't have — and you keep the captain fee savings (typically $50–$200/hour).
Basic Pontoon Rentals
Standard pontoon rentals on the lake (no BBQ, no slide, no bathroom) run $400–$800 for a half day depending on size and location. The Weekender costs more, but includes amenities that transform a boat ride into an event — the BBQ alone saves you from eating cold sandwiches, and the bathroom means you don't cut your day short.
Party Boats & Group Cruises
Large commercial party boats and dinner cruises on Lake Tahoe charge $60–$150+ per person. For a group of 12, that's $720–$1,800 — comparable to or more than the Weekender, but without the privacy, self-drive freedom, or ability to anchor wherever you want.
Best Value Party Boat on Lake Tahoe
BBQ, water slide, bar, bathroom, 12 guests. From $110 per person.
Check Availability & BookWhat's Included in the Price
Included: The boat itself (36-foot pontoon), onboard BBQ grill, water slide, shaded bar area, private bathroom, seating for 12, safety equipment, life jackets, safety briefing and orientation at the marina.
Not included: Fuel (surcharge based on usage), food and drinks (BYOB), towels, sunscreen, entertainment (speakers, inflatables). See our full packing checklist →
How to Get the Best Value
Fill the boat. At 12 guests, the per-person cost drops to ~$110 for a half day. That's less than most group activities in Tahoe — cheaper than a round of golf, a spa visit, or dinner at a lakefront restaurant.
Full day for celebrations. The 8-hour option is only $625 more than the half day, but doubles your time. For bachelor parties, birthdays, and family reunions, the full day gives you time to cruise, grill, swim, and relax without rushing.
BYOB everything. No markup on food or drinks. Buy groceries at the Safeway or Raley's in South Lake Tahoe the day before and load up the coolers. A full spread for 12 people can be done for $150–$250.
Book early. Summer weekends — especially July 4th, Memorial Day, and Labor Day — sell out weeks in advance. Booking early secures your preferred date.
Deposit & Cancellation
A deposit is required at booking. Cancellations more than 72 hours in advance receive a full refund. Within 72 hours, the deposit is forfeited. The renter must be 18 years or older. Maximum 12 passengers — this is a legal capacity limit enforced for safety.
Ready to Book? Check Today's Availability.
Half day $1,325 · Full day $1,950 · Up to 12 guests · Zephyr Cove Marina
Book the Weekender