5 Best Pontoon Boat Rentals Pittsburgh: Top Options for Summer Fun on the Water

Pittsburgh's three rivers offer a unique backdrop for boating adventures. I find pontoon boats to be a great choice for cruising these scenic rivers. They provide a stable, spacious platform perfect for groups and families.

Renting a pontoon boat is an easy way to enjoy Pittsburgh's waterways without owning a vessel. I've researched the top rental options in the area to help others plan their perfect day on the water. This guide covers five of the best pontoon rentals, comparing factors like pricing, boat sizes, and amenities.

1) Pittsburgh Boat Rental

I recently visited Pittsburgh Boat Rental and was impressed by their fleet of high-quality pontoon boats. They offer a great way to explore Pittsburgh's three rivers - the Allegheny, Ohio, and Monongahela.

The booking process was simple. I used their online system to reserve a boat, which was quick and convenient. When I arrived, the staff gave a helpful safety briefing and explained how to operate the boat.

The pontoon I rented was well-maintained and comfortable. It had plenty of seating, a bimini top for shade, and a Bluetooth stereo. I enjoyed cruising along the rivers, taking in views of the city skyline and natural scenery.

Pittsburgh Boat Rental's prices seemed fair for the experience. They offer weekday discounts and last-minute deals, which can help save money. Overall, I found it to be a fun and relaxing way to spend a day on the water in Pittsburgh.

Rating: 5 (261 reviews)
Location: 1 River Rd, McKees Rocks, PA 15136
Contact: (412) 773-0988
Website: Visit Website

2) Rush Hour Boat Charters

I recently took a trip with Rush Hour Boat Charters and had a fantastic time. They offer private charters on a spacious 34-foot cruiser yacht that can accommodate up to 6 passengers.

The boat is perfect for sightseeing tours, special occasions, or just a relaxing day on the water. I enjoyed the narrated historical and architectural tour, which gave me a new perspective on Pittsburgh.

One of the best things about Rush Hour is their flexibility. They're open from May to October, and you can book trips from 10 AM to midnight. I appreciated that they have a full enclosure for bad weather, so my trip wasn't affected by a light drizzle.

Captain Bob Rush was friendly and knowledgeable. He made sure we were comfortable and even let us bring our own food and drinks on board. The slow cruising speed of 3 to 5 knots was perfect for taking in the sights and enjoying the river views.

Rating: 4.9 (51 reviews)
Location: 238 W Station Square Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Contact: (412) 855-7874
Website: Visit Website

3) Raccoon Creek Boat Rental

I recently visited Raccoon Creek Boat Rental and had a great time. They offer a variety of watercraft options, including kayaks, canoes, and rowboats. The highlight for me was their mini pontoon boats, perfect for a leisurely cruise on the water.

The rental process was easy and straightforward. I appreciated that life jackets were provided for all sizes. The staff was friendly and gave helpful tips about the creek.

One nice feature is their flexible rental policy. You can stay on the water as long as you want and pay when you return. This allowed me to take my time and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

The prices were reasonable, starting at $12 for the first hour for a single kayak. They also have an ATM on-site, which was handy. The rental is open daily from 10 AM to 7 PM, but all boats must be off the water by 8 PM.

Rating: 4.7 (125 reviews)
Location: 430 Raccoon Park Rd, Clinton, PA 15026
Contact: (724) 899-4130
Website: Visit Website

4) Three Rivers Boat Rental

I had a great time renting a pontoon boat from Three Rivers Boat Rental in Pittsburgh. They offer a range of watercraft options, including boats, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards.

The rental process was smooth, and the staff was friendly and helpful. I chose a pontoon boat for a relaxing day on the water with friends. The boat was clean and well-maintained.

From the water, I got to enjoy amazing views of Pittsburgh's skyline and bridges. It was a unique way to see the city from a different perspective. The Three Rivers area offers plenty of space to cruise around and take in the sights.

I found the rental rates reasonable for the experience. It's a fun activity for both locals and visitors looking to spend time on Pittsburgh's rivers. Booking in advance is a good idea, especially during busy summer weekends.

Rating: 4.7 (12 reviews)
Location: 101A Bridge Street, Millvale, PA 15209
Contact: (412) 651-9125
Website: Visit Website

5) Pittsburgh Pontoons

I recently took a river cruise with Pittsburgh Pontoons and had a fantastic time. They offer a variety of pontoon boats for rent, including 22-foot, 25-foot, and 27-foot options. The boats are well-maintained and can accommodate up to 12 people.

One thing I really liked was the option to hire a driver. This allowed everyone in our group to relax and enjoy the views without worrying about navigating the rivers. The drivers are knowledgeable about the area and pointed out interesting sights along the way.

Pittsburgh Pontoons also offers fun extras like innertubes and lilypads for swimming. The gas is included in the rental price, which I found convenient. They even have jet ski rentals for those seeking a more thrilling experience on the water.

For frequent boaters, they offer membership options that provide discounts on rentals. I think this could be a great value for locals who want to enjoy the rivers often during the summer months.

Rating: 4.6 (45 reviews)
Location: Lockwall One Marina, 2 23rd St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Contact: (724) 209-4403
Website: Visit Website

Benefits Of Renting A Pontoon Boat

Renting a pontoon boat offers a great way to enjoy Pittsburgh's rivers. I find these boats comfortable, spacious, and perfect for various activities on the water.

Relaxation And Comfort

Pontoon boats provide a smooth, stable ride. I love the wide, flat deck that makes it easy to move around. The comfy seating lets me stretch out and relax. Many boats have sun shades to keep me cool on hot days.

I can bring food and drinks to enjoy while cruising. Some boats even have small tables or coolers built-in. The gentle rocking of the boat on calm water is so soothing.

Perfect For Group Outings

Pontoon boats are ideal for spending time with family and friends. Most can fit 10-12 people comfortably. There's plenty of room for everyone to spread out or gather together.

I can host a floating picnic or party. It's fun to chat, play games, or listen to music while taking in the sights. Pontoons are great for birthdays, reunions, or just hanging out.

Versatility For Activities

These boats let me do all sorts of fun things on the water. I can go fishing - many have spots to set up poles. Swimming is easy with the boat's low sides and built-in ladders.

Some rentals offer tubes or water skis for more excitement. I can cruise slowly to enjoy the scenery or speed up for a thrill. Pontoons work well for wildlife watching or photography too.

Top Sights To See From The Water

Pittsburgh's rivers offer amazing views of the city's most iconic landmarks. I've found that cruising on a pontoon boat is the perfect way to take in these sights. Here are some of the best spots to check out during your trip.

Point State Park

Point State Park sits at the tip of Pittsburgh's "Golden Triangle" where the rivers meet. From the water, I can see the park's 150-foot fountain shooting water high into the air. It's an impressive sight, especially at night when it's lit up.

The park's green space and walking paths are visible from the river too. I like to cruise by slowly to take in the views of people relaxing and enjoying the park. The Fort Pitt Museum is also located here, though it's a bit harder to see from the water.

Three Rivers Confluence

The meeting point of Pittsburgh's three rivers - the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio - is a must-see spot. As I approach the confluence, the city skyline comes into full view.

It's cool to see where the rivers join and flow together. On a pontoon, I can get right up to the point where the waters merge. The contrast between the rivers is sometimes visible, with slightly different colors mixing.

This area is often busy with boat traffic, so I make sure to keep a safe distance from other vessels.

Pittsburgh Skyline Views

The city's skyline looks amazing from the water. I can see skyscrapers like the U.S. Steel Tower and PPG Place rising up along the shore. The yellow bridges spanning the rivers stand out against the buildings.

At night, the skyline lights up and reflects on the water - it's breathtaking.

I like to cruise slowly past downtown to take in all the details. The stadiums are visible too - PNC Park and Heinz Field sit right on the water's edge. On game days, I can sometimes hear the crowds cheering from my boat.

Tips For A Successful Pontoon Boat Rental Experience

I've got some key advice to help you get the most out of your pontoon boat rental. These tips cover planning, safety, and what to bring along.

Advance Planning And Booking

I recommend booking your pontoon rental well ahead of time, especially for weekends and holidays. Many places offer online reservations, making it easy to secure your boat.

When booking, I suggest asking about fuel policies and any extra fees. Some rentals include fuel, while others charge separately.

It's smart to check the weather forecast before your trip. If it looks bad, see if you can reschedule. Most rental places are flexible if you give them enough notice.

Don't forget to ask about the boat's features. Knowing what's included will help you plan better.

Safety Measures And Regulations

Safety should be your top priority on the water. I always make sure to get a full safety briefing from the rental staff. They'll cover important rules and how to use the boat's safety equipment.

Life jackets are a must. Make sure there's one for each person on board.

I like to wear mine at all times, even if it's not required.

Learn the local boating rules before you go out. This includes speed limits, no-wake zones, and right-of-way rules.

Following these keeps everyone safe and helps you avoid fines.

It's crucial to have a designated driver who stays sober. Boating under the influence is dangerous and illegal.

Checklist Of Essential Items

I've found that bringing the right gear makes for a much better day on the water. Here's a quick list of essentials:

• Sunscreen and hats for sun protection
• Plenty of water to stay hydrated
• Snacks or a picnic lunch
• Towels and extra clothes
• A waterproof phone case
• A small cooler for drinks and food
• A basic first aid kit

Don't overpack, but do bring what you need for comfort and safety. If you plan to swim, pack goggles or snorkeling gear.

I also like to bring a waterproof speaker for music and a good camera to capture memories. Just remember to keep electronics safe from water damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Renting a pontoon boat in Pittsburgh can be a fun experience. Here are some common questions people have about pontoon rentals in the city.

What are some top-rated pontoon boat rental services in Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh Boat Rental and Pittsburgh Pontoons are two popular options. Three Rivers Boat Rental also offers pontoon boats for rent. These companies get good reviews from customers.

How can I find reviews for pontoon boat rentals in Pittsburgh?

I recommend checking sites like Yelp, Google Reviews, and TripAdvisor. You can also look at the rental company's website for customer testimonials.

Reading reviews helps you pick a reliable service.

What are the requirements for renting a pontoon boat in Pittsburgh?

Most companies require renters to be at least 21 years old with a valid driver's license. You may need to pass a quick boating safety test. Some places ask for a security deposit too.

Are there any pontoon boat rentals available at Moraine State Park?

I didn't find any pontoon rentals at Moraine State Park in my search results. The park might have other boat options, but for pontoons, you'll likely need to rent in Pittsburgh.

Do any boat rental services in Pittsburgh offer special promotions or discounts?

Many rental companies run deals during off-peak times or for longer rentals. Pittsburgh Pontoons mentions they have no hidden charges.

It's best to check each company's website or call them directly for current offers.

What types of boats can be rented for a tour on Pittsburgh's waterways?

Besides pontoons, you can rent speedboats, fishing boats, and party boats.

Some companies like Rush Hour Boat Charters offer guided tours. Kayaks and paddleboards are also popular for exploring Pittsburgh's rivers.