Boat Rental FAQs

How old do you have to be to rent a boat?

You must be 25 Years of age to rent a boat (Picture ID required)

Do I need to make a Reservation?

Reservations are strongly recommended and encouraged, walk-in traffic will be accommodated based on availability. Reservations can be made by phone or online using our reservation system.

When do I pay?

Payment is required in full at the time of reservation.

Do you require a damage deposit?

We do not collect a damage deposit, but a credit card is required for pre-authorization in advance of your outing. No charges will be applied to the credit card unless equipment is lost or damaged during your outing.

What is your cancellation policy?

Reservations cancelled more than 14 days in advance of reservation date will result in a $35 cancellation fee. Reservations cancelled 7 to 13 days in advance of reservation date will result in a 50% cancellation fee. Reservations cancelled less than 7 days in advance of reservation date will result in a 100% cancellation fee. You can cancel your reservation by phone or online using our reservation system.

What about inclement weather?

No refunds will be given due to inclement weather. Rain dates may be offered but only at the discretion of Better Boating. No decisions regarding inclement weather will be made until the morning of the rental.

Is gas included?

Gas is NOT included. The boat will be full of gas at the start of the rental. The boat will be refueled by Better Boating or marina staff and paid directly to the marina by the renter at the end of the rental.

• Remember to have funds (i.e. cash or Visa/MasterCard) on hand to pay for the fuel at the end of the rental.

Can I fish from your boats, and do I need a fishing license?

Yes, you can fish from our Fish & Cruise Pontoons and our Double Decker Pontoon. There is No Fishing from our Performance or Luxury Tri-toons or our Sport Boats. Fishing gear is is NOT allowed on non-fishing boats. State law requires you to carry a fishing license. Go to http://dnr.sc.gov to get more information.

Do you allow dogs on your boats?

Yes, we allow up to two dogs on our Fish & Cruise Pontoons and our Double Decker Pontoon..

Do you rent tubes and other water toys?

We rent tubes, wakeboards, and kneeboards. We also rent water skis for adults and juniors. Ski vests are included with the rental of any water toy. Please let us know what you want in advance so it can be ready when you arrive for your rental. Note: Only towables rented from Better Boating are allowed to be towed by the rental boats. "You are NOT allowed to bring your own towables."

What if I don’t know how to drive a boat?

Our professional rental team will spend approximately 30 minutes on the water teaching you about boat usage and safe boating practices including recognizing lake markers and boating etiquette. Our goal is for you to have fun safely and stay in compliance with SC boating laws.

Can I bring food on the boat?

Of course! You are welcome to bring food and stop along the way for a picnic or a snack. Some great landing areas on Lake Murray include Hilton Rec Area, Dreher Island State Park, Sandy Beach, Larry Koon Rec Area and River Bend Rec Area.

Can I bring a grill on the boat?

We have a no cooking policy on all of our boats. For insurance reasons, NO grill is allowed to be transported on any boat – even if you do not plan to use it on the boat.

Is there some place to stop for lunch?

You can stop for lunch at the Rusty Anchor Restaurant, Liberty Tap Room on the Lake, Timberlake Country Club or Buckaroo’s Grill & Bar. The Lake Shack, Waterdog Café, Sand Bar Grille, Buffalo Creek Marina & Grill and Charlie’s Fishermans Wharf Restaurant provide a destination for those who want to see the far end of the lake.