Renting 101

Frequently Asked Questions

How old do I have to be to rent and drive the boat?
21 Years of Age or Older.

What time can we rent the boat?
Rentals are for 8 hours per day, needing to be returned by dusk. Most rentals begin between 10:00 am and 12:00 noon.

How much is the damage deposit?
A $750 damage deposit on a major credit card is required on the day of rental. Physical damage to the boat is at the renter’s expense and will be assessed upon boat return with a Brainerd Lakes Best Rental staff person. If there is no damage upon rental return, the $750 deposit is returned back to the renter.

What do I need to rent a boat?
A valid driver’s license and major credit card.

Do I need experience to drive the boat?
Boating experience is helpful, however, we provide training tools for a successful boating experience. For an additional fee, one of our skippers can be available to provide you a worry-free lake experience.

Can we bring food/beverages on the boat?
Yes, but consider space when packing a coolers and additional items.
Grills and other barbeque are not allowed. There are many restaurants in the area accessible by boat.

What lakes are the boats available on?
Our primary boat renting service covers the Gull Lake Chain, be we will consider any lake in the Lakes Area that has public access including Brainerd to Crosslake area.

How do we get the boat?
On the day of your rental, Brainerd Lakes Best Rental staff will coordinate with you a convenient location for boat launch. We are able to pick up your party or drop the boat off at area cabins, resorts, local establishments or public accesses.

How many people are allowed on the boat?
The maximum capacity on our boats is 10 people per boat.

Are life jackets required?
Yes. All persons on board must have a properly sized life jacket. Boaters 10 years old or under must wear their life jacket once on board and for the duration of their boat ride. We strongly recommend adults who are not strong swimmers also wear their life jacket for the duration of their boat ride. Each boat provides life jackets for the maximum number of boaters on board. Please indicate in your reservation, how many children will be on board.

Is fishing allowed?
Yes, fishing supplies is not provided.

Is swimming allowed off the boat?
Yes, we recommend wearing life jackets while swimming in open water. The boat must be secured by the anchor and the boat needs to be out of traffic areas for swimming.

Are pets allowed?
We love your pets, but unfortunately, they are not allowed on board.

Are water sports allowed?
Water sports are allowed at your own risk.

Do you have a cancellation policy?
A 30-day written notice, with a $100 cancellation fee. Refunds are not permitted within 30 days of the reservation.

What happens if it rains?
Weather-related disruptions to your rental will be considered and negotiated with Brainerd Lakes Best Rental staff.