Can we water ski or tube ?
Unfortunately, our insurance does not allow for towing of any kind.
Do I need a license or experience to rent a boat ?
No boating license is necessary to rent a boat, and the driver MUST be at least 25 years old and have a valid driver’s license. Prior boating experience is helpful but we will take the time to make sure you are comfortable before leaving the dock. We rent to first time boaters as long as they feel confident in their ability to navigate and operate the boat. First timers might want to consider our 16’ boat as it is smaller and easier to handle.
What will you tell us before we go out ?
After checking in, one of our staff members will show you to your boat to go over all of the USCG required safety equipment on the boat. Then we will go over how to operate the outboard motor, the rental boundaries, how to read local charts, using the red and green buoys to navigate, and a basic explanation of the GPS to aid in your navigation. Keep note about GPS the same
Do the boats have something to keep us out of the sun ?
Yes, all of our boats with the exception of the 16’ have sun tops that can be taken down if you want to enjoy the sunshine.
Can we fish ?
Absolutely! Bring your own gear as we do not have fishing poles or bait available here. If you need to pick some up before your rental, less than one mile from us on Route 28 is Riverview Bait & Tackle where they can provide their local knowledge about tackle & where the fish are. Common local fish are Striped Bass, Blue Fish, Fluke, and Sea Bass.
Can we bring our dog ?
Yes, we also have life jackets available for small dogs. They may even encounter one of the Ship Shops pups!
Where can we go during our rental?
Depending on the size of your boat and your experience we allow up to 10 miles of travel from the mouth of Bass River. With that, you can venture off to Harwichport, Chatham, Hyannis, and depending on the weather conditions Monomoy Island. There is also 3 miles worth of Bass River to explore, showcasing beautiful boats, homes, and nature.
Unfortunately, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard are out of the 10-mile limit.
Is there any place we can go by boat to eat?
Yes. Right on Bass River you can go up to Sundancer’s or the Summer Shanty. In Hyannis (approx. 1 hour by boat) there is Tugboats, and the most popular destination of Baxter’s Fish & Chips.
Are there beaches we can get to by boat ?
Yes. At the mouth of Bass River is what is fondly referred to as “Boater’s Beach” 1 mile from our docks. With favorable weather conditions, you can reach Monomoy Island on the west side where you can walk about 100 yards to a beautiful protected beach (strict government regulations apply to Monomoy Island, please inquire with questions). In Hyannis there is Egg Island accessible for approximately 3 hours on each side of low tide. You can also anchor and swim just about anywhere in Bass River and Nantucket Sound. Don’t worry, no sharks! The water temperature in Bass River ranges from high 60s in June to the low 80s in early August.
How early should we arrive before our rental starts? What time do we need to return the boat?
Morning and Full Day rentals can arrive anytime after 8:15 AM with an approximate departure of 9:00 AM. Afternoon rentals should arrive anytime after 12:30 PM with an approximate 1:00 PM departure.
Morning rentals MUST be back by 12:30 PM and Afternoon and Full Day rentals MUST be back by 4:45 PM. Late charges apply if the boat is returned after the listed time.
What should we bring with us ?
Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, water, snacks or lunch, beach towels, cameras, cell phones (yes, there is service out on the water!), speakers, and anything else you need to have a great time on the water. WE DO NOT ALLOW ALCOHOL ON BOARD.
How much gas will I burn ?
The amount of fuel burned depends on how far and how fast you go. The Half Day rentals average to about 9 gallons and the Full Day rentals average about 15 gallons. Please keep in mind, marine fuel costs are typically a higher price per gallon than automotive gas. Our boats leave the dock with a full tank and are immediately refilled upon your return.
Massachusetts Boating Law Summary - Click Here