Boat Rentals & Aquatic Adventures at Fay’s Boat Yard in Gilford - Manchester, New Hampshire

Boat Rentals & Aquatic Adventures at Fay’s Boat Yard in Gilford

Manchester, New Hampshireeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

varies; typically 2–6 hours or full day

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion unless handling smaller boats solo.

Overview

Fay’s Boat Yard in Gilford, NH, offers versatile boat rentals on Lake Winnipesaukee, from sleek center consoles to spacious pontoons. Discover why this spot is a must-visit for water lovers seeking adventure or relaxation.

Details

Gilford, New Hampshire, sits on the southern shore of Lake Winnipesaukee, the largest lake in the state and a hub for water-based recreation in New England. Fay’s Boat Yard offers a range of boat rentals designed to maximize your time on these expansive, glacier-carved waters. From nimble 20' Wellcraft center consoles with 150hp engines for spirited cruising and fishing, to the more powerful 21' Glastron Sport Bowrider equipped with 250hp for watersports and family outings, each vessel suits a different lake experience.

For relaxed lake days, the 18' and 24' pontoons—with horsepower ranging from 25 to 200hp—provide stable platforms perfect for leisurely cruises, picnics, or group gatherings on the water. Fay’s Boat Yard stands out because it delivers seamless access to one of New Hampshire’s most iconic aquatic playgrounds. The lake itself is renowned for its intricate shoreline, dotted with islands, inlets, and bays framed by the surrounding White Mountains’ foothills.

Beyond the thrill of boating, this area offers views of volcanic pink granite formations along the lake’s edges, and opportunities to spot local wildlife including bald eagles and loons. Established in the mid-20th century, Lake Winnipesaukee has a rich history tied to Native American lore and 19th-century summer camps and resorts. Fay’s Boat Yard is more than a rental service; it’s a gateway to engaging with this distinctive environment on your own terms.

Whether you’re maneuvering the boat yourself or heading out with a small group, Fay’s provides solid craft well maintained to navigate the lake’s open waters and quieter coves. The company’s location in Gilford makes it an accessible launch point for visitors staying in larger nearby centers or regional towns. For outdoor lovers who prioritize versatility, variety, and local sensibility, Fay’s Boat Yard delivers a vital connection to one of New England’s premier freshwater destinations.

Adventure Tips

Check Weather Conditions Before Launch

Lake weather can shift quickly; review forecasts to avoid strong winds or storms.

Bring a Personal Floatation Device

Life jackets are required and ensure safety, especially on more powerful boats.

Plan Fuel and Range

Confirm fuel capacity before heading far offshore—Lake Winnipesaukee covers 72 square miles.

Respect No-Wake Zones

Areas near marinas and certain bays enforce no-wake limits to protect wildlife and shorelines.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • China Islands—a cluster of small islands with quiet coves for anchoring
  • Harvey’s Point—a scenic spot with unusual geological outcrops and eagle nesting sites

Wildlife

  • Bald Eagles soaring above the lake
  • Common Loons vocalizing near shorelines

History

Lake Winnipesaukee was a vital resource for Abenaki tribes and later became a favored summer retreat during the early 1900s.

Conservation

Efforts to maintain water quality focus on managing boat traffic and controlling shoreline development, protecting the lake’s fragile ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
early morning
late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Moultonborough Neck
  • Weirs Beach area
  • near Chinook Island

What to Photograph

lake vistas
boating action
wildlife such as loons and eagles

Recommended Gear

Life Jacket

Essential

Mandatory for safety while on any vessel.

summer specific

Sunglasses with UV Protection

Essential

Protect your eyes from glare off the water.

summer specific

Windbreaker Jacket

Lightweight protection against lake breezes in cooler weather.

spring|fall specific

Dry Bag

Keep phones, wallets, and keys safe from water splashes.

summer specific