Sail under the glow of the full moon on Lake Mendota with a private three-hour pontoon cruise. Relax, snack, and soak in the serene night in Middleton, Wisconsin.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels with minimal physical exertion required
Wildlife
History
Lake Mendota has been integral to the region's Native American heritage and later the city of Madison's development as a recreational hub.
Conservation
Madison Boats actively promotes eco-friendly boating practices to protect Lake Mendota's water quality and natural habitats.
Madison Boats
Sail under the glow of the full moon on Lake Mendota with a private three-hour pontoon cruise. Relax, snack, and soak in the serene night in Middleton, Wisconsin.
Madison Boats is a boat rental and guided-experience provider based in Middleton, Wisconsin. The company operates pontoon rentals, captained pontoon charters, and paddleboard and kayak rentals that serve Lake Mendota, Lake Wingra, and local launch points including Marshall Boats and The Edgewater. Madison Boats offers a range of trip types to suit anglers, families, groups, and paddlers: fishing-ready pontoons equipped for up to eight anglers, captained pontoons departing from Marshall Boats and The Edgewater, a spacious 12-passenger pontoon for larger gatherings, and short hourly or multi-hour paddle and member rental options.
Each offering includes clear trip descriptions, available durations, and suggested destinations such as Picnic Point, Downtown Madison, Monona Bay, Spring Harbor, and Pheasant Branch Conservancy. Fishing pontoons come with rod holders, storage, and fish finder equipment to support a productive day on the water. Captained charters provide a licensed captain for a relaxed, stress-free experience. Paddle rentals are suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers and include staff guidance when requested.
Madison Boats focuses on safe, local lake experiences with options for private groups and casual outings. Reservations and scheduling are managed through established local launch partners. The company’s presence in Middleton positions it to serve residents and visitors seeking accessible access to Madison’s lakes and waterfront attractions. Madison Boats offers flexible booking windows, seasonal availability, and routine equipment maintenance; it operates within local boating and safety regulations and coordinates with launch partners to confirm reservation details, ensuring clarity about start times, return policies, and required member or tax-exempt documentation.
Location
Middleton, WI
Serving Middleton and Lake Mendota area
Boat Types
Pontoon & Paddle
Pontoon rentals and paddle options
Capacity
Up to 12
Options for small to large groups
Trip Options
Hourly & Captained
One-hour to multi-hour, captained available
Select a captained cruise, fishing pontoon, or hourly paddle rental from Madison Boats and confirm availability with local launch partners.
Bring Warm Layers
Even summer nights on the water can get chilly, so pack a jacket or blanket to stay comfortable.
Pack Your Own Snacks and Drinks
Food and beverages aren't provided, so bring your favorite treats for the perfect night on the water.
Arrive Early for Check-in
Arriving 15 minutes early helps ensure a smooth boarding process and on-time departure.
Prepare for Limited Cell Service
Depending on your location on the lake, cell reception may be spotty—plan accordingly.
Warm Jacket or Blanket
To keep warm during cooler evening breezes on the water.
summer
Non-Alcoholic Beverages and Snacks
Bring your favorite refreshments as none are provided onboard.
Bug Spray
Protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects common near water at dusk.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
Capture stunning moonlit views and memories from the cruise.