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Pontoons & Watercraft Fun at Lake Carlos Marina - Alexandria, MN

Pontoons & Watercraft Fun at Lake Carlos Marina

Carloseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

Half day to full day or week-long rentals

Fitness Level

Minimal physical exertion required; suitable for most adults

Overview

Rent a spacious pontoon boat at Lake Carlos Marina and enjoy a full day on the water with friends or family. Complete a quick boating course and set out on serene Lake Carlos for an easy, safe, and fun adventure.

Carlos, Minnesota

“THE CHAMP” 22’ CREST PONTOON WITH CANOPY - 25 HP MOTOR

Ages 21+ up to Book • 1/2 Day-7 Days • Perfect for up to 10 people!

Boat Rental

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About This Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable water adventure with our mandatory watercraft rental course, designed for those 21 and older. Gain certification valid for 180 days and enjoy renting our spacious pontoons for up to 10 people. Bring your own music and refreshments for a perfect day on the water!

Watercraft Rental Course

Watercraft rental course is MANDATORY

The rental course is for those 21 years or older who want to rent and/or operate our rental pontoons.

Certification through the rental course is valid for 180 days and intended for those who do not already possess a valid watercraft operator’s permit.

After completion of the course you have the option of immediately printing out the Minnesota watercraft rental certificate or retaining a digital copy on your mobile device.

Please Visit this site to complete the course https://www.boaterexam.com/usa/minnesotarental/

Duration

1/2 Day-7 Days

About

Perfect for up to 10 people.

1/2 day (5 hours): $260

Full day (11 hours): $345

*Prices increase by $100/ half day and full day from June 27th through the July 7th

Guests are encouraged to bring their own speaker and coolers.

For rentals over 7 days please call to book

Damages:

Damages will be your responsibility. Please keep a lookout for logs, rocks, and shallow spots. These will damage the propeller and the ladder if it is left down.

Rules & Fees:

These are not meant to keep you from having a good time on the water, but to keep our boats in the best condition as possible. We want everyone to have fun, and these were put into place to help ensure that.

• Damaged prop: $100-$250 (depending on level of damage) • Overloading Fee (over capacity): $200 and rental is forfeited • Damaged canopy: $400-$1000 (depending on level of damage) • Missing PFDs: $50.00 each • Ladder damaged: $200-$400 (depending on level of damage) • Ladder lost: $400 • Cleaning fee (gum, stains, bait debris): $50 • Service fee: $80

Cleaning Fee:

A cleaning fee will be charged if the boat is not returned in the same or close to the same condition it was in when it was rented. If the boat is returned in a manner in which it will require extra effort to clean than usual (extra amounts of mud, worm dirt, food, gum, stains, left trash, etc.) there will be a charge of $50.00.

Pets:

No pets are allowed (registered service animals are the exception and you must show proper paperwork.) PLEASE be respectful of other renters. If you decide to sneak a pet on the boat, we will catch you, and you will be charged a $200 fine plus a $50 cleaning fee along with any damages.

Overloading:

It is against the law to overload the boat past maximum capacity. You are not only risking getting a ticket, but the safety of those on board. If we discover a boat is overloaded, your rental will end immediately, you will be fined $200 from us and receive no refund.

Alcohol Consumption:

Operator of the watercraft is NOT allowed to consume alcohol - same rules apply as if you were on a road. Please be responsible and have a designated driver. No kegs are allowed. If you are pulled over by law enforcement, caught by us, or we get calls from other boaters on the water about your conduct you will immediately be brought back to the Marina and your rental ended. You will NOT be refunded or given a time credit. We do NOT tolerate any unsafe and disorderly behavior of any kind!

Service Fee:

You will be charged a $80 service charge plus parts if an employee is required to come out to help you if the issue is not the fault of Lake Carlos Marina.

Adventure Tips

Complete the Mandatory Rental Course

Certification is required for renting and operating pontoons and must be done before your trip.

Bring Your Own Speaker and Cooler

Customize your day with music and refreshments, but remember to pack out all trash to keep the lake clean.

Watch for Shallow Areas and Underwater Logs

Propellers are vulnerable to damage; stay alert and avoid hazards to prevent costly repairs.

Respect Capacity Limits

Do not exceed the 10-person maximum—overloading risks safety and incurs penalties.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bald eagles
  • Great blue herons

History

Lake Carlos derives its name from early settlers and has been a recreational destination since the early 20th century.

Conservation

The marina encourages responsible boating practices to protect the lake’s water quality and local habitats.

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Adventure Hotspots in Alexandria, MN

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Life Jackets (PFDs)

Essential

Safety first—life jackets are mandatory for everyone on board.

summer specific

Sun Protection

Essential

Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to shield from strong sun exposure.

summer specific

Waterproof Speaker

Enhance your day with music while aboard the pontoon boat.

summer specific

Cooler with Refreshments

Pack your own drinks and snacks for a pleasant, self-sufficient trip.

summer specific