Adventure Collective Logo
Pontoon Boat Rentals at Lake Carlos Marina in Minnesota - Alexandria

Pontoon Boat Rentals at Lake Carlos Marina in Minnesota

Carloseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

5 hours to 7 days

Fitness Level

Minimal physical effort required; suitable for all fitness levels.

Overview

Experience waterside relaxation and fun aboard “THE ERNIE,” an 18-foot pontoon at Lake Carlos Marina. Perfect for groups up to eight, this rental combines comfort, safety, and freedom on Minnesota’s shimmering Lake Carlos.

Carlos, Minnesota

“THE ERNIE” 18' BENTLEY PONTOON WITH CANOPY - 50 HP MOTOR

Ages 21+ up to Book • 1/2 Day-7 Days • Perfect for up to 8 people!

Boat Rental

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable water adventure with our mandatory watercraft rental course, designed for those 21 and older. After certification, enjoy renting a pontoon for half or full days, perfect for up to 8 friends. Bring your own music and refreshments for a memorable 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 8 people.

1/2 day (5 hours): $265

Full Day (11 hours): $350

*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 Required Rental Course

All operators must finish the mandatory watercraft rental certification to rent and drive pontoons safely.

Watch for Underwater Hazards

Keep an eye out for logs, rocks, and shallow areas to avoid damage to the propeller and ladder.

Adhere to Capacity Limits

Pontoons can hold up to 8 passengers; overloading leads to fines and rental termination.

Bring Your Own Refreshments and Music

Enjoy your day on the water by bringing coolers and speakers—personalize your pontoon experience.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bald eagles often soar overhead
  • Loons frequently seen on Lake Carlos

History

Lake Carlos has been a popular recreation spot since the establishment of Lake Carlos State Park in 1937.

Conservation

The marina and local authorities emphasize responsible boating practices to protect water quality and habitat integrity on Lake Carlos.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Alexandria

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

Essential

Life jackets are required for safety, provided with the rental.

summer specific

Sunscreen

Essential

Protect skin from prolonged sun exposure while on the open water.

summer specific

Waterproof Speaker

Enhances your day with personal music to set the perfect boat vibe.

summer specific

Cooler with Refreshments

Keep drinks and snacks cold for an enjoyable day on the lake.

summer specific