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Pontoon Rentals at Lake Carlos Marina in Minnesota - St. Cloud

Pontoon Rentals at Lake Carlos Marina in Minnesota

Carloseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

5–11 hours

Fitness Level

Low fitness needed; suitable for all ages and abilities

Overview

Rent a 22-foot pontoon for up to 11 passengers at Lake Carlos Marina, Minnesota’s premier spot for watercraft rentals. Complete the easy online course and set out on serene waters with confidence.

Carlos, Minnesota

“THE JAMAICA” 22' Jamaica Pontoon with Canopy - 50 hp motor

Ages 21+ up to Book • 1/2 Day-7 Days • Plush seats & perfect for up to 11 people!

Boat Rental

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About This Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our mandatory watercraft rental course, designed for those 21 and older. Perfect for groups of up to 11, enjoy the freedom of renting a pontoon for half a day or a full day. Complete the course online and hit the water with confidence!

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 11 people.

1/2 day (5 hours): $275

Full day (11 hours): $355

*Prices increase by $100/ half day and full day from June 29th through the July 7th

Guests are encouraged to bring their own speaker and coolers.

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

All renters 21+ must finish the online watercraft rental certification before pickup to ensure safe operation.

Watch for Shallow Areas and Logs

Keep a close eye on water depth and floating logs to avoid propeller damage and costly fees.

Limit Passengers to 11

Overloading beyond 11 passengers is illegal and voids the rental; respect capacity for safety.

Bring Your Own Cooler and Speakers

While the boat is well-equipped, guests are encouraged to pack refreshments and sound systems for a personalized experience.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bald eagles soaring above
  • White-tailed deer along the shoreline

History

Lake Carlos was named after a local pioneer and has long served as a centerpiece for recreation in central Minnesota.

Conservation

Lake Carlos Marina promotes responsible boating practices to protect native fish habitats and preserve water quality.

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Adventure Hotspots in St. Cloud

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Sunglasses

Essential

Protect your eyes from glare bouncing off the water during sunny days.

summer specific

Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

Essential

Always wear a life vest to stay safe on the water—provided by the marina.

Waterproof Speaker

Bring music along to enhance your pontoon experience—just keep volume respectful.

summer specific

Reusable Cooler

Keep drinks and snacks chilled during your trip for comfort and convenience.