Discover the best water adventures in Madison with Madison Boats. Whether you’re after relaxing cruises or exhilarating speedboat rides, they make your lake day unforgettable.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–4 hours
Fitness Level
All levels welcome, no special fitness required
Wildlife
History
Lake Monona has been central to Madison’s water recreation since the early 1900s, shaping the city’s connection to its waterways.
Conservation
Madison Boats actively promotes eco-friendly boating practices, including strict waste disposal and engine emissions standards to protect Lake Monona’s health.
Madison Boats
Discover the best water adventures in Madison with Madison Boats. Whether you’re after relaxing cruises or exhilarating speedboat rides, they make your lake day unforgettable.
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.
Check boat availability early
Book your trip well in advance, especially during peak summer months, to secure your preferred vessel and time slot.
Wear sunscreen and hats
Protect yourself from the sun during extended hours on the water to avoid sunburn and heat exhaustion.
Bring safety gear
Ensure life jackets and other safety equipment are accessible for all passengers, especially during water sports.
Plan for weather changes
Check the forecast before heading out and be prepared for sudden changes, such as rain or wind, that could impact your trip.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from UV rays during water outings.
summer
Waterproof bag
Keep your valuables dry while on the boat.
summer
Hat and sunglasses
Shield your eyes and face from intense sunlight.
summer
Swimwear
Perfect for water sports or cooling off during trip.
summer