What types of watercraft are available for rental?

Memories Traverse City offers double-decker pontoons with waterslides, classic pontoons, deck boats, jet skis (various models), kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards.

Do I need prior boating experience to rent a jet ski?

Operators must have completed a Michigan Boater Safety Course if born after 1988 and hold a valid driver's license; no prior experience is required but basic operation training is provided.

Is delivery included with the rental?

Delivery to most lakes in Grand Traverse and Leelanau Counties is included; some remote locations may incur a small delivery fee.

Are life jackets included?

Yes, a wide range of adult life jackets are provided; customers are encouraged to bring child life jackets they find comfortable.

What is the fuel policy for motorized boats and jet skis?

Watercraft must be returned with the same fuel level as at delivery; otherwise, a $60 refueling fee applies.

Can I bring my pet on the boat?

Pets are allowed on pontoon and double-decker rentals only. Additional cleaning fees may apply.

Northern Michigan Watercraft Rentals by Memories Traverse City | Boat Tour | Water Activities

Adventure Brief

Take to the lakes of Northern Michigan with Memories Traverse City’s versatile watercraft rentals. From double-decker pontoons with slides to high-speed jet skis, discover your ideal way to experience Grand Traverse and Leelanau Counties’ sparkling waters.

4 hours

easy

From $502.88

Traverse City, Michigan, perched on the cusp of the inland seas that define Grand Traverse Bay, offers one of the Midwest’s most dynamic freshwater playgrounds. Memories Traverse City taps into this aquatic adventure capital by delivering a fleet of watercraft rentals ranging from leisurely pontoons to adrenaline-charged jet skis. Their signature Wilderness Water Experience is a four-hour rental that invites visitors to command everything from double-decker pontoons with slides to nimble stand-up paddleboards, carving out personalized lake days on the expansive waters of Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Torch, and Crystal Lake.

What sets Memories Traverse City apart is its dedication to accessibility and variety. Whether you’re chasing thrills atop a Sea-Doo RXP 230 zipping across crystalline waves or seeking calm in a single kayak navigating the shoreline’s hidden coves, there’s a ride suited for your pace and party size. Their double-decker pontoons, equipped with waterslides, redefine family outings and celebrations—turning simple boat rentals into multi-level floating parties. Delivery service across the region makes for a seamless start, as watercraft appear at your preferred dock or rental property.

These lakes themselves boast clear glacial origins, framed by mixed hardwood forests and the distinctive Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore nearby. Visitors often spot osprey hunting overhead or the occasional bald eagle perched high. This connection to nature complements Memories Traverse City's focus on sustainability, encouraging low-impact water use and environmental respect.

With safety gear spanning a wide range of sizes and thorough operational briefings, beginners and seasoned riders alike can feel confident heading out onto the water. From casual paddlers to speed demons wanting to blast the bay’s open reaches, this rental experience captures the spirit and diversity of Northern Michigan’s outdoor scene with authentic local flavor.

About Memories Traverse City

Memories Traverse City is a recreation and rental company based in Traverse City, Michigan. The business provides a range of water and off‑road experiences designed for families, groups, and individual adventurers.

Water options include DoubleDecker pontoon rentals with slides, Sea‑Doo GTI 130 jet ski rentals, and the O'Brien VooDoo knee board for wake sports. Off‑road offerings use a 2025 Polaris UTV and ATV fleet and include one‑hour through six‑hour rentals, multi‑hour guided tours, and four‑day rentals for extended exploration. The 1.5‑hour guided tour features the latest 2025 Polaris fleet for trail discovery, while the Kalkaska Experience combines side‑by‑side driving with a meal at Trout Town Tavern & Eatery. Vehicles feature modern technology and climate‑controlled cabins on select models to enhance comfort on scenic routes. Rentals list options for beginners through experienced riders, with several experiences noting no previous off‑road experience required. Night rides are available for select off‑road adventures, and pontoons provide spacious upper decks for relaxation and slides for active fun on the water. Booking options accommodate short excursions and multi‑day trips, enabling customized schedules. By offering both guided tours and self‑guided rentals across watercraft and off‑road vehicles, Memories Traverse City delivers a flexible lineup in Northern Michigan. The business focuses on providing up‑to‑date equipment, a variety of trip lengths, and family‑friendly experiences in and around Traverse City. Sea‑Doo GTI 130 rentals include a learning mode for new riders, while the O'Brien VooDoo knee board offers padded straps and an EVA pad for enhanced comfort, control and stability. Included.