Pontoon boat rentals turn a sunny day into a floating picnic or a relaxed fishing loop. Because these boats feel open and social, it is easy to forget the basics.
Know The Rules Before You Go
Every area has its own boating regulations. Check operator age limits, speed and no wake zones, and life jacket rules before you leave the dock. Confirm alcohol policies, then set a sober operator for the day. If your route could cross jurisdiction lines, review permits and navigation differences early so you are not guessing on the water.
Pack The Right Safety Gear For Pontoon Boat Rentals
Preparation is protection. Before you start the engine, verify you have the essentials and that everyone knows where they live.
- Coast Guard approved life jackets sized for each passenger
- A throwable flotation device within quick reach
- A working fire extinguisher
- A loud horn or whistle
- Anchor and adequate line
- First aid kit, sunscreen, water, and heat friendly snacks
- Waterproof flashlight and charged phone in a dry bag
- Visual distress signals such as flares or an approved flag
- Bringing a pet. Fit a dog life jacket with a sturdy handle and keep paws clear of gates and ladders.
Check Weather Early, Then Keep Watching
Start with a marine forecast. Watch for wind shifts, building clouds, and temperature drops that hint at changing conditions. Because weather can turn fast, set a conservative go or no go time. If lightning appears or whitecaps build, head for shelter immediately. Safety is the win, not bravado.
Boarding, Seating, And Moving Around
Pontoon rentals in Myrtle Beach SC are stable, yet balance still matters. Board one at a time, keep weight centered, and stow coolers and bags low. While underway, have guests seated with hands inside the rails. Never ride on the bow outside the fencing. If someone needs to move, slow down and say it out loud so the captain can steady the boat.
Propeller And Swim Safety
Shut the engine off before anyone enters the water, then remove the key or disable the safety lanyard. Post a lookout near the ladder. When restarting, scan 360 degrees for swimmers, lines, or floating gear. Clear calls between the captain and swimmers prevent close calls and keep the mood relaxed.
Hydration, Heat, And Alcohol
Pontoon boat rental in Myrtle Beach SC
Pack more water than you think you need and rotate people through shaded seats. If your group chooses to drink, keep it light and maintain a sober operator. Good decisions at the helm protect everyone, including other boaters nearby.
Navigation Basics For Pontoon Boat Rentals
Pontoon boat rentals in Myrtle Beach SC like smooth inputs. Accelerate gradually, trim for a level ride, and respect no wake zones. Keep right in channels, yield to vessels with limited maneuverability when applicable, and give paddlecraft a wide berth. In shallow water, idle to avoid stirring sediment, then trim up carefully to prevent prop strikes. When anchoring, pay out enough scope, back down gently to set, and verify you are clear of lanes and swim areas.
Docking Without Drama
Plan your approach with the wind or current in mind. Prepare fenders and lines early, assign simple roles, and enter the slip at idle speed. Make small corrections with brief shifts in and out of gear. A good rule is never to move faster than you are willing to touch the dock.
Emergency Readiness, Simple What If Plans
Talk through quick responses before departure. If the engine stalls, drop anchor so you do not drift into hazards, then troubleshoot or call for help. For a small fire, use the extinguisher immediately and keep everyone low and upwind. If someone falls overboard, point at the person, toss the throwable device, circle from downwind, and shut the engine off before recovery.
A Quick Pre Departure Checklist
- Life jackets fitted, horn tested, extinguisher checked
- Weather and fuel confirmed, float plan texted to a friend
- Navigation lights working, anchor rigged and ready
- Lines stowed, gates latched, ladder secure
- Safety lanyard on the operator, phone and radio charged
FAQ About Pontoon Boat Rentals
Do I need a boater license for pontoon boat rentals
Rules vary by location and age. Some areas accept a temporary safety certificate after a short online course, while others require a full boater education card. Bring photo ID.
How many people can pontoon boat rentals carry
Capacity depends on the plate rating. Typical rental pontoons seat 8 to 12 guests, including children. Follow posted weight and passenger limits for stability.
Are life jackets required for everyone
Yes. Carry a properly sized Coast Guard approved life jacket for every person. Children usually must wear them at all times, and all passengers should wear them while underway.
Can we bring food and drinks
Usually yes. Pack water rich drinks and sun friendly snacks, and use cans instead of glass. Keep trash secure so nothing blows overboard. Always designate a sober operator.
What if the weather turns bad during our time on the water
Head to safe harbor at the first sign of lightning, strong gusts, or building whitecaps. Call the rental desk for guidance. Most operators reschedule official weather cancellations per policy.
Can we swim with the engine idling
No. Shut the engine off and remove the key or use the kill switch before anyone enters the water. Post a lookout and restart only after a full 360 degree scan.
When should we arrive and what should we check
Arrive 20 to 30 minutes early to finish paperwork and fit life jackets. Confirm fuel level, horn, lights, anchor, and the fire extinguisher. Review the route, no wake zones, and return time with staff.
Call Action Water Sportz now to reserve pontoon boat rentals with Action Water Sportz and enjoy an easy, memorable day on the water.
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Action Water Sportz
1525 13th Ave N
North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
(843) 280-4100
https://www.actionwatersportz.com/
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