Pontoon boat rental or lesson for non-boaters

[Smalley]

We're interested in renting a pontoon boat to enjoy the Harris chain of lakes or the Homassassa river. Because we've never owned a boat we thought that a lesson first would be prudent. The marina's say: "Oh so easy we'll just show you when you get here". But we're skeptical and think a lesson would be the wise first move. Any ideas on how to proceed? Thanks to all you Villagers who know about boats!

[Bogie Shooter]

Google search……..
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[photo1902]

We're interested in renting a pontoon boat to enjoy the Harris chain of lakes or the Homassassa river. Because we've never owned a boat we thought that a lesson first would be prudent. The marina's say: "Oh so easy we'll just show you when you get here". But we're skeptical and think a lesson would be the wise first move. Any ideas on how to proceed? Thanks to all you Villagers who know about boats!

Hands down Mt. Dora Marina. They have new model year rentals, which include fuel. You can do a 4 or 8 hour rental. The staff is super friendly, and if you don’t have a navigation app on your phone, there’s a paper map included in the boat.

The pontoon rentals have 70hp outboards, which won’t have you speeding across the lake, but the whole point of a day on the water is to enjoy the beautiful scenery. The pontoons also have motorized Bimini tops, so you can be under the shade in less than a minute (or when going through the Dora Canal).

If you’ve never operated a boat, they will give you an overview before leaving the dock.
I highly recommend renting from Mt Dora Marina as opposed to the others.

[Pondboy]

We're interested in renting a pontoon boat to enjoy the Harris chain of lakes or the Homassassa river. Because we've never owned a boat we thought that a lesson first would be prudent. The marina's say: "Oh so easy we'll just show you when you get here". But we're skeptical and think a lesson would be the wise first move. Any ideas on how to proceed? Thanks to all you Villagers who know about boats!

It all depends on your experience level and comfort. If you’ve never been on a small boat before, it can be stressful ; docking, right of way, other boats and navigating.

So if it’s all new to you, I’d suggest looking into a guided tour on the lakes. No need to be stressed out and not having a good time playing captain. This way you can sit back, relax and enjoy your day. Driving a boat can be no fun if there’s a lot of traffic or if the seas are choppy.

If you’re a beginner, this will give you a good taste as to what’s required to operate a boat on a lake. Save the rental for another day.

[Smalley]

Thanks for the suggestion of Mt Dora Marina. Also thanks for good advice to take a guided boat tour. We live near these beautiful lakes and we want to enjoy them.