What license do I need to rent a boat in Los Angeles?

California law requires a California Boater Card for operating motorized boats. Check our detailed licensing guide for specific requirements, or opt for a skippered charter if you don't have a license.

How much does it cost to rent a boat in Los Angeles?

Prices vary by season with sailboats ranging from $350-$600/day in low season to $500-$800/day in summer. Catamarans cost $600-$900/day off-peak and $800-$1,200/day peak. Motor yachts start at $1,200/day off-peak up to $2,000+/day in summer.

What's the best time to sail in Los Angeles?

The prime sailing season is May through October, with steady winds of 10-15 knots and temperatures around 75°F (24°C). Popular routes include Catalina Island, Marina del Rey, and Newport Beach, with year-round sailing possible thanks to LA's mild climate.

What additional costs should I expect for a Los Angeles boat rental?

Budget for mandatory end-cleaning ($150-$600), security deposit ($1,000-$5,000 or insurance for $150-$400), marina fees ($2-4/ft per night, 50% extra for catamarans), and local taxes. Many of our boats offer special discounts and flexible payment plans.

Do you offer skippered charters in Los Angeles?

Yes! We provide bareboat, skippered, and crewed options. Professional skippers cost around $350/day. Perfect for new sailors or those wanting a relaxing experience. We can arrange any type of charter through our worldwide network.

What's your cancellation policy?

Select boats offer extended free cancellation periods. We also provide a unique 3-installment payment plan with just 15% down payment, making booking more flexible and affordable. Each boat's specific terms are clearly listed on its page.

What support services do you offer in Los Angeles?

We provide airport transfers , provisioning services, and comprehensive charter insurance . Our local team can assist with route planning, weather updates, and 24/7 support throughout your charter.

Boat Rental and Yacht Charter in Los Angeles

A sprawling city known for Hollywood, iconic beaches, diverse culture, and the glamorous Beverly Hills.

Our Highest Reviewed Boats in Los Angeles

Highest reviewed boats

Los Angeles, United States (the)
Beneteau First 285
Sailboat
2003
8.5 m long
Crew obligatory
Semi batten mainsail
From$1,246/day
Los Angeles, United States (the)
Azimut 60
Motorboat
2001
18 m long
Crew obligatory
25 kn max speed
710 hp engine
From$9,005/day
Los Angeles, United States (the)
Amer 95
Motorboat
2015
28 m long
Crew obligatory
From$16,627/day
Los Angeles, United States (the)
Admiral XL
Motorboat
2018
38 m long
Crew obligatory
15 kn max speed
From$10,392/day
Los Angeles, United States (the)
Sun Coast Marine Leight Star
Motorboat
1984
43.6 m long
Crew obligatory
15 kn max speed
From$19,398/day
Los Angeles, United States (the)
Beneteau Oceanis 383
Sailboat
1998
4 beds
2 cabins
2 bathrooms
11.7 m long
Captain provided
Semi batten mainsail
From$1,351/day

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Join our community of satisfied boaters. Rated 4.8/5 based on thousands of verified reviews.

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Speedboat navigating around boats in marina

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“The company offers personalized guidance for finding the best deals. Their assistance was crucial for my first self-skippered sailing vacation.”
Yeshekel S.
Israel
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Portugal
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Switzerland
“Borrow A Boat's support made our Saronic Islands cruise exceptional, turning it into an annual tradition.”
James D.
United Kingdom
“Giulia quickly found a good yacht at a fair price. The boat owner was responsive. I'll consider using Borrow A Boat again.”
Henry
France
“I chartered a boat for the first time and I am thrilled with the service. I received personal advice from a very friendly and competent lady and was able to contact the same employee with my questions repeatedly, either in writing or by phone.”
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Christian M.
Germany
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Ireland
“Booking our gulet trip with Eray was an absolute pleasure from start to finish. He was incredibly responsive, patient, and knowledgeable, answering all our questions and helping us find the perfect vessel for our needs.”
MC
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Switzerland
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Germany
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Italy
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United Arab Emirates
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United States

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Select Your Ideal Boat Type

Three Ways to Sail in Los Angeles

Explore Los Angeles with our yacht charters and boat rentals suited for all experience levels. From bareboat options for seasoned sailors to skippered and fully crewed experiences, plus license-free boats for beginners, we offer the perfect vessel to discover Los Angeles's beautiful waters your way.

Bareboat / Captain Optional

Ideal for experienced sailors seeking complete freedom and control for their Los Angeles yacht rental experience.

•Complete control over sailing itinerary around Los Angeles
•Privacy and intimacy for your group
•Opportunities to improve sailing skills in Los Angeles's waters
•Cost-effective boat rental option for larger groups

Show all bareboat rentals in Los Angeles

Skippered / Captain Mandatory

Perfect for those seeking a balance of freedom and expert guidance while enjoying a boat rental in Los Angeles.

•Professional navigation and safety with local Los Angeles expertise
•Local knowledge and recommendations for hidden gems in Los Angeles
•Relaxed sailing experience in the beautiful waters of Los Angeles
•No license required for your Los Angeles yacht charter adventure

Show all skippered rentals in Los Angeles

Fully Crewed

The ultimate luxury yacht charter experience in Los Angeles with full professional service.

•Complete relaxation and comfort throughout your Los Angeles boat journey
•Professional crew service tailored to your needs
•Gourmet dining experience featuring local Los Angeles cuisine
•Personalized itinerary planning to explore the best of Los Angeles

Show all crewed charters in Los Angeles

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Discover the Magic of Los Angeles with a Boat Charter

Experience the stunning California coastline from a unique perspective with a Los Angeles boat charter. From the bustling Marina del Rey to the serene waters of Catalina Island, LA offers year-round sailing opportunities with perfect weather, beautiful beaches, and incredible marine life encounters.

Flexible Booking That Fits Your Plans
Book your LA boat charter with confidence using our flexible payment options, including a 3-installment plan with just 15% down. Select boats offer free cancellation up to 30 days before departure, and our exclusive early booking discounts help you save on your dream sailing vacation.
The Perfect Boat for Every Adventure
Whether you're planning a sunset cruise around Newport Beach or a week-long expedition to Catalina Island, we've got the right boat for you. Choose from luxury motor yachts starting at $600/day, comfortable sailboats from $400/day, or spacious catamarans perfect for group outings.
Year-Round Sailing Paradise
Los Angeles boasts over 300 days of sunshine annually, with steady afternoon sea breezes perfect for sailing. Popular routes include day trips to Paradise Cove, weekend escapes to Two Harbors, and coastal cruises along Malibu's stunning shoreline.
Complete Charter Support
Our local partnerships ensure a smooth sailing experience from start to finish. We arrange reliable airport transfers, connect you with experienced local skippers, and offer comprehensive charter insurance through Sealogy for peace of mind on the water.
Something for Everyone
From whale watching off the Channel Islands to romantic sunset sails near Venice Beach, LA's waters offer endless possibilities. First-time sailors can enjoy skippered charters, while experienced captains can take advantage of our bareboat options after showing proper licensing.

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The Borrow A Boat Promise

We Make Boating in Los Angeles Easy

Experience the ultimate yacht charter and boat rental in Los Angeles with our seamless booking platform. From luxury vessels to affordable options, discover the perfect boat for your Los Angeles adventure today.

Secure online payments: Book your Los Angeles boat rental with confidence through our protected payment system, ensuring your transaction is safe and worry-free.
Avoid endless back-and-forth with brokers: Our streamlined platform connects you directly with verified boat owners in Los Angeles, saving you time and hassle when booking your perfect vessel.
Book your charter within minutes: Our user-friendly system lets you secure your Los Angeles yacht charter instantly, with immediate confirmation and all details at your fingertips.
Best offers on 1000s of boats: Choose from the largest selection of boat rentals in Los Angeles, with competitive prices and exclusive deals on everything from sailboats to luxury yachts.

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Piqued Your Interest?

Our Favorite Boats in Los Angeles

All Recommended Boats

Los Angeles Yacht Charter Guide

Scenic coastal sailing along Southern California's vibrant coastline with year-round perfect weather

Perfect for:

Urban Sailing

Island Hopping

Coastal Cruising

Information type
High and Low Season
Description
Peak season runs June through September with premium rates. Shoulder season offers better value in spring and fall, while winter brings quieter waters and lower prices.
Best Months to Book:
May, June, September
Information type
Marinas, Ports and Mooring
Description
Multiple world-class marinas dot the LA coastline, from Marina del Rey to Long Beach Harbor. Modern facilities offer full-service amenities and easy ocean access.
Best Places to Stay:
Marina del Rey, Long Beach Marina, Port of Los Angeles
Information type
Wind & Weather
Description
Consistent sunny weather with afternoon sea breezes and minimal rainfall. Morning fog can occur but typically burns off by midday.
Temperature & Winds:
60°F to 85°F, 8-15 knots, Beaufort 3-4
Information type
Required Licenses and Certifications
Description
California Boater Card required for operators under 40. International certificates like ICC accepted for visitors. NAUI or ASA certification recommended for larger vessels.
Best License to Hold:
ASA 101-104, California Boater Card

Currency:
USD
Season:
March - November

Sailing Conditions in Los Angeles

Los Angeles offers year-round sailing opportunities with its Mediterranean climate and diverse coastal waters. From the protected harbors of Marina del Rey to the adventurous Channel Islands, LA's 72-mile coastline provides excellent sailing conditions throughout the year. The peak sailing season runs from May to October, when conditions are most favorable and predictable.

Wind Conditions

•Marina del Rey experiences consistent afternoon sea breezes averaging 10-15 knots (Beaufort 3-4), typically building around noon and peaking mid-afternoon
•Long Beach area sees steady westerly winds of 12-18 knots (Beaufort 4-5) during summer afternoons, with lighter morning conditions
•San Pedro Bay typically experiences thermal winds of 8-14 knots (Beaufort 3-4), with stronger conditions near the breakwater
•Catalina Channel can experience more challenging conditions with winds up to 20-25 knots (Beaufort 5-6), especially during summer afternoons
•Winter months can bring variable conditions with occasional strong Santa Ana winds reaching 25-35 knots (Beaufort 6-7)

Sea State

•Marina del Rey offers protected waters with wave heights typically under 2 ft (0.6 m) inside the harbor
•Santa Monica Bay experiences average wave heights of 3-5 ft (0.9-1.5 m) with occasional larger swells during winter storms
•Long Beach Harbor provides sheltered conditions with waves usually under 3 ft (0.9 m) thanks to the breakwater
•Catalina Channel can see significant swells of 6-8 ft (1.8-2.4 m), especially during afternoon wind builds
•Winter storms can generate occasional large swells up to 12 ft (3.7 m) in exposed areas

Temperature

•Summer air temperatures range from 65-85°F (18-29°C), with August being the warmest month
•Winter temperatures typically range from 50-70°F (10-21°C)
•Water temperatures vary from 58°F (14°C) in winter to 72°F (22°C) in late summer
•Morning marine layer often burns off by early afternoon, especially during summer months

Tides and Currents

•Tidal range averages 4-6 ft (1.2-1.8 m) with two high and two low tides daily
•Strong currents can occur around breakwaters and harbor entrances, particularly during spring tides
•Catalina Channel experiences consistent northwest-flowing current averaging 0.5-1.5 knots
•Marina del Rey entrance can have significant current during tidal exchanges
•Port of LA/Long Beach area experiences complex current patterns due to port infrastructure

Best Sailing Areas for Different Skill Levels

•Beginners: Marina del Rey main channel and inner harbor, Alamitos Bay in Long Beach, and King Harbor in Redondo Beach offer protected waters with predictable conditions
•Intermediate: Santa Monica Bay, Long Beach outer harbor, and day trips to Palos Verdes Peninsula provide good challenging conditions while remaining close to safe harbor
•Advanced: Catalina Channel crossings, Channel Islands adventures, and offshore racing routes offer challenging conditions and extended sailing opportunities
•Racing enthusiasts can participate in various regattas throughout the year, with courses suitable for different skill levels in Santa Monica Bay and Long Beach Harbor

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Best Time to Rent a Boat in Los Angeles

Los Angeles offers year-round sailing opportunities along its iconic coastline, from Marina del Rey to Long Beach Harbor. With consistent winds, mild temperatures, and protected waters around Catalina Island, LA provides diverse sailing experiences for all skill levels. The region's Mediterranean climate and well-developed marine infrastructure make it an attractive destination for both day sailors and offshore adventurers.

High Season (June through September)

Pros & advantages: •Reliable afternoon sea breezes of 10-15 knots create perfect conditions for sailing to Catalina Island; •Warm temperatures averaging 75°F (24°C) and minimal rainfall ensure comfortable multi-day cruising experiences; •Maximum availability of charter boats and bustling marina atmosphere with numerous sailing events
Cons & disadvantages: •Marina del Rey and Long Beach slips command premium rates with limited availability; •Popular anchorages around Two Harbors and Avalon can become crowded, requiring early arrival; •Morning marine layer (June Gloom) can delay departure times until mid-morning clearing

Shoulder Season (April to May, October to November)

Pros & advantages: •Moderate temperatures around 70°F (21°C) with clearer morning visibility than summer months; •Better deals on charter boats and marina services with good availability and negotiable rates; •Excellent whale watching opportunities during migration periods along coastal routes
Cons & disadvantages: •More variable wind conditions, sometimes requiring motor sailing between Santa Monica Bay points; •Occasional spring storms can create choppy conditions in the San Pedro Channel; •Some seasonal facilities and restaurants on Catalina Island operate with limited hours

Low Season (December through March)

Pros & advantages: •Lowest rates for charters and marina services with maximum flexibility for reservations; •Strong winter storms create exciting conditions for experienced sailors seeking a challenge; •Clear winter days offer spectacular visibility and dramatic coastline views from Palos Verdes
Cons & disadvantages: •Winter storms can bring rain and strong winds up to 25 knots, requiring advanced sailing skills; •Cooler temperatures averaging 65°F (18°C) make wetsuit advisable for water activities; •Shorter daylight hours limit sailing time and require careful passage planning

For most sailors, particularly families and beginners, the high season (June-September) offers the most reliable and comfortable conditions despite higher costs and crowds. Experienced sailors might prefer the shoulder seasons for better value and more challenging conditions. Winter sailing is best suited for advanced sailors who can handle stronger winds and aren't deterred by cooler temperatures. Regardless of season, the protected waters of Marina del Rey and Long Beach Harbor provide year-round sailing opportunities for all skill levels.

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Best Boat Deals in Los Angeles

Best Deals

Which Boat to Charter in Los Angeles?

When planning a yacht charter in Los Angeles, selecting the right type of boat is crucial to ensure your sailing experience aligns with your preferences, group size, and desired level of comfort. Here's a quick overview of the most popular boat types available for charter in Los Angeles:

Motor Yacht

Luxurious powered vessels combining speed, comfort, and high-end amenities for premium cruising experiences.

•Ideal for covering longer distances with speed and comfort
•Offers premium amenities and modern luxury features
•Perfect for exploring multiple destinations without wind dependence

View 4 available motorboats for rent in Los Angeles

Monohull Sailboat

Classic sailing vessels perfect for authentic maritime experiences, combining tradition with modern comfort.

•Ideal for traditional sailing enthusiasts and smaller groups
•Offers a more authentic sailing experience with excellent performance
•More affordable compared to catamarans and motor yachts

View 2 available sailboats for rent in Los Angeles

Catamaran

Spacious, stable multi-hull vessels offering comfort and luxury for larger groups and families.

•Perfect for families and larger groups seeking stability and space
•Features spacious living areas with multiple cabins and large deck spaces
•Excellent stability and easy maneuverability for comfortable sailing

No Catamaran available in Los Angeles, view other locations

Power Catamaran

Twin-hulled motor vessels offering exceptional space and stability with powerful performance.

•Combines catamaran stability with motorboat speed
•Spacious layout with excellent fuel efficiency
•Perfect for comfortable long-distance cruising

No Motor Catamaran available in Los Angeles, view other locations

Gulet

Traditional wooden sailing vessels offering unique charm with modern comfort, ideal for luxury charter experiences.

•Traditional wooden sailing vessels with timeless charm
•Spacious deck areas perfect for entertaining and relaxation
•Comes with professional crew for a premium charter experience

No Gulet available in Los Angeles, view other locations

Speedboat

Agile, open boats designed for thrilling day trips and water sports activities.

•Ideal for exciting day trips and water sports
•Perfect for quick coastal exploration
•Easy to handle with great maneuverability

No Speedboat available in Los Angeles, view other locations

RIB

Rigid Inflatable Boats combining speed, safety, and versatility for dynamic water activities.

•Excellent for day trips and water sports
•Superior stability and safety in various conditions
•Perfect for coastal exploration and quick transfers

No RIB available in Los Angeles, view other locations

Houseboat

Floating vacation homes offering a unique blend of comfort and water-based living.

•Perfect for those seeking a floating apartment experience
•Ideal for calm waters and peaceful harbor stays
•Offers home-like comfort with full living amenities

No Houseboat available in Los Angeles, view other locations

When planning your Los Angeles yacht charter, choose from our premium fleet of sailing yachts, motor yachts, and luxury catamarans. Whether you prefer a crewed or bareboat charter experience, our professionally maintained vessels offer ideal options for every group size and sailing expertise. Discover competitive charter rates and top-quality amenities for your perfect sailing vacation in Los Angeles.

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Los Angeles Yacht Charter FAQ

What license do I need to rent a boat in Los Angeles?
California law requires a California Boater Card for operating motorized boats. Check our detailed licensing guide for specific requirements, or opt for a skippered charter if you don't have a license.
How much does it cost to rent a boat in Los Angeles?
Prices vary by season with sailboats ranging from $350-$600/day in low season to $500-$800/day in summer. Catamarans cost $600-$900/day off-peak and $800-$1,200/day peak. Motor yachts start at $1,200/day off-peak up to $2,000+/day in summer.
What's the best time to sail in Los Angeles?
The prime sailing season is May through October, with steady winds of 10-15 knots and temperatures around 75°F (24°C). Popular routes include Catalina Island, Marina del Rey, and Newport Beach, with year-round sailing possible thanks to LA's mild climate.
What additional costs should I expect for a Los Angeles boat rental?
Budget for mandatory end-cleaning ($150-$600), security deposit ($1,000-$5,000 or insurance for $150-$400), marina fees ($2-4/ft per night, 50% extra for catamarans), and local taxes. Many of our boats offer special discounts and flexible payment plans.
Do you offer skippered charters in Los Angeles?
Yes! We provide bareboat, skippered, and crewed options. Professional skippers cost around $350/day. Perfect for new sailors or those wanting a relaxing experience. We can arrange any type of charter through our worldwide network.
What's your cancellation policy?
Select boats offer extended free cancellation periods. We also provide a unique 3-installment payment plan with just 15% down payment, making booking more flexible and affordable. Each boat's specific terms are clearly listed on its page.
What support services do you offer in Los Angeles?
We provide airport transfers, provisioning services, and comprehensive charter insurance. Our local team can assist with route planning, weather updates, and 24/7 support throughout your charter.

Need additional help?

Did not find what you were looking for? We are here waiting for you to contact us!

50,000 Boats Worldwide

15% Down Payment Only

200,000 Happy Customers

100% Insured and Verified

Experience The Joy Of Boat Vacations

Sailboat

Motorboat

Catamaran

Gulet

Motor Catamaran

Houseboat

RIB

Speedboat

Bareboat / Captain Optional

Skippered / Captain Mandatory

Fully Crewed

Flexible Booking That Fits Your Plans

The Perfect Boat for Every Adventure

Year-Round Sailing Paradise

Complete Charter Support

Something for Everyone

Piqued Your Interest?