Aye Aye, Fido! Float Away on These Pet-Friendly Boat Rentals

Posted by Billy Francis

For Fido’s next adventure, why not launch him off dry land to escape the crowds? Charter a ship with a captain, or be your own skipper, and set sail to explore coastal landscapes and stunning waterways. Although some companies will provide one, it’s worth bringing your own canine life jacket that fits your pooch to perfection.

Aqua Sports Adventures

Buford, GA
“Whatever floats your boat, man.” Photo by Facebook.com/Aqua-Sports-Adventures

Like many lakes in the Southeast, Lake Lanier is manmade. It was created upon completion of Buford Dam on the Chattahoochee River in 1956. However, this fact doesn’t make the fourth-largest lake in Georgia any less beautiful. Aqua Sports Adventures gives up to two pups the chance to explore the water (with human supervision). Dogs are welcome on pontoons, deck boats and runabouts for a $25 pet fee.

If you don’t want to stray too far from the water, spend the night at Camp Moonshine. This glamping spot is less than five minutes from the lake and located on 5 acres of peaceful woodlands.

Float On

Austin, TX
“Land ahoy!” Photo by Facebook.com/FloatOnBoatRentals

The Colorado River meanders southwest from its headwaters above Denver through the Grand Canyon and Austin before reaching its final destination at the Gulf of California. Float On is a boat rental service for people and pups who want to explore Lake Austin, a reservoir on the river. Your rental includes a boat, a captain to drive so you can relax on board, lily pads that dogs are also allowed on and a cooler package to keep Fido’s popsicles frozen. Every watercraft in their fleet welcomes dogs for free, and they love having them on board.

Back on dry land, tickle the ivories, dive into the pool and relax at this secluded Austin getaway.

Soul Shine Adventures

Key West, FL
“I’m the Captain, now walk the plank!” Photo by Facebook.com/Soulshineadventures

Soul Shine Adventures invites you to experience Florida’s most southern point through the eyes of a local on a fun-filled charter. Their tours are completely customizable, so you can pick and choose between dolphin watching, snorkeling, fishing, sunset cruising, sandbar hopping or a mixture of many. All of their charters allow pets on board for free.

Spend the night in style at the Palms Hotel, where dogs are welcomed with a treat.

Daisey’s Island Cruises

Chincoteague, VA
“We’ve got everybody’s tongues and tails waggin.’” Photo by Vicki

Pet-friendly space adventures might be a way off, but you can still view astronauts blasting off from NASA Wallops Flight Facility on a day trip with Daisey’s Island Cruises. Trips depart from Chincoteague, a gateway to Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge on Assateague Island. Daisey’s provides a chance to see ponies running wild on the island, as well as sunset and dolphin adventures. Dogs float for free.

Overlook the water you just explored from this cute waterfront cottage.

All Aboard Adventures

Fort Bragg, CA
“How do I look? Okay, I’m fishing for compliments.” Photo by Marilyn

Dogs can join the crew for free at All Aboard Adventures. Captain Tim has over 40 years’ experience on the water, so you know you and your pooch are in safe hands. Climb aboard to catch a glimpse of California Gray Whales migrating from Alaska to Baja California during the months of December through February, and returning home from February through April.

Whales aren’t the only giant things California is famous for. Stay among humongous redwoods on 10 secluded acres at this beautiful home.

Adventure Harbor Tours

Mount Pleasant, SC
“Water, water everywhere, except in your cup.” Photo by Jade

Adventure Harbor Tours is one of the most popular pet-friendly charters on BringFido. Located in Mount Pleasant in Charleston County, tours take you on trips around Morris Island (one of the best beaches on the East Coast), through Charleston Harbor and out at dusk to see the stunning sunsets over the water.

Rest Fido’s sea legs at Hotel Indigo Mount Pleasant. Four-legged guests are greeted with treats and have access to a grassy area on site for their calls of nature.

Blue Crush Charters

Montauk, NY
“I don’t care if you can’t see, I’m sunbathing!” Photo by Blue Crush Charters

Departing the tip of Long Island near Montauk Point Lighthouse, Blue Crush Charters welcomes salty sea dogs onto the poop deck. They offer full- and half-day, inshore and offshore fishing cruises for aspiring anglers.

After your private cruise, visit the golden sands of Montauk Beach with your pooch, or relax on your private beach at this secluded waterfront home on the shore of Lake Montauk.

Retro Boat Rentals

Saugatuck, MI
“I think there’s room for a few more.” Photo by Facebook.com/RetroBoatRentals

Retro Boat Rentals is a blast from the past. Dive into a donut boat with your pooch and all her friends for a float around Kalamazoo Lake. Their vessels are eco-friendly and affordable to rent. Afterwards, toast your fantastic boat trip with a beer at The Mitten Brewing Company.

Soak it up in the private hot tub of this dog-friendly cottage near downtown Saugatuck.

Where will you float with Fido? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!

Banner photo by Bringfido.com.