What are the times for renting boats?
For half-day rentals we divide the day into two, half-day “watches.” The first watch runs from 8:00 am to noon, and the second runs from 1:00 – 5:00 pm. So, each half-day rental will start at either 8:00 am or 1:00 pm. Full day rentals begin at 8:00 am with a return time of 5:00 pm. Note: the local refueling stations close at 6:00 pm, so you need to be sure to allow time to refuel and pump out the waste tanks before they close.
Can you rent jet skis, pontoon boats, water skis, tubes or fishing gear from WBR?
No, WBR does not rent these items.
I don’t have a boating license. Can I still rent from WBR?
Having a valid boating license is mandatory for those born on or after January 1st, 1986. Whether you need a license or not, we require fully qualified operators to take out our boats for regulatory and liability reasons. Additionally, we require prior experience on similar boats on inland waters. However, we want to help you get out there! So, we offer training and private lessons with our seasoned captains from our sister corporation, In-Command Seamanship Training. Please see In-Command Seamanship Training for additional information and available courses.
If I need to cancel my reservation, is my deposit for a boat rental refundable?
For timely cancellations (generally no less than 72 hours prior) or inclement weather/personal emergences we prefer that you use your deposit for a future rescheduled booking. However, if that is not feasible, we will refund your deposit in full.
Can I take a rental boat out of Narragansett Bay or to Block Island?
Weather permitting and in general, only our boats that are 25 feet or longer can leave Narragansett Bay and the boat pilot must have experience in crossing Long Island Sound. Currently, the following boats will be permitted to be operated in Block Island Sound within five (5) nautical miles of coastal Rhode Island and New Shoreham:
- Catalina 30 Mk iii
- Mainship 30 Pilot II
- Sea Fox Commander 266
- Sea Fox Commander 248
How far in advance should I book a boat reservation?
There is no set limit, but we usually cannot fulfill next day, and never same day requests. Here are some general guidelines:
- Reservations for peak times (weekends and holidays) usually book well in advance. It’s best to make a reservation for these times at least two (2) weeks in advance, and preferably more. For example, July weekends and the Fourth of July holiday are filling up by mid-May.
- Weekdays are generally more available, but we encourage you to make a reservation no later than 72 hours in advance.
