23′ Pontoon 3.5-Hour Rental Up To 12 People

Exploring Door County’s Waterways on a 23′ Pontoon: An Honest Review

Taking to the water in Door County via a 23-foot pontoon promises a day filled with sun, sailing, and the kind of scenic views that make Wisconsin’s Lake Michigan coastline so special. This rental from Northern Door County Boat Rental is designed for groups up to 12 people—perfect for families, friends, or even a group of pups eager to get in on the fun. From their high-powered 115-horse Mercury engine to the roomy, comfortable seating, this pontoon offers a lot of bang for your buck.

What we really love is how easy and stress-free the experience can be, thanks to the helpful staff and clear instructions. The boat’s modern features—like Bluetooth stereo, swim ladder, and ample storage—make the day on the water enjoyable and practical. That said, one thing to keep in mind is the added expense if you want to include watersports gear, like tubing or skiing, which costs extra.

This experience is ideal for groups looking for a laid-back, flexible day on the water with options to customize. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, planning a family outing, or just craving some time on Lake Michigan, this rental delivers fun with a side of stunning views. However, those seeking a fully guided tour might find this more of a self-led adventure, which we’ll explore further below.

Key Points

• Powerful Engine: The 115-horse Mercury engine ensures a smooth, speedy ride, making it ideal for those who want to cover more ground or add some adrenaline to their day.
• Comfortable Layout: Wrap-around seating and ample dry storage make the boat cozy yet practical for a large group.
• Extras Available: Watersports gear such as tubes, wakeboards, and skis can be added, though at an additional cost.
• Hassle-Free Booking & Staff: The rental process is straightforward, with friendly staff guiding you through the check-in and operation.
• Flexible Schedule: Starting at 9:30 am, the 3.5-hour rental fits easily into a day’s itinerary with the option for full or half-day adventures.
• Good Value for Money: For $275, groups get a roomy, modern boat with safety gear included, with many reviewers noting the experience as “great value.”

The Details of Your Day on the Water

Starting Point & Logistics

Your pontoon adventure begins at Northern Door County Boat Rental in Sister Bay. The meeting point is conveniently located at 10967 N Bay Shore Dr, making it accessible for most travelers in the area. The rental kicks off at 9:30 am, giving you plenty of time to soak up the sun and enjoy Door County’s scenic surroundings.

The check-in process is praised for being smooth and welcoming. Reviewers mention that staff take the boat out of the harbor for you, so you can hop straight onto the water without the hassle of maneuvering through busy marinas. This convenience is a big plus, especially if you’re new to boating or just want a relaxed start to your day.

The Boat & Its Features

The 2022 Harris Cruiser pontoon is notable for its modern design, wrap-around seating, and extra features that elevate your experience. The extended swim platform and fold-up ladder make swimming or just relaxing in the water easy—whether you’re taking a dip after some tubing or just enjoying the view.

The Bluetooth stereo system ensures your playlist keeps the vibe lively, while the depth finder helps you avoid shallow spots and navigate safely. The safety equipment, including life vests and flares, is provided, aligning with best practices for a worry-free day.

How the Boat Performs

With 115 horsepower, this pontoon is one of the most powerful in the area, according to the rental company’s claim. Many reviewers have noted the boat’s speed and smooth handling, which makes for an enjoyable ride whether you’re cruising along the shoreline or heading out to specific spots.

The wrap-around seating can comfortably fit up to 12 guests, making it perfect for groups or families who want to spread out. The dry storage under seats is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to stow your cooler, towels, or dry clothes out of sight but within easy reach.

What to Expect During Your Rental

Day Planning & Itinerary

On a typical 3.5-hour rental, you’ll want to plan a route that maximizes your time on the water. Many reviewers recommend heading toward the entrance of the marina, which allows for easy access to various scenic spots and beaches.

Some guests have enjoyed exploring Door County’s beautiful shoreline, relaxing at secluded beaches, or stopping at points of interest like Horseshoe Island or Eagle Bluff. The staff’s local knowledge is an asset here—they often recommend areas for swimming or picnicking.

Watersports & Add-Ons

While the base rental includes the boat, safety gear, and some amenities, watersports are extra. For $34, you can add a tube to tow behind the boat, adding an element of thrill to your outing. The watersports tow tower is already equipped, making it simple to switch between tubing, wakeboarding, or waterskiing.

Reviewers love the flexibility; one mentions that bringing a cooler and snacks makes the trip even better, and that with a half-day rental, they felt they had just enough time to enjoy the area.

Customer Experience & Staff

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable and friendly staff. They’re praised for providing clear instructions without overwhelming, and for offering helpful suggestions to enhance the trip. One reviewer appreciated that the boat was taken out of the harbor for them, making their start much easier.

However, a few less favorable reviews mention issues like extra charges and poor customer service, but these appear to be outliers. The rental company emphasizes transparency and offers free cancellation, which adds peace of mind.

What Could Be Improved

While the overall experience is positive, some users have expressed concerns about additional charges, especially concerning damages or optional gear. One reviewer noted they were charged extra for damages to the propeller after hitting a shallow area—so gentle navigation and awareness are key.

Another potential consideration is the absence of a guided tour—this rental is self-led, meaning you’ll need to plan your route and spend some time familiarizing yourself with the boat and the area. For those seeking a guided experience, this might be a limitation.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This pontoon rental is best suited for groups who want the flexibility to explore at their own pace. Families, friends, or even pet owners will appreciate the large, comfortable layout and the ability to bring pups along. It’s perfect for those looking for a relaxed day on the water with the option to add watersports for extra fun.

If you’re seeking a cost-effective way to enjoy Door County’s scenic coastlines without a guided tour, this rental offers excellent value. Conversely, if you prefer an all-inclusive, guided experience, you might seek other options.

The Sum Up

This 23-foot pontoon rental from Northern Door County Boat Rental offers a well-rounded, fun, and flexible way to enjoy Door County’s stunning waters. The powerful engine, spacious seating, and added amenities mean you’ll be comfortable and entertained throughout your trip. Many reviewers note the helpful staff, the clean and modern boat, and the fantastic views as the highlights.

It’s particularly well-suited for groups wanting to explore at their own pace, with the freedom to swim, picnic, or water-ski (at extra cost). The price of $275 for up to 12 guests is a competitive deal considering the size of the boat and the added features.

While extra charges for watersports and damages are worth noting, they shouldn’t overshadow the overall value and fun you can have. With a bit of planning, this rental is bound to be a highlight of your Door County adventure.

FAQ

Is the boat suitable for beginners?
Yes, the boat is straightforward to operate, especially with staff providing clear instructions at check-in. Many reviewers felt confident navigating after a brief orientation.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
While not explicitly stated, it’s common to bring coolers or snacks. The boat has dry storage under the seats, making it easy to keep your provisions handy.

What if I want to add watersports gear?
You can add a tube for an extra $34, which comes with a watersports tow tower already installed. Other gear like wakeboards or skis are not included but might be available via other services.

Is there a minimum age or group size for the rental?
Most travelers can participate; the boat comfortably fits up to 12 guests, making it ideal for families or groups. Service animals are also allowed.

What if the weather is bad on the day?
The rental can be canceled free of charge if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. If poor weather causes cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking on average 18 days in advance is typical, but earlier reservations are recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date.

Can I extend the rental beyond 3.5 hours?
The current offering is a 3.5-hour rental, but check with the provider if you’re interested in a longer experience. Many reviewers wish they had booked a full day, so consider that for future plans.

In essence, if you’re looking for a comfortable, powerful, and flexible way to explore Door County’s waters with friends or family, this pontoon rental checks all the boxes. Its combination of great features, helpful staff, and scenic potential makes it a worthwhile addition to any Wisconsin getaway.