Frequently Asked Questions for Milwaukee River and Lake Michigan Boat Rental with Onboard Amenities

Question 1

Can you provide someone to drive the boat?

Accepted Answer

While we do not hire or provide Captains directly, we can send you a list of Captains we know of in the area. You can then contact a Captain and hire them directly.

Question 2

Does the driver need a boaters license?

Accepted Answer

If the driver was born in 1988 or before, they do not need a Boaters License, but a valid driver‘s license. If the driver was born in 1989 or later, they need a valid driver’s license and a boater’s safety certificate.

Question 3

How many people can be on board?

Accepted Answer

Our boats have a capacity of up to 13 adults and 2 children, including the driver, depending on the boat rented. This is mandated by boating laws and we cannot exceed that capacity for any reason.

Question 4

Do I need experience to drive this boat?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We do require drivers to have experience with operating and docking powerboats. Our boats can go high speeds, which is very different from other rentals you typically see on the Milwaukee River. If you lack experience, please contact us so we can put you in contact with a Skipper.

Question 5

Can I bring snacks and beverages on the boat?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You may bring whatever snacks and beverages you like. Adults 21 years and over may bring beer, wine, etc. Cans and plastic bottles are preferred over glass. We request that you drink responsibly, as excessive drinking will not be tolerated and may result in a shorter or canceled trip. Absolutely no illegal substances of any kind are allowed on the boat. Lake Michigan and the associated rivers are patrolled by a variety of law enforcement personnel and drunk drivers will be prosecuted. We highly recommend the driver of the boat refrain from all alcohol while operating our boats.

Question 6

What should we bring on the boat?

Accepted Answer

We provide a cooler and ice. Feel free to bring beverages and snacks! Warm clothes are always recommended. Lake Michigan can be a fickle beast, and it can get chilly out there! A camera, sunscreen, sunglasses, snacks and drinks, or extra dry clothing are also good items to have along.

Question 7

Are there music capabilities?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the boat features a Bluetooth-equipped sound system and radio.

Question 8

Where do we take the boat for recreation?

Accepted Answer

Head down the Milwaukee and Kinnickinnic Rivers to enjoy the sights of the City from the water. Stop for a beverage or meal at one of the numerous bars/restaurants with public docking typically available. Head north and you can view Bradford Beach or head south to anchor and visit the sheltered waters of South Shore Beach or the beer garden. You can also anchor in the area near Summerfest and Discovery World and swim or listen to music at the Uline stage. We recommend you stay within the inner harbor/break wall for calmer seas. Just be mindful of time as the entire riverways are "Slow No Wake" and completing an entire loop, can take upwards of 150 minutes from dock to dock as the majority of the trip is slow no wake.

Question 9

What is the weather/cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Customers have the option to purchase cancellation insurance during the check-out process which allows the customer to cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the scheduled event. If the customer chooses not to purchase the insurance, cancels within 24 hours, or fails to show up within 15 minutes of the start of the booking, customers will be charged in full. Rigged & Ready reserves the right to cancel a booking due to inclement weather. Examples include a small craft advisory, waves bigger than 3 feet, fog, and/or thunderstorms. If a booking is canceled by Rigged and Ready, the customer will be given a credit to use at a future date.

Question 10

Can I bring my kids?

Accepted Answer

Yes! There is no age restriction on our boats. Various boat laws do apply as to age restrictions regarding operating boats, wearing life jackets, etc. Be sure to let us know how many children will be onboard to ensure we have the proper safety equipment for them.

Question 11

Is smoking allowed on the boat?

Accepted Answer

For your safety (and your security deposit), we do not allow smoking on our boats.

Explore Experiences

By Category

By Party Type

By Top Batch Cities

Find places to stay

Discover Restaurants and Bars

NEW! Batch Restaurants & Bars

NEW! Batch Restaurants & Bars

Batch Expert Party Guides

Read more from our Blog

Learn more about Batch

Reviews for Milwaukee River and Lake Michigan Boat Rental with Onboard Amenities