If you're spending your holiday on Lake Garda, you shouldn't miss at least one day exploring the lake from the water.
You can choose a private tour, a group excursion, or rent a motorboat and captain it yourself. Whatever option you prefer, the important thing is to experience the lake from a unique and exciting perspective.
The advantages are countless:
- Reach and photograph hidden bays and scenic spots that are difficult to access by land.
- Avoid traffic and crowds in the most popular tourist destinations.
- Relax in total freedom, surrounded only by the people you've chosen to share the experience with.
- Stop for a swim in the lake's clearest waters and dry off under the warm sun.
- Create a tailor-made experience, following your own pace and preferences.
With Garda Tours, you can rent motorboats without a boating license, choosing the vessel that best suits your needs and departing directly from the port of Sirmione, the pearl of Lake Garda.
Renting a Boat Without a Boating License
Garda Tours offers a fleet of modern 40 HP motorboats, approximately 6 meters long and approved to accommodate up to 6 passengers. Each boat is equipped with all the amenities needed for a relaxing and enjoyable day on Lake Garda.
Renting is simple and quick: no boating license is required, and the price includes fuel, insurance, and third-party liability coverage.
To depart, you only need: a valid ID document, a phone number, a €300 security deposit, fully refunded upon return of the boat.
In just a few minutes, you'll be ready to set sail!
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Motorboat on Lake Garda?
The cost of renting a license-free motorboat on Lake Garda with Garda Tours (2026 season) is €90 for 1 hour, but the longer you rent, the lower the hourly rate becomes.
Duration Hourly Rate Total
1 hour 90€ 90€
2 hours 75€ 150€
3 hours 73€ 220€
4 hours 65€ 260€
6 hours 58€ 350€
8 hours 49€ 390€
Fuel, insurance, and third-party liability coverage are included in the price. A €300 security deposit is required at departure and is fully refunded when the motorboat is returned.
The 10 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Renting a Motorboat on Lake Garda
To help you enjoy your experience with complete peace of mind, we've gathered the questions we receive most often, along with some useful tips.
1. Do I Need a License to Rent a Boat?
No. No boating license is required. You only need to be at least 18 years old. There must be at least one adult on board each boat.
2. How Many People Can Be on Board?
A maximum of 6 people.
3. Is Fuel Included?
Yes, fuel is included in the rental price.
4. Can I Drive the Motorboat Throughout the Entire Lake?
No. Rental motorboats are not allowed to navigate in the Trentino section of Lake Garda. Therefore, they cannot travel north beyond Limone sul Garda and Malcesine.
5. What Is the Speed Limit for Motorboats on Lake Garda?
During the day, the maximum speed limit on Lake Garda is 20 knots. At night, it is reduced to 5 knots. Boats must maintain a minimum distance of 300 meters from the shoreline.
6. Which Harbors Can I Dock At?
You may dock at any harbor on the lake. We recommend Salò, Garda, Bardolino, and Lazise for convenient and well-equipped stops.
7. What Equipment Is Available on Board?
Each motorboat is equipped with: Anchor, Mooring lines, Life jackets, Lifebuoy, Sun canopy, GPS, Radio Bluetooth stereo system. Dogs are welcome on board as well.
8. Can We Swim from the Boat?
Absolutely. Swimming is allowed when the boat is stationary and the engine is switched off. It's one of the most enjoyable activities on the lake.
9. Are Night Rentals Available?
No. All motorboats must return to the harbor by 7:00 PM.
10. What If I Get Lost?
No worries. Every motorboat is equipped with GPS, allowing the Garda Tours team to monitor boat locations at all times and assist you if necessary. Simply follow our staff's instructions and you'll avoid any unexpected issues.
How to Book a Boat Rental on Lake Garda
Our team is available to provide information by phone, email, or through the contact form on our website. During the summer season, we strongly recommend booking your motorboat rental in advance.
Don't forget your sunscreen, water, and... we'll see you at the port of Sirmione!