FAQs

Yes, please! Though this is not always a requirement, it is the only way to guarantee your boat, and it will streamline the process to make it easier for everyone. Keep in mind that sometimes we do require a reservation to get onto the property which has helped us in 2020 and 2021 to comply with social distancing requirements and keep everyone comfortable and safe. If you’re unsure whether or not to make a reservation, please look into our cancelation policy, and feel free to give us a call with any questions or if you’re seeking advice.

Reservations cancelled with 7 or more days notice will be eligible for a full refund 

Reservations cancelled with less than 7 days but more than 48 hours will be eligible for a 50% refund 

Reservations cancelled with less than 48 hours are not eligible for a refund. 

There is a time limit to making on-line reservations. Please give us a call.

We book your reservation as a time slot, not a duration of time because we book rentals back to back throughout the day. For example, if you book a 2-hour rental from 2-4 pm, then you have reserved the boat only from 2-4 pm, and there is likely someone else at the dock ready to pick up the boat after it's been fueled and cleaned for their 4:15 pm reservation. In this case, we cannot adjust your time without cutting into theirs. In short, if you are late, you will be cutting into your own rental time. 

We advise that all guests plan to arrive at least an hour ahead of their scheduled rental time and keep an eye on the traffic. If you are going to be late, give us a call to let us know. We will do everything in our power to accommodate you (short of taking time away from another customer).

No, there is no swimming possible from any rental boat on Big Bear Lake as per the lake law. All swimming activities must be conducted within 50 ft of the shore, however, rental boats must stay in the middle of the 5 miles per hour zone of the lake which is approximately 200-300 ft away from shore and marked with white cylindrical buoys. We will be happy to point out some swimming areas on your map once you have returned from your rental!

No, unfortunately on Big Bear Lake it is illegal to tow anything behind a rental vessel. However, we do offer this as a charter service with professional drivers and instructors if you want to brush up on your wakeboarding, waterskiing, wake surfing, and more. If you want to get out for some laughs on a tube, we’re plenty happy to book you a tubing charter as well!

No, all rental boats must stay in the middle of the 5 miles per hour zone of the lake which is approximately 200-300 ft away from shore and marked with white cylindrical buoys. The shoreline of Big Bear Lake is beautiful, but even in areas that look sandy or have docks, there are lots of boulders, weeds, and debris that hide just under the surface of the water. The lake level is regularly low, which may render certain docks unusable. To keep you having fun and to keep our boats afloat and running their best, we ask that you respect the distance rules and keep to deeper water. We’re happy to point out our favorite areas that you can enjoy safely - just ask at the dock! 

In the case of inclement weather, we will strive to make your rental experience as enjoyable as possible.  In the Spring, Summer and Fall seasons, weather forecasts are very unpredictable.  Typically, rain showers that occur last less than an hour and our boats are equipped with Bimini tops that provide 30 to 40% coverage for protection from sun or rain.  Our rentals go out rain or shine and most people enjoy the adventure.   We do not offer cancellation refunds due to weather but we may offer restricted rain check vouchers or adjust your scheduled time slot to accommodate a short rain delay. 

The major difference between each boat category is the age of the boats. We have been growing our fleet for many years, and as a result, some of our boats are newer, and some are more “well-loved.” Our fishing pontoons are perfect for a family on a budget, looking to fish, or looking to bring pets along. 

If you want to picnic, get a suntan, and lay out on the seats, the luxury boats have nicer upholstery and we provide portable bluetooth speakers. These are the best value for your money, but keep in mind we don’t allow fishing or pets onboard  the luxury boats. 

We baby our luxury pontoons by keeping them covered unless you’re renting them, and they’re our newest models. 

Yes! However, you must also bring a designated driver who will remain sober. Boaters must follow the same laws as cars, and you can and will get a DUI for driving a boat under the influence. We encourage you to enjoy yourselves responsibly! 

Yes, absolutely! This is one of our top-recommended activities. No restaurant will have better views than your own private boat on the water. Ask us about table rentals if you would like to add one to your rental for this purpose. Additionally, our staff is ready with a list of favorite local eateries if you want to pick up some take-out on your way.

No. This is a matter of safety. The majority of collisions that happen on this lake occur between parties who know one another. For this reason, we don’t rent a boat and a Waverunner, or more than one boat to parties that know one another, nor do we rent to customers who already have their own vessels on the water. We want all of our guests to have a great time while remaining safe and keeping our rentals in the best possible condition for all of our future guests as well. If we find out that you have violated this rental condition, our policy is to immediately revoke the rental, and Lake Patrol will return you to the dock with no refund. We hate to be the bummer, so please be honest and respect this one. 

Instead, consider chartering the Pirate Ship for a private tour. The Pirate Ship can accommodate up to 25 people, comes with a captain, and a guided tour if you so desire. Call or go online at bigbearhollowaysmarina.com for a private charter booking.

You must be 18 or older with a valid driver’s license and credit card to rent or drive any vessels with us.

Yes, you do need to present a valid driver’s license at the time of your rental. 

No, you do not currently need a boater card. The state of California is in the process of changing some of these rules, and we will update our website accordingly if the time comes. 

We release your deposit the evening of your rental after the vessel has been safely returned to the dock in the same condition in which it left with you. HOWEVER, please keep in mind that your bank may hold an authorization of funds for an additional length of time (sometimes up to 30 days). We advise that you call your bank to understand their authorization limits and policies prior to your rental. Additionally, we recommend using a credit card for the authorization rather than a debit card to help regain your access to those funds a bit quicker. 

There is a one-week minimum.