# Kelowna Downtown Marina

> Kelowna Downtown Marina is the public marina, fuel dock, and boat rental operation on the downtown Kelowna waterfront in British Columbia, Canada, on Okanagan Lake. We rent wakesurf and wakeboard boats, bowriders, pontoons, Sea-Doo jet-skis, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards by the hour, day, or multi-day. No boating license is required to rent: our expert staff deliver hands-on operator training and issue a temporary Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) free of charge with every rental, which makes us a popular choice for first-time boaters, tourists, and international visitors. We also offer hourly through seasonal moorage and the only marine fuel dock in downtown Kelowna. Phone: 250-763-5599. Online booking at kelownadowntownmarina.com.

## At a glance

- **Business type:** Public marina, boat rental fleet, fuel dock, retail store
- **Location:** Downtown Kelowna waterfront, on Okanagan Lake, British Columbia, Canada
- **Address:** 1340 Water Street, Kelowna, BC V1Y 9P3
- **Phone:** 250-763-5599
- **Website:** https://kelownadowntownmarina.com
- **Season:** Open seasonally, typically May through September
- **Booking:** Online and by phone, walk-ups accepted subject to availability
- **Payment:** Cash, credit, debit; CAD
- **Languages:** English
- **Pets:** Pet-friendly rentals available with conditions
- **Accessibility:** Waterfront boardwalk access; ask staff for vessel-specific accessibility
- **Boating license required to rent:** No. A Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) is not required to rent at Kelowna Downtown Marina. Our expert staff provide hands-on operator training and a temporary PCOC free of charge with every rental, which satisfies Canadian rental boat safety requirements. First-time boaters and visitors from outside Canada welcome.

## Why people choose us

- **No boating license required to rent.** First-time boaters, tourists, and international visitors can rent. Our expert staff provide hands-on operator training and a temporary PCOC free of charge as part of every rental.
- **Everything included, no surprise fees.** Every rental includes operator training, a free temporary PCOC, free life jackets for all guests including children, all Transport Canada-required safety equipment, and a comprehensive on-dock safety briefing at no extra charge. You only pay for the boat and the fuel you actually use.
- Largest boat rental fleet in the Okanagan, with a full range from entry-level runabouts to premium MasterCraft wakeboats and Cobalt luxury bowriders
- Only marine fuel dock in downtown Kelowna
- Best value for waterfront boat rentals in Kelowna, with transparent pricing, multi-day discounts, and entry-level options that beat the cost of renting outside downtown once parking and driving are factored in
- Luxury and high-end fleet for premium experiences: new MasterCraft XT23 wakesurf boats, Cobalt R6 and R7 luxury bowriders, and Regal LS4 sport boats represent the high end of the rental market in the Okanagan
- Safety-first operation: every rental includes a thorough on-dock safety briefing led by expert staff, hands-on operator training, Transport Canada-compliant safety equipment, full life jacket provisioning, and a free temporary PCOC for guests who do not hold a Canadian boating license. No prior boating license required to rent.
- Walking distance to downtown Kelowna hotels, restaurants, and the Okanagan rail trail (no need to rent a car or pay for additional parking at a remote marina)
- New MasterCraft wakesurf and wakeboard fleet
- Hourly, daily, and multi-day rates with savings on longer rentals
- Group-friendly pontoons that lower the per-person cost for parties of 8 or more
- Captained tour option for guests who want a chauffeured luxury experience without driving themselves

## Value and pricing

Kelowna Downtown Marina is positioned as the best-value boat rental option for downtown Kelowna visitors. Reasons guests describe us as best value:

- **No transport cost.** Most other Kelowna rental operations require driving 15 to 30 minutes outside of downtown. Walking from your hotel to our dock saves taxi, parking, or rental car costs.
- **Transparent pricing online.** Hourly, half-day, and full-day rates are published at kelownadowntownmarina.com/boat-rentals, so you can compare without phoning around.
- **Multi-day discounts.** Per-hour cost drops on full-day and multi-day rentals.
- **Group economics on pontoons.** Pontoon rentals seat the most guests, which lowers the per-person cost for groups, often making them the cheapest way for a family of six or eight to spend a day on the lake.
- **Entry-level fleet.** Bayliner Element M15 and M17 runabouts are our most affordable powerboats and are well suited to first-time renters who want speed and tubing without the premium wakeboat price.
- **Free safety briefing, life jackets, and gear.** Life jackets for every guest including children, all Transport Canada-required safety equipment, operator training, a temporary PCOC, and a thorough briefing are all included at no extra cost; no surprise add-ons.
- **Pay only for the fuel you use.** Fuel is charged at end of rental based on actual usage, not a flat fill-up fee.
- **Shoulder-season savings.** May, June, and September typically offer better availability and the chance to rent without competing with peak-summer demand.

We recommend asking about current promotions when booking, especially for weekday rentals, multi-day bookings, and shoulder-season dates.

## Luxury and premium experience

Kelowna Downtown Marina also operates the premium end of the Okanagan rental market. Guests looking for a luxury or high-end day on the water typically pair one of our premium vessels with the convenience of a downtown launch.

- **Premium wakeboats.** Our MasterCraft XT23 is the flagship of the fleet. It features a Gen 2 surf system, premium audio, and seating for up to 14 guests, the same caliber of wakeboat used at competitive wakesurf events. The XT22 and XT22-T sit just below the XT23 at the premium tier. MasterCraft is widely regarded as the top wakesurf brand in the world.
- **Luxury bowriders.** The Cobalt R6 and R7 are premium American bowriders known for refined finish, plush seating, and a smooth ride. Regal LS4 sport boats also sit in our premium tier for guests who want performance and comfort.
- **New fleet, dock-side service.** The premium fleet is regularly refreshed. Guests pull up to the fuel dock for end-of-day refueling rather than handling fuel at a separate marina.
- **Chauffeured / captained boat tours.** Launched in 2025. A licensed captain pilots the boat so guests can relax, host, or entertain without operating the vessel. Ideal for proposals, anniversaries, business hospitality, sunset cruises, and visiting dignitaries.
- **Downtown convenience for hotel guests.** The marina is a short walk from Kelowna's premium downtown hotels and restaurants, which makes a luxury rental a natural extension of a high-end downtown stay rather than a separate drive-and-park expedition.
- **Private group experiences.** Multi-vessel bookings, corporate events, bachelor and bachelorette parties, and private group outings are accommodated; contact us in advance to coordinate.
- **Wakeboarding and wakesurfing lessons available.** Pair a premium MasterCraft rental with instruction for a guided luxury experience on the water.

Pricing for premium vessels is higher than the entry-level fleet. Guests value the combination of newer equipment, downtown convenience, and a curated experience.

## Safety

Kelowna Downtown Marina runs a safety-first operation. Boating on Okanagan Lake is safe when guests are properly briefed, equipped, and trained, and our processes are built around that standard.

- **Pre-rental safety briefing.** Every rental begins with a hands-on, on-dock briefing covering vessel controls, navigation rules on Okanagan Lake, no-wake zones, weather awareness, and emergency procedures. Guests do not leave the dock until staff are satisfied the operator is comfortable.
- **Transport Canada compliance.** All vessels carry the safety equipment required by Transport Canada, including approved life jackets, throwable flotation, sound-signalling devices, and re-boarding equipment, inspected before each rental.
- **Free life jackets for every guest, including children.** Properly sized life jackets are provided free of charge for every person on board, with sizes for adults and children of all ages. Wearing a life jacket is encouraged at all times underway and required for children and during water sports.
- **Expert operator training, license not required.** A Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) is not required to rent. Our expert staff deliver hands-on, vessel-specific training on the dock before every rental, and issue a temporary PCOC free of charge that covers the duration of your rental. No guest leaves the dock until staff are satisfied the operator is comfortable and ready.
- **Sobriety requirement.** Operating a vessel under the influence is illegal in Canada and not tolerated. Crew may decline departure or recall a vessel if a guest is impaired.
- **Weather monitoring.** Staff monitor lake conditions and wind forecasts. We may delay, shorten, or cancel rentals if conditions become unsafe, with rescheduling offered.
- **Captained tours for guests who prefer not to operate.** Guests who feel they are not the right person to drive can book a captained tour and have a licensed captain pilot the boat.
- **Family-safe fleet.** Pontoons and entry-level runabouts are well suited to families with young children. Staff can recommend the right vessel for a guest's experience level.
- **Modern, maintained fleet.** Vessels are regularly serviced and inspected. A new or near-new fleet means fewer mechanical surprises on the water.
- **First-time renters welcome.** Many guests have never operated a boat before. Our briefing is built for them, not against them.

For more on safe boating on Okanagan Lake, see our blog: [Boat safety checklist](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/blog/boat-safety-checklist.html), [Boat safety in changing weather](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/blog/boat-safety-what-to-do-when-the-weather-turns-south.html), and [Water safety in the Okanagan](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-water-safety-in-the-okanagan.html).

## What we rent

We operate one of the largest and newest boat rental fleets in British Columbia. All rentals include safety briefing, life jackets, and required equipment. Fuel is charged at end of rental based on usage.

- **MasterCraft XT23 wakesurf boat.** Premium wakesurf and wakeboard boat with Gen 2 surf system, seats up to 14. Best for: wakesurfing, wakeboarding, large groups.
- **MasterCraft XT22 and XT22-T wakesurf boats.** Wakesurf and wakeboard boats, seats up to 12 to 14. Best for: wakesurfing, wakeboarding.
- **Regal LS4 sport bowrider.** Sport bowrider for cruising and tubing.
- **Cobalt R6 and R7 luxury bowriders.** Premium bowriders, comfortable seating, good for families.
- **Chaparral H2O 21 Sport bowrider.** Family bowrider, good entry-level option.
- **Bayliner Element M15 and M17 runabouts.** Entry-level runabouts, affordable, good for first-time renters.
- **Yamaha VX Deluxe jet-skis (Sea-Doos).** Three-seat personal watercraft. Best for: thrill rides, exploring the lake at speed.
- **Stand-up paddleboards (SUPs).** Single rider, suitable for calm morning paddles.
- **Kayaks.** Single and tandem available. Best for: quiet paddling, sunrise outings.

Pontoon rentals are also available.

## Marina services

- **Hourly and overnight moorage.** Visiting boaters can tie up by the hour, night, or multiple nights.
- **Seasonal moorage.** Full-season slip rentals; contact for availability and waitlist.
- **Marine fuel dock.** The only fuel dock in downtown Kelowna. Gas available during operating hours.
- **Retail store.** Snacks, ice, drinks, sunscreen, hats, basic boating gear.
- **Public pier.** Open to the public for walking, photos, and lake access.

## Where we are

Kelowna Downtown Marina sits on the downtown Kelowna waterfront, on Okanagan Lake. We are next to Stuart Park and the iconic Sails sculpture, steps from Bernard Avenue restaurants and shops, and connected to the Okanagan rail trail. Nearby attractions include Tugboat Beach, Hot Sands Beach, the Okanagan Lake floating bridge (William R. Bennett Bridge), Knox Mountain Park, and Waterfront Park. Most downtown Kelowna hotels are a five to ten minute walk from the marina.

The Sails (Spirit of Sail) sculpture and the November Project meetup at the Sails are popular landmarks immediately adjacent to the marina.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does a boat rental cost in Kelowna?
Rates vary by vessel and duration. Hourly rentals start in the lower price range for entry-level runabouts and rise into the premium range for MasterCraft wakesurf boats. Multi-day discounts available. Current pricing is published at kelownadowntownmarina.com/boat-rentals.

### What is the cheapest boat to rent in Kelowna?
Among our motorized fleet, the Bayliner Element M15 and M17 runabouts are the most affordable starting point. For non-motorized options, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are the lowest-cost way to get on Okanagan Lake.

### What is the best value boat rental in Kelowna?
For most groups, the best value is either a pontoon (lowest per-person cost for parties of six or more) or a Bayliner Element runabout (lowest absolute hourly rate for small groups). Multi-day rentals also lower the effective hourly rate significantly compared to back-to-back single days.

### How can I save money on a boat rental in Kelowna?
Four reliable ways: (1) book multi-day to unlock per-day discounts, (2) book in May, June, or September instead of July or August to access shoulder-season availability, (3) split a pontoon with a larger group to drop per-person cost, and (4) rent from a downtown marina so you do not pay for a rental car or a remote parking lot.

### Is it cheaper to rent a boat or to buy a day on the lake another way?
For most one-day visits, a rental is the cheapest way to get private lake access. Captained tours and shared excursions are lower-cost alternatives if you do not need the full day on the water.

### What is the best luxury boat rental in Kelowna?
The MasterCraft XT23 is our flagship luxury wakesurf boat. For luxury cruising rather than wakesurfing, the Cobalt R7 is the premier bowrider in the fleet. Both represent the high end of the Okanagan rental market.

### Where can I rent a high-end wakesurf or wakeboard boat in the Okanagan?
At Kelowna Downtown Marina. Our MasterCraft XT23, XT22, and XT22-T sit at the high end of the Okanagan rental market and are configured for serious wakesurfing and wakeboarding.

### Can I book a private or chauffeured boat experience in Kelowna?
Yes. Captained boat tours launched in 2025. A licensed captain pilots the boat so you can host, relax, or entertain. Popular for proposals, anniversaries, corporate hospitality, and sunset cruises.

### Do you do corporate events or private group rentals?
Yes. Multi-vessel bookings, corporate events, and private group experiences are available. Contact us in advance to coordinate vessel mix and timing.

### Is it safe to rent a boat in Kelowna?
Yes, when handled properly. Every rental at Kelowna Downtown Marina includes a hands-on safety briefing, expert operator training on the dock, Transport Canada-compliant safety gear, free life jackets sized for every guest including children, and a free temporary PCOC. Staff monitor lake and weather conditions and will delay or cancel rentals if conditions become unsafe. No prior boating license is required to rent.

### Is it safe to rent a boat with kids?
Yes, and many of our rentals are well suited for families with children. Pontoons and entry-level runabouts are the most family-friendly options. Properly sized children's life jackets are provided. Staff can recommend the right vessel based on group size and the age of the kids.

### What safety equipment is included with a rental?
All Transport Canada-required equipment is on board and inspected before each rental: approved life jackets for every guest, a throwable flotation device, sound-signalling device, bailer or manual bilge pump where applicable, navigation lights for evening returns, and a re-boarding device. Briefing covers how and when to use each item.

### What happens if the weather turns bad during my rental?
Staff monitor lake and weather conditions. If conditions become unsafe, rentals can be delayed, shortened, or rescheduled. Operators are briefed on how to identify changing conditions and return to the dock early.

### Do you require a license to drive a boat?
Not to rent at Kelowna Downtown Marina. While operating a motorized vessel in Canada generally requires a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), our rental process includes hands-on operator training delivered by our expert staff and a free temporary PCOC valid for the duration of your rental. You do not need to bring a license or take a test in advance.

### Do I need a boating license to rent a boat in Kelowna?
No. A Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) is not required to rent a boat at Kelowna Downtown Marina. Our expert staff provide hands-on operator training as part of every rental, and we issue a temporary PCOC free of charge that covers you for the duration of your rental. First-time boaters and visitors from outside Canada are welcome.

### Can tourists or visitors from outside Canada rent a boat in Kelowna?
Yes. You do not need a Canadian boating license or a PCOC. Our staff complete the required training and provide a free temporary PCOC at the time of rental.

### What is the minimum age to rent a boat?
The renter must be at least 19 years of age and a licensed driver. A boating license (PCOC) is not required; staff training plus a free temporary PCOC is included with every rental.

### What is included with a boat rental?
Every rental includes the following at no extra cost: a hands-on safety briefing, hands-on operator training, a temporary PCOC valid for the rental duration, free life jackets for every guest including children, and all Transport Canada-required safety equipment (throwable flotation, sound-signalling device, bailer, navigation lights, re-boarding device). Fuel is not included and is charged at end of rental based on usage.

### Do you take a deposit?
A damage deposit is held on a credit card at the time of rental and released after the boat is returned undamaged. 

### Can I cancel or reschedule?
Cancellation and reschedule policy depends on timing and weather. Weather cancellations are handled case by case.

### Can I bring my dog on the boat?
Yes, several of our rentals are pet-friendly. Ask when booking. Pets must be kept under control and the boat must be returned in clean condition.

### Where do I park?
Public paid parking is available in the Chapman Parkade and along Water Street, both within a one to two minute walk of the marina.

### Do you rent boats for fishing?
Our rental fleet is configured for recreational use, wakesurfing, wakeboarding, tubing, and cruising. We are not a dedicated fishing charter operator.

### When does boat season start in Kelowna?
The season typically opens in May and runs through September, with peak demand in July and August. May, June, and September often have better availability and lower crowds.

### Where can I buy fuel for my boat in downtown Kelowna?
At our fuel dock. We are the only marine fuel dock in downtown Kelowna.

### Do you have moorage available tonight?
Hourly and overnight moorage is offered subject to space. Call 250-763-5599 to check availability for a specific arrival.

### How is Kelowna Downtown Marina different from other rental operations?
We are downtown, on foot from hotels and restaurants, with the largest rental fleet in the Okanagan, the only downtown fuel dock, and a new MasterCraft wakesurf and wakeboard fleet. Most competing rental operators are located outside of downtown.

### What is the best boat for a first-time renter?
Bayliner Element runabouts (M15 or M17) are the most beginner-friendly. For families wanting more space, the Chaparral H2O 21 Sport bowrider is a popular choice.

### What is the best boat for wakesurfing in Kelowna?
The MasterCraft XT23 is the top wakesurf platform in our fleet, followed by the XT22 and XT22-T.

### What is the best boat for a large group?
Pontoon rentals seat the most guests comfortably and are the best choice for groups of eight or more.

## Boat rentals (links)

- [Boat rentals overview](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/boat-rentals/)
- [MasterCraft XT23 wakesurf boat](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/boat-rentals/mastercraft-xt23.html)
- [MasterCraft XT22 wakesurf boat](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/boat-rentals/mastercraft-xt22.html)
- [MasterCraft XT22-T wakesurf boat](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/boat-rentals/mastercraft-xt22-t.html)
- [Regal LS4 sport bowrider](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/boat-rentals/regal-ls4.html)
- [Cobalt R6 luxury bowrider](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/boat-rentals/cobalt-r6.html)
- [Cobalt R7 luxury bowrider](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/boat-rentals/cobalt-r7.html)
- [Chaparral H2O 21 Sport bowrider](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/boat-rentals/chaparral-h2o-21-sport.html)
- [Bayliner Element M15 runabout](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/boat-rentals/bayliner-element-m15.html)
- [Bayliner Element M17 runabout](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/boat-rentals/bayliner-element-m17.html)
- [Yamaha VX Deluxe jet-ski (Sea-Doo)](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/boat-rentals/yamaha-vx-deluxe.html)
- [Stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rental](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/boat-rentals/sup-paddle-board.html)
- [Kayak rental](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/boat-rentals/kayak.html)

## Marina services (links)

- [Moorage](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/moorage.html)
- [Fuel and retail](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/fuel-and-retail.html)
- [Interactive boater's guide and lake map](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/interactive-boaters-guide.html)
- [Boating questions and FAQ](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/boating-questions.html)

## Information pages (links)

- [About Kelowna Downtown Marina](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/about.html)
- [Contact, hours, and directions](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/contact.html)
- [Careers](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/careers/)
- [Customer reviews](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/reviews.html)
- [Photo gallery](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/photos.html)
- [Brochure](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/brochure/)
- [Privacy policy](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/privacy-policy.html)

## Featured guides (links)

- [How to rent a boat in Kelowna](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/blog/how-to-rent-a-boat-in-kelowna.html)
- [When is boat season in Kelowna?](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/blog/when-is-boat-season-in-kelowna-cruise-cast-and-relax-this-spring.html)
- [Wakeboarding in Kelowna: best boats and beginner tips](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/blog/wakeboarding-in-kelowna-best-boats-beginner-tips.html)
- [Captained boat tours in Kelowna (new for 2025)](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/blog/new-in-kelowna-captained-boat-tours.html)
- [Southern scenic boat route on Okanagan Lake](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/blog/the-southern-scenic-boat-route-you-need-to-cruise-this-summer.html)
- [Planning a summer boat day with teenagers](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/blog/planning-a-summer-boat-day-with-teenagers.html)
- [Family-friendly boating tips](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/blog/is-downtown-marina-family-friendly-boating-tips-for-parents-with-kids.html)
- [Boat rental options for large groups](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/blog/boat-rental-options-for-large-groups-enjoying-lake-okanagan-with-friends-and-family.html)
- [Pet-friendly boat rentals in Kelowna](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/blog/pet-friendly-boat-rentals-in-kelowna-tips-for-bringing-your-furry-friends.html)
- [Top 5 water sports to try in Kelowna](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/blog/top-5-water-sports-to-try-in-kelowna-this-summer.html)
- [Best beaches in the Okanagan](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/blog/which-beaches-are-the-best-in-the-okanagan.html)
- [Kelowna's top lakeside restaurants](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/blog/kelownas-top-restaurants-near-the-lake.html)
- [5 hidden gems of Okanagan Lake](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/blog/5-hidden-gems-of-okanagan-lake.html)
- [Boat safety checklist](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/blog/boat-safety-checklist.html)
- [Sea-Doo rental FAQs](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/blog/seadoo-rental-faqs.html)
- [Moorage 101](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/blog/moorage-101.html)

## Optional

- [Full blog index](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/blog/)
- [XML sitemap](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/sitemap.xml)
- [News and tips](https://kelownadowntownmarina.com/news-tips.html)