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Saugatuck’s #1 Boat Rental

Experience Saugatuck with private boat rentals for small groups and mid-size parties, up to 16 passengers. Cruise the Kalamazoo River or head out onto Lake Michigan for an unforgettable experience.

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Retro Boats    Pontoons    Tritoons

Donut Boats    Duffy Boats

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EXPLORE OUR
FEATURED BOATS

The Saugatuck boat rental offers private boat rentals for small groups and mid-size parties, up to 16 passengers.

Retro Boats

Up to 5 passengers Kalamazoo River

Pontoon Boats

Up to 16 passengers Kalamazoo River

Tritoon Boats

Up to 14 passengers Lake Michigan

Donut Boats

Up to 10 passengers Kalamazoo River

Duffy Boats

Up to 12 passengers Kalamazoo River
  • NO OUTSIDE ALCOHOL OR COOLERS
  • NO BOATER LICENSE REQUIRED
  • Customers drive their own boats. We do NOT offer captains.
  • We offer adult beverages at The Old Boat House, Retro Boat Rentals.
  • We provide coolers and ice, and a wide selection of domestic and craft beer, wine, hard ciders & seltzers, mixed drinks in cans, and bottles of wine and champagne to purchase.
  • We also have non-alcoholic drinks and some snacks.
  • Feel free to bring your own snacks, but again, NO OUTSIDE COOLERS.
  • PLEASE NO TINTED SUNSCREEN OR TANNING PRODUCTS, they stain our seats.
  • Use non-AVOBENZONE sunscreen only, we also have sunscreen for purchase.
Two smiling women in a boat by a lake with a 'No Wake Zone' sign.

ABOUT RETRO BOAT RENTALS

Experience the Best Boat Rentals in Saugatuck & Douglas

Step back in time with our meticulously maintained fleet of rare classic fiberglass runabout boats. Originally from the iconic jet-age era (1958-1963), these vintage beauties are now available for everyone to enjoy on the scenic Kalamazoo River and the waterways of Saugatuck and Douglas, Michigan.

With their signature fanciful fins, retro colors, and gleaming chrome details, our boats retain every bit of their mid-century style—but with a modern, eco-friendly twist. We have retro-fitted our entire fleet with quiet electric motors, providing an environmentally friendly way to enjoy the fresh Michigan air and easy conversation without the noise of a traditional engine.

Versatile Rentals for Every Group

Beyond our classic runabouts, Retro Boat Rentals offers a variety of ways to get on the water:

– Pontoon Boat Rentals: Perfect for larger groups and family outings.

– Donut Boats: A unique, social way to dine and cruise.

– Duffy Boats: Smooth, electric cruising for sophisticated harbor tours.

The Ultimate Waterfront Destination

Our docks are located at The Old Boathouse and the Red Dock Cafe, two premier Saugatuck waterfront bars and restaurants. Whether you are booking a boat rental or simply looking to enjoy a meal on our beautiful patio overlooking the river, come experience the most unique atmosphere in West Michigan.

A Waterfront Restaurant on the Kalamazoo River

Located behind Retro Boats, at 730 Water Street in Saugatuck, The Old Boat House features a large waterfront patio along the Kalamazoo River that’s perfect for casual outdoor lunch, dinner, or appetizers. Friendly bartenders offer unique craft cocktails, or enjoy the large beer, wine, and cider selection, with many local and Michigan offerings. The Old Boat House is home to Retro Boat Boat Rentals, vintage mid-century boats with retro-fitted electric motors.

Waterfront buildings and boats at sunset with pink umbrellas.

RATED ★★★★★ ON GOOGLE AND TRIPADVISOR

What our Customers are Saying

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“Fun and easy going!”

The staff was so fun and easy going! They did an excellent job at giving directions and even offer to take a picture of everyone in the boat! It was great for us and the kids too! We will do this again!

– Jenika T. · Google Review
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“Spend the day on the water!”

We had a great time on the Donut Boat. The staff at Retro Boat were very friendly and accommodating. The boat was clean and the scenery beautiful. An awesome way to spend the day on the water!

– Cindy K. · Tripadvisor Review
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“Easy to drive”

This is the most fun I had all summer! Retro boats are a great way to chill and discover Saugatuck via the water. Easy to drive and just a blast. Hook up some great tunes to one of their speakers and you're are all set. The donut boats are great for larger groups.

– Mindy T. · Google Review
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“Highly recommend”

We had a fantastic evening renting a donut boat from 7-9 pm. It was a perfect time to enjoy views of the lake, homes, and sunset! It was nice to bring our own snacks on board. I highly recommend the experience!

– abrown617 · Tripadvisor Review

Our Family of Entertainment

Crowded dock with people sitting and standing, under a tent on a sunny day.
Red Dock Bar and Restaurant

219 N Union St
Douglas, MI
(269) 857-2185

Sunset over a riverside with buildings and boats docked.
The Old Boathouse

730 Water Street
Saugatuck, MI 49453
(616) 405-6688

Woman driving pink boat with a dog on a lake, both smiling.
Retro Boat and Pontoon Rentals

730 Water Street
Saugatuck, MI 49453
(616) 405-6688