Boat Rental FAQ's

What should I bring on board?

A little planning helps things go smoothly the morning of your reservation. You’ll want to bring snacks, plenty of water, towels, and sunscreen. Please keep in mind that drinking and driving laws apply to operating a boat on the lake. We discourage the use of spray sunscreens and prefer that you only use creams. Sprays can stain cushions, are difficult to control, and make surfaces slippery, which can be especially hazardous on the deck of a boat.

We provide PFDs and/or life vests for all passengers but have a limited number of infant sizes available. We also know that children are more willing to comply if they use vests that they are comfortable in and have used before. Therefore, we ask that you consider bringing your own USCG-approved infant life vest. All trash and personal items should be removed from the rental upon return. Excessive filth and trash left on board may incur a cleaning fee.

I have never driven a boat. Can I still rent from you?

Yes. If you hold a valid driver’s license and are 26 years or older, we will show you what you need to know before you leave the dock. Safety is our #1 concern, and we cover a detailed checklist to be sure you and your party feel confident on the water. If you were born after January 1, 1988, you must complete a boater safety education course prior to renting with us.

The course and certification can be found at www.boat-ed.com/northcarolina.

Alternatively, if you prefer not to operate the boat yourself, choose a private cruise! One of our knowledgeable captains will be at the helm and take you on a scenic tour of the lake. Perfect for sunset cruises, a day with grandparents, private parties, or a unique way to celebrate a special milestone. Call for special pricing and available times for sunset package.

Are pets allowed?

We love pets but ask that you keep them at home the day of your rental. For safety reasons and to prevent damage, we do not allow pets on board any of our boats.

Can I pull a tube?

Yes. We provide tubes and tow ropes for an additional charge. You may only tow Over The Toon equipment and use our ropes.

What happens if the weather is poor?

Boats can be rented year-round. We do not cancel unless there is a 70% chance of rain or greater. If inclement weather is forecasted on the day of your reservation, we will reschedule you for another day.

Is gas included in the rental price?

You will start your day with a full tank of gas, and the card on file will be charged when we refuel at the end of your reservation. Do NOT refill the gas tank on your own. Using the incorrect fuel will make you liable for any resulting engine damage.

What if I need to return to the dock for something during my reservation time?

Approach the dock very carefully and slowly. Boats do not have brakes, so you will need to go in reverse to slow down. Attach provided bumpers once you are in the no wake zone to be sure they are in place and protect the boat. Once at the dock, use dock lines to secure boat to the cleats and turn engine off.

Remember that bumpers and dock lines are property of Over the Toon and should be returned to the boat seat storage compartment when not in use.

What if I’m running late the day of my reservation?

We get it – life happens. If you think you will be more than 15 minutes late, please give us the courtesy of a phone call and let us know. We want to be respectful of our fellow boaters and keep the flow of traffic at the loading docks running smoothly.

Do I need to pay a security deposit?

Yes, we require a $200 security deposit be paid at the time of booking. This is intended to cover any damages or cancellations outside our cancellation window. The security deposit will be fully refunded within 7-10 days following your reservation as long as the boat is returned in the same condition as when you left the dock.

Do I need insurance?

We offer insurance at $60 per day, which covers you for up to $1,000 in damages. Without it, you are UNINSURED and will be responsible for the full cost of any damage, replacement parts, and lost revenue due to time boat is out of service. If you rent an accessory, insurance is highly recommended.

GOOD TO KNOW:

Boats can tip over if overloaded! Ensure passenger weight is distributed evenly around the boat and that everybody doesn’t gather in one section or on one side at any time.
Anchors are expensive, and you will be responsible for replacing them if they end up at the bottom of the lake. Be sure the anchor is attached to the toon before releasing it into the water, and always hoist it back onto the deck and stow it before getting underway.
Be sure the ladder is out of the water and secured before getting underway. You will be responsible for any damage or loss resulting from improper use.
Boats come equipped with depth finders. For your safety, check the depth of the lake and enter water for swimming via the ladder or feet first. Diving head first into unknown waters can result in serious injury and death.
We strongly recommend that everyone entering the lake to swim wears a life vest, regardless of swimming ability. Life vests MUST ALWAYS be worn when tubing or doing water sports.
Passengers age 13 and younger must wear a life vest any time the motor is running.
Buoys will be found along the lake and are used to alert boaters to certain hazards or regulations. Most are white with an orange shape on them. Obey ‘no wake’ zones and steer clear of areas with buoys present.
There is a trim button on the gear shifter that moves the motor up and down. The motor must be in the water to work. You generally will not need to use the trim button, but if you accidentally trim the motor up and try to start the engine, it will not work. If the engine will not start, make sure the motor is in the water.
Using the radio requires battery reserves. If you spend the day floating in the water listening to the radio, make sure to occasionally turn the motor on to recharge the battery.