Sunlit Runs and Sandbar Lunches: Captain-Driven 25' Deck Boat off New Buffalo

NEW BUFFALO BOAT RENTAL FIELD GUIDE

Sunlit Runs and Sandbar Lunches: Captain-Driven 25' Deck Boat off New Buffalo

A like-new 25' deck boat from Oselka Marina with a captain aboard for tubing, skiing, or a relaxed shoreline cruise with stops for swimming and picnics.

Sunlit Runs and Sandbar Lunches: Captain-Driven 25' Deck Boat off New Buffalo.

Duration
2, 3, 6 or 9 Hours
Location
New Buffalo
Operator
Oselka Marina
Category
Boat Rental
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Off the shores of New Buffalo, Lake Michigan opens into broad water and wind-born light; aboard a premium 25' deck boat, the day becomes a sequence of surf runs, tow-sports bursts and anchored stillness at a sandbar. With a captain handling the helm you skip the logistics and focus on tubing, water-skiing or dropping anchor for a picnic and a swim—the kind of uncomplicated, sun-rich outing that remembers why people come to the lake.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE BOAT

A premium, captain‑crewed 25' deck boat

The craft is a like-new 25' deck boat with a captain aboard so your group can ride, tow or cruise without someone needing to drive the crew around.

THE ACTIVITY

Tubing, skiing and open-water runs

The boat is set up for tow-sports—tubing and water-skiing are core uses—letting you trade shoreline time for adrenaline on the wake.

THE BREAK

Sandbar stops for swimming and picnics

The captain can locate a sandbar and drop anchor so the crew can swim, sun and share a picnic away from the shore.

What the day feels like

What the day feels like

Mornings start with a quick briefing while the captain readies the boat; then the engine answers and you carve away from the marina into open water. The tempo shifts between high-energy towing runs and slow, warm stretches at the anchor where swims and a picnic punctuate the day. The captain handles navigation and mooring, leaving your party to calibrate between adrenaline and sun-baked quiet.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this outing suits best — and who should think twice.

1
Active familiesWell suited: families who want a mix of tow-sports and relaxed swimming stops. Note that a parent or legal guardian must sign for any minors and all adults must be present to sign waivers.
2
Water‑sports groupsIdeal for groups focused on tubing and skiing—the boat is equipped for towing and the captain will handle the driving while the group tows behind.
3
Larger groupsA good match for groups up to the advertised passenger limit—plan logistics around the maximum party size and waiver requirements.
4
Day‑trip picnickersPerfect for those who want a leisurely day on the water with a picnic and a sandbar swim rather than a prolonged coastal charter.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

Choose from 2-, 3-, 6- or 9-hour rentals to match your agenda and tides.

What to Bring

Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at a sandbar; pack sun protection and swimwear for anchored stops.

Logistics & Security

All adults in the rental party must be present to sign waivers; the operator takes a pre-authorization security hold (a deposit) on a credit card for the boat.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

Can one person show up and then pick up others at the beach?

No. All people in the rental party at least 18 years old must be present to sign a waiver as well as the parent or legal guardian of all minors under 18.

Is there a security deposit required?

Yes. The operator takes a $1,000 security deposit pre-authorization for the boat (and $500 for jet skis); the card is held until the vessel is returned without damage.

How far can we take the boat?

You are allowed to venture within approximately an 8-mile radius—roughly from Michigan City to the west to Lakeside to the east.

Can I rent tubes, water skis or a wakeboard with the boat?

Yes. Tubes are available for $20–$60, skis for $25, and a wakeboard for $30; these can be arranged at pick-up.

Are towing devices allowed with jet ski rentals?

No. Due to safety concerns, there is no towing allowed with jet ski rentals.