At the Helm on Grand Lake: Self-Guided Runs in a Brand‑New 17' Lund

GRAND LAKE BOAT RENTAL FIELD GUIDE

At the Helm on Grand Lake: Self-Guided Runs in a Brand‑New 17' Lund

Rent a new 17' Lund for 1–4 hours on Colorado’s largest natural lake — this guide explains what to expect, what to bring, and the rules that keep your cruise simple and safe.

At the Helm on Grand Lake: Self-Guided Runs in a Brand‑New 17' Lund.

Duration
1 - 4 Hours
Location
Grand Lake
Operator
Grand Lake Marina & Boater's Choice
Category
Boat Rental
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Cruise Colorado’s largest natural lake at your own pace in a brand-new 17' Lund. The self-guided rental seats up to six, offers Bluetooth music and pet-friendly flexibility, and puts sweeping views of Rocky Mountain National Park and the Never Summer Range on steady display—an effortless way to explore Grand Lake from the water.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE BOAT

A New 17' Lund Built for Easy Cruising

The fleet features brand‑new 17' Lund boats — the fastest and most powerful available — configured for up to six passengers and made for comfortable, self-guided sightseeing or a light fishing day.

THE SCENE

Big Mountain Views and Lakeside History

From the water you’ll see sweeping approaches to Rocky Mountain National Park, the jagged profile of the Never Summer Range, and historic cabins that line parts of the shore — the views are the trip’s central draw.

THE RULES

Simple, Strict Limits Keep the Lake Safe

Rentals are limited to Grand Lake (no access to Shadow Mountain Lake), passenger counts are strictly by headcount (including children and pets over 15 lbs), and towing water toys, skis, or wakeboards is not permitted behind rental boats.

What the day feels like

What the Rental Feels Like

Step aboard, start the engine, and point across open water: in short 1–4 hour windows you’ll stitch together a personalized loop of Grand Lake’s wide bays and shoreline. The boat’s power makes covering distance straightforward, while Bluetooth music and room for up to six let you settle into a relaxed, self-directed cruise — whether you’re drifting past historic cabins or angling from a quiet cove.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this rental suits — and who should look elsewhere.

1
Active FamiliesGood fit for families who want an easy, self-paced outing on the water — the boat seats up to six and accommodates children, but total capacity is enforced by headcount.
2
Anglers & Casual FishersSuited to light fishing outings from a stable, powerful craft; the boat’s speed makes reaching productive spots convenient without a guide.
3
Pet OwnersPet-friendly rentals welcome animals, but pets over 15 lbs count toward the maximum passenger headcount and must be included in capacity calculations.
4
Thrill Seekers & Tow SportsNot a match for tow sports — rental boats may not tow tubes, skis, wakeboards, or other water toys.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

Rentals are available in 1–4 hour blocks; plan your route to return to the marina within your booked time.

What to Bring

Bring food and coolers (no alcohol or intoxicants), weather‑appropriate layers (light jacket, rain jacket, or windbreaker), sunglasses, and reef‑safe, non‑spray sunscreen.

Meeting & Pickup

All rentals depart from Grand Lake Marina at 1132 Lake Ave, Grand Lake, CO 80447 — arrive on time to complete orientation and launch within your rental window.

Rules & Capacity

Maximum capacity is determined by headcount and includes all adults, children, infants, and pets over 15 lbs; boats are restricted to Grand Lake only and may not tow water toys.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

What type of license do I need to rent a boat?

A regular government‑issued driver’s license is sufficient; Colorado does not require a separate boater’s license to rent this boat.

Can rentals access Shadow Mountain Lake?

No — none of the motor boats or paddle sports rentals are permitted to enter Shadow Mountain Lake.

Can we tow water toys behind the boat?

No — towing of water toys, tubes, skis, or wakeboards is not permitted behind a rental boat.

Do you have PFDs (life jackets) for children?

Yes — the operator provides PFDs for children; if you bring your own, ensure it is U.S. Coast Guard approved.

Can we load the boat over its stated capacity?

No — capacities are strictly enforced and passenger count is by headcount, including all children and dogs over 15 lbs.