Slow Days on Tawas Bay: Rent a Classic 1996 Sweetwater Pontoon and Cruise Tawas Point

EAST TAWAS BOAT RENTAL FIELD GUIDE

Slow Days on Tawas Bay: Rent a Classic 1996 Sweetwater Pontoon and Cruise Tawas Point

An economy pontoon rental from Jerry's Marina — seats eight, starts at $285, and is the simplest way to patrol calm Tawas Bay without leaving the harbor.

Slow Days on Tawas Bay: Rent a Classic 1996 Sweetwater Pontoon and Cruise Tawas Point.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
East Tawas
Operator
Jerry's Marina
Category
Boat Rental
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Jerry’s Marina rents Economy pontoon boats — 1996 Sweetwater 180ST models — for relaxed cruising around Tawas Point Harbor and the calm waters of Tawas Bay. These rentals are built for small groups who want an easy day on the water with straightforward rules and local stewardship behind the operation.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE BOAT

Economy Pontoon — Seats 8

The fleet’s Economy pontoon carries up to eight people (1,623 lb capacity) and is priced from the operator’s published starting rate, offering an uncomplicated platform for cruising and sunset watching.

THE HERITAGE

A Marina with Seven Decades on the Water

Jerry’s Marina carries a lineage of local boating that began in 1946; today the operation runs a full-service marina and rental fleet while keeping the community-facing traditions the harbor has known for 70 years.

THE SETTING

Calm Bay Cruising and Tawas Bay Sunsets

Rentals put you into the sheltered calm of Tawas Bay for easy cruising around Tawas Point and the harbor, with reliable views over the bay as daylight fades.

What the day feels like

What the day feels like

A rental from Jerry’s is an uncomplicated day afloat: load up the pontoon at the marina, ease into Tawas Point Harbor, and cruise the bay on a shallow-draft platform that invites slow exploration and lingering sunsets.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this rental suits — and who should look elsewhere.

1
Small groups & familiesSeats up to eight people with a modest payload capacity, making the boat a practical choice for family outings and small groups seeking calm-water cruising.
2
Independent drivers (18+)Renters and drivers must be age 18 or older and ready to present required documentation, so this option fits self-sufficient adults rather than unaccompanied minors.
3
Novice boatersThe sheltered nature of Tawas Bay and the pontoon’s stability make it suitable for inexperienced operators — provided the driver holds a valid boater’s safety certificate as required.
4
People seeking short, local cruisesBecause rentals must stay inside Tawas Bay and not pass the East Tawas State Docks, the experience is best for those looking for short, scenic loops rather than open-lake passages.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Bring a valid boater’s safety certificate and photo ID; the operator requires a $500 security deposit at check-in. Rentals are for ages 18+ (driver and renter) and the vessel seats up to eight people with a listed payload capacity.

Cost & capacity

The operator lists a starting rate (from $285) and the economy pontoon seats eight (1,623 lb capacity); budget for the required security deposit upon arrival.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How many people fit on the pontoon?

The economy pontoon holds up to eight people and has a listed capacity of 1,623 pounds.

What is the minimum age to rent and drive?

Renters and drivers must be age 18 or older.

Where am I allowed to take the boat?

All rentals must stay within Tawas Bay and may not travel past the East Tawas State Docks.

Is a boater’s safety certificate required?

Yes — a valid boater’s safety certificate must be presented at pickup.

Is there a security deposit?

Yes — a $500 security deposit is required upon arrival for all pontoon rentals.

Who operates the rentals?

Jerry’s Marina operates the Economy pontoon rentals at Tawas Point.