SAUGATUCK BOAT RENTAL FIELD GUIDE
Circle Up on Lake Michigan: Twist Donut Boat Rental for Up to 10 in Saugatuck
A compact guide to renting the Twist donut boat in Saugatuck — 2- or 4-hour, all-ages outings that seat up to 10 and anchor for swimming or a stop at the Red Dock cafe.
Circle Up on Lake Michigan: Twist Donut Boat Rental for Up to 10 in Saugatuck.
Twist is a circular “donut” boat offered by Retro Boat Rentals in Saugatuck that seats groups of friends and families around a central table for food and drinks; it can be anchored or beached in a nearby cove for swimming or run up to the sister waterfront bar, the Red Dock cafe, for a lakeside stop.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A social, circular platform for groups
Twist holds up to 10 people (at 1,925 lbs or less) and centers the group around a round table that keeps snacks and drinks within easy reach—built for conversation and shared downtime on the water.
Anchor, swim, or beach in a cozy cove
These donut boats can be anchored or beached in a sheltered cove before Lake Michigan, turning a rental into a shallow-water hangout for swimming, lounging, and easy access to the shoreline.
A short run to the Red Dock cafe
Rentals can include a run to the nearby Red Dock cafe—Retro Boat Rentals’ sister waterfront bar—making it simple to tie a boating afternoon to food and drinks onshore.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
A Twist rental is compact and convivial: passengers board at the rental dock, settle around the central table, and cruise short stretches of water before choosing to drop anchor in a protected cove for swimming or to motor to the Red Dock cafe for a shoreline pause—an easy, social way to spend two or four hours on the water.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most from a Twist rental—and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Rentals are offered in two- or four-hour blocks; plan your outing length around swimming stops or a run to the Red Dock cafe.
Check in at the Retro Boat Rentals location: 730 Water Street, Saugatuck, MI 49453 for boarding and safety briefing prior to departure.
Bring swimsuits, towels, and non-AVOBENZONE sunscreen (tinted sunscreens and tanning products are prohibited). The operator also sells sunscreen onboard.
No outside alcohol or coolers are allowed; Retro Boat Rentals provides coolers, ice, and a selection of adult and non-alcoholic beverages and some snacks for purchase at the Old Boat House/Retro Boat Rentals.
Day-of rebooking is not allowed unless it's raining; allow up to 48 hours to rebook a reservation.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How many people can ride the Twist donut boat?
The Twist holds up to 10 passengers with a total weight limit of 1,925 lbs.
How long can I rent the boat for?
Rentals are offered in two- or four-hour blocks.
Where is the meeting point?
The meeting location is 730 Water Street, Saugatuck, MI 49453.
Can I bring my own alcohol or cooler?
No—outside alcohol and coolers are not permitted; the operator provides coolers, ice, and a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for purchase.
Are there restrictions on sunscreen or tanning products?
Yes—tinted sunscreen and tanning products that stain seats are prohibited; use non-AVOBENZONE sunscreen only; sunscreen is available for purchase.
Can I rebook on the day of my rental if plans change?
No—day-of rebooking is not allowed unless it is raining; allow up to 48 hours to rebook a boat.