Adventure brief
Pontoon Rental • 90 Horsepower
Take control of a powerful pontoon boat on South Carolina’s largest lake with Wateree Marina. Perfect for groups, these 90-hp vessels offer a full day of tailored water adventure just outside Camden.
Wateree Marina in Camden, South Carolina, puts the power and freedom of the water in your hands with their 90-horsepower pontoon rentals. Situated on the sprawling Wateree Reservoir—the largest lake in South Carolina—this marina offers a gateway to diverse aquatic landscapes, from wide-open waves to sheltered coves fringed by mixed pine and hardwood forests. Whether you're a family of anglers, a group of friends chasing a day of sun and splash, or simply craving a chill boat trip, these pontoons accommodate up to seven passengers comfortably while delivering smooth handling and reliable speed.
The Wateree Reservoir is known for its exceptional bass fishing, calm stretches ideal for wakeboarding, and secluded coves that invite picnics and wildlife spotting. Renting a pontoon here means setting your own pace—no schedules, no crowds—just a full day carving your route between sandy riverbanks and rocky outcrops. The 90-horsepower engines provide enough muscle to slice through gentle waves without overwhelming even novice operators, and with no anchors supplied, the emphasis is on continuous cruising and discovery.
Wateree Marina stands out as a local hub for boating enthusiasts in the Camden area, offering well-maintained vessels and straightforward rental policies that require renters to be 21 or older, ensuring safety and smooth operations. The absence of life jackets for children under 90 pounds is a crucial note for families to plan accordingly. Beyond boating, the surrounding landscape teems with bird species like ospreys and herons, while occasional glimpses of white-tailed deer along the shoreline add to the wild atmosphere.
The lake’s history is tied to early 20th-century hydroelectric development, shaping the reservoir into today’s multifaceted recreation spot. Wateree Marina’s pontoon rentals deliver accessible, memorable water experiences that merge relaxation with a touch of adventure—perfect for soaking up long South Carolina days and making lasting outdoor memories.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Bring a Valid Driver’s Licenseessential
Renters must present a valid driver's license to operate the pontoon at Wateree Marina.
- 02Pack Life Jackets for Kids Under 90 Poundswarning
Wateree Marina does not provide life jackets for children under 90 lbs, so bring your own to ensure safety.
- 03Fuel Up Before You Goinfo
Check fuel levels and fill up if necessary, as rentals come with powerful 90-hp engines that can consume fuel steadily.
- 04No Anchors Providedinfo
Plan your trip with continuous cruising or swimming stops at accessible shorelines, since anchors aren’t supplied with pontoon rentals.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from glare reflecting off the water during long sunny days.
summerEssentialLife Jackets
Bring personal flotation devices especially for children under 90 pounds.
EssentialWaterproof Bag
Keep your belongings dry while on the boat during unexpected splashes or rain.
Sunscreen
Apply regularly to prevent sunburn when exposed to reflective sunlight on the water.
spring|summer|fallEssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Quiet coves on the northern shore with excellent fishing spots, Secluded picnic areas accessible only by boat near Horse Landing
Local fauna
Ospreys fishing over open water, White-tailed deer along the shoreline at dawn
Historic heritage
The Wateree Reservoir was created in the 1920s as part of hydroelectric projects, shaping the current lake environment.
Mindful exploration
Wateree Marina encourages catch-and-release fishing practices and stresses minimizing fuel spills to protect the reservoir ecosystem.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Shoreline near Horse Landing, Open water vistas toward the dam, Sunset views from the west side of the lake
- Subjects
- Dramatic cloud reflections on the water, Wading birds like herons and egrets, Pontoon boats in action against natural backdrops
- Best times
- Golden hour, Early morning, Late afternoon
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need a boating license to rent a pontoon?
No state boating license is required, but renters must be at least 21 years old and show a valid driver’s license.
How many people can fit on the pontoon boats?
Each pontoon can comfortably seat up to seven passengers.
Are life jackets included in the rental?
Life jackets are provided for adults, but renters must bring their own for children under 90 pounds.
What kind of power do the boats have?
Each rental features a 90-horsepower engine, balancing power and ease of use.
Can I anchor the boat and swim?
No anchors are provided, so plan for swimming near shorelines or while the boat is stationary in shallow water.
Is there a time limit on the rentals?
Rentals range from 8 hours up to 5 days, with options to extend duration during checkout.