905 342-5555 or 1 855-PLANKRD (752-6573)

Boat Rental FAQ

What are the Rental Time Periods?

Our hours of operation is 8:00am to 8:00pm.  During the week, we are flexible and boats can be rented anytime from 4 hours to 12 hours.  Please contact us to obtain rental rates. 

On weekends during peak season (mid-June to mid-September), we have two separate runs: 

8:00am to 4:00pm OR 4:00pm to 8:00pm.   We also do offer 12 hour rates.  

*All Boats must be returned by the return time indicated on your rental card. Failure to do so will result in late charges of $1.00/Minute after the return time.

Can I take the boat earlier or later then your hours of operation?

This is available only to our Cottage guests.  If you are staying in our facilities, you are welcome to use the boat anytime you like during daylight hours.

Do I need my Operator’s Card to rent a boat?

No, you do not need an Operator’s Card.  With a valid Driver’s License, you can complete a Safety Checklist (we provide at no extra charge) which acts as your temporary license for the duration of the rental.

What do I need to rent a boat?

  • Valid Driver’s license
  • Cell Phone
  • Visa or Mastercard for the Damage Deposit

What is the Cancellation Policy?

Boats can be cancelled 48 hours prior to the rental date with no penalty and your deposit will be refunded to you, less $5.00 Processing Fee.  Cancellations under 48 hours in advance will result in us retaining your $100.00 deposit, unless we are able to re-rent the boat.

What Happens if the Weather is Bad?

Safety comes first!!! Your rental can be cancelled or rescheduled due to harsh weather conditions (High Winds and/or heavy Rain) with no penalty.  Light rain with no winds, does not constitute harsh weather. 

Do I need to bring/rent life jackets or other safety gear?

All our boats are equipped with the legally required safety equipment which is included in your rental.  Any items missing or unreturned will be deducted from your damage deposit. 

Do you sell fishing licenses?

Yes, we do sell fishing license at reception.  You can also purchase your fishing license at most Canadian Tire locations or online here.

Do you have copies of the Ontario fishing regulations?

We are provided with a limited supply of the Regulations.  However, you can find the Ontario fishing regulations online: http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/LetsFish/index.html

Do you sell live bait and tackle?

We do sell worms for live bait $3.50 for 1 Dozen or $7.00 for 2 Dozen, and a small selection of tackle.  We do not sell minnows. 

What dangers are on Rice Lake?

In the 1800’s there were railroad tracks that crossed from the south shore of Harwood to the north shore of Hiawatha.  Over several years, the harsh winter/ice damaged the tracks which caused them to collapse and submerge beneath the water.    To this day, the tracks remain under water creating a severe hazard.  The tracks are unmarked.  There are specified areas marked by buoys but if you are not familiar with the area, it can be tricky to cross.  We do provide our boat renters with a map of the lake. 

Can I bring a BBQ?

Unfortunately, BBQs are not permitted on the boats for safety reasons. However, we are located right beside the Gores Landing Public Wharf/Dock which has picnic tables for use by the public. 

Can we bring extra people to stay on land while we are out on the boat?

Unfortunately, due to our limited space, we do not allow any extra people to stay on land within our facilities.  They are welcome to stay on land and fish off the public wharf/dock.

Can we fish off your docks?

We do not allow public fishing on any of our docks. There is a government dock located outside our facilities which is accessible 24 Hrs / Day.

Can we bring Alcohol on the boats?

The laws for alcohol in boats are exactly the same as it is for cars in Ontario. There is absolutely no alcohol allowed on any of our boats. Enforcement from the O.P.P. is very strict on Rice Lake, and penalties are extremely severe.

Do we have access to public washroom facilities?

Yes, we have 2 individual public washrooms on site. A key must be obtained from the main office.

Can I bring my Dog on the boat?

We do allow smaller dogs or service dogs on our boats. You are fully responsible for their behavior and any damage they may cause.   For the safety of others, all dogs must be on a leash when they are on land. We do not provide life jackets for dogs.