Question 1

Do I need a reservation for a pontoon?

Accepted Answer

We highly recommend that you make a reservation to ensure that your party will have a boat. We only reserve boats for the day rate NOT the hourly rate.

Reservations are made online here (https://big-creek-marina.checkfront.com/reserve/)

Question 2

Can I rent a pontoon by the hour?

Accepted Answer

Yes, however we do not reserve boats by the hour, only for the day rate. Hourly rentals are strictly on a first come first serve basis.

Question 3

Can I reserve smaller watercrafts?

Accepted Answer

No, all of our smaller watercrafts are on a first come first serve basis.

Question 4

What is required for rentals?

Accepted Answer

Pontoons: Need to be 23 years old with a valid license/passport and credit or debit card for damages.

Fishing Boats: Need to be 18 years old with a valid license/passport.

Sailboats: You must have prior knowledge of sailing (we do NOT teach sailing) you must assume responsibility for sailboat.

All Other Watercrafts: Need a form of collateral (ID, credit or debit card, or passport).

Question 5

How do I rent a boat?

Accepted Answer

The boat rental building is located by the beach at the end of the parking lot where you will fill out paperwork and leave a form of collateral (ID, credit or debit card, or passport) that we hold on to while on rental equipment. Once you have completed your paperwork you will go to the back of the building where one of our employees will assist you with your rental. Upon return of your rental, you will go to the front where you pay for your rental and collect your form of collateral.

Question 6

If I reserved a pontoon, can I pay hourly?"

Accepted Answer

No, all pontoons are reserved strictly at the daily rate. Even if the pontoon is only used for a couple of hours you will still be charged the daily rate as we have held the pontoon for your party in advance.

Question 7

Can I reserve a pontoon for the day and pay in cash instead of credit card?

Accepted Answer

Yes, however this will have to be done in person at the Marina and full payment is required upfront. Same cancellation policies apply as reserving online.

Question 8

Can I cancel a pontoon rental?

Accepted Answer

CANCELLATION POLICY: We understand unforeseen circumstances arise that prevent you or others in your party from keeping your reservation, however we are holding a boat for your party which does not allow others to make reservations. In the event of a cancellation you must call 5 days prior to receive 85% back of your payment, calling 3 days prior you will receive 50% back of your payment, under 3 days you will not receive any money back. Call the Marina at 515-984-6083.

RESCHEDULING: You may reschedule your rental if you cannot make it 2 days prior to your reservation. We will only reschedule your rental 1 time and if you choose not to reschedule you will lose your payment. Call the Marina at 515-984-6083.

WEATHER POLICY: Big Creek Owners reserve the right to cancel rentals if weather is questionable this includes: High winds, lightning, heavy rain, threatening weather, or severe storm damage, this does not include : water quality issues, overcast skies, light rain, or high heat warnings. In the case of above weather related issues that would prevent rentals out on the water, we are happy to reschedule bookings at no cost, however refunds will not be administered. Call the Marina at 515-984-6083.

Question 9

Can I enter the water from the pontoon?

Accepted Answer

Entering the water from the pontoon is at your own risk. DO NOT ENTER THE WATER IF: the boat is not anchored, without your flotation device on, you do not know how to swim, high winds, or while the motor is running.

Question 10

Can I bring alcohol on the pontoon?

Accepted Answer

Yes, with the understanding that the driver must be 23 years of age and designated as non-drinking. No kegs or hard alcohol will be permitted. Drinking and driving on a boat is still subject to an OWI or DUI.

Question 11

Can I tow a tube behind the boat?

Accepted Answer

No, towing is not permitted behind our watercrafts; the DNR has a 5 mile per hour limit on the lake.

Question 12

Is there a grill on the boat or may I bring my own?

Accepted Answer

No grilling is allowed on our boats.

Question 13

How old do I have to be to rent a boat?

Accepted Answer

Minimum age for pontoon rentals is 23, fishing boats 18 and all other rentals have no age requirement as long as the renter is physically able to operate the rental equipment and has permission from parent or guardian.