We're here to help you have an incredible day on the water. Below are answers to our most commonly asked questions. If you don't see what you're looking for, call or text us at (402) 306-8309—our team is happy to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
When do you open for the 2026 season?
Nebraska Boating Company opens for the 2026 season on April 15, 2026. Opening dates may be adjusted due to weather or water conditions.
How do I make a reservation?
Reservations may be made online at NebraskaBoatingCompany.com up to 48 hours in advance.
For same-day availability, call or text (402) 306-8309.
Advance reservations are strongly recommended during weekends and holidays.
Why choose Nebraska Boating Company?
At Nebraska Boating Company, your safety is our highest priority.
Every rental includes:
- Required online safety training
- Online safety quiz
- In-person dockside safety briefing
- Hands-on operator instruction
- U.S. Coast Guard required safety equipment
- Staff-assisted launching and docking
- Professionally maintained vessels
- Friendly local staff available to assist throughout your reservation
Whether it's your first time behind the helm or you've been boating for years, we're committed to providing a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience.
What should I do before arriving?
Before your reservation:
- Complete all required waivers.
- Complete the required online safety training and quiz.
- Bring a valid government-issued photo ID.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your reservation.
- Wear clothing appropriate for boating.
- Review our safety rules before departure.
What should I bring?
Please bring:
- Government-issued photo ID
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Water
- Snacks
- Towels
- Waterproof phone case
- Waterproof Bag
- Cooler (no glass containers)
Do you provide life jackets and safety equipment?
Yes.
Every vessel includes all U.S. Coast Guard required safety equipment, including a properly fitted life jacket for every passenger.
Do I launch or trailer the boat?
No.
Nebraska Boating Company launches and recovers every vessel for every reservation.
Your boat will already be in the water and ready when you arrive.
Is fuel included?
Yes.
The first full tank of fuel is included with every Jet Ski and Pontoon Boat rental.
Additional fuel used during your reservation will be billed at the posted fuel rate.
What happens if we're running late?
Please notify us as soon as possible.
Late arrivals may reduce your available time on the water, and late returns may result in additional fees because they affect subsequent reservations. If you no-call, no-show, 30 minutes past the scheduled start time, the vessel is released to the next customer and you forfeit full payment.
What happens if bad weather develops?
Safety always comes first.
If unsafe weather develops before your reservation, we may delay, reschedule, or cancel your reservation.
If severe weather develops while you're on the water, contact Nebraska Boating Company immediately and follow our instructions.
Jet Ski Rental FAQs
Who can operate a Jet Ski?
Operators must:
- Be at least 25 years old
- Present a valid government-issued photo ID
- Successfully complete our safety training
- Demonstrate the ability to safely operate the watercraft
Passengers ages 8–24 must ride with a parent or guardian who is at least 25 years old.
How many people can ride?
Each Jet Ski accommodates up to two people.
Passenger changes are permitted only at the NBC launch dock while staff are present.
Do I need a Nebraska Boater Education Certificate?
Branched Oak Lake & Fremont Lakes
Yes, unless you were born before January 1, 1985.
Carter Lake & Lake Manawa
No.
What should I wear?
Proper swimwear is recommended.
For your comfort and safety, we recommend board shorts, athletic shorts, or similar attire. Bikini bottoms alone are not permitted while operating or riding a Jet Ski.
Pontoon Boat Rental FAQs
Who can operate a pontoon boat?
Approved operators must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Present a valid government-issued photo ID
- Complete our required safety training
- Successfully complete the dockside safety briefing
- Be approved by NBC staff before departure
Only approved operators may operate the vessel.
How many people can ride?
Each pontoon has a maximum passenger capacity of 8 people.
This capacity includes adults, children, and infants and may never be exceeded.
Can we bring food and drinks?
Absolutely.
You're welcome to bring certain food, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Glass containers are not permitted.
Can we swim from the pontoon?
Yes.
Swimming is permitted only when conditions are safe and the boat is securely anchored.
The engine must always be turned off before anyone enters the water.
Swimming is prohibited near launch ramps, marinas, bridges, navigation channels, or any other unsafe location.
Can we fish from the pontoon?
Yes.
Guests are welcome to fish while following all applicable Nebraska and Iowa fishing regulations.
Required fishing licenses are the responsibility of each guest.
Can we bring our dog?
Friendly, well-behaved dogs with trimmed nails are welcome with prior approval.
Owners are responsible for any cleaning or damage caused by their pet.
Can we tow tubes, skis, or wakeboards?
No.
For safety and insurance reasons, towing any person or inflatable behind an NBC rental vessel is prohibited.
Safety Questions
Do you allow alcohol or drugs?
Nebraska Boating Company maintains a zero-tolerance policy for anyone operating a vessel while under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, illegal drugs, or any impairing substance.
Safety always comes first.
What are your most important safety rules?
Every operator agrees to:
- Operate responsibly at all times.
- Obey all No Wake Zones.
- Maintain a safe distance from other boats, docks, swimmers, and hazards.
- Never race, wake jump, or operate recklessly.
- Never intentionally spray people or other vessels.
- Never beach the vessel.
- Avoid operating in shallow water.
- Return to the dock in neutral only.
- Wait for NBC staff before approaching the dock.
- Never use the dock to stop the vessel.
- Wear life jackets whenever required by law or instructed by NBC staff.
What should I do if the boat breaks down?
Remain calm and stay with the vessel.
Call Nebraska Boating Company immediately at (402) 306-8309.
Do not attempt repairs or leave the vessel unless instructed by emergency responders.
What if we accidentally run aground?
Stop immediately.
Do not continue applying throttle.
Contact Nebraska Boating Company before attempting to free the vessel to prevent additional damage.
What happens in an emergency?
If there is an immediate danger to life or someone is seriously injured:
- Call 911 immediately.
- Ensure everyone is wearing a life jacket.
- Contact Nebraska Boating Company at (402) 306-8309 as soon as it is safe to do so.
- Follow the instructions of emergency responders and NBC staff.
