A pedal boat is a small recreational boat powered by your legs, similar to riding a bike on the water. It's an easy way to get outside, cruise through calm waters, and enjoy boating without much experience.
If you're thinking about renting a pedal boat or searching for one for sale, we will break down what to expect.
What Is a Pedal Boat?
A pedal boat is a compact, people-powered boat designed for short rides on calm water. Many models use a paddle wheel at the back, while others use a propeller-style drive system.
Pedal boats are most common on:
- Small lakes and park lagoons
- Reservoirs and protected coves
- Slow-moving waterways with minimal current
How Does a Pedal Boat Work?
These boats are stable and straightforward. You pedal, the drive system turns, and the boat moves forward. Most include:
- Pedals (often two sets, so two people can power it)
- A paddle wheel or propeller drive
- Bench seating
- Basic steering controls
- A small spot for personal items
Since the boat moves slowly, it's easy to enjoy the ride without feeling rushed.
Pedal Boat Vs. Paddle Boat: What's the Difference?
Sometimes this confuses people because the terms are used differently. In many places:
- Pedal boats refer to how it's powered (you pedal with your feet)
- Paddle boats often refer to the paddle-wheel style of drive
That means many paddle boats are also pedal boats, just with a paddle wheel instead of a propeller.
Where Can You Find a Pedal Boat Rental?
A pedal boat rental is usually easiest to find in warm-weather areas and places with calm water.
Common rental locations include:
- Waterfront parks and city lakes
- State parks and recreation areas
- Resorts and campgrounds
- Marinas with small-boat rental fleets
Most rentals are set up for beginners and include a short safety overview before you head out.
What Should You Expect When Renting a Pedal Boat?
Rental companies usually keep things straightforward. You pay, get fitted for safety gear, receive a quick tutorial, and are told to stay within the designated riding area.
Typical rental details:
- Time blocks: often 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Pricing: commonly around $10 to $40 per hour, depending on location and demand
- Capacity: often 2 to 4 people
- Included gear: a life jacket for each rider
Smart rental tips:
- Bring water and sunscreen
- Use a dry bag for phones and keys
- Ask where boat traffic is heaviest
- Stick to calm areas, especially if you're going with kids
Read Next: Boat Rental Safety Checklist
How Much is a Pedal Boat, and Where Can I Buy One?
Buying a new or used pedal boat is less common than renting. However, it can be a fun option if you live near calm water and want a simple way to get out more often.
Typical pedal boat prices
- Used: often a few hundred dollars to around $2,000
- New: often $1,500 to over $5,000, depending on size and features
Where to look for a pedal boat for sale
- Local boat dealers (sometimes special order)
- Outdoor recreation retailers
- Online marketplaces and boating classifieds
What features should you look for?
- A stable hull design
- Comfortable seats with back support
- Smooth steering that feels easy to control
- A weight limit that fits your crew
- Easy-to-clean surfaces and drain plugs
- Optional canopy for shade
Pedal Boat FAQs
Q: What is a pedal boat?
A: A pedal boat is a small boat powered by pedals, with a paddle wheel or propeller drive for moving through calm water.
Q: Pedal boat vs. paddle boat: what's the difference, and how do you steer each?
A: Most pedal boats are steered using a rudder controlled by a wheel or steering handles. A "paddle boat" often refers to a boat that uses a paddle wheel, and many are powered by pedals, so the terms overlap.
Q: How do you steer a paddle boat?
A: To steer this type of boat, there's a rudder under the vessel that's controlled by a small wheel or side steering handles. Turn in the direction you want to go and start your turns early since paddle boats respond gradually.
