Get In Touch
Contact Info
- 900 Bay Street Gravenhurst ON P1P 1Z9 Canada
- 705-710-1900
- booking@matchlessadventures.com
- Mon - Sun: 9:00 TO 19:00 HRS
⚓ All Aboard — Let's Talk Ground Rules
We want you out there having the best day on Muskoka's waters. These terms keep everyone safe, smiling, and coming back for more. Quick read. Worth it.
🪪The Essentials Before You Cast Off
You must be 18 years of age or older to be the registered operator of any of our watercraft. The operator named on the rental agreement is the only person permitted to operate the vessel — so pick your captain wisely. You must also let us know in advance about any other potential operators (18+) and all passengers joining the trip.
Life jackets (PFDs) for everyone on board — provided at no extra cost. We also provide basic vessel orientation before you head out. The rest of the adventure? That's all you. 🌊
All operators are responsible for knowing and following Ontario Boating Laws & Regulations. We provide the boat — you bring the knowledge. If you're unsure about any rules before your trip, give us a call: (705) 710-1900.
💎Captain's Pearls of Wisdom
Straight from our Captains — 18 rules that separate the legends from the legends-who-had-to-call-for-help. Read them. Live them. Love them.
You're the Captain — Own It
All operators must comply with Ontario boating laws. It's on you to know the rules of the water before you leave the dock.
Zero Alcohol. Full Stop.
Provincial law means absolutely no alcohol on board — ever. We reserve the right to inspect coolers and bags before boarding. Caught with booze? Rental cancelled. No refund. Seriously.
Life Jackets Are Non-Negotiable
One PFD per person plus one throwable on board, always. Kids 12 and under must wear theirs at all times — Ontario law. Check your gear before you go.
The Bow Is Not a Thrill Ride
No passengers on the front of the boat, ever. Falling off the bow of a moving vessel and meeting the propeller ends badly. Keep all gates closed when the motor is running.
The Propeller Has No Mercy
Never swim near the rear of the boat or around the motor. The propeller will severely injure — or worse. No exceptions, no negotiations.
Eyes on the Water, Always
Watch for other boats, swimmers, and obstacles in all directions. Get your passengers to help keep watch too. Always yield the right of way.
Know Where You Are
Keep a chart on board and reference it. Know your departure point, your return location, and where you are at all times. Getting lost is not a feature.
Beaches Are Off Limits
Do NOT approach public beach areas — it's provincial law. No beaching on any beach or shoreline. Dock only at designated public docks. The sand stays on the shore.
Mind Your Head at Bridges
Always check your vessel's height and clearance before going under any bridge. Proceed slowly. What goes in must be able to come back out — undamaged.
Slow Down Near Docks & No-Wake Zones
Keep it slow when arriving or departing dock areas. Watch for and obey all posted speed limits and No Wake zones. The wake you make is your responsibility.
No Cooking. No Fires. At All.
No grilling, no cooking, and absolutely no open flames on board. The lake is beautiful — let's keep it from becoming a news story.
Shallow Water? Motor Up!
When entering shallow water, raise your motor — but keep the propeller and anti-cavitation plate submerged. Grinding the motor on rock isn't covered under "ordinary wear and tear."
Ladder Up Before You Start Up
Always raise and retract the ladder before starting the motor and when in shallow water. Ladders bend and break easily — and they're your responsibility.
Know How to Start Your Motor
Ensure the motor is trimmed down so the propeller and anti-cavitation plate are fully submerged before starting. We'll walk you through it during your orientation.
Fuel Is Your Responsibility
Check your gauge before and during your trip. You can refuel at any marina on the lake. Any fuel not replaced on return will be charged back to you accordingly.
Know Your Return Time
All rentals are due back by 6:00 PM EST at the latest. Your return time is on your pre-trip checklist. Don't be that person — the one calling us from the middle of the lake at 6:10.
No Smoking on Board
No smoking on any of our boats. Full stop. Light up on shore — not on our watercraft.
Pets? Ask First.
We love fur babies — but you'll need management permission before bringing any pet on board. Any damage caused by your four-legged crew member will be charged to you.
💳The $2,500 Security Deposit — Here's How It Works
We collect a security deposit for every watercraft rented. Think of it as our "we trust you" handshake — we're confident you'll bring it back just as you found it.
Security Deposit: $2,500.00 per watercraft
Here's what happens to that money:
🏠Bringing It Home — Return Conditions
We want our boats back the same way they left — happy, clean, and fueled. Here's what that looks like:
- Return the vessel to the same pick-up location by your agreed return time (no later than 6:00 PM EST)
- Boat must be clean and free of garbage and debris — we'll do a full inspection on arrival
- All parts, accessories, rigging, upholstery, and fiberglass in the same condition as rented (normal wear and tear is totally fine)
- Fuel replaced to the level you departed with — or we charge accordingly
- All safety equipment (life jackets, throwable PFD, etc.) accounted for and returned
Returned it dirty? A cleaning fee of up to $200 may apply if the boat comes back excessively dirty or sandy. Pick up after your crew.
📅If Plans Change — Cancellation Policy
- 48-hour cancellation policy — cancel at least 48 hours before your rental to avoid charges
- No refunds for equipment returned early — your rental period is your rental period
- No refunds or discounts for weather — Muskoka weather is part of the adventure (we know, we know)
- All rentals are due back no later than 6:00 PM EST
- Watercraft must not be left unattended at any time during the rental period
Questions about a booking? Call us at (705) 710-1900 or email booking@matchlessadventures.com — we'll always try to work something out where we can.
⚖️The Legal Bit (We'll Keep It Plain English)
Waiver & Release of Liability — Ontario
By renting with Matchless Adventures Inc., all renters, operators, and passengers acknowledge that water activities carry inherent risks — changing currents, other watercraft, weather, equipment, and more. You're voluntarily participating and accept those risks.
You agree to release and hold harmless Matchless Adventures Inc. from liability for personal injury or property loss during your rental, except in cases of gross negligence or intentional wrongdoing on our part. You also agree to indemnify us for any injury or damage caused to third parties during your rental period.
If you have not purchased insurance, you are personally liable for any damage to the boat.
By signing the rental agreement, you confirm you have read, understood, and agreed to all of these terms — including on behalf of any minor children in your care. The full legal waiver document is provided at time of booking and signing is required before any rental commences.
These terms are governed by the laws of the Province of Ontario and applicable federal laws of Canada.
Ready to Make Some Memories?
You've read the rules. You're practically a Captain already. Now let's get you on the water.
Book Your Adventure Or call us: (705) 710-1900 | booking@matchlessadventures.comFurther Reading
⚓ Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need before you cast off.
Do I need a boating license to rent?
In Canada, anyone operating a motorized boat needs a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) — sometimes called a boating license. It's quick to get online at Transport Canada if you don't have one. We'll ask to see it before you cast off. No card, no captaining.
What if the weather turns terrible on my rental day?
Muskoka weather has opinions of its own, and unfortunately it doesn't take cancellation requests. We don't offer refunds or discounts for rain. Pro tip: a pontoon in a light drizzle with a cooler full of snacks hits different. Book it anyway.
Can I extend my rental if I'm not ready to come back?
Maybe — if the boat isn't already booked after you. Call us as early in the day as possible. Extensions are charged at the standard hourly rate and the boat must still be back no later than 6:00 PM EST. No exceptions on the curfew.
What if I run out of fuel on the lake?
You can refuel at any marina on the lake — we'll point you in the right direction during your briefing. Boats go out full; they come back full. Whatever you use and don't replace gets charged back at marina rates. Math tip: just fill it up.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs: yes, with management permission booked in advance. We love a good first mate. Any damage caused by your four-legged crew member is on you — including upholstery. Cats: we've never been asked. We respect the chaos.
What exactly happens with the $2,500 deposit?
It stays on hold until the boat comes back clean and undamaged — then it's fully released. If there's minor damage, repair costs come out of it. Boat comes back pristine? Full refund, no drama. Think of it as our 'we trust you' handshake.