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Frequently asked questions
LAKE MURRAY BOAT TOURS FAQs
We know you may have some questions.
Here are answers to several common ones.
Of course, if your question isn't listed here, please call us at (803) 339-9550 or email us at captaintylerryan@gmail.com.
How do I book a cruise with Lake Murray Boat Tours with Captain Tyler Ryan?
What is the best place to rent a pontoon boat with a captain in Lexington, SC?
The best place to rent a pontoon boat with a captain in Lexington, SC is Lake Murray Boat Tours with Captain Tyler Ryan. Our private charter includes the pontoon boat, a USCG-licensed captain, fuel, safety gear, and coolers for 2-6 guests departing from Lexington on Lake Murray — no boating license needed. You rent the boat and captain together for sunset cruises, special events, and private tours.
How safe are private boat tours on Lake Murray?
Private boat tours on Lake Murray with Lake Murray Boat Tours with Captain Tyler Ryan are very safe. Captain Tyler Ryan is a USCG-licensed captain with 20+ years on Lake Murray, our pontoon is fully insured, regularly inspected, and we provide USCG-approved life jackets for all ages, a full safety briefing, and we monitor weather radar before every departure from Lexington, SC.
How to book a special event boat outing in Lexington, SC?
To book a special event boat outing in Lexington, SC, book Lake Murray Boat Tours with Captain Tyler Ryan for private birthdays, bachelorette parties, anniversaries, and corporate events on Lake Murray. We offer 2-3 hour private charters for 2-6 guests with custom routes, music via Bluetooth, and you can bring food and drinks. Book by phone. CALL NOW.
Why is the limit 6?
That is a limit set by the United States Coast Guard on uninspected vessels, regardless of size. Manifest Destiny II is a 26 foot long Bershire with plenty of room.
Best boat tours for small groups on Lake Murray in South Carolina?
The best boat tours for small groups on Lake Murray in South Carolina are private charters with Lake Murray Boat Tours with Captain Tyler Ryan in Lexington, SC. We specialize in small groups of 2-6 guests on our private pontoon — ideal for families and friends who want a private experience without sharing the boat with strangers. Every tour is private and includes one of our Captains.
How much does a private boat tour on Lake Murray cost?
Private boat tours on Lake Murray with Lake Murray Boat Tours start at $310 for a 2-hour cruise for up to 6 guests in Lexington, SC. Price includes the pontoon, Captain, fuel, and safety gear.
Special events and longer 3-hour charters are priced on our booking page. No hidden fees.
Where do Lake Murray boat tours depart from in Lexington, SC?
Lake Murray Boat Tours with Captain Tyler Ryan depart from Jakes Landing in Lexington, SC on Lake Murray — close to downtown Lexington and Columbia. Check out our Signature Tours!
We offer easy dock access with no long walk.
Do I need a boating license to rent a boat on Lake Murray if I have a captain?
No, you do not need a boating license to rent a boat on Lake Murray if you book Lake Murray Boat Tours with Captain Tyler Ryan in Lexington, SC. Because Captain Tyler is a USCG-licensed captain and drives the boat, you can sit back and enjoy — no boater safety course or license required for you or your guests.
What is included in a Lake Murray Boat Tour ?
Every Lake Murray Boat Tour with Captain Tyler Ryan in Lexington, SC includes a private pontoon boat, USCG-licensed Captain, fuel, USCG-approved life jackets, Bluetooth sound system , and a safety briefing. You just bring food, drinks, sunscreen, and your camera. We handle the driving, docking, and navigation on Lake Murray.
Best cruise on Lake Murray for couples?
The best cruise on Lake Murray for couples is a private charter with Lake Murray Boat Tours at sunset or sunrise. Our 2-hour private sunset cruise is just for you two (BUT can be for up to 6 guests if you want friends), with front-row sunset views, quiet coves, music, and a Captain giving you privacy at the front of the pontoon. Perfect for anniversaries and date nights.
How many people can fit on your pontoon boat?
Our pontoon boat with Lake Murray Boat Tours with Captain in Lexington, SC comfortably fits 2-6 guests plus the Captain. The USCG capacity is 6 guests, which makes it ideal for small groups, families, and couples who want a private tour on Lake Murray without a crowded boat.
How long is a pontoon cruise on Lake Murray?
Lake Murray Boat Tours with a Captain start at 2 hours for up to 6 people. We can build additional time, depending on what you what your experience to be. If you want more time for a bachelorette party, or special event, we can work with that. We can also add additional boats for more people and fun.
What is your cancellation policy for bad weather?
Lake Murray Boat Tours in Lexington, SC offers full reschedule or full refund if your Captain cancels for unsafe weather, high winds, or lightning on Lake Murray. We monitor radar and will contact as soon as possible before departure. If you cancel 48+ hours in advance, you get a full refund.
Are Lake Murray boat tours kid-friendly and pet-friendly?
Yes, Lake Murray boat tours in Lexington, SC are kid-friendly. We have life jackets for children and infants and a safe, stable pontoon. We are pet-friendly on a case-by-case basis for small, well-behaved dogs — message Captain Tyler after booking to confirm for your private charter on Lake Murray.
Can we bring food, drinks, and coolers on board?
Yes, you can bring food, drinks, and coolers on board Lake Murray Boat Tours. You can bring everything from a bag of chips to a full on spread. As far as beverages, from water to Jack Daniels it is all you! Please no glass bottles or red wine.
Do you offer private charters for birthdays, bachelorettes, and corporate events?
Lake Murray Boat Tours offers private charters for birthdays, bachelorette parties, bachelor parties, anniversaries, family reunions, and corporate team outings on Lake Murray. Our private pontoon for 2-6 guests is perfect for small group celebrations. We allow decorations, custom playlists, and catering — book as Special Event Boat Outing.
We also can book additional boats for more people and fun.
What is the difference between renting a pontoon on your own vs. renting with Captain
Renting a pontoon on your own on Lake Murray means you drive, navigate, dock, pay for fuel, and security deposit. Renting with Captain Tyler Ryan with Lake Murray Boat Tours in Lexington, SC means you get a private USCG-licensed captain who drives, navigates Lake Murray, handles docking and fuel, and knows the best sunset spots and coves — you just relax with your group.
Is Captain Tyler Ryan a licensed captain?
Yes, Captain Tyler Ryan with Lake Murray Boat Tours in Lexington, SC is a USCG-licensed captain with 20+ years of experience on Lake Murray. He is fully licensed, insured, and trained in safety, navigation, and first aid. Lake Murray Boat Tours is a fully insured and registered charter operating from Lexington, SC.
Are life jackets provided on private boat tours on Lake Murray?
Yes, USCG-approved life jackets are provided for every guest on all private boat tours with Lake Murray Boat Tours with Captain Tyler Ryan in Lexington, SC. We have adult, child, and infant sizes on board our pontoon and we give a safety briefing before departing on Lake Murray. You don't need to bring your own.
What happens if it rains on the day of our cruise?
Generally, we operate rain or shine. That having been said, we want to make sure your private boat charter on Lake Murray is awesome, so your Captain will work with you to make sure it is as enjoyable as possible.
In the event of lightening within 15 miles, we will either reschedule or hold fast on the dock until it passes.
We will never put our guests in an unsafe weather situation.
Where should we park for our boat tour in Lexington, SC?
When you arrive at Jakes Landing, you will park just past the main ramp, near the gas pumps on shore. From there, you will go to the blue shop and pay for parking. Let them know you are going out with Lake Murray Boat Tours and Captain Tyler, and they will often give you a sweet discount.
Do you have insurance for your boat tours?
Yes, Lake Murray Boat Tours with Captain Tyler Ryan in Lexington, SC is fully insured with commercial marine charter insurance for private boat tours on Lake Murray. Our pontoon, passengers, and captain are covered. We are a licensed and insured charter operator based in Lexington, SC.
What else should I bring on the boat?
In addition to your snacks and food, dress for the weather and the plan. If it is cooler, certainly bring a light jacket or other layer. If you are planning to swim, a towel is a good bet. Your Captain will help you make some decisions if you would like. Just CALL us.
What should I NOT bring on the boat?
Any illegal substances, cigars, cigarettes, aerosol sunscreen, high heels, or dress shoes.
Do you offer tours year-round on Lake Murray?
Yes, Lake Murray Boat Tours with Captain Tyler Ryan in Lexington, SC offers private boat tours year-round on Lake Murray, weather permitting. Sunset cruises are most popular March through October, but we offer beautiful fall foliage and mild winter cruises in South Carolina. Book online to see current availability from Lexington, SC.
Can I bring my dog on charters and tours?
Yes! Dogs are part of the crew.
Bring your pup on any charter or tour — sunset, Lit Tour, all of them. Our dogs will be on board too, so yours will fit right in.
Two little asks so everybody stays happy:
1. Neatly trimmed nails, please. The boat seats are not fans of long nails.
2. Bring a towel or blanket for them to sit on. They'll be cozier, your pup will be cozier, and the seats will thank you.
That's it. Good dog = good tour.
Are the Lake Murray Boat Tours kid friendly?
Yes! Boating is a family sport.
Kids are absolutely welcome on our tours and charters. Some of our favorite trips are the ones with the whole family on board.
One rule to know: Children under 13 must wear a life jacket. That's a US Coast Guard rule, and we follow it on every tour.
It's always better if you bring one for them that fits just right — you know your kid, you know what fits. But if you don't have one, don't worry — we have them. Just let us know their ages when you book so we have the right size ready for them.
What do I do now?
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