Boating in the Afternoon Sun
Row Boat Rentals in Central Park: A Perfect Day
Boat rentals at the Central Park Boathouse are open through November 2nd, 2026. Boats can be rented on a first-come, first-served basis only. Reservations are not accepted.
2026 Row Boat Rental Schedule & Details
General Information
- Boat rental hours: 10:00 AM to dusk (weather permitting)
- Last boat leaves the dock 1 hour before dusk.
- First come, first served - No Reservations
- Cost: Mon-Thurs $25/hr, Fri-Sun $30/hr. Pay by credit card or Apple Pay only.
- Each boat holds up to 4 people
- Life jackets are provided
- Children must be at least 3 feet tall
- Children age 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult
- Pets are not permitted
- There is a reversible ATM on site
Location: MAP | Central Park Boathouse at E. 72nd Street and East Drive
Don't forget a picnic lunch! Our ready-made grab n' go picnic bags are perfect for a leisurely boat ride. Or book a luxury picnic experience to enjoy by the Lake after the ride! Great for birthdays, proposals, and special occasions.
gondola ride at central park
Gondola Rides
Venetian gondola rides ran on the Lake for years, with a gondolier steering couples past Bow Bridge at sunset, often singing along the way. The Central Park Boathouse confirmed in 2026 that gondola rides are no longer part of its operation.
Rowboats are the only boat rental on the Lake now.
About the Boathouse
The Central Park Boathouse (formerly Loeb) was renovated in 2023 by its new operator, Legends Hospitality.
Visit our Central Park Boathouse page for more details.