The Pier – The Edgewater
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By Boat, By Land

Public Access to Lake Mendota

The Edgewater Pier

Join us in the heart of downtown Madison at The Edgewater Pier, a waterfront destination offering one of the only public access points to beautiful Lake Mendota. At Madison’s Place, you’ll find 40 public boat slips, pop-up pier parties, live music, customized boating excursions, boat rentals, and complimentary boat ride nights.

Docking at The Pier is complimentary throughout the day. Overnight docking is available for a $135 per night docking fee. For additional information about The Pier including overnight docking, contact: 608.535.8200.

The piers will be installed mid-May 2024.

The Edgewater Voyages

Rent a pontoon boat and explore beautiful Lake Mendota. Book your captained excursion today!

Discover the natural beauty and charm of Lake Mendota like never before with The Edgewater Voyages. In collaboration with Madison Boats, The Edgewater now offers captained pontoon boat excursions that allow you to explore the breathtaking scenery of one of Wisconsin’s most stunning lakes. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely day on the water or a unique way to celebrate a special occasion, The Edgewater Voyages promises a memorable and enjoyable experience for all. Learn more and book online at: madisonboats.com/edgewater

Two-Hour Captained Excursion:​

Weekday, Monday-Thursday | $260 
Weekend, Friday-Sunday |  $300 

Five-hour Captained Excursion:​

Book two time slots & get a bonus hour!
Weekday, Monday-Thursday | $520 
Weekend, Friday-Sunday) | $600


FAQs About Boat Tours

Where do we meet the captain?

A Madison Boats Captain will meet you at the check-in umbrella on The Edgewater Pier to review our rules and go over the float plan for the day.

What time do we arrive?

Please arrive at least 15 min prior to your rental so check-in does not cut into your time on the water.

Can we drive the boat?

All Edgewater boat rentals are captained by Madison Boats crew members. If you have a boater’s license or were born before 1989 you can rent and drive a pontoon at Marshall Boats. There are also fishing boats available at Marshall and Brittingham Boats.

Can we have food or alcohol?

Food and alcohol are permitted on the boats. You can order directly from The Edgewater here. Please do not bring any food or drink that can easily stain the boat. Red wine, fruit punch, etc.

What is your Food and Beverage Cancelation Policy?

Should you need to cancel your reservation or change the date of your adventure, here is our policy on refunds and re-booking:

  • More than 1 week from rental re-order OR receive a 100% refund.
  • Within one week to 48 hours before booking re-book OR receive a 80% refund.
  • Less than 48 hours, no refunds

To cancel F&B orders, please email:  pontoonorders@theedgewater.com (voicemail cancellations will not be accepted).

Should Madison Boats need to cancel a boat rental within 48 hours, you will be offered an indoor location at The Edgewater to enjoy your order, or we can package the order to go for you to take home.

Is there shade on the boat?

There is a bimini cover that provides shade to the back half of the boat.

Is there a bathroom on the boat?

There is no bathroom on the boat so we recommend taking care of bathroom needs prior to departure.

What is your cancellation policy?

Madison Boats reserves the right to cancel reservations due to inclement weather, equipment issues, or any other unforeseen issues. In this situation, you will have the option to re-book or a 100% refund.

Should you need to cancel your reservation or change the date of your adventure, here is our policy on refunds and re-booking:

  • More than 1 week from rental re-book at no cost -OR- receive a 100% refund.
  • Within one week to 48 hours before booking re-book at no cost -OR- receive an 80% refund.
  • Less than 48 hours no refunds and a $50 rebooking fee. To cancel please email marshallsupport@madisonboats.com or marshall@madisonboats.com (voicemail cancellations will not be accepted).

What if the weather is bad?

Madison Boats reserves the right to cancel reservations due to inclement weather, equipment issues, or any other unforeseen issue. In this situation, you will have the option to re-book or a 100% refund.

The boat will still go out if it is raining but in the case that there is thunder or lightning, the boat will return to shore/remain at shore until 30 min has passed since the last lightning strike/thunder clap. When winds are over 20 mph the boat will remain docked.

What do I need to rent a boat?

Renters need to be at least 25 years old with matching credit/debit card and ID. A waiver will need to be signed upon arrival. Payment is made at time of booking.

How many people are allowed on the boat?

Up to 10 people are allowed on the boat, plus your Madison Boats captain. There is ample seating on luxury cushioned benches both in the front and the back of the boat.

Are life jackets required and/or provided?

Life jackets are required for those under 13 and recommended for everyone else. Your captain reserves the right to require all wear life jackets depending on weather conditions. Life jackets are provided and available on the boat.

What is Madison Boats?

Madison Boats owns and operates Wingra Boats, Brittingham Boats, Marshall Boats, and the boats at The Edgewater.

Is fishing allowed?

Yes! Email us ahead of time and we can set you up with the proper equipment.

Are pets allowed?

Pets are allowed on the boats with an additional cleaning fee. We recommend life jackets for your furry friend but we do not provide pet lifejackets.

Can I reserve a boat for the same day?

Same day bookings are not available at this time. Bookings must be reserved before 7pm the day before the desired rental slot. Same day bookings without a captain may be available at Marshall Boats via phone call.

Is there parking available?

We offer covered and secure parking at The Edgewater in our parking garage. Parking is $3 per hour with a $24 daily maximum. Street parking is also available. All is on a first come, first serve basis.

Lake Mendota and Lake Monona with The Edgewater and The Wisconsin State Capitol Building in the center