Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Explore Acadia National Park with Motorboat Rentals in Southwest Harbor, ME
Mansell Boat Rental has been serving boating enthusiasts since 1973, offering premium motorboat rentals in the scenic waters of Acadia National Park. Founded by Chuck Watson, a lifelong resident of Mount Desert Island with over four decades of maritime experience, our company combines deep local knowledge with professional expertise. Located at the southern entrance to Somes Sound adjacent to Hinckley Yacht Yard, we provide unparalleled access to Southwest Harbor, Somes Sound, and the Cranberry Islands. Our fleet includes meticulously maintained vessels ranging from 17' to 21' models, featuring Yamaha-powered Boston Whalers and Horizon boats equipped with modern amenities.We maintain strict safety protocols requiring 48-hour reservations, valid captain licenses, and onboard capacity limits. With our waterfront location at 135 Shore Road and corporate office in Southwest Harbor, we offer seamless integration with the Moorings Inn accommodations for extended stays. Our commitment to excellence stems from Chuck Watson's extensive background as both a sailing instructor and former high school educator, ensuring every rental experience combines safety, education, and unforgettable exploration of Maine's coastal beauty.
Services
Motorboat Rentals
Vacation Rentals
Boat Storage
Waterfront Access
Sailing Instruction
Details
- Year established: 1973
Highlights and features
- Over 50 years of combined maritime experience from our founding family
- Yamaha-powered fleet with multiple boat size and engine configuration options
- Strategic location adjacent to Hinckley Yacht Yard for easy access
- Established safety protocols with mandatory captain certification requirements
- Direct access to Acadia National Park's most scenic waterways
Services
Motorboat Rentals
Our motorboat rentals provide exclusive access to Acadia National Park's pristine waters. Choose from 17' to 21' Yamaha-powered vessels including Boston Whalers and Horizon models. Each rental includes safety equipment and operates within designated areas from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily.
Vacation Rentals
Combine boating adventures with comfortable accommodations at our Moorings Inn properties. Located on the same waterfront premises as our boat rental facility, these cottages offer ocean views and convenient access to our rental services for seamless vacation experiences.
Boat Storage
Secure boat storage solutions available at our prime location on Somes Sound. Ideal for seasonal owners seeking protected mooring near Acadia National Park's most desirable cruising areas. Direct access to our rental operations for maintenance coordination.
Waterfront Access
Explore Mount Desert Island's scenic coastlines through our designated cruising areas. Access Bear Island Lighthouse, Somes Sound fjard, and Cranberry Islands from our convenient Manset pier location with expert navigation guidance included.
Sailing Instruction
Learn essential sailing skills from experienced instructors with decades of local expertise. Customized training programs available for both novice and experienced sailors seeking to master coastal navigation in Maine's unique maritime environment.
People
Chuck Watson
Founder
Born and raised on Mount Desert Island, Chuck Watson has operated Mansell Boat Rental since 1973. With over 40 years of maritime experience, he combines teaching expertise and local knowledge to provide exceptional boating experiences in Acadia National Park's waters.
Questions
What boat sizes are available for rent?
We offer 17' Mako, 19' Boston Whaler Outrage, 21' Boston Whaler Revenge and Outrage models, and a 21' Horizon boat.
Do you require captain certifications?
Yes, all renters must present a valid captain's license or proof of boat ownership with demonstrated experience.
What areas can I explore?
Rentals are limited to Acadia National Park waters including Southwest Harbor, Somes Sound, and Cranberry Islands.
What are your operating hours?
Boat rentals operate daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM with 48-hour advance reservations required.
Is there accommodation nearby?
Yes, Moorings Inn Waterfront offers rooms and cottages on the same premises as our rental facility.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, personal checks, Visa, and MasterCard for boat rental payments.
Reviews (5)
Danny Roess
Sep 14, 2021
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We had a great outing with Capt. Robert. I highly recommend taking the Date with captain option! Robert is very familiar with the area, and has great stories about local history. Truly a memorable day on the water. Thanks for the memories!!
Julio Aguirre-Ghiso
Aug 30, 2021
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Tried to rent a boat for me and my family and this dude Chuck was very dismissive, demeaning and rather rude in his tone. He tried more to impress me with his captain Ahab experience than offer options and some guidance if any for any service. Even if you rent with captain I would stay away. Imagine having to spend any time with this mr. know-all.
Mandi Harris
Aug 13, 2019
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We had such a lovely time renting a small boat with Chuck. He was super nice, made sure we had all we needed, and recommended some great routes and things to see. We will definitely be back to rent another boat and probably to stay in his hotel as well! I will say he can be hard to lock down ahead of time- when we called he just said to come by when we got in town, which made us a bit nervous but, we showed up a day before we wanted to rent and were able to get exactly what we wanted. Boat was older but in great condition and had a very new engine that worked perfectly.
Does he require that you
Does he require that you
Karolanne Weingrad
Jul 15, 2019
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Hands down do not go here! I have 8 years of boating experience, mostly lake, but some ocean. I told Chuck the owner this, he then proceeds to ask my fianc if he has any boating experience of which he answers no and Chuck decides he wont rent to a woman if the man doesnt know how to drive lol. We took the same experience to Manset Yacht not 500 feet down the road and they rented us a boat. Dont even waste your time here, walk the 500 feet, and save yourself the headache!
Robert Gambrel
Dec 28, 2018
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We did a sailing lesson with Captain Robert earlier this summer, and it was a blast. He taught us the basics and then handed over the controls, giving us a history lesson on the area along the way. The boat was clean and well kept, not the newest but who cares - we spent all our time on deck taking in the views and chatting with the captain. We'd definitely go again.
