Make memories on the best boat rides near me at Lake of the Ozarks
Looking for boat rides near me? Playin Hooky offers quick water taxi runs, lively bar-hop cruises, and family charters across Lake of the Ozarks. Playin Hooky Water Taxi & Charters LLC operates three USCG-inspected catamarans (36 / 43 / 49 passengers) plus a 55' Offshore Speedboat for round-trip runs to Backwater Jack's — ideal for bar hops, family days, and private charters.
Why book with us?
- Safety first: USCG-inspected vessels and licensed captains on every trip.
- Local expertise: We know the fastest routes, best swim coves, and top bars.
- Flexible options: Water taxi, day/night Bar Hop Fun Cruises, Coconut Shuttle, private charters, and round-trip speedboat rides.
- Easy booking: Phone, email, or online reservations — same-day pickups often available.
Parties & Groups
Best boat rides near me for groups, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and bar-hop cruises
- Large capacity catamarans with open decks and cooler space.
- Route planning to hit the hottest bars — no parking, no lines.
- Onboard crew manages docking, safety briefings, and logistics.
Micro-story: A group of 40 left Bagnell at sunset for a three-stop bar hop — everyone skipped the parking hassle and still talked about it months later.
Families & Kids
Family-friendly boat rides near me — calm trips, swim stops, and kid safety
- Stable catamarans with shaded seating and life jackets for all ages.
- Short runs or half-day charters that match nap schedules.
- Captains suggest calm coves perfect for kids and easy returns.
Micro-story: Parents loved that a 90-minute cruise included a calm swim cove and an easy dock return before nap time.
Tourists & Vacationers
Scenic boat rides near me for sightseeing, sunsets, and quiet escapes
- Scenic cruises along the main channel for photos and local stories.
- Private charters for proposals, anniversaries, or romantic sunsets.
- Add-ons: picnic baskets, champagne, or guided sightseeing stops.
Micro-story: A couple booked a sunset charter and later said it was the most memorable part of their Lake of the Ozarks vacation.
What we offer
- Water taxi runs and on-demand pickups for short hops.
- Day & night Bar Hop Fun Cruises — routes tailored for groups.
- Private charters for families, corporate groups, and events.
- Speedboat round trips to Backwater Jack’s pool bar (55' Offshore).
Boat Rides Near Me in Lake of the Ozarks | Book Today
Stop for an iconic photo at the Lake of the Ozarks Welcome Sign — we’re just a short cruise or quick drive from the sign and can meet you at nearby docks. Pickups span the main channel (Bagnell Dam through the Gravois Arm) and we’ll confirm the exact dock marker on booking.
Lake of the Ozarks Cruises
West Side
Fun Cruise
Lake Ozark
Fun Cruise
Coconut Shuttle
From Lazy Gators
Coconut Shuttle
From Horny Toad
Speedboat Ride
to Famous Pool Bar at Backwater Jacks
5PM Lake Hop to Tap & Grill Lakeside Brew Haus
7PM Howl at the Moon Fun Cruise
8PM Howl at the Moon Fun Cruise
Spring Harbor Hop Fun Cruise
4th of July Fireworks Cruise from Millstone Thunder
4th of July Fireworks Cruise from Horny Toad
Fall Harbor Hop Fun Cruise
Here’s What Our Customers Are Saying
Our Recent Blogs
Large Groups Boat Charters at Lake of the Ozarks
Planning a weekend with friends, a bachelor party, or a corporate outing around Lake Ozark or Osage Beach? Booking Large Groups Boat Charters at Lake of the Ozarks with Playin Hooky Water Taxi & Charters LLC is one of the easiest and most exciting ways to experience the lake’s most popular waterfront hotspots. Whether you […]
Cruising in Style: A Bachelorette Bash Aboard Playin Hooky Water Taxi at the Lake of the Ozarks
Planning a memorable bachelorette party involves finding the perfect blend of excitement, relaxation, and unforgettable moments. If you’re looking for a unique and stylish way to celebrate, look no further than Playin Hooky Water Taxi at the Lake of the Ozarks. With its scenic beauty and luxurious amenities, Playin Hooky Water Taxi offers an exceptional […]
New Lake of the Ozarks Boat Tour at Playin Hooky
Introducing Playin Hooky’s Brand-New Lake of the Ozarks Boat Tour Looking for a new and entertaining activity this summer? Playin Hooky is pleased to bring you the ultimate sightseeing experience on one of America’s best lakes. We’ve already got a stellar reputation as the first and number one Water Taxi in Lake of the Ozarks. […]
Playin Hooky Water Taxi & Charters LLC
Located at Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
Operating seven days a week
May 1st - October 1st • 10:00 am - 1:30 am
Email: PlayinHookyAtTheLake@yahoo.com
573-434-2627
