Question 1

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

A $25.00 processing fee will be applied for each CANCELLATION on reservation.

If reservation is cancelled 72 hours prior to reservation date - deposit will be returned minus a $25 processing fee.

If reservation is cancelled within 72 hours of reservation - balance due will be applied and deposit is non-refundable.

A 'NO-SHOW' is a cancellation or forfeiture of your reservation. In the event of a no show - the balance due will be applied and deposit is non-refundable.

Question 2

What your weather policy?

Accepted Answer

In the event of inclement weather, DWS reserves the right to reschedule.  Safety is important to us, and we will not allow you on the lake if we do not feel it is safe.  If you choose not to reschedule, we will issue a full refund.
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If you get less than half of your rental time due to the weather, we will compensate you for time lost on the lake. TIME DOES NOT DIRECTLY CORRELATE TO THE PRICE.

Conditions evaluated by management include high winds, thunderstorms, lightning, etc. 
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Multi-day rentals will not receive a refund or an additional day due to inclement weather conditions.  This is already reflected in the discounted price and additional hours of boating time.

Question 3

What are your age requirements?

Accepted Answer

You must be at least 21 to rent and drive our Tritoons and our Jet Skis.

Question 4

Do we need to pay for fuel?

Accepted Answer

Fuel isn't included, but you will start with a full tank, and we'll refuel it when you're done. The cost will be charged to the credit card on file. If you don't have a major credit card, we'll place a hold on a bank card before you head out.

Question 5

How much will I be charged for fuel?

Accepted Answer

There is no way to know for sure how much fuel you will use. Fuel varies based on the number of people (weight), speed traveled and hours the engine is running.  If you are pulling a towable the fuel will be higher than normal.  
Boats have 55 gallon tanks.
Jet Skis have 14 gallon tanks.

Question 6

Where can we go?

Accepted Answer

There are many waterways to explore! Torch Lake is part of the Elk River Watershed and we allow our rentals to navigate through; Torch Lake ~ Clam River ~ Clam Lake ~ Grass River ~ Lake Bellaire.

Question 7

Are there any restricted areas?

Accepted Answer

We prohibit the use of our equipment in high incident areas to protect our customers from damage charges, therefore:
We do not allow our equipment to enter Torch River.
We do not allow our equipment to dock in Alden. 
Do not dock at Butch’s – we will accompany you if needed.
Dockside Restaurant – do not dock on pier or slips, please dock with us only.
Any dock not pre-approved.  *If you hope to dock at a home on the lake, we require advance notice to allow for the inspection and approval of the location.

We do not allow our watercrafts to be trailered to any other lakes.

Question 8

Can we dock the rental at our place?

Accepted Answer

If you want to dock at your place, just give us a heads-up with the address so we can approve it. Call or email us as soon as you can. Without advance notice, docking might not be possible.

Question 9

Can I bring my dog?

Accepted Answer

Yes.  We charge a $50 pet fee/per dog.  Limit of two dogs.

Additional cleaning fees may be applied. Lessee is responsible for any damage caused by pet.

Question 10

Can we bring our own skis, wakeboard or kneeboard?

Accepted Answer

No.  Unfortunately, at this time our insurance does not allow for the practice of any watersports except tubing.

Question 11

Do you have smaller boats for just a few people?

Accepted Answer

We only offer 25' or 27' Tritoons because safety and stability are our top priorities on Torch Lake. Smaller boats can be unstable and more dangerous in rough waters. Enjoy the ride with our spacious and safe Tritoons!

Question 12

What fun activities can we do on Torch Lake?

Accepted Answer

Torch Lake is a residential lake, but you can tour around the lake by boat, swim, rent a towable and go tubing behind the boat. Don't miss anchoring at the sandbar for music, dancing, water games, and meeting new friends. Plus, the Dockside Restaurant is the perfect spot to stop for a break and grab a bite to eat.

Question 13

Is insurance included with the rental?

Accepted Answer

We don't offer insurance, but you can check your homeowner's insurance policy for coverage.

Question 14

Do you provide Captains?

Accepted Answer

No, we do not provide captains.  We DO offer hands on training during our demonstration drive on the lake.

Question 15

What is the temperature of Torch Lake?

Accepted Answer

Torch Lake is a spring fed lake and is over 300' deep in spots.  It takes a while for the lake to warm up in the summer.  The average summer temperature runs around 68-75 at the shore (colder in the middle).

Question 16

Where do Dockside Water Sports rentals start on Torch Lake?

Accepted Answer

Dockside Water Sports is located directly on Torch Lake’s open shoreline, so guests can step onto their tritoon or jet ski and head straight out on the lake without launch lines or delays.

Question 17

What makes Dockside Water Sports different from other Torch Lake rentals?

Accepted Answer

Dockside Water Sports is the only boat and jet ski rental company located directly on Torch Lake’s open shoreline. Guests also have a home base on the lake with indoor restrooms, beach access, and a full-service experience with personal support from the team.

Question 18

Are Dockside Water Sports tritoons good for families and groups?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Dockside’s premium tritoons are designed with families and groups in mind, with spacious layouts, comfortable seating, and room for coolers and gear.

Question 19

What kind of motors do Dockside Water Sports tritoons have?

Accepted Answer

Dockside Water Sports tritoons are equipped with 250–300hp motors, giving guests a smooth, safe, and comfortable ride on Torch Lake.

Question 20

Can we come back during the day for restroom or beach breaks?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Dockside Water Sports serves as your home base on the lake, so you can return easily throughout the day for indoor restrooms, beach breaks, snacks, or lunch before heading back out on the water.

Question 21

Does Dockside Water Sports provide instruction and docking help?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Dockside provides hands-on instruction before guests leave the dock, on-water support if needed, and docking assistance when guests return.

Frequently Asked Questions