AUSTIN & LAKE TRAVIS BOAT RENTAL GUIDE | TIDE UP BOAT RENTALS
📋 Complete Guide
Austin Boat Rental Guide
Everything you need to know about renting a boat in Austin – lakes, boats, pricing, and tips for first-time renters.
New to boat rentals in Austin? This guide covers everything – which lake to choose, boat types, what’s included, pricing, and tips to make your first rental smooth and stress-free!
Austin is blessed with two beautiful lakes perfect for boating: Lake Travis and Lake Austin. Whether you’re planning a party, a peaceful day on the water, or anything in between, there’s a perfect boat rental for you.
Lake Travis vs. Lake Austin
The first decision is which lake. Here’s the quick breakdown:
Lake Travis
- ⏱️ 30 minutes from downtown
- 📏 64 miles long, huge!
- 💎 Crystal-clear water
- 🎉 Famous party coves
- 🏊 Best swimming
- ⛰️ Dramatic cliff scenery
- ✅ Best for: Parties, swimming, all-day adventures
Lake Austin
- ⏱️ 15 minutes from downtown
- 📏 21 miles long
- 🌊 Calmer waters
- 🏡 Beautiful shoreline homes
- 🌅 Great for sunset cruises
- 🤫 More intimate vibe
- ✅ Best for: Dates, scenic cruises, downtown access
Types of Boats Available
🚤 Pontoon Boats
$$
The classic choice. Stable, spacious, comfortable seating. Great for families and groups who want to relax, swim, and float.
🎉 Party Boats / Tritoons
$$$
Bigger decks, more stability, premium sound systems. Perfect for celebrations and groups who want to party.
🎢 Double-Decker Boats
$$$$
The ultimate party vessels. Two levels, water slides, jumping platforms. Maximum fun factor for big celebrations.
⛵ Luxury / Yacht-Style
Elegant vessels for upscale occasions. Perfect for corporate events, proposals, or special celebrations.
Boat Rental Pricing
💰 What to Expect
| Boat Type | Half-Day (4 hrs) | Full-Day (8 hrs) |
|---|---|---|
| Pontoon (8-14 guests) | $500-900 | $800-1,400 |
| Party Boat (15-20 guests) | $800-1,200 | $1,200-2,000 |
| Double-Decker (18-25+ guests) | $1,200-1,800 | $1,800-2,800 |
| Sunset Cruise (2-3 hrs) | $400-900 | |
*Prices include captain and fuel at most companies. Split among your group for per-person cost.
💡 Budget Tip
A $1,000 boat split among 12 people is just $83 per person for 4+ hours of fun – way better value than bar hopping or expensive activities. Book weekdays for lower prices!
What’s Included in a Rental
✅ Typically Included
- ✓ Licensed captain
- ✓ Fuel
- ✓ Life jackets
- ✓ Bluetooth speakers
- ✓ Shade cover (bimini)
- ✓ Swim ladder
- ✓ Basic safety equipment
🎒 You Bring
- ✓ Cooler with ice
- ✓ Drinks (cans only)
- ✓ Snacks/food
- ✓ Towels
- ✓ Sunscreen
- ✓ Swimsuits
- ✓ Sunglasses
First-Time Renter Tips
Before You Book
- Know your headcount – Boat capacity is strict for safety reasons
- Book ahead – Weekends book up 2-4 weeks out in summer
- Pick the right lake – Lake Travis for parties/swimming, Lake Austin for scenic/intimate
- Check weather – Storms mean cancellations, but most companies reschedule
Day of Your Rental
- Arrive 15 minutes early – Load coolers, get briefing, maximize water time
- Bring 2x the ice – Texas heat melts ice fast!
- Apply sunscreen BEFORE – You’ll forget once the fun starts
- Assign a cooler manager – Someone to handle drinks/snacks while captain drives
- Tip your captain – 15-20% is standard for good service
Boat Rental FAQs
No! Captained rentals include a licensed captain who handles all the driving. You just show up and enjoy. Bareboat rentals (you drive) may require a boating safety certificate, but most party rentals include a captain.
Yes! Most boat rentals are BYOB (bring your own beverages). The captain stays sober to operate the boat while passengers enjoy drinks. Just use cans – no glass allowed on boats.
Most companies offer rescheduling for weather. Check the cancellation policy when booking. Light rain usually isn’t an issue, but lightning and storms mean safety cancellations.
For weekends in peak season (May-September), book 2-4 weeks ahead. Weekdays and off-season have more flexibility – sometimes same-week booking is possible.
Ready to Book Your Austin Boat Rental?
Browse available boats and reserve your date!
Renting a boat in Austin is easier than you think. With a captain handling the driving, all you need to do is show up with your crew and have fun. Book with Tide Up and experience Austin’s lakes like a local!