LAKE TRAVIS PARTY BOAT RENTALS | PARTY BOAT RENTALS IN LAKE TRAVIS
Lake Travis Party Boat Rentals: The Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about renting a party boat on Lake Travis. Compare boats, discover what’s included, explore Devil’s Cove, and find out why Tide Up Boat Rentals delivers unforgettable experiences.
Lake Travis Party Boat Rentals Overview
Lake Travis party boat rentals have become one of Austin’s most popular activities, drawing visitors from across Texas and beyond. Whether you’re celebrating a bachelorette party, bachelor bash, birthday, or just enjoying a weekend with friends, renting a party boat on Lake Travis delivers an unforgettable experience.
🚤 Why Lake Travis Party Boats Are So Popular
- Devil’s Cove: America’s #1 party cove where 200+ boats gather on weekends
- BYOB Culture: Bring your own drinks and save hundreds vs clubs
- Captained Experience: Professional captain handles everything—you just party
- All-Inclusive Amenities: Sound systems, lily pads, coolers, and more included
- Stunning Scenery: 63 miles of Texas Hill Country lake views
- Year-Round Weather: 300+ days of sunshine in Austin
Lake Travis stretches 63 miles through the Texas Hill Country, offering everything from secluded coves to the legendary Devil’s Cove party scene. With dozens of rental companies and boat types available, finding the right party boat can feel overwhelming—but that’s why we created this comprehensive guide.
What Makes a “Party Boat”?
A party boat is any boat designed or equipped for group celebrations. On Lake Travis, party boats typically include:
- Pontoons and tritoons (10-19 passengers)
- Double-decker pontoons with water slides (14-22 passengers)
- Large party barges (24-50+ passengers)
- Luxury yachts (10-24 passengers)
What sets them apart: premium sound systems, coolers, floating lily pads, shade canopies, and—most importantly—captains who know exactly where to go for the best experience.
Types of Lake Travis Party Boats
| Boat Type | Capacity | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Pontoon | 10-14 guests | Small groups, families, casual cruises | $150-200/hr |
| Tritoon | 13-19 guests | Medium groups, stability, tubing | $175-275/hr |
| Double-Decker w/ Slide | 14-22 guests | Bachelor/bachelorette, parties ⭐ Most Popular | $200-350/hr |
| Party Barge | 24-50 guests | Large groups, corporate, reunions | $600-1500/charter |
| Luxury Yacht | 10-24 guests | VIP celebrations, upscale events | $400-900/hr |
Standard Pontoon
Perfect for small groups and families. Single-level design with shade canopy, seating for 10-14, and all the essentials for a great day on the water.
Tritoon
Three pontoons for extra stability and speed. Great for groups who want to explore more of Lake Travis or add tubing to their experience.
Double-Decker
The party boat sweet spot! Two levels for lounging, built-in water slides, and room for 14-22 guests. Perfect for bachelorette parties and celebrations.
Party Barge
Maximum capacity for large groups. Many include grills, bathrooms, and massive deck space. Some hold up to 50 people!
🏆 Our Recommendation
For most party groups heading to Devil’s Cove, a double-decker pontoon with water slide is the ideal choice. You get two levels of deck space, an epic slide, plenty of shade, and room for 14-22 guests. Tide Up Boat Rentals specializes in these premium party boats.
Lake Travis Party Boat Pricing
Hourly Rates by Boat Type
| Boat Type | Weekday Rate | Weekend Rate | Holiday Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Pontoon | $150-175/hr | $175-200/hr | $200-250/hr |
| Tritoon | $175-225/hr | $200-275/hr | $250-325/hr |
| Double-Decker | $200-275/hr | $250-350/hr | $300-400/hr |
| Party Barge | $600-1,500 per 4-hour charter (varies by size) | ||
Additional Costs to Budget
| Cost Item | Typical Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Captain Gratuity | 20% of rental | Standard, often expected. Cash or Venmo to captain. |
| Marina Entry Fee | $5-20/person | Varies by marina. Often cash only. |
| Parking | $5-20/vehicle | Some marinas include parking. |
| Minimum Rental | 3-4 hours | Standard requirement for most boats. |
💰 Sample Cost: 14-Person Party
- 4-hour double-decker at $275/hour = $1,100
- Captain gratuity (20%) = $220
- Marina entry (14 × $5) = $70
- Total: $1,390 ÷ 14 = ~$99/person
That’s an epic day at Devil’s Cove for less than a VIP night downtown!
Ready to Book Your Lake Travis Party Boat?
Tide Up Boat Rentals offers premium captained party boats with all the amenities. Experience Devil’s Cove in style!
What’s Included in Lake Travis Party Boat Rentals
Licensed Captain
Professional driver handles everything
Fuel Included
No surprise fuel charges
Coolers + Ice
Large coolers pre-filled with ice
Sound System
Bluetooth speakers for your music
Lily Pad
Giant floating mat for lounging
Water Slide
On double-decker boats
Life Jackets
USCG-approved for all passengers
Shade Canopy
Protection from Texas sun
Photo Assistance
Captains help capture memories
What You Need to Bring
- Beverages (BYOB—cans only, no glass)
- Snacks and food
- Sunscreen SPF 30+
- Towels
- Swimsuit and cover-up
- Sunglasses with strap
- Waterproof phone case
- Cash for gratuity and marina entry
Devil’s Cove: The Ultimate Party Boat Destination
When people talk about Lake Travis party boat rentals, they’re usually heading to one place: Devil’s Cove.
😈 Devil’s Cove Quick Facts
- Location: North Shore of Lake Travis, near Jonestown
- Peak Crowds: 200+ boats on holiday weekends
- Ranking: Top 5 party coves in the United States
- Best Days: Saturday afternoons (12-6 PM)
- Vibe: Boats raft up together, music everywhere, floating festival
What Happens at Devil’s Cove
At Devil’s Cove, boats anchor and tie up together in rows, creating a massive floating community. People play music, swim, walk between boats meeting other partiers, and enjoy the Texas sun. Bachelor and bachelorette groups often find each other. It’s like a floating festival that happens every warm weekend.
Other Lake Travis Destinations
- Starnes Island: Popular alternative to Devil’s Cove, great for large barges
- Hippie Hollow: Texas’ only clothing-optional beach (adults only)
- The Oasis: Lakeside restaurant with epic sunset views
- Mansfield Dam: Scenic cruising, less crowded
Lake Travis Party Boats for Bachelorette Parties
Lake Travis has become Texas’ #1 destination for bachelorette party boats. Here’s why:
- Devil’s Cove scene: Meet other celebrating groups, amazing photo opportunities
- BYOB savings: Way more affordable than clubs and bars
- Private experience: Your own boat, your music, your vibe
- Instagram-worthy: Lake, hills, sunset—endless content
- Captain handles everything: Just show up and party
Best Boats for Bachelorette Parties
- Small Group (8-14): Standard pontoon or tritoon
- Medium Group (12-20): Double-decker with slide ⭐ Most Popular
- Large Group (20-40): Party barge with grill and bathroom
💖 Bachelorette Party Essentials
- Matching swimsuits or coverups
- Bride sash, veil, or tiara
- Custom koozies with hashtag
- Champagne in plastic bottles
- Waterproof phone cases
- Decorations (NO glitter!)
What to Bring to Your Lake Travis Party Boat
✅ BYOB Rules — What You CAN Bring
- Beer, hard seltzers, canned cocktails
- Wine in cans or plastic bottles
- Champagne bottles (often only glass exception)
- Mixers in plastic bottles
- Plenty of bottled water!
🚫 What NOT to Bring
- Glass bottles (except champagne on some boats)
- Red wine (permanently stains upholstery)
- Hard liquor (prohibited on many boats)
- Glitter or confetti (impossible to clean)
- Styrofoam containers
Essential Packing List
- Swimsuit(s) and cover-up
- Towels (2 per person)
- Sunscreen SPF 30+ (reapply every 1-2 hours!)
- Sunglasses with strap
- Hat or visor
- Waterproof phone case
- Cash for gratuity (20%) and marina entry ($5-20)
- Snacks and lunch
- Beverages in CANS
How to Book a Lake Travis Party Boat
Step 1: Determine Your Group Size
Count confirmed guests. Choose a boat with capacity slightly above your headcount for comfort.
Step 2: Choose Your Boat Type
Match boat to your needs: pontoons for casual, double-deckers for parties, barges for large groups.
Step 3: Pick Your Date and Time
Book 2-4 weeks ahead for weekends, 4-8 weeks for holidays. Saturday afternoons are prime time.
Step 4: Complete Your Reservation
Book online at Tide Up Boat Rentals. Pay deposit, confirm guest count, complete waivers.
Step 5: Prepare Your Supplies
Pack cooler with canned beverages, sunscreen, towels, and cash for gratuity/entry.
⏰ Booking Timeline
- 4-8 weeks ahead: Holiday weekends, peak season Saturdays
- 2-4 weeks ahead: Regular weekends May-September
- 1-2 weeks ahead: Weekdays during peak season
- A few days: Off-season or weekday mornings
Lake Travis Party Boat Pro Tips
Book the Right Time
Saturday 12-4 PM = peak Devil’s Cove energy. Weekday mornings = peaceful cruising. Sunset cruises = romantic vibes.
Plan Transportation
You’ll be drinking—arrange Uber/Lyft or party bus to/from the marina. Don’t drink and drive.
Hydrate Like Crazy
Texas sun + alcohol = dehydration fast. Bring more water than you think. 1-2 bottles per person per hour.
Protect Your Phone
Waterproof cases are essential. Lake water destroys phones instantly. Bring a backup charger too.
🏆 Ultimate Pro Tip
Book a private captained party boat that can anchor at Devil’s Cove. You get exclusivity AND the party atmosphere. Your captain knows exactly where to position for the best experience. Tide Up Boat Rentals captains are experts at this.
Book Your Lake Travis Party Boat Today
Tide Up Boat Rentals offers premium captained party boats for unforgettable Lake Travis experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Lake Travis Adventure Awaits
From Devil’s Cove to sunset cruises, Tide Up Boat Rentals delivers unforgettable Lake Travis party boat experiences.