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TIDE UP BOAT RENTALS ON GROUPON TO CRUISE AUSTIN’S BEAUTIFUL LAKES

a group of people posing in front of a body of water

 

 





🌅 AUSTIN’S PREMIER BOAT CRUISE EXPERIENCE

Austin Boat Cruises

Discover the magic of Lake Austin and Lake Travis with Tide Up Boat Rentals. From romantic sunset cruises past the Pennybacker Bridge to epic party boat adventures at Devil’s Cove, we offer unforgettable BYOB boat cruise experiences for every occasion.

Book Your Cruise Today
Explore Lake Austin

Types of Austin Boat Cruises

🌅

Sunset Cruises

Watch Austin transform at golden hour

  • Stunning Pennybacker Bridge views
  • Little Venice mansion tour
  • Mount Bonnell scenery
  • BYOB welcome
  • Professional captain
  • 1.5-2 hour experience

Starting from

$800
🎉

Party Boat Cruises

Epic celebrations on the water

  • Devil’s Cove adventures
  • 12-20 passenger capacity
  • Bluetooth sound system
  • Lily pad for swimming
  • Bachelor/bachelorette ready
  • 3-4 hour minimum

Starting from

$395
🏞️

Scenic Lake Tours

Explore Austin’s beautiful waterways

  • Celebrity home tours
  • Hidden coves & inlets
  • Texas Hill Country views
  • Wildlife spotting
  • Family-friendly options
  • Customizable routes

Starting from

$395

Private Charters

Your exclusive lake experience

  • Fully customizable itinerary
  • Corporate events welcome
  • Anniversary & proposals
  • Photography packages
  • Catering coordination
  • Flexible scheduling

Starting from

$595

 

Looking for the perfect Austin boat cruise experience? Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic sunset tour, planning an epic party boat cruise in Austin, or searching for the ideal Lake Austin boat cruise rental for your group, Tide Up Boat Rentals delivers unforgettable experiences on Austin’s most beautiful waterways.

Austin’s Highland Lakes region offers some of the most spectacular cruising destinations in Texas. From the iconic Pennybacker Bridge and hidden mansions of Little Venice on Lake Austin to the legendary party scene at Devil’s Cove on Lake Travis, our captained boat cruises showcase the very best of Austin’s outdoor lifestyle.

What You’ll See on Austin Boat Cruises

Our experienced captains know every scenic spot, hidden cove, and Instagram-worthy view on both lakes. Here are the highlights you’ll experience on our Austin boat cruises:

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Pennybacker Bridge

Austin’s most iconic landmark. Cruise beneath this stunning rust-colored arch and capture incredible photos of the 360 Bridge from the water.

🏛️

Little Venice

A unique Venetian-style canal featuring multi-million dollar mansions, Mediterranean architecture, and Austin’s most exclusive waterfront homes.

⛰️

Mount Bonnell Views

See Austin’s famous hiking destination from the water. The cliffs and surrounding Hill Country scenery are spectacular from lake level.

🏠

Celebrity Homes

Spot famous residents’ lakefront estates, including Matthew McConaughey’s compound. Our captains know who lives where!

🌅

Sunset Panoramas

Watch the Texas sky transform into brilliant oranges, pinks, and purples. The sunset views from the water are unmatched anywhere in Austin.

🏌️

Austin Country Club

Cruise past one of Texas’s most prestigious golf clubs, featuring immaculate fairways and historic clubhouse along the shoreline.

Lake Austin vs. Lake Travis Cruises

Choosing between Lake Austin and Lake Travis for your boat cruise in Austin? Here’s how they compare:

Feature Lake Austin Cruises Lake Travis Cruises
Best For Sunset cruises, romantic outings, scenic tours Party cruises, Devil’s Cove, all-day adventures
Distance from Downtown 10-20 minutes 30-45 minutes
Famous Sights Pennybacker Bridge, Little Venice, Mount Bonnell Devil’s Cove, Mansfield Dam, The Oasis
Atmosphere Scenic, intimate, relaxed Adventurous, high-energy, party-friendly
Water Clarity Clear to slightly green Crystal clear (spring-fed)
Crowd Level Generally calmer Busy weekends at Devil’s Cove
Swimming Good, warmer water Excellent, deep and clear

Tide Up Boat Rentals offers cruises on both lakes, so you can choose the perfect setting for your adventure—or book both for the ultimate Austin experience!

Friday Night Music Cruise – Our Most Popular Experience

Join us every Friday from 6pm-10pm for the most epic bar crawl on Lake Travis! Our Friday Night Music Cruise takes you on a captained pontoon boat journey to Beachside Billy’s, where you’ll enjoy:

Friday Night Music Cruise Features:

  • Stunning sunset views from the water
  • Arrival at Beachside Billy’s by boat
  • Live music on the waterfront
  • Delicious food and drink specials
  • BYOB on the boat ride
  • Professional captain handles everything
  • Perfect start to your Austin weekend
  • Photo opportunities galore

Starting at $800, the Friday Night Music Cruise is the ultimate way to experience Austin’s lake culture. It’s perfect for date nights, girls’ nights, bachelor/bachelorette pre-parties, or simply kicking off the weekend in style.

What’s Included in Your Austin Boat Cruise

When you book an Austin boat cruise with Tide Up Boat Rentals, we include everything you need for an incredible experience:

Every Cruise Includes:

  • Professional licensed captain
  • All fuel for your trip
  • Premium Bluetooth sound system
  • Large coolers with ice
  • Comfortable cushioned seating
  • Coast Guard safety equipment
  • Life jackets for all passengers
  • Bimini shade cover
  • Lily pad (party cruises)
  • BYOB welcome (no glass)

What to Bring on Your Boat Cruise

We provide the essentials—here’s what you should bring for the perfect cruise experience:

Beverages in cans or plastic bottles (no glass), sunscreen and sunglasses, light jacket for evening cruises, camera or phone for photos, cash for captain gratuity (15-20%), and any snacks you’d like. For sunset cruises, we provide a cooler, ice, and bottled water. Just bring your drinks of choice and be ready to relax!

Perfect Occasions for Austin Boat Cruises

Our Lake Austin boat cruise rentals and Lake Travis experiences are perfect for virtually any occasion:

Romantic Experiences

Sunset cruises on Lake Austin are Austin’s most romantic date night. Watch the sky transform as you cruise past Little Venice and under the Pennybacker Bridge. Perfect for anniversaries, proposals, or simply reconnecting with your partner on the water.

Celebrations & Parties

Bachelor and bachelorette parties, milestone birthdays, graduation celebrations—our party boat cruises in Austin turn any celebration into an unforgettable experience. Devil’s Cove on Lake Travis offers the legendary floating party atmosphere you’ve heard about.

Corporate & Team Events

Looking for a unique team-building venue? Our private boat cruises offer the perfect setting for corporate outings, client entertainment, and company celebrations away from the office. Flexible scheduling and customizable experiences available.

Family Outings

Create multigenerational memories with a scenic lake cruise. Our boats accommodate all ages, with swimming opportunities at calm coves, wildlife spotting, and educational tours of Austin’s waterfront landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Austin Boat Cruises

How much does a boat cruise in Austin cost?
Austin boat cruise prices vary by type and duration. Public sunset cruises typically cost $50-$100 per person. Private party boat cruises range from $150-$350 per hour with 3-4 hour minimums. Tide Up Boat Rentals offers private Lake Austin boat cruises starting at $395 for weekday rentals, including captain, fuel, and all amenities. Sunset cruises start at $800.
What is the best boat cruise in Austin?
The best Austin boat cruise depends on your preferences. For romance, sunset cruises on Lake Austin featuring Pennybacker Bridge and Little Venice are unmatched. For parties, Lake Travis cruises to Devil’s Cove offer epic floating party experiences. Tide Up’s Friday Night Music Cruise—featuring sunset views and live music at Beachside Billy’s—is especially popular.
Can you bring alcohol on Austin boat cruises?
Yes! Tide Up Boat Rentals cruises are BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverages). Bring beer, wine, liquor, and any drinks you prefer. Important: Glass containers are prohibited on Texas lakes—use cans or plastic bottles only. We provide coolers and ice to keep everything cold.
What do you see on a Lake Austin boat cruise?
Lake Austin cruises feature iconic sights including Pennybacker Bridge (360 Bridge), Little Venice with its multi-million dollar mansions, Mount Bonnell views, celebrity homes (including Matthew McConaughey’s lakehouse), Austin Country Club, Ski Shores Café, and stunning Texas Hill Country scenery. Sunset cruises offer spectacular golden hour views.
How long are Austin boat cruises?
Cruise durations vary by type. Public sunset cruises typically last 1-2 hours. Private party boat cruises have a 3-4 hour minimum. Tide Up’s Friday Night Music Cruise runs 4 hours (6pm-10pm). Full-day private charters are also available for extended adventures on either lake.
Do I need to book Austin boat cruises in advance?
Yes, advance booking is strongly recommended. Sunset cruises and weekend party boats fill up quickly. Book 2-4 weeks ahead for weekdays, 4-8 weeks for weekends during peak season. Bachelor/bachelorette groups should book 2-3 months in advance. Tide Up offers easy online booking with instant confirmation.
What is Little Venice on Lake Austin?
Little Venice is a unique Venetian-style canal neighborhood featuring spectacular multi-million dollar waterfront mansions with Mediterranean architecture, private docks, and stunning landscaping. It’s one of the most photographed spots on any Austin boat cruise and a highlight of sunset tours. Tide Up captains know the perfect routes through Little Venice.
Are Austin boat cruises good for families?
Absolutely! Scenic Lake Austin cruises are excellent for families of all ages. The calm waters are safe for children, boats have shaded areas, and there are opportunities to see wildlife and learn about Austin landmarks. Tide Up provides life jackets for all ages and family-friendly captains.
What’s the best time for a sunset cruise in Austin?
Most sunset cruises depart 1.5-2 hours before sunset to enjoy golden hour on the water. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and stunning colors. Tide Up’s sunset cruises run daily at 6:30pm (times vary seasonally). The Friday Night Music Cruise (6pm-10pm) combines sunset views with live music.
Can I rent a private boat cruise in Austin?
Yes! Private cruises are one of the most popular options. Tide Up Boat Rentals specializes in private captained cruises for 12-20 passengers. Private cruises let you customize departure time, destination, music, and atmosphere. Starting at $395 for weekdays, they’re perfect for celebrations, corporate events, and special occasions.

What Our Cruise Guests Say

SUNSET CRUISE

★★★★★

The sunset cruise on Lake Austin was absolutely magical! Watching the sky change colors as we passed under Pennybacker Bridge and through Little Venice was unforgettable. Captain Wes was knowledgeable and made the experience perfect.

— Michelle R. | Anniversary Cruise

PARTY CRUISE

★★★★★

Wes was absolutely amazing! He made sure we were all safe and comfortable throughout our entire boat tour. We were so lucky to have him as our captain! Definitely recommend Tide Up for anyone looking for a good time in Austin!!

— Kristen C. | Bachelorette Party

FRIDAY NIGHT CRUISE

★★★★★

The Friday Night Music Cruise was the highlight of our Austin trip! Sunset views from the water, arriving at Beachside Billy’s by boat, live music—it was absolutely perfect. Already planning to book again!

— Jason T. | Weekend Getaway

Ready to Cruise Austin’s Beautiful Lakes?

From stunning sunset tours to epic party boat adventures, Tide Up Boat Rentals offers Austin’s best boat cruise experiences. Book today and discover why we’re the top choice for Lake Austin and Lake Travis cruises!

Book Your Cruise Now
Explore Lake Austin

Book Your Austin Boat Cruise Today

There’s no better way to experience Austin than from the water. Whether you’re seeking a romantic sunset cruise, planning an epic party boat cruise in Austin, or looking for the perfect Lake Austin boat cruise rental for your group, Tide Up Boat Rentals delivers unforgettable experiences.

Our professional captains, premium boats, and all-inclusive packages make planning easy so you can focus on what matters—creating memories with the people you love. From the moment you step aboard to the final sunset, we’re committed to making your Austin boat cruise extraordinary.

Reserve Your Cruise Today

 

Tide Up Boat Rentals

Austin’s Premier Boat Cruise Experience

Sunset Cruises | Party Boat Cruises | Scenic Tours | Private Charters

Lake Austin | Lake Travis | Pennybacker Bridge | Little Venice | Devil’s Cove

© 2024 Tide Up Boat Rentals. All Rights Reserved. | Austin, Texas

 

It’s time to experience the beauty of Austin with a partially guided boat tour. We are excited to offer a two-hour partially-guided tour on either Lake Austin or Lake Travis. Both lakes offer spectacular views and an inside look into what makes Austin so unique. Take this time to tour these scenic lakes or enter one of the infamous party coves and network and hang out with some Austin natives. What ever you decide we guarantee your two hours will be memorable… https://www.groupon.com/deals/viator-tide-up-boat-rentals