The Best Boat Rentals in Lake Buchanan

Most pontoons and deck boats on Lake Buchanan run about $100–$150 per hour, with half-day blocks commonly $300–$500 and full days $400–$700 depending on size and season. Captained sightseeing cruises for small groups are often around $500–$600 for four hours, and guided fishing charters typically start near $500 for a half day for 1–4 anglers. Listings usually include standard safety gear and basic orientation. Fuel may be included or billed at the end, taxes and service fees are added at checkout, and security deposits are sometimes required. Exact inclusions appear on each Getmyboat listing before you book.

The most popular options here are comfortable pontoon and tritoon boats for cruising and coves, deck boats and wake/ski boats for watersports, and well-equipped fishing boats geared to striped bass and white bass. Larger cabin-style cruisers are less common on this inland lake, so if you need extra space for a big group, look for high-capacity pontoons.

If you want a worry-free day, a captained trip is the easiest choice—your captain handles docking, routing, weather calls, and local highlights. Self-operated rentals are great for experienced boaters who meet Texas boater education requirements and are comfortable with Lake Buchanan’s open-water fetch and afternoon winds. Many owners offer both; pick the option that fits your group’s skill and stress level.

Common pickup spots include the Burnet County Park Public Boat Ramp along FM 2341 on the east side of the lake, the marina and ramp at Thunderbird Lodge near Spider Mountain, the Llano County/Black Rock Park Public Boat Ramp on the southwest shore, and the public ramp near Buchanan Dam. Your captain or owner will confirm the exact meeting point and any gate or parking details after you book.

Expect big Hill Country scenery: the long multi‑arch span of Buchanan Dam, granite bluffs and quiet coves on the Colorado River arm, the Canyon of the Eagles shoreline with frequent birdlife, and small mid‑lake islands that make great swim stops. When water levels are high, a seasonal waterfall at Fall Creek may be visible by boat, and you can often spot the chairlift on Spider Mountain rising above the lakeshore.

Texas requires a boater education certificate for anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 to operate a motorboat over 15 horsepower. Out‑of‑state, NASBLA‑approved certificates are accepted. Operators must be at least 13 years old to run a motorboat, and younger boaters need an adult onboard who can legally operate. If you book a captained rental, your licensed captain operates the boat for you.

Yes—families are welcome. Rentals include U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets, and Texas law requires children under 13 to wear a life jacket while the boat is underway on vessels under 26 feet. If you’re bringing infants or younger children, confirm sizes with your owner in advance; many crews recommend bringing a properly fitted child vest from home to ensure the best fit.

Most hosts allow coolers, snacks, and beverages, and many boats have Bluetooth speakers and shaded seating for easy picnicking. Avoid glass containers, secure everything in coolers or soft bags, and check your listing for any restrictions like no red wine or no grilling onboard. If alcohol is allowed, keep your captain or designated operator sober for safety.

Many owners are pet‑friendly, sometimes with a modest cleaning fee. Ask before booking, bring a towel and waste bags, keep pets off vinyl when wet, and consider a well‑fitted pet life vest if your dog will be near the swim platform. Captains may limit pets on watersports‑focused trips for safety.

Lake Buchanan is a wide reservoir that can get choppy when afternoon winds build, and summer pop‑up storms can affect schedules. After heavy rains, the river authority may post debris or ramp advisories, and certain ramps occasionally close when water is too high or low. Captains and owners monitor conditions and will reschedule or refund per the listing’s weather policy if the lake is unsafe.

Peak boating runs from late spring through early fall, with prime months from May to September. Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day are the busiest weekends on the water and book up fast. Spring wildflower season brings extra visitors to Burnet for the Bluebonnet Festival in early-to-mid April, and late April often sees crowds for the Llano Crawfish Open, so plan ahead. Weekdays are calmer and often cheaper, and morning departures usually offer the smoothest water and cooler temperatures. Fall weekends offer warm water with fewer crowds, while winter is quiet except for specialty wildlife cruises.

Absolutely. Pontoons are popular for celebrating because they’re spacious and easy to board, and captained trips keep the focus on fun while someone else handles the driving. Check the capacity on your specific listing—most lake boats are ideal for groups of 6–12—and share any plans for decorations, playlists, or surprise cakes so your captain can prep coolers, float mats, and timing.

Most groups cruise from a convenient ramp to a scenic cove for swimming, then tour past landmarks like Buchanan Dam and the bluffs on the upper Colorado arm before looping by the lakeside chairlift and islands for photos. Your captain or host will tailor the route to wind direction and your priorities—chill time at anchor, sightseeing, or a fishing‑forward itinerary.

Yes—seasonal nature cruises on the lake’s northeast side spotlight migrating bald eagles from roughly November through March and visit waterfall and cliff areas when water levels allow. These trips are a great add‑on in cooler months, with binoculars and cameras recommended. For DIY sightseeing in warmer seasons, ask your captain about routing past the islands and toward Fall Creek when conditions are right.