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Rent a Boat or Yacht on Lake Travis in Austin, Texas
Get set to boat with the GetMyBoat Guide to Lake TravisPage 10 of 10 (230 listings)
Top Destinations Nearby
Can you rent a boat on Lake Travis?
Yes, you can rent a boat on Lake Travis. Lake Travis is a great boat rental destination, particularly for pontoons, powerboats, and boats for water sports.
How much does it cost to rent a boat on Lake Travis?
Renting a boat on Lake Travis starts at $65 an hour for a small ski boat and goes up to $450 an hour for a luxury motor yacht.
Is Lake Austin the same as Lake Travis?
No, Lake Austin is different from Lake Travis. Lake Travis is a much larger lake that measures roughly 60 miles, with many coves and great places to anchor and relax. While Lake Austin is a constant-level lake or more of a river that is fed from the flow of Lake Travis.
Do you need a boat license to rent a boat on Lake Travis?
No, you do not need a license to rent a boat on Lake Travis. With GetMyBoat, you can rent a boat that includes a licensed captain so that you can enjoy your time on the lake with no worries. If you want to drive the boat yourself, then you may need to take a Boater Education course, depending on your age.
What is the water temperature of Lake Travis?
The water temperature of Lake Travis varies but is usually between 40-55 F in the winter months (Nov-March) and 70-85 F in the summer months (April-October).
What are the best places to visit on Lake Travis?
Devils Cove is the best place for boat parties. Pace Bend Park is great for stopping for a swim, as there are miles of shoreline to explore and even cliffs to enjoy cliff jumping.
When is the best time to visit Lake Travis?
Boating season on Lake Travis starts mid-March, depending on the weather, and can run all the way through October.
Are captains included in the boat rental?
Boats listed on GetMyBoat on Lake Travis offer boat rentals with or without a captain. You can always communicate with the boat owner through GetMyBoat before confirming your booking to ensure your captain and crew needs are met.
The Lake Travis Boating Guide 2023
- First Published Sep 08, 2022
- Last Updated Mar 06, 2023
In This Guide
The GetMyBoat Guide to Lake Travis
A sprawling reservoir of the Colorado River just west of Austin, Texas, Lake Travis was formed in the 1940s with the construction of the Mansfield Dam.
It quickly became a vital water source for the city of Austin — and now, it has become the go-to spot for boat parties (especially for the city’s many, many bachelor parties and bachelorette parties), as well as weekend water sports, fishing, and general relaxing. No wonder it’s one of the most well-regarded and popular water destinations in all of Texas.
Lake Travis at a Glance
It’s no secret that Austin, Texas has experienced a growth explosion over the past decade, and with it has come an explosion of interest in experiencing Lake Travis, especially during the summer months. Luckily, the lake offers 30 square miles of opportunities for boating, water sports, fishing, and more. It’s a top destination for bachelor and bachelorette parties, and with the high temperatures experienced in Texas during the summer months, it’s an essential place to visit to beat the heat.
4 Hours
The average rental duration for GetMyBoat bookings on Lake Travis — perfect for a long and leisurely party.
May to September
May to September rentals account for 87% of all GetMyBoat trips in Austin, though the weather allows for year-round boating.
GetMyBoat Lake Travis Statistics
As of
- Active boat listings
- 300+
- People sent boating
- 18,500+
- Average cost per booking
- $630
- Measuring 16' to 33', these are the most popular boat rental in Austin, followed by pontoons
- Medium Power Boats
Boating Season in Lake Travis
Like most places, summer is definitely the peak season — especially so in Austin since cruising through the waters and jumping in for a swim is one of the best ways to beat the oppressive summer heat, where temperatures are routinely in the triple digits.
But luckily, you can enjoy boating on Lake Travis year-round. The spring and fall are still plenty warm and full of sunshine for extended days out on the water, and while Austin’s winter weather has a bit of chill in the mornings and evenings, there’s still enough sun and warmth to get out onto a boat during the daytime if you’re dedicated.
When are the best times to visit?
Our personal preference is the springtime, from April to June, which is when you’ll have bright sun and warm weather, but before the intense heat of the Texas summer sets in.
What’s the water temperature like?
Lake Travis tends to be quite warm, ranging in the high 70ºs up to 80º or so at the peak of late summer. In the springtime, it’s in the lower 70ºs, with a more refreshing feel. And then there’s a sharp drop-off in the wintertime, when the water temperature will get down to 60º or even lower.
Current Conditions
Temperature
88 °FWater temp.
95 °FHumidity
29 %Pressure
1011 hPaWind
W 22.15 f/secVisibility
15 miCloudiness
6 %Local Events
Lake Travis Film Festival
September 15-18, 2022An annual cinema fest spread out along the shores of Lake Travis, with screenings, Q&As, and more
Lake Travis 4th of July Fireworks
July 4thHead out onto the water, or grab a seat at a lakeside restaurant, to catch the annual fireworks show explode into the Austin sky
Holiday Boat Parade
December 3, 2022Enjoy Austin’s relatively warm December weather while celebrating the season with this festival of holiday boating lights
Live Music at The Oasis
Schedule variesEnjoy Austin’s famous live music while you enjoy some food & drinks at this iconic, sprawling restaurant and venue perched high above Lake Travis
What Types of Boats Can I Rent on Lake Travis?
Lake Travis offers a variety of different boat styles to rent, making it easy to find the ideal vessel for a day on the water. Pontoons, powerboats, wake boats for water sports, and even houseboats for overnight adventures on the water are available.
Yachts
$250-500A yacht is a larger sailing or power vessel that can be used for racing or pleasure cruising.
Common Features:
- Up to 8 People
- Interior Cabin
- Exterior Seating
- Captain & Crew
- Bluetooth Speakers
Pontoons
$75-150A flattish boat that relies on two floats for buoyancy. Pontoons are great for casual cruising, sandbar stops, swimming off the sides and for groups partying in Austin. It can be a really budget-friendly boating option.
Common Features:
- Up to 10 People
- Ample Seating
- Bluetooth Speakers
- Bimini Tops
- Outboard Motor
Houseboats
$150-300A houseboat is a boat that has been designed to have all the comforts of home - including bedrooms, bathrooms, a kitchen and living area.
Common Features:
- Up to 12 People
- Galley Kitchen
- Interior Cabin
- Sleeping Quarters
- Outdoor Deck Seating
Wake Boats / Ski Boats
$200-400A wake boat (sometimes called a ski boat) is a style of powerboat that is most often used for enjoying water sports like wakeboarding, waterskiing, wakesurfing, kneeboarding, and more.
Common Features:
- Up to 6 People
- Watersports Equipment
- Bluetooth Speakers
- Wakeboard Tower
- Inboard Motor
Sailboats
$150-300A sailboat is a vessel with sails that relies on wind power and/or sometimes also has a backup motor. Sailboats come in a huge variety of styles and sizes.
Common Features:
- Up to 6 People
- Mainsail
- Jib
- Skipper & Crew
- Interior Storage Cabin
Catamarans
$150-400A catamaran can be power or sail-powered and is a vessel with two parallel hulls. Catamarans get their stability from the wide beam across the hulls. Catamarans are great party boats and for staying overnight on the water in Austin.
Common Features:
- Up to 10 People
- Captain & Crew
- Interior Cabins
- Head
- Double Hull
Fishing Boats & Charters
$100-200A fishing boat is any vessel that is designed for fishing. They can have flat bottoms for inshore angling or be large charter boats used for deep-sea fishing.
Common Features:
- Up to 6 People
- Bait, Tackle & Fishing Gear
- Cooler with Ice
- FishFinder Technology
- Rod Holders
- Fish Storage Boxes
Jet Skis
$75-140A fast and fun way to explore the local waters, jet skis (or PwC, personal watercraft) come in single-, two-, and even three-seat styles and can be used for all kinds of water sports and tours.
Common Features:
- 1 to 3 People
- Internal Engine
- Electric Ignition
- Handlebar Steering
- Water Jet
Where to Eat, Drink, Stay, and More
Lake Travis and the surrounding Austin shores have so much to offer — where to even begin planning your itinerary when you’re in town? Here’s a start. We’ve pulled some of our favorite local spots for every aspect of an Austin trip, like boat-up restaurants to experience the “dock & dine” lifestyle. And that’s to say nothing of all the amazing boating destinations, spread all throughout the surrounding area.
Lake Travis Boating Experiences
Reasons To Rent a Boat in Lake Travis
Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties
Since Austin has recently become a top destination for bachelor and bachelorette parties, Lake Travis has grown in popularity for celebrating these events. Since Texas is home to a hot sun for a majority of the year, a boat day can be the perfect way to cool off (and recover) after a late night at the bars partying. A captained charter can provide all the key elements of a bachelor or bachelorette party on Lake Travis - whether you want to have a relaxing float in a quiet bay, tie up with other boats and meet new people at a boat party in Devil’s Cove, or check out waterfront restaurants, let a Lake Travis boat captain help create the perfect activity for your special weekend in Austin.
Birthday Parties
Want to celebrate a birthday on the water? Lake Travis has many amazing boat charters available for a fun birthday boat party. Skip the candles but bring the cake, drinks, and your favorite people onboard a pontoon or a motor yacht to cruise while celebrating another year around the sun.
Family Reunions & Gatherings
Have a special anniversary or an annual family reunion you need to plan for? Why not take it on the water? Boat rentals are a great choice for a multi-generational outing - kids can enjoy fun activities like swimming and fishing, and grandparents or elderly family members can enjoy a comfortable seat on a covered boat deck to relax with their favorite people. Find the perfect pontoon or yacht to host your family onboard for a fun day on Lake Travis.
Corporate Events
Looking to plan a company cruise? Look no further! Bring your work teammates on a boat charter to celebrate career milestones or other achievements at work. It’s an out-of-the-box experience that helps your team enjoy the best parts about being in Austin - the beautiful outdoors and lakes of Hill Country. Build morale and make memories wtih your coworkers on the water with a corporate boat charter. A team-building exercise is bound to be much more enjoyable when you’re cruising the waves.
Water Sports Lessons & Experiences
Water sports are huge on Lake Travis. Here you will see dozens of people wakeboarding, wake surfing, waterskiing, and more, taking advantage of the wake of powerboats all over the lake. Learning how to enjoy these watersports is the first step - and lessons are available on Lake Travis for beginners. Find great deals on water sports lessons and equipment rentals to take your boat day to the next level.
Local Boating Services
A note: if you’re renting a boat through GetMyBoat, please contact the boat owner before utilizing any of the following services. They may have a preferred provider or the services may be covered through insurance or within your rental agreement.
Boat Towing Services
Sea Tow Central Texas
- Open 24-hours
- Multiple Locations
- Fast-response times for towing needs
- All captains are USCG-licensed
23415-1 Pedernales Canyon Trail Spicewood, TX 78669 (512) 328-4869
Flagship Towing
- Locally owned and operated
- Boat towing & salvage services
- Open 24-hours
16107 Farm to Market Road 2769 Leander, TX 78641 (512) 299-2424
Boat Technicians and Mechanics
Bee’s Marine Services
- Routine Maintenance
- Boat Repair
- Detailing
- Equipment Installation
2110 Ranch Rd 620 S #342634, Lakeway, TX 78734 (512) 626-3755
McNeill Marine
- Repowering
- Fiberglass Repair & Restoration
- Suzuki Certified Technicians
15801 FM2769, Leander, TX 78641 (512) 335-5421
Noack Marine
- Boat Repair
- Routine Maintenance
- Marine Supply Store & Lake Service is available
5521 Hiline Rd, Austin, TX 78734 (512) 790-2628
Boat Storage on Lake Travis
Highland Lakes Marina
- Dry & Wet Storage
- Deepest Launch Ramp on Lake Travis
- Jet Ski Storage
- Full-Service Marina
16120 Wharf Cove, Volente, TX 78641 (512) 258-9662
Northshore Marina at the Hollows
- Hundreds of Covered Wet Boat Slips & PWC Slips
- Pump Out Station
- Electricity & Cable Hookups
- Lowest Gas Prices on Lake Travis
6612 Lantern View Dr, Jonestown, TX 78645 (512) 267-6222
Lake Travis RV & Boat Storage
- Self-Storage
- 24/7 Access
- Video Survelliance
15601 Checotah Dr, Austin, TX 78734 (512) 264-3775
Marinas & Boat Services
Waterford Marina on Lake Travis
- 80 wet slips for boat storage
- Freshwater and electricity hookups
- Boat cleaning and insect control services
- On-site pump out station
205 Westwater Ct, Leander, TX 78645 (325) 718-2170
Lake Travis Marina
- Wet Storage Slips
6410 Hudson Bend Rd, Austin, TX 78734 (512) 266-3290
Safety, Preparation, and Navigation
What to Bring on Your Boat Rental
Bringing the right stuff can make or break your boat day, so get together a checklist of what you’ll want well ahead of time so that you don’t forget on the day of.
What to bring will depend on your itinerary and weather conditions, but that being said — it’s always a good idea to bring water, snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, towels, a warm extra layer of clothing (in case it gets chilly), as well as boat shoes. Your boat captain or owner that you rent from can give you more ideas on necessary essentials to bring.
And while most boat captains, owners, and boat rental services should include lifejackets and safety gear, if you have a personal lifejacket that you prefer to wear while enjoying watersports or other activities, it’s a good idea to bring it along.
It might feel like overkill for a casual day on the water, but it’s always better to be over-prepared than under-prepared.
Boating at Night
Visibility is reduced at night, so it’s essential to slow down and be aware of your surroundings. Chartplotters and marine radars are beneficial tools to use in the dark and help you feel more confident when navigating the waters at night. Between the hours of sunset and sunrise or during times of reduced visibility (fog, rain, haze), recreational vessels are required to display navigation lights.
Wake Zones
“Wake” are the waves that form as your watercraft moves through the water. It’s important to be on the lookout for a “no-wake zone” - an area where a vessel must operate at a slow speed that doesn’t create a wake. You can usually identify a no-wake zone by white and orange floating markers or a row of markers.
Emergency Services
Dial 911 from any land or cellular phone
Lake Travis Fire Rescue: (512) 266-2997
United States Coast Guard: via Channel 16 (156.8 MHz), on a marine VHF radio
Lake Travis Boating FAQs
General Questions
How much does it cost to rent a boat on Lake Travis?
Renting a boat on Lake Travis starts at $65 an hour for a small ski boat and goes up to $450 an hour for a luxury motor yacht.
Is Lake Austin the same as Lake Travis?
No, Lake Austin is not the same as Lake Travis. Lake Travis is a much larger lake that measures roughly 60 miles with lots of coves and great places to anchor and relax. While Lake Austin is a constant level lake or more of a river that is fed from the flow of Lake Travis.
What is the water temperature of Lake Travis?
The water temperature of Lake Travis varies but is usually between 40-55° F in the winter months (Nov-March) and 70-85° F in the summer months (April-October).
What are the best places to visit on Lake Travis?
Devils Cove is the best place for boat parties. Pace Bend Park is great for stopping for a swim, as there are miles of shoreline to explore and even cliffs to enjoy cliff jumping.
When is the best time to visit Lake Travis?
Boating season on Lake Travis starts mid-March depending on the weather and can run all the way through October.
Are captains included with the boat rental?
Boats listed on GetMyBoat on Lake Travis offer boat rentals with or without a captain. You can always communicate with the boat owner through GetMyBoat before confirming your booking to ensure your captain and crew needs are met.
Rental Basics
How much does it cost to rent a boat in Austin?
Boat rental prices in Austin vary significantly. You can find boat rentals in Austin starting at $50 per hour. Luxury yacht charters can cost up to several thousand for a day of cruising with captain and crew.
Are floats and tubes included?
Many boat rentals and charters include the use of floating toys like lily pads, inflatable unicorns, and other items that are perfect for a swimming stop to relax in the water. If you’re hoping to have a float day in addition to your boat day, check the boat listing’s description and ask the boat captain or owner if they have floating toys that are included before confirming your booking.
Do boat rentals include a captain?
Boat rentals are typically offered with or without a captain. You can always communicate with the boat owner before confirming your booking to ensure your captain and crew needs are met.
Can I play my own music on the boat?
Most boats will have a sound system with either an AUX or Bluetooth connection which will allow you to play your own music. It is always best to check with the captain on the specifics prior to booking, but plan on creating the perfect boat-day playlist to bring on board.
Boating Licenses
Can anyone rent a boat in Austin, Texas?
To rent a boat in Austin you must be 18 years of age and have completed a boater safety education course. If you have a boating license from another state, this can apply to the requirements to rent a boat in Austin.
Do you need a boat license to rent a boat in Austin?
Boat license rules in Texas and Austin depend on your age. If you were born after 1988 you will need to complete a boat safety education course and receive a safety identification card. Check out Boat-Ed for more information on earning a boat safety card so you can rent a boat in Texas.
Boating Safety Education Identification Card
Yes, You Need a Boater Education Card if You:
- Were born after 1/1/88
- Failed to complete an approved boating safety course in Texas
- Operate a 10+ horsepower boat
- Operate in state or federal waters
- Did not complete an approved boating safety course out of state
- Are not accompanied by a person who is 18+ years old with a Boating Safety Education Identification Card
- Are not accompanied by a person who was born before 1/1/88
No, You Don’t Need a Boater Education Card if You:
- Were born before 1/1/88
- Obtained a Boating Safety Education Identification Card
- Completed an approved boater safety course in another state
- Operate a less than 10 horsepower motor boat
- Operate on a private lake or pond
- Accompanied by a person who is 18+ years old who has a Boating Safety Education Identification Card
- Accompanied by a person who was born before 1/1/88
- Accompanied by a person licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard
How much is a Boater Education Card?
A Boater Education Card will cost anywhere from $0-$50 depending on the type of test you take and if you want your ID card professionally printed.
How long is a Boater Education Card good for?
A Boating Safety Education Identification Card has no expiration date, however, the temporary safety course certificate (proof of online course completion that you can print out and use before the ID card comes) expires after 90 days.
GetMyBoat has 230 listings for boating experiences in Lake Travis with 2,534 reviews.
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