The Best Boat Rentals in Austin

Most captained pontoon and tritoon charters around Austin run about $175–$350 per hour with a 3–4 hour minimum, depending on boat size, day of the week, and season. Wake and surf boats with a captain are commonly $200–$275 per hour, while large double‑decker party barges are roughly $200–$300 per hour on weekdays and Sundays and closer to $300–$400 per hour on Saturdays and holiday weekends. Premium cruisers and small yachts can range from about $300 to $600+ per hour. Rates often include the licensed captain on captained trips, standard safety gear, a large floating mat, Bluetooth sound, and basic coolers; fuel and taxes may be included or itemized, and gratuity for your crew (often 10–20%) is customary. Self‑operated rentals may be priced by the half day or day and can require a refundable damage deposit.

You’ll find a wide mix suited to different groups and plans: comfortable pontoons and tritoons for relaxing and cove time, wake and surf boats for watersports, deck and ski boats for cruising, double‑decker party barges for big celebrations, and mid‑size cabin cruisers or small yachts for more upscale outings. If you’re planning a milestone event or need extra space, party barges and tritoons are the most popular on Lake Travis, while wake boats and tritoons are common on Lake Austin.

For groups celebrating a birthday, bachelorette, or corporate outing, a captained trip is the easiest option—your captain handles docking, anchoring, navigation, and safety so you can focus on hosting. Confident boaters sometimes book self‑operated pontoons or deck boats, but anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 must have Texas Boater Education to operate a motorboat over 15 hp. If you want to surf, tie up at popular coves, or just keep logistics simple, a captained charter is usually the stress‑free choice.

Common meeting points include the Loop 360 Boat Ramp on Lake Austin (under the Pennybacker/360 Bridge) and Walsh Boat Landing on Lake Austin near Tarrytown. For Lake Travis trips, a frequent pickup is the Mansfield Dam Park boat ramp on the lake’s south end. Your exact dock or pickup spot will be confirmed after booking and may vary with water levels, parking availability, or event traffic.

On Lake Austin, you’ll cruise past limestone bluffs, elegant waterfront homes, and the iconic Pennybacker (360) Bridge, with Hill Country views near Mount Bonnell. On Lake Travis, expect wide open water, dramatic cliffs, Mansfield Dam, and popular raft‑up spots like Starnes Island. Sunset runs on Lake Travis are especially scenic, with big western skies over the Hill Country.

For self‑operated rentals, Texas requires Boater Education for anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 to operate a motorboat over 15 horsepower. Bring your certification and a valid photo ID. If you book a captained charter, you won’t need a license—the captain operates the vessel. Age restrictions for operators and supervision rules apply; your booking confirmation will outline what’s needed.

Yes, families are welcome. All legitimate operators provide U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets; let your host know the ages and approximate weights of children so they can bring the right sizes. Texas law requires children under 13 to wear a life jacket while a vessel is underway, and your captain or rental host will brief you on safe seating, swimming stops, and rules for using floating mats and slides.

Most Austin charters allow BYO snacks, water, and beverages, and many supply coolers and ice or can add them on request. Glass is not permitted on area lakes, so pack drinks in cans or reusable bottles. Some large party boats include a grill and crew help; if you’d like catering or a specific setup, coordinate those details in advance so it’s ready when you board.

Pet policies vary by boat. Many captains will allow well‑behaved dogs with advance approval, especially on pontoons and tritoons. Plan to bring a towel, a leash for docking areas, and a waste plan; sharp claws can damage upholstery, and some vessels or marinas prohibit pets entirely. Always check the listing’s rules before booking.

Central Texas summers are hot and can bring pop‑up storms or gusty winds in the afternoon. Captains monitor radar and may adjust the route or start time for safety. If unsafe conditions arise, most listings offer a weather reschedule or refund consistent with their stated policy. Water levels on Lake Travis can also impact the exact pickup location or cove selection; your captain will advise you if plans shift.

Yes—Austin is one of the country’s top spots for on‑the‑water celebrations. Most party‑friendly boats include a big floating mat, great sound, shade, and space for coolers. Tell your host the occasion, headcount, and any special requests (decor drop‑off, photo stops, or a specific cove) so they can match you with the right boat and a captain experienced with group events.

Peak boating runs from late spring through early fall, roughly May through September, with warm shoulder months in April and October. Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day are the busiest and book up far in advance. City‑wide events like SXSW in March and Austin City Limits in October also drive demand. For smoother water, easier parking, and often better rates, choose weekdays or morning departures; afternoons and Saturdays are the most crowded, especially on Lake Travis.

On Lake Travis, groups often anchor near Starnes Island or in protected coves for floating and music, while sightseeing cruises run along the cliffs near Mansfield Dam for sunset views. On Lake Austin, many trips include a slow pass under the Pennybacker Bridge and time to relax in calmer coves. Your captain will recommend the best plan for the day’s wind, boat traffic, and your group’s vibe.