Top Tips to Rent a Boat in Austin Like a Local

Renting a boat in Austin is one of the best ways to experience the city's laid-back vibe, beautiful waterways, and thriving lake culture. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or you’ve lived here for years, nothing beats cruising Lake Travis or Lake Austin with friends, drinks, and sunshine.

But if you want to do it like a local—and skip the tourist traps, hidden fees, or last-minute stress—there are a few things you should know. Here's your go-to guide with top tips to rent a boat in Austin like someone who’s been doing it every summer.

1. Know Your Lakes: Lake Travis vs. Lake Austin

First, choose the right lake for your vibe.

• Lake Travis is the go-to for party boats, bachelor/bachelorette events, and big group outings. It’s deeper, wider, and filled with popular hangout spots like Devil’s Cove.
  
  

• Lake Austin is calmer and narrower—perfect for relaxing cruises, family rides, or a more scenic, low-key experience.
  
  

Locals often prefer Lake Travis for high-energy weekends and Lake Austin for weekday escapes or small gatherings.

2. Book in Advance (Especially on Weekends)

Boat rentals in Austin fill up quickly—especially on sunny weekends, holidays, and during event seasons like SXSW or Memorial Day. Local insiders know to book 2–4 weeks in advance, particularly if you want a specific time slot or boat type.

For last-minute planners, weekday rentals are your best bet for availability and better pricing.

3. Choose the Right Type of Boat

Not all boats are created equal. Depending on your group size and plan, you’ll want to pick the right setup:

• Pontoon boats – Perfect for casual groups, parties, or just floating around with music.
  
  

• Party barges – Best for large groups (10–20+ people), often come with slides, coolers, and loudspeakers.
  
  

• Wakeboard/ski boats – Ideal if you’re into water sports.
  
  

• Yachts or luxury cruisers – For upscale events or relaxing in style.
  
  

Pro tip: Most locals renting for a fun day opt for pontoons with captains included—it takes the pressure off navigating and lets everyone relax.

4. Hire a Licensed Captain

Many Austin boat rental companies offer captained rentals, meaning an experienced local captain handles everything from navigation to docking. For locals, this is the default choice—especially if alcohol is involved (and it usually is).

Hiring a captain also means you get insider knowledge of the lake, safety is covered, and you don’t need to worry about boating licenses or damage deposits.

5. Ask What’s Included

Before booking, ask your rental company exactly what’s included. Not all boats come with the same perks.

Look for:

• Fuel included or extra?
  
  

• Cooler and ice provided?
  
  

• Bluetooth speakers or sound system?
  
  

• Water floats, lily pads, or paddleboards?
  
  

• Life jackets for all guests?
  
  

Locals avoid hidden fees by asking these upfront—and choose companies with all-in-one pricing to avoid surprises later.

6. Time It Right

For the best experience, consider what time of day you’re booking:

• Morning (9 AM–12 PM): Best for peaceful rides, fewer boats, and calm water.
  
  

• Afternoon (1 PM–4 PM): Ideal for sunshine and social energy.
  
  

• Evening (5 PM–8 PM): Sunset cruises are stunning—locals love winding down with golden-hour views.
  
  

Avoid peak heat in the mid-afternoon if you’re sensitive to sun, and always pack sunscreen no matter the time.

7. Know the Rules (and Respect the Water)

Locals love the lakes, and keeping them safe and clean is a shared priority. Follow basic lake etiquette:

• Don’t litter—bring a trash bag.
  
  

• Don’t bring glass bottles—use cans or plastic.
  
  

• Stay sober if you’re the one driving (or book with a captain).
  
  

• Respect music levels near residential areas.
  
  

• Always wear a life jacket when swimming far from the boat.
  
  

Following the rules helps everyone enjoy the lake safely—and keeps the good vibes going all summer.

8. Split the Cost with Friends

Locals know boating can be surprisingly affordable when split between friends. A 3–4 hour rental with a captain on Lake Travis party boat might run $600–$800 total—divide that by 10–12 people and it’s often cheaper than a night out downtown.

Use apps like Venmo or Splitwise to make cost-sharing simple and stress-free.

9. Pack Like a Pro

Here’s what savvy locals bring on a boat day:

• Cooler with drinks/snacks (ice if not included)
  
  

• Sunscreen and hats
  
  

• Towels
  
  

• Bluetooth playlist ready to go
  
  

• Floating phone case or dry bag
  
  

• Swimsuit, change of clothes, flip-flops
  
  

Don’t overpack—storage space on boats is limited—and check with your rental company if anything’s already provided.

10. Choose a Reputable Local Company

Finally, locals always go with trusted rental companies that are known for good service, safety, and well-maintained boats. Look for:

• Verified Google reviews
  
  

• Easy online booking
  
  

• Transparent pricing
  
  

• Friendly communication
  
  

• Licensed captains and insured boats
  
  

Skip the sketchy listings or unverified private rentals—it’s not worth the risk.

Final Thought

Rent a boat in Austin is a must-do experience, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime local. With the right prep, a good group, and a trusted rental service, your day on Lake Travis or Lake Austin can be one for the books.

Follow these local-approved tips, and you’ll not only have a blast—you’ll do it like you’ve lived here for years.