Find the best Lake Travis boat rentals
Top Lake Travis, TX Boat Rentals and Yacht Charters
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Austin, TX
#1 Party Boat for Rent in the Austin Area
$92+
/hour
Leander, TX
Tahoe T16. The Perfect Boat for a Perfect Day
$125+
/hour
Austin, TX
Perfect for Bachelorette, Bachelor, & Bdays
Austin, TX
Brandnew 2023 Party/FUN/Sport Searay 21' Powerboat in Lake Travis
$135+
/hour
Leander, TX
(2 of 5) 2021 Berkshire 24FT Tri-Toon w/Yamaha-150
Austin, TX
Yamaha AR195 / BIG WETSOUND SYSTEM with XM radio
$125+
/hour
Austin, TX
Perfect for Bachelorette, Bachelor, and Birthdays
Austin, TX
Gorgeous Nautique for Surfing & the Cove
Austin, TX
Pontoon - No experience required!
$138+
/hour
Austin, TX
Malibu 22MXZ - Lake Austin, Lake Travis
Austin, TX
Unwind & Reset! Book a Blue Mind Experience!
$135+
/hour
Leander, TX
(1 of 5) 2021 Berkshire 24FT Tri-Toon w/Yamaha-150
Austin, TX
Unique Lake Austin, Lake Travis Experience
Austin, TX
Valhalla III - SeaRay 40ft Yacht on Lake Travis
Lago Vista, TX
Axis Wakesurf Boat
How to rent a boat in Lake Travis?
Find the perfect boat
Enter your desired location and date to explore our fleet of boat, Lake Travis, TX, United Statess.
Select a captain
Choose to drive yourself or select a USCG licensed captain.
Book with ease
Connect with your boat owner and complete your booking online.
Set sail
Enjoy your day on the water with friends and family!
Rent a Boat in Lake Travis
In close competition with Lake Austin, Lake Travis has become one of the premier boating destinations for locals and visitors to the Austin, Texas area. You can’t beat the local climate, with sunny days in the 70°s being the norm for most of the year. The lake has become infamous for its iconic party scene, with massive raft-ups taking place at Devil’s Cove, Starnes Island, and Hippie Hollow Park. Its close proximity to downtown Austin—less than 20 miles and a quick 30 minute drive—has easily put Lake Travis on our list of one of the best lakes for boating in the United States.
What To Know
For the best Lake Travis boat rental experience, be sure to secure one of these boat types:
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Pontoon boats are essentially big party barges, large enough to suit families, couples, and groups of friends. Pontoons are perfect vessels for navigating party spots like Devil’s Cove and Starnes Island, and most of them are also equipped to pull towable tubes.
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Wake boats and ski boats provide an adrenaline rush for renters looking to try wakesurfing, wakeboarding, water skiing, or kneeboarding for the first time. They also tend to have epic sound systems to help you ‘rock’ the boat.
Safety Requirements:
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Boating License/Education Rules: Texas has a mandatory boat education law that applies to some operators of boats and/or personal watercrafts (PWCs), including a 16-year old minimum age to operate a vessel with horsepower greater than 15 HP (including PWCs).
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Life Jacket Requirements: 13 years and under must wear a PFD.
For more information, visit Texas Parks & Wildlife website.
Where to dock your boat, or meet your rental:
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Lake Travis Marina
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Paradise Cove Marina
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VIP Marina Lake Travis
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Highland Lakes Marina
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Northshore Marina at the Hollows
For more information, check out Boating on Lake Travis: Everything You Need to Know.
Weather Conditions
The Austin area, including Lake Travis, offers an ideal year-round boating climate. Winter is short and mild, while most of the year is humid but comfortable, with temperatures averaging in the mid-70°s and reaching the upper 80°s and mid-90°s in the middle of summer. Trust us when we say—you will feel that intense Texas heat between the months of July and August, which makes cooling off in Lake Travis a go-to activity for all. The best part about Lake Travis weather? Boats do not need to be winterized, which means the lake is wide open and there are boat rentals available 365 days out of the year.
Avg. Temperature High: Peaks around 96°F in July and August
Avg. Temperature Low: Around 41-45°F during winter months, from December through February
Avg. Water Temperatures in and around Austin:
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73°F in the Spring (March, April, May)
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83°F in the Summer (June, July, August)
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79°F in Fall (September, October, November)
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65°F in Winter (December, January, February)
Things to Do on Lake Travis by Boat
Join a Raft-Up Party
Heads up—be sure to check with your boat’s owner before rafting up! This activity is best suited for experienced boaters only, OR for renters who have secured a boat rental with a professional, licensed captain. If you’re doing your own research on the best party coves in America, there’s no doubt that you’ll find Lake Travis’ Devil’s Cove on any list you come across. While Devil’s Cove holds most of the admiration and fame, other popular locations for rafting up on Lake Travis include Starnes Island, Rough Hollow Cove, and Hippie Hollow. On any given weekend throughout the summer—and particularly on holiday weekends like Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, Labor Day, and even spring break—you can find hundreds of friends and strangers tying together for one giant raft-up party.
Pro Tip: We highly recommend booking a captained rental so you can enjoy the Devil’s Cove party to its fullest. Having a professional captain (a.k.a. a designated sober skipper) will allow you to sit back and relax, while your captain mans the helm and handles the process of rafting up with other boats.
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Location: Google Maps Link
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Getting to Devil’s Cove: Devil’s Cove is located on the northshore of Lake Travis, just north of Northshore Marina at the Hollows and Vincent’s on the Lake.
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Lat/Long: 30.4493° N, 97.9487° W
Go Fishing for Largemouth Bass & Catfish
Ask any experienced angler, and they won’t just tell you Lake Travis is good for fishing, but it’s great for fishing! Largemouth bass are the main species of interest here, with catfish following close behind as the second most common target. If you’re focused on bass fishing, be sure to use lures and match your lure to the water color. Catfish on the other hand are best caught with cut fish (ex. shad) or minnow for bait. For first-timers who have never fished on Lake Travis before, consider opting for a guided fishing charter to learn from the pros that can provide local knowledge and tips for success.
Pro Tip: Lake Travis gets very, very busy during the summer months and the waterways do get crowded. If you’re planning to fish in the summer, we recommend heading out early in the morning and throwing your first cast before sunrise. Wrap up your fishing excursion around mid-morning.
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Target Species: Largemouth bass, black bass, white bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill, freshwater drum, gar, stripers, sunfish
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Seasonality: If you’re planning a fishing trip to Lake Travis, book your fishing boat rentals and freshwater fishing charters for spring and fall for peak action; although, black bass is known to be caught year-round.
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Best locations for fishing: Mansfield Dam Park, Tom Hughes Park, Cypress Creek Park
Try Wakesurfing, Wakeboarding or Water Skiing
Lake Travis is known for its reasonably calm waters, making it the perfect environment for first-timers and seasoned-pros to enjoy watersports at their best. Luckily, there are a wide variety of wake boat and ski boat rentals available, many of which can be booked with professional captains who will not only drive the boat, but help provide guidance and tips for learning how to get started. Wakesurfing is the hottest trend in watersports and requires a special kind of boat to throw off a large enough wake for boaters to surf—be sure to inquire with your boat’s owner to see if the boat has wakesurfing capabilities. Many day boats, like runabouts, bowriders, deck boats, jet boats, or fish-and-ski boats, are also great options for wakeboarding, water skiing, or kneeboarding.
Pro Tip: Residents and local authorities require all wakesurfing participants to follow the basics of “wake responsibly,” which includes: staying at least 200 feet from shore, minimizing repetitive passes, and keeping music at a respectable level near residential areas.
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For families and beginners: We highly recommend booking an experience with a captain who can teach young children the proper techniques for getting up on water skis, wakeboards, kneeboards, or wake surf boards.
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Other uses for tow boats: Remember that wake boats and ski boats can be used for a variety of activities! Enjoy general day cruising, dock-and-dining, raft-ups, island hopping, and more.
Where to go Boating in Lake Travis
Devil’s Cove
If you’re in search of the party on Lake Travis, look no further than Devil’s Cove. Part of its attraction and allure actually has to do with its location. You can find Devil’s Cove just east of Mossy Hollow, and geographically close to the town of Jonestown, making it a very central location for all lake-goers. Likewise, this tucked-away party cove has a depth ranging anywhere from 20 to 60 feet at its deepest. If you’re planning a trip with young children or just hate crowds, you’ll likely want to steer clear of this area. On a typical summer weekend or holiday, you’ll find over 200 or more boats rafted up to create one big floating celebration from sunrise to after sunset. For more insider tips, be sure to read Devil’s Cove on Lake Travis: Boater’s Guide.
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Nearby Marinas: Devil’s Cove is located on the northshore of Lake Travis, just north of Northshore Marina at the Hollows and Vincent’s on the Lake.
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Wake zone: Yes - You will find hundreds of boats of all shapes, styles, and sizes navigating Devil’s Cove. Remember, slow is pro. Follow basic boating etiquette and be aware of your surroundings.
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Pro Tips: Be aware that local police and lake patrols frequent this area and do carry out on-water sobriety tests. Always boat with a designated sober skipper—which you can find by booking a captained rental here on Boatsetter.
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Lat/Long: 30.4493° N, 97.9487° W
Starnes Island
Call it what you want—Rattlesnake Island, Snake Island, or Monkey Island—but what’s now referred to as Starnes Island, has solidified its position as one of the most famous boating locations on Lake Travis. Often hiding in plain sight, this small getaway welcomes boaters, cliff jumpers, and scuba divers to its shores (heads up divers—you won’t want to miss the ‘lady of the deep’ around 60 feet). Fun fact: Starnes Island was actually featured in the intro to the movie, ‘Spy Kids.’ While this is a popular location for party barges, it’s also a great stop for families.
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Nearby Marinas: Just north of Starnes Island is VIP Marina Lake Travis, you can also find Lake Travis Marina to the south and the Northshore Marina at the Hollows to the west.
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Wake zone: Yes - with special navigation rules in effect during some holiday weekends
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Pro Tips: Starnes Island is THE go-to spot to watch fireworks during the Fourth of July if you’re boating on Lake Travis. Secure your spot anchored on or near the island early, and keep an eye out for the fireworks display presented by Volente Beach and Beachside Billy’s.
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Lat/Long: 30.4383° N, 97.9211° W
Hippie Hollow Park
Heads up parents, leave the kiddos at home for this one! This location and experience is for adults-only. As the only clothing-optional public park in Texas, Hippie Hollow Park is quite a sight to be seen. Restricted to those 18 years of age or older, this 109-acre beach is popular for skinny dipping and nude-sunbathing along the shore’s rocky limestone edges. Earning its name ‘Hippie Hollow’ during the 60’s when the nude beach first got started, today boaters flock to the area to anchor just offshore. If arriving from land, you’re in for a bit of an amateur rock climb, and can expect the cost of entry to be $8 for adults or $3 for seniors.
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Hours: The park is open every day, rain or shine, from 9am to 8:30pm. Be aware that there are no lifeguards on duty.
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Wake zone: Yes - also keep an eye out for blocked-off swimming areas where boats and other vessels are prohibited.
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Pro Tips: Hippie Hollow Park is located just east of Bob Wentz Park and directly across from the Mansfield Dam Park. The closest marina is Marshall Ford Marina (south of the park).
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Lat/Long: 30.4145° N, 97.8869° W
Dock & Dine at Lake Travis’ Waterfront Restaurants
Ask anyone what the go-to restaurant is near Lake Travis, and you'll likely get the same response: The Oasis. Unfortunately not accessible by boat, just a quick car ride inland and you'll arrive at the 'Sunset Capital of Texas' (as it's belovedly been nicknamed). With indoor and outdoor seating, along with two stages of live entertainment, boaters taking a break from the lake won't be disappointed by the lively environment, the tasty menu, and the breathtaking sunset views.
The Oasis on Lake Travis
- Address: 6550 Comanche Trail, Austin, TX 78732
- Hours: Open Sun 11am-9pm; Mon-Fri 11:30am-9pm; Sat 11am-10pm
- Reservations: Do not accept reservations - first come, first served.
- Type of food: Baja-Tex-Mex style; Seafood; Starlight dining menu
- Dockage available: No - plan to arrive at least an hour before sunset to secure a table.
Beachside Billy's
- Address: 16107 FM2769 Suite D, Leander, TX 78641
- Hours: Open Wed-Thurs 4pm-9pm; Fri 11:30am-10pm; Sat 11am-10pm; Sun 11am-9pm, Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
- Reservations: No - not required
- Type of food: Variety; Beach bar; Burgers, Chicken, Sandwiches, Wings, Pizza
- Dockage available: Yes - restaurant is located at Volente Beach Resort & Waterpark
Sundancer Grill
- Address: 16410 Stewart Rd, Lakeway, TX 78734
- Hours: Open Mon-Thurs 11am-10pm; Fri 11am-11pm; Sat 9am-11pm; Sun 9am-10pm
- Reservations: No - not required
- Type of food: Casual; Salads, Sandwiches, Steak, Seafood; Weekend brunch specials
- Dockage available: Yes - courtesy dock on backside of Sail & Ski Yacht Club (use caution and watch for shallow water)
For additional options and information, read: 11 Best Restaurants on the Water in Austin, Texas.
Check Out Additional Lake Travis Boating Guides
Got questions?
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to rent a boat on Lake Travis?
The cost to rent a boat on Lake Travis starts at $89 per hour, depending on the amount of time that you would like to use the boat.
Do you need a boating license to rent a boat on Lake Travis?
No you do not need a boating license to rent a boat on Lake Travis. With Boatsetter you can rent a boat that includes a qualified captain so that you can relax and enjoy your time out on the water. If would like to drive the boat yourself you may need to take a local Boater Education course.
Can you swim in Lake Travis?
Lake Travis has hundreds of locations around the lake that are safe for swimming, hiking, kayaking, and more!
What makes Boatsetter different from other boat rental platforms?
What makes Boatsetter different is peace of mind. Boatsetter is the first and only boat rental marketplace to offer insurance on every peer-to-peer boat rental. We know choosing the right boat rental platform is essential to your experience while on the water. That's why we've gone the extra mile to focus on safety through our exclusive partnership with GEICO Marine and BoatUS. As the first and only boat rental marketplace to offer insurance on every peer-to-peer rental, you are protected during all rentals with insurance coverage and on-water assistance through TowBoatUS.
How to rent a boat on Boatsetter?
At Boatsetter, our mission is to make getting out on the water as easy as possible. With our intuitive booking system, you can rent a boat as soon as today. -First, you must determine your budget and the type of boat you want to rent. -Next, decide where you would like to boat and the kind of boat you would like to spend the day on. -Finally, determine if you will be needing a boat captain and reach out to the boat owner. That's it! You're officially on your way to a fantastic day out on the water.
How many people can fit on the boat rental?
The number of people who can fit on boat rental largely depends on the boat's size and how many life jackets are on board. Currently, the coast guard allows a maximum of 10-12 people on a Boatsetter boat rental.
How much does it cost to rent a yacht?
The cost of renting a yacht depends on the boat's size and the amount of time you'll use the yacht. The onboard amenities and luxurious accommodations also dictate the price. You can contact our yacht specialists for a custom quote by visiting: https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters
Can you rent a yacht in Lake Travis for the day?
Boatsetter allows you to rent a yacht for the day. Single-day yacht rentals are available for a select number of yachts. To chat with a yacht specialist please visit https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters
Can you rent a yacht for the week?
Boatsetter allows its customers to rent a yacht for the week. Renting a yacht for a week gives you more access to the wide range of yachts available on our platform. You can either book a rental directly through the site or connect with one of our charter specialists to plan your trip here: https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters
Can you rent a yacht for the month?
Booking a month-long yacht rental is a detailed and hands-off process when working with our team of yacht charter specialists. We tailor each boat charter to our client's specific wants and needs. Our luxury yacht charter specialists can be reached at (954) 715-4114 or by visiting https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters
How to rent a private yacht?
Renting a private yacht is a very detailed experience that caters to your exact needs while onboard one of our luxury yachts. To plan your private yacht rental experience please visit https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters
How much does it cost to rent a pontoon boat on Lake Travis?
The cost to rent a pontoon boat on Lake Travis starts at $79 per hour, depending on the amount of time that you would like to use the boat.
How much does it cost to charter a yacht?
The cost to charter a yacht varies depending on the boat size and the length of the charter. Prices typically range from less than $1,000 to $5,000 plus if you're wanting to charter the yacht overnight.
Do I need my own insurance to rent a boat?
You do not need boat insurance when renting with Boatsetter. Coverage is provided under the Peer-to-Peer Boat Rental Policy, which is underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company. The policy was written from the ground up as a stand-alone recreational boat rental insurance policy covering the period of time that the boat is being rented and is available for all non-commercially insured boats.
Does Boatsetter screen renters?
Yes. We use a system called Cognito to ensure that payment information matches the renter's identity. We also require renters taking out a captained boat to be at least 18 years old and on a bareboat to be at least 25 years old.
Is listing my boat on Boatsetter free?
Yes! Listing a boat is completely free. We only take a commission when your boat is rented. We only make money when you do!
What if I'm not comfortable having a renter drive my boat?
If you are not comfortable having a renter drive your boat, we have an expansive network of licensed and experienced captains. Once your boat is listed, you can filter through our network of captains and favorite captains in your area that you would like to operate your boat.
How much does it cost to rent a boat?
The cost to rent a boat depends on whether you are renting for a half-day or a full day, the boat features and the boat size can impact your boat rental price. Rental prices can range from $200 to $1,000 plus depending on the boat rental itself and the length of time of the rental.
Where is the Devil's Cove on Lake Travis?
The Devils Cove is located on the northshore of the lake and east of the smaller Mossy Hollow.
What is the deepest part of Lake Travis?
210 feet
Top boat rental reviews in Lake Travis, TX
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5/5 stars -
5/5 stars
The boat was as-new and the owners couldn't have been better to deal with. Great experience. Highly recommend.
RIchard
Nov 2022 -
5/5 stars
Great communication & awesome boat!
Elena
Nov 2022 -
5/5 stars
Anthony is amazing! Great communication and super helpful and friendly. We had a great time!
Sarah
Nov 2022 -
5/5 stars
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5/5 stars
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5/5 stars
Rose
Nov 2022 -
5/5 stars
Drew was a great captain, also great name
Drew
Oct 2022 -
5/5 stars
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5/5 stars
Boat was great, mark was very communicative and easy to work with. Would recommend!
Chip
Oct 2022 -
5/5 stars
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5/5 stars
Fun clean boat and great pickup location
saurav
Oct 2022
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