Lake Austin Private Pontoon: 4-Hour Boat Rental for Groups

Rent a pontoon for your group and float past Pennybacker Bridge and lakeside mansions

Rent a private pontoon boat on Lake Austin for 4 hours with a captain, accommodating up to 13 guests. The boat includes a foldable dual overhead canopy for sun protection, an Aqua Lily Pad for swimming, Bluetooth stereo, and cell phone charging. Depart from Loop 360 Boat Ramp just below the iconic Pennybacker Bridge, explore 22 miles of scenic shoreline, and return after an afternoon on the water.

The experience

The pontoon departs from Loop 360 Boat Ramp, a short drive from Downtown Austin, and stays out for 4 hours. A captain comes with the boat and handles the 140hp engine while you and up to 12 others settle in under the foldable dual overhead canopy: full or partial shade depending on how you position it. The boat carries life vests for everyone, including infants, and swimming is permitted whenever you want to jump into the clear, constant-level water.

Lake Austin stretches 22 miles along scenic shoreline lined with waterfront and cliffside homes, the exclusive Austin Country Club golf course, and popular restaurants. The Pennybacker Bridge rises above the water near your departure point and makes for the kind of photo that travels well on social media. You can also spot pro wakesurfers like Ashley Kidd and Raleigh Hager if they're out on the water. The Aqua Lily Pad floats alongside the boat for relaxing or playing, and the Bluetooth stereo lets you control the soundtrack. Cell phone charging keeps devices alive for the whole afternoon.

Food and non-glass alcoholic beverages are welcome aboard. There is no restroom on the boat, so use facilities before boarding. Your captain can arrange restroom breaks if needed. Arrive 30 minutes early for parking and entry at the boat ramp. On weekends, parking fills up quickly, so a ride share to the ramp is highly encouraged. A $5 park entry fee per person (cash only; $3 for ages 62+; free for ages 12 and under) is payable at the gate.

What’s included

• Foldable dual overhead canopy for full or partial sun protection.
• Aqua Lily Pad for swimming and relaxing.
• Bluetooth stereo system.
• Cell phone charging port.
• Life vests for all passengers including infants.
• Fuel.
• Captain.
• Use of the boat for 4 hours.

Before you book

Days and timesFriday to SundayDepartures at 11:15, 13:45 and 15:45

Book up to2h before

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Paid on siteUS$ 5

Prices and times updated 4 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortStroller-friendlyPets welcomeInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Wake Riderz Boat Rental Lake Austin

Is this one for you?Book this rental for groups up to 13 people who want to celebrate together: bachelor and bachelorette parties, birthdays, anniversaries, corporate outings or family reunions all fit the boat and the 4-hour window. The captain handles navigation and the boat's systems, so your group stays free to swim, eat, play music and take pictures without managing the engine or route.

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's included with the pontoon rental on Lake Austin?

The rental includes the captain, a foldable dual overhead canopy for sun protection, the Aqua Lily Pad, Bluetooth stereo, cell phone charging port, fuel, and life vests for all passengers including infants. Infants under 13 are required to wear a life vest at all times.

Can we swim in Lake Austin during the rental?

Yes, swimming is permitted during the rental. The water is clear and constant-level, and the Aqua Lily Pad gives you a place to float and relax. Just let your captain know when you want to swim.

What is Pennybacker Bridge and why is it worth photographing?

Pennybacker Bridge is the iconic limestone arch bridge that spans Lake Austin near the Loop 360 Boat Ramp where you depart. It's one of Austin's most recognizable landmarks and makes a striking backdrop for photos from the water.

Is alcohol allowed on the boat?

Yes, alcoholic beverages are permitted, but glass containers are prohibited. Food is also welcome aboard, so you can bring snacks and drinks for the group.

How early should we arrive before the rental starts?

Plan to arrive 30 minutes early for parking and entry at Loop 360 Boat Ramp. On weekends, parking is limited, so using a ride share service on Saturdays and Sundays is highly encouraged.