Exploring the serene waters of Lake Austin at sunset is a must-do activity for visitors and locals alike. The Sunset Boat Tour offers an affordable and flexible way to experience this picturesque setting. Departing from the conveniently located Austin Rental Boats, the tour accommodates up to 15 passengers and allows them to bring their own beverages, making it a budget-friendly option for group outings or special celebrations. With live music and stunning views, this relaxing adventure promises an unforgettable evening on the lake.
Good To Know
- The sunset boat tour on Lake Austin offers stunning views and live music from Ski Shore Cafe, priced at $39 per person.
- Guests can enjoy bottled water, a cooler, and ice provided on the tour, which departs from Austin Rental Boats under the Loop 360 Bridge.
- Minors must be 21 or older to consume alcohol, and children 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
- Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, and there is an option to reserve now and pay later.
- The tour has an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 65 reviews, with guests appreciating the relaxing experience and beautiful views.
Tour Overview and Highlights
The Sunset Boat Tour of Lake Austin offers visitors a unique and picturesque way to experience the city’s natural beauty.
The tour includes a sunset boat ride, with stunning views of Mount Bonnell, the Lake House of Matthew McConaughey, and the "Little Venice" area featuring luxurious mansions.
Guests can enjoy live music from the Ski Shore Cafe and take in panoramic sunset vistas.
Priced at $39 per person, the tour has a maximum capacity of 15 travelers and lasts for the duration of the boat travel time.
Bottled water, a cooler, and ice are provided, and gratuities are included.
Find more activities and experiences we've covered in Austin.
Inclusions and Meeting Details
Bottled water, a cooler, and ice are provided for guests on the Sunset Boat Tour of Lake Austin.
The tour departs from the Austin Rental Boats location, directly under the Loop 360 Bridge. To access the park, a $5 cash-only entry fee per person is required.
- The tour starts at 5:30 PM and returns to the meeting point.
- Gratuities for the captain are included in the tour price.
- The meeting point is easily accessible, but parking is limited, so a rideshare or Uber is recommended.
- Children 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult, and service animals are allowed.
Participant Guidelines
Minors must be at least 21 years old to consume alcohol on the Sunset Boat Tour of Lake Austin. Children 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is stroller accessible, but not wheelchair accessible. Service animals are permitted, however, infants must sit on laps.
Accessibility | Children | Alcohol | Service Animals | Infants |
---|---|---|---|---|
Stroller | 13+ | 21+ | Allowed | Lap |
Not Wheelchair | Accompanied | Prohibited | – | – |
Rideshare or Uber is recommended due to limited parking availability at the meeting point.
Cancellation and Booking Information
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled Sunset Boat Tour of Lake Austin.
Confirmation is provided at the time of booking. Customers have the option to Reserve Now and Pay Later for added convenience.
The tour’s cancellation policy offers flexibility, allowing guests to adjust their plans if needed.
Key cancellation and booking details:
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior
- Confirmation received at time of booking
- Reserve Now and Pay Later option available
- Flexible cancellation policy
- Booking confirmation provided
Customer Reviews and Experiences
The Sunset Boat Tour of Lake Austin has an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 65 customer reviews.
Guests praise the relaxing experience, knowledgeable and friendly captains, beautiful views, and enjoyable live music.
However, some note the additional $5 park entry fee wasn’t well communicated. Captains’ knowledge and friendliness also varied.
The tour is highly recommended for a unique perspective of Austin, especially for family outings and special occasions.
The budget-friendly price of $39 per person makes it an accessible option for those seeking a scenic sunset cruise on Lake Austin.
Prepare for Your Sunset Boat Tour
Although the Sunset Boat Tour of Lake Austin is a budget-friendly experience at $39 per person, there are a few additional details to keep in mind when preparing for your cruise.
First, you’ll need to bring $5 in cash per person for the park entry fee. This is a separate charge not included in the tour price.
Dress comfortably in layers, as the weather on the lake can be cooler than on land.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses to enhance your viewing experience.
If you plan to enjoy adult beverages, remember this is a BYOB tour.
Finally, arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth departure.
What to Bring and Wear
What should you bring and wear for the Sunset Boat Tour of Lake Austin? Pack light and practical.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect against the sun. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes as the boat deck can be slippery.
You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and beverages, but the tour includes bottled water and a cooler with ice. Don’t forget to bring cash for the $5 park entry fee.
While the tour is relaxed, avoid overly casual attire. Dress for the weather and be prepared to get a bit breezy on the open water.
Following these simple tips will ensure you have an enjoyable and memorable sunset cruise.
Tips for an Unforgettable Experience
To make the most of your Sunset Boat Tour of Lake Austin, consider these tips.
Arrive early to secure parking and pay the $5 park access fee.
Bring a small cooler with your favorite snacks and beverages – the tour allows BYOB.
Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and light layers as the weather can change quickly on the water.
Listen closely to the captain’s insights about the local landmarks and wildlife.
And most importantly, sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning sunset views over the lake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, the tour allows passengers to bring their own food and drinks. The inclusions mention a cooler and ice are provided, so guests can bring a picnic or beverages to enjoy during the scenic sunset cruise.
Are There Any Restrictions on the Type of Alcohol I Can Bring?
Yes, you can bring your own alcoholic beverages on the tour, but there are some restrictions. Glass containers aren’t allowed, and the tour operator recommends limiting consumption for safety reasons.
How Often Do the Boats Depart for the Sunset Tour?
The boats depart for the sunset tour once per day, with the tour starting at 5:30 PM. Guests should arrive at the meeting point by this time to ensure they don’t miss the departure.
Is There an Opportunity to Swim or Get off the Boat During the Tour?
The tour does not allow for swimming or getting off the boat during the experience. It’s a continuous cruise focused on sightseeing and enjoying the sunset views from the water. Passengers must remain on the boat for the duration of the tour.
Can I Make Special Requests for the Captain or Musical Entertainment?
While passengers can’t make special requests for the captain or music, the tour allows flexibility. Guests should inquire about any customization options when booking to ensure the experience meets their preferences.
The Sum Up
The Sunset Boat Tour of Lake Austin is a budget-friendly and memorable experience. With stunning views, live music, and a BYOB policy, it’s perfect for family outings or special occasions. Guests can relax and enjoy the picturesque scenery, making this tour an unforgettable adventure on the water.
More Tour Reviews in Austin
Looking for something different? Other Austin activities we've written about
- Virtual Reality in Austin Tx
- Taylor Tirade Scavenger Hunt
- Private Burlesque Party for Up to 10 People at soFly Social ATX
- Guided Private Electric Pedicab Tour of Austin
- Public Party Bike Pub Crawl Tour in Austin
- Sushi Making Class for Beginners in Austin
- Austin SoCo Private Walking Food Tours With Secret Food Tours
- Austin E-Bike Rentals
- Brewery 5K Fun Run, BBQ, and Texas History Museum in Austin
- Austin Explorer: A Vibrant USA Heritage Walk
- Private Pedal Pub Tour in Austin
- The Heist Escape Room in Austin