Lakeway Marina - Boat Rentals, Party Barges, Slips & More on Lake Travis

Recommendation: Plan a short, well-timed outing that starts with a drive to the city marinas, where you handle entry formalities and drop gear into secure storage. Gather several friends, choose a reliable rental craft, and map a simple route to explore shallow coves and white-capped bays before conditions shift.

To maximize value, compare a handful of marinas with easy entry ramps and clear storage options; in several seasons the amount of craft available fluctuates, so book ahead and aim for a short time window with favorable winds. Look for watercraft that offer flexible options, including crewed or self-guided styles, even for first-timers.

Enthusiasts should respect shallow edges, test braking and turning near docks, and avoid hollow wakes that can surprise riders. If conditions become difficult, shorten the trip and head for a sheltered cove.

Steps to plan: pick a city corridor with several marinas within a short drive, check weather forecasts, confirm entry points, and reserve storage lockers where allowed. For an on-water base, nearby campgrounds provide a natural extension; you can live aboard briefly and reduce travel time.

Just before launch, verify entry permissions, keep the plan concise, and share the route with friends. This approach keeps risk low and enjoyment high.

For longer stays, explore campgrounds along the shoreline that offer easy access to marina facilities; a sensible amount of gear can be stored in storage lockers, and enthusiasts can explore different cove areas while maintaining safety distance.

Lakeway Marina Guide

As requested, book a weekend dock space at least 72 hours in advance to secure prime lakefront berthing and minimize wait times. Arrive 15 minutes before check-in to keep the flow smooth and ensure gear is staged near the road for convenient loading.

Open availability is shown in the scheduling portal; the fleet includes equipped craft with a bimini shade, ideal for hot mornings, and each model can accommodate groups of 12–24, depending on configuration.

Prices vary by craft type and season; members often receive 10–15% discounts, with summer mornings commanding a slight premium. Request the latest prices sheet to compare options before committing.

For active days, add kayaking and skis to your plan; morning sessions run 2–3 hours, with amazing water, gorgeous views, and light winds. A network of paths along the shore makes it easy to explore nearby coves on foot or by bike.

Devils Cove is a popular anchor spot, offering photogenic scenery and easy access to the lakefront route. The surrounding area features beauty and clearly marked routes that help you navigate without fuss.

Parking and entry are convenient along the main road, and staff can accommodate last-minute requests for equipment or extra life vests within minutes of inquiry.

All craft arrive equipped with safety gear; some include a slide for extra action on warm days. For gear like paddles or additional vests, check the dockside desk at the near pier, like you would in a busy harbor environment.

To maximize your visit, follow the gorgeous shoreline routes, reserve a morning slot to beat the crowds, and invite your friends for a memorable cruise. If you need the best timing, taking action now will lock in the reservation today; this setup delivers beauty and quick access in minutes.

Available Boat Types and Typical Hourly Rates

Start with an 8-person pontoon for groups that want together time, shade from a bimini, a built-in cooler, and safe walkways to the bow; the body of water around the lakeway area makes it easy to escape to quieter coves, and typical rates are about $140–$180/hour, with a guided captain add-on $60–$90/hour for local insights and to catch beautiful sunsets over traviss point.

Smaller watercraft include open-runabouts for 4–6 passengers at roughly $100–$160/hour, and deck craft for 8–12 with larger lounging space at $150–$230/hour. Most options come with a bimini top for sun protection; you can add skis or wake toys for $20–$40/hour. Which option best fits your crew?

Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards provide the most affordable choices: single kayak $25–$40/hour, tandem $40–$60/hour. Life jackets are included; dry bags and coolers are available for an extra $5–$10/hour. For Decker point and nearby locations, many customers book 2–3 hour blocks to maximize relaxing time on the water.

Rates vary by location and season, with midweek deals in the lower season; weekends and events tend to push prices higher. To keep costs predictable, plan a 2–4 hour window, bring a cooler and drinks, and reserve in advance for peak times; both members and user groups can reserve together, and you’ll find additional locations along walkways and docks for easy access to launches.

Hourly vs Full-Day Rentals: Planning Your Lake Travis Trip

Begin with a four-hour rental to test handling in the basin and gauge pace; if you’re hosting a gathering with guests for a longer stretch, switch to a full-day plan for better value and a smoother flow.

Hourly rental: when it makes sense

• Duration typically ranges from 2 to 4 hours, measured in minutes, with flexible start times that accommodate a friday window or weekend plans.
• Vessel options include agile runabouts, ideal for short hops and quick coves exploration; a cooler and basic safety gear are usually allowed on board.
• Great for vacationers or small groups who want to pace the day, make a couple of stops, and stay within a fixed budget or amount of time.
• Parking is generally convenient near the dock area, but you’ll want to arrive early there to secure a spot during peak periods.
• Costs stay lower upfront, making it a practical choice while you test routes and specific destinations within the basin.

Full-day rental: why choose

• Extended windows, commonly 8 to 10 hours, deliver more minutes on the water and better overall value for longer excursions and events with multiple guests.
• Long-term planning is easier, since you’ll have a single vessel for the day, reducing the need for multiple reservations and transitions.
• Guided itineraries can be arranged, including Steiner-guided routes, to maximize time in scenic coves and floating platforms without missing key stops.
• Plenty of time for on-water lunches, a cooler break, and onshore pauses at convenient shorelines; parking remains available in most setups, with longer blocks often resulting in fewer resets.
• For groups aiming to host a longer outing, a full-day option generally provides the best value while keeping guests engaged and comfortable.

Steps to decide

1. Define the core goal: quick spins around the basin, a few coves, or a full-day social agenda with several stops.
2. Assess the guest count and comfort level with watercraft; runabouts suit smaller crews, while larger groups may benefit from a single full-day plan.
3. Pick a time block that aligns with your schedule; consider friday or weekend slots when availability is highest, yet traffic on the water can be heavier.
4. Estimate on-water time versus onshore breaks; factor in a possible lunch, picnic, or cooler-filled pause to keep energy up.
5. Confirm availability and weather windows; secure the rental that matches your preferred duration within the available day parts.

Practical tips: bring a lightweight cooler, plan parking logistics in advance, and map a couple of floating stops to minimize idle minutes. If you’re new to the area, starting with a short test run can save time later, while seasoned vacationers often benefit from a guided full-day plan that covers the most scenic basins and coves with minimal backtracking.

Party Barge Details: Capacity, Amenities, and Onboard Rules

Recommendation: Choose a vessel sized for your group to move freely and complete the experience; for 25–40 guests, a mid-size unit with shaded seating is ideal; for larger groups, split into two smaller crafts or reserve a dual-deck model.

Capacity specifics: Typical day-charter allows up to 40 guests on board; for comfortable socializing, cap at 30 adults plus children, with 2 crew and one captain overseeing safety and navigation.

Amenities you should expect: cushioned seating, shaded canopies, dry storage, a dedicated cooler with ice, a food-prep space, and a compact stereo system; ensure there is a non-slip deck and accessible life jackets for all guests.

Onboard rules: safety first; life jackets must be worn when advised and returned after use; no glass containers, no smoking, and no diving. Keep noise within public-friendly levels; limit alcohol to approved beverages and drink responsibly at all times; guests must follow the captain's directions during docking and undocking.

Operational guidelines: check-in occurs 15–30 minutes before departure; boarding at the dock with proper handrails; movement across paths and decks should be deliberate; before shifting power or changing routes, obtain captain approval; docking points at lago locations require smooth approach.

Fishing and angling: anglers are allowed only with captain permission and in designated zones; bring your own gear and request to fish near lago point locations; avoid casting near wakes or other vessels to reduce the risk of lines crossing or tangling with guests.

Crew and planning support: experienced captains handle navigation and safety; steiner offers event-planning coordination; subscriber members often receive early access and discounts for weekday trips and group requests.

Camping and uses: this craft is designed for daytime events and sightseeing; camping onboard is not permitted, but shore camping at lago locations is common for those extending a stay; use the paths and docks to access public locations during this outing; vacation mood can be enhanced by reaching a dedicated lago point.

Key advantages and notes: choosing a design with flexible layouts provides more move space than fixed setups; schedule adjustments during difficult weather are smoother when you stay in touch with the crew and check locations before departure; this choice gives an advantage for a complete experience.

Slip Rentals: Dock Access, Utilities, and Nearby Facilities

Opt for a covered dock with 30A/50A electrical service and potable water hookups to simplify plan for this saturday's adventures. Proximity to the point where creeks meet the main channel offers a sheltered backdrop and quick access for launching, fueling, and stowing gear for boating.

Verify pump-out accessibility, metered electricity, and potable water, plus convenient restrooms and showers within easy reach. Some sites offer a sheltered lounge and a small gear cabinet to keep chests safe, with easy access for maintenance and quick checks before you head back out.

Nearby facilities include fueling options, parking, and friendly staff who can brief you on local creeks, safe routes, and where to stage gear before the next outing. If scuba adventures are planned, check depth marks and currents before entering deeper sections.

Before departure, perform a quick engine check and battery test; store valuables in secure chests; pack vests and signaling gear; plan to escape sudden weather by staying close to shore. This approach minimizes challenges and keeps you having fun on the water.

From a marketing perspective, the advantage of offering covered docks with reliable utilities is clear to groups seeking amazing experiences. This setup supports exploring creeks and point-to-point trips, with a sunset backdrop providing a stunning scene. Having a proven plan makes saturday outings easy, where you can indulge in action and adventures, and friendly crews help prevent common issues.

Reservation Process: How to Book, Deposits, and Cancellations

To secure a fun-filled waterfront outing, define purpose and group size first, then select a watercraft type that matches what you want to do–kayaking, cruising, or a celebration on a double-decker deck. Decide between floating docks and fixed berths, and check availability for your preferred date, including potential Monday slots. Then proceed with a rental deposit to hold the action, keeping the process convenient for guests and hosts alike.

What you need is clear: dates, number of participants, activity preferences, and a lodging plan for the shore-side basins and basin communities. If you plan to take a larger group, look for options ranging from compact single-hulls to larger multi-berth vessels that can touch shores and floating docks. Also consider what works best for swimming and kayaking breaks, so you can catch a good balance between action and rest, and take advantage of waters near the docks and shores.

Under the terms, deposits keep your space secured: typically 25–50% of the rental price, depending on duration, vessel size, and season. The remaining balance is due 7–14 days prior to the outing. Have a backup date in mind to simplify scheduling if your preferred slot is taken, and keep your payment details ready to avoid delays for your guests.

Cancellation terms are designed to protect your plans: if canceled more than 14 days before the start, you’ll often receive a full or near-full refund; 7–14 days before, a partial refund; within 7 days, refunds may not be available. Always review the contract for any exceptions tied to peak periods or multi-vessel charters in shore communities, and note any rebooking options you can use to keep your plans moving smoothly.

Safety, Insurance, and Operator Requirements

Mandatory: a USCG‑certified captain must be aboard every watercraft, and a concise safety briefing must be completed before launch.

Equip each vessel with USCG‑approved life vests for every passenger and carry a throwable device (Type IV) on craft longer than 16 feet; include a basic first‑aid kit, a fire extinguisher, a signaling horn or whistle, a flashlight, and a compact tool kit; perform a pre‑departure check of engine, steering, and fuel systems; ensure all occupants wear vests while underway, with special attention to children and non‑swimmers.

Operator credentials: the skipper should hold a current USCG master license or an appropriate state permit for the vessel size, or operate under direct supervision of a licensed captain; for smaller craft, a qualified helper may assist under local rules with oversight; require a live safety briefing and a hands‑on demonstration of helm and throttle controls before departure.

Insurance and planning: minimum liability coverage should be approximately $1,000,000 per incident; obtain a certificate of insurance showing policy terms, limits, and expiration date and provide it to the organizer prior to launch; verify that coverage remains in force for the entire outing; consider additional protection for equipment and medical costs, and discuss who handles claims before the trip.

Trip safety and etiquette: use marked channels and keep clear of congested public launch zones; plan a scenic route along the shore with options offering stop‑offs at coves and scenic overlooks for photography and nature viewing; estimate the route length in miles and schedule a return time to avoid being away too long; on saturday mornings, start early to take advantage of calmer water and lighter traffic; provide a simple plan and share it with all vacationers, including a back‑up route in case weather shifts recedes from the forecast; reinforce three main points: pre‑departure briefing, proper vest usage, and engine shut‑off procedure to prevent accidents during wake generation on water sports enthusiasts’ routes.

Safety culture: make the most of opportunities to live and relax on the water while respecting the gorgeous outdoors and camping ecosystems nearby; maintain convenient access to shore facilities and walkways for quick patient evacuations or rest breaks; keep a value‑driven approach by documenting a safety checklist, updating it after each trip, and training staff to handle engine failures, medical incidents, and weather alerts, ensuring minimal disruption for vacationers and their families.