3 Hour Private Boat Charter on Lake Travis for up to 12 People

If you’re considering a day on Lake Travis, this 3-hour private boat charter might just be the ticket. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, from what I’ve gathered, it promises a blend of comfort, scenic views, and personalized service that many travelers find appealing. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a quiet escape on the water, this experience offers a flexible, intimate alternative to crowded cruise options.

What really draws me to this tour is its private setting—no noisy crowds, just your group, the water, and a captain who acts as your guide. Plus, if you’re over 21, you’re allowed to bring your own drinks, which makes it an easygoing, laid-back way to enjoy the day. That said, the cost of about $540 for up to 12 people might seem steep at first glance, but considering the exclusivity and luxury, many will see it as a worthwhile splurge.

One thing to keep in mind is the weather dependency—bad weather cancels the trip, and you’ll need to reschedule or get a full refund. Also, while the tour is family-friendly, the focus on relaxing drinking and socializing means it’s best suited for groups who want a chill vibe rather than an adventure-packed outing. This tour shines for groups who value privacy, comfort, and a scenic, customizable day on Lake Travis.

Key Points

• Private experience: No crowds, personalized route, and your own group.
• Ideal for celebrations: Perfect for bachelor/bachelorette parties or special gatherings.
• Flexible timing: Choose from various departure times to suit your schedule.
• Landmark stops: Visit Devil’s Cove, Starnes Island, and Point Venture with commentary from your captain.
• All-inclusive: The price covers the boat, captain, and access to beautiful scenery.
• Weather aware: Cancellations happen if weather isn’t cooperating.

An In-Depth Look at the Lake Travis Private Boat Tour

What’s Included in the Experience

This 3-hour private boat is run by Float On, a company renowned for its top-notch service and well-maintained boats. For about $540, your group (up to 12 people) gets exclusive use of a boat, a captain who knows the area well, and the flexibility to relax, socialize, or sightsee. The booking process is straightforward, with multiple times to choose from, so you can plan your outing at a time that suits you best.

One of the biggest perks? This isn’t a “one size fits all” cruise. Since it’s private, you can tailor your experience—perhaps focus on relaxing, sightseeing, or even partying. If you’re of legal drinking age, bringing your own alcohol turns the trip into a laid-back celebration.

What the Itinerary Looks Like

While the exact route can vary depending on your preferences and the captain’s recommendations, here are the highlights you might expect:

Stop 1: Lake Travis
This is the main attraction. Known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic limestone shores, Lake Travis is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. The water quality is excellent, and the scenery is undeniably beautiful. Many reviews mention how the views of luxury homes and rugged cliffs make for memorable photo ops. Because the lake is so expansive, your captain can showcase the best spots without the hustle of larger tour boats.

Stop 2: Devil’s Cove
A highlight for many, this cove is famous for party scenes. Its reputation as the place to be for epic gatherings is well-earned. The sheltered waters and accessible shoreline make it an ideal spot for swimming or just hanging out on the boat. If you’re looking to soak in the lively atmosphere, this stop hits the mark.

Stop 3: Starnes Island
This island is a well-known landmark—filmed in “Spy Kids” and also called Monkey Island or Snake Island by locals. Significantly, it’s the site of Lake Travis’s popular 4th of July fireworks. The island offers a striking backdrop for photos and a chance to experience the “island vibe” without leaving the lake. Many reviews mention the convenience of visiting here, especially since it’s a favorite anchorage for party boats.

Stop 4: Point Venture
A short, relaxing stop at a sandy beach where you can dip your toes or splash around in shallow water. It’s a great way to cool down or take a break from touring. The calm waters here are perfect for a quick breather before heading back.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

Multiple reviews emphasize how smooth and accommodating the process is. One reviewer described their boat as “super clean and comfortable, much more like a luxury cruise,” which suggests a high level of maintenance and comfort. Captains like Rob and Alex get special mentions—they’re friendly, knowledgeable, and focus on making your day special.

People love the ability to extend their trip by an extra hour or customize stops based on their mood. The sound system and lily pads on some boats add a fun, laid-back vibe—perfect for relaxing or small parties.

What Are People Saying?

One reviewer pointed out that “the boat was super clean and comfortable,” and this is a common theme—guests appreciate the quality of the boat. The convenience of the marina, along with the captains’ local knowledge, earns high praise. Several reviews mention how easy it was to get onto the boat and how helpful the staff is, making the whole process stress-free.

Another recurring sentiment is the value of the private experience. Since most other tours tend to be larger and crowded, having a vessel all to yourself means you can go at your own pace and avoid noisy or crowded spots. That’s a big plus if you’re looking for a relaxed day with friends or family.

Practical Considerations

The price of $540 for up to 12 people might seem costly initially, but when you split it among your group, it’s quite reasonable. On a per-person basis, it often ends up being a good deal for the privacy and luxury you get. Plus, since alcohol is allowed (for those 21+), you can bring your own drinks, snacks, and music, making it a customizable party on the water.

The duration of about 3 hours strikes a nice balance—enough time to see several spots, relax, and take photos without feeling rushed. However, keep in mind that the trip is weather-dependent: if poor weather hits, it’s canceled or rescheduled.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits groups looking for a private, relaxed outing—perfect for celebrations like bachelor or bachelorette parties, birthdays, or reunions. It’s well-suited for those who want to avoid the busy crowds of larger cruises and prefer a more personalized, comfortable setting. If you’re okay with bringing your own drinks and want a flexible schedule, this tour fits the bill. Families with older children who can enjoy a peaceful boat ride might also find it appealing, especially if they’re looking for a scenic, laid-back day.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour on Lake Travis offers a comfortable, customizable way to enjoy one of Texas’s most beautiful lakes. With the promise of excellent guides, stunning scenery, and the freedom to relax or party, it’s a solid choice for groups wanting a memorable day on the water. The high ratings and numerous positive reviews speak to the quality and consistency of the experience.

While it’s not the cheapest outing, the exclusivity and flexibility make it a worthwhile splurge for those wanting to celebrate, chill, or simply explore Lake Travis in style. If you’re after a peaceful, scenic, and private day with friends or family, this tour has a lot to offer.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you plenty of time to see key spots and relax.

Can I bring alcohol?
Yes, if you are 21 or over, you’re welcome to bring your own alcohol to enjoy on the boat.

What stops are included?
The itinerary typically includes Lake Travis itself, Devil’s Cove, Starnes Island, and Point Venture—each offering unique scenery and ambiance.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 12 people can join for this private experience, making it ideal for small groups.

What if the weather is bad?
The trip is weather-dependent; if the weather isn’t suitable, your booking can be canceled or rescheduled with a full refund.

How do I book?
You can choose from various times and book directly through the provider, Float On, with straightforward confirmation and easy instructions for pickup.

If you’re after a relaxed, private day on Lake Travis with friends, this tour seems like a pretty solid option—especially if you love scenic views, personalized service, and the freedom to set your own pace.