Frequently Asked Questions
From Lake Travis policies to Lake Austin logistics, we answer common questions so you can book with confidence and enjoy a smooth, stress-free experience.
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Boat Rental Information
What comes with the boat rental?
Each boat comes with an experienced captain, gas, a premium Bluetooth sound system, a large floating mat, floaties, safety devices, a large cooler filled with ice (for $20 Addl.), and more!
Where is the pick up location?
We are a commercially insured charter business. Therefore we only have a few options to pick up your party as there are many rules and regulations on the lakes. For Lake Travis the pick up location is Mansfield Dam Park, and for Lake Austin the pick up location is Loop 360 Boat Ramp. Please bring $5 cash for each person to enter the parks to access the boat docks. If you’re staying on an Airbnb on the lake, own a house on the lake, or have a private dock that we are allowed to access we can possibly pick up your group there as long as you make an arrangement with us.
Transportation and Arrival
What's the best transportation method?
We recommend your group plans ahead and takes a rideshare! Big Tex is an affiliate for Fetii and we have a promo code to get 25% off on your next trip! Fetii utilizes a network of 15 passenger transit vans that eliminates the need for groups on the move to split into multiple vehicles. You can use our promo code whenever you would like, not just to the lake, but around Austin as well! Use the code “BIGTEX25” for 25% off!
What should I bring on the boat?
Ice, towels, sunscreen, cups, sunglasses, food, drinks (expect to share), $5 cash per person, and please bring water to stay hydrated.
What should I "NOT" bring on the boat?
Please refrain from bringing any glass, Styrofoam, glitter, messy food, or bad attitudes! Everyone on the lake is here to have a good time and enjoy themselves.
Can we bring alcoholic drinks?
Yes, absolutely bring your own drinks. Just please refrain from bringing red wine as it can stain the seats and carpet if spilt. Glass beer bottles are not allowed on the Lake, please try to bring cans and plastic if possible.
Where can I park my car for my Lake Travis adventure?
We’ve got two pick-up locations to make your trip a breeze! Our main spot is at Paradise Cove Marina (17141 Rocky Ridge rd., Austin, TX 78734). They have plenty of parking and charge a fee of $5 per person to enter the marina, plus $20 per vehicle for parking (your awesome crew included!).
Our other option is Mansfield Dam. This is a cash-only location with a $5 per person entrance fee to the park itself. Keep in mind that we only have one boat picking up from Mansfield Dam at this time, so be sure to confirm your pick-up spot when you book your unforgettable Big Tex experience!
Boat Operation and Experience
Is there a captain fee?
A mandatory 20% captain fee is required for all charters. This may be:
- Pre-paid during booking, or
- Paid directly to the captain at the end of the trip
The captain fee is calculated based on:
- Hourly rental rate
- Add-ons (excluding taxes and booking fees)
- Additional tips are not required, but always appreciated.
What’s the appropriate tip for my captain?
The typical tip is around 20%, though the final amount is entirely up to you and should reflect your experience. For watersports bookings or groups exceeding 10 people, a 20% gratuity is mandatory and must be paid directly to the captain at the end of your reservation via Venmo, cash, or Zelle.
Do you need a boating license? Can I drive the boat? Are the boat captains experienced?
No you can not drive the boat. For your safety and for insurance purposes, only Big Tex captains are allowed to drive and operate the vessel. All of Big Tex’s captains have their Texas boating license, Party Boat licenses, are trained, and have many hours of experience. Each of the captains are very familiar with the lakes and the boats they are captaining.
Do you allow pets on the boat?
Yes, you can bring your well behaved furry friend with you. Just contact us before the trip so we can accommodate your dog or service animal. Make sure it has a life jacket as well.
Can I bring some festive decorations for my boat trip?
Absolutely! We want your time on the water to be as celebratory as possible. Balloons and other decorations are a-ok, so go ahead and deck out the boat to match your lakeside fun.
Just a heads-up: While we love a little sparkle, glitter can be messy and stick around long after the party’s over. So, we kindly ask that you leave the glitter at home for the sake of keeping our boats looking their best!
Rental Costs & What's Included
Do I need to bring a cooler?
No, We provide a large Yeti cooler filled with ice for your drinks for an additional $20.
Do we need to pay for gas?
Gas is included in the hourly rate. Unless, we are traveling over 20 miles by boat or bringing the boats to a different lake for you. If we are bringing the boat to a different lake other than Lake Austin or Lake Travis there will be a small fee.
Weather and Cancellation Policy
What if it rains?
Big Tex Boat Rentals operates rain or shine and only cancels when we determine conditions are unsafe.
- We do not cancel based on forecasts alone, decisions are made on the day & start time of your
trip, based on the conditions on the lake during your reservation time (not before or after). - Unsafe conditions may include severe thunderstorms, high winds, lightning, or other hazards.
- Light rain, cloudy skies, warm winds, or intermittent showers are not unsafe and will not result in
cancellation. - If conditions require, we may adjust start times or shorten the trip for safety. If shortened, you will
only be charged for time used.
If we cancel your trip for safety: - You may receive a full refund (minus non-refundable booking fee), or
- Reschedule for another available date at no charge.
Final decision to operate or cancel is at the sole discretion of Big Tex Boat Rentals
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations are based on how far in advance you notify us:
• 15+ days before your trip: Full refund of your deposit minus a 6% booking fee
• 14–9 days before: $100 cancellation fee + 6% booking fee
• 8–3 days before: 50% of the total will be charged + 6% booking fee
• Within 72 hours: No cancellations permitted, 100% of the total will be charged
To cancel, contact us via email (info@bigtexboatrentals.com) or phone call
(512-680-9102)
Food, Drinks & Delivery
How far in advance should I place my order for drinks and party essentials to be delivered to my boat?
To ensure timely delivery and that everything is chilled and ready for your Lake Austin or Lake Travis cruise, please place your order at least 72 hours in advance.
Is there a discount available for the delivery service fee?
Yes, you can enjoy $25 off your delivery fee when you use the discount code ” BigTexBoatRentals “.
Have Question?
If you didn’t find what you were looking for, feel free to reach out. Our team is happy to help.