Why Big Tex Boat Rentals
See how Big Tex compares to average boat rental companies and why more people choose us for a smoother, more flexible lake experience.
Why Big Tex Boat Rentals
Average Rentals vs Big Tex
Most boat rentals promise a great day on the water. Too often, they deliver confusion, hidden details, and last-minute stress. Between unreliable listings, unclear rules, and inconsistent service, planning a boat day can quickly become more work than it should be.
Big Tex Boat Rentals was built to eliminate those problems entirely.
Common Rental Problems
- Outdated listing & missing details
- Hidden fees & unclear pricing
- Inexperienced & random captains
- Lack of quality control
- No support when you need it
- 4-hour minimum rentals only
- Limited scheduling options
- Pay for time you don’t need
The Big Tex Difference
- Premium, well-maintained boats
- Transparent rates & all-inclusive
- Pro captains on every charter
- Local lake experts
- Dedicated Customer Support
- 2-hour minimum rentals available
- Flexible extensions in 0.5-hour increments
- Customize your time on the water
We do not believe your lake day should feel like a gamble. With Big Tex, everything is designed to be clear, reliable, and dialed in from the moment you book to the moment you dock. The result is a smoother experience, a better atmosphere, and a boat day that lives up to the hype.
Why Big Tex Boat Rentals
A better lake day starts with clarity, flexibility, and a team you can trust.
Planning a day on the water should feel exciting, not overwhelming. Yet many boat rental experiences are filled with last-minute surprises that take the fun out of the day.
Big Tex Boat Rentals was built to eliminate those frustrations. We focus on what actually matters. From the moment you book to the moment you return to the dock, everything is designed to feel smooth, reliable, and stress-free.
Below, you’ll find a side-by-side comparison that clearly shows how Big Tex differs from the average rental company and why more customers choose us for their time on the water.
Austin Trusts Big Tex
TRUSTED PARTNERS
Happy Customers
WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY
Commonly Asked Questions
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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, and more!
Where is the pick up location?
We are a commercially insured charter business with limited pick-up locations due to lake regulations. Lake Travis pick-ups are at Mansfield Dam Park or Paradise Cove Marina (fees apply), and Lake Austin pick-ups are at the Loop 360 Boat Ramp ($5 cash per person).
If you have a private dock or are staying on the lake, a pick-up may be arranged with prior notice.
Why is there a 6% charge for online bookings?
When booking online, a 6% processing fee is applied to cover additional platform and transaction costs. To avoid this charge, you can save by booking directly with us over the phone. Call us at (512) 680-9102 to make your reservation.
How much should I tip my captain?
A 20% gratuity (or captain fee) is required and must be paid directly to the captain by the end of your boat charter. Payment options include cash, Venmo, Zelle, or CashApp. If you did not prepay the gratuity during your reservation, please ensure it is settled at the end of the charter.
Do you need a boating license? Can I drive the boat? Are the boat captains experienced?
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”.
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 allowed, so feel free to decorate the boat for your lake day.
Please note: while decorations are welcome, glitter is not permitted, as it is difficult to clean and can damage the boats. We appreciate your help in keeping our fleet in great condition.
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.
What's the best transportation method?
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!
Do I need to bring a cooler?
No, we provide a large yeti cooler filled with ice for your drinks free of charge.
Do we need to pay for gas?
Gas is included in the hourly rate. If we are bringing the boat to a different lake other than Lake Austin or Lake Travis there will be a small fee.
What is the cancellation policy?
If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, you can contact us before 7 days of your scheduled trip to receive a full refund. Cancellations within 7 days of the scheduled trip will result in a 50% charge upon the agreed total. Cancellations within 48 hours of your scheduled trip are not permitted and will result in 100% charge of the agreed upon total.
What if it rains?
The weather forecast will be carefully watched by our team. We do not cancel our trips based on weather forecasts. Trip cancellation is determined on the day of your rental reservation and only in unsafe or severe weather conditions. In the event we must cancel the boat reservation, you will receive a 100% refund or allowed to reschedule.