Capital Cruises

Internationally Famous Bat Watching Tour

Largest urban bat colony in the world

bat watching

Watch the bats emerge nightly on our Public Bat-Watching Tour, running from March through mid-November. Or customize a private excursion with dinner, cocktails, and more. See dinner cruise and party boat pricing for rates.

Guided Kayak Tours

Sightseeing tours, private events, capital cruises fleet.

austin tx riverboat tours

An experience like no other

Welcome to Capital Cruises

Deep in the heart of Austin, TX, we are proud to offer lunch and dinner cruises, wedding events, internationally famous bat-watching excursions, party boat services, and the ultimate alternative for group and corporate outings.

Where are you located?

We are on the boat dock at the lakeside of the Hyatt Regency Hotel. The Hyatt is located at 208 Barton Springs Road near the intersection of Congress and Barton Springs on the south side of Town Lake. Click here for Map and Directions .

Where can we park?

Unfortunately, there is very little free parking in the area. The Hyatt Regency does have a multi-level parking garage. Parking there should be $25.00 per vehicle for up to 3 hours, after which you may be subject to additional charges. Alternatively, you can typically pay to park at the surface lot adjacent to the hotel, though prices for this and other pay lots in the area may vary depending activities in the surrounding area. Both the Long Center for Performing Arts and Austin City Hall have large pay-parking structures and are a short walk from the dock. Also, One Texas Center off of Riverside Drive typically has available parking. Guests may drop off passengers at the front door of the hotel, but parking there is limited to 5 minutes. Please see map for directions .

When should we arrive?

For PRIVATE CRUISES, boarding time is usually 15 minutes in advance of departure (check with dock personnel for your specific cruise). For larger groups (~20 or more), we suggest telling your group to arrive 30 minutes prior to departure to allow for traffic or other possible delays. If our schedule permits, arrangements can be made for some members of your party to arrive earlier for set-up, decoration, etc. For PUBLIC CRUISES, check-in starts 30 minutes prior to departure. Reservations must be claimed no less than 15 minutes prior to departure, or they are no longer guaranteed, even if they are prepaid. Prepaid reservations are non-refundable unless the reservation was canceled at least 72 hours in advance.

See Austin like never before

featured@2x

Team Building

Parish Festival Band

Live Entertainment

Casino Night

Casino Night

Check out our

Popular Entertainment Add-on Packages

Expert crew members

Meet the Skippers

team-v1-1-3

Kevin Martin

Mike hardson, christine eve.

Our benefits

Why Choose Us

No hidden fees, maintenance of boats, experienced team, come see the spectacle of the world's largest urban bat colony stream from the bridge nightly..

News & Articles

Our Logbook

  • Josh Duggan

Donut Boats and Duffy Boats

Show your friends and family the best time on one of our motorized vessels that you can rent and operate yourselves!  First Donut Boats in Texas! The Donut Boat’s unique design seats up to 10 people around a center table, outfitted with a center-post umbrella to shade you while cruising Lady Bird Lake. The quiet […]

Our Brand New Website is Ready to Launch!

We’ve been working behind the scenes for the past few months, poring over every last detail, overhauling our website to best serve you, the customer. Just like the next cruise you book or boat you want to rent, we’re ecstatic to be launching this incarnation of CapitalCruises.com. Throughout the brand new site, you’ll find a […]

Now offering Guided Sunset Tours

Looking to kayak at sunset on the lake? Capital Cruises now offers a Guided Sunset Kayak Tour Thursdays through Saturday evenings. Cost is $40 per person and includes a ~1.5 hour tour. See the striking downtown skyline as well as a great view of the sunset cast against the lake. Thursday – Saturday evenings departing […]

Get a no obligation quote today

Leave a Rating for Lone Star Riverboat Sightseeing Tours

In order to verify you are a real person, we ask that you please fill out the form below.

Please choose a rating before submitting.

Austin City Guide Logo

View Our Content

Get in touch, connect with us.

  • Best Restaurants in Austin
  • Things To Do
  • Golf Courses
  • Best Bars in Austin

Lone Star Riverboat Sightseeing Tours logo

Lone Star Riverboat Sightseeing Tours

4.7 973 votes

208 Barton Springs Road

(512) 327-1388

About Lone Star Riverboat

austin tx riverboat tours

  • 1 hour tour
  • Reservations recommended
  • Departure time is approximately 30 minutes prior to sunset.
  • Departure times may vary, please call for the departure schedule.
  • 32' and 35' Electric cruisers
  • ADA compliant
  • Prices: Adults - $13, Seniors (60 and over) - $13, Children (12 and under) - $8, Children (2 and under) - Free
  • Saturday and Sunday - 12:30PM & 3:00PM
  • 1 hour narrated tour
  • ADA compliant 
  • Boarding begins 45 minutes before tour time. 
  • Prices: Adults - $13, Seniors (60 and over) - $11, Children (12 and under) - $8, Children (2 and under) - Free
  • Friday - 10:30PM
  • 1 hour scenic tour
  • Boarding begins at 9:45PM
  • All Tickets: $13 per ticket
  • Friday, Saturday and Sunday - 5:30PM
  • Non-alcoholic CASH only beverage service (on the Lone Star) or bring your own beverage of choices
  • Boarding begins at 4:45PM until 5:15PM
  • Minimum number of people: 30
  • Maximum number of people: 130
  • $18.00 per person (30 - 80 people)
  • $16.00 per person (81 - 130 people)
  • Children 2 and under are no charge
  • Two hour charter time (plus 30 minutes prior to departure for boarding)
  • $200 for each additional hour (may be broken into 1/2 hour increments)
  • Catering and beverage service may be arranged at an additional cost (see below)
  • Charges are for the number of people guaranteed or on a per person basis, whichever is greater

Lone Star Riverboat Sightseeing Tours Gallery

Lone Star Riverboat Sightseeing Tours gallery image 1

Contact Lone Star Riverboat Sightseeing Tours

All fields are required unless indicated.

Featured Things To Do in Austin

Blow Your Mind at Wonderspaces

1. Blow Your Mind at Wonderspaces

Arriving in Austin during covid, Wonderspaces offers 28,000 square feet of art installations to dazzle every corner of your mind, like Hoshi By NONOTAK Studio (pictured above.) An exquisite fun hou...

Ride in Style with a Haunted Hearse Tour

2. Ride in Style with a Haunte...

Locals and visitors alike rave about the dark, spooky style of Haunted ATX hearse limo and van tours. One of the more unique experiences in Austin that is seriously keeping Austin weird, this tour ...

Check out the World Famous Congress Bridge Bats

3. Check out the World Famous ...

View the Congress Bridge Bats is Austin's most popular tourist attraction for a reason. It's simply a marvel. Watch as 1.5 million bats pepper the sky in their nightly departure from Congress Bridg...

Take a Splash with Austin Duck Adventures

4. Take a Splash with Austin D...

One of the first tours to show visitors around town and the only land and water tour available, Austin Duck Adventures is one of the most popular tours in town. The tour starts at the Austin Visito...

Pet Your Next Kitty at Purrfecto Cat Lounge

5. Pet Your Next Kitty at Purr...

Do you believe in furry tails? Indulge your kitty fix or adopt your new family member with a visit to the newest, coolest, chic lounge in Austin...Purrfecto. This is the only cat lounge in Austin a...

Break Out of Prison + More at The Escape Game

6. Break Out of Prison + More ...

Located downtown next to the Austin Visitor Center, this is the #1 escape room in Austin. You and your friends will work together to find clues and overcome challenges to ultimately complete a miss...

7. Take a Wild Ride at Slick D...

Gather the girls and head to Slick Dick’s for some Texas sized fun at one of the only arcades of its kind. Take a wild ride with your ride-or-dies on their mischievous mechanical member, Marvin. Sm...

8. Work out Your Frustrations ...

One of the most exotic Austin things to do, Unchartered Adventures features a variety of high octane activities. Originally they featured a Rage Room full of breakables, suited up guests in protect...

Snap Some Selfies at the Texas State Capitol

9. Snap Some Selfies at the Te...

Austin and Texas are at odds when it comes to politics. Exploring the Texas State Capitol is a unique Austin experience and may help you understand the complexities of the local political scene. Wh...

Dine at the Best Austin Restaurants

10. Dine at the Best Austin Res...

Everybody has a friend that claims their city has the most restaurants per capita. You hear that from Austin locals all the time. While it may not offer the most restaurants per capita, it's defini...

austin tx riverboat tours

Lone Star Riverboat Cruises

Logo

(512) 327-1388

Lone Star Riverboat Cruises & Austin are two shining stars of Texas! Join us aboard one of our all environmentally-friendly vessels. Experience the exhilaration of the outdoors, the abundant waterfowl, our ever changing city skyline and the natural beauty that is Austin. We’re located on Lake Lady Bird in Austin, TX and feature boat charters, daily bat watching tours, weekend afternoon sightseeing tours, and a moonlight cruises on Friday nights. Free parking is available at Vic Mathias Shores subject to special event availability and on a first come first serve basis.

About Charters Imagine your social occasion on a delightful cruise right through the heart of downtown Austin, Texas aboard The Lone Star. Private charters are available year-round for groups of 30 to 100 people. Visit our charters page on our full website for more details.

Daily Bat Watching Sunset Cruises Climb aboard the Little Star, Northern Star and Southern Star Daily (March – October) for a spectacular sight to see the bats emerge from the bridge at sunset! An estimated 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats live under the Congress Avenue Bridge. Tours last 1 hour and start 30 minutes before sunset! Prices are $13 for adults, $11 for seniors, $8 for children aged 2-12, and free for children under 2.

Weekend Afternoon Sightseeing Cruises Enjoy a quiet, scenic and relaxing cruise on Lady Bird Lake, aboard one of our all environmentally-friendly electric cruisers-normally on the Lone Star – our big double-decker boat. Come join us and take in the picturesque sights of Lady Bird Lake. Tour times are Saturday and Sunday at 12:30 and 3pm, boarding begins 45 minutes prior to departure. Prices are $13 for adults, $11 for seniors, $8 for children aged 2-12, and free for children under 2.

Friday Night Moonlight Cruise Enjoy a romantic, scenic and relaxing cruise on Lady Bird Lake, aboard The Lone Star. Come join us and take in the beautiful Austin skyline under the stars with your special someone. Tours are Friday night at 10:30 and boarding begins at 9:45. All tickets are $13.

Thumb_image1

Lone Star Riverboat Cruises Reviews

Andre rieder.

Rating-inactive

We did the boat tour in early April, had great weather, and lots of bats to watch. In addition, Captain Mike, provided talked us through the architecture of the city in an entertaining and informative way. Highly recommend!

Tatiana Pak

Bat-watching from the boat was a lot of fun. They took us on a small excursion along the lake and shared some interesting facts and fun stories about Austin. When the sun came down, we saw thousands of bats flew away from the bridge. Definitely great experience!

Definitely the way to see the bats at Congress Bridge. An added bonus is the peaceful cruise along the gorgeous Austin skyline.

We took a bat cruise and absolutely loved it. Boarding was prompt and efficient. The employees were all lovely. Our capital DJ kept us safe and our other captain (I think Tony) was informative and gave great information. Get there early if you want the upper deck of the larger boat as they begin boarding at 6.15pm. Concessions are CASH only so be prepared if you want a drink.

Carrie Ciaverelli, PT, MPT, CYT

Our family and friend visiting had a wonderful cruise with Captain Mike. The bats were amazing and we had a great view from the boat when they decided to come out for their evening flights. We also enjoyed learning about the Austin skyline and some of the history. If you have out-of-town guests visiting Austin, we highly recommend this as a truly Austin experience.

Monica Sleboda

This is a great thing to do while visiting Austin. Or guide was very knowledgeable of the area and came up with fun stories. Watching the bats come out at dusk was really cool too. Only thing I wish I had known before we arrived was that it’s BYOB and you can bring food. Definitely get there early so you can get on the big boat with tables on the upper deck.

Rebecca Caday

So glad we did this! My husband and I were visiting from DFW and I wanted to find an activity that was unique and came across Lone Star Riverboat tours. Very affordable, even better. Bring your own snacks and drinks, although they did have some canned drinks for sale. Captains DJ and Robert were friendly and humorous. We sat on the top deck but there's an enclosed 1st deck as well, which I imagine is great for colder days. The tour was an hour, left promptly, and returned promptly; great for a tight schedule. Definitely recommend for a different type of excursion in Austin.

James Bastin

1 hour cruise down the river. Interesting to hear about buildings new and old and the bats! If you want to see the bats fly at night then go for an evening cruise. They aren’t visible during the day. Apparently 750k-1.5m at any time. We came November and they are apparently going back to Mexico in the next few days until next year. Not sure which month they come back..

David Johnson

It's definitely worth the price to take one of these boat tours to see the bats (and the skyline, architecture, landmarks, etc.) while in Bat City, instead of trying to see from on top of the bridge. Our captain/tour guide was excellent, but I don't recall her name (the cute blonde comedian girl). Apparently they also have a larger boat that can be chartered for private events.

A truly amazing experience. Our guide was really funny and personable. We experienced everything we were promised: a boat tour, view of the city from the water, 1.5 million bats flying out into the country to feast on mosquitoes and various other creatures they prefer to eat. This is a 100% must for both locals and visitors.

Lone Star Riverboat Cruises VIP List   Learn more about the VIP program

Total Score: 3500

Lone Star Riverboat Cruises Gallery

Xl_image1

THE 10 BEST Austin Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in austin.

  • Boat Rentals
  • Kayaking & Canoeing
  • Stand-Up Paddleboarding
  • Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
  • Waterskiing & Jetskiing
  • Water Sports
  • River Rafting & Tubing
  • Scuba & Snorkeling
  • Fishing Charters & Tours
  • Speed Boats Tours
  • Dolphin & Whale Watching
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Austin Country Club
  • Pennybacker Bridge
  • Mount Bonnell
  • Congress Avenue Bridge Bat Watching
  • Likely to Sell Out
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

austin tx riverboat tours

1. Austin Small Group Night Tour with Famous Austin Bat Boat Cruise

austin tx riverboat tours

2. Private Lake Austin Boat Cruise - Full Sun Shading Available

austin tx riverboat tours

3. Congress Avenue Bat Bridge Kayak Tour in Austin

austin tx riverboat tours

4. Austin Boat Tour with Full Sun Shading Available

austin tx riverboat tours

5. Guided Sunset Bat Kayak Tour in Austin

austin tx riverboat tours

6. Small-Group Public BYOB Sunset Boat Tour on Lake Travis

austin tx riverboat tours

7. Austin Lake Travis Barge Crawl Bar Hopping Tour by Boat

austin tx riverboat tours

8. 3 Hour Private Boat Charter on Lake Austin for up to 12 People

austin tx riverboat tours

9. Social Boat Ride in Austin with Ski Shores Cafe Visit

austin tx riverboat tours

10. Congress Avenue Bat Bridge Paddleboard Tour with Austin Skyline

austin tx riverboat tours

11. 3 Hour Private Boat Charter on Lake Travis for up to 12 People

austin tx riverboat tours

12. Lake Travis Boat Cruise

austin tx riverboat tours

13. Sunset Guided Congress Avenue Bat Kayaking Tour in Austin

austin tx riverboat tours

14. Austin Wellness Yacht Charter Experience on Lake Travis

austin tx riverboat tours

15. 2 Hour Boat Tour on Lake Austin

austin tx riverboat tours

16. Small-Group Public BYOB Sunset Boat Tour on Lake Austin

austin tx riverboat tours

17. Austin Yacht Charter Experience on Lake Travis

austin tx riverboat tours

18. Austin Day Spa Onboard Yacht Charter

austin tx riverboat tours

19. Cruise Austin's Beautiful Lakes

austin tx riverboat tours

20. Full-Day Austin Skyline Kayak and Swimming Hole Tour

austin tx riverboat tours

21. Sunset Yacht Charter Experience on Lake Travis

austin tx riverboat tours

22. Private Tour of Austin with State Capitol and Cruise

austin tx riverboat tours

23. 2hr Boat Tour up to 10 on Lake Austin with Captain

austin tx riverboat tours

24. 4 Hour Boat Tour on Lake Austin

austin tx riverboat tours

25. Downtown Austin Sunset Kayak Tour with 1.5 Million Bats

austin tx riverboat tours

26. Guided Downtown to Barton Springs Kayak Tour

austin tx riverboat tours

27. Guided Downtown Austin Kayak Tour

What travelers are saying.

Travelingtracy2013

  • Congress Avenue Bat Bridge Kayak Tour in Austin
  • Austin Skyline Kayak Tour
  • Austin Boat Tour with Full Sun Shading Available
  • Glowing Kayak Tour Austin Lower Colorado River
  • Private Lake Austin Boat Cruise - Full Sun Shading Available
  • Alpha Boat Rentals
  • Experience Austin
  • Adventure Crate by Greenbelt Outdoors - Lady Bird Lake
  • Austin Tour Company
  • Tide Up Boat Rentals
  • Live Love Paddle
  • Congress Avenue Kayaks
  • Austin Rental Boats
  • Capital Cruises
  • Lone Star River Boat
  • Austin Rowing Club
  • Rowing Dock
  • ATXcursions
  • Good Time Tours
  • Keep Austin Wet
  • Float On Lake Austin & Travis
  • Just for Fun Watercraft rental

Holiday Lights Tour Promo

Austin Duck Adventures Is Open!

Masks are recommended but not required.

Holiday Sing-Along Tour

Join us December 19 th and 20 th at 5:30 PM to tour through the streets of Austin and into Austin Lake. There is limited seating so book ahead. Happy Holidays! Masks are recommended but not required.

The Splash is Back!

  • Passengers must wear masks at all times on the tour bus.
  • Tickets must be purchased online or by phone (512) 477-5274. No physical tickets will be used. A passenger list will be used to check off registered customers.
  • The tour guide will assign passenger seats to ensure a safe distance.
  • Customers should use the distancing tape found on the sidewalks while waiting to board.

Limited Capacity Tours

Our tours are running 7 days a week with limited capacity due to Covid. Use the button below to learn more about Covid related changes before purchasing a ticket.

Join us December 19 th , 20 th and 21 st at 5:30 PM to tour through the streets of Austin and into Austin Lake. There is limited seating so book ahead. Happy Holidays!

Austin Duck Adventures

(512) 477-5274 602 E 4th Street Austin, Texas 78701

austin tx riverboat tours

Austin Duck Adventures

It's The Best Way To tour Austin, Texas!

Safety Covid Guidelines

About us land and water tours.

Tour Austin with a Splash!

The original Austin tour, Austin Duck Adventures offers an amphibious tour that includes tours of downtown Austin and beautiful Lake Austin in UNSINKABLE, US coast guard inspected, Hydra Terra vehicles. Austin Duck Adventures is Austin's best tour with 75 minutes of sightseeing that includes Historic Sixth Street, the State Capitol Building, the Governor's Mansion, and Lake Austin.

Austn Duck Tickets

Austin Duck Adventures is a top Austin tour and sells out quick. Don't wait til the last minute, please buy your tickets online here.

Austn Duck Departure

The fun begins when you board your Austin Duck Adventures "Duck" near the Austin Visitors Center. Please check your confirmation FAQ for specific details.

Groups and Private

Groups & Parties

Are you planning an event for a group of passengers? Use the button below to learn more about our group and private lake tours in Austin, Texas.

happy kids with duck whistles

Videos Check out our Videos!

Reviews Everybody Loves Duck Tours!

Austin City Guide

"Austin Duck Adventures is one of the longest running tours in Austin for a reason. The tour shows you some cool parts of Austin with a spin around Lake Austin that is known for making a splash with the entire family. It's great to get out of downtown and see the surrounding areas. Due to its high popularity and reasonable pricing, it stays in our Top 5 Things to Do in Austin ." ~ Ivan Collins Austin City Guide

TripAdvidor

"After visiting Austin a few times over the last year, we finally had a chance to take the Duck Tour. We had fun, enjoyed the views, and learned a bit about Austin along the way. This tour definitely helps keep Austin weird." ~Scot C. April 2019

Yelp

"Super cool and fun way to tour the city of Austin on land and water. Our tour guide was very entertaining, friendly, and knowledgeable of the city. He provides each person with little quackers to offer up quacks to those we pass along the way." ~Chirrita R. June 2020

Google

"The best tour for adults and kids! If you don’t see Austin from the water, you’ve missed half the beauty. Great for littles as they get a “quacker” and rubber ducky. My 2 and 4 year old were engaged the whole time!" ~Amberly Marston November 2020

"Erik was our guide, and he was a lot of fun. Told us lots of interesting facts, but kept us laughing as well. Well worth the money, and I would definitely go again." ~Junkmel M. July 2020

"Great experience, a wonderful way to see and to learn a little Austin history. Thank you Captain Bob!" ~Monica B. August 2020

"An absolute blast that everyone needs to experience! We learned so much about Austin and the area on this unique tour. I can't imagine you finding a better way to get to know the area than by land and sea! Give the Duck Tours a chance! You won't regret it!" ~Aaron Bunting November 2019

Contact Us Parking, Departure, & Contact

Our tours start outside of the Austin Visitor Center located at the corner of Red River and 4th street in downtown Austin. The closest parking is at the 5th Street Garage, a 5-story parking garage with 685 spaces, located at 601 E. 5th Street. Enter the garage off 5th street on the North side of the building. You can exit on the south side.

(512) 4-SPLASH or (512) 477-5274

Send us a message

austin tx riverboat tours

Austin Duck Adventres Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. Our Favorite Austin Things To Do Guide -->

austin tx riverboat tours

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience. Dismiss

Logo

Boats Our Boats

Lone Star Riverboat has three different boats for you to choose from, to host your next Austin adventure. Chose bethween luxurious double-decked, paddle-wheel riverboat, or two smaller boats ideal for sunset/bat watching.

The Lone Star

Lone Star

Our largest boat, the Lone Star, is Austin's newest and most luxurious double-decked, paddle-wheel riverboat

The Little Star

Little Star

The Little Star was built in 2000 and offers sunset/bat watching cruises and sightseeing cruises March through October.

The Southern Star

Southern Star

The Southern Star was built in 2006 and offers sunset/bat watching cruises March through October.

The Northern Star

Northern Star

The Northern Star was built in 2017 and offers sunset/bat watching cruises March through October.

  • Map & Contact
  • Parking Tips

Lone Star Riverboat © 2017. All rights reserved. Managed by the Best Ways to View the Austin Bats -->

Austin Tour Company

Austin Tour Company

Explore the hill country with san marcos tubing and more, choose your austin tour.

  • Available from March 2024
  • Hour Glass 6 Hours
  • Tags All Ages

Private River Float

Relax with Your Own Private Transportation to and from your River Trip. Have a blast on the river with your friends as you enjoy an exciting float, sharing some drinks and some laughs along the way. It’s the perfect summer day!

  • Tags Ages 18+

Public River Floats in Texas

There’s no better way to beat the Texas heat than partaking in an Austin tradition, floating the river. Spend the day making your way through a natural lazy river on a tube while enjoying beverages of your choice and the beautiful atmosphere of the San Marcos river.

  • Tags Ages 21+

Taste & Tour: Texas Hill Country Distillery Tours

Start the day with a tour of Austins best Distilleries by having a private ride pick you up from the location of your choice where you can BYOB to get the party started the second you’re on board.

  • Hour Glass ~6.5 Hours

Wine Down Winery Tour

Your first stop will be Wimberley Valley Winery where you’ll enjoy a wine tasting at the bar (included with your ticket) and can buy bottles or glasses from a retro fitted double decker bus. After which you can sip from the comfort of their patio while you watch the local ponies graze.

  • Hour Glass 2 Hours

Transportation

Need a ride around Austin? Let us take care of the driving, we have several different sized vehicles available!!!

  • Nov. 3rd - 12th

Wheels to Wurstfest

Why risk the hour drive from Austin to New Braunfels when you can take our Wheels to Wurstfest? Voted the number two Oktoberfest in the country by USA Today! With sausage, beer, polka and potato pancakes as far as the eye can see, it’s a Bavarian wonderland that’s not to be missed.

  • Hour Glass 7 Hours

Experience the Austin Area on our Tours Like Never Before

We do things a little differently here, weirdly some would say, and we wouldn’t have it any other way! Central Texas is yours to discover through our experiences like floating the river in San Marcos , distillery tours , brunch boats, & more. Book your Austin tours online!

Recommended on Tripadvisor

Get to Know Austin Tour Company

We hit the trail then the taco truck. We create new ways of doing things, we collaborate, we #LeanLocal . We’re women-owned and operated with diverse employee backgrounds. We’ve been in the business of creating experiences for over 15 years and our leadership teams have held a mix of corporate, nonprofit and governmental roles. We are constantly inspired by our city and each other. We empower our community, we practice active inclusion, we prioritize sustainability, we give back, and we invite you to learn more about how we put these words into action on our community page.

austin tx riverboat tours

Float the San Marcos River, Take our Austin Tours & More!

austin tour company

The Best Time

The best time I have had in years! Awesome tour guide and bus driver. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming. Clean bus and timely. If you haven't gone with Austin Tour Co. yet you’re missing out. Book something soon! You'll be so happy you did!

Unforgettable

This company made our trip to Texas unforgettable!! We did the River Float and Deep Eddy tour through them and we met incredible people, had a lot of laughs and came home with hilarious memories. I can't wait to go back to Austin!! Thanks girl!

Highly Recommend

This is the most welcoming place ever! The staff are so friendly and absolutely love their job. We went for a friends birthday and it was the best time! I highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a good fun!!

Thank you so much for organizing such an awesome event! We had the BEST time. The entire team was absolutely incredible to work with. We had such an awesome turnout, it was so much fun, and people were raving that it was the best party at the convention.

Give the Austin Tours Experience

a group of people on stand up paddleboards on a river

Studies have shown that experiences, not things, make us happy. We couldn’t agree more. Whether you’re looking to create a new memory with someone you love, encourage friends to do something new, celebrate a staff member, cheer someone up or anything in between, we have you covered. Our Austin tours are the perfect gift for any occasion.

@austintourco

a man looking DJing

Tubing Austin – Float The River With Us

Summer Is Here...

Go Tubing In Austin.

Austin tubing trips, austin's best way to float the river.

Are you ready to float the river?  Our Austin, TX-based excursions team takes you from Downtown Austin to San Marcos to float the river in style.  It's a safe, round trip ride that includes your tubes, coolers, ice, and the coolest guides in town to make sure you have a great time.

All river float trips include:

  • Transportation to and from Austin, TX, and the river.
  • Tube rental, coolers, cooler tubes, and ice. 
  • Complimentary waters on the way there and back.
  • Music coolers are also available for rent.
  • A safe & fun experience for you and your friends!

Once you arrive & check-in we will set you up with coolers and Ice before loading your gear for you on the bus.  It's about a 45-minute ride to the beautiful 72-degree spring-fed waters.  When you arrive at the river you'll have the opportunity to place your items in secure lockboxes to remain on the bus while you float the river.  You'll then get loaded into the river by your guides to float in style!

Tubing trip in Austin

Float The River!

Guides help you enter & exit river..

Figuring out how to get in and out of the river is easy with the Tubing Austin guides.  Our friendly guides will help you and your group get into the river at the perfect spots to have an amazing day.

Relax! It's okay to be lazy on your River Float Today!

The best part about tubing the river with Tubing Austin?  YOU GET TO RELAX!  Regardless of if you want to party, or just spend a day drifting away, our tubing trips are the perfect way to relax with friends.

Austin Tubing Trips Gallery

Tubing the rivers around Austin, TX is ALOT of fun!  Check out the gallery of tubing trip & lazy river floats in and around Austin Texas here.

Book a Tubing Trip today

Enjoy a day floating the lazy rivers outside Austin, TX.  It's the perfect activity for any group and is sure to help you beat the heat!  Book a tubing trip or contact us today for more information!

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience. Dismiss

We Are Accepting Reservations

Book your outdoor event with us today! E-mail: [email protected] 512.345.5220

Logo

-->Welcome to Lake Austin Riverboats

For parties, weddings, rehearsal dinners and corporate events, Lake Austin Riverboats has been an Austin institution for more than 50 years

-->We are the Longest Running Riverboat Operation in Texas.

-->featuring the beauty of lake austin, -->weddings, parties, rehearsal dinners, corporate events, and more, about us celebrating over 70 years.

As the longest running riverboat operation in Texas and an official boat of the Texas Navy, Lake Austin Riverboats provides a party venue as unique as Austin itself. Our full crew and captain will do everything to make your birthday, company party, meeting, group event, banquet, rehearsal dinner or wedding memorable. We offer catering, bar service, linen service, theme parties and live music. Whatever you need for your event, we bring it all together at Lake Austin Riverboats. And we're located just five minutes from downtown Austin.

About Our Boats

Hand built on Lake Austin, our authentic stern-wheel riverboats are designed to host your large party, wedding, company meeting, club luncheon or other group event. The Commodore, with its vintage twin smoke stacks, can entertain up to 250 guests and has two dining rooms. The Commodore’s Pup, with its open upper deck, can accommodate up to 125 guests. Both boats have A/C and heating for your comfort.

The Beauty of Lake Austin

Lake Austin is one of the seven highland lakes in Central Texas. Your chartered course begins at the LCRA dock next to the Tom Miller Dam where free parking is readily available. As we meander up Lake Austin, you’ll enjoy the beauty of the natural limestone cliffs, Mt. Bonnell, some amazing lakefront mansions and spectacular views of the picturesque Pennybacker Bridge. The beauty of Lake Austin and the leisurely pace of our authentic stern wheel boat provide the perfect setting for your event or party. But don't take our word for it. Check out the video below for a bird's eye view of the scenary you'll see when you enjoy an event with Lake Austin Riverboats.

Contact Us Parking and Boarding Info

Parking: Weekends and Weekdays after 5pm in the LCRA visitor parking at 3700 Lake Austin Blvd or any time in the City of Austin metered lot at 1501 Scenic Drive .

Boarding: Two different locations depending on your event. Please contact your event host for location details: (1) The Hula Hut boat dock, 3825 Lake Austin Blvd 78703 (between Hula Hut and Quince Lakehouse), or the LCRA landing behind the LCRA's Jack Miller building, 3701 Lake Austin Blvd 78703 (between Hula Hut and the Tom Miller Dam.).

Boat Boarding Address

Mailing address, contact info, send us a message.

If you're human leave this blank:

Send us a message

We sincerely appreciate your interest in Lake Austin Riverboats. Use the form below for general questions. If you're looking for a price qoute on your next event, please fill out the form on the Request a Quote page so we can gather all the necessary details. We look forward to hearing from you and promise to respond as quickly as possible.

Lake Austin Riverboats - All Rights Reserved. Site created by Top 25 Things to do in Austin, Tx

austin tx riverboat tours

Lake Austin Riverboats Copyright 2018. All rights reserved.

Austin's Boat Tours

  • Reservations
  • Party Boats
  • Boat Rentals
  • Explore Travis Lake
  • Need to Know

Untitled design

Austin's Boat Tours has been the Official Best of Texas every year since 2013! Being the pioneers of this type and size of double decker parties on Lake Travis, we know how to give you the experience of a lifetime. When it comes to fun, relaxation, lake cruising or partying in Devil's Cove we are the area's local experts. Austin's Boat Tours is one of the only privately owned and operated charter company with it's very own marina, we are a one stop shop for all your lake needs. Services include round trip transportation, food service, bartenders/servers and of course some of the best captains on the lake. With the largest fleet of 10 boats, we are the OG's of Lake Travis boat parties.  See below or click on the tabs for more details. If you have questions not seen on the site feel free to call or text us anytime!  

Transport Buses

Austins Boat Tours Best Party Boats Logo 2023

Public Lake Cruises

If its a fun in the sun or catching the beautiful sunset we go you covered. Our two hour public lake cruises are ideal for small family or couple outings.

Untitled design

Private Charters

Wanting to go to Lake Travis' famous Devil's Cove or maybe a family day in Little Devil's?! We can do that for you with our private charters. 

Bus Sunset

Let us do the driving for you! We have different vehicle options to fit your needs. We make sure to get you to and from the lake safely.

We had such a fun day out on Austin's Boats Tour for my birthday Shout out thank you to Captain Nick he was such nice, friendly guy asked if we brought food to grill and I said yes so he said he would grill it for us while we have fun in the sun and Shout out to the owner Angel such a beautiful sweet heart and Christina also she was up front was very friendly and welcomed you t o the place I will definitely be going back out their just everyone their was so friendly do recommend Austin's Boat Tour go                             check them out please!                             Guadalupe J 8/20/23

TripAdvisor-Logo-Plain

6 years running

Our bachelor party boat day on April 22, 2023 was in great hands with Captain Lee! Everything was seamless from start to finish, including our captain helping arrange an Uber Package delivery of one of the bags we left behind! We tied up to other boats, floated around Lake Travis, and partied like there’s no tomorrow! Would highly recommend! 

Zachary B 4/22/23

ot-contrib-google

Captain Marshall was AWESOME!!! We did the boat tour and it was just me, my wife, and Captain Marshall and it was the best time!! He even offered to take our sunset pics for us! This is our 2nd sunset cruise and we will definitely do it again, thank you Austin Boat Tours and Captain Marshall for an awesome ride! ♥️♥️

Starr Shepard 3/24/23

Visit Austin

Lake Austin Riverboats

austin tx riverboat tours

  • Open 24 hours

About Lake Austin Riverboats As the longest running riverboat operation in Texas and an official boat of the Texas Navy, Lake Austin Riverboats provides a party venue as unique as Austin itself. Our full crew and captain will do everything to make your birthday, company party, meeting, group event, banquet, rehearsal dinner or wedding memorable. We offer catering, bar service, linen service, theme parties and live music. Whatever you need for your event, we bring it all together at Lake Austin Riverboats. And we're located just five minutes from downtown Austin. We do private Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner cruises for private and corporate events. Our cruises include Catering, Bar service, Captain and Crew. We're located just five minutes from downtown Austin and can host events up to 400 people. Use this link to more about Lake Austin Riverboats and request a quote for your event.

About Our Boats Hand built on Lake Austin, our authentic stern-wheel riverboats are designed to host your large party, wedding, company meeting, club luncheon or other group event. The Commodore, with its vintage twin smoke stacks, can entertain up to 250 guests and has two dining rooms. The Commodore’s Pup, with its open upper deck, can accommodate up to 125 guests. Both boats have A/C and heating for your comfort.

The Beauty of Lake Austin Lake Austin is one of the seven highland lakes in Central Texas. Your chartered course begins at the LCRA dock next to the Tom Miller Dam where free parking is readily available. As we meander up Lake Austin, you’ll enjoy the beauty of the natural limestone cliffs, Mt. Bonnell, some amazing lakefront mansions and spectacular views of the picturesque Pennybacker Bridge. The beauty of Lake Austin and the leisurely pace of our authentic stern wheel boat provide the perfect setting for your event or party. But don't take our word for it. Check out the video below for a bird's eye view of the scenery you'll see when you enjoy an event with Lake Austin Riverboats.

General Property Details

  • Miles to Convention Center: 4.5

Facility Information

  • Event maximum capacity (# ppl): 450

austin tx riverboat tours

Russell Crowe Announces His First U.S. Tour Dates in a Dozen Years

F or anyone who saw the news about Russell Crowe and his Indoor Garden Party playing the Acoustic Stage of this year's Glastonbury Festival and shook your fist at the sky about the injustice of Crowe not playing anywhere in the States, well, it's time to stop with the fist-shaking and make with the ticket-buying.

Crowe has announced a series of tour dates for August that will take him and the aforementioned Indoor Garden Party on a bit of a zig-zagging path, but it's a path that'll find him popping up on both coasts and elsewhere, playing in six different cities.

When Crowe announced his Glastonbury appearance earlier this month, he did so by saying, “For those of you watching and waiting for tour dates, we will be adding more soon," and he's proven to be a man of his word.

The tour, while perhaps shorter than many of his fans would prefer, is his first time playing around America in 12 years. The brief jaunt will start in Newark, New Jersey and then hit New York City before heading to Los Angeles. From there, it's off to Tulsa, Oklahoma, which is followed by Austin, Texas, and then the whole shebang comes to a conclusion in New Orleans.

Here's the full list of dates, with venues included:

08/11 – Newark, NJ @ NJPAC

08/12 – New York, NY @ Sony Hall

08/14 – Los Angeles, CA @ Whisky A Go Go

08/17 – Tulsa, OK @ River Spirit Casino

08/19 – Austin, TX @ Stubb’s

08/21 – New Orleans, LA @ Tipitina’s

In a recent interview with Smooth Radio , Crowe explained the origins of his so-called Indoor Garden Party, giving credit to chat show host Michael Parkinson, of all people.

"I was mates with Michael Parkinson, and he had this pub, and I was shooting the movie Robin Hood , "explained Crowe. "We brought together these guys as the Merry Men. And just because it's naturally our band, we were just singing a lot of songs and everything. So we just decided to put on a little show for Michael at his pub. Ended up like hundreds of people turned out, the cast from Master and Commander and stuff like that. And it just went around the room, this idea that you have a central act on stage, but from any point in the room, something special can happen. And that's basically the idea for Indoor Garden Party." As it stands at present, Indoor Garden Party have only released one studio album, 2017’s The Musical , but that hasn’t stopped them from continuing to tour the world and elsewhere whenever Crowe and his cronies are of a mind to do so. Just as a sidebar, it's perhaps worth mentioning that one of those cronies is Crowe's fellow actor Scott Grimes, who also has a fascinating bit of '80s history in his closet as well: he recorded an album with Richard Carpenter. (Yes, the one who was in the Carpenters.)

Yes, we know we mentioned this last time as well. But you can't deny that it's a fascinating piece of information.

Never miss a story — sign up for the Q newsletter for the latest music news on all your favorite artists, all in one place.

Russell Crowe will bring his Indoor Garden Party to the U.S. this summer.MEGA

IMAGES

  1. Austin Tours: Sightseeing Options for History, Fun and Culture

    austin tx riverboat tours

  2. Lone Star Riverboat

    austin tx riverboat tours

  3. Austin's Boat Tours

    austin tx riverboat tours

  4. Date Ideas from PearHaven: Riverboat Tour in Austin, TX

    austin tx riverboat tours

  5. Austin's Boat Tours

    austin tx riverboat tours

  6. Lone Star Riverboat Cruises

    austin tx riverboat tours

VIDEO

  1. narrowboat sinking while cruising! #narrowboat #boat #canalboat #longboat #canalboat #boat

COMMENTS

  1. Lone Star Riverboat Cruises

    November 2019. "Lone Star Riverboat tours have consistently been one of the most popular tours in Austin. Their sightseeing, moonlight and afternoon cruises are a great way to see the city skyline and Lady Bird Lake. Their bat watching tour lands them consistently at the #1 activity in our Things to do in Austin Guide during bat watching season."

  2. Lone Star Riverboat Cruises

    Pick from one of Lone Star Riverboat's public tours down Lady Bird Lake. These tours include a commentary by the captain. ... Learn about Austin's most popular tours on Lady Bird Lake here. We feature nightly bat watching tours, weekend afternoon sightseeing tours, Friday night moonline tours, and more in the heart of downtown Austin on Lady ...

  3. Capital Cruises

    For PRIVATE CRUISES, boarding time is usually 15 minutes in advance of departure (check with dock personnel for your specific cruise). For larger groups (~20 or more), we suggest telling your group to arrive 30 minutes prior to departure to allow for traffic or other possible delays. ... Austin, TX 78704. [email protected] (512) 480-9264 ...

  4. Lone Star Riverboat Sightseeing Tours

    1 hour narrated tour. Reservations recommended. ADA compliant. Non-alcoholic CASH only beverage service (on the Lone Star) or bring your own beverage of choices. Boarding begins at 4:45PM until 5:15PM. Prices: Adults - $13, Seniors (60 and over) - $11, Children (12 and under) - $8, Children (2 and under) - Free.

  5. Lone Star Riverboat

    Outdoors Lone Star Riverboat Address: 208 Barton Springs Rd., Austin, TX 78704 Telephone: (512) 327-1388

  6. Lone Star River Boat

    Lone Star Friday Night Moonlight Cruise. Jul 2022. Travel down Lady Bird Lake on a moonlight cruise, lazily watching the dark waters and the glistening Austin skyline. Bring your food and water and enjoy the night sky. There are chairs and tables set on the upper deck, and air-conditioned seating on the main deck.

  7. Lone Star Riverboat Cruises in Austin, TX

    Lone Star Riverboat Cruises 208 Barton Springs Road Austin, TX, 78704 (512) 327-1388

  8. THE 10 BEST Austin Boat Rides & Cruises

    8. Small-Group Public BYOB Sunset Boat Tour on Lake Austin. 46. Day Cruises. 1-2 hours. Perfect for solo travelers or small groups who don't want to rent the entire boat themselves, this intimate cruise offers…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 100% of travelers. from.

  9. Austin Duck Adventures

    Our tours start outside of the Austin Visitor Center located at the corner of Red River and 4th street in downtown Austin. The closest parking is at the 5th Street Garage, a 5-story parking garage with 685 spaces, located at 601 E. 5th Street. Enter the garage off 5th street on the North side of the building. You can exit on the south side.

  10. Riverboat Cruises in Austin

    Home to three manmade lakes and the Colorado River, Austin, Texas, is a great place to enjoy a day, or night, on the water. Local riverboat companies offer a diverse array of vessel and tour options.

  11. TOP 10 BEST River Cruise in Austin, TX

    Top 10 Best River Cruise in Austin, TX - April 2024 - Yelp - Capital Cruises, Lone Star Riverboat, Austin's Boat Tours, Austin Detours, Austin Duck Adventures, Sunshine Machine Boat Tours, Austin Party Cruises, Float On - Lake Austin Boat Rentals & Lake Travis Boat Rentals, Austin Tour Company, Retro Boat Rentals ATX

  12. The Commodore

    The Commodore. Hand-built on Lake Austin by the Fowler family in 1947, the Commodore is an historic Southern-style sternwheel Riverboat. Perfect for corporate events, rehearsal dinners and birthdays, the Commodore can accommodate up to 250 guests and comes fully staffed with catering and bar service. Length 93 ft. Capacity 250 guests.

  13. Lone Star Riverboat Cruises

    Lone Star Riverboat has three different boats for you to choose from, to host your next Austin adventure. ... 208 Barton Springs Rd Austin, TX 78704 Open in Google Maps. Call Us 512-327-1388. Buy Tickets Here. ... The Little Star was built in 2000 and offers sunset/bat watching cruises and sightseeing cruises March through October. Learn More.

  14. Austin Tour Company

    Austin, Texas, USA downtown skyline over the Colorado River. Float the San Marcos River, Take our Austin Tours & More! The Best Time. The best time I have had in years! Awesome tour guide and bus driver. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming. Clean bus and timely. If you haven't gone with Austin Tour Co. yet you're missing out.

  15. Vanishing Texas River Cruise: The Hill Country's Premiere Ecological Tour

    Vanishing Texas River Cruises. 443 Waterway Lane Burnet, Texas 78611 Call us: (512) 756-6986 ...

  16. Tubing Austin

    All river float trips include: Transportation to and from Austin, TX, and the river. Tube rental, coolers, cooler tubes, and ice. Complimentary waters on the way there and back. Music coolers are also available for rent. A safe & fun experience for you and your friends! Once you arrive & check-in we will set you up with coolers and Ice before ...

  17. Lake Austin Riverboats

    Parking: Weekends and Weekdays after 5pm in the LCRA visitor parking at 3700 Lake Austin Blvd or any time in the City of Austin metered lot at 1501 Scenic Drive. Boarding: Two different locations depending on your event. Please contact your event host for location details: (1) The Hula Hut boat dock, 3825 Lake Austin Blvd 78703 (between Hula ...

  18. Home

    Austin's Boat Tours has been the Official Best of Texas every year since 2013! Being the pioneers of this type and size of double decker parties on Lake Travis, we know how to give you the experience of a lifetime. When it comes to fun, relaxation, lake cruising or partying in Devil's Cove we are the area's local experts.

  19. Lake Austin Riverboats

    Outdoors Lake Austin Riverboats Address: 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703 Telephone: (512) 345-5220

  20. 6 events to attend in Conroe this weekend, April 27-28

    The Texas Mini Golf Championship, sponsored by Dirt Pile Creative and Steven S. Collier, will include a $5,000 cash pot for its winners. April 27, 8 a.m. (optional practice); April 28, 9 a.m ...

  21. Russell Crowe Announces His First U.S. Tour Dates in a Dozen Years

    The tour, while perhaps shorter than many of his fans would prefer, is his first time playing around America in 12 years. ... 08/17 - Tulsa, OK @ River Spirit Casino. 08/19 - Austin, TX ...