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    Retro Boat Rentals ATX

    Leave the dock and go back in time

    What makes it fun

    Imagine cruising the lake in one of several vintage fiberglass boats that have been restored to their original mid-century design with retro cool colors, fins and chrome details. This enviable old-school style meets a fantastic eco-friendly update – it’s now electric! The zero emissions electric motors create an environmentally clean, quiet experience for even the novice boater.

    Google Reviews

    Retro Boat Rentals ATX place picture
    Retro Boat Rentals ATX

    4.9

    Based on 635 reviews

    R R Salazar profile picture
    R R Salazar

    5 days ago

    Here's a polished version for a Google review:

    What a fantastic way to spend time together as a family! The Texas heat was no joke, but getting out on the lake made all the difference. The ride on the water was relaxing, refreshing, and such a fun experience. The service was top-notch from start to finish, and the staff gave clear, thorough instructions that made us feel comfortable and confident. We had a wonderful time and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a great family outing or as a couple. True Austin experience- unique!

    Gordon Baker profile picture
    Gordon Baker

    5 days ago

    My wife and I celebrated our anniversary with an evening Retro Boat ride on Lady Bird lake. The crew that helped us get launched and later docked were very bright, personal group. The boats only travel 4-5 mph which is a nice leisurely ride. No experience needed, advance the throttle and point the boat. Nothing happens fast, so relax.
    Great fun.

    Annie Tran profile picture
    Annie Tran

    6 days ago

    The dudes there were really nice. They were super informative and helped my cousin and I to row the boat and when we got stuck in weeds. Not all heroes wear capes. Sometimes it’s a guy with an oar. Would rec getting Stella on a cool and cloudy day tho.

    Khalil Norman profile picture
    Khalil Norman

    1 week ago

    Very relaxing and intimate. We got engaged during our experience.

    Zoey profile picture
    Zoey

    2 weeks ago

    Super fun! We did the sunset ride but didn’t get to see the bats :( still a cool experience though!

    Susan R profile picture
    Susan R

    1 month ago

    I booked the sunset boat ride for my daughter's 12th birthday. Our family had a relaxing time. The staff was so kind and explained everything to us. Definitely a must when coming to Austin.

    Brittney Fosberg profile picture
    Brittney Fosberg

    2 months ago

    Retro Boats was Amazing! So fun! So easy to rent and ride! Max and Henry were wonderful and will definitely make this a regular habit with local friends and friends visiting from other places!

    Jennifer E profile picture
    Jennifer E

    5 months ago

    Retro Boats, a conveniently, easily accessible boat rental unlike any other. Numerous color and design options as far as boat options. A perfect casual or dress up day/evening on Lady Bird Lake. A perfect place for a girls day, or day date. Snacks, alcohol, blankets, are all welcome. The staff members were helpful and especially great with guidance/directions. This is easily doable for those with or without boating experience. Could be handicap accessible depending on the circumstances. I highly recommend 90 minutes, as that would allow you to explore down the lake and up the lake. The city views and beautiful sights make for greats photo opportunities. Be sure to bring waters, and anything else you can think of! We had ourselves an absolute blast!

    Melanie Freeman profile picture
    Melanie Freeman

    5 months ago

    This is such a fun experience! My family and I took a boat out and it was awesome!! Really enjoyed it and will definitely do it again the next time we are in Austin. Thank you!

    Taylor Criswell profile picture
    Taylor Criswell

    5 months ago

    We had such a good experience with Retro Boat Rentals! We were running a little behind and despite that the staff was so friendly and helpful and did a great job at making sure we had a great experience. We had such a pretty sunset view from the water and even got to watch the bats come out from under the bridge. The cute boat is the cherry on top. Highly recommend! :)

    Todd Bank profile picture
    Todd Bank

    1 year ago

    We had a group of 4 take out a Retro Boat late afternoon. Max and the staff were super helpful and we had a great time. I would recommend this to others looking for a relaxing few hours.

    Christopher Benavidez profile picture
    Christopher Benavidez

    1 year ago

    This was our first time going out on the water and the staff was incredible. The first attendant showed us the ins and outs of the boat and Max talked us through the do’s and don’ts on the water. It was such a relaxing experience with gorgeous views.

    Nathan Lenss profile picture
    Nathan Lenss

    1 year ago

    What a blast! If you have never done this, you need to. Went with my wife, daughter and the grandgirls! So much fun. Make sure Tate is the one to set you sail. He was great, very informative and very helpful. I will definitely do it again!

    Kelly Brynn profile picture
    Kelly Brynn

    1 year ago

    We had such a fun and beautiful morning on the water. Angel was SO friendly and helpful too. 15/10 will do this again and recommend to everyone we know. Thanks for a great time!

    Tyler Milliren profile picture
    Tyler Milliren

    1 year ago

    We had a great time taking out one of the retro boats last weekend. Would highly recommend if you're looking for something different on Lady Bird Lake. The entire process was easy and Angel and Jensen were helpful the entire time!

    c whi profile picture
    c whi

    2 years ago

    Amazing time on the water with my friends. Staff was super friendly. Ethel (our boat) was super cute. Would definitely recommend & visit again.

    Sheila Stewart profile picture
    Sheila Stewart

    2 years ago

    We enjoyed a tour of Ladybird Lake and the Austin Skyline on a sunny day in early December in the lovely mint-green Edith.

    Christin Bagwell Hyde profile picture
    Christin Bagwell Hyde

    2 years ago

    This is such a delightful experience! Highly recommend!

    Katherine Okeefe profile picture
    Katherine Okeefe

    2 years ago

    This is a must do while in Austin! My husband and I had such a wonderful sunset cruise. The staff was really helpful and friendly.

    Jon K profile picture
    Jon K

    2 years ago

    The staff was extremely helpful in planning my surprise proposal. Everything went perfect! Such an amazing boat ride! 11/10!!

    Ryan Stermer profile picture
    Ryan Stermer

    3 years ago

    Had an amazing experience! I spoke with Rachel. She helped me book the boat outing. Rachel and her team were amazing! She was very detailed and had great communication! We walked right up to the dock and they had everything ready to go! Great experience and would absolutely recommend this company to anyone coming to Austin! A++

    T Smith profile picture
    T Smith

    4 years ago

    Recently got engaged on a Retro Boat Rental and it was a great experience from start to finish. Booking was easy, rates were reasonable, and the customer service was great. When I told Nathan about my occasion, he immediately offered to help in anyway with my reservation. The boat was awesome and very easy to operate. The views are unbeatable. I would highly recommend to anyone who lives in or may be visiting Austin.

    Priya Gupta profile picture
    Priya Gupta

    4 years ago

    What a beautiful experience! Totally recommend the retro boat rentals, I booked it last year and was not able to go on that day and they refunded me as gift card for future use. I used it this year and this the reservation.
    Try to book in time otherwise they go out of the evening tours, we had to take the 2 to 3 30 slot , but it was a beautiful day and we enjoyed a lot! The boats are really cool and they also give you speakers which are great! We took some snacks and drinks to enjoy it on the boat. They also have umbrellas just in case if it rains . Everything was very smooth, we reached he just asked for the last name and they were ready! Totally recommend the this!

    cristal burnett profile picture
    cristal burnett

    4 years ago

    Had the most amazing memorable experience on this little boat. We didn't want to paddle or kayak considering it was over 100 degrees outside. We decided on a retro Boat. The prices were great as well. The staff was so nice and helpful considering we booked for the wrong day and they were accommodating and changed our date and got us out on the water. They even gave us an umbrella for shade and a speaker for no extra charge. Both items were very thoughtful. THANK YOU so much for the experience!!!! We will be back again.

    Nick Athey profile picture
    Nick Athey

    4 years ago

    Really fun way to get to enjoy the city & lake. It’s a bit expensive for 2, but the boats hold 4. The amount of time you have is just enough to do a lap of the eastern part of the lake and check out the Congress bridge. I don’t think you’re allowed to go either west because the lake gets really shallow. We had a great time and the staff was awesome.

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      • July 14, 2026 10:15 pm local time

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