Budgeting Your Boat Rental and Extras for the Day
Ahh, the open waters of Lake Travis or Lake Austin - is there anything quite as liberating as a day spent cruising around on a boat with your closest friends? Whether you're planning a weekend-long bachelor party, a sunset-chasing bachelorette bash, or an unforgettable corporate team-building adventure, a premium boat rental is a must.
But before you can set sail, you'll need to do some serious number-crunching to make sure your budget stays afloat. From the cost of the boat itself to all the extras that make for an epic day on the water, there are a lot of factors to consider. Lucky for you, the team at Party On Delivery has the insider scoop on how to plan the perfect boat party in Austin without sinking your finances.
Choosing the Right Boat Rental
The first (and arguably most important) decision you'll need to make is which boat rental company to go with. There are tons of options around the Austin area, from no-frills pontoon boats to luxury yachts that'll make you feel like a celebrity.
| Boat Rental Company | Boat Type | Capacity | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brody's Boat Rentals | Pontoon | 10-12 people | $175-$250/hr |
| Lakeway Marina | Deck Boat | 10-12 people | $200-$300/hr |
| Austin Boat Tours | Luxury Yacht | 30-50 people | $500-$1,000/hr |
When comparing boat rental options, be sure to consider the size, style, and amenities of each vessel. A smaller pontoon boat might be perfect for an intimate bachelor party, while a larger yacht could be ideal for a corporate team-building event. Also, don't forget to factor in the hourly rate, as that will be a major line item in your overall budget.
Calculating Additional Costs
Once you've nailed down the boat rental itself, it's time to start thinking about all the extras that'll make your day on the water truly unforgettable. From food and drinks to music and activities, there are lots of ways to customize your boat party experience.
Food and Drinks
No boat party is complete without an abundance of refreshments! You'll need to account for the cost of any catering, snacks, or beverages you plan to have onboard. Some boat rental companies offer in-house food and drink packages, while others allow you to bring your own.
If you go the DIY route, be sure to budget for things like:
- Coolers and ice
- Bottled water, soda, and juices
- Beer, wine, and cocktail mixers
- Plastic cups, napkins, and utensils
- Any specialty food items or catering
The team at Party On Delivery can take the stress out of this part of the planning process. We offer premium alcohol delivery, customizable cooler packages, and full-service beverage catering for boat parties on Lake Travis and Lake Austin. Just let us know what you need, and we'll handle the rest!
Music and Entertainment
No boat party is complete without a killer playlist and some fun on-the-water activities. Make sure to factor in the cost of any speakers, sound systems, or live music you want to have. You'll also need to budget for any inflatable toys, water sports equipment, or party games you plan to bring aboard.
Transportation and Parking
Depending on the size of your group and where your boat is docked, you may need to arrange for transportation to and from the marina. Services like Longhorn Charter Bus can make getting everyone to the boat a breeze. And don't forget to account for any parking fees at the launch site.
Creating a Detailed Budget
Once you've considered all the different line items, it's time to put together a comprehensive budget for your boat party. This will help ensure you don't overspend and that you have enough funds set aside for everything you want to do.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Boat Rental (4 hours) | $800-$1,200 |
| Food and Drinks | $300-$500 |
| Music and Entertainment | $100-$300 |
| Transportation and Parking | $50-$150 |
| Gratuities and Miscellaneous | $100-$200 |
| TOTAL | $1,350-$2,350 |
This is just a general estimate, and your actual costs may vary depending on the size of your group, the type of boat you choose, and the specific extras you want to include. Be sure to do your research, get quotes from multiple vendors, and leave a little wiggle room in your budget for any unexpected expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How far in advance should I book my boat rental?
A: It's best to book your boat rental as early as possible, especially during peak seasons like summer. Many popular rental companies can fill up months in advance, so try to lock in your reservation at least 3-6 months prior to your event.
Q: Can I bring my own food and drinks on the boat?
A: Most boat rental companies allow you to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages on board. However, many have restrictions on outside alcohol, so be sure to check with the rental provider ahead of time. Party On Delivery can simplify this process by handling all your boat party alcohol needs.
Q: Do I need a special license or permit to operate the boat?
A: For most standard boat rentals in the Austin area, you won't need a specific boating license. The rental company will provide a captain or guide to operate the vessel. However, if you're renting a larger yacht or planning to operate the boat yourself, you may need to provide proof of a valid boating license.
Q: What should I bring with me on the boat?
A: In addition to your food, drinks, and music, it's a good idea to pack things like sunscreen, hats, towels, and a change of clothes. You may also want to bring any water sports equipment, games, or other activities you plan to enjoy on the water.
Ready to elevate your boat party? Explore our boat party alcohol delivery, cooler packages, and premium beverage service for Lake Travis and Lake Austin boat parties and let Party On Delivery handle the details.
This article is part of our comprehensive The Ultimate Guide to Lake Travis Boat Parties. Explore the full guide for more tips and resources.
Allan Henslee
Founder & CEO of Party On Delivery, helping Austin celebrate in style since 2023.