Food and Drink Ideas for Your BYOB Austin Boat Party
Ahh, the classic Austin boat party - a beloved tradition that's equal parts sun-soaked fun and local flavor. As an Austin-based premium alcohol delivery service, we at Party On Delivery have seen (and helped plan) our fair share of these aquatic adventures.
So whether you're setting sail on the tranquil waters of Lake Travis or cruising along Lady Bird Lake, we're here to share our top food and drink ideas to make your BYOB boat party the talk of the town.
Stick to Texas Classics

When it comes to boat party eats, you can't go wrong with some good ol' Lone Star State staples. Think juicy Franklin Barbecue brisket sliders, spicy Hatch chili queso dip, and crisp Tito's Handmade Vodka cocktails.
For a true Austin twist, you could even curate a "Texas Tapas" spread with miniature chicken-fried steaks, bite-sized tacos, and petite kolaches. Just be sure to stock up on plenty of Big Red soda and icy Shiner Bock to keep your guests hydrated under the hot sun.
Get Creative with Charcuterie
No boat party is complete without a towering charcuterie board overflowing with local flavors. Start with a selection of cured meats from spots like Salt & Time or Dai Due, then add in artisanal Texas cheeses, colorful fruit, and homemade jams.
For a playful twist, consider a "build-your-own" charcuterie bar where guests can customize their own mini boards. Just provide an array of tasty toppings and let the creativity flow. Don't forget the crackers, crusty bread, and Topo Chico to wash it all down!
Elevate Your BYOB Game
As the name implies, BYOB boat parties allow you to curate your own signature beverage selection. But why settle for basic beer and wine when you can elevate your drink menu with premium cocktail mixers and garnishes?
Consider a DIY bloody mary bar stocked with Tito's Handmade Vodka, spicy Yellowbird hot sauces, and all the fixings. Or create a summery spritz station with Topo Chico, seasonal fruit, and a selection of artisanal Treaty Oak Distilling spirits.
And don't forget the ice! Keep your drinks chilled with large blocks or spheres from a spot like Austin Ice Company. Trust us, your guests will thank you.
Bite-Sized Desserts
After a day of indulging in savory eats and refreshing cocktails, your crew will surely have room for something sweet. Mini desserts like bite-sized cupcakes, petite pies, and adorable cake pops are perfect for boat party snacking.
For an extra Texas twist, consider Sugar Mama's Bakeshop for their famous "Texas sheet cake bites" or Tiny Pies for their adorable hand-held pies. Just be sure to have plenty of napkins on hand!
Practical Party Planning Tips
Of course, no Austin boat party is complete without a few insider tips to keep things running smoothly. Here are a few of our top recommendations:
- Rent a cooler or two to keep your food and drinks properly chilled throughout the day. Longhorn Charter Bus offers cooler rental packages perfect for boat parties.
- Designate a "bartender" to manage the drink station and ensure your guests don't overindulge (nothing ruins a party faster than an unsafe captain!).
- Pack plenty of snacks and non-alcoholic options like water, soda, and juices to keep everyone hydrated.
- Bring along easy-to-eat finger foods that don't require utensils or plates.
- Make a playlist of upbeat tunes to set the mood, but be mindful of volume levels to avoid disturbing nearby boats.
- Scope out the best spots on the lake ahead of time, like the coves near The Oasis on Lake Travis or the calm waters of Lady Bird Lake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can we have food catered for our boat party?
A: Absolutely! Many local Austin catering companies are well-versed in providing boat-friendly fare. We recommend looking into options like Jacoby's Restaurant & Mercantile, Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill, or East Side King to handle the food prep and delivery.
Q: What's the best way to transport our BYOB supplies to the boat?
A: For optimal convenience, we suggest using a boat party alcohol delivery service like Party On Delivery. We can provide premium beverages, ice, and even insulated coolers to keep everything chilled and ready to serve. Plus, our team can handle the loading and unloading so you and your guests can focus on having fun.
Q: How far in advance should we book our boat party?
A: It's best to start planning your Austin boat party at least 2-3 months in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer and holidays. This will ensure you can secure the perfect boat rental, catering, and any other must-have vendors. The team at The Oasis on Lake Travis or Texas Party Boats can provide more guidance on booking timelines.
Conclusion
Ready to make waves with your next Austin 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. From classic Texas flavors to creative cocktails, we'll make sure your floating fiesta is the talk of the town. Cheers to smooth sailing and making unforgettable memories on the water!
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.
