FAQ

Nope! All you need is a valid photo ID proving you’re 21+.

Our dock crew will walk you through everything before you set off. Think of it like driving a golf cart on water. There’s a simple forward/reverse throttle, and the boats max out at 4 MPH.

Note: You must be at least 25 to drive our Duffy Boats.

We’re at 74 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78701.

Our check-in desk is behind Waller Creek Boathouse, right at the dock on the water.

We recommend arriving at least 15 minutes early for check-in!

Waller Creek Boathouse does not have public parking, so plan ahead and give yourself extra time!

Nearby garages:

• 99 Trinity St
• 201 E 2nd St
• 111 E Cesar Chavez St

Street parking is free on Sundays. Please do not park in the Waller Creek Boathouse staff lot.

Meters in the downtown area (IH-35 to Lamar Blvd, Lady Bird Lake to 10th St) are active: Mon-Tue 8am-6pm, Wed-Fri 8am-midnight, Sat 11am-midnight.

We provide complimentary speakers and umbrellas at the dock, but Austin sun is no joke.

We strongly recommend bringing water, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel or light blanket to sit on. 

During cooler months, a light jacket or blanket can make things much more comfortable out on the water. Don’t forget your phone either!

Kids are welcome aboard as long as a parent or guardian is on the boat and comfortable making the call. Children 13 and under are required to wear a life jacket while the boat is underway, and we carry sizes for everyone.

Note: Children are NOT allowed to drive the boats.

Unfortunately, due to the presence of blue-green algae in the waterway, we are no longer allowing dogs at this time.

We love our four-legged friends and take their safety seriously. We’ll update this policy if and when conditions change. Keep an eye on our site or reach out for the latest.

Yes. Life jackets are required and provided on every boat in all sizes, infant, youth, and adult. You’re also welcome to bring your own USCG-approved life jackets if you prefer, especially for little ones.

We don’t sell beverages, but you’re absolutely welcome to bring your own food and drinks! Keep everything in non-glass, reusable containers and a bag or small cooler.

Please avoid items that could stain the upholstery, like bronzer or heavily dyed clothing.

Our standard rental is 90 minutes. Check our online booking calendar for available times and to snag your spot.

The boats cruise at about 4 MPH. We follow all wake and speed guidelines on Lady Bird Lake to keep everyone safe and happy out there.

Yes, for everyone’s safety, boats must stay east of the First Street Bridge. We’ll hand you a detailed map and go over everything during your pre-departure walkthrough, so you’ll always know where you’re good to go. Please follow the route instructions carefully to avoid groundings.

Swimming and fishing off the boat are not allowed. Keep it to cruising and soaking up the scenery!

Yes, depending on availability! If you’re rolling with a crew and want multiple boats, here’s what to know:

• Boat insurance is mandatory ($20/boat, added during booking)
• A $200 safety deposit hold per boat is placed at the time of rental and released once the boats are returned in good shape

Please email us at info@retroboatsatx.com in advance so we can make sure everything lines up.

We accept all major credit cards.

And yes, virtual gift cards are available for purchase on our website.

Full refunds are only issued for severe weather, as determined by Retro Boats ATX.

We will call you in the case of cancellation due to inclement weather!

Cool or cloudy days don’t qualify, but honestly those can be some of the best times to be on the water. Bring a sweatshirt!

You can reschedule for free anytime. If you need to cancel, please give us a call at least 2 hours before your reservation as a courtesy.

For added flexibility, Cancellation Protection ($20) allows a full refund up to 1 hour before your reservation. Without the Cancellation Protection, we can offer a reschedule or a gift card.