Texans know that nothing beats the blistering heat quite like a lake day, but not everyone knows that this luxury can be enjoyed even if you do not own a boat. 

In fact, boat rentals are a growing option for those who do not want to commit to owning a boat but still want to get out on the water. 

According to a pandemic-influenced survey of 3,500 boaters by the nation’s premier on-water assistance provider Sea Tow Services International, boating is on the rise because it is a perfect way to enjoy summer activities while maintaining recommended social distancing. 

There are boat rental apps available to make your lake excursion easier by providing direct contact with nearby captains and boat owners, different watercraft to choose from and even recommended trip options. Dive head-first into summer fun with these two options.

GetMyBoat

GetMyBoat is the #1 boat rental app, and it offers everything from luxury yachts to budget kayak rentals so that everyone can locate something suitable for their water needs. This app helps users find and book boat rentals, jet skis, pontoon boats, and fishing charters for lakes all over Texas. They have over 350 boats available to rent or charter in hot spots like Lake Travis, Grapevine Lake, Galveston and throughout the state.

To Captain or Not — Your Choice

If taking the helm is not your cup of tea, captained experiences are available. One of their captains is Austin-based Austin Dubbs, owner of True North Charters. The process really doesn’t get much easier than working with Austin. He emails details and confirmation information, picks you up at the specified dock and facilitates a great day of play. With an easy-going demeanor, his aim is to make sure your daycation on the lake is one you’ll want to replicate (even offering 10% off your next charter).

Calling Boat Owners

For boat owners, GetMyBoat also caters to you. Local boat owners and captains who want to earn a side income off their watercraft when they aren’t using it can do so through the app.

Health & Safety

Staying healthy and safe is still crucial to GetMyBoat, so all boats for rent through the app are regularly cleaned and sanitized. GetMyBoat connects users directly with boat owners and captains to securely book online.

BoatSetter

BoatSetter is another boat rental app that offers various types of boats for users to choose from, depending on what you’re looking for and where. Their diverse fleet has options to get you off the dock and into the water, whether it’s for fishing or a luxury experience.

Certified Captains

Boatsetter offers renters and owners access to a database of US Coast Guard-certified captains, such as Captain Tom Langford. This is Tom’s fifth year as a captain on Lake Travis. He brings his passion and on-the-job knowledge/experience of the lake to another season of fantastic trips, whether it’s cruises, tour guides, towing with water toys and parties! He can be reached at [email protected].

Trip Ideas

Boatsetter also has a curated list of trip ideas for users to consider. From water sports on the Sam Rayburn Reservoir to swims and snorkeling in Laguna Madre and South Padre Island, a wide array of summer activities can be found through the app. 

Users can go through the app or online to connect with boat-owners and captains to schedule an adventure.

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Float On

A boat rental option out of Hurst Harbor Marina on Lake Travis, Float On is a great option for a relaxing day out on the water. With an easy online booking system, pick a date for your party and they’ll make the rest easy as pie on a pontoon. How about a 12-person Bentley Tritoon with Captain? This 4-hour rental ($595) is the prescription for relaxation. The day of, you’ll get a text from your captain and when you arrive in the marina, they’ll be a team of folks to take your items from your car all the way down to the boat dock. Choose to cruise around, swim, cliff jump or hop into one of the lakeside eateries for a bite.

Cover photo courtesy GetMyBoat

Marika Flatt is the Travel Editor of Texas Lifestyle Magazine and was named “Outstanding Austin Communicator” 2021 by Women Communicators of Austin. Flatt has been the voice of the Weekend Trip Tips on NPR’s Texas Standard for over three years and is a regular travel contributor to TV shows across the state.