How to Plan the Perfect Bachelorette Party on Lake Travis

Austin has become one of the top bachelorette party destinations in the country, and a boat day on Lake Travis is the highlight of any Austin bachelorette weekend. Here is how to plan a day the bride will never forget.

Step 1: Pick Your Boat

For bachelorette parties, you want a boat with great vibes. Our top picks:

King Kong (24 guests) — The ultimate bachelorette boat. Double-decker with water slide, upper deck for dancing and photos, and the best sound system in our fleet.

Barbie (13 guests) — Named after the icon herself. Perfect for intimate bachelorette groups who want a themed vibe.

Pink Pony Club (13 guests) — Another crowd favorite for bride squads. Great for groups of 10-13.

Step 2: Choose Your Timing

Most bachelorette groups book a 4-hour afternoon trip (12 PM - 4 PM or 1 PM - 5 PM). This gives you the morning to brunch, the afternoon on the lake, and the evening for dinner on Rainey Street or 6th Street.

For a sunset experience, book 3 PM - 7 PM in summer — you will catch golden hour on the water, which makes for incredible photos.

Step 3: What to Bring

• Matching swimsuits or coverups (the photos will be amazing)

• "Bride" sash, tiara, or hat for the guest of honor

• Drinks — champagne, seltzers, mixed drinks (no glass! use cans or plastic)

• Snacks — cheese boards, fruit, chips travel well on boats

• Bluetooth playlist — make a collaborative Spotify playlist beforehand

• Sunscreen — you will be in the sun for hours

• A waterproof phone case — protect those photos!

Step 4: Plan the Perfect Timeline

11:00 AM — Brunch in downtown Austin or South Congress

12:30 PM — Drive to the marina (30 minutes from downtown)

1:00 PM — Board the boat, safety briefing, set up music

1:30 PM — Cruise to a scenic cove, start swimming and floating

3:00 PM — Hit the water slide, lily pads, and cliff jumping spots

4:30 PM — Sunset cruise back to the marina

5:00 PM — Return to the dock

7:00 PM — Dinner on Rainey Street

Best Photo Spots

Your captain will know the most photogenic spots, but ask specifically about the limestone cliffs on the north shore — the golden hour light hitting those cliffs creates a stunning backdrop. The upper deck of the King Kong is also an incredible photo location with 360-degree views.

Pro Tips

• Book 2+ weeks in advance for summer weekends

• Assign one person to handle logistics (booking, food, playlist)

• Captain gratuity is customary (15-20%) — you can Venmo, Zelle, or cash

• Have the bride board last for a surprise reveal if the group sets up decorations