Austin Tour Company River Floats & Brunch Boats in Austin TX - Austin

Austin Tour Company River Floats & Brunch Boats in Austin TX

Austineasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to sit for extended periods and basic swimming comfort.

Overview

Discover a new way to enjoy Austin’s waterways with Austin Tour Company’s river floats and brunch boat adventures. Perfect for casual floaters and lively groups alike, these experiences reveal a fresh side of Texas outdoor recreation.

Details

Austin, Texas, is a city where outdoor culture thrives against a backdrop of limestone cliffs, winding rivers, and vibrant urban life. At the heart of its water recreation scene, Austin Tour Company offers a unique blend of guided river floats and lively boat tours that bring the city’s natural and social energy into perfect balance. Their standout trips include public river floats available Sunday through Friday on the San Marcos and Guadalupe Rivers, famed for emerald water threading through freshwater springs and limestone banks. These floats provide a laid-back yet invigorating way to experience Central Texas’s abundant aquatic scenery and native wildlife.

But Austin Tour Company’s offerings don’t stop at rivers. The Big Gay River Float with bus service from Austin provides convenient transportation and access to a themed float experience celebrated for its inclusive, energetic vibe that fits Austin’s reputably progressive culture. Meanwhile, the Drag Queen Bingo Brunch Boat reinvents river tours with a spirited midday cruise featuring drag performances and interactive bingo games, combining entertainment with the refreshing breeze of Lake Austin or Lady Bird Lake (location specifics vary).

The company’s approachable style and well-orchestrated logistics set them apart from typical float rentals or tour buses. Guests regularly praise their friendly, knowledgeable staff and smooth booking process, highlighting guides like Brett and Maria who enhance comfort on the river or the road. Though some logistical hiccups have been noted, many enjoy the BYOB flexibility and the chance to share these experiences with friends or coworkers seeking a memorable day outdoors in a metropolitan setting.

Austin Tour Company taps into the city’s adventurous spirit by providing both classic river float excitement and alternative aquatic social experiences, making it a must-try for visitors looking to combine outdoor relaxation with vibrant local culture. Whether drifting downstream or cruising the lake with bubbles and bingo, their trips serve as an accessible gateway to Austin’s unique blend of nature and nightlife.

Adventure Tips

Bring Water and Sun Protection

Austin’s Texas sun is strong; stay hydrated and apply sunscreen to prevent sunburn while on the river or boat.

BYOB is Welcome, Plan Responsibly

Most floats and boats allow BYOB—bring your preferred beverages but follow safety and local laws for a fun day.

Arrive Early for Check-in

Give yourself extra time for check-in and boarding, especially on busy weekends or themed events like the brunch boat.

Dress for Water and Comfort

Wearing quick-dry clothes and water shoes will make your float or boat ride more comfortable and safer.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Devil’s Backbone scenic overlook near the river float route
  • Mayfield Park and Preserve for a quiet stroll before or after your trip

Wildlife

  • Great blue heron
  • River otters

History

Austin grew up alongside the Colorado River, which locals have long relied on for recreation and respite from Texas heat.

Conservation

Maintaining clean waterways is a priority; visitors are encouraged to pack out all trash and respect wildlife habitats to preserve river health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Mid-morning
Late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Cliffs along the San Marcos River
  • Lady Bird Lake shoreline
  • Boat deck during brunch events

What to Photograph

Flowing river landscapes
Colorful drag performances
Wildlife such as herons and turtles

Recommended Gear

Sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin from UV exposure during long hours on open water.

summer specific

Water Shoes

Essential

Provides grip and foot protection on slippery or rocky shorelines during floats and hikes to launch points.

summer|spring|fall specific

Reusable Water Bottle

Essential

Keeps you hydrated throughout your float or boat tour.

Light Rain Jacket

Helps keep you dry during unexpected showers common in transitional seasons.

spring|fall specific