Cruise Austin’s waterways aboard a vintage 1958 Beeline Sapphire boat and watch the sunset beneath the Congress Avenue Bridge as thousands of bats take flight. Discover a truly special, private adventure perfect for up to four passengers.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical effort required; suitable for all fitness levels as the boat is seated.
Wildlife
History
The Congress Avenue Bridge became famous for its bat colony in the 1980s and is now a vital urban habitat attracting fans and conservationists alike.
Conservation
Efforts by local groups help protect the urban bat population and waterway health, ensuring these natural spectacles continue for future generations.
Retro Boats ATX
Cruise Austin’s waterways aboard a vintage 1958 Beeline Sapphire boat and watch the sunset beneath the Congress Avenue Bridge as thousands of bats take flight. Discover a truly special, private adventure perfect for up to four passengers.
Retro Boats ATX operates retro boat rentals and guided cruises on Lady Bird Lake in Austin, Texas. The business offers a fleet of vintage 1958 vessels — including Vali IV, Glastron Fireflite, Beeline Sapphire, Lonestar Meteor, Glass Slipper, and the two classic boats Ethel and Trixie — for daily and sunset cruises that showcase the Austin skyline and waterways.
Trips accommodate small groups: most retro boats carry up to four passengers, while Blanche, a 21' Duffy Sun Cruiser, seats up to ten and includes 360° views, a shaded canopy, and a sundeck with a captain onboard to navigate. Bookings are captain-led and available as guided or private cruises on Lady Bird Lake; swimming and fishing are not allowed on these experiences.
Sunset cruises emphasize city views such as the Congress Avenue Bridge and the downtown skyline, and select boats pass near the urban bat colony beneath the bridge. One rare vessel, Edith, is a 1958 Glass Slipper — one of only twenty ever made — offering a distinctive historic experience. Retro Boats ATX emphasizes safety and authenticity by operating maintained classic boats with experienced captains to provide relaxed, nostalgic outings for families, couples, and small groups.
Reservations are accepted online and trips are suitable for birthdays, anniversaries, date nights, and small private events focused on relaxed sightseeing and vintage boating.
Location
Austin, Texas
Launches from Lady Bird Lake
Max Guests
4 / 10
Most boats seat 4; Blanche seats 10
Vintage Fleet
1958 Classics
Multiple authentic 1958 models
Rare Vessel
Glass Slipper: 1 of 20
Extremely limited production
Select a daily or sunset cruise on a 1958 classic and enjoy a captain-led vintage boating experience with memorable Austin skyline views.
Arrive Early for Best Seating
Getting to the dock 15 minutes before your departure time ensures you get the best spot on Batgirl for optimal views of the bridge and bats.
Bring a Light Jacket
Evenings on the water can get cool, especially after sunset, so a light jacket or sweater is recommended.
Limit Noise to Not Disturb Wildlife
Keep conversation and music levels low to avoid disturbing the bats and other local wildlife.
Use Bug Spray
Mosquitoes can be active near the water around sunset, so applying bug spray is advisable.
Light Jacket
Keeps you warm during cooler evenings on the water.
fall
Bug Spray
Protects against mosquitoes near the water at sunset.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the stunning sunset and bats flying beneath the bridge.
Sunglasses
Helpful during bright daylight and early evening light.
summer