THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Cruise Austin’s waters aboard Dorothy, a rare 1959 Glass Slipper boat rental. Experience a cozy, private adventure on this vintage vessel perfect for friends, family, and pups.
Cruise Austin’s waters aboard Dorothy, a rare 1959 Glass Slipper boat rental. Experience a cozy, private adventure on this vintage vessel perfect for friends, family, and pups.
Book with Retro Boats ATX
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Retro Boats ATX · Austin, Texas
Step aboard Dorothy, one of only 20 Glass Slipper boats ever built in 1959, for a private and unforgettable cruise on Austin's beautiful waters. Offered by Retro Boats ATX, this unique rental experience is perfect for groups of up to four adults seeking a charming and relaxed outing. With its vintage aesthetic and classic design, Dorothy offers more than just a boat ride — it delivers a nostalgic journey back to an iconic era of boating. Enjoy the gentle Texas breeze, scenic shoreline, and quiet coves while spending quality time with friends, family, or your furry companion, as Dorothy is dog-friendly. Whether you're a local or visiting Austin, this peaceful cruise provides a refreshing alternative to crowded tour boats and a rare chance to pilot a historic vessel. Perfect for special occasions or casual escapes, the Dorothy Retro Boat promises a memorable day on the water blending history, comfort, and natural beauty.
easy.
2–4 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required.
Yes! Dorothy is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your pup along for the cruise.
Dorothy comfortably fits up to four adults, ensuring a cozy and private experience.
No boating license is required, but Retro Boats ATX will provide a safety briefing and instructions.
Dorothy does not have onboard restroom facilities; nearby shore amenities are recommended before your trip.
Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance to avoid fees; please check Retro Boats ATX’s current policy for details.
Yes, life jackets are provided and required for all passengers, including children.
The Glass Slipper boats were iconic recreational vessels known for their sleek design and rarity, with Dorothy being a preserved example of 1950s watercraft craftsmanship in Austin.
Retro Boats ATX supports environmental stewardship by promoting clean boating practices to protect the fragile aquatic ecosystems in Austin’s waterways.
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.
Book with Retro Boats ATX