THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Glide across Lady Bird Lake on the vintage 1958 Tomahawk boat Janis and enjoy Austin's stunning skyline at sunset. Create lasting memories on this private, nostalgic cruise with Retro Boats ATX.
Glide across Lady Bird Lake on the vintage 1958 Tomahawk boat Janis and enjoy Austin's stunning skyline at sunset. Create lasting memories on this private, nostalgic cruise with Retro Boats ATX.
Book with Retro Boats ATX
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Retro Boats ATX · Austin, Texas
Discover the charm of Austin from a unique vantage point aboard the Ethel Retro Boat Sunset Cruise. Set sail on Lady Bird Lake behind the wheel of Janis, a beautifully preserved 1958 Tomahawk boat, offering a nostalgic yet smooth ride through calm waters. As the sun dips below the horizon, you'll witness the Austin skyline come alive with twinkling lights, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your evening. This private experience with Retro Boats ATX is perfect for couples, friends, or small groups seeking a peaceful escape on the water without the hustle of larger crowds. Along the way, relax to the gentle breeze and take in the rich natural beauty surrounding Lady Bird Lake, including oak-lined banks and city parks. The retro style of Janis combined with modern comforts makes for a cozy, intimate vibe, ideal for making new memories or celebrating special moments. Whether you're a local wanting a fresh perspective on your city or a visitor exploring Austin’s highlights, this sunset cruise offers a serene adventure that blends history, nature, and city life effortlessly.
easy.
1.5–2 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels since the cruise is relaxed and seated, requiring minimal physical exertion.
The Ethel Retro Boat Sunset Cruise is a private charter, perfect for couples or small groups.
The Tomahawk vintage boat accommodates up to 6 passengers comfortably.
You are welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks, as the boat does not provide refreshments.
Cancellations up to 48 hours before the cruise result in a full refund. Weather cancellations are fully refunded regardless of timing.
Due to the vintage design and boat size, it is not fully wheelchair accessible.
Pets are permitted on board but must be well-behaved and accompanied by their owner.
Lady Bird Lake was created in the 1960s as a reservoir in Austin’s Colorado River and named to honor Lady Bird Johnson for her environmental efforts.
Retro Boats ATX supports sustainable boating practices by limiting fuel emissions and educating visitors on preserving aquatic habitats around Lady Bird Lake.
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