About
The Texas summer is cranking out the heat, and you're looking for some fun in the sun that is refreshing, invigorating, and won't break the bank.
If this is you, I suggest you look into Riviera Marina Party Barges. Picture you and 49 of your family or friends cruising around Lake Travis on a double-decker barge. You'll either be on Big Bird, Elmo, or Cookie Monster, and aside from the colors, each boat is identical.
The nice thing about this excursion is that Riviera Marina provides everything you'll need for a memorable experience on the water:
- Licensed captain and crew
- Grill, utensils, propane
- Bluetooth or AUX sound system
- Adult life jackets
- Swimming noodles
- (1) 120-quart ice chest (ice not provided)
- Marine restroom
- (1) 6ft folding table
- 50 chairs
- Tube Slide from the upper deck
Once you've booked your party barge, remind your guests how time-consuming loading and departing the harbor is. You must factor in parking, hauling coolers, using the restroom, and other necessities that could rob you of valuable water time.
What I like about the double-decker barge is that the lower level is covered, providing cool shade when the sun becomes unbearable. Sun worshippers can lather on the oils and head up top for primo sunshine!
Our boat was clean and shipshape, and our captain ensured safety was "job one" but wasn't overly strict, either. We even dropped anchor near an island for a relaxing time floating and exploring. And while we were having the time of our lives, our captain was grilling our meal!
Fun Facts and Cool Features
Aside from offering party barge excursions, Riviera Marina is a boat and water lovers' playground. And since they're a hop and a skip from North Austin, you can enjoy the water in no time!
If you live in the Austin area and own a boat, consider using their dry-stack boat storage. Your vessel stays safe and dry out of the water, and attendees can have it fueled and in the water an hour after you call. When you return to the dock, Riviera Marina will put your boat back in dry stack storage until your next adventure.
Another option for boat owners is renting a slip for easy access to Lake Travis. Slips vary in size to accommodate any boat, and rental agreements range from daily, monthly, seasonal, and annual rates.
Maybe you're considering owning a boat but want to test-drive one first. Or perhaps you're from out of town looking for a fun day on the lake. Whichever category you fall into, Riviera Marina has a boat you can rent that meets the bill. They have quality ski boats, pontoons, runabouts, and jet skis. And if you don't feel comfortable or you're not qualified to drive, ask about having a Riviera Marina driver tag along.
Are you looking for something on the water that's more chill? An activity where you can relax and enjoy nature and the water? Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard. With easy access to Cypress Creek Cove, kayaking and paddleboarding is fun for the whole family.
Getting There
Getting to the Riviera Marina is easy. We've provided some directions below:
- Get on TX-1 Loop North
- Follow to Northland Drive
- Take RM 2222/Northland Drive Exit
- Take Ranch to Market 2222 W to FM2769
- Follow until reaching the marina entrance at 14297 Farm to Market 2769 Leander, TX 78641
Cost
All pricing reflects a 4-hour minimum. Additional hours are $275 if available.
- Monday-Friday $987.24 (pick your time slot)
- Saturday (11:00 AM-3 PM or 3:30-7:30 PM) $987.24
- Sunday (11:00 AM-3 PM or 3:30-7:30 PM) $1,620.90
Local Tips
- Don't forget to bring towels and lake necessities like sunscreen and water.
- Alcohol is allowed on board as long as the person reserving the boat is 21. Keep in mind jello shots and trashcan punch are not allowed.
- Take your time to read over the contract so you focus on the fun once you get there. Remember, it's there to protect both you and the marina.
- There are no cancellations, and you pay in full when making a reservation so double check weather and your calendar as best as you can.