Lake Travis Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to the Lake?
From Austin:
Emerald Point Marina is about 23 miles from Austin. To get there, take MO-Pac Expressway/TX-1-LOOP N for 3.9 miles and take the RM-2222/Northland Drive exit. Turn left onto FM-2222/RM-222 and remain on it for a little more than 8.5 miles. Take a left onto FM-620 and follow it for 5.2 miles (you'll pass Mansfield Dam). About a mile past Mansfield Dam, take a right at the Speedy Stop onto Hudson Bend Road. Take Hudson Bend for about 1.5 miles, then take the left fork onto Rocky Ridge Road. Take a quick right onto Hiline Road.
You'll be in the marina complex at this point. Carlos'N Charlie's restaurant will be on your left. Pass it and look for Emerald Point's office on your right. It'll be in front of the Ship's Store.
Click here to view a map of the Lake Travis area.
When do I pick up the boat?
The boats can be picked up at 9 AM and are due back by 6 PM.
How many people are allowed on the boat?
Maximum capacity on any of the houseboats is 15. Pricing is based on 10 passengers and anyone over that up to the maximum of 15 is $20 per person.
What will the temperatures be like on my trip?
The lake is warm from mid-summer through late fall and pleasantly cool in the shoulder seasons. Winter and early to mid-spring water temperatures are too cold for extended swimming without a wetsuit. View a month-by-month list of temperatures here.
How difficult is driving a houseboat?
Driving a houseboat is different than driving a car, but is not that difficult. The marina staff will walk you through driving the boat when you pick it up. Most people get the hand of maneuvering the boat within a few minutes.
If you’re concerned about your ability to handle the boat, you may arrange for a captain to guide you out of the marina or drive you to a specific destination on the lake.
What is the billing schedule?
Half of the rental fee is due at the time of booking. The remaining half is due 30 days prior to your trip.
How do I check availability or reserve a houseboat?
Give us a call at 888-454-8825, and one of our reservation agents will be happy to check availability for you. It’s helpful if you already have an idea of when you want to go and what boat you’re most interested in when you call.
Alternatively, you can contact us online with your availability request, and one of our agents will be happy to get back to you with the information you need.
How early do I need to reserve?
Lake Travis is a very popular. Some of our boats have been known to book out more than two years in advance. The earlier the better is a good rule to follow, particularly if you have an exact date in mind for your trip, or if you’re planning a trip over a holiday weekend.
However, if you’re flexible with your dates or the exact houseboat model, we can almost always find a trip for you even a few weeks before hand.
Are linens included with my houseboat rental?
Yes, linens are provided on all boats.
Are pets allowed on my houseboat?
The marina cannot allow pets of any kind. You will need to find alternative accommodations for your pets.
Where is the nearest grocery store so I can stock up before my trip?
There is a convenience store right at the marina. For all of your grocery needs, the nearest grocery stores will be found in Lakeway, Texas.
How old do you have to be to rent the houseboats?
All renters must be 21 with a valid drivers license.
Do I need a license to operate the houseboats, or is a skipper provided?
There is no special license needed to operate our houseboats. There are rules for operating houseboats on the waterways, and we will explain them to you upon your arrival.
Will I get seasick on a houseboat?
Houseboats are on pontoons and there is very little motion. Seasickness is basically unheard of on fresh water.
What is the best time of year to go houseboating?
It is always a good time to go houseboating! Summer is the most popular and busiest season. Fall offers Indian Summer days and cooler nights. Springtime is good for viewing abundant wildflowers, waterfalls, and wildlife. Winter is favorable for the anglers, when fishing is at its best. And the rates are significantly lower between September and May.
Can I fish from the houseboat?
Yes. If you are 17 years or older you need a license. Largemouth bass are the popular catch in Lake Travis, but are only one species in the water. Catfish, bluegill, crappie and Guadalupe bass are all present in healthy numbers. The marina stores sell a good variety of bait and tackle for optimizing your chances of catching fish, whether you’re a novice or an expert.
