When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Just For Fun: Pontoons & Party Barges
Why Just For Fun: Pontoons & Party Barges is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Just For Fun: Pontoons & Party Barges, a family-owned and operated business since 1987, offers the quintessential spot to gather with friends on Austin’s scenic Lake Travis. Known as the creator of the original party barge, this company features the largest fleet of pontoon boats and custom double-deck party barges available for rental. With the capacity to host up to 50 people, their party barges provide ample space for celebrations including birthdays, corporate outings, reunions, and any social event where fun and relaxation take center stage. Their boats come equipped with grills, tables, seating, radios, and depth finders to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Guests can enjoy sunny or shaded areas to suit their preference, making it an adaptable venue for any group size or occasion. Located at Emerald Point on Lake Travis, Just For Fun prides itself on professionalism, safety, and excellent customer service, making it a reliable and popular choice for watercraft rentals in the Austin area. Many renters appreciate the cleanliness, ease of handling the pontoons, and the added extras such as early bird specials and competitive pricing that offer great value for a memorable day on the water.
Here's what people think of Just For Fun: Pontoons & Party Barges
As of recent, Just For Fun: Pontoons & Party Barges holds a 4.5-star rating based on 634 reviews.
Customer reviews overwhelmingly praise Just For Fun: Pontoons & Party Barges for their outstanding customer service, well-maintained boats, and the fun atmosphere their rentals create. Positive feedback often highlights the spaciousness and cleanliness of the party barges and pontoons, with many guests noting the ample room for large groups and the thoughtful amenities such as grills, tables, and powerful engines suitable for pulling water toys. Reviewers frequently mention the friendly and helpful staff who make the rental process smooth and enjoyable. Many guests recount memorable parties and family outings on the lake, appreciating the flexibility of rental times and occasional discount offers like the early bird special.
Negative reviews tend to focus on smaller issues such as limited cup holders on the pontoons and occasional minor logistical challenges with boat availability during peak times. However, these points are relatively rare and do not detract significantly from the overall experience.
In conclusion, reviews reflect that Just For Fun consistently delivers a top-tier party boat rental experience on Lake Travis, with a strong reputation for professionalism and fun. The positives greatly outweigh any negatives, making it a trusted destination for lake parties and watercraft rentals in Austin, Texas.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ruby McKay
Fun on the Lake, But Extremely Unsafe Access to Dock Spending time on the lake with friends is always a good time, and our group had fun being out on the water. However, our overall experience with Just for Fun was disappointing and even dangerous. The parking situation is a mess. It’s a long, unorganized walk from the lot to the dock area — and what makes matters worse is that there’s no proper ramp or pathway to reach the dock. You’re forced to walk down a steep area filled with massive rocks and tall grass. With the water levels being low, the lack of infrastructure is even more of a problem. One of our family members, who is pregnant, twisted her ankle making her way down to the dock. Later, when we returned after sunset, the path was completely dark and still just as hazardous. Several people in our group stumbled — one even hit their head on the rocks. This could have ended in a very serious injury. For the amount of money they charge for boat rentals, you’d think safety would be a top priority. Just for Fun needs to invest in proper access to the dock — whether that’s extending it or installing a ramp or safer walkway. Until they do, I wouldn’t recommend this place to families or groups unless you’re fully prepared to risk injury just trying to get to and from the boat
Nischith Kundapur
Went on birthday party, but definitely recommend any kinda fun events here on one of their party barges, it was a great time. Nice clean griddle to cook on. The employees were great. The staff is friendly and they make sure you have everything you need. Everyone has a fantastic time. We will be renting again for another event in the future. I highly recommend this place.
Kévin Bretécher
Excellent experience! We celebrated the 50th birthday of a friend and we had a blast. The boat was perfect and the staff was super nice, gave us good recommendations on where to go to enjoy Lake Travis. Really recommend it!
Erin D
Great prices & a helpful staff . All of the boats were updated, well maintained & clean . The walk down from parking lot to the docks is long, steep & very rocky so be cautious.
Rj Simmons
My daughter rented a party barge for my sisters birthday and to break the monotony of our quarantine. We went on the sunset cruise on Lake Travis. It was just a few friends all over 50's and we had a exceptional time. I would recommend requesting Ella and Mark as your captain and crew as they were very helpful and amusing and the music they provided was perfect for our guests. There were 3 disabled folks on the boat and Ella and Mark were very solicitous toward us helping in so many ways that were not their responsibility. They even helped us get our ice chests and supplies back to our vehicles. I am aware that this is not in their job description but they sensed our need and stepped up although they did not have to help us. We could not have asked for a better crew as they made sure we all were taken care of and it was an amazing experience. We cannot thank them enough for all they did to ensure that we had a great time and stayed safe. We will be back and hopefully we can cruise with our now favorite boat crew.
Erin D
Great prices & a helpful staff . All of the boats were updated, well maintained & clean . The walk down from parking lot to the docks is long, steep & very rocky so be cautious.
Kévin Bretécher
Excellent experience! We celebrated the 50th birthday of a friend and we had a blast. The boat was perfect and the staff was super nice, gave us good recommendations on where to go to enjoy Lake Travis. Really recommend it!
Ruby McKay
Fun on the Lake, But Extremely Unsafe Access to Dock Spending time on the lake with friends is always a good time, and our group had fun being out on the water. However, our overall experience with Just for Fun was disappointing and even dangerous. The parking situation is a mess. It’s a long, unorganized walk from the lot to the dock area — and what makes matters worse is that there’s no proper ramp or pathway to reach the dock. You’re forced to walk down a steep area filled with massive rocks and tall grass. With the water levels being low, the lack of infrastructure is even more of a problem. One of our family members, who is pregnant, twisted her ankle making her way down to the dock. Later, when we returned after sunset, the path was completely dark and still just as hazardous. Several people in our group stumbled — one even hit their head on the rocks. This could have ended in a very serious injury. For the amount of money they charge for boat rentals, you’d think safety would be a top priority. Just for Fun needs to invest in proper access to the dock — whether that’s extending it or installing a ramp or safer walkway. Until they do, I wouldn’t recommend this place to families or groups unless you’re fully prepared to risk injury just trying to get to and from the boat
Nischith Kundapur
Went on birthday party, but definitely recommend any kinda fun events here on one of their party barges, it was a great time. Nice clean griddle to cook on. The employees were great. The staff is friendly and they make sure you have everything you need. Everyone has a fantastic time. We will be renting again for another event in the future. I highly recommend this place.
Rj Simmons
My daughter rented a party barge for my sisters birthday and to break the monotony of our quarantine. We went on the sunset cruise on Lake Travis. It was just a few friends all over 50's and we had a exceptional time. I would recommend requesting Ella and Mark as your captain and crew as they were very helpful and amusing and the music they provided was perfect for our guests. There were 3 disabled folks on the boat and Ella and Mark were very solicitous toward us helping in so many ways that were not their responsibility. They even helped us get our ice chests and supplies back to our vehicles. I am aware that this is not in their job description but they sensed our need and stepped up although they did not have to help us. We could not have asked for a better crew as they made sure we all were taken care of and it was an amazing experience. We cannot thank them enough for all they did to ensure that we had a great time and stayed safe. We will be back and hopefully we can cruise with our now favorite boat crew.
How to reach Just For Fun: Pontoons & Party Barges
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Why Just For Fun: Pontoons & Party Barges may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Just For Fun: Pontoons & Party Barges with your friends? If you’re looking for a perfect venue to gather friends or family for a memorable day, this business offers an unmatched experience on Lake Travis. With a stellar 4.5 rating from over 600 reviews, it's clear that Just For Fun has earned the trust and enthusiasm of countless visitors. The primary reason to choose this place is the unique combination of spacious watercraft, friendly staff, and the natural beauty of Lake Travis that creates an ideal setting for socializing, celebrating, and creating lasting memories. You’re not just renting a boat here; you’re stepping into a floating party haven designed to accommodate large groups comfortably. Whether it's a family reunion, a birthday bash, or a casual day out with friends, the atmosphere here encourages laughter, bonding, and relaxation away from the hustle of everyday life. Their long-standing reputation—over 30 years of service—adds a layer of reliability and expertise that ensures everything runs smoothly from check-in to the last wave goodbye.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Just For Fun: Pontoons & Party Barges? The business offers a diverse fleet including pontoon boats, ski boats, Waverunners, and the original party barges that can hold up to 50 guests. This means your group can pick whatever best suits your style—whether you want a calm cruise, water sports, or a lively floating party. Pontoon boats are perfect for casual cruising and family gatherings, featuring spacious decks and amenities like grills and seating areas that foster easy socializing. For groups looking for more adrenaline, the ski boats and Waverunners provide options for waterskiing, tubing, or just fast-paced fun on the lake. The highlight is the party barge, designed specifically for large groups who want to soak in the party spirit without worrying about space constraints. Equipped with tables, grills, and ample seating, the party barge is the go-to choice for reunions, birthdays, or any celebration where the vibe is just as important as the water. The boats are known for being clean, well-maintained, and outfitted with modern comforts like a radio and depth finder, ensuring both fun and safety for every outing.
Why is Just For Fun ideal for group meetups and large celebrations? One of the standout features is the sheer capacity of their party barges, which can hold up to 50 people comfortably—perfect for big groups that struggle to find a venue accommodating everyone at once. This eliminates the hassle of splitting your party and ensures everyone can enjoy the experience together. Moreover, the staff is highly praised for being friendly, professional, and eager to help make your event seamless. Many reviewers mention their helpfulness, such as guiding first-time boat renters with easy instructions and attentive service during the rental. The location at Emerald Point Marina on Lake Travis is considered prime real estate for lake activities, enhancing your meetup with stunning views and convenient access. The combination of a vast, scenic lake and well-equipped boats creates a festive but relaxed environment where people can eat, drink, play games, and swim, making it perfect for group bonding. Plus, just steps away, there’s a restaurant where your party can continue after the boat ride, giving additional flexibility to extend your celebration on land.
What makes the Just For Fun fleet particularly suited for fun and safety? Their vessels are noted for being very clean and well-maintained, which is critical when hosting groups who want to relax without worry. Reviewers have praised boats like their pontoons for being easy to operate, powerful enough to pull tubes, and featuring handy extras like radios for music and depth finders for navigation. This combination means you can have all the thrills of lake life with the assurance of safety and comfort. Another important aspect is their adaptive rental policies—like special weekday deals offering extra rental time for the price of fewer hours, which enhances value for groups with varied schedules. The company’s over three decades of experience reflects in the quality of their service and fleet, giving renters confidence that everything will function smoothly. Whether you’re an experienced boater or a first-time renter, Just For Fun’s staff guides you through the process with clear instructions, making sure your day goes without a hitch.
How does the environment at Just For Fun enhance your social experience? The natural beauty of Lake Travis is an intrinsic part of the appeal. The lake’s clear waters, scenic shorelines, and gentle breezes create a backdrop that’s both exhilarating and relaxing, allowing your group to connect with nature while having fun. On the water, your party is isolated from the noise and distractions of the city, making conversations, laughter, and shared activities more intimate and memorable. The layout of the party barges and pontoons encourages interaction with plenty of seating and common spaces for everyone to gather and mingle. Grilling on board is a unique perk that turns the excursion into a full culinary experience as well as a social one. Often groups find themselves reveling in the sunset over the lake, bonding over shared meals and music in a setting that feels like a private paradise. This connection to the outdoors combined with a communal party atmosphere makes Just For Fun a perfect venue for any group looking to strengthen relationships and celebrate together.
Why should you consider Just For Fun for your next family or friend reunion? Reunions need space, versatility, and a hassle-free environment, all of which this company provides. The pontoon boats and party barges are designed with large groups in mind, so you won’t feel cramped even with 40 or more guests aboard. The flexibility of choosing from multiple types of boats means your group can mix and match experiences—from leisurely cruises to action-packed water sports—all in one day. The attentive staff is also a major plus, helping with logistics and making recommendations based on your event size and preferences. Customers often comment on the memorable times they have on these boats, noting that the combination of fun on the water and excellent customer service ensures a repeat-worthy experience. Moreover, the convenient location and options for onshore dining nearby round out the day-of activities, allowing your reunion to go beyond just a boat ride into a full-day event that everyone will talk about for years to come.
What should groups expect from the booking and rental experience at Just For Fun? From reviews and official descriptions, the process is straightforward and user-friendly. The company’s website provides clear information on fleet options, pricing, and hours of operation, which are generous—from 9:00 am to 7:30 pm daily—allowing plenty of flexibility for scheduling. Walk-in reservations might be possible, but it’s advisable to book ahead, especially for popular boats like the party barge or weekend times. The friendly customer service team helps answer questions and navigate package deals, such as weekday discounts or extended rental hours. Check-in on arrival is described as smooth, with staff providing helpful guidance on boat operation and safety measures, even for those new to boating. You can expect a quick orientation and calm, professional staff ready to assist you during your rental if needed. This ease of booking and caring customer approach makes planning your meetup stress-free and enjoyable from start to finish.
In summary, Just For Fun: Pontoons & Party Barges is an exceptional choice to host meetups with friends or family due to its combination of spacious, well-maintained boats, a variety of water activities, beautiful lake surroundings, and dedicated customer service. Its reputation built on 30 years of consistent service and glowing 4.5-star reviews confirms that you will have a fantastic and memorable experience, ideal for celebrations big or small. Whether you want to lounge in the sun, grill aboard a party barge, or get your adrenaline fix with watersports, Just For Fun promises a fun and hassle-free day on the water for every group size.