Booking a pontoon boat rental in Austin usually comes down to one big decision first: single decker or double decker? Both boats are comfortable, beginner-friendly, and perfect for a day on Lake Travis or Lake Austin — but they’re built for slightly different groups, budgets, and vibes. Making the right call before you book saves you from either feeling cramped with a boat that’s too small, or paying for space you don’t need.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how the Single Decker and Double Decker pontoons compare — guest capacity, features, pricing, and which one fits different occasions — so you can book with confidence the first time.
Quick Comparison: Single Decker vs Double Decker
- Group size: Single Decker holds up to 10 guests. Double Decker holds up to 14.
- Layout: Single Decker is one open level. Double Decker adds an upper sun deck for extra space and views.
- Extra features: Double Decker includes a built-in water slide. Single Decker keeps things simple, lighter, and easier to maneuver.
- Best for: Single Decker suits couples, small families, and quieter cruises. Double Decker suits bigger groups, birthdays, and parties.
- Driving experience: Both are stable and beginner-friendly, but the Single Decker’s smaller footprint makes it slightly easier for first-time self-drivers.
- Included on both: life jackets, fuel, coolers, shade cover, and a Bluetooth sound system.
Single Decker Pontoon: Best for Small Groups and Relaxed Days
The Single Decker Pontoon Boat is smooth, stable, and roomy enough for up to 10 guests without feeling crowded. It’s the easier boat to drive yourself, which makes it a favorite for first-time renters, couples, and families who want a relaxed cruise rather than a high-energy party atmosphere.
Because it’s a single, open level, everyone stays together, which works well for groups who want to talk, eat, and relax as one unit rather than splitting between decks. It’s also a bit more budget-friendly than the Double Decker, which makes it a smart choice if you’re planning a shorter trip or watching your budget for the day.
- Comfortable lounge seating for up to 10 guests
- Shade canopy and swim ladder included
- Easy to drive — great for self-drive rentals and first-timers
- Perfect for a calm afternoon on Lake Austin or a quiet Lake Travis cove
- Lower price point for smaller groups or tighter budgets
Double Decker Pontoon: Best for Parties and Bigger Groups
The Double Decker Pontoon Boat is the boat most groups picture when they imagine a lake day party. With room for up to 14 guests, an upper sun deck for photos and tanning, and a built-in water slide, it’s the top pick for birthday parties, bachelorette trips, and family reunions.
The two-level layout means your group can spread out — some guests lounging in the shaded lower deck, others soaking up the sun on top, and a line forming for the water slide. It’s the better choice any time the goal is “party” rather than “quiet float,” and it gives photographers plenty of great vantage points for group shots.
- Room for up to 14 guests across two levels
- Built-in water slide and upper sun deck
- Shaded lower lounge for guests who want to stay cool
- Ideal for celebrations that need more space and more energy
- More photo opportunities thanks to the elevated upper deck
Which One Should You Choose?
If your group is 10 or fewer and you want an easy, relaxed day — swimming, sunbathing, and cruising at your own pace — the Single Decker is the simpler, more budget-friendly choice. If you’re planning a celebration, bringing a bigger group, or want the water slide and upper deck for photos, the Double Decker is worth the extra space.
Planning a family outing with grandparents and kids? Either boat works — it just depends on your group size and how much everyone wants to move around versus stay seated together. Not sure how many people will actually fit comfortably with gear and coolers? Check out our guide on how many people fit on a pontoon boat for a more detailed breakdown.
Does a Double Decker Cost More to Rent?
Generally, yes — the Double Decker’s larger size and extra features (the water slide and upper deck in particular) put it a notch above the Single Decker in price, though both stay competitive for Austin pontoon rentals. The price difference usually reflects the extra capacity and features rather than a dramatic jump, so it often comes down to whether you actually need the additional space.
For exact numbers and what affects pricing — like day of the week, season, and rental length — see our full breakdown on how much it costs to rent a boat, or click Book Now to see live pricing for your date.
Tips From Our Crew
If you’re torn between the two, think about how your group actually behaves on a lake day. Groups that like to sit together, eat, and chat tend to do just fine on a Single Decker. Groups planning to swim constantly, take a lot of photos, and use a water slide usually get more value from the Double Decker. If your headcount is right in the middle — around 10 to 12 — it’s worth booking the Double Decker so no one feels squeezed in in the later afternoon once people start spreading out gear, coolers, and towels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add a captain to either boat?
Yes. Both the Single Decker and Double Decker can be booked with an experienced local captain if you’d rather relax than drive.
Which boat is better for swimming?
Both boats come with a swim ladder, but the Double Decker’s water slide makes it the more popular choice for groups that plan to spend a lot of time in the water.
Can I switch boats after booking?
Availability changes by date, so it’s best to confirm your boat choice at booking. Contact us if you need to make a change.
Is the Double Decker harder to drive?
Not really — it’s larger, but still stable and beginner-friendly. Many renters self-drive the Double Decker with no prior boating experience.
Which boat is better for a sunset cruise?
Both work well, but the Single Decker’s smaller size makes it a slightly more intimate choice for couples watching the sunset, while the Double Decker’s upper deck gives larger groups a great view.
Ready to Book Your Pontoon Boat?
Whether you go Single Decker or Double Decker, you’ll get a clean, fully-equipped boat and a friendly local crew on Lake Travis or Lake Austin. Book Now to check live availability and pricing for your date.