Question 1

How can I make a reservation for a boat/watercraft with Blue Ox Boat Rentals?

Accepted Answer

To make a reservation with Blue Ox Boat Rentals, simply click the "BOOK NOW" button from within the website and follow the instructions. Please be aware that full payment is due at the time of the reservation.  
If you have any questions or need assistance with the booking process, feel free to contact our customer service team, and we will be happy to help. We look forward to providing you with a wonderful boating experience.

PLEASE NOTE: Per Texas Parks & Wildlife anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 wishing to operate any vessel over 15 hp on public waters, which includes all our boats and wave runners, is required to complete a Texas Boater Education Course and keep a copy of their certification with them while operating the vessel.

Follow this link for Boater Education online courses: 
https://tpwd.texas.gov/education/boater-education

Question 2

Does Blue Ox Boat Rentals provide a captain to drive the boat?

Accepted Answer

Not at this time, however it is our goal to have captains in the near future. Currently, you are responsible for captaining (driving) the boat during your rental experience.

PLEASE NOTE: Per Texas Parks & Wildlife anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 wishing to operate any vessel over 15 hp on public waters, which includes all our boats and wave runners, is required to complete a Texas Boater Education Course and keep a copy of their certification with them while operating the vessel.

Follow this link for Boater Education online courses: 
https://tpwd.texas.gov/education/boater-education

Question 3

Does Blue Ox Boat Rentals provide any discounts for completing the Boat Safety Course?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) Boat Safety Course regulation* applies to the renter of one of our boats or wave runners, Blue Ox Boat Rentals will discount the fee associated with the completion of the course off of the next rental. The discount is only applicable to the original renter and redeemable one time only. 
Please provide documentation of course completion when making your next reservation to receive the discount. 
Thank you for choosing Blue Ox Boat Rentals and for being a responsible boater.

*Per Texas Parks & Wildlife anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 wishing to operate any vessel over 15 hp on public waters, which includes all our boats and wave runners, is required to complete a Texas Boater Education Course and keep a copy of their certification with them while operating the vessel.

Follow this link for Boater Education online courses: 
https://tpwd.texas.gov/education/boater-education

Question 4

What is the minimum number of hours that I can rent a boat or a Wave Runner from Blue Ox Boat Rentals?

Accepted Answer

The minimum rental time for boats is 4 hours, and the minimum rental time for wave runners is 2 hours. Additionally, we offer full-day rentals for those who want to spend an extended period of time on the water.

Question 5

I will have more people than the legal capacity of the boat. Can I rotate additional guests on and off the boat after checkout?

Accepted Answer

No. Blue Ox Boat Rentals does not permit any additional guests on the boat after checkout. This policy is in place to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers on board as well as to comply with the boat's weight capacity limit. We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable experience on the water. Please make sure to accurately communicate the number of guests who will be on the boat at the time of booking. Our boats have a maximum capacity, and it's crucial to adhere to this to avoid accidents or incidents on the water.

Question 6

Does Blue Ox Boat Rentals include gas in their rental prices?

Accepted Answer

Yes. GAS IS ALWAYS INCLUDED!! 
You don't have to worry about any extra fees for gasoline. We want to make sure that all customers have a smooth and stress-free experience on the Lake, so we take care of the gas for you. Whether you're renting a boat for a fun day out with family and friends, or for a peaceful solo adventure, we want to ensure that you have everything you need to make the most of your time on the water.

Question 7

Does the boat have a stereo/radio?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Blue Ox Boat Rentals offers boats equipped with both AM/FM stereo and Bluetooth capabilities, so you can easily play your favorite tunes while out on the water. We understand that part of the fun of boating is enjoying the scenery while listening to music, so we want to ensure our customers have everything they need for a great day out on the Lake.

Question 8

How do I cancel the reservation?

Accepted Answer

Contact Blue Ox Boat Rentals at 936-628-5000.
Non-Holiday:
If the cancellation is made at least 8 days prior to the day of the reservation you will receive a full refund. 
If the cancellation is made prior to 48 hours (and less than 8 days) of the reservation you will receive a 50% refund. 
Holiday/Holiday Weekend:
If the cancellation is made at least 31 days prior to the day of the reservation you will receive a full refund. 
If the cancellation is made prior to 48 hours (and less than 30 days) of the reservation you will receive a 50% refund.

All cancellations (Holiday or Non-Holiday) made within 48 hours of the reservation will receive a 30 day credit from the original reservation rate to use toward a future reservation.  The credit will expire if not used 30 days after the original reservation date.

Question 9

What is the policy for late arrivals?

Accepted Answer

We understand that unexpected delays or issues may arise, and we are committed to working with our customers to accommodate their needs. If you are running late for your reservation, we kindly ask that you give us a call to notify us. If your delay is no more than 30 minutes, we will hold your reservation. However, if you are more than 30 minutes late without contacting us, your reservation will be cancelled without credit. Additionally, if you do arrive late for your reservation, please note that you will not be allotted additional time to make up for the time lost. 
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation with this policy, as it allows us to efficiently manage our bookings and provide the best experience for all of our customers.

Question 10

What do I do if I have a reservation and there is bad weather?

Accepted Answer

If you have any concerns regarding the weather on the day of your outing, please contact Blue Ox Boat Rentals (936-628-5000) for any possible changes to your reservation.

If there is inclement weather (storms with high winds, lightening, and/or thunder) at the time of your reservation and we cancel your outing, you will be contacted and provided an option of a refund or a credit. If there is inclement weather during your outing and we call you back to the dock, cancelling your outing, you will be provided a partial credit for the time unused.

Question 11

What happens if I am late returning the watercraft rental?

Accepted Answer

If you are late returning the watercraft rental, there will be a charge of $50 for every 15 minutes the watercraft is not returned to the dock, with no exceptions. We ask that you please plan your rental time accordingly to avoid any additional charges. If you have any concerns about returning the watercraft on time, please feel free to contact our team for assistance or guidance.

Question 12

Am I responsible for cleaning the watercraft?

Accepted Answer

We take pride in providing our customers with clean and well-maintained watercraft for their enjoyment. To ensure that every customer has a positive experience, we ask that all rented watercraft be returned in the same clean condition, with all trash picked up and the watercraft is free of any debris or mess. Failure to do so may result in a minimum $75 cleaning fee to be applied to the costs of restoring the watercraft to its original state.
We appreciate your cooperation in keeping our watercraft in great condition for all our customers to enjoy.

Question 13

Are the watercraft in the water or do they require trailering?

Accepted Answer

Renting a boat from Blue Ox Boat Rentals is a straightforward process. All of our watercrafts are housed in a marina, in a slip, and do not require trailering.

Question 14

Am I allowed to take the rented watercraft off Lake Livingston?

Accepted Answer

No, absolutely not. The watercraft must remain on Lake Livingston within the agreed upon area.
Blue Ox Boat Rentals has a strict policy that prohibits taking our watercraft off of Lake Livingston to other bodies of water. This policy ensures the safety of the watercraft, as well as compliance with local regulations and restrictions. It also helps to maintain the quality and condition of the watercraft, ensuring that they continue to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all renters. Thank you for respecting and adhering to this policy. If you have any questions about this policy or need further clarification, please don't hesitate to contact our team for assistance.

Question 15

Can I keep the watercraft rental overnight?

Accepted Answer

No, the watercraft may not be kept after dusk, including overnight. Our rental hours are from sunrise to sunset for the safety and security of both our customers and our equipment. We want to ensure that all watercraft are returned in a timely manner, allowing us to maintain and inspect them properly for the next rental. 
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in adhering to our rental hours.

Question 16

What is a damage waiver?

Accepted Answer

The $79.00 damage waiver is a non-refundable fee that covers up to $500.00 in accidental damage. For example, if you are in the Lake and hit a floating piece of debris causing damage to watercraft, which can be as little as $400 to repair, it would be covered under the damage waiver. Any negligent behavior that causes damages voids the damage waiver.

Question 17

Can I bring my own food, water, and soft drinks on the boat rental?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you are more than welcome to bring your own food and beverages onto the boat rental. However, we kindly ask that you do not bring any glass containers. It is also important to note that grilling is not allowed on the boat rental for safety purposes. So, please plan accordingly when bringing food.

Question 18

Can I rent a boat for fishing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer a range of boats equipped with fish finders, live wells, and other fishing necessities. However, we recommend contacting us before booking your rental to discuss your specific fishing needs and ensure we provide the best possible boat for your experience. 
Please note that fishing licenses are required within in the State of Texas.

Frequently asked questions

How can I make a reservation for a boat/watercraft with Blue Ox Boat Rentals?

Does Blue Ox Boat Rentals provide a captain to drive the boat?

Does Blue Ox Boat Rentals provide any discounts for completing the Boat Safety Course?

What is the minimum number of hours that I can rent a boat or a Wave Runner from Blue Ox Boat Rentals?

I will have more people than the legal capacity of the boat. Can I rotate additional guests on and off the boat after checkout?

Does Blue Ox Boat Rentals include gas in their rental prices?

Does the boat have a stereo/radio?

How do I cancel the reservation?

What is the policy for late arrivals?

What do I do if I have a reservation and there is bad weather?

What happens if I am late returning the watercraft rental?

Am I responsible for cleaning the watercraft?

Are the watercraft in the water or do they require trailering?

Am I allowed to take the rented watercraft off Lake Livingston?

Can I keep the watercraft rental overnight?

What is a damage waiver?

Can I bring my own food, water, and soft drinks on the boat rental?

Can I rent a boat for fishing?