Frequently Asked Questions about
The Sunshine Machine

Booking & Availability

  • We are set apart from our competition with:
    - A killer indoor/outdoor sound system
    - Bathroom & changing room on board
    - Captained, two person crew
    - 3 versatile outdoor decks
    - Indoor lounge spaces

  • You can book directly through our website here. We recommend booking in advance although last minute availability does occur.


  • We offer flexible scheduling from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week. Popular times include weekend mornings (10-2PM), afternoon cruises (2-6pm), and sunset experiences (varies seasonally typically starting after 6pm). We do limited charters a day depending on their length of 2, 3, 4 or 6 hours. Custom charter lengths are case-by-case.

  • The Sunshine Machine can host up to 20 guests. For optimal comfort and experience, we recommend:

    - Dining experiences: 2-12 guests
    - Corporate events: 4-20 guests
    - Wellness sessions: up to 10 participants
    - Swimming day: up to 20 guests

Experience & Amenities

  • At 50 feet in length with multiple decks, our vessel offers generous space for both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations, comfortably accommodating up to 20 guests while maintaining plenty of room to move and relax.

  • Every charter includes:
    - Professional two-person crew
    - Premium sound system with Bluetooth connectivity
    - Indoor living-room style space
    - Clean restroom and changing facilities
    - Fresh water and ice
    - Basic safety equipment
    - Swimming accessories

  • Yes, you're welcome to bring your own food and beverages. We are BYOB. 

    We also can offer:
    - Charcuterie and snack boards
    - Preferred caterer recommendations
    - Bar service vendor arrangements
    - Special occasion catering
    - Chef-prepared experiences
    - Coffee and tea service
    - Non-alcoholic refreshments
    - Stocking the mini-fridge

  • Absolutely! We specialize in:

    - Birthday celebrations for 2 to 20
    - Anniversary celebrations
    - Corporate retreats
    - Wellness sessions
    - Brand activations
    - Photo shoots
    - Intimate gatherings
    - Holiday events

  • The Sunshine Machine boat covers gas costs as part of our fee. There will not be any changes in your booked outing rate as gas fluctuates prior to your outing date.

  • A tip is not included in your base fee. It is not required, but it is greatly appreciated by the captain and crew who will be hosting you during your lake outing.

Location & Access

  • We're docked at Ski Shores Marina on Lake Austin however pickup areas are determined at time of booking based on selected charter experience and day of the week. Lake Austin rules for corporate pickups are tricky, so we plan in advance based on your needs. Kindly don’t show up without confirmation.

Weather & Seasonal Cancelation

  • Weather does happen from time to time in Texas. We do have ample indoor space as well as some covered areas, so unless it's unsafe, we will continue with your charter. We do not cancel based on the forecast, any weather cancellations will occur shortly before the charter time.

    For cancellations due to unsafe weather conditions:

    • Captain's Discretion: All weather-related cancellations are at the captain's discretion, based on safety considerations. We monitor weather conditions closely and will notify you of cancellations as early as possible. It is unsafe for us to depart the dock when the weather is lightening, hailing, or wind is exceeding 20 MPH sustained, or 25 MPH gusts.

    • Rescheduling Option: In the event of a weather cancellation, you will be offered the opportunity to reschedule your charter within 6 months of the original date, subject to availability.

    • No Cash Refunds: Weather is beyond our control, and we maintain operational costs regardless of weather conditions. Therefore, we do not offer cash refunds for weather cancellations.

    • If Charter has already begun: If inclement weather occurs during a charter and the captain deems it unsafe and ends the charter, no refunds will be made, and no credit will be issued.

  • It is unsafe for us to depart the dock when the weather is lightening, hailing, or wind is exceeding 20mph sustained or 25mph gusts. We actively monitor weather conditions and will:
    - Communicate any concerns 24 hours in advance
    - Cancelations may be made until the time of charter time with unforeseen weather circumstances
    - Provide weather alternatives when possible
    - Offer flexible rescheduling options through a 6 month period
    - Ensure your safety is our priority
    **We do not issue refunds for weather cancelations

  • Our booking period can range between 48 hours in advance if available to 4 months. Some of our seasons fill up quickly so we recommend booking in advance when possible.

    Each season offers unique experiences:
    Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures and quieter seasonality
    Summer (June-August): Hot days, perfect for swimming, book early
    Fall (September-November): Ideal conditions, popular season, book early
    Winter (December-February): Cool evenings, holiday events

Safety & Comfort

  • Our boat is best equipped for over the age of 13. At this time we do not allow children under 13 on the boat with our open decks and limited crew.

  • We maintain the highest safety standards by providing:

    • Safety debriefing

    • Yearly State inspected

    • Professional crew

    • Life jackets in all sizes

    • Protected seating areas

    • Stable multi-level design

    • Clear safety protocols

  • We recommend:
    - Swimwear and towels if planning to swim
    - Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
    - Light layers for evening cruises
    - Soft-soled shoes

Heritage & History

  • The Sunshine Machine was built in 1966 in Corpus Christi Texas and has been a Lake Austin icon since the 1980’s. It’s previous owners Tom & Wendy poured decades of love and time into it’s preservation and restoration. In 2025, under new ownership, small aesthetic and preventative maintenance have been initiated to maintain the boat's classic charm while offering more modern amenities and comfort for today’s guests needs. 

  • We offer:

    - Historic 1966 vessel with modern amenities
    - Premium hospitality-focused experience
    - Multiple indoor and outdoor spaces
    - Customizable experiences
    - Professional crew
    - Lake Austin heritage
    - Upscale service level

Cancellation Policy

    • Cancellations made 30+ days before scheduled charter: Full refund of your deposit. Any booking fees will not be refunded.

    • Cancellations made 14-29 days before scheduled charter: 50% of your deposit will be refunded. Any booking fees will not be refunded.

    • Cancellations made less than 14 days before scheduled charter: No refund of deposit, but you may reschedule your charter within 6 months of original date, subject to availability. If full payment has already been made, then the entire payment will be credited to the future rescheduled date.