FORT COLLINS BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Double‑deck tritoon with a waterslide—luxe days on Horsetooth Reservoir
A private pontoon experience on Horsetooth Reservoir with guided or self‑captained options; this guide explains the boat’s features, what to bring, and how to plan a 6‑ or 8‑hour day on the water.
Double‑deck tritoon with a waterslide—luxe days on Horsetooth Reservoir.
Adventure brief
Double‑deck tritoon with a waterslide—luxe days on Horsetooth Reservoir
On Horsetooth Reservoir, the Tritoon Upper Deck Avalon Catalina Entertainer turns a routine lake day into a portable summer house: a 27' double‑deck pontoon with a powerful 250HP outboard, an upper sun deck, and a built‑in waterslide. Operators offer guided Scenic Lake Tours with a captain or self‑captained On‑The‑Water rentals, making the boat adaptable for family outings, scenic cruises through coves, or relaxed all‑day lounging on the reservoir.
Just west of Fort Collins, Horsetooth Reservoir opens into clear, wind-scoured water framed by the jagged Horsetooth Rock hogback and the lower foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Here, the Tritoon Upper Deck w/ Water Slide • Avalon Catalina Entertainer (WHT) turns a standard lake day into a mobile party: a 27-foot, double-deck pontoon with a 250HP Mercury Verado, built-in waterslide, upper sun deck, dining table, and room for up to 17 people.
This boat is as much about comfort as it is about motion. Premium lounge seating on the upper deck and a floatable table create social zones; the heavy motor pushes through wind and wakes so towables, tube runs, and fast pulls feel secure. Families love the integrated waterslide and four-step stainless ladder for repeated jumps; groups appreciate the optional BBQ grill and premium sound package for a lakeside soundtrack. Whether you book an on-the-water captain-led scenic tour or take a self-operated “take-and-go,” the layout makes it easy to switch from sunbathing to splashing to relaxed dining.
Horsetooth Reservoir is defined by its sandstone hogbacks, cedar and ponderosa-studded slopes, and clear blue water that stretches into coves and longshore beaches. From the boat you get different perspectives: sweeping views toward Horsetooth Rock, wind-carved cliffs, and small islands where ospreys fish and mule deer sometimes drink at sunset. The setting is equally attractive for wildlife watchers and for photographers aiming to frame the rocky ridgeline against late-afternoon light.
Practical details matter: pick-up and boarding information references Boyd Lake Marina for on-the-water rentals and South Bay boat ramp docks for departures; check your booking confirmation for specifics. Operators must be 21+ to rent and 16+ to operate, with Colorado boating-safety requirements for minors—bring IDs and any necessary certificates. Bring sunscreen, extra water, and a floating mat for long anchor stops.
This Tritoon is a standout on Horsetooth because it blends raw performance with family-friendly features—power for open-water runs, a slide for repeated thrills, lounge space for long afternoons, and storage thoughtful enough for multi-hour trips. It’s a practical, joyful way to experience the reservoir: a social boat for birthdays and reunions, a platform for learning to wakeboard, or simply a floating basecamp for soaking up Colorado’s foothill light.
Plan a rough itinerary: morning cruise along the west shoreline to find calm coves for swimming, midday grilling at anchor with the BBQ package, and afternoon wakeboard runs before returning at sunset. Optional extras include wakeboards, towable tubes, and floating lake mats to expand the day's activities. Bookings offer 4-, 6-, and 8-hour on-the-water options plus multi-day take-and-go rentals. Reserve early on summer weekends; bring a credit card for the damage deposit and a government ID to meet rental requirements. Plus water shoes.
Route Schematic
Route & Typical Stops
Stops are straightforward and centered on cruising scenic coves and stopping for water time—operators tailor the route to your group and the day.
Scenic Cove Cruise
A guided or self‑driven cruise around Horsetooth’s coves, taking in shoreline views from the double‑deck tritoon.
Anchor for Lunch
Pause to eat and swim; groups can add an optional built‑in BBQ Grill Package and dine at the boat’s table.
Swim & Slide
Enjoy water time around the boat with the built‑in waterslide and floatable table, then relax on the upper deck between swims.
Confirm passenger limits and booking options with the operator prior to departure; capacity and whether a captain is included vary by booking choice.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The rhythm of the outing is slow and social: a launch followed by a gentle cruise through Horsetooth’s coves, interspersed with stops for swimming, slides, and a picnic on the water. With captained tours you’ll sit back as the operator navigates; in self‑captained mode the boat will be staged on the water and ready for your group to take off.
THE BOAT
A double‑deck tritoon built for groups
This Island Breeze 252 pontoon combines premium furniture, a 250HP Mercury outboard, and seating for large parties—features designed to keep up to a full complement of passengers comfortable for all‑day cruising.
THE FUN
Built‑in waterslide and upper deck lounging
An integrated waterslide and an upper sun deck create a playful split between high‑energy splash sessions and sunny social spaces—ideal for families and mixed‑age groups seeking both thrills and repose.
THE DAY
Flexible trips: captained scenic tours or self‑drive rentals
Choose a captained Scenic Lake Tour—reserved exclusively for your group—or take the On‑The‑Water self‑captained option; either way the boat is set up for all‑day socializing, dining, and swimming.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits—and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring sun protection (sunscreen, hat), plenty of drinking water, and towels.
Pack layered sunwear and swim gear and plan for an all‑day outing—towels and hydration are recommended.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long are rentals?
Rentals are offered in 6‑hour and 8‑hour options.
Where do I meet for the boat?
On‑The‑Water rentals depart from the Boyd Lake Marina; take‑and‑go rentals can be picked up at the rental facility.
How many people does the boat hold?
The boat lists a passenger capacity of up to 17; specific tour options note reserved group sizes for captained trips.
Is there a waterslide and other amenities?
Yes—the boat includes a built‑in waterslide, an upper deck, dining table with seating, premium furniture, and an optional built‑in BBQ grill.
Can I hire a captain or drive myself?
Yes—choose a Scenic Lake Tour with a captain reserved for your group, or select the On‑The‑Water self‑captained rental when available.
What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, plenty of drinking water, and towels.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-07T13:00:33.848Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.