Solitaire: Cruise Austin’s Lady Bird Lake aboard a 1973 James Bond–featured Glastron

AUSTIN BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Solitaire: Cruise Austin’s Lady Bird Lake aboard a 1973 James Bond–featured Glastron

A 90-minute, intimate cruise on a restored 1973 Glastron GT-150 that pairs cinematic history with a stylish, low-speed run on Lady Bird Lake.

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Solitaire: Cruise Austin’s Lady Bird Lake aboard a 1973 James Bond–featured Glastron.

Duration
90 minutes
Location
Austin
Operator
Retro Boats ATX
Category
Boat Tour

Adventure brief

Solitaire: Cruise Austin’s Lady Bird Lake aboard a 1973 James Bond–featured Glastron

Step aboard Solitaire, a restored 1973 Glastron GT-150—the same model featured in the 1973 James Bond film Live and Let Die—and spend an intimate 90 minutes gliding across Lady Bird Lake. The retro-style boat and small-group format make this a cinematic, skyline-minded outing ideal for those who want a relaxed cruise at sunset or a short exploration of Austin’s central waterway.

Experience cinematic history in a unique and stylish way with the Solitaire Retro Boat Daily Cruise in Austin, Texas. Step aboard the iconic 1973 Glastron GT-150, famously recognized as Solitaire from the James Bond film "Live and Let Die." This private boat cruise offered by Retro Boats ATX lets you and your friends enjoy an unforgettable day on the water, combining adventure, nostalgia, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re a Bond enthusiast or simply looking for something distinctive, this cruise offers a chance to relive a legendary moment in film history amidst Austin’s picturesque water routes. Glide over the calm waters with comfortable seating, retro styling, and friendly guides who make the experience effortlessly special. Beyond the cinematic allure, you’ll discover Austin’s waterfront in a completely new light, ideal for social gatherings, celebrations, or a memorable outing. With personalized attention and a boat that stands out from the crowd, the Solitaire cruise promises more than just a ride — it’s an immersive, stylish adventure with a historic twist.

Route Schematic

Route schematic and stops

The 90-minute cruise follows a short scenic circuit on Lady Bird Lake with opportunities to take in city views and the lakeside atmosphere.

  1. Launch on Lady Bird Lake

    Board Solitaire and depart onto Lady Bird Lake for the planned circuit.

  2. Skyline viewing

    Cruise portions of the lake that provide views of Austin’s skyline for photography and sightseeing.

  3. Sunset or leisure cruise

    The outing is well suited to catching sunset light over the water or simply enjoying a relaxed, retro boat ride.

Operators enforce a strict 750 lb weight limit, a four-guest maximum, no pets, and prohibit swimming and fishing; drivers must be 21 or older. Routes and stops may be adjusted by the operator for safety or local conditions.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE VESSEL

A restored 1973 Glastron GT-150 with Bond pedigree

Solitaire is a period Glastron GT-150—identical to the boat seen in Live and Let Die—restored for intimate outings that foreground cinematic history and classic lines.

THE RIDE

Easy, low-speed handling

The cruise runs at a 5 mph limit, making the boat easy to learn and steady to ride—an accessible way to experience Lake views without high-speed drama.

AMENITIES

Music and shade for a relaxed outing

The boat is equipped with Bluetooth speakers so you can bring your own soundtrack, and umbrellas are on hand for sun or light rain.

What the day feels like

What the cruise feels like

The outing unfolds as a short, stylized escape: an intimate group boards a retro, open-sided speedboat and spends roughly an hour and a half easing across Lady Bird Lake, taking in Austin’s skyline and the changing light as the boat prowls at a modest pace suited to conversation and photos.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this trip suits—and who should look elsewhere.

1
Bond and film enthusiastsIdeal for those drawn to cinematic history—the boat is the same model featured in Live and Let Die, offering a tangible connection to the film.
2
Small groups and couplesDesigned for intimate outings: the experience accommodates up to four guests, lending itself to small groups or pairs seeking a stylish, short cruise.
3
Driver-rentersAnyone planning to drive the boat should note the age requirement—drivers must be 21 or older—and be prepared to operate a low-speed vintage craft.
4
Water-activity seekersNot a fit for people looking to swim or fish from the boat—both activities are prohibited—and pets are not allowed; the outing is focused on cruising and sightseeing.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

You can connect your device to the boat’s Bluetooth speakers for music; umbrellas are available for sun or light rain—pack weather-appropriate clothing and anything you want to keep dry.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Solitaire Retro Boat cruise?

The cruise lasts 90 minutes.

Where do I meet the boat?

The meeting location is 74 Trinity St, Austin, Texas 78701.

How many people can ride at once?

The boat accommodates a maximum of four guests.

Are there weight or pet restrictions?

There is a 750 lb total weight limit; pets are not allowed.

Can I swim or fish from the boat?

No—swimming and fishing are not permitted while renting the boat.

Is there an age requirement to drive?

Drivers must be 21 or older.

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: 2026-08-07T13:15:38.921Z

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.

Solitaire: Cruise Austin’s Lady Bird Lake aboard a 1973 James Bond–featured Glastron