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Resource Center


How do I choose a great houseboat rental company?
Now that you have used the Houseboat Rental Center to research and order brochures and information from our member companies, how do you actually go about choosing the “right” rental company for your vacation?

The fact is that most popular houseboat rental spots may have several rental operators operating their own fleets espousing various amenities and benefits.

The bottom line is that all of our featured houseboat rental operators are among the very best in the business and pride themselves on maintaining great houseboats, super staffs and valuable amenities meant to ensure the likelihood of your total enjoyment.

We recommend that if it is possible to actually visit the area you are vacationing prior to your vacation, then by all means do. Our member companies strive to answer all of your questions with honesty, professionalism and courtesy. You will find them to take your vacation enjoyment quite seriously. They want to earn your business now as well as into the future and they want you to send all of your friends there too.

If an actual visit is not possible or practical, try to establish an ongoing line of communication with them once you have received their brochures and information you requested here at The Houseboat Rental Center. This may be by phone, e-mails and faxes…it really doesn’t seem to matter. Just make sure you understand what you are getting, when you are getting it and what your responsibilities are. Knowing the answers to those questions is paramount to having a great time.

Here are a few questions you should know the answers to before you head for your houseboat vacation:

  • What amenities are included in the final costs?
  • What procedures should you follow if there is a mechanical or personal emergency on the water?
  • Are PWC’s “jet skis”, and other rental boats available to augment your fun on the main houseboat?
  • What does the orientation procedure entail when you arrive? How long does that take?
  • What is the very best time to arrive for your adventure?
  • Should you ask for a particular person when you arrive?
  • What happens in the unlikely event the houseboat needs engine or other repairs while you have it? Are there mechanics on call by radio or telephone?
  • Are there restaurants and stores nearby?
  • Are the fuel tanks full and the holding tanks empty before departure?

Ten great reasons to rent a houseboat!

  1. Houseboating makes a unique and memorable vacation unlike any other type you have ever enjoyed.
  2. Houseboating vacations are super values and are extremely affordable for most families when compared to other types of vacations.
  3. You can rent a houseboat virtually anywhere in the world with protected waters.
  4. You can work on your houseboating piloting skills even if you already own a houseboat.
  5. Houseboating can be like a floating tailgate party for special events like concerts, fireworks shows and water parks.
  6. Renting a houseboat enables you to try out potentially many brands and types of houseboats and possibly share the experiences and fun with your family before you actually purchase one.
  7. Because no special skills are required, houseboats can be rented by virtually any responsible adult.
  8. Renting a houseboat can provide the backdrop for one of the most fun and unique family reunions you can imagine. With their ability to hold many people comfortably, they make perfect family reunion platforms. Don’t forget the cameras and videos!
  9. For a couple, houseboating can provide the types of intimacy and adventure that encourages relationships to thrive. Just a hint guys, don’t forget to bring some nice casual clothes too. She make not appreciate you in your bathing suit 24/7 and don’t forget to look for restaurants on the water to share special dining experiences.
  10. The tenth reason is really our favorite one. The fact is that even folks who have basically never even considered the pleasure that owning a houseboat could bring into their lives, end up being “bitten by the houseboating bug”. And that’s a good thing! Often the fun of the rental experience fires up the imagination of perhaps a party that is a bit reluctant and converts them into avid houseboating fans.

How much does renting a houseboat cost?

When it comes to affordable family fun vacations, few can compare with the values and unique experiences that are to be enjoyed when you rent your very own houseboat. Now, of course you may expect us to be a bit partial to houseboating and that is perhaps at least partly correct…we are “bullish on houseboating”, and many of our crew have been doing it since we were just kids.

There are several factors that can and usually do affect the price of your houseboat vacation rental. They are:

  • The luxuriousness of the houseboat and amenities you are considering
  • The length of time you will be renting (a week or longer is usually a better value than something less)
  • What time of year you plan to rent your houseboat (in season or not?)
  • Renting an additional boat or PWC with the main houseboat (our advice is to plan on using another boat too)
  • Will you be driving or flying to your houseboat (trip time management is crucial to any successful vacation)
  • Meals and entertainment budgets (for example: hot dogs and hamburgers or filets on the grill?)
  • The cost and amount of fuel you plan to use (mostly anchored… or extensive cruising and exploring…you have the keys!)

The average cost for renting a 40 - 55 foot houseboat during the peak season (usually considered to be May to September and of course it varies by location), is anywhere from about $1500 to $3200 for a week plus the fuel you use and taxes. For a larger houseboat, say something between 50 - 70 feet, the average can fall between $3300 and $4900 for a week.

One of the best ways to save money on your houseboating vacation is to consider renting in the off season. Another way that is usually more fun (the more the merrier), is to take along paying friends and family. Usually the larger boats can comfortably accommodate two families so the costs can be split by two (and the fun multiplied by two!).

No matter how you decide to do it, when you consider the total package, renting a houseboat for your next vacation simply can’t be beat!

From houseboat renter to houseboat owner

It’s a well known fact in the industry… houseboat renters often become owners!

That’s right! It’s just boils down to basic human nature. Once a family has experienced the joyous times that can only be had on a houseboat, owning a houseboat and having those types of times more often is supremely desirable.

Besides being classified as a second home for tax purposes (check with your CPA), they can truly provide more benefits and versatility than owning a condo at the beach or cabin in the mountains.

The fact is that every trip on your houseboat is unique, satisfying and fun. Virtually every one of these trips will be easily remembered at a later date for many years to come particularly if you stimulate and enhance your memory with pictures you take during each voyage.

We can tell you from experience that virtually no man-made thrill on earth compares with turning the key in the lock of the door of your very own houseboat except perhaps turning your ignition key(s), starting your engine(s), untying the dock lines and heading out for your next adventure at your favorite pristine cove or postcard beautiful beach.

We can also tell you the “conversion” rate to ownership is also high for non houseboat owners who visit houseboat owning friends on their houseboats. Usually just a trip or two visiting houseboat owning friends will have the non owners in the market for a houseboat. Owning your own houseboat can make such great sense that the most popular comment we hear is, “Why didn’t we buy one sooner”?

Tips for a better houseboating vacation from our visitors and staff

Little things can mean a lot when it comes to comfort, fun and relaxation of your next houseboat vacation. Here are some suggestions from our visitors and staff:

  • Stake out the cove, beach or area where you plan to spend the night early in the day. Don’t wait until it is getting dark or worse yet, very busy. A little planning here can go a long way to ensuring a great evening of fun and relaxation. Thanks Don M., Georgia
  • Making friends on the water or bringing them with you on their own boat is a super experience. Tying two or more houseboats together can make a giant, stable party platform. Always remember, easy does it when maneuvering around other vessels and don’t let any children or adults get in the way. Have them situated in strategic positions to aid the docking maneuvers. Don’t forget the value of a good boat hook and of course, bumpers. Thanks Phil B., Georgia
  • Although cleaning the boat is not most folk’s idea of fun, it does seem to go much better if everyone is assigned a task or two and commits to doing them before the very end of the day when they are tired. Teamwork is the key.
  • Bring along some of your favorite music. There is nothing quite like dancing under the stars on a warm summer’s night on your top deck. Thanks Bill & Cindy, Tennessee
  • Houseboats and hot tubs are just meant to be together. Swinging on the anchor line while bubbling in your spa on the top deck under the stars is a truly unique and fun experience. If you can opt for a rental with a spa and are undecided…just go for it. You will have the time of your life! Thanks Cheryl & Andy M., California
  • Don’t forget to go ashore at parks, beaches and other areas of interest. Many houseboaters forget just how much fun shore excursions can be in a new and natural environment. Don’t forget to take your camera.
  • Speaking of cameras…be sure to take your camera, video camera and plenty of film and tape. We also recommend buying disposable cameras just for your trip especially the underwater kind. It is amazing what a great family photo album you can make with some great pictures and a little imagination. Videos are also a super way to relive your vacation and help you plan the next one.
  • If you can control yourself, don’t be afraid to take a cellular phone. This way you can choose to stay in touch if you like and have another communication device (besides the houseboat radio), in the event of emergency. Thanks Bob S., Kentucky
  • Along those same lines, many houseboaters also take their laptops with them on vacation. Remember to keep them dry and out of harsh, direct sunlight as they can become overheated and damaged without much warning and of course, moisture is a killer. It’s interesting to note that many people think of thousands of great ideas while relaxing on their houseboat that they swear they would not have thought of without the fun of the houseboating environment.
  • If you or your guests choose to consume alcohol while houseboating, please keep in mind that when exposed to the water, sun and natural movement of the houseboat, people can experience much stronger effects from the alcohol they drink. Remember to be responsible, exercise caution and always maintain at least one adult who is the “designated driver” who can pilot the houseboat in case of emergency. Thanks George P., Tennessee
  • Sunsets can be a special time on the water. Try to make enough time to enjoy them without the hustle and bustle of dinner preparation and other end of the daylight routines. The women members of your party especially appreciate that special time of the day and sharing it with the ones they love. Thanks Cindy K., Georgia
  • Fireworks on the water can be very beautiful. If it is legal to own and use them in the area you are in and you feel comfortable using them, they can add a whole new dimension of excitement to your vacation. We do not recommend lighting them onboard any vessel, only in an approved and legal area on land. Remember…safety first!

Damage deposits…what you need to know

When it comes to damage deposits and rental houseboats try to think of the deposit programs as being similar to the deposits you pay car rental companies when you rent a car. Here are some key points you should be aware of:

  • If you break it, pay for it. Honesty is the best policy here. No one wants to be badgered by that tiny little voice nagging them that they may have done something wrong. If you break something it is not the end of the world. Let the operator know the circumstances of the situation. Not all things that break are the renter’s fault so don’t sway to the negative and assume that they are.
  • Perform a thorough inspection when you first board your houseboat and note anything that is broken or not considered normal wear and tear with your rental company. They will usually do a walk through with you and it is important that you pay attention. A dented blind here, a broken handle there, damage in the carpet, etc., etc., should all be noted before you initially take possession of your houseboat.
  • Remember the importance of an accurate assessment before you leave and remember that when you check the boat back in at the end of your trip, you may have a different person checking you in. That is one reason to make sure anything you notice is put in writing before you leave.
  • If there is any question about the quality of the information noted on the walk through, we advise videotaping any area that may be suspect later. If you don’t have a video, take a few pictures. They can be cheap insurance if a question comes up later.
  • Most damage deposits start off life as part of the reservation process and will be returned to you in their entirety if you bring back the houseboat undamaged.
  • The majority of houseboat rental operators are more than fair when it comes to damage deposits. After all, they are glad you are there. Serving you and people like you are the reason their businesses exist and finally, they want you to share the great news about your vacation with everyone you know (and don’t know), to encourage new business.
  • Houseboat rental operators want your business again. They would much rather treat you fairly and look forward to an ongoing rental relationship with you than have you as a one time customer. It just makes great business sense.
  • On a closing note, it is not a bad idea to have an initial meeting with all the folks onboard before you embark on your trip just letting them know the relationship of renting someone else’s property and the natural respect that comes with enjoying things that belong to someone else. With a little forethought and consideration, damage deposits will not be a problem on your houseboat rental vacation. So, have a super time!

Dining onboard your houseboat…count on a big appetite!

Food seems to take on a life of its own when it is enjoyed on your houseboat. Appetites become unusually large, snacking and consuming beverages are paramount and when it comes right down to it, houseboating can be a real drag if you are hungry or thirsty.

So, with that in mind, or staff and visitors have come up with some super ideas virtually guaranteeing that when push comes to shove, you won’t be the one who has to “walk the plank”:

  • All types of food are particularly delicious on your houseboat.
  • Appetites are usually much larger than normal. We eat and eat and eat when we are on our houseboat and don’t seem to gain a pound! Linda S., Texas
  • Beverages are a mainstay…almost everyone will naturally have some type of beverage with them 90% of the time onboard. Keep plenty of drinks onboard. Natural drinks like iced tea, bottled water, Gatorade and fruit juices are more satisfying that heavy sugar carbonated sodas.
  • For children, smaller containers are generally best so they can finish the whole drink without leaving extra that turns warm.
  • If possible, try to stay away from glass as much as possible. Smaller kids seem to love “juice box” type drinks. Bigger kids and adults will appreciate their beverages in quick cooling, aluminum cans.
  • If alcoholic beverages are allowed and are to be consumed, they must be consumed in moderation. The inebriating effects of alcohol are intensified by being onboard a moving vessel in the fresh air. When in doubt, back off on the alcohol consumption onboard your houseboat. Remember, better safe than sorry.
  • Bottled water goes quickly when onboard so bring plenty of it with you.
  • Sometimes it is practical to do some basic food preparation before you embark on your houseboat vacation.
  • Bite sized foods are fun. Keep veggies, dip and chips ready to go at all times.
  • Most houseboats include a grill so plan to bring foods that are great cooked that way. The normal hot dogs and hamburgers are fantastic but don’t forget tender steaks, kabobs and succulent seafood, too.
  • I can still remember the incredible taste of filet mignon that my mom used to prepare for our houseboat weekends. She would take 6 ounce, bacon wrapped filets from a place in Atlanta called Casselberrys, put them in stainless steel bowl and then slather them with French dressing and some other herbs and spices. Then she would cover the bowl with aluminum foil and keep them chilled in the cooler. Cooked on the charcoal grill, they were mouth watering and delicious. Filets are a nice treat! Thanks Mark M., Florida
  • Try to spread the cooking chores around equally. They are much more fun that way and it promotes a strong sense of working together while taking some of the load off of the traditional meal maker in the family. She will definitely appreciate it!
  • Along those same lines, try to make entire meals or even entire days that give the Mom the entire day off of what she probably considers to be primarily her function. You’ll be amazed at just how much fun it will be for everyone involved and the smiles and hugs you get from her will be even more priceless.

Renting PWC’s “jet skis”, and other boats with your houseboat…fun, fun, fun!

PWC’s, fishing boats, deck boats, runabouts and other types of boats can be a natural extension of your houseboat vacation. We recommend checking with your houseboat rental operator as to the availability and costs associated with adding these types of vessels to your main houseboat rental package. Discounts are usually offered by our member companies if you ask and mention The Houseboat Rental Center. Having these boats around really opens up a whole new arena of fun for everyone.

Exploring, fishing, skiing and more are all enjoyable from these smaller, more maneuverable craft.

Remember, safety first. Make sure that when you rent them you are comfortable with the operation of your particular vessel. Don’t let anyone operate the boat without feeling the same comfort level as you. If there is any doubt in your mind, or if multiple drivers are not permitted where you decide to rent, the correct answer should always be “no”. When in doubt, be sure to check with your rental operator regarding the rules of operation for your particular area.

Safety first…safety is no accident!

Boating safety is no mistake. Common sense, an awareness of the rules governing your area and the cooperation of all of the members of your crew can go a long way towards ensuring the safety of everyone aboard your houseboat.

Here are some ideas from our visitors and staff members to help make sure that everyone has a safe and fun time:

  • Never let kids out of your sight while they are swimming…even for a few seconds no matter how accomplished they are at swimming. Thanks Mike & Chris T., Kentucky
  • Make sure that kids always practice the “buddy system”. That means being responsible for their playmate and not letting them out of their site.
  • Enforce the “no running” rule onboard the houseboat. Chase type games and other shenanigans can lead to problems for everyone. A “time-out” or other suitable punishment can be a great reinforcement of the rules.
  • Make sure to put a good sunscreen on everyone and reapply it frequently. A bad sunburn can be a real problem while onboard and can make the unsuspecting victim miserable especially if it happens during the first few days of the vacation.
  • Make sure you have a well stocked first aid kit and that everyone knows where it is.
  • Some insects can inflict a particularly nasty sting or bite and you should be prepared with the proper treatments. Horse flies can be very nasty at certain times of the year in certain places.
  • Encourage the kids to go ashore and explore. Inexpensive and portable walkie talkies can be purchased at your local electronics or discount store for less than $25.00 each. They are a great way to keep everyone connected on the same frequency so to speak.
  • With kids and shore excursions, make sure that they know not to touch any plant or animal that is unfamiliar to them. Kids have a wonderful, natural fascination with nature which can sometimes take them into harms way.
  • Make sure there are fire extinguishers onboard, they are properly certified and that everyone knows where they are and how to operate them in case they are needed. Do not leave the dock or accept your rental houseboat without proper fire extinguishers onboard.
  • Make sure you know how many life preservers or PFD’s are onboard, where they are located and that everyone else knows where they are too. Sometimes it is a good suggestion to get children used to wearing them right from the start and make their usage mandatory (in fact, a recent change in law makes PFD usage mandatory for children 10 or under in most areas). Later, as your comfort level increases and they have demonstrated good, safe behavior, you can use your discretion (if local laws allow) as to their usage. Don’t have them buried where they are too hard to get to in case of an emergency either.
  • Consuming excessive amounts of alcoholic beverages can be deadly anywhere but particularly while on the water. Try to avoid or at least moderate the alcohol consumption by your guests, yourself and your family. Houseboating is so relaxing that many people learn that they don’t even have to drink to become really relaxed and have a great time. Thanks Tom G., Mississippi
  • No matter what the circumstances, always make sure there is a capable adult, familiar with the operation of the houseboat, who refrains from drinking any alcoholic beverages at all. They will serve as the designated driver should the need arise.
  • The design of some boats can tend to trap generator fumes near the swim platform while running for long periods, under the right conditions. These fumes can contain deadly carbon monoxide. This is an odorless and colorless gas that displaces the normal oxygen in an area and leads to sleepiness and eventual suffocation during prolonged exposure. Try not to use the generator while anchored and with swimmers in the water. In addition, warn swimmers about hanging around (and particularly, under) the swim platform. This can be a tough rule to enforce as the swim platform by its very nature is a point of congregation and playing. Remember, the best bet is to minimize generator use while swimmers are in the water.
  • When you have the engine(s) running, make sure that everyone is present and accounted for. You don’t want to leave anyone behind in the confusion or have someone someplace they shouldn’t be.
  • The captain of the boat should always know the rules of navigation on the water and have charts for everywhere you plan to explore.
  • Try do do all of your navigation during daylight at a relaxed pace. Avoid nighttime piloting or driving in a storm if at all possible. Hurrying to get somewhere often defeats one of the main purposes of the vacation anyway…relaxation. Thanks Wendy K., Kentucky
  • Keep an eye on the weather. Houseboats can be very safe in storms, but it is just common sense that if a storm is approaching you should seek a sheltered mooring for your vessel.
  • Always run the bilge blowers and preferably make an actual visual inspection of the engine compartment before you start any inboard or inboard/outboard powered boat. Use your senses to check for any unusual liquids in the bilge area or gasoline/diesel fuel smells.
  • Check your mooring before retiring to bed for the night. Make sure you display the proper lighting if you are at anchorage so that you are visible to other vessels.
  • Before you go to bed, make sure that you have a secure anchor hold and are not dragging the bottom at all. Your hand on the line will usually enable you to feel any movement down under the water of your ground tackle. If you are uncertain, don’t be afraid to crank up the engine and engage some reverse thrust to check the anchor’s hold. If the hold is unstable, she will probably break free and then you can reset her. If she holds, you can rest a little easier that the anchor seems to have “a good purchase” in this direction. Remember that when you are asleep, the wind can shift and actually blow from 180 degrees in another direction breaking your anchor free. The Boy Scout motto seems to work well here: “be prepared”.

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