• 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!
• Share your tips with our thousands of visitors! Please e-mail them to: [email protected]

Reminder: Be sure to share your vacation experience with us by taking our vacation survey. We would love to learn about your houseboat vacation firsthand!

The Houseboat Rental Center Resource Center