Choosing the perfect houseboat rental is not always easy. From looking at the right amenities to finding the right price range, there are many factors that go into the ideal choice. For the best houseboating vacation, plan the type of houseboat that you want in advance. Some houseboats are rented for weeks or months in advance, so make sure to schedule your rental as soon as possible.
Finding the Right Budget
One of the main factors in selecting the right houseboat is the cost. Everyone has a budget that is right for them, and it is important to find a houseboat that offers the right amenities for the best price. While there are luxurious houseboats that are available for thousands of dollars a night, budget-friendly houseboats are also available.
A nice houseboat does not have to be expensive. To stretch their budget, families can choose to vacation during cheaper times of the year or at destinations that are inexpensive. In addition, families can save money by finding a destination that is closer. If you do not have to fly to the destination, you will have more money left over for renting the houseboat.
While budget-friendly houseboats are available, there are also luxurious houseboats that are basically floating palaces. These houseboats tend to offer more expensive amenities and sleep more guests. These houseboats are generally more expensive, but it is also possible to find them available for cheaper through promotions and seasonal specials.
Consider the Size of the Houseboat
When renting a houseboat, make sure to look at the maximum capacity. While you can rent a 15-person houseboat with just two travelers, you cannot do the opposite. The marina is not allowed to exceed the legal number of guests on the boat, so they will not let you bring more people on board than the recommended number. In addition to being a liability issue, this rule is also designed to protect your safety. Each houseboat is only made to fit a certain number of people, and including more passengers will reduce the safety of your boat.
Luckily, houseboats are available for almost any group size. Basic houseboats may sleep just four to six guests. Meanwhile, larger houseboats are more like luxury yachts than basic houseboat rentals. On these boats, it is common to have capacities designed for 15 people or more. If you or other people in your party need extra room, you can always rent a houseboat that sleeps more guests than you plan on bringing along.
Selecting the Perfect Amenities
If you are traveling with children, you may want a swimming platform or waterslide on your houseboat. Meanwhile, luxury lovers may want houseboats with gourmet kitchens, hot tubs, wet bars or outdoor grills. Most houseboats include basic amenities like sleeping quarters, kitchens and bathrooms.
After the most basic features, houseboat amenities can include just about anything that you can imagine. Luxury houseboats offer satellite tv reception, LCD televisions, surround sound systems and other options. Most houseboats will be stocked with kitchen utensils, bed linens and basic features that you would find in a standard hotel room.
The Destination Matters
To enjoy your experience, you should go to the right destination. Avid fishermen may enjoy destinations like Lake Cumberland. Meanwhile, places like Lake Ouachita in Arkansas offer a secluded location for experiencing the great outdoors. Beyond lakeside amenities, you may want to look for areas that offer tourist attractions, museums or shopping options. In addition, your group may also need to consider how far away the destination is. A significant amount of travel time can eat into your vacation, so weekend trips may be best done at a nearby lake instead of a destination on the other side of the country.
In the Southwest, check out top destinations like Lake Powell, Lake Mead or Lake Mohave. As our comprehensive houseboat guide points out, California is one of the top destinations for houseboating in the nation with spots like Shasta Lake, Lake Berryessa and Lake Don Pedro garnering many thousands of visitors every year. Meanwhile, the Pacific Northwest, the Florida Keys and the Northeast are favorites for water aficionados.
Timing Is Everything
As a rule, you want to rent your houseboat as soon as possible. Often, houseboat rentals are cheaper if they are scheduled for a few months in advance. At the very least, scheduling early will ensure that you can rent the right boat at the perfect destination. Popular spots tend to rent quickly, so you need to plan your vacation as early as possible.
Other than ensuring that your rental is available, you also need to consider the timing of your trip. While some lakes offer beautiful winter weather and fall foliage, other destinations are best visited during the summertime. Before you schedule your trip, make sure to look up the weather at the destination so that you have the best experience possible.
Renting a houseboat is like sleeping in a luxury hotel room on the open water. It offers a way to enjoy the peaceful serenity of America's lakes without the stress of traffic or hotel rentals. From barbecue grills to waterslides, your group can find the perfect amenities to suit your needs. Once you have found the right boat, all you have to do is reserve a spot and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime. For more information about preparing for your vacation, check out our article Planning a Houseboat Vacation: The Definitive Guide.
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