Raystown Lake Houseboat Rentals

Experience the natural beauty of Raystown Lake. This beautiful lake is nestled within the rolling mountains of Pennsylvania. Placed between Altoona and Harrisburg, the lake contains more than 30 miles of navigable water. Fed by the Juniata River, it boasts of 118 miles of shoreline. From Raystown Lake houseboat rental, visitors can explore the 21,000 acres of largely undeveloped lands that surround the lake.

Discover the Wildlife of Raystown Lake with a Houseboat Rental

Raystown Lake boat rentals offer the perfect way to see the wildlife that surround the lake. Birds of prey, deer, raccoons, turtles, ducks, wild turkeys, beavers and water snakes live around the lake's crystalline waters. Fishermen can enjoy the many species of fish like Atlantic salmon, stripers, large mouth bass, lake trout and perch that live within the lake. For the true water lover, the lake is the perfect place to swim, dive and explore. Many islands and coves fill the lake, which make it the perfect destination for adventure seekers.

Lounge on Your Houseboat or Explore

While many people spend their entire vacation lounging on their houseboat, there are other activities in the areas that surround the lake. During the summer, the area holds receptions at the visitors center. Hiking trails, natural outdoor spaces and caves are simple to find. Visitors can also check out the Rockhill Trolley Museum, the William E. Swigart Automobile Museum and the Islett Heritage Museum for a more historic experience. To learn about the industrial heritage of the area, visit the Broad Top Area Coal Minors Historical Society and Museum.

To enjoy a true Raystown Lake experience, check out the Whisper Rocks and Lincoln Caverns. These natural formations were discovered 80 years ago and are still the site of interpretive tours. The two crystal caves offer Halloween events and regular educational classes for visitors in the area.

Whether you are looking for a rich history or the perfect hike, Raystown Lake is the perfect destination spot. From your houseboat, you can tour the hidden recesses of the lake that are unreachable by cars. At night, you can relax under the starry sky as the gentle waters of the lake lap against the hull of your boat.

Seven Points Marina

seven-points-marina

40.377815

-78.071795

Lake Raystown Resort

lake-raystown-resort

40.301523

-78.177037

Have an Unbeatable Vacation at Raystown Lake with Our Houseboat Rentals

Exceptional beauty and natural wildlife combine for an unbeatable vacation. From a Raystown Lake houseboat rental, the stress and worries of modern life seem to recede into the distance. With options available for 6 to 10 guests, these houseboat rentals offered vacation experiences that range from the epitome of luxury to peaceful solitude.

The smaller houseboats on Raystown Lake still span 42 feet in length. Within these houseboats, visitors can expect to find spacious dining areas, full-size showers and fully-equipped galleys. Outfitted with four double beds, many of these houseboats contain sun decks, gas grills and catwalks.

On the more luxurious boats, visitors can enjoy central air conditioning, extra staterooms and spacious decks. Each deck is designed with patio chairs, a gas grill and tables for the best barbecuing possible. Meanwhile, a covered back deck is the perfect place to relax and watch family members slip down the water slide.

Blue Herron Houseboat

Starting at $2595

At 60-feet the Blue Heron houseboat is a favorite for up to 10 people who prefer to have lots of space. Amenities on our 60' beauty include 2 full bathrooms, vanity sink in the double down cuddy,...

Redneck Rental Houseboat

Starting at $895

The Redneck Rental houseboat is 42-feet and was newly renovated for 2015 with a touch of humor. A 6 sleeper with 2 sets of full size bunks (4 beds bunked for those who don't want to share),...

Sea Weed Houseboat

Starting at $1395

The Sea Weed is a 54-foot cabin style houseboat accommodating 8 people featuring a top deck swim slide. Living room, dining area with fully equipped galley, bathroom with full size shower, 2...

Striper Houseboat

Starting at $1095

The Striper is a 46-foot Cabin Style houseboat with bunks and a lower cuddy sleeping area accommodating up to 6 People. Enjoy scenic Raystown Lake aboard our 46 ft. air-conditioned 6...

Sun Runner Houseboat

Starting at $1195

At 48-feet, the Sun Runner is a Cabin Style houseboat with bunks accommodating 8 people. This air-conditioned 8 sleeper is very affordable and a terrific boat and continues to be of our most popular...

Cove Dweller Houseboat

Starting at $1495

At 58-feet the Cove Dweller has room enough for 8 People and features room enough for privacy and a swim slide off the top deck. You will enjoy the extra large living and dining areas, large fully...

Unforgettable Houseboat

Starting at $1395

At 58-feet the Unforgettable Houseboat accommodates 8 People and is equipped a swim slide. Featuring lots of space! Sleeps up to 8 with 2 private sleeping areas (1 Queen and 1 Full...

Raystowner Houseboat

Starting at $1695

The 58-foot Raystowner Houseboat is spacious enough for 8 People, has a Hot Tub and a swim slide! Newly rennovated for 2014! Sleeps up to 8 with 2 private sleeping areas and a double down...

The Islander Houseboat

Starting at $1795 for 4 nights

HOT TUB, SLIDE and ROVER! Spend your vacation in unmatched luxury one of our 58' beauties. Sleeps up to 8 with 2 private sleeping areas(1Q;1F) and a double down cuddy with vanity sink. You...

Juniata Houseboat

Starting at $1695

The Juniata Houseboat is 58-feet long, has room enough for 8 People and features a hot tub and swim slide. The name honors the Raystown areas outstanding Juniata College and River; this beauty...

Merry Margaret Houseboat

Starting at $1695

At 58-feet, the Merry Margaret Houseboat accommodates 8 People The Merry Margared is named in honor of the Seven Points Marina founders wife, Peg. This is a favorite for many. Master stateroom...

Nauti Buoy Houseboat

Starting at $1395

At 48-feet, the Nauti Buoy houseboat is perfect for up to 4 People It is the MOST POPULAR houseboat at Raystown Lake for small groups. One of our most popular rentals! The Nauti Buoy is a...

Learning How to Drive the Boat - Is there a video people watch, live training, combo of the two methods?
All destinations have an orientation at the time you pick up the houseboat. That orientation includes a walkthrough of the boat and explanation of how everything works. Also as part of the orientation, houseboat renters are instructed on how to operate (drive) the houseboat. There is also an instructional DVD that renters can watch after the orientation on the TV in the houseboat. All houseboats have manuals on board with information that was covered in the orientation and often more in depth. Renters are encouraged to ask questions during the orientation.
Are there driver requirements for steering the houseboat? Min age, valid license, etc?
Raystown Lake requires a special recreational boating permit. Renters qualify and receive the permit after they go through the standard orientation, so no special efforts are required.
What Are the Houseboat Rental Pickup and Drop Off Times?
General pick up and drop off times are as follows:
- Pickup between 3 and 5 pm on first day
- Drop off between 8 and 10 am on final day
What Do We Do When Arriving at the Marina?
Renters should find the orientation office and get instructions from the marina staff on where to go to unload their belongings to start loading the houseboat. Wait for advice from the staff before unloading as often times there are staff available to assist you. Renters should be patient when they arrive, starting a houseboat vacation can be a task that takes time and the staff wants to ensure everything is in order so that renters have everything they need.
Is Pre-Boarding (option to stay on the boat overnight the day before) Allowed?
Unfortunately, there is not a pre-boarding at Raystown Lake at this time.
How far in advance should trip be reserved? Is it too late to book this season
We recommend booking 3 to 6 months in advance.
Cancelation and refund policy
Cancellation and refund policy varies by destination. Please ask one of our experts for the cancellation and refund policy specific to the destination you plan to visit.
What to Pack? - Things outside clothes swim suit, etc
Guests should plan on bringing attire appropriate to the activities they will enjoy during the houseboating vacations. For most, that means a couple of swimsuits, some t-shirts or loose-fitting tops and some flip flops. A large brimmed hat and plenty of sun block are good ideas for protection from the sun.

If a guest is going to one of our destinations in the spring or the fall, a light jacket and a few pairs of pants are a good idea for the evenings.

Other ideas include some of your favorite DVD’s for night time watching, board games and/or playing cards and of course your favorite music.

See Our "Planning a Houseboat Vacation Guide" Here.
What Equipment is on Board?Coolers, bedding, towels, fresh water, etc?
Equipment and amenities on board vary by destination and by houseboat. We list the amenities for each houseboat on our website.

Standard equipment on houseboats at all our destinations include:
- Fully equipped kitchens with everything needed to prepare and serve meals
- Barbecue Grills
- Some cleaning supplies
- A supply of toilet paper and paper towels
- A freshwater tank
Where and when to anchor boat? Is there a best time of day? Location?
Houseboats are not equipped with anchors as anchoring requires additional expertise and isn’t as safe as mooring a houseboat. Mooring is the process of securing the houseboat to the shore where there are no underwater obstructions. Renters will be provided with all the equipment and instructions on how to moor the houseboat. We recommend beaches or coves where there will be some shelter from the wind, especially at night while you’re sleeping. Renters should plan to moor the houseboat to the shore at least 2 hours prior to sunset.
How long of a trip is recommended for first-timers? What about experienced houseboaters?
We recommend a 4 day/3 night or a 3-night trip as a minimum trip length to our first time houseboaters so that they have the full experience but aren’t burden by extra days if (in the very unlikely event) they don’t like the houseboating experience.

Experienced houseboaters typically will rent for a full week or more!
How many people will a boat hold? Do infants count as people?
Houseboats accommodate different size groups depending on the size and amenities on the houseboat. All persons count towards the total regardless of age. Houseboat maximum group sizes are set as a safety standard by the US Coast Guard and cannot be exceeded.
Any meal planning tips
We absolutely recommend meal planning. Groups should start out by assigning different individuals in the group responsible for specific meals or snacks during the trip. Once that assignment has been made, make a menu for those meals and shop accordingly. Make a detailed shopping list and make sure you get everything you need. It is very inconvenient to be miles out on the lake and does not have the ingredients you need to make a specific meal. Don’t forget condiments, cooking oil and spices!!

All of our destinations have shopping nearby. We recommend bringing dry goods (cereal, pancake mix, spices, etc.) from home if you’re driving and shopping locally near your destination for refrigerated items like milk, meats, eggs, etc.

Many of our destinations have shop and stock services. Ask us about these convenient services while scheduling your houseboat vacation with one of our experts.
Can You Water Ski Behind a Houseboat
Houseboats travel at a maximum of around 10 miles per hour, which isn’t fast enough for water skiing.
Can you add on watercraft rentals or other things like paddleboards? Can I bring my own?
Speedboat, personal watercraft (jet ski) and water toy rentals are popular additions to a houseboat rental vacation and we have these items at most of our destinations.

Water toys can include water skis, wakeboards, ski tubes, kayaks and paddle boards.

You are welcome to bring your own speed boats, personal watercraft, and water toys.

Some of our destinations have special inspection requirements for speedboats and personal watercraft so please inform our staff if you are planning to bring these items when you are scheduling your trip.
Will cell phones work or will there be WIFI
Cell phones will work at all of our destinations, although sometimes reception can be spotty or just not available depending on your proximity and line of site to a cell tower.

WIFI is not available to houseboat renters while they are out on the lake. There is WIFI at the marinas for some of our destinations.
Can you lock the doors?
You can lock the doors on a houseboat, although it is rare that you would have to do so.
What can you do on a houseboat? Hot tub, slide, diving board, etc
All houseboats have a swimming platform on the back of the houseboat with a ladder that comes down into the water for easy re-entry onto the houseboat. Many of our houseboats have swim slides.

Some of our houseboats have hot tubs, covered top deck sitting areas, wet bars, and premium onboard sound and video systems. Some houseboats even have satellite television.
Is Smoking or Alcohol Allowed?
All of our houseboats are non-smoking. Alcohol is allowed onboard all houseboats. Normal “rules of the road” apply to operation/piloting of the houseboat. There shouldn’t be open containers near the helm while the houseboat is being piloted. Houseboat pilots should not be under the influence while operating a houseboat.
Are Firearms Allowed on the Houseboat?
We respect gun owners, hunters, and target shooters, but firearms are not allowed on the houseboats. If you’re a concealed or open carry permit holder, please ask us about the rules specific to the destination you are visiting.
Do you need a small boat? Can you tow a small boat with your houseboat?
Small boat rentals are not required, but they do make a great recreation option allowing for water sports as well as faster/more economical exploration of the destination.

Yes, you can tow the smaller boat behind the houseboat.
If Lake Levels Are Low, Will it Impact My Trip?
Lake levels rarely (if ever) affect a renters’ enjoyment of their time at our destinations. Typically, all the same opportunities for fun are available whether water levels are high or low. In extremely low water levels there can be certain areas of the lake no longer accessible.
Will I Get Seasick?
Motion or seasickness is very rare on inland bodies of water because if there are any waves, they are very small.
How do I refuel if needed mid trip?
Most of our houseboats have very large fuel tanks which provide enough fuel for a full week-long trip. If a renter does need to refuel, they would need to find a marina with a fuel station for refueling. The staff at most marinas are very helpful and will even board your houseboat so that you can safely pull in and out of the fueling station.
How fast do houseboats go?
About 10 miles per hour is the top speed for a houseboat.
What to do in case of an emergency in the middle of a lake?
Every houseboat is equipped with a CB radio where a special channel is reserved strictly for emergencies. Instructions on how to call in an emergency are part of the rental orientation.
Are there extra precautions for children on houseboats?
Water safety is paramount with children and adults alike. For young children, a life vest should be worn at all times when the child has access to the water. Life vests are provided at all destination at no charge. However, we do recommend that you consider purchasing a life vest for your child at a local sporting goods store prior to you houseboating vacation. In this way, you can ensure a well fitted and comfortable life vest.
Are boats wheelchair accessible?
We have specific houseboats at Lake Mohave that are wheelchair accessible.
Are life vests required?
Life vests are provided on every houseboat and you are encouraged to wear a life vest if you’re not a confident swimmer when you have access to the water. Children should wear life vests at all times that they have easy access to the water.
How do I know where I am going (GPS)?
Every houseboat has a map and navigational instruction is provided as part of the orientation.

Blue Herron Houseboat

$ Pre/Post $ In Season

$2,595 $3,695

• Rental Periods are either Monday to Friday, or Friday to Monday.

• Pre-Season begins when we open until June12; Post-Season starts on Labor Day.

• Price is for the rental period. Does not include gas and oil. Security Deposit additional, and is non-refundable if you cancel.

• Special event weekends may be priced in season.

Redneck Rental Houseboat

$ Pre/Post $ In Season

$895 $1,395

• Rental Periods are either Monday to Friday, or Friday to Monday.

• Pre-Season begins when we open until June12; Post-Season starts on Labor Day.

• Price is for the rental period. Does not include gas and oil. Security Deposit additional, and is non-refundable if you cancel.

• Special event weekends may be priced in season.

Sea Weed Houseboat

$ Pre/Post $ In Season

$1,395 $1,695

• Rental Periods are either Monday to Friday, or Friday to Monday.

• Pre-Season begins when we open until June12; Post-Season starts on Labor Day.

• Price is for the rental period. Does not include gas and oil. Security Deposit additional, and is non-refundable if you cancel.

• Special event weekends may be priced in season.

Striper Houseboat

$ Pre/Post $ In Season

$1,095 $1,595

• Rental Periods are either Monday to Friday, or Friday to Monday.

• Pre-Season begins when we open until June12; Post-Season starts on Labor Day.

• Price is for the rental period. Does not include gas and oil. Security Deposit additional, and is non-refundable if you cancel.

• Special event weekends may be priced in season.

Sun Runner Houseboat

$ Pre/Post $ In Season

$1,195 $1,595

• Rental Periods are either Monday to Friday, or Friday to Monday.

• Pre-Season begins when we open until June12; Post-Season starts on Labor Day.

• Price is for the rental period. Does not include gas and oil. Security Deposit additional, and is non-refundable if you cancel.

• Special event weekends may be priced in season.

Cove Dweller Houseboat

$ Pre/Post $ In Season

$1,495 $2,195

• Rental Periods are either Monday to Friday, or Friday to Monday.

• Pre-Season begins when we open until June12; Post-Season starts on Labor Day.

• Price is for the rental period. Does not include gas and oil. Security Deposit additional, and is non-refundable if you cancel.

• Special event weekends may be priced in season.

Unforgettable Houseboat

$ Pre/Post $ In Season

$1,395 $2,095

• Rental Periods are either Monday to Friday, or Friday to Monday.

• Pre-Season begins when we open until June12; Post-Season starts on Labor Day.

• Price is for the rental period. Does not include gas and oil. Security Deposit additional, and is non-refundable if you cancel.

• Special event weekends may be priced in season.

Raystowner Houseboat

$ Pre/Post $ In Season

$1,695 $2,595

• Rental Periods are either Monday to Friday, or Friday to Monday.

• Pre-Season begins when we open until June12; Post-Season starts on Labor Day.

• Price is for the rental period. Does not include gas and oil. Security Deposit additional, and is non-refundable if you cancel.

• Special event weekends may be priced in season.

The Islander Houseboat

$ Pre/Post $ In Season

$1,795 $2,695

• Rental Periods are either Monday to Friday, or Friday to Monday.

• Pre-Season begins when we open until June12; Post-Season starts on Labor Day.

• Price is for the rental period. Does not include gas and oil. Security Deposit additional, and is non-refundable if you cancel.

• Special event weekends may be priced in season.

Juniata Houseboat

$ Pre/Post $ In Season

$1,695 $2,595

• Rental Periods are either Monday to Friday, or Friday to Monday.

• Pre-Season begins when we open until June12; Post-Season starts on Labor Day.

• Price is for the rental period. Does not include gas and oil. Security Deposit additional, and is non-refundable if you cancel.

• Special event weekends may be priced in season.

Merry Margaret Houseboat

$ Pre/Post $ In Season

$1,695 $2,595

• Rental Periods are either Monday to Friday, or Friday to Monday.

• Pre-Season begins when we open until June12; Post-Season starts on Labor Day.

• Price is for the rental period. Does not include gas and oil. Security Deposit additional, and is non-refundable if you cancel.

• Special event weekends may be priced in season.

Nauti Buoy Houseboat

$ Pre/Post $ In Season

$1,395 $1,895

• Rental Periods are either Monday to Friday, or Friday to Monday.

• Pre-Season begins when we open until June12; Post-Season starts on Labor Day.

• Price is for the rental period. Does not include gas and oil. Security Deposit additional, and is non-refundable if you cancel.

• Special event weekends may be priced in season.

About Us

American Houseboat Rentals offers the houseboats and destinations that you need. From compact houseboats to floating palaces, you can enjoy amenities like whirlpool spas, wet bars and water slides. Once you embark on your vacation, you can enjoy days spent napping under the gentle rays of the sun and nights spent gazing at the stars.

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Toll Free Phone: (877) 331-4421

Local Phone: (801) 683-1318

Raystown Lake Houseboat Rentals

Discover the Wildlife of Raystown Lake with a Houseboat Rental

Lounge on Your Houseboat or Explore

Have an Unbeatable Vacation at Raystown Lake with Our Houseboat Rentals

Raystown Lake Houseboat Rental FAQ

Learning How to Drive the Boat - Is there a video people watch, live training, combo of the two methods?

Are there driver requirements for steering the houseboat? Min age, valid license, etc?

What Are the Houseboat Rental Pickup and Drop Off Times?

What Do We Do When Arriving at the Marina?

Is Pre-Boarding (option to stay on the boat overnight the day before) Allowed?

How far in advance should trip be reserved? Is it too late to book this season

Cancelation and refund policy

What to Pack? - Things outside clothes swim suit, etc

What Equipment is on Board?Coolers, bedding, towels, fresh water, etc?

Where and when to anchor boat? Is there a best time of day? Location?

How long of a trip is recommended for first-timers? What about experienced houseboaters?

How many people will a boat hold? Do infants count as people?

Any meal planning tips

Can You Water Ski Behind a Houseboat

Can you add on watercraft rentals or other things like paddleboards? Can I bring my own?

Will cell phones work or will there be WIFI

Can you lock the doors?

What can you do on a houseboat? Hot tub, slide, diving board, etc

Is Smoking or Alcohol Allowed?

Are Firearms Allowed on the Houseboat?

Do you need a small boat? Can you tow a small boat with your houseboat?

If Lake Levels Are Low, Will it Impact My Trip?

Will I Get Seasick?

How do I refuel if needed mid trip?

How fast do houseboats go?

What to do in case of an emergency in the middle of a lake?

Are there extra precautions for children on houseboats?

Are boats wheelchair accessible?

Are life vests required?

How do I know where I am going (GPS)?

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