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Houseboat Charter

Houseboat Charter

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Houseboat Charter

A houseboat is a true floating home designed to cruise at a gentle pace along the rivers and canals of Europe. Renting one means a holiday unlike any other: no stress of open-sea maneuvering, no wind to manage, just time to discover towns, villages and landscapes at the slow rhythm of the water. It is the ideal choice for families with children, groups of friends who want to travel together without giving up on space, and for anyone approaching boat rental for the first time without any sailing experience. 

Where to go on a houseboat holiday?

The most popular destinations for a houseboat river cruise are the canals and rivers of northern Europe. In France you can sail the legendary canals of Burgundy, the Camargue, the Canal du Midi and Brittany, between vineyards, castles and medieval villages. In the Netherlands you discover Amsterdam, Haarlem, Utrecht and the picturesque villages of Friesland through an incredibly dense network of canals. In Germany the Mecklenburg region offers lakes, forests and small towns. Ireland delivers cruising on the Shannon River, between wild nature and traditional pubs. Italy too has its houseboat area: the lagoons of the Po Delta and the Mincio, perfect for those who want to try the experience without traveling too far from home.

Do you need a boating licence to drive a houseboat?

In most European destinations a boating licence is not required to drive a houseboat. On check-in you are issued a temporary navigation permit after a short practical briefing (on average 30-60 minutes), during which the operator explains how to handle the boat, how to moor and how to cross locks. Speeds are low (typically 6-8 km/h) and cruising is daytime only, on calm waters: everything is designed so that even those who have never driven a boat before can enjoy the holiday safely. Italy and a few other countries are exceptions: always check the specific requirements when booking.

How much does it cost to rent a houseboat?

The price of a week on a houseboat depends on several factors: the season (high season from June to September is more expensive), the destination, the size of the boat and the number of cabins. A houseboat for 2-4 people starts from around 900-1,200 euros per week in low season, while a model for 8-10 people in high season can exceed 3,500 euros. To these costs you need to add fuel (paid on return based on actual consumption), optional linen and final cleaning packages, and lock transit or marina fees along the way.

How many people can a houseboat accommodate?

Houseboats come in very different sizes, from compact models for a couple to large boats for big groups. Small models have 1-2 cabins and host 2-4 people, perfect for a couple or a small family. Medium models, with 3-4 cabins, sleep 6-8 and are ideal for friends or two families travelling together. Larger models have 5-6 cabins and can host up to 10-12 people with spacious common areas. Almost all boats feature cabins with double or single beds, a private bathroom per cabin, a fully equipped kitchen, a lounge, TV, heating and, on premium models, air conditioning. A tip: always check the common spaces as well as the number of berths, to make sure you don't sacrifice comfort during the days spent on board.

Can I bring my dog on board a houseboat?

Yes, most charter companies allow dogs and small pets for a small end-of-rental cleaning fee, typically 50-100 euros per animal. Some operators ask you to declare the pet at the time of booking and may set limits on number or size. On board it is useful to bring the bowl, bed or usual blanket and some toys, while water and food are easily found in the villages along the route. River cruising is particularly suitable for dogs: the slow pace, the frequent stops in villages and the option to go ashore at any time make the holiday enjoyable for them as well.

Rent a houseboat in a practical and safe way!

Houseboat rental also requires a security deposit, paid on handover and returned at the end of the cruise if no damage has occurred. It is always useful to read the contract carefully, check what is included (on-board bikes, barbecue, inflatables for children, fishing kit) and what is not. At handover, inspect the boat with the operator, note any existing damage and practice the maneuvers before setting off. Bring non-slip shoes, a waterproof jacket and, if you travel with small children, make sure the on-board life jackets include their size. 

Our destinations

Choose your destination. We have 19000+ boats all over the world, we will for sure find the right one for you!
Spain
501 boats
France
1997 boats
Mediterranean
11098 boats
Atlantic Europe
158 boats
Northern Europe
789 boats
European Rivers
1915 boats
Caribbean
1342 boats
Oceania
109 boats
Indian Ocean
144 boats
West Africa
4 boats
Southeast Asia
124 boats
South America
21 boats
Australia
24 boats
East Africa
9 boats
Central American
38 boats
United States of America
4 boats

Marenauta is a global leader in yacht Charter!

Marenauta offers more than 19000 verified boats.

We have been in business since 2007 and in 19 years of experience we selected the best boats from certified companies offering services up to our high quality standards.

More than 110000 customers reviewed our services with a 4.9/5 rating and the few ones which were not 100% satisfied pushed us to do even better.

If you want to enjoy your next carefree sailing holiday too, all you need to do is find your boat and send us a request.
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