Whether you want to be in one place or explore a river or lake, houseboats offer perfect accommodation alternative to conventional hotels. Houseboats range from traditional flat models to modern, sleek designs and usually have areas for cooking, socializing, and sleeping. But first, you should get the right boat that will meet your needs and preferences.
Here are the steps to renting a houseboat.
1. Decide whether you want to sail the vessel to go from one place to another or simply remain in one place. Check the license requirements for the rental location and see to it that your licenses are up-to-date. In many places, a special boating license is not required but you may need to have a boater education card in hand. If you want to have a houseboat vacation without the responsibility, you can choose a houseboat hotel.
2. To increase your chances of getting a good quality houseboat, look for a houseboat charter company that focuses on houseboats. A company that has other types of rentals and only a handful of houseboats may not be able to give as much safety information as hire company with a larger inventory. Because your family's or party's safety depends on the boat, do business with a reputable houseboat hire company that provides houseboat orientation sessions, complete boat maintenance reports, extensive safety information, and comprehensive houseboat description.
3. If possible, visit the vessel in person and in advance. Houseboat photos posted on company business sites could be misleading and any damage (which can be uncomfortable and dangerous) are certainly not shown in photos. Carefully inspect the hull for signs of damage. If you are going on a longer vacation, it is best to arrange a dive inspection to make sure you and your party is safe. If you aren't able to visit the boat in advance or if you're only spending a few nights on the boat, ask the hire company for references and check company reviews online. Although most houseboat hire companies will require you to provide a deposit, don't pay the full charter fee until you've seen and checked the houseboat in person. This is to avoid being scammed.
4. Prior to finishing the process of hiring, ask about matters regarding your trip. If you're renting in a region that prohibits access to shore, ask if you could rent a smaller vessel to reach the houseboat. Ask about linens, electric power, power generators, availability of storage for frozen foods and supplies. If you are inexperienced or less experienced with regards to houseboat vacations, talk to the hire company about where and how to get fuel, proper care for the houseboat while on board, emergency procedures, and about the local waterways.
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