Why spend extra on a room with a view when you can be part of the scenery? Renting a houseboat can save you money, and you’ll get the best lake view in town.
Renting a houseboat with friends or family is often cheaper than booking hotel rooms.
Houseboats prices can range anywhere from $1,000 to $13,000 a week.
You don’t need to have a background in sailing—most of these boats are easy to navigate, and there are experts at the marina who can help you out.
Web sites such as houseboating.org and houseboatingworld.com allow you to browse vessels and destinations to fit your budget.
Remember, one drawback to houseboat rentals are the gas prices: They burn through eight to 18 gallons an hour while moving at the slow pace of five to 10 miles per hour.
To save money, anchor the boat as much as possible.
Do that, and you may find houseboats competitive even with hotels, especially in popular resort areas during the high season.
Not sure your boating skills are up to snuff? Check out Boating Safety Basics.
Like boating? Find out how to get Cheaper Chartered Boats.
Or try a different sort of boat trip … Eco-Boating: Floating Green.
