If you are interested in house boats, you may have been to many boat shows. You have toured the big luxurious houseboats and seen all the bells and whistles. Now you may be asking yourself if you would really enjoy houseboating. Well a good way to find out, without committing yourself to another monthly payment, is to try renting a houseboat. This can be accomplished at many different resorts across the country. This way you can pick the time of year which best suits your needs and allows you to enjoy the many different lakes and rivers. Renting a houseboat is an affordable way to introduce yourself into the wonderful world of houseboating and there is no better way to spend a family vacation.

Many of the houseboat rental operations will have four different seasons. The Value season runs from March 1 - May 23 and September 2 - October 31, with rates at about $795 for three-four-nights and R1100 for seven-nights. The Spring season is the middle of May - June 9. during this time frame the rates are about $950 for three-four-nights and $1650 for a seven night stay. The Prime season starts the middle of July and ends August 4. During this time, there are only seven-night stays which cost about $3300. The Regular season is June 10 - July 18 and August 1 - September 1. In these time frames you will pay about $1450 for three-four-nights and $2175 for the full seven-nights. What makes it even more affordable then buying, is when two or three families go in together. By splitting the $1650 between three families, you rental cost is only $550. Renting a houseboat is a fabulous way to experience houseboating for the first time. Keep in mind, however, that once you do rent, you will be hooked. It's addictive.

Every year, houseboat rentals increase. Many of them are return customers from a previous rental experience. They return for another week on the water with new spirits and with amazement that such a vacation existed for so long without them knowing about it. The enjoyment rentals have while on a houseboat usually comes as a surprise to first-timers. At a glance, many perceive a houseboat as a slow, awkward floating mass. It's difficult for many to realize the good times houseboating offers. But, once aboard with the variety of fun-filled options available, perceptions change, and new ones form. Think of it this way. A houseboat is a home. It offers all the amenities of home, all the comforts that make life great. But this home is on water. Right out your back door is plenty of riding room for your personal watercraft, fishing, waterskiing, and/or tubing. Swimming is always a favorite too. On the upper deck, there is plenty of room to present your body to the Sun Goddess and just sit back to some good old plain relaxing. The upper deck provides a great place to relax with a handful of friends and allows you to lie under the stars to view another immaculate part of this wonderful world. Think of the scenery, how it can change if you don't like what you see out your kitchen window. The advantages are plenty. Perhaps it's time to give it a try. Forget Disney World this year. Instead, spend some time with your family on the lake of your choice. There are over 200 rental operations to choose from don't be afraid to write us a letter that tells of your experience. If your houseboat trip is anything like ours, it will be great.

Here is a generalized list of what you can expect to find on the typical rental houseboat.

General Features include:
Captains Flying Bridge for sundeck driving
Water Slide
Railed Sundeck Area
Swimming platform
VHF Radio, Television, VCR, Cassette Stereo
Built in Ice Chest
* Barbecue Grill
Electric Generator
Heat/AC
Safety Railings
Hot Water Heater
Storage Areas
Sleeping for 10, Note: Some rentals will have more, some will have less and bed sizes may vary.

Kitchen will include
Microwave, Range/Oven
Two Refrigerators
Blender, Toaster and Coffee Maker Safety Features Include:
Fire Extinguisher
Life Preservers
Sound Devices and Night Lights
Linens included for up to 10 people: Towels, Sheets, Blankets, Pillows and Pillow Cases Supplies include
Silverware, cooling utensils, plates, cups, garbage can and liners, bucket, mop, dust pan and broom

Consider This
There is a confirmation deposit of $500. It is not part of the package price, but is refundable at the end of the trip when you return the boat in the same condition as you received it. The full payment is due about 45 days prior to boarding. Many rentals do not allow for you to bring Sparky the dog, so make sure you check with the resort about bringing pets along. Rentals are limited to adults who are 21-years and older with a valid driver's license.

Caution
By law we are required to inform you: Due to the side effects which may result from you trying this houseboat adventure, please proceed with caution. After you participate in this type of activity, we cannot be held responsible for the hours of fun on the personal watercraft or the many bruises from your waterskiing activities and/or the total relaxation that will occur as you kick your feet up at the end of the day to enjoy the quiet serenity around you. For the time of your life, decide in what part of the country you want a houseboat experience, then call one of the rental operations and get your dates set.