14 Of The Best Houseboat Holidays In Australia

Fond of sand dunes and salty air? From historic paddle steamers to floating retro havens, here are 14 of the best houseboats in Australia to hire for a cruisy holiday.

The best houseboats in Australia all have one thing in common: tranquil waterfront views. Houseboat holidays are growing in popularity around the country due to an ever-increasing desire to be on or near the water. Be it a 12-berth luxury cruiser with all the mod cons or a quirky floating retro cabin for two, the market is buoyant.

The good news is the only prerequisite to drive a houseboat is that you are over 18 years of age. And if you are not confident handling the life aquatic, you can ask an expert to be at the helm. Here are some of Australia’s best houseboat holidays where you can explore everywhere from the mighty Murray River in South Australia to the Hawkesbury River in NSW. And while some are not technically houseboats, they do provide an opportunity to test the waters in style. Whatever floats your boat.

1. Oh Buoy, Berowra Waters, NSW

You will want to dream up your fantasy future as a boaty on Berowra Waters when onboard the retro dream that is Oh Buoy . Spend the day drifting along the waterway in the 1960s-era boat which is flooded with light that winks off the water, lapping all around.

a woman resting on a hammock onboard Oh Buoy, Berowra Waters, NSW — Embrace total relaxation while holidaying on the water. (Image: Heart&Sea)

Owners Jess and Laurie Rissman have lovingly restored the boat with upcycled furniture and retro finds and what better way to holiday on the Hawkesbury. Guests onboard Oh Buoy receive a complementary fruit or cheese platter and bottle of wine on arrival and access to dinky dinghy Ginger. Oh Buoy indeed.

a ladder onboard Oh Buoy, Berowra Waters, NSW — Holiday on the Hawkesbury onboard *Oh Buoy*. (Image: Heart&Sea)

2. Lilypad, Palm Beach, NSW

Make like a leaf and float above the waters of Sydney’s Palm Beach onboard Lilypad, a floating haven that is more villa than vessel. The Mediterranean-inspired space is barnacled to a sheltered marina in Pittwater off the Barrenjoey Peninsula, some 41 kilometres north of the CBD. Book an all-inclusive package at the one-bedroom two-storey villa to enjoy chef-prepared meals and the onboard wine cellar, and private self-drive tender to explore the nearby beaches.

a drone shot of Lilypad, Palm Beach, NSW — Embrace a floating holiday in Sydney’s Palm Beach onboard Lilypad. (Image: @cocorepublic)

3. The Nook, Wellington East, SA

There’s no better way to appreciate the mighty Murray River than when cosied up in self-contained floating suite, The Nook (sister cabin to The Cube). The Nook won Best Small Home category on Season 2 of Channel 9’s Australia’s Best Homes, and is moored at the Wellington Private Marina, in SA. According to the manager of Collectiv Retreats, Trevor Burnett, The Nook is aimed at those who want to enjoy the serenity of the surrounding wetlands, river and wildlife. It was built from recycled timbers and features stained-glass windows, a gorgeous galley kitchen and fireplaces.

a lounge with windows onboard The Nook, Wellington East, SA — No need to choose between crackling fire and water views onboard the Nook.

4. The Cube on the Murray River, SA

Take a tiny home. Add water. If it’s a slow stay you’re after, this floating pod stationed amid the reeds overlooking the lake in SA’s Wellington East, is where you will want to cast yourself adrift.

the waterfront balcony at The Cube on the Murray River, SA at sunset — Watch the sun sink below the horizon from your waterfront balcony on the Murray River.

The Cube , which sleeps two, was fashioned from a shipping container and placed on a pontoon. Wake to the dawn chorus of warbling birds and then curl up in one of the egg chairs on the sun deck to watch the mist roll over the Murray.

a hammock at sunset in The Cube on the Murray River, SA — Farwell last light from your hammock with a cocktail in hand.

5. High River on the Murray River, SA

Being onboard the High River on the Murray is to see one of the most scenic stretches of Australia’s longest river at its finest. The off-grid boat has 20kw of solar panels so it’s as quiet as the wind rushing through the trees.

an aerial view of the houseboat at High River on the Murray River, SA — Trace the curves of the Murray River on this off-grid escape.

The houseboat has six king-size beds, each with its own ensuite. There’s also a rooftop bar and spacious outdoor dining area. High River can be hired for your own exclusive holiday, or you can enjoy a tour run by Murray River Trails , one of the leading eco-tourism operators in the region.

the houseboat exterior of High River on the Murray River, SA — Experience outback luxury onboard High River on the Murray.

6. PS Emmylou, Echuca, Victoria

The best way to get to know the curves of the Murray River is onboard paddle steamer PS Emmylou . There’s something wonderfully meditative about watching the vignettes shift along the waterway, which winds through a grove of old red river gums like a ribbon.

The replica paddle steamer, powered by a 1906 Marshall & Sons steam engine, chugs along the watery highway in accordance with the tides. Each of the luxury cabins onboard the boat, which offers three-, four- and seven-night cruises, has a private ensuite.

the PS Emmylou, Echuca, Victoria on Murray River — Wind past a grove of old red river gums onboard PS *Emmylou*.

7. Coomera Houseboats, Gold Coast, Queensland

It’s a little-known fact that the Gold Coast has more waterways than Amsterdam and Venice combined. Explore the many twists and turns of the river system onboard a 12-berth Coomera Houseboats cruiser that will see you pootling from the Gold Coast Marina through Mackenzies Channel and past Perrys Hole in style.

a blue sky Coomera houseboat in Gold Coast, Queensland — Cruise along the Gold Coast waterways onboard a Coomera Houseboat.

Pull up in the Pimpana River and put your crab pots in or drift around Tipplers Passage where you will see pods of dolphins playing in your V-shaped wake.

the interior of the Blue Sky Coomera houseboat in Gold Coast, Queensland — The amenities onboard are all top-notch.

8. The Edge, Lake Eildon, Victoria’s High Country

Home will feel like a five-star waterfront hotel when you drop anchor on Lake Eildon. Those who are happiest horizontal should centre themselves on a lounge overlooking the lake onboard The Edge, from Water’s Edge Lake Eildon Houseboat Hire .

Spend the day drifting onboard the houseboat which has wraparound windows to let in the light. Gliding over the lake will change the way you view the Central Highlands region of Victoria. The houseboat comprises four bedrooms, a galley kitchen and dining area and two luxe living areas. It’s perfect for a family or a group of friends.

The Edge houseboat on Lake Eildon, Victoria’s High Country — Drop anchor on Lake Eildon.

9. Five Star Luxury Spa, Wiseman’s Ferry, Hawkesbury River, NSW

The best houseboats for hire in Australia allow you to take in the full effect of our landscapes. Unhitch from your mooring on the Hawkesbury River and putt around this watery highway that is hemmed in by grey-green bushland. As the name suggests, the Five Star Luxury Spa has a heated 10-person spa. Out-source the skippering to your wannabe boatie mate so you can focus on soaking up the sun in the spa, glass of sparkling Australian wine in hand.

10. Cruise-Away, Walpole-Nornalup, WA

Happiness is a houseboat built for two. Cruise-Away is a four-berth houseboat better known as ‘the honeymoon boat’ moored within the magical Walpole-Nornalup National Park in WA. Pick up a few top drops from Margaret River’s best wineries to enjoy out on the sun deck, watching the huge skies stretched like a canvas above. There’s a dinghy provided so you can try your hand at fishing in one of the inlets. Hang up a rope swing and bombs away.

11. The Salty Dog, Newport, Sydney, Australia

The Salty Dog was built as a romantic houseboat for two. When you first set your sights on The Salty Dog, you will recognise it from the pages of Inside Out and House & Garden. What better way to appreciate Pittwater than when cosied up in the self-contained boathouse?

The Salty Dog houseboat in Newport, Sydney, Australia — The Salty Dog houseboat is perched on tranquil waters in Newport, Sydney.

Expect gun-barrel views of the water as you wake up in this calm and restful off-grid space with windows all around. There is a ladder for access into the water and a dingy with oars if you want to explore. Stake a claim on the back deck to watch the sun set over the view.

the dining area inside The Salty Dog houseboat in Newport, Sydney, Australia — The stylish interiors will make it easy to call this place home – and hard to leave.

12. Mandurah Houseboats, WA

Skipper your own boat, suitably called Just Chillin’ and dive right into exploring the many waterways around Mandurah. Chart your course across the Peel Inlet and into the Murray River onboard the boat, which sleeps 10. While the idea of piloting a boat may seem daunting, Mandurah Houseboats will provide an orientation lesson before you set off. Download some audiobooks; restful contemplation awaits.

13. Riverdream Boatel, Mannum, SA

The extravagance onboard Riverdream Boatel has a lot to do with the scenery along SA’s magnificent Murray River. The luxurious river boat has a glass-enclosed sky lounge, swim platform, al fresco BBQ area, gourmet kitchen and more.

the bedroom onboard Riverdream Boatel, Mannum, SA — Soak up a luxury stay while cruising the magnificent Murray River.

The houseboat has five king-bed staterooms with lavish furnishings and en suites. Want to kick back and keep your nose in a book? You can elevate your onboard experience by booking a private chef.

a private bathtub with river views onboard Riverdream Boatel, Mannum, SA — Freshen up in your private tub overlooking the scenic river.

14. Kimberley Dreaming, WA

There’s nothing Ord-inary about a houseboat holiday onboard Kimberley Dreaming . The houseboat sleeps six but is ideal for two couples keen on exploring the upper reaches of the Ord River. Watch for birds sashaying theatrically on the shoreline. Admire the dramatic gorge walls rising steeply from the water’s edge. And find crocodiles basking in the sun. Choose your own adventure: fish, watch for black butcher birds, keep your nose in a book or play board games for hours.

Warmer days call for slowing down and relaxing in nature. Discover why The Tweed is the ultimate destination to do just that.

As the end of the year draws near, the need for rest and restoration grows ever more prominent. For many, that means heading into nature – and there’s plenty of science to back up the benefits of doing so. It quite literally makes us happier as it reduces stress hormones, lowers our blood pressure and more. And what better place to lean into this feel-good effect than during summer in The Tweed (in the Northern Rivers region of NSW)? Blending sparkling beaches, riverside towns and hinterland villages, this area has nature covered, while also offering top activities and dining options.

And of course, pack your SPF. We Are Feel Good Inc’s Ultra-Light Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 is a lightweight and fast-absorbing formula that keeps your skin hydrated and shielded, thanks to nourishing Coconut Oil and Vitamin E. But it’s also helping preserve the natural beauty around you on your Tweed vacation, thanks to 30 per cent ocean waste packaging.

Discover eight experiences that make The Tweed the perfect place for summer.

1. Underwater worlds

two people swimming after turtle on the tweed — Get a chance to swim with the locals.

There’s something about the ocean that calls to us as humans, and what’s below the surface is even more magical.

Green, hawksbill and loggerhead turtles (not to mention an abundance of other marine life) all use the protected waters around Cook Island, near Fingal Head, as their foraging ground, making it the perfect place to dive and snorkel to spot these adorable creatures.

Join Cooly Eco Adventures on a guided snorkelling tour that combines unforgettable turtle encounters with an inspiring look into marine conservation.

2. Farm-to-table dining

table spread at Potager restaurant — Treat your taste buds at Potager. (Image: Cara Sophie)

Respecting the land and nature also means appreciating its abundance of food. From farm-to-table cafes and boutique breweries to river cruises and restaurants championing local produce, dining around The Tweed often means engaging with the best local producers.

The award-winning Potager Restaurant , part of The Hinterland Collection , is the perfect example; beginning life as a kitchen garden, the passion to champion local producers is woven into every dish. Vegetables, fruit and herbs are picked from the garden or sourced from other local producers, the seafood comes from the Northern Rivers, and meat is sourced from ethical local producers. Even the cocktail list features local distillers.

Extend your stay with a night (or several) at boutique on-site accommodation, Potager House . This French-inspired country four-bedroom retreat boasts stunning views of the surrounding hills and nearby ocean, as well as a large pool, outdoor entertaining area and infrared sauna.

3. Water wellness

Waterguru Mindfulness in the Mangroves summer on the tweed — Find mindfulness in mangroves. (Image: Matt Johnson)

You’ll find mindfulness while floating around the mangroves of Kingscliff’s Cudgen Creek at any time, but Watersports Guru offers an immersive experience to help guests do so with more intent. Join a 90-minute guided session on a stand-up paddleboard to reconnect with nature and relax through breathwork, gentle movement and sensory awareness.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, Watersports Guru also offer Kayak fishing adventures or join a Sea Turtle Odyssey experience.

4. Restorative seaside stays

woman relaxing in spa at Halcyon Wellness, halcyon house — Unwind at Halcyon Wellness.

The Tweed encourages locals and visitors alike to slow down. To really indulge, a seaside stay is a must. Halcyon House has understood the assignment, blending a wellness philosophy centred on balance and self-discovery with luxurious surrounds. Stay in one of 22 rooms and suites (each individually designed by eclectic interior designer Anna Spiro) right on the beachfront. Book restorative treatments at the onsite spa, Halcyon Wellness, relax by the pool, dine at the hatted Paper Daisy restaurant and just let The Tweed work its magic.

While Blue Water Motel offers a relaxed coastal escape, just steps from Kingscliff Beach. Settle in stylish rooms, recently restyled by Jason Grant, nodding to the cool of Kingscliff with a fun retro vibe. Hire a bike from reception to explore the surrounding area.

5. Tasty drops

The owners at Husk Farm Distillery aren’t just about creating high-quality rum: they’re also farmers themselves. In fact, they create one of the world’s only single estate, farm-to-bottle spirits. Join a Farm to Bottle tour to discover the sustainable ‘full circle’ distilling practices used here, and even get hands-on with your own cane knife to help harvest and juice your own stalk of cane. And, of course, a welcome drink plus complimentary tastings along the way.

6. Rail trail adventures

Exploring the rolling green slopes and historic towns of the 24-kilometre Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is one of the best ways to connect with the region’s lush hinterland and interesting heritage. In this section of the trail, discover the area’s railway history at heritage-listed Murwillumbah Railway Station, and traverse by 18 railway bridges and through two railway tunnels.

Linking vibrant towns and villages with the larger hub of Murwillumbah, this section of the trail is covered in asphalt or compacted gravel, making it accessible for all ages and abilities, from prams to adaptive bikes.

7. Linger longer

surfer at fingal heads the tweed — Enjoy beachside locations, like Fingal Heads.

Linger longer at one of the seven idyllic beach, river and creekside locations of Tweed Holiday Parks – including at Tweed Heads, Kingscliff Beach, Hastings Point and Pottsville South. All just steps from the water’s edge, they make the ideal base to unwind, or head out for exploration of The Tweed. Choose from luxury waterfront cabins, accessible cabins, surfari tents (yes, they are basically glamping tents) or spacious sites for caravans, motorhomes and campervans or tents.

Find your feel-good summer in The Tweed at visitthetweed.com.au .

The life aquatic: 14 of the best houseboat holidays in Australia