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.

No matter your age and no matter your interests, Victoria’s coastal Bellarine region makes for a memorable getaway for the whole family.

Curving into Port Phillip Bay and extending south from Geelong, The Bellarine is a gorgeous coast-meets-country destination. It’s a captivating mix of beachside towns, rolling farms and vineyards, effortlessly cool eating and drinking spots and coastal vistas that seem to stretch beyond the horizon.

Among its many highlights is a plethora of family-friendly activities to suit all ages and all interests. Here’s your guide to the ultimate Bellarine getaway guaranteed to keep every generation happy.

1. Tuckerberry Hill Farm

There may be no better way to spend an early morning than by foraging and feasting on your own bounty of berries. At Tuckerberry Hill Farm , you can pick blueberries, strawberries and stone fruit from November through March. Take them home or enjoy on the farm’s sun-dappled grounds.

Tuckerberry also has a regular market selling farm-fresh produce, plus an inviting on-site cafe doing light lunches, drinks, home-baked treats and condiments – many of which incorporate the farm’s own harvest.

2. The Oxley Estate

A memorable holiday starts with a memorable place to stay, and The Oxley Estate delivers. Situated in the relaxed coastal town of Portarlington, the sprawling site offers thoughtfully styled rooms and activities that’ll keep both parents and kids entertained.

Wander the fragrant rose gardens, olive grove and fruit-laden orchards. Meet the resident alpacas, donkeys, goats, sheep, chickens and ducks. Challenge your crew to a round of giant chess or mini golf. Or cool off in the shimmering saltwater pool after a busy day of exploring.

Different room types cater to different groups, with the largest able to comfortably sleep eight.

3. Oneday Estate

Oneday Estate is a must-visit. The winery lets you try small-batch, estate-grown shiraz, pinot noir and riesling. It’s also a vibrant and character-filled Sunday lunch spot.

The on-site eatery and bar hosts weekly Sunday Sessions accompanied by tunes from local musicians, a buzzy atmosphere and flavour-packed food and drink. Order a round of delicious woodfired pizzas with toppings to suit all tastes, alongside a glass of Oneday’s signature wine.

The restaurant is also a sight to behold, an eclectic stone-and-timber hall crafted from recycled materials and 100-year-old relics repurposed from the surrounding region.

4. BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon

BIG4 holiday parks are renowned for their all-ages appeal, and BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon in the coastal enclave of Queenscliff is no different. The pool and gym are a given, but there’s also a playground, pickleball and basketball courts, a jumbo-sized jump pad, an interactive games arena and an indoor games room equipped with toys, activities and entertainment.

The diverse range of accommodation spans compact studios designed for three guests, all the way up to expansive beach houses accommodating up to 10, providing comfort and flexibility to suit every size of family.

5. Bellarine Railway

If your entourage includes any locomotive enthusiasts, book a journey aboard the Bellarine Railway . The more than 100-year-old steam train transports you to a bygone era and takes you through the rolling farmland and windswept coastal landscapes that make The Bellarine so beautiful.

The Swan Bay Express is an easy 45-minute ride perfect for younger passengers (and even allows dogs on board), or you could opt for a themed trip. There are seasonal events like the Polar Express (a festive favourite in the lead-up to Christmas), along with the Blues Train (a high-energy experience of live music and dancing) and the Q Train (a roving fine-dining feast celebrating regional produce).

6. The Dunes

waiter holding desserts at The Dunes, the bellarine — Save room for dessert. (Image: Visit Vic)

The Dunes offers the perfect balance of polished and playful, a breezy beachside bar and restaurant that appeals to adults and kids alike.

Feast on moreish snacks, share plates and mains from the Italian-inspired menu, or a selection of San Marzano-topped pizzas fresh from the wood-fired oven. Pair your meal with a classic cocktail, an ice-cold beer or a glass from the generous drinks menu, which brims with local drops. Little ones are well catered for with a line-up of kid-approved meals for breakfast and lunch.

If you’re simply swinging by en route to the family-friendly beach, grab a bite at The Dunes’ beachside kiosk before strolling down for a paddle or surf.

7. Sea All Dolphin Swims

dolphins playing in The Bellarine — Spot the locals with Sea All Dolphin Swims. (Image: Visit Vic)

The sparkling waters around The Bellarine are home to dolphins, fur seals, little penguins, humpback and southern right whales, plus a flurry of seabirds. Sea All Dolphin Swims lets you see some of these magnificent animals up close aboard one of their small-group vessels.

Head out on a sightseeing tour and spot local wildlife darting around the boat, or dive right in with a swim adventure tour. You’ll be swimming alongside dolphins and seals in their natural habitat – a bucket-list experience you won’t forget fast.

Swimming and snorkelling gear is provided, and guides are trained to ensure a gentle, eco-friendly encounter for both swimmers and sea creatures.

8. Jack Rabbit

aerial of jack rabbit winery and vineyard — Everyone has a menu to enjoy at Jack Rabbit. (Image: Visit Vic)

Jack Rabbit is a one-stop dining destination, with a casual cafe and refined restaurant in one place.

If your mood leans laid-back, the House of Jack Rabbit is a lovely spot for brunch, lunch or dinner. The cafe serves a produce-driven all-day menu filled with seasonal mains, generous sharing platters and a playful kids menu to suit even the pickiest of eaters.

If you’re after something more elevated, Jack Rabbit Restaurant does plates that change with the seasons and incorporate plenty of local produce. Even younger guests are well catered to, with a considered yet familiar kids’ menu that’s just as vibrant as the grown-up one.

To start planning your trip or for more inspiration, head to visitgeelongbellarine.com.au

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