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.

Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

Sydney City is magical in summer. Warm summer evenings beg to be spent sipping cool cocktails at one of many al fresco and rooftop bars. Ferries and buses are ready to transport travellers to the best nearby beaches for salty days on the sand. National parks and rainforests are waiting to be explored. And the city’s events calendar is packed, from live music to cultural attractions. All elements that call for a Sydney staycation.

Discover where to eat, stay and play for the perfect local getaway.

Where to stay

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Amid the bustle of the perfect Sydney staycation, one needs a place to escape to and recharge. Enter, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney . The hotel is an icon in its own right – nestled inside the 151-year-old building that was originally Sydney’s General Post Office, its heritage-listed sandstone walls and Victorian renaissance grandeur have been carefully preserved – providing a rare chance to sleep within Sydney’s history.

Despite its fascinating history, the hotel isn’t short on modern, luxurious comforts. Rooms and suites are available in both the modern high-rise with gorgeous views over the clock tower and lively city below, or inside the historical post office building itself.

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney Heritage Long Suite bathroom — Heritage rooms maintain their old-world style.

Either way, guests can enjoy sophisticated touches, including a deluxe bed and pillow menu, Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers, a digital concierge, a Vittoria coffee machine and amenities from the Balmain bathroom collection.

The team at this five-star hotel provides excellence and a quality experience for all their guests, while amenities like a gym help with a well-rounded stay. For a peaceful moment with sweeping city views, enter The Fullerton Club Lounge on level 28. This private haven for dining and relaxation is available to any guests staying on the hotel’s club floors and suites.

Add to this a central location in the CBD’s Martin Place, with easy access to Sydney’s top attractions, and convenience meets style.

Where to drink & dine

1. The Bar

the Fullerton Hotel afternoon tea at the bar — Indulge in the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Inside The Fullerton Hotel Sydney’s lobby, The Bar does more than sling a few delicious cocktails (although it certainly does that well). Its brown leather chairs and glass ceiling create the perfect, almost al fresco, setting for the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea .

Served daily from 12 to 4 pm, the afternoon tea is a nod to the cherished social occasion it once was during the Victorian Renaissance era. People like to dress up for this afternoon tea, and if you’re lucky, a pianist often sits down at the on-site grand piano, just adding to the elegance.

The afternoon tea is served high tea style, offering reimagined British flavours of the Victorian Renaissance era with a unique blend of Australia’s culinary heritage. A sweet layer offers delights like a Malted Milk Envelope (a milk mousse layered between two biscuits), Bakewell Pudding (a super tasty egg-based pudding), and Apple Charlotte.

On the savoury layer, expect finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber, egg and smoked salmon. While classic pinwheels and stuffed eggs almost make the menu. And, of course, all finished off with traditional scones served with cream and mixed berry jam.

Can’t fit in a whole afternoon tea? Be sure to at least order a slice of the 32-layered chocolate cake, a decadent mix of dark chocolate crémeux, fresh whipped cream, and Valrhona Azélia chocolate sauce. ⁣

2. The Place

the Fullerton Hotel the place dining — Dine in the stunning GPO atrium.

On level one of The Fullerton Hotel Sydney lives The Place – the hotel’s restaurant, in an atrium overlooking the former GPO. Here, dine on Modern Australian cuisine – think fresh, local seafood and a Riverina steak sandwich – along with a touch of Singaporean signature dishes, like Thai-style green curry or chicken satay. All in the shadow of the GPO clock tower, enjoying the GPO atrium’s natural light.

3. Local gelato

Couple enjoying ice-creams at First Fleet Park, The Rocks — Enjoy ice cream in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)

What is summer without ice cream and/or gelato? Luckily, there are plenty of options just a short walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or an after-sun treat.

What to do/see

1. GPO Heritage Tour

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney lobby — Be awed by the building’s history.

Want to know more about the building you’re staying in? The Fullerton Hotel Sydney offers a complimentary 90-minute GPO Heritage Tour. Follow a knowledgeable tour guide to discover the stories, tales and legends of the former Sydney General Post Office building.

From the iconic clock tower (completed in 1891) to the black-and-white tiled staircase at 1 Martin Place, which was once the main entrance to the GPO and today serves as a prominent feature of the building to the 24 stone faces (mascarons) on the Martin Place side of the building. Part of the 1880s-era facade (designed by architect James Barnet), each represents different states, countries and continents.

2. Circular Quay

aerial of circular quay sydney — Catch a ferry from Circular Quay. (Image: Destination NSW)

An easy walk or light rail ride away from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, lies the bustling Circular Quay. Here, you can sit for a drink and nibbles at the Opera Bar, or head into the iconic house itself for a show. It’s also a major ferry port, becoming your gateway to Sydney’s beaches, Luna Park and even Sydney Zoo.

3. Royal Botanic Gardens

view of circular quay from Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden — Wander through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Just beyond Circular Quay, discover Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through this 30-hectare, heritage-listed, botanical garden – exploring its differing sections, from Australian native botanicals to garden beds of vibrant flowers to towering groves of international trees.

It’s also the perfect place for a picnic, so pick up supplies before you come and enjoy a spot on the grassy meadow looking out into the harbour.

4. Theatre Royal

Just a one-minute walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, take in a show at Theatre Royal. Built in 1976, the theatre has been offering a broad range of entertainment since the 1990s. Expect a show roster that ranges from the classics (like Cats) to the modern) like Pretty Woman: The Musical).

Start planning a summer stay in Sydney worth remembering at fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-hotel-sydney.

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