A first timer's guide to houseboating on the Hawkesbury

Whether you’re organising a get-together with extended family, planning a weekend getaway with a group of friends, or looking for a romantic and unconventional break for two, there’s a houseboat to suit.

While Australia has plenty of boating holidays up its sleeve, there’s nothing quite like a jaunt on the Hawkesbury River. At the heart of the river, inland between Sydney and the Central Coast, lies the charming riverside village of Wisemans Ferry – it’s here, at the oldest ferry crossing still in operation in NSW, that your houseboat sojourn on the Hawkesbury will begin. But before you set out, there are a range of details on what to do, where to go, who to book with and what it will cost that first-timers will need to know. Find our guide to everything you need to know about hiring a houseboat on the Hawkesbury below.

Where to book a houseboat on the Hawkesbury

There are a number of different operators on the Hawkesbury, offering everything from rather rustic and dated rooms on water, to sizable, streamlined modern vessels with all the bells and whistles you could possibly want.

Bear in mind that most houseboats sleep 10-12 at a maximum, pets are typically not allowed onboard, and many vessels are not wheelchair accessible. It’s also worth noting that houseboats typically offer a mixture of sleeping arrangements, such as bunk beds and lounge areas that convert into beds, in addition to private double or queen bedrooms – it pays to check these details in advance, particularly if you value your privacy. Find the main operators below.

Aerial view of a houseboat on the Hawkesbury — There are a number of different houseboat operators on the Hawkesbury to book with. (Image: Destination NSW)

Able Hawkesbury River Houseboats

Able Hawkesbury River Houseboats has nine different vessels for hire, from the basic Aquavan two- to four-berth boats (that measure just eight metres by 2.5) that feature just the bare essentials (two double berths that convert from day lounges, a two-burner cooker and grill, a combined shower and WC, a small fridge and a small TV) to the top-of-the-range 20-metre by eight-metre Five Star Spa, which features five queen bedrooms each with their own en-suite and LCD TV, plus a fully equipped kitchen, a heated 10-person spa and 10-seat outdoor dining set on the upper deck, and outdoor speakers.

Luxury Afloat

Luxury Afloat offers small six-berth houseboats through to more modern 12-berth houseboats, the latter of which are wheelchair accessible. Compared to some other providers on the Hawkesbury, its houseboats are a touch on the smaller side. Luxury Afloat’s houseboats feature in one of two categories: Original Fleet and Star Flight. The former feature a more old-fashioned design and are more compact, while the latter are more spacious and edge toward the luxury end of the spectrum.

Holidays Afloat

Holidays Afloat has a large fleet of 20 houseboats which range from two- to 12-berth. Their largest 47′ vessels are spacious, modern catamaran cruisers that comfortably sleep up to 12 people. The smallest are modern, European-style cruisers sleeping two people. In between are the traditional houseboats sleeping four to 10 people.

Astoria Houseboat

If you fancy the novelty of a houseboat, without the hassle of actually driving up and down the river, then consider the Astoria Houseboat – a super chic and rather spacious two-berth option, that’s anchored in the Berowra Waters area.

Hawkesbury Afloat

Hawkesbury Afloat has a number of vessels for hire, including a very spacious 33-foot two- to four-berth boat (the Horizon) and a number of more modern (if spartan) options that can sleep up to 12. Several of its boats have recently undergone renovations (hence the modern fit-outs) and a couple of its houseboats were only just built (dating between 2019 and 2021).

Jumping off a houseboat on the Hawkesbury River — Houseboating is a great group getaway option. (Image: Destination NSW)

The cost of hiring a houseboat on the Hawkesbury

The cost of hiring a houseboat on the Hawkesbury can fluctuate wildly depending on several different factors, including the size and facilities of the boat, the season, the length of your stay, and whether you opt for a midweek or weekend sojourn.

Expect to pay more over public holidays and in peak season (aka summer), as well as for weekends and for big and luxurious boats. The per night hire price often reduces the longer the stay you book.

At the lowest end of the range, expect to cough up around $400 per night for a midweek stay on a basic two-berth boat outside of peak season. While at the top end, you can expect to pay around $4,000 a night under the same conditions (a midweek stay outside of peak season) for a luxury 10-berth boat. In the height of peak season (most operators class these as the summer holidays) you’ll likely need to add a further 50% to that per night figure.

Beyond the cost of hiring the boat itself, keep in mind that there are several additional charges that you will need to factor in, including the cost of fuel, and sometimes also gas, used during your stay onboard. The former is typically charged per gallon, and based on current fuel prices, which staff should be able to supply you with. Top tip: travelling with the tide results in more economical fuel usage.

All companies also require a security deposit, with a value that reflects the size and cost of the boat. This fee is collected either at the time of booking, or in the final weeks leading up to your stay.

Sunset from the houseboat on the Hawkesbury — The cost of hiring a houseboat on the Hawkesbury varies wildly. (Image: Destination NSW)

There are several other optional charges too, which some companies levy, including:

Some companies also offer secure car parking for the duration of your houseboat stay for an extra fee (typically around $5/day).
While insurance is almost always included in hire packages, an excess waiver is sometimes offered as an optional extra, the price of which varies depending on the vessel size and type. Check with your provider.
Many operators do not provide linens (think sheets, pillows, pillowcases, doonas and towels), but these can be hired for a separate fee. Expect to pay around $35 per bed.

What to expect from a houseboat holiday

No experience or boat license is required as vessels do not exceed 10 knots. To get guests up to speed, many local operators will provide a full briefing onboard the vessel, providing a demonstration of how the boat’s controls work, and some show guests a short safety DVD. Some operators also offer to drive guests in and out of the marina, so that they don’t have to worry about docking or launching the boat. You’ll also find a detailed manual on board for reference. And bear in mind that the same road rules regarding drink driving apply to the waterways too! Houseboats are also prohibited from cruising at night due to maritime legislation.

Puttering past a house on Dangar Island. (Image: Alicia Taylor)

Although some of the high-end boats offer the luxury of a little more space, bear in mind that your quarters will likely still be somewhat cramped: it pays to pack light. There may also be restrictions on what electrical items you can use onboard too, as the voltage (often 12 volts) will prevent the use of items such as hairdryers, hair straighteners and cooking appliances.

Many houseboat operators can help out with catering or providing groceries upon request, as long as you give enough advance notice, but there are a small number of general stores that lie in the villages along the Hawkesbury, such as in Brooklyn, Akuna Bay and on Dangar Island. For the best range and price, however, it makes sense to stock up beforehand. There are several restaurants in the region that are well worth your time too, some of which are only accessible by boat.

Inside Berowra Waters Inn — Berowra Waters Inn serves up Modern Australian cuisine. (Image: Berowra Waters Inn)

For something a little stylish, dine in at Peats Bite, a Hawkesbury icon. Its seasonal, seven-course lunch (from $135/pp) is renowned. Modern Australian restaurant Berowra Waters Inn is another local standout, offering a six-course degustation from $195/pp. Cottage Point Inn is also a contender worthy of the title ‘best restaurant on the Hawkesbury’ and accessible via houseboat; it has both an a la carte and a tasting menu. Reservations are recommended at the region’s higher-end restaurants.

A meal plated at Cottage Point Inn — Take a night off from cooking onboard and treat yourself to a meal at Cottage Point Inn. (Image: Cottage Point Inn)

Best things to do on the Hawkesbury

The Hawkesbury River may be sleepy, but there’s plenty to check out. If you’re not content with idling away time watching the world go by, playing cards with friends, or cooking up a storm on the barbie then try one of the below activities out for size…

Golfing

There are three golf courses close to the Able Marina, and all three are accessible by water. They include the Wisemans Ferry Golf Club, the Del Rio Riverside Resort 9-hole Golf Course, and the Riverside Oaks PGA golf course and clubhouse.

Fishing

There’s plenty to catch on the Hawkesbury. Depending on the season you might find jewfish, mulloway, mullet, bream, flathead, flounder, snapper, or whiting at the end of your line. Remember that you need a current NSW fishing licence.

Picnicking

Look closely and you’ll find lots of hidden little inlets perfect for a picnic. Appletree Bay is one popular local spot, with a kiosk in summer, as well as toilets and public barbecues.

Walking

There are plenty of walks to take on in these parts, where rugged bushland thrives. Your houseboat provider may be able to offer a few helpful tips. For starters, there’s a nice walking track around Dangar Island that takes about 90 minutes to complete, and offers wonderful views across the water to Long Island, Brooklyn and Little Wobby Beach.

Scenic sunrise over the Hawkesbury River from Del Rio Resort — Putter over to Del Rio Resort for a day of golfing. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swimming

It’s perfectly safe to swim in the river, and many of the larger houseboats even have swimming ladders attached to the back deck, but it’s best to avoid dawn and dusk, and also to swim at the side of the river as the tides can be strong.

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle ). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw — Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle — Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB, the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe .

2. Destination dining

Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw — Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca , which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie , the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths — Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach . Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen , which is open from 6am.

Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse .

You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach , where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

couple eating at Flotilla newcastle — Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

5. Newcastle nightlife

Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw — Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne , Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s .

Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.

A first-timer’s guide to houseboating on the Hawkesbury