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.

From serene natural beauty to vibrant nightlife, with plenty of arts and culture in between, the NSW Central Coast has been enjoying a serious glow up.

Just one hour from Sydney, the Central Coast has long been the perfect seaside getaway. And with its ECO Destination certification with a focus on sustainability, it’s a trip travellers can feel good about, too. Recently, new and exciting openings have turned the Central Coast into a place where incredible natural beauty is still on the table, but so is a vibrant and sophisticated arts, dining and nightlife scene.

Find out what’s new to discover on the Central Coast.

1. Gosford’s glow up

room at voco gosford — Book into voco and experience the best of Gosford.

Long-time Central Coast lovers will hardly recognise Gosford these days. While always boasting gorgeous water views, a range of revamps and new openings have turned it into a busy hub of arts and culture, with an increasingly diverse and vibrant nightlife.

Landmark lifestyle hotel voco Gosford is the perfect home base for a Central Coast getaway. At this IHG hotel overlooking sparkling Brisbane Water, guests can spend sunny days soaking in the rooftop pool (or just sipping a cocktail beside it). When it comes to meals, you can enjoy multiple venues serving up everything from modern Australian fare to fine-dining Japanese.

Venture out to lay eyes on the Central Coast’s first permanent Moving Image Gallery (MIG) . Opened this year inside the Gosford Regional Gallery , the immersive space is a showcase of screen-based and digital art. While at the gallery, wander around the Edogawa Commemorative Garden, a traditional Japanese strolling garden complete with teahouse, koi pond and an ornamental bridge.

Meanwhile, the revamped Gosford Regional Library has even more than books to discover. Now, it’s one of the best in the southern hemisphere – find exhibitions, historical archives and community initiatives for all ages at this perfect family-friendly escape.

2. Newcomers to the dining scene

table full of food at Amarilla restaurant terrigal — Treat yourself to sundowners and snacks at Amarilla.

The Central Coast has long been the perfect destination for gourmands, with everything from casual eats to fine dining elevating the local offerings. And three new destinations have been added to the map.

Amarilla at The Haven in Terrigal is the perfect seaside venue for sundowners, with blissed-out beats providing the soundtrack. Book in for golden hour and choose bites from a Spanish tapas menu made for sharing. Do as the locals do and wash it all down with sangria – the Sunday Sangria Sessions have become a local institution.

Also in Terrigal, Little Miss has brought a premium Mediterranean menu to the waterfront. Try the wagyu tartare with Greek caviar or butter-poached lobster and tomato bisque, paired with inventive cocktails and a handpicked selection of Lebanese wines.

Over in Ettalong, Bar Toto is perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks. This award-winning cocktail bar is known for its creative concoctions, along with craft beer, wine and antipasti platters to snack on. The interior sets the mood, with dim lighting and wooden furnishings.

3. New Central Coast experiences

winemaker at Firescreek Botanical Winery — Book an experience at Firescreek Botanical Winery.

It’s entirely possible (and recommended) to spend a Central Coast getaway relaxing on one of its many peaceful and pristine beaches. But for those who crave more, there’s a long list of options to keep you busy.

Pop into the iconic Australian Reptile Park to see the new Weigel Venom Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that’s home to over 200 of the country’s most venomous snakes.

Get out on the water with Sail Central Coast , which offers 20 years of expertise in yacht charters. Book the Sunset Sail & Dine yacht charter for a private afternoon cruising the waterways of Bouddi National Park and Brisbane Water, stopping at Anchor on Hardys for a two-course meal with a cocktail.

For something completely different, Firescreek Botanical Winery is now offering an Aboriginal Storytelling and Wine Tasting Experience. Learn about local cultures, stories and traditions from an Aboriginal Elder, then enjoy a botanical-inspired wine tasting led by a local winemaking expert.

4. Central Coast accommodation

view from a cottage at Noonaweena — Sleep in the hinterland at Noonaweena.

There’s simply too much to experience on the Central Coast to only stay for one day. Turn your trip into a relaxing getaway by the beach.

Allawah , a retreat on the banks of the Hawkesbury River, is accessible only by boat. This secluded two-bedroom cottage is the perfect place to unwind, allowing you to spend lazy days fishing, kayaking, paddling or unwinding with a book on your own private jetty.

In the Kulnura hinterland, Noonaweena features a range of accommodation styles, from a luxe glamping bell tent to cottages and a treetop suite. It’s a leader in green travel, with 10 years of certification from Eco Tourism Australia. Relax in the onsite wellness centre or get active on various courts and in the gym facilities.

To stay by the ocean at Toowoon Bay, book into Kim’s Beachside Resort . This adults-only property offers a luxury escape nestled within a sub-tropical rainforest. Along with 36 private timber bungalows, indulge in massages or reiki treatments at the dedicated spa, or stop by the cocktail bar and à la carte restaurant.

5. Shopping on the Central Coast

Umina’s Centred Ceramics central coast — Try your hand at Umina’s Centred Ceramics’ pottery courses.

For those after unique trinkets, handmade treasures and beautiful homewares, the Central Coast is a haven.

Markets on the Central Coast have a special flavour. Wander the Umina Beach Markets at twilight, where you’ll find small businesses from the local areas, and the Norah Head Ocean View Markets , where you can soak up good food, live music and artisan finds by the beach after sunset. ‘Tis the season for the Christmas twilight edition of the Avoca Beachside Markets, celebrating the season with pop-up bars, tasty treats and plenty of unique gift options from local artists and producers.

Galleria Ettalong has also added to the Central Coast’s recent makers and creators renaissance, wrapping cinemas, a dining precinct and over 40 boutique shops into one area.

Sign up for a pottery course at Umina’s Centred Ceramics , or peruse the shop for a range of one-of-a-kind pottery made on the premises for a special souvenir.

For more eclectic arts and homewares, pop into Blue Bird Collective Co . This marketplace supports over 35 small, local and handmade businesses, artists and creatives. Take the time to check out fashion, jewellery and homewares that won’t be found anywhere else.

Start planning your coastal getaway at lovecentralcoast.com .

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