Plan Your Holiday

We’ve tried to make planning your houseboat holiday simple and clear. Since houseboat holidays are a bit different from regular accommodations or adventure planning, here’s a breakdown of what to do:

Prepare Yourself

This section walks you through the four essential steps to booking your houseboat holiday, from choosing the right boat to knowing what to expect on arrival.

What is a Houseboat Holiday?

Our houseboats are self-drive, allowing you to explore the stunning Murray River with just a driver’s license. Each boat is fully self-contained, featuring kitchens, spas, BBQs, and satellite internet. Some boats are pet-friendly, so your furry friends can join in the fun.

Explore up to 100km of the river, with local attractions including scenic parks, pubs, wineries, townships, and golf courses. You can also bring along small fishing or ski boats to enhance your
experience.

View Our Houseboat Range

Explore the full selection of our houseboats with detailed information, floor plans, galleries, and 3D walkthroughs to help you pick the perfect one for your holiday.

Why Choose Mildura Houseboats?

With 16 houseboats of varying sizes, we cater to all group types. We’re one of the largest houseboating businesses on the Murray River, with over 20 years of experience. As a family-run business, we’re deeply committed to the local community.

We offer secure parking for vehicles, caravans, and trailers, and the option to hire a tinnie. Our boats
are also eco-friendly, with waste management systems, solar panels, and batteries to reduce
generator use.

Small Boat Hire

Looking for an additional adventure? Check out our small boats available for hire that don’t require a boat licence.

Booking Our Houseboats

  • Check the Itineraries: plan a duration for your stay. The minimum hire is 3 nights.
  • Select Your Boat: Browse houseboats that suit your crew size. Each has a floor plan and 3D
    video to help you choose. If you need assistance, we’re happy to help select the perfect
    boat.
  • Book Now: Once you’ve chosen your boat, Book Now to secure your spot. A $800 deposit
    per 7 days is required for bookings made more than 2 months in advance. Full payment is
    due 2 months before boarding.
  • If a houseboat is not available during your desired dates please send us a email we might be
    able to help.

Itineraries and Places to Visit

Find suggested itineraries and local attractions to make the most of your houseboat holiday, from scenic parks to wineries and more.

What to Expect on the Day of Arrival

  • Boarding Time & Check-In Window is between 3:00–5:00 PM. If your houseboat is ready
    earlier, we’ll call you to let you know so you can board sooner. Please do not arrive before
    3:00 PM or before receiving a call confirming an earlier check-in time. We recommend
    arriving in Mildura early on the day, ready for check-in by 3:00 PM at the latest.
  • Groceries Delivery Option: Several local grocery stores offer online delivery to the houseboat
    on the day. If your delivery arrives before you, staff will place it onboard and, in the fridge,
    where applicable.
  • Once onboard, we’ll guide you through the paperwork and give you a tour of the boat. This includes a driving lesson covering the basics of navigation, parking, and safe operation. This takes about 30–60 minutes.
  • Security Bond: A credit card is required for the security bond, which ranges from $1000 to $1500 depending on the houseboat. The bond is refunded within 5 working days, minus fuel costs or damages.
  • Ice & Tinnie Rental: We offer block and crushed ice on-site, and you can rent a tinnie (if available).

Frequently Asked Questions

Got a question? Our FAQ section has answers to the most common questions about booking, the houseboats, and your stay.

Terms and conditions

All the details you need to know, from booking policies to security bonds and other important info.

Prepare Yourself

Plan your trip in advance, considering factors like dates, guest count, and desired amenities. Research different houseboat options to find the perfect fit for your group. Book early to secure your preferred dates and consider additional services like fishing gear rental or restaurant reservations. With careful planning, you can ensure a memorable and relaxing houseboat holiday.

Before & After Stays

Make the most of your time in Mildura by exploring the region’s diverse offerings. From cultural experiences and outdoor adventures to wine tasting and shopping, there’s something for everyone. Consider extending your stay with a few nights of land-based accommodation before or after your houseboat holiday.

While on the boat

Discover the beauty of the Murray River on your houseboat adventure. Cruise through serene waterways, moor at picturesque spots, and indulge in world-class fishing. Enjoy the tranquility of nature, explore historic sites, and savor delicious local cuisine. With a variety of mooring options and fishing hotspots, your houseboat holiday is sure to be unforgettable.

Itineraries

Need inspiration for your houseboat adventure? Explore our suggested itineraries and discover the best ways to spend your time on the Murray River. From leisurely cruises to thrilling fishing expeditions, there’s something for everyone. Let us help you plan your dream vacation.

The Mighty Murray River Awaits