On the verge of burnout? Treat yourself to a little weekend (or better yet, a week-long) getaway. Sure, you could rent a beach house or lake house or opt for a road trip in an RV. But why not try something a little more… unique? Please welcome houseboat rentals into the conversation. 

New to Houseboat Rentals? Don’t Know What to Expect? Here’s the Lowdown: 

Houseboat Rentals 101: Renting a houseboat is pretty similar to renting any land-based home. Most provide you with everything you need onboard to sleep comfortably and cook for yourself (just bring your own groceries). Think of it as a cross between a hotel and camping. 

The Scoop on Booking: Houseboat rentals are more popular than you may think, especially in the summer months and in popular vacation destinations like Florida. That means it's important to plan ahead and book early. Don't wait until the last minute! 

Who's the Captain? You are! Most houseboat rentals don't require a special license. If you have a valid driver's license, you're likely good to take the helm. Your rental provider will tell you the ins and outs of your home-away-from-home and, hopefully, give you some hands-on practice sessions.

• Before booking an Airbnb boat rental: Make sure the owner has the right commercial or rental insurance. Recreational policies usually don't cover rentals, so having the proper insurance is key for everyone's safety. Taking this precaution ensures a worry-free experience for both renters and owners, keeping everyone protected in case of any unexpected mishaps.

Sounds Great…But What’s the Catch?

Floating rentals sound like a dream come true, and for the most part, they are! But there are some caveats. 

Weather Dependent: Weather plays a big role when it comes to these vacations. Storms, strong winds, or rain can impact your itinerary, so be prepared to change your plans if needed (and always, always, always prioritize safety). 

» RELATED: A Guide to Boat Safety for an Unforgettable Summer

Learning Curve: Operating a houseboat might feel different than operating a regular boat, so don't be surprised if it takes some practice to master the ropes. With a little patience and a sense of adventure, you'll be cruising the waterways like a pro in no time. 

Limited Space & Privacy: Some houseboats are a bit snug, which may feel cramped for larger groups or extended stays. Make sure to review the houseboat's layout and dimensions on the listing page before booking. 

Motion Sickness: Let's not forget that some people may get queasy when the water gets rough or the boat starts moving. If you or any of your passengers are prone to seasickness, it's good to be prepared with some Dramamine.  

The List: Floating Airbnbs Worth Bookmarking

So, what are the best houseboat Airbnbs? No gatekeeping here. Let’s get into some of the ones that are worth a visit. 

Houseboat in Key West, Florida

Picture this: your very own floating paradise in Key West, Florida. With sweeping ocean views as far as the eye can see, it’s safe to say this isn't your average vacation spot. And guess what? It still has all the modern amenities you could want, from AC to Wi-Fi, and even a projector for movie nights on the water. Want to explore? Not an issue. Hop on the provided kayak or paddleboard to reach nearby sandbars and small islands for some off-the-grid fun. 

Rapid Fire:

• Where: Key West, Florida
• Bed & Bath: 1 bed, 1 bath
• Perks: Rainfall shower head, heated water, A/C, kitchenette, electricity, Wi-Fi, and a movie projector. 
• Bonus Points: Every reservation includes complimentary use of a crystal-clear, 2-person kayak, a floating water mat, snorkel gear, and hammocks. 

Houseboat in Lake Cowichan, Canada

Get ready to meet your new favorite spot: this houseboat on Lake Cowichan. It's not just a place to crash – it's your base camp for exploring Vancouver Island. New to houseboating? Not a problem. They'll give you the full rundown before you cast off.

Rapid Fire: 

• Where: Lake Cowichan, Canada
• Bed & Bath: 2 beds, 1 bath
• Amenities: Kitchen, fire pit, private balcony, free parking, and more. 
• Bonus Points: Enjoy paddleboards, board games, and shared beach access, but there's no Wi-Fi on board (it's all about unplugging). 

Cornet Bay Boat House

This Cornet Bay boat house is the ultimate hideaway in Oak Harbor, Washington. It’s newly renovated and sits in prime real estate (between two ends of Deception Pass State Park). Endless hiking and biking trails are practically on your doorstep, so get ready to explore until your legs give out.

Rapid Fire:

• Where: Oak Harbor, Washington
• Bed & Bath: 1 bed, 1 bath
• Amenities: Kitchen, stall shower, free parking, indoor fireplace, Wi-Fi, TV, and more. 
• Bonus Points: You've got access to your own private dock. Plus, complimentary kayaks and paddleboards are available upon request. You can also bring your own. 

Tugboat in Louisa, Virginia

Check out this tugboat (turned houseboat) in Louisa, Virginia. It floats on an 8-acre private lake, surrounded by 142 wooded acres (plus 5 miles of hiking/biking trails). You can go swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, or just relax by the fire pit on your own private beach. 

Rapid Fire: 

• Where: Louisa, Virginia
• Bed & Bath: 3 beds, 1 bath
• Amenities: Fully stocked kitchen, full bathroom, AC, heat, Wi-Fi, and more. 
• Bonus Points: The houseboat owners have some farm animals, so don’t be surprised if you run into a few goats during your stay. 

Floating Condo on Sausalito's Richardson Bay

This charming floating condo on Richardson Bay is the perfect little getaway. It’s completely private, and the studio is newly renovated (think heated bathroom floors). Plus, Tiburon, Sausalito, and San Francisco are all a short ferry ride or scenic bike path away. 

Rapid Fire:

• Where: Mill Valley, California
• Bed & Bath: 1 bed, 1 bath
• Amenities: Full kitchen, washer and dryer, AC, heat, internet, and more. 
• Bonus Points: Did we mention the deck? You can take in wide-open views of Tiburon, Sausalito, and San Francisco while you sip your morning coffee.