yacht the river airbnb

Boat holiday rentals in United Kingdom

Find and book unique boat rentals on Airbnb

Top-rated boat rentals in United Kingdom

Guests agree: these boat rentals are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

Boat in Merseyside

Lovely 2-Bedroom Barge Brunswick Dock Liverpool!

Beautiful, spacious 2-bedroom barge! The boat is located on the Brunswick dock with parking available at the Liverpool Yacht club. The house boat has two bedrooms, one bathroom and a fully equipped kitchen with beautiful views of the dock. There is an indoor fireplace as well as a TV and Wifi available! Guests have full access to the entire houseboat, no sharing with host or other guests. Upon arrival guests will receive a welcome basket and full tour of the barge! :) *Welcome baskets may vary!

Boat in West Sussex

Rhubarb n Custard quirky unique narrowboat retreat

The Riverbank is nestled in an RSPB nature reserve close to the South Downs National Park, and benefits from a wide range of bird and animal life. This unique community is home to around 55 houseboats of all shapes and sizes and is completely unique to the UK. Guests will have exclusive use of our traditional narrowboat, Rhubarb and Custard. This will be a totally unique experience, at one with nature and the perfect place to holiday with the family! You will be able to relax, swim, or cycle...

Boat in Greater London

The Floating Terrarium

The Floating Terrarium one of Airbnb’s OMG winning designs. A biophilic haven in the city: TFT is a luxury, eco-conscious, off-grid, one bed widebeam. A unique experience that will have you immersed in over 150 plants, conveniently situated on the canal in East London’s coolest area, Hackney. 10 min walk to local transport + tonnes of local shops & bars a stones throw away. Personalised location guides available on request! *Additional fee for pets *£100 charge for overflowing the toilet

Boat in Oxford

60ft narrowboat, sleeps 6, central Oxford

Beautiful 60ft traditional narrow boat on the river, 240v is only available when the engine is running. We have wifi and external cctv. It is clean, warm, safe and has a chemical boat loo. The beds are all very comfortable and consist of one main double & bunk and one sofa bed, all in separate rooms. The boat is mainly on the river and we have a wide plank for access, making the boat unsuitable for wheelchairs, elderly or infirm. The boat has been on Inspector Lewis. The boat is NOT a hotel.

Boat in Manchester

Floating Homestays - African themed boat

*For promos, best offers & to see other boat search floating homestays * Adorable pet-friendly hideaway. Quirky interior & attractive outside seating to enjoy the city whilst remaining sequestered from the outside world. Showpiece is a pink honesty bar with wine/beer/spirits /games. Gorgeous wood interiors create a prohibition feel to the drinking lair. Kitchen equipped for cooking&some breakfast provided(coffee/tea/cereal/milk/OJ). Shower/sink/toilet. Dbl bed & single couch. Heating & fire

Boat in Suffolk

Beautiful boat, Amazing location

One of our two boats we have to offer this is a lovely yacht with amazing views, Marina location sleeps 4, perfect place for those get togethers, or just to chill. Amazingly warm and cosy, with heating, Everything you need for a few days away, with a coffee machine, TV, fireplace, 2 x bathrooms,hot shower, 1 x double, 2 x single, washing machine, fridge and freezer, Free on site parking. What more could you want. cant find adate you require please see our other boat https://air.tl/tOyHUoiv

Boat in Crowlas, Penzance

The Lifeboat

This unique glamping unit has been crafted here at Rosevidney Farm over the past 18months. She is a former oil industry escape craft and when she came her in 2019 was still fully functioning with engine, seatbelts, emergency supplies etc. Now she sits in our Glamping meadow alongside our Safari Tents and Russian Truck. The lifeboat will sleep four in comfort with a King-size Bed and twin singles. There is an ensuite shower and loo, central heating as well as a handcrafted wood burning stove

Boat in Southampton

Superyacht on 5* Ocean Village Marina, Southampton

A wonderful opportunity to stay onboard a beautiful spacious motor yacht moored on the prestigious Ocean Village marina, Southampton. Ideal for couples, families or friends looking for an exciting or romantic getaway. Up to 7 guests. 3 bedrooms with 3 bathrooms. Bespoke packages also available including afternoon teas, champagne reception, birthdays and decorations, spa access (walking distance). Please enquire for more details. Our base price is based upon 2 guests, extra guests are £25pp

Boat in Wraysbury

Thames Relaxation Luxury 42ft Heated Yacht Windsor

Your EXCLUSIVE LUXURY EXPERIENCE on our spacious 42ft x15ft YACHT Oyster Fun’d Moored on the MainstreamThames on our PRIVATE Island *HEATING * 2 double bedrooms White cotton bedding WHITE COMPANY products 2 showers 2 electric toilets Galley fridge microwave induction hob 2 smart TVs Netflix Prime WIFI Seating area below and on deck far reaching views under the shadows of historical Runnymede Parking 1 for car. Designated smoking area . Cruises available during your stay .

Boat in Hampshire

31 foot sports boat great for special occasions

Stay on a 10 metre sports cruiser cozy /romantic perfect for birthdays and anniversary’s very comfortable bow bed with heating full use of the Marina facilities is included free parking in the Marina cozy nice lighting at night 2 fridges and a 40” tv with Netflix on upper deck Welcome pack included To include water , milk , beers and wine , with a few nibbles added in Also by request at an extra charge the owner can do an afternoon or evening cruise prices to suit your requirements

Boat in West Yorkshire

Cosy narrowboat stay in the ♥ of Hebden Bridge

Newly renovated narrowboat moored in a sunny spot, just steps from the centre of Hebden Bridge. Comfortably sleeps 2 adults on either a new queen-sized (4ft) double, or sofa bed with soft cotton bed linen. Bijoux shower room with fluffy towels, eco-friendly compost loo, and Faith in Nature toiletries. All you need for a few days away; breakfast bar, gas cooker with oven, and mini fridge. Paid parking in the centre of town, or a short walk through the park from the train station.

Boat in Cuan Ferry

The Mary Heather, Lifeboat, Cuan Sound

The Mary Heather offers a unique opportunity to stay in an 35 year old Rotherclass life boat on the shores of Cuan Sound. Situated on Argyll’s rugged coastline, this is the ideal location for kayakers, walkers and those wishing to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The Mary Heather is nestled into the bay along with the Alexandra lifeboat and our Sea cave, all part of our small campground facilities here at Cuan Ferry.

Holiday rentals for every style

Get the amount of space that is right for you

Popular amenities for boat rentals in United Kingdom

Family-friendly boat rentals.

Boat in Bath

Relax on board. STATIC

Private room in Inverness

Alba Cabin on Luxury Trawler Yacht, Inverness

Boat in Bath and North East Somerset

Cosy cruiser inc bicycles & other boats

Private room in Greater London

Historic ship captain's cabin, Tower Bridge

Boat in Skipton

NarrowBoat 'Ellis Belle' Static or Cruising Breaks

Boat in Saint Osyth

Sailing Barge Edme

Boat in Surrey

Boat in Poole

Motor Yacht Calypso

Boat in Torbay

Perfect Couples Retreat Boat

Boat in Portsmouth

Boat Gunwharf Quays Portsmouth

Boat in Torquay

Boat Accommodation, Torquay Marina, Devon

Boat in Port Bannatyne

Cabin Cruiser on the beautiful Island of Bute

Boat in Dorset

Sunseeker 60 ft Luxury Yacht, Weymouth

Sea Wolf 4 Berth 2 Cabin Motor Yacht in Lymington

Boat in Causeway Coast and Glens

Yacht with two double cabins

Boat in Mount Batten

52ft Motor Yacht, Plymouth Yacht Haven Marina

Rhapsody In Blue ~ Home on the Water

Boat in Cambridge

Beautiful Narrowboat Glyndwr

"Mad Moment" 44 foot 2 Bed En Suite Boat

Whistlejacket - Narrowboat : 1 - 5 guests

Boat in Gweek

Dutch barge captain's accommodation.

Historic dutch barge, idyllic berth in C London.

Boat in Barton-under-Needwood

Luxury Narrow Boat Staycation

Pretty London narrowboat moored in private garden

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Airbnb for Boats: How to Turn Your Boat into a Profitable Boat Rental

Airbnb is a well-known marketplace connecting hosts who want to earn extra income by renting their properties short-term and travelers looking for memorable holiday experiences. Staying in an Airbnb offers travelers a unique alternative to traditional hotel stays.

Since Airbnb guests are interested in different types of places to stay during their trips, the platform welcomes many different kinds of listings, including rooms, vacation homes, mansions, tiny houses , cabins, castles, RVs , and more. Moreover, it’s even possible to rent out boats in the same way as apartment and condo rentals.

Airbnb boat listings are very popular among adventurous travelers seeking unique accommodations. So, if you own a boat and are looking for ways to make some extra money, you may consider using it as an Airbnb rental.

Can You List Any Boat on Airbnb?

The short answer is yes. Airbnb boat rentals range from amazing sailboats and unique yachts to houseboats and catamarans. But there are certain restrictions about what can be listed as a place to stay.

Airbnb hosts can list boats and other vessels that serve only as accommodation and are semi-permanently attached to a set location. Still, there are also Airbnb listings that offer boats and yachts that can be rented as a private charter.

Running an Airbnb boat rental can be a profitable side hustle if you provide a memorable experience for guests looking for unique stays. It can also allow you to meet interesting people from around the world.

However, Airbnb hosting involves many responsibilities, and managing your boat rental can be time-consuming. An effective solution can be automating your routine operations using vacation rental software like Hospitable.

Your entire STR business in one convenient platform

Airbnb for boats: things to consider before you get started.

Before you decide to embark on the journey of becoming a boat host and creating a listing on Airbnb , there are several factors to consider.

Short-term rental laws vary from state to state and even city to city, so you need to research your area’s local laws and regulations to make sure using your boat as an Airbnb is legal. Contact your local government to determine whether you need to obtain specific licenses and permits to comply with all the necessary regulations.

And keep in mind that you’ll have to report the income you get from renting out your boat or yacht on Airbnb in your taxes . It’s also essential to have the right insurance coverage to protect you and your guests in case of any accidents and damages.

Prepare Your Boat for Airbnb

Make your boat guest-ready and do your best to create an inviting atmosphere where travelers will feel comfortable and welcome. Ensure your boat is clean, safe, and has all the amenities necessary for a comfortable stay. Guests will expect basic amenities like electricity, running water, cooking utensils, linens, and a bathroom or a shower. Other amenities like a dining table or WiFi are desirable.

You must also ensure that your boat is well-maintained and has all the necessary safety equipment . Ensure you have enough life jackets for all guests and equip your boat with smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and a well-stocked first kit.

Create a Listing for Your Airbnb Boat Rental

Once you have prepared your boat for welcoming guests, it’s time to create a listing. It’s your opportunity to showcase your unique property and attract potential guests. You should provide a detailed description of what your boat has to offer and highlight all the amenities.

Add high-quality pictures of your boat to showcase its unique features. Include clear house rules, check-in and check-out instructions, and safety guidelines, and specify your cancellation policy . 

Set competitive prices for your Airbnb boat rental. Research other listings that offer boat rentals in your area to get an idea of the right nightly rate. When setting your prices, you should consider such factors as the size of your boat, amenities you provide, location, and the time of year.

Manage Your Boat Rental

Once your boat is listed on Airbnb, you can start accepting bookings. Respond to all booking requests as fast as possible and stay in touch with your guests using messages to address any concerns they may have or answer any questions.

Moreover, you must proactively communicate with guests during all the customer journey stages to make them feel cared for. Then, they are more likely to leave you 5-star reviews.

Being available to your guests 24/7 isn’t easy, but you can automate all conversations with your guests using vacation rental software like Hospitable, saving you hours. With Hospitable, you can set rules and create a personalized message flow for each guest. This way, you can ensure they always get the necessary information at the right time.

Have conversations with your guests even when you sleep

You’ll also need to take care of regular cleaning and maintenance to provide your guests with a clean and comfortable living space during each turnover. The easiest way to ensure your boat rental is spotless is to delegate this job to professional cleaners. Then, you’ll need to give them a detailed cleaning checklist that they should follow to ensure that your rental is perfect for the next guest.

Boat Rentals That Guests Can Book on Airbnb

Airbnb’s Boats Category offers guests an array of unique stays. Let’s look at some of the listings, so you can better understand what kind of experience guests can have if they dream of an overnight stay on the water. 

Barge at Titanic – Harland Berth, Belfast, Northern Ireland

This renovated barge is located in the heart of the Belfast Marina, right next to the world-famous Titanic Centre, and is only a 10-minute walk away from The Cathedral Quarter with great restaurants and bars.

The houseboat was designed to combine the joy of being close to the water with on-shore comfort and “chic” appeal. It has two bedrooms, a modern kitchenette, and a complete “on-shore” style bathroom and can comfortably accommodate up to four people. 

The River Den, Quebec, Canada

This fully insulated houseboat is docked outside the village of Wakefield on the Gatineau River and can accommodate two guests. It’s a rustic, artisanal, floating tiny house with no hot water, shower, or electricity. The boat has a cozy, airtight woodstove, cooking facilities, and a second-story sleeping loft with a queen-sized bed.

Harbor Yacht in Boston, Massachusetts, USA

This posh yacht is docked near historic locations and the North End, Boston’s oldest neighborhood. The yacht has two staterooms, each with its bath, a living area, and a small kitchen. Guests can enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city by day and return to the Sea Pearl to spend a relaxing evening on the water.

Charming Sailboat in Racine, Wisconsin, USA

The sailboat “Clementine” is set up as a full-time Airbnb in a slip at Reefpoint Marina, which has amenities like a heated pool with two hot tubs, a ship store, laundry and shower facilities, and a restaurant. The boat has beds for three guests, but the stay is ideal for couples looking for a romantic getaway. It’s a perfect place to enjoy beautiful sunrises and sunsets.

Final Thought

Renting out your boat on Airbnb can be an exciting way to earn extra income while providing adventurous travelers unique and memorable experiences. You can turn your boat into a profitable venture in the Airbnb market with proper preparation, creating an appealing listing, and setting the right nightly rates.

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This Boat Rental Company Is the Perfect Way to Step Up Your Staycation

Boatsetter, the airbnb of boats, makes it easy to rent anything from a fishing boat to a fully crewed yacht..

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You can rent this 45-foot yacht off the coast of Florida for a half day or full day.

Courtesy of Boatsetter

Welcome to AFAR Approved: a deep dive into the travel items that we’re totally obsessed with, never leave behind, and can’t stop telling our friends about.

Let’s face it: This is not the summer we’d hoped to have. Countless canceled trips, parties, events . . . we can’t go anywhere! We can’t do anything! What a downer! But it’s time to take what’s left of summer into our own hands.

I live on Long Island, about an hour from New York City, and I’m never more than 20 minutes from the shore. My typical summer followed a simple equation: towels, sunscreen, beach—every chance I could get. Though local beaches have been open (with restrictions) since Memorial Day, there are still complications brought on by COVID-19. Did you know Long Island beaches reach capacity (which has been cut in half) by roughly 9 a.m. every weekend day? And once you’re there, social distancing becomes a challenge. What do you do when someone’s football lands on your beach blanket ? Can you really make your kids keep a mask on? I’ve since discovered that the best way to spend a socially distant day on the water is to actually spend it on the water—you’ve got to get on a boat.

Luckily, there’s a website for that. With Boatsetter , an eight-year-old peer-to-peer boat rental platform based in South Florida, you can book a private boat—everything from fishing boats to sailboats to fully crewed yachts—for the day (or a half day, or even a full week). Think of it like Airbnb, but for boats. My Boatsetter experience was a two-hour sunset cruise, which left from Sag Harbor and meandered around the Peconic Bay (between Long Island’s forks) . Our ride? A 43-foot Azimut Atlantis—someone’s brand-new yacht—that was large enough to accommodate me and nine guests. My brother and his girlfriend came, as did my parents, and even my grandparents—it was their biggest day out since the pandemic started in March.

This large, fancy boat came with a fancy crew: Captain Kent was behind the wheel along with his first mate, Annika. Of course, my first thought was the same as yours— you’re not supposed to be socializing with Captain Kent! It’s coronavirus! Well, on a 43-foot boat there’s plenty of space for social distancing. Kent made it clear that when we were up near the helm, or walking through the cabin, we had to keep our masks on. We could remove our masks outdoors around the people we came with, as long as we were more than six feet from him and his crew. They kept their masks on the whole time, even as Kent entertained a running list of boat questions from my grandfather (an ex-cruise ship navigator).

We were encouraged to bring food and drinks onboard, with water and ice provided, which meant we brought a typical over-the-top antipasto platter—breads, meats, cheeses, olives, the whole thing—as well as our own wine and cocktails. Yes, we shared with Captain Kent (not the alcohol, of course). After cruising around for a little while, we anchored and were able to jump off the boat for a swim before heading slowly back to the marina.

After the boat ride I felt refreshed and, dare I say it, normal for the first time this summer. It was especially nice to be able to safely bring my grandparents; I know they have been suffering from cabin fever during the pandemic.

Boatsetter is available in 600+ locations worldwide with more than 6,000 vessels to choose from. Prices range from $200–$10,000. Our yacht was a $2,000 excursion—but the experience felt invaluable.

Book Now: Boatsetter.com

>> Next: Why North Fork, Long Island Is the Coastal Escape You Need

14 docked boats you can book on Airbnb including the original 'Caddyshack' yacht

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• You don't necessarily need sailing skills to spend a night on the water.
• Houseboats across the US may be rented on Airbnb and make for a truly unique stay.
• We found Airbnb boats across the country ranging from $114 to $436 per night.

There's nothing quite like an escape on the water — and we're not talking about a lakeside cabin .

Rather, sleeping on the water, in the form of an Airbnb houseboat rental, can be a rejuvenating retreat. They make for a socially distanced escape too, since they function as your own private, floating residence in the middle of a body of water. 

Spending a night on a yacht or sailboat is also more unique than booking a traditional hotel or vacation rental, and you can find all kinds of boats on Airbnb across the US. From the lakes of Wisconsin to California's bays, climb aboard parked vessels of all sorts, with no sailing skills required.

Browse all of the best boats on Airbnb below, or jump to a specific section:

• The best Airbnb boat rentals
• FAQs: Houseboat rentals
• More great unique Airbnbs

These are some of the best boat Airbnbs in the US, sorted by price from low to high.

Fully equipped 52' houseboat in kemah, texas.

Book this Texas boat on Airbnb

Stay on a 52-foot remodeled houseboat that's docked in a peaceful marina. It's located in a natural bird sanctuary so you can hear the calls of the birds from the boat's three main decks.

The interiors are relaxing and feature a marble shower, two flat screen TVs, and a spot for evening cocktails on a deck with a patio table, chairs, and shade awnings. 

There's a private man-made "island" shared between your rental and seven others owned by the same Superhost that acts as a barbecue and recreation spot. Staying here includes a gas barbecue and shrimp boiler, a pergola with a ceiling fan to hang out in, and canoes and kayaks you can take out for a paddle.

Charming sailboat in Racine, Wisconsin

Book this Wisconsin boat on Airbnb

Located on expansive Lake Michigan, this Airbnb boat rental has tight quarters (you'll be sleeping across from the kitchen sink), but the space still feels bright and airy. 

There's a cute blue Smeg fridge, a cozy dining nook, and a deck with plenty of seating and a handy charcuterie board set-up for sundowner cocktails.

Relax onboard playing cards or head onshore to the marina for the hot tubs, heated pool, or restaurant, which are all included as part of your reservation.

There aren't showers, but there is a toilet, and showers at the marina are easily accessible and clean. While the boat does sleep three, the stay is most ideal for couples.  

Desert houseboat with pool in Joshua Tree, California

Book this Joshua Tree boat on Airbnb

Moored in the Joshua Tree Land Yacht Club and located on dry land in the desert expanse of Joshua Tree, California, this boat is exceedingly unique.

You'll sleep on a colorful Queen bed in the bow of the boat with blackout blinds to fend off the bright light of the desert. There are two chairs on the deck for enjoying a morning cup of coffee, and right outside is a stargazing deck for spotting constellations and meteor showers. Best of all, there's a stock tank pool for cooling off.

Though the boat is all yours for the duration of your desert voyage, an outdoor "surfboard shower," nautical outhouse, a fire pit, a kitchenette, and a grill are shared amenities with artists who live on-site.

Modern and elegant houseboat in Stuart, Florida

Book this Florida boat on Airbnb

This houseboat could easily double for a cheerful, nautically-themed apartment given the spacious layout and maritime touches, such as a turquoise sofa and twin armchairs are adorned with fish-print pillows.

The subway-tiled kitchen offers much more room than you might expect and the sunny bathroom has a shower. The bedroom includes a Full-sized bed and sliding glass doors that lead to a deck with lounge chairs. 

You'll be docked within a pleasant marina that's a five-minute walk from downtown boutiques, restaurants, and coffee shops. The host also provides bikes if you want to explore excellent beaches just six miles away. 

Unique concrete houseboat in Sanford, Florida

Concrete, but make it float. It might sound surprising, but this perfectly seaworthy boat was made from concrete in Sweden in 1973 and did two full laps around the globe before becoming the cool floating getaway it is now.

Decorated in slate gray, charcoal, sand, and turquoise hues, the space offers a calming, modern take on small interiors. There are cozy seating nooks, a narrow but long kitchen, a separate bedroom with a Queen-sized bed, and a sleek tiled shower in the compact bathroom. 

The surrounding marina offers additional showers, restrooms, laundry, a diner, and a restaurant and bar with a pool. Downtown Sanford is also close by.

Motor yacht in New Bern, North Carolina

Book this North Carolina boat on Airbnb

This motor yacht offers all the comforts of an ordinary home with cushioned furniture, television, plush carpeted floors, and more. Even better, you'll wake up to beautiful views of the Neuse and Trent Rivers from the roomy cabin that includes nautical and bright blue decor.

Climb up to the sundeck with lounge chairs and a daybed for viewing spectacular sunsets. 

Although two guests are allowed, there is a capacity for four guests with the use of a sofa bed at an additional charge of $50 per person.

The yacht is parked in a convenient location adjacent to the historic downtown area filled with restaurants, shops, and bars.

Harbor yacht in Boston, Massachusetts

Book this Boston boat on Airbnb

Boston is known for its classic brownstones that date back to the founding of the city, and this posh yacht is docked near it all. The historic Bunker Hill monument, the USS Constitution Museum, and Boston's oldest neighborhood, the North End, are all within walking distance.  

Pretty water views and cool water breezes are found throughout the boat, and glossy teak finishes and white leather complement red and blue accents for a strong nautical theme.

There are two staterooms, each with its own baths, and a small kitchen and a living area. The compact kitchen doesn't permit the use of the cooktop, but there is a coffeemaker, toaster, microwave, and convection oven. 

From November to April 1st, the boat is wrapped in shrink wrap to block snow and keep the interior warm, and while it might not look as photogenic, you can still plan an offseason stay.

Marina resort boat in Key West, Florida

Book this Key West boat on Airbnb  

If you're heading to gorgeous Key West, this boat rental is a great way to experience the water and wildlife up close. Lucky guests may even spot manatees and dolphins from the deck.

The interior of the boat features teak furnishings, polished brass accents, and nautical blue hues. Two beds include a Queen-sized V-berth bed in the main stateroom and a half-berth bed off the main cabin.

Operated by an Airbnb Superhost, this hand-built sailboat is docked within the Perry Hotel's resort marina. As such, boat guests have access to the amenities of the high-end resort, too, including a pool, fitness center, and a free shuttle that takes guests from the marina to downtown Key West. 

While there's a toilet and sink on board, showers are at the marina. Similarly, there's an in-counter fridge and Keurig, but no microwave or stove.

Modern Houseboat on a pond in Bremen, Maine

Book this Maine boat on Airbnb

This gorgeous houseboat floating on a pond evokes the simple feel of a tiny home. The wooden panels and light-filled space provide an airy feel and there is both a double bed and a single bed in the main cabin. All cooking and essentials such as linens, soap, fresh drinking water, and life jackets are included as well.  

While the inside is inviting, save time to sunbathe on the outdoor and upper sun decks for great views and prime lounging. Although the boat is stationed on the water, a canoe is included for the guests to travel onshore. 

Private boat charters may also be arranged with the host. Keep in mind that guests are not allowed to drive or operate the boat themselves and the boat will remain parked for the duration of the stay.

Vintage boat in Gig Harbor, Washington

Book this Washington boat on Airbnb

If you're looking for a vintage stay, this restored historic Airbnb is less than an hour from Seattle and infused with character and charm.

The kitchen is adorned with brass lanterns, while a comfortable dining nook has a seafoam green bench and lace trim. There are also two bathrooms on board, a rarity for boats, including one with brass portholes and one tucked away under a folding ceiling panel.

Bedrooms are small but comfortable, with white linens and portholes to keep the vibe breezy and light. The host also includes two kayaks for guests to use as well as a barbecue on the dock.

Houseboat hotel in Douglas, Michigan

Book this Michigan boat on Airbnb

This 43-foot houseboat, or "floating hotel," as the host describes her, has everything guests need for a relaxing weekend escape.

A good size bedroom offers a Queen-size bed so you won't have to sleep in any tight spaces, and the interior is sleek and modern with updated black cabinetry, a fully stocked kitchen, and a pullout sofa.

Outside, guests have full access to marina and wharf facilities, which include grills, showers, a pool, additional bathrooms, a gazebo, and laundry.

The original 'Caddyshack' yacht in Stevensville, Maryland

Book this Caddyshack yacht on Airbnb

Cinephiles will appreciate the chance to stay on the actual yacht from the 1980 Bill Murray comedy "Caddyshack."

The well-maintained boat is outfitted to host a dedicated crew of fans, thanks to three bedrooms and three full bathrooms spread across the boat's 60-foot length.

Bench seating wraps around the deck and the kitchen is large enough for entertaining a crowd. Of course, there are also nods to its cinematic history. You'll be able to hear the iconic horn Rodney Dangerfield played in the movie, and there are autographed photos of Dangerfield and stills from the film.  

While the boat is rented with the understanding it'll stay put in its berth, guests may talk to the Superhost about chartering a cruise on the Chesapeake Bay. Fishing trips can be booked in the marina as well. 

Spacious 84' yacht in South Pasadena, Florida

Book this Florida yacht on Airbnb

If you're looking for a boat to hold a large family, this four-bedroom yacht makes for a spacious, elegant getaway offshore.

The interior is bright and airy, with a white-paneled ceiling, sprawling lounge spaces, and a massive kitchen with up-to-date finishes. 

The staterooms and living areas are mostly white with splashes of turquoise, gold, and orange, and objets d'art provide colorful pops. Bathrooms are also large and have plenty of countertop and storage space.

Outside, there's more room to spread out along the perimeter benches, at patio tables, or from the seating area at the back of the ship. 

While the boat stays moored, you can also book private charters with the host or use the complimentary kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and fishing poles.

Restored vintage yacht in Charleston, South Carolina

Book this Charleston boat on Airbnb

This Charleston stay takes place on a Hatteras motor yacht restored with a big helping of Southern charm. The marina location is peaceful and also ideal for exploring downtown Charleston.

The boat features all-teak interiors and white sofas, as well as simple but inviting bedrooms that can easily sleep a family. The main bedroom has a Full bed and an ensuite bathroom, and the second bedroom has two single beds that are just right for kids.

What should I consider when staying on a boat?

While boats have a lot of charm, not all offer a lot of space, and sometimes bedrooms (whether staterooms or berths) can even be claustrophobic with very limited square footage. Be sure to ask the host questions about the size of the rooms if you have concerns.

Not all boats have super-small living quarters, though. Houseboats, for example, will tend to offer more room to move around than sailboats since they're meant for day-to-day living. Yachts for larger groups can also offer more space. 

Be aware that not all boats have full kitchens or showers so be sure to read up on the amenities and what's onboard versus nearby.

How do I find an Airbnb that's a boat? 

Type in your initial search criteria on the site's landing page, including the number of guests, destination, and dates (or as much of that as you know).

Then, click "more filters," and scroll down to "unique stays." You'll find a box to check that says "boats," and that will bring up the only boats to your results pages.

What is the Airbnb Enhanced Clean program?

The Airbnb Enhanced Clean is a program for hosts that involves learning and getting certified in strict cleaning protocols. These cover everything from wearing personal protective equipment and what cleaning supplies to use to how to clean between guests. All hosts are now required to follow a stringent cleaning plan outlined by Airbnb as part of the program. 

Is it safe to stay in an Airbnb?

The CDC has declared US travel safe for fully vaccinated individuals.

Vacation rentals are also considered safer than hotels by experts, especially completely contained stays like the boats we've outlined. However, it's wise to continue to monitor guidance from the CDC and WHO, and to check state and local guidelines.

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Axel Springer, Insider Inc.'s parent company, is an investor in Airbnb.

• Main content

• Grand Rapids/Muskegon
• Saginaw/Bay City
• All Michigan

Want your AirBnB to float? We found 11 boats you can rent overnight in Michigan

• Published: Aug. 02, 2019, 7:30 a.m.
• Emily Bingham | [email protected]

Image courtesy of AirBnB.com

By Emily Bingham | [email protected]

For those times when you want to book a home rental on the water, but want to literally stay on the water , we present you with a novel idea: Book yourself an AirBnB that's actually a boat. With Michigan being smack in the middle of the Great Lakes, there's quite a few places around the state where you can rent one of these floating AirBnBs -- from a cozy-cabin'ed sailboat to spacious cruising yachts.

Don't worry if you don't know how to operate a boat, either; each of these is docked, and they aren't meant to leave the marina during your stay. (Though for some of these listings, chartered trips with the host are an option, too.)

Read on for a selection of Michigan's floating AirBnBs, and find a link at the end to where you can see more.

Courtesy AirBnB.com

Location: Douglas, Mich.

Sleeps: 3 guests

Price: Average $200/night

Details: A "rustic charmer" of a houseboat that sits in a marina just a 15-minute walk from Saugatuck and a five-minute walk to Douglas.

Full listing here

Location: Elberta, Mich.

Sleeps: 5 guests

Price: $100/night

Details: A 33' Carver motor yacht in the laid-back Betsie Bay marina, just two miles from Frankfort. Onsite kayak rentals allow guests to paddle from the Betsie River right back to the boat.

Location: Tecumseh

Price: Average $114/night

Details: This 27-foot sailboat is docked on East Pike Creek, up stream from Lake St. Clair. "We have a free-spirited, chill atmosphere here," the listing states. Stays include two rentals (stand-up paddleboards, kayaks or a canoe), smoothies, bikes for exploring, and a private bonfire area.

Related: 25 adorable tiny houses to rent in Michigan

Location: Frankfort, Mich.

Sleeps: 3 (two adults and one to two small children)

Price: Average $150/night

Details: Charming, classic wood sailboat that's walking distance to Frankfort: Home to Stormcloud Brewing Co., the Oliver Art Center, the historic Garden Theater, and other amenities. Charter boating arrangements can be made with the hosts.

Location: Alpena

Sleeps: Six guests

Price: Average $125/night

Details: This newer listing is for a 32-foot Trojan yacht in downtown Alpena's Thunder Bay Shores Marina. Perhaps the most intriguing detail in the listing: The host also offers diving excursions and family shipwreck snorkeling adventures.

Related: 15 rentable Michigan river cabins for a relaxing escape

Location: East Tawas, Mich.

Sleeps: Four guests

Price: Average $170/night

Details: This 36-foot cabin cruiser, named Marcella after the host's grandmother, is docked just steps from downtown East Tawas. Guests are encouraged to inquire about chartered excursions, dinner cruises, and even sunsets on the bay.

Location: Elberta

Sleeps: Three guests

Price: Average $175/night

Details: A 38-foot motor yacht docked in pretty Betsie Bay, with kayak rentals and bikes available for cruising. Biking trails, beaches, the popular lighthouse/pier, and downtown Frankfort are all nearby.

Related: These 7 unique Michigan rentals are just right for your next group vacation

Price: Average $215/night

Details: The living quarters on many boats can feel a bit, shall we say, cozy -- but not so on this spacious 44-foot Sea Ray, "a true live aboard boat," according to the listing. Expect stunning sunrises and close access to all the amenities of the Frankfort/Elberta area.

Details: Sleep aboard this classic 38-foot Chris-Craft, less than a mile from Lake Michigan beaches. The listing states this boat is perfect for two couples, a family, or even honeymooners.

Sleeps: 4 guests

Details: Settle in on this 28-foot Carver motor yacht; there's games and grills to enjoy in the marina, plus rentals available for bikes and kayaks. This boat doesn't leave the marina, but there's plenty worth exploring nearby.

Price: Average $140/night

Details: Another overnight boat in Elberta, tucked away in Betsie Bay. This 33-foot cruiser gets excellent reviews for great hospitality and having everything necessary for a memorable stay.

Want more boats?

This is just a selection of AirBnB boats in Michigan -- there's even more if you expand the search to include other Great Lakes states, and even Canada. (Pro tip: Use the "More filters" option when searching AirBnb to find cool, unusual categories: Like boats, sure, but also castles, caves, barns, and lighthouses.) Click here for more.

Related: 29 cozy Michigan cabins to rent for a winter getaway

Related: See the 11 most popular AirBnB listings in Michigan

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