Houseboat Holidays

Houseboat Holidays is based in Gananoque, Ontario, the gateway to the picturesque 1000 Islands. A family-run business for over forty years, Houseboat Holidays offers a great experience for family and friends. Free dockage at one of the many Canadian National Parks Islands is included.

If you have not experienced the 1000 Islands then it is a must and better yet on a houseboat. You will be able to enjoy the peacefulness of the many islands and meet new people. There is lots to do and see in area such as Boldt Castle, fishing and of course swimming. The many islands that you are able to dock at provide nice hiking to explore and pick berries.

Sailing by Boldt Castle - All photographs courtesy Houseboat Holidays

Houseboat Holidays is known for their exceptional friendly service and flexibility to meet your specific needs. They have an excellent, informative website to answer all your questions.

Have you wondered what it is like to dock a houseboat? It is simple with just a few instructions. Check out the following link on how to dock a houseboat produced by Houseboat Holidays.

How to Dock a Houseboat

Explore the 1000 Islands soon!

Houseboat Holidays offers a large number of boats available in three models to choose from. Each houseboat includes:

• Stove
• Oven
• Refrigerator
• Utensils
• Dishes & glassware
• Pots & pans
• Coffee pot
• Bathroom with toilet, shower and sink
• Linens (bedding)
• Dining area
• BBQ
• Deck chairs
• Safety equipment

• Weekend
• Long Weekend
• Midweek

Day Charters Houseboat Holidays also offer day charters in the 1000 Islands on a private chartered and catered boat.

Previous experience is not required. You will be provided instruction on operating the houseboat, safety requirements, how to read maps, buoys and channel markets. For the first few minutes someone may join you out of the harbor to ensure you are comfortable with the houseboat. The designated captain must be 21 years of age or older and hold a valid driver’s license.

You do not require a boating license (Pleasure Craft Operator Card) to rent a houseboat. Prior to departure you will be provided a safety checklist for review. Be sure to ask any questions if you are not sure. Once completed you will be issued a temporary license that is good for your trip. You will need to keep this document readily available if request by officials.

If you wish to obtain your Pleasure Craft Operator Card you can do so on line. For more details:

Pleasure Craft Licence

As with many houseboats there are not electrical outlets available for small appliances. If you need to charge any devices a cigarette lighter device is available. You will need to bring your own inverters.

For a complete list of recommended items to bring check out the checklist.

What to Bring

Linens are provided by Houseboat Holidays at no additional cost. You will need to bring your own towels.

Pets are welcome onboard. Houseboat Holidays reserves the right to charge an additional $50 for additional cleaning if required.

There are a number of additional costs that you should budget for during your vacation and will depend on the duration of your trip and the distance traveled. Each operator has different policies and should be discussed directly with them. Some costs will or may include:

• Fuel
• Oil
• Propane
• Pumpout
• Insurance

Since you may be traveling into U.S. waters a passport will be required. For complete details on the requirements consult the following government websites:

Canada Border Services Agency

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

• Kayaks available for rent

• Swimming
• Fishing
• Kayaking
• Hiking
• Golfing
• Snorkel & diving