Houseboats

Unleash your inner captain and experience the mighty Murray at your own pace. Gather your family or friends and set off on a luxurious houseboat adventure.

Explore charming riverside towns, discover hidden national park gems, and even tee off at riverside golf courses – all on your own schedule. From intimate houseboats for 4-6 people, to spacious vessels accommodating up to 12, the Murray region has the perfect floating home for you!

Enjoy modern kitchens, dining areas, lounges, and many even boast top decks and spas for ultimate relaxation. Fire up the barbie, swim at secluded river beaches, sample local wines and moor beside majestic river red gums for a peaceful night. A round of golf? Exploring backwaters by canoe? The choice is yours. A houseboat holiday on the Murray is pure bliss.

Top Houseboating Spots:

• Mildura: A vibrant hub with numerous houseboat hire options, providing access to stunning stretches of the Murray and nearby attractions like the Trentham Estate Winery.
  
• Echuca Moama: A historic paddle steamer port offering a range of houseboating experiences and access to the Murray's diverse waterways.
  
• Deniliquin (Edward River): Explore the tranquil Edward River, a tributary of the Murray, known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
  

Visitor Information Centres: Stop by to get insider tips and local fishing hotspots from those who know the river best.

Top Activities:

Onboard:

• Relaxing on Deck: Soak up the sun, enjoy a good book, or simply unwind on your houseboat's deck.
• Barbecuing: Cook up a delicious meal and enjoy it al fresco on the deck of your houseboat.
• Swimming: Take a refreshing dip in the Murray (exercise caution due to potential currents).
• Fishing: Cast a line and try your luck at catching Murray Cod, golden perch, trout, or freshwater crayfish. (Remember, a NSW fishing license is required and be mindful of Murray Cod closed-season 1 Sept - 30 Nov)
• Bird Watching: Observe the diverse range of native birds that inhabit the riverbanks and surrounding areas.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, goannas, echidnas, wombats and possums along the riverbanks.
• Canoeing/Kayaking: Explore the quieter backwaters, lakes and tributaries of the Murray at your own pace.

Onshore (accessible from your houseboat):

• Exploring Riverside Towns: Discover the charm, history and vibrancy of the towns along the Murray River.
• Visiting Wineries: Sample local wines and enjoy the beautiful vineyard scenery at wineries like Trentham Estate and Morrison’s Winery.
• Playing Golf: Tee off at riverside golf courses like the Coomealla Golf Club.
• Hiking/Walking in Parks and Forests: Explore the natural beauty of regional parks and state forests such as Gol Gol State Forest, Murray Valley Regional Park, and Perricoota State Forest.
• Dining Out: Enjoy a meal at local restaurants, cafes, and pubs.

Houseboating Regulations:

• Houseboat Operation: No boat license is required; a driver's license and a sense of adventure are all you need. Operators provide a mooring lesson.
• Fishing Licenses: A NSW fishing license is required for all fishing activities.
• General River Safety: Adhere to general river safety and navigation rules (operators will provide briefings).
• Houseboat Capacity: Respect the maximum capacity of your chosen houseboat (varies from 4-6 to up to 12 people).
• Parking: Parking arrangements for cars, caravans, and trailers vary by houseboat operator.
• Pet Policies: Pet policies vary by houseboat operator.