The Best Houseboat Rentals
Giving "waterfront views" a whole new meaning
If you've ever watched Sleepless in Seattle for the zillionth time and wondered what life would be like on a houseboat, we've got good news: You can, in fact, rent one. From a Southern charmer in Charleston to a floating barge in Paris, below are seven awesome houseboats you'll want to book ASAP.
① A Pirate's Life for Me
Charleston, South Carolina, $209 a night
Completely gutted and rebuilt from reclaimed materials, this tiny home has a coastal color palette, vaulted ceilings and upcycled wood floors. Enjoy oysters and sweet tea on the spacious sundeck that overlooks Charleston Harbor and the Ravenel Bridge.
② Stunning Barge near Saint-Michel
Paris, France, $356 a night
Situated in the heart of the city, this fully renovated barge flaunts immaculately decorated interiors and a sun-drenched deck—sublime for savoring croissants and sipping Champagne.
③ Tugboat Sally S
Seattle, Washington, $215 a night
This restored 1927 tugboat has been updated with modern conveniences yet retains its vintage character. Enviable features include original porthole windows, wood paneling and sweet dining deck.
④ Whole Houseboat in Amsterdam
Amsterdam, Netherlands, $406 a night
Amsterdam's canals are lined with houseboats, but this waterfront treasure stands out from the fleet with a prime location (overlooking Westerkerk church), canal views and two king-sized bedrooms.
⑤ M/V Patriot
Boston, Massachusetts, $475 a night
Photo: HomeAway
This 45-foot steel trawler exudes New England charm and is just steps away from many of Beantown's must-see historical sites, including Faneuil Hall and Haymarket Boston.
⑥ The River Den
Wakefield, Quebec, Canada, $142 a night
Perched on the picturesque Gatineau River in Quebec, this all-season houseboat—sans hot water, electricity and refrigerator—is ideal for the true outdoorsman or woman.
⑦ The Floating Chapel
Palmetto, Florida, $275 a night
This floating wedding chapel-turned-vacation rental boasts an arched front door, dramatic 19-foot ceilings, an original pulpit, stained glass windows, granite countertops and a circular staircase.