Often times families can be pushed apart by the daily clutter, and endless action of their lives. Lodging on a boat for a week or two can be the perfect way to get that family glue sticking again.
There is a plethora of destinations that offer houseboat rentals. Many different rivers, lakes and coastal regions offer high quality houseboats for hire. At most of these locations you can rent per day, per week or longer depending on your plans. Each houseboat has all the creature-comforts of home. The average houseboat includes bedrooms, kitchens, dining areas, lounge areas, and plenty of deck space for a good time outdoors. These boats come in a variety of sizes, and are sure to be able to find the right fit for your family and your budget.
Boats of all shapes and sizes are great for vacations, but houseboats are the perfect fit for families. In fact, the name “houseboat” says it all. They are literally, floating houses. Most houseboats have a rectangular design with a flat bottom. The cabin is set on the base and is usually square shaped with the deck going all around and on top. Houseboats are most closely comparable to an extremely spacious RV.
For many families safety can be a major concern when considering a house boating vacation. If you have small children a houseboat vacation is most likely not for you. Even though there is a safety rail all the way around on nearly all houseboats, young children do not have the ability to navigate the deck safely. Don’t ruin your fun family vacation by having to worry the entire time. If you do decide to take young children on a houseboat vacation make sure that they wear life vests when on the deck. Most rental agencies require this, but it is an important safety tip to remember. Taking a houseboat vacation can be much less stressful if you wait until your youngest children have reached to seven to eight year old range, and know how to swim.
However, don’t make the mistake of thinking that a houseboat vacation with older children or even adults is perfectly safe. There are always steps to ensure safety that should be taken whenever on the water. It’s a good idea to wear life vests for everyone when on the deck. Be sure that the life vests include a safety whistle or flare for rescue crews to use in the unlikely event of an accident or severe storm. Also, include a phone and radio in case of trouble. In an emergency it’s much easier to call the coast guard than to flag down fellow boaters cruising at high speeds.
Houseboat rentals can be a great way to relax and bring a family closer together. Just be sure to do your research, and check on the proper safety policies before embarking on your family’s adventure. |
