A vacation, in my humble opinion, should be equal parts relaxing and adventurous. That’s why I’m so totally and completely obsessed with the idea of houseboats—comfortable lodging (some have hot tubs and slides!) that can also serve as a vehicle to get you where you want to go.
I recently spent a few nights on a houseboat in Lake Powell in northern Arizona at Antelope Point Marina. If you’ve never heard of Lake Powell, it’s basically the Grand Canyon, on water, and it is stunning.
We stayed on a 70’ houseboat that had a full living room, full kitchen and TV, plus two staterooms, two rooms in the lower berth and two bathrooms. There were enough beds to sleep 8 comfortably, plus a full living room with two couches. You can also request beds to pull up on the roof so that you can sleep under the stars—something I’d definitely try next time!
If by now you’re Google imaging the area and are drooling at your desk, good! This time of year is the perfect time to plan a visit. It’s after Labor Day, so the crowds have died down, but the air is still cool enough that you don’t have to run a generator while you’re on the water.
Ready for your trip? Yay! Here are a few things to think about before you go.
1) Plan Your Meals Before You Go:
One of the most daunting tasks is stocking your boat with food, snacks and drinks for the time you’re on it. Once you’ve made a list, you can pre-order foods from the local Safeway in Page, Arizona (the closest city) and have it delivered to your houseboat. Or you can go to the grocery store and bring it all on the boat yourself (they have golf carts at the marina, which help with this). In general, keep it simple—plan for cook outs, BBQs and casual breakfasts. Your boat will likely have a grill, a microwave and a fridge. Don’t forget the wine!
2) Account for the Weather:
Arizona weather is known for its consistency, but the temperature varies wildly from season to season and time of day. In the summer, you’ll need to run a generator most evenings as the weather is hot hot hot, while in the winter, you’ll just need some extra blankets. The marina is open year-round, but certain facilities may not be if you come in the off-season winter months.
3) Spend As Much Time On the Water As You Can
If you’re in between deciding on a 3-day or 5-day adventure, make it the 5-day. Being out on the water is incredibly relaxing and Lake Powell is huge—with over 96 side canyons and 1800 miles of coastline, there’s no way you’ll see it all, but the more time you have to be out here and explore the better.
4) Take Advantage of The Marina’s Offerings
Antelope Point Marina has a lot going on in, before you hit the open water. Here, you can take a boat tour that will bring you to the mouth of famous Antelope Canyon (which looks awesomely different from the water), dine in the restaurant, gas up the boat, and book a shuttle to take you into the town of Page. You can also ask for info on anything Lake Powell and houseboating. I highly recommend grabbing a map!
5) Make it a Family Affair
Or the coolest company retreat ever. Once you’re on the water, you’re most likely just going to be with your group—take advantage of this time! Houseboating is a fun way to bring everyone together, while still having the space to allow each person individual time. Many houseboats are also pet-friendly, so Fido can come too. Some groups decorate the boat, have theme nights or costume contests—get creative, and most importantly, get in the water!
Have you ever stayed on a houseboat before? What are your top tips?