Houseboat hire with or without skipper

Rent a houseboat with Scansail

Escape the ordinary and embark on a boating journey with Scansail. Discover the freedom of houseboat hire and immerse yourself in the serene waters of the UK, Ireland, and beyond! Whether you're seeking a relaxing week-long retreat or an adventurous weekend getaway, Scansail is your ticket to an unparalleled maritime experience.

Houseboat hire offers a blend of tranquillity and adventure, allowing you to set your own course, explore hidden gems, and create lasting memories. We offer the flexibility of houseboat hire with or without a skipper, catering to both seasoned sailors and those new to the nautical lifestyle.

Find the ideal houseboat for your next boating holiday

Capacity: Tailored for Your Group

Intimate Retreats: Cozy vessels perfect for a romantic getaway for 2, or a small group of friends.

Family-Friendly: Spacious houseboat options with ample room for the whole family, ensuring everyone enjoys the journey comfortably.

Group Expeditions: Larger houseboats suitable for extended family gatherings or a group of friends seeking adventure together. Some houseboats have capacity for 30+ passengers.

Cabins - Spend the Night in Comfort

Choose a houseboat that perfectly fits your group, with a selection of cabins tailored to your needs. Houseboats on average can have from 2 to 8 cabins, allowing capacity for all of your fellow sailors.

Length of an Average Houseboat

Compact Crafts: Ranging from approximately 30 to 45 feet, our smaller houseboats offer nimble navigation and intimate settings, ideal for couples or smaller groups.

Spacious Cruisers: Measuring 50 feet and above, our larger houseboats provide ample room for extended journeys or accommodate larger groups, ensuring a luxurious and comfortable experience.

Extras: Elevate Your Experience

• Sauna: Relax and rejuvenate with an onboard sauna, adding a touch of luxury to your voyage.
• SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboard): Explore the waterways with this popular and accessible water activity.
• Fishing Gear: Cast a line and try your hand at fishing in scenic locations along your route.
• Kayak: Glide through tranquil waters and explore hidden coves with our available kayaks.
• Grill: Enhance your on-deck dining experience with a barbecue grill, perfect for alfresco meals under the open sky.

How much does it cost to hire a houseboat?

When you choose Scansail, your houseboat rental includes more than just a vessel:

• Fully Equipped Houseboat: Enjoy the comfort of a fully furnished houseboat, equipped with modern amenities and everything you need for a delightful journey.
• Navigation Essentials: Benefit from essential navigation equipment, ensuring a safe and smooth voyage along the waterways of the UK, Ireland, and The Netherlands.
• Fuel: Relax and focus on the adventure while we take care of the fuel costs, allowing you to explore without any hidden expenses.

Here are some average prices for houseboat hire with Scansail:

Per Day: Starting at £180, enjoy the freedom of a day-long adventure, perfect for those seeking a quick escape.

Weekend Getaway: Indulge in a weekend retreat starting at £500, striking a balance between relaxation and adventure.

Weekly Rental: Immerse yourself in a week-long maritime experience, with prices beginning at £1,350, offering ample time to explore and unwind at your own pace.

Fuel consumption

Factors that influence fuel consumption:

• Boat Size: Larger vessels may consume more fuel, but Scansail's fleet is carefully curated to balance size with efficiency.
• Speed: Cruising at a moderate speed can significantly impact fuel consumption, ensuring a harmonious blend of exploration and conservation.
• Navigation Conditions: Smooth waterways and strategic planning contribute to fuel savings, allowing you to enjoy the scenic routes without unnecessary fuel expenses.

Do you need a licence to rent a houseboat?

Embark on your aquatic adventure worry-free – licensing requirements vary from country to country. At Scansail, our expert team will guide you through the necessary steps, ensuring a seamless rental process whether you're exploring the UK, Ireland, or The Netherlands and beyond. Choose your course with confidence, whether with or without a skipper, and unlock the freedom of houseboat hire.

Where to hire a houseboat?

Discover the best places to hire a houseboat and immerse yourself in the beauty of river boating with Scansail. Our fleet awaits, offering the perfect vessel for your aquatic escape.

Explore the Surroundings: Cruise along serene waterways, discovering charming towns and hidden gems.
Onboard Leisure: Embrace wellness with a sauna on select vessels.
Shore Excursions: Hop on a bike and explore picturesque trails and local attractions.

Here are our top picks for houseboat hire destinations:

Lough Derg, Ireland

Experience the serene waters of Ireland's third-largest lake, surrounded by lush landscapes.

Giethoorn, The Netherlands

Navigate the "Venice of the North," exploring picturesque canals and thatched-roof cottages.

Staffordshire, England

Cruise surrounded by stunning scenery in the Lake District.

The Thames Valley, England

Explore the heart of England, meandering through quintessential English countryside and historic sites.

Which is the best season to rent a houseboat?

Weather Conditions

• Spring: Blooming landscapes, mild temperatures, and the awakening of nature make spring a delightful time to explore the waterways.
• Summer: Bask in the warm sunshine and longer days, ideal for leisurely cruises and on-deck activities.
• Autumn: Witness nature's transformation as fall foliage paints the waterways with warm hues.
• Winter: Brave the colder temperatures for a unique winter wonderland experience.

Festivities: Celebrate on the Water

Experience the vibrancy of summer festivals, with many waterside events, live music, and cultural gatherings enhancing your houseboat adventure. Or cruise through autumn landscapes and partake in local harvest festivals, savouring the flavours of the season at charming waterside markets.

High or Low Season:

• High Season (Summer): Enjoy bustling waters, lively events, and longer days for exploration. Advanced booking is recommended during this popular period.
• Low Season (Spring, Autumn, Winter): Experience a quieter journey with fewer crowds, providing a more intimate connection with nature and local attractions.