The best houseboat stays in Western Australia

Ever fancied waking up to the gentle sway of water or sipping your morning cuppa while watching the sun rise over a serene river? Sounds like it’s time to swap the hustle and bustle of the city for the tranquil charm only houseboats can offer. 

Whether you’re on the hunt for a romantic escape or a unique family getaway, WA has some of the best on-the-water accommodations that are sure to float your boat (sorry, couldn’t resist).

Ready to find your own floating haven? Here are the top four houseboat stays to check out in WA. 

Blackwood River Houseboats

Nestled in WA’s South West, Blackwood River is a beloved spot for nature lovers. Whether you’re keen on a bit of fishing, bird-watching, or kayaking, this is the perfect place to get in touch with the state’s natural wonders. 

A family-run business, Blackwood River Houseboats has a fleet of three boats, all of which are named for the owners’ children. The Allira and Storm can comfortably sleep six people, while the River has the capacity for four guests. All houseboats come with linen, fully equipped kitchens, BBQs, swimming decks, heated showers, and cabin heating, meaning you can enjoy creature comforts even in the middle of this majestic river. 

Rates vary depending on the season and days of the week of your stay, with prices ranging from $1489 (for a three-night, mid-week stay during normal season) to $5400 (for a six-night stay during peak season). 

Houseboat Holidays

Houseboat Holidays operates on the Walpole-Nornalup Inlet System, a gorgeous water channel surrounded by a dense karri, marri, and tingle forest. Pristine and peaceful, it’s the ideal backdrop for your next getaway, with a wealth of opportunities for outdoor activities, from canoeing to windsurfing to fishing. Or, you can soak up the natural beauty from the comfort of your houseboat, a cuppa or bevvy in hand. Houseboat Holidays has three houseboats available, sleeping between four and 10 people: the Cruise Away, the Break Away, and the Hide Away. 

A stay with Houseboat Holidays will cost anywhere from $1182 per weekend (three-night stay) to $3486 per week (seven-night stay). 

Kimberley Houseboats

Often described as the ‘Last Frontier’, the Kimberley is one of the world’s most incredible natural wilderness areas — which makes it the perfect destination for a houseboat stay. Based in Kununurra, Kimberley Houseboats is the lessor of the luxe Kimberley Dreaming houseboat. Designed to accommodate up to six people, the boat is equipped with two main cabins (one queen and one double), a pullout double couch, and a single bunk bed. Guests will also enjoy its fully equipped kitchen, large saloon, outdoor and indoor showers, aircon, and more. 

You’ll have the option to moor from one of three locations: Wilderness and Gorges; Bush Camp, Island and Creek; or Lily Creek Lagoon and Gourmet Dining. Kimberley Dreaming has a three-night minimum stay, which will set you back $2200. Additional nights are available for $300 per night, or you can book on a weekly basis for $3400 per week. 

Mandurah Houseboats

With a whopping 21 boats in its fleet, Mandurah Houseboats has something for everyone. Want something slightly rustic and budget-friendly? The Miss Bianca could be perfect. On the hunt for a more upscale option? Complete with an outdoor spa, reverse-cycle aircon, and a smart TV, the Quicksilver would be right up your alley.

Better yet, when you stay on any of the houseboats, you’ll be in the heart of Mandurah. Here you’ll be spoiled for choice of things to do, whether it’s browsing local markets, exploring its amazing selection of restaurants, or dolphin-watching. Hint: the Kwillena Gabi (which translates to Dolphin Water) Pool is a great place to catch a glimpse of these playful creatures. 

Nightly rates range from $375 to $1155, depending on the houseboat you choose. 

Header image: Kimberley Houseboats