What Forever Houseboats Is
Forever Houseboats is a rental company that operates houseboat fleets in multiple locations across the United States. The company rents boats by the day, week, or longer periods to people who want to live on or vacation on the water without buying their own vessel. You book through their website, arrive at a designated marina, and operate the boat yourself — Forever Houseboats does not provide a captain or crew.
The company operates in several states including Florida, Texas, and other regions, though the specific locations and number of boats available change seasonally. Each rental includes the boat itself, basic safety equipment, and access to moorings or marina slips at their partner locations. You pay a daily or weekly rate that varies by boat size, season, and how far in advance you book.
Key Takeaways
- Forever Houseboats rents boats for self-operation, meaning you captain the vessel yourself rather than hiring a professional crew.
- Rental rates depend on boat size, the season you travel, and how many days or weeks you rent, with longer bookings typically costing less per day.
- You will need a boating license or proof of boating safety certification in most states where Forever Houseboats operates.
- Damage deposits are required at booking and held until after the boat is returned and inspected for any harm beyond normal wear.
- Fuel, food, and docking fees at marinas outside Forever Houseboats' network are your responsibility and not included in the rental rate.
Boat Types and Sizes Available
Forever Houseboats offers several categories of boats, ranging from smaller vessels that sleep 4 to 6 people to larger houseboats that accommodate 10 or more. The specific models available depend on which location you rent from and the season. Smaller boats are less expensive per day but offer fewer amenities and sleeping spaces; larger boats cost more but include full kitchens, multiple bathrooms, and sleeping cabins for bigger groups.
Each boat listing on their website shows the number of sleeping berths, bathroom count, kitchen features, and onboard equipment like grills, hot tubs, or entertainment systems. The boat's age, condition, and exact layout vary by individual vessel, so you should review photos and specifications for the exact boat you will receive, not just the model type. Some boats are newer with modern interiors; others are older but still functional and maintained to safety standards.
Rental Rates and Booking Terms
Forever Houseboats charges by the day or week, with weekly rates typically offering a lower per-day cost than daily bookings. Rates fluctuate based on season — summer and holiday periods are more expensive than off-season months. A boat that costs $300 per day in July might cost $150 per day in February, depending on the location and demand.
When you book, you pay a deposit upfront (usually $500 to $2,000 depending on boat size) plus the rental cost for your stay. The deposit is refundable if the boat is returned in the same condition it was in when you picked it up, minus normal wear. You will also see fuel charges listed separately — some rentals include a fuel tank at pickup, while others charge you for fuel consumed during your rental period. Cancellation policies vary; most allow cancellation up to 7 to 14 days before your rental date for a full refund, but closer cancellations may forfeit the deposit.
Boating License and Safety Requirements
Most states where Forever Houseboats operates require renters to hold a boating safety certificate or boating license. The specific requirement depends on the state and sometimes on the boat's size or horsepower. Some states accept a certificate from an online boating safety course (which takes 2 to 4 hours and costs $15 to $50), while others require an in-person course or a formal license obtained through the state's fish and wildlife department.
Forever Houseboats will ask for proof of certification at check-in. If you do not have one, you will not be able to rent. The company does not provide the course or license; you must obtain it before your rental date. Check the boating requirements for the specific state and location where you plan to rent, because rules differ between Florida, Texas, and other regions.
What Is Included and What You Pay Extra For
The rental rate covers the boat, basic safety equipment (life jackets, fire extinguishers), and use of Forever Houseboats' designated moorings or marina slips. Some locations include a certain amount of fuel in the rental; others charge you for every gallon used. Linens, towels, and basic kitchen supplies are sometimes included and sometimes not — check your specific boat's listing.
You pay separately for fuel (if not included), food and groceries, docking fees at marinas outside the Forever Houseboats network, water and sewage pump-out services at some locations, and any damage to the boat beyond normal wear. If you want to dock at a marina that is not part of Forever Houseboats' system, you pay that marina's daily or weekly rate directly. Entertainment, activities, and any services like boat maintenance or repairs during your rental are also your responsibility.
Damage Deposits and Inspection Process
When you pick up the boat, Forever Houseboats staff will walk you through the vessel and document its condition in a checklist or photo record. You should inspect the boat carefully at this time and note any existing damage, stains, or mechanical issues. This record protects you from being charged for damage you did not cause.
When you return the boat, staff will inspect it again and compare it to the pickup condition. Minor wear — small scratches, fading, or normal use marks — is expected and not charged. Damage beyond normal wear, such as large dents, broken appliances, torn upholstery, or mechanical problems caused by misuse, will be deducted from your deposit. The company will provide an itemized list of any charges before releasing your refund. This process typically takes 5 to 10 business days after return.
Operating the Boat and Navigation
Forever Houseboats boats are designed for self-operation by renters, not professional captains. Before you leave the dock, staff will give you a brief orientation covering engine start-up, steering, docking procedures, and emergency equipment. This orientation is not a full boating course — it covers only the specific boat you are renting.
You are responsible for navigating the waterway safely, following all boating laws, and avoiding collisions or groundings. Houseboats are slower and less maneuverable than smaller boats, so they require more planning and wider turns. If you have never operated a boat before, renting a houseboat is more challenging than renting a small motorboat. Some renters hire a local captain to guide them for the first day or to handle difficult passages; Forever Houseboats can sometimes refer you to captains for hire, but this is an additional cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a captain's license to rent a Forever Houseboats boat?
No, but you do need a boating safety certificate or license, which is different. A captain's license is for people who operate boats commercially. A boating safety certificate shows you have passed a course on water safety, navigation rules, and emergency procedures. Most states require this certificate for houseboat renters; check your state's requirements before booking.
What happens if I damage the boat during my rental?
Minor damage like small scratches or dents from normal use is not charged. Significant damage — broken appliances, large dents, torn upholstery, or mechanical problems caused by misuse — will be deducted from your damage deposit. Forever Houseboats will provide an itemized list of charges. If damage exceeds your deposit, you may be billed for the remainder.
Can I bring my own food and supplies on the boat?
Yes. You can bring groceries, cooking supplies, and personal items. The boat's refrigerator, stove, and storage space are available for your use. Keep in mind that larger groups will need more food storage, and some boats have limited freezer or pantry space.
What if the boat breaks down during my rental?
Contact Forever Houseboats when ready using the emergency number provided at check-in. The company will dispatch a mechanic or send a replacement boat if the repair cannot be done quickly. You are not responsible for mechanical failures that are not caused by misuse. If the boat cannot be repaired and no replacement is available, Forever Houseboats will refund your rental cost for the remaining days.
Are pets allowed on Forever Houseboats rentals?
Pet policies vary by location and boat. Some Forever Houseboats locations allow pets for an additional fee; others do not. Check the specific boat's listing or contact the location directly before booking if you plan to bring a pet.