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Rainy Lake Houseboats is located on the Minnesota/Ontario border on magnificent Rainy Lake. It’s where the highways end and the ancient waterways begin. We offer amazing Minnesota houseboat vacation rentals on Rainy Lake in Voyageurs National Park — the only inland water-based park in the National Park System. You’ll even have access to first-rate freshwater fishing for walleye, smallmouth bass, northern pike, crappie, and musky.

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Revel in all Rainy Lake has to offer: undeveloped wilderness, a multitude of wildlife, superior birding prospects, secluded beaches, hidden bays, and world-class freshwater fishing. Renting with Rainy Lake Houseboat enables you to explore Rainy Lake’s 220,000 acres of sky blue waters and majestic forests. We invite you to come and experience this timeless land — to wander, rest, and renew your spirit.

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Voyageurs National Park Houseboat Adventure

Voyageurs National Park is a watery, wilderness wonderland amid the Boundary Waters of Minnesota and is best explored via a houseboat rental. In this post, I will answer an array of questions I’ve recently received from my audience. I wish to help prepare you for navigating these waters; for camping out under the stars; for exploring and working your way through this utterly unique park the best I can. Thus, I will shed light on all I’ve learned throughout my two times voyaging these waters with our Voyagaire Houseboat rental. I hope to inspire you to visit this highly underrated park. I ensure you: you’ll have the time of your life!

Post Contents:

• Frequently asked questions and answers
• Must-go/must-visit places in the park
• Voyageurs National Park & Voyagaire Houseboat Video
• Best Day Ever in Voyageurs National Park blog post

DISCLOSURE :

THIS POST CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS AND I RECEIVE A COMMISSION IF YOU VISIT A LINK AND BUY SOMETHING ON MY RECOMMENDATION. PURCHASING VIA AN AFFILIATE LINK DOESN’T COST YOU ANY EXTRA, AND I ONLY RECOMMEND PRODUCTS AND SERVICES I TRUST. ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN. FOR MORE DETAILS SEE MY DISCLOSURE AND PRIVACY POLICY.

VOYAGEURS NATIONAL PARK HOUSEBOAT ADVENTURE

Frequently asked questions and answers.

Q: Where do you rent a houseboat?

A: I cannot recommend renting your houseboat from Voyagaire Lodge and Houseboats more! Not only are their houseboats extremely well-equipped and great functioning, but their employees are the best. They’re super helpful, kind and generous – an utter blast to be around. They’re located on Crane Lake, address: 7576 Gold Coast Rd, Crane Lake, Minnesota 55725.

Q: What all is included in their houseboats?

A: There are many different sizes with varying amenities available, but we’ve voyaged on their Sunseeker 540 both times we’ve gone. This particular boat is equipped with: a full kitchen; a sizable bathroom ( larger than any RV bathroom I’ve been in ); multiple sleeping options ( sleeps 10-12 people ) with 3 double beds, pull-out couches and 2 single beds; an 8-person hot tub on the upper deck along with a waterslide, a wrap-around booth and table for dining, a lower “porch” with chairs and a grill…it had everything and then some! For a full list of the included amenities ( such as kitchen appliances and kitchenware, etc ), click here .

Q: How much does it cost to rent the Sunseeker 540 houseboat?

A: The weekly rate is $4,395.00 and the daily rate is $875.00. A $600.00 deposit is required upon booking. Now it may sound pricy to some but, if you split the cost between 10 friends or multiple families, it can be much more affordable. Also, please note that there’s a $30 per day insurance fee and you have to pay for the amount of fuel you use upon your return ( we spent between $500-600 on fuel during our time there ). Kayaks are available to rent as well for an additional $30 per day.

Q: Do you need a boating permit?

A: Short and sweet, the answer is no.

Q: Do you need an overnight permit for the national park?

A: Yes, a houseboat permit is required when staying overnight in Voyageurs National Park. They’re only $40 / week and can be purchased here: recreation.gov. Furthermore, there are no limits to the number of houseboat permits issued for any one day or season and you can purchase them up to the last minute. Just be sure to bring the printed permit along with you on your boat.

Q: How do you find places to camp/ “dock” your boat at night?

A: A giant map is provided and marked with various symbols. The black dots symbolize places for houseboats to stay for the night and most have campfire pits. You are not permitted to dock the boat at tenting sites – those are reserved for tent campers only! Even more, the sites are all first come, first serve and do not require any reservations. We always decided what area we wanted to play in at the beginning of each day, and would make our way there. If one was taken, we’d simply seek out another site nearby. Personally, I opted for sites that were more remote and away from other visitors. Not to mention, Doug preferred sites facing east, away from the setting sun, so he was better able to capture the dark and starry night skies. Later in this post I will list some of my favorite campsites and must-go places in the park.

Q: How do you navigate the boundary waters on your houseboat?

A: Let me begin this answer by saying: the employees of Voyagaire do a phenomenal job at explaining all this to you before setting you off on your journey. However, the main rule of thumb when following the buoy system is “ Red Right Return “. So, red equals left side and green equals right side on your way there and, on your way back, red equals right ( as you return ) and green equals left. Furthermore, there are numbered markers throughout the waterways that coincide with the circled numbers on the map (above). In total, there are three very large maps provided in your houseboat – use these 1000% when navigating. The maps contain many symbols to look out for such as asterisks which identify rocks you absolutely need to stay away from. I highly recommend bringing along a pair of binoculars to aid in buoy and marker identification from a distance.

Click here to shop the Vortex Optic Raptor binoculars ( above )

that I recommend from Backcountry.com

Q: How do you “dock” your houseboat at the campsites?

A: This will take practice and will, undoubtedly, be difficult at first so be patient. To dock your houseboat at a beach site or rock site, two members of your crew must jump off ( there’s a plank available to assist if need be ) with the large ropes from each side of the boat in hand. Then, they’ll tie and knot the ropes off at a 45 degree angle on both sides to a nearby tree ( or hook if provided at the site ). The ropes need to be as tight as possible with minimal to zero slack. All the while, it’s the captain’s responsibility to safely and slowly guide the boat into the position needed to properly tie off at. Once again, this is something the employees with go over with you prior to departure.

Q: What if we forget something or need assistance while we’re out in the middle of nowhere on our houseboat?

A: Aw, don’t you worry! Voyagaire has got you covered! You simply radio into their base ( or another base called “Red Bird” depending on your location ) and they’ll send someone out to assist you. For example: during our most recent trip a week ago, our motor for our fishing boat pooped out on us. We were unable to fix it, so we radioed Red Bird and a sweet couple came in no time to fix it. Also, we began running out of breakfast meats our first trip and simply radioed for some food delivery ( they’ll deliver just about anything to wherever you happen to be in Voyageurs for a $55 service fee).

Q: How does the generator work?

A: First off, the generator works splendidly. The employees will give you the full rundown on which switches to use when turning it on and off, etc. There’s also a full manual located in the houseboat for you to refer to at any time. The generator powers the hot water, the electricity and many of the appliances and things you’ll like to utilize. However, you must turn it off when you go to sleep at night ( and sometimes, even more frequently).

For great safety measures, there are very effective carbon monoxide detectors located in the front and back of the boat’s interior. We had our detectors go off and immediately shut down the generator and opened the windows to let fresh air in. If this happens to you, don’t be alarmed – it’s just letting you know it’s time to power it down. You’re able to keep the generator running for good chunks of time at once so it’s not inconvenient in the slightest.

Q: What do I need to bring with me on my Voyageurs National Park houseboat adventure?

A: This all depends on what you plan on doing, but here’s a list of things I’ve brought each time ( you can click on the link or image to find out more info and to purchase if you choose):

Marmot Trestles 15 Sleeping Bag

I’ve brought my sleeping bag every time because, without the generator at night, it can get a little chilly ( nothing intolerable though ). Also, they offer a bedding/linen package at an additional cost, if you prefer to go that route.

Pendleton Towel For Two

Of course, you’re going to want a towel for drying off when you go swimming, hot-tubbing or after showering. I love the incredible design of our Pendleton towel and adore the fact that it’s so big! It’s ideal for sunbathing and relaxing on and it is extremely durable with a lifetime warranty.

KEEN Whisper Sandal – Waterproof – Women’s

These are the best, multi-functional shoes for Voyageurs National Park! You can hike in them and swim in them. They even have a heavy-duty toe covering for when walking in rocky waters and such. Without them, I would’ve had a much more difficult time climbing out of the water and up onto the rocky cliffs.

Columbia Evolution Valley Pant – Women’s – Waterproof

You’ll want to pack waterproof and wind-breaking pants for those mornings and evenings when you’re fishing, kayaking or even hiking. And, of course, they’ll come in handy for exploring on those rainy days.

Cotopaxi Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker – Women’s

Another addition to your layers list is this bright and fun windbreaker. Cotopaxi’s Teca is extremely packable ( I can fit it in my fanny pack ) and weather protective. It’s lightweight but effective.

Patagonia Synchilla Lightweight Snap-T Fleece Pullover – Women’s

Next layer you’ll want to bring is a fleece for those cool nights when you’re sitting next to the campfire. I simply love the designs Patagonia’s fleeces offer and their warmth is unmatched. Their spandex bindings at the cuffs and hem lock in your body heat. Did you know that they’re also super eco-friendly?

Carve Designs Lake Sunshirt Rashguard – Women’s

On top of the obvious swimsuit, you’ll want to pack a rash guard if you plan on climbing up rocks to get out of the water ( at rocky sites ) and go cliff-jumping – which I highly recommend.

Prana Schaffie – Women’s Swim/Board Shots

You’ll also want these if you plan on adventuring in the water. Even more, they’re perfect for kayaking and rainy days. They’re quick dry, comfortable and so very practical. Not one day went by in Voyageurs NP that I didn’t wear these.

You’ll absolutely want to capture your amazing memories during your trip, so don’t forget to pack your camera gear. The following are a few of the photography / videoing gear that I personally recommend and use…

• Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless Digital Camera with 15-45mm Lens and Accessory Kit (Black)
• GoPro HERO8 Black 
• DJI Mavic Mini

Continued list of items to bring on your Voyageurs National Park houseboat adventure:

• Reusable water bottle for filling up and taking on kayaking excursions, fishing outings on the boat etc
• Backpack for hiking, kayaking etc.
• Flashlight / headlamp for nighttime outside of the boat
• bug spray and sunscreen (recommend spraying your clothes with permethrin before coming to fight against mosquitos, biting flies and ticks)
• 100% bring groceries and beverages (stop at a nearby store on your way into Voyagaire Lodge and Houseboat)
• Any floats you may want to lounge around in the water with.
• Portable hammock.
• Fishing poles, tackle box and minnow bucket.
• Here is a list provided with more suggestions: List of things to bring on your houseboat .

Q: Where do I buy my fishing license for my Voyageurs National Park houseboat adventure?

A: If you’re out of state, like me, you can purchase your license online or at the local store, Norman’s One-Stop Shop in Orr, MN . It costs $43 for a one-week, non-resident license.

Q: How long does it take to make it from Crane Lake clear up to Kettle Falls?

A: If you drive your boat directly from your starting point at Voyagaire to Kettle Falls, with no stopping or dilly-dallying, it’ll take you roughly 6 hours to make it to Kettle Falls.

Where to go and where to camp in Voyageurs National Park?

1. grassy bay.

Grassy bay on Sand Point Lake is home to a few of my favorite campsites along with sheer 125-foot cliffs and dozens of islands. Here is where you’ll find the highest points within the boundaries of Voyaguers National Park so it’s certainly well-worth the visit. It also seems to be one of the quieter areas to camp and explore in. I had a field day kayaking below the gigantic rock walls and amid the many islands – hopping off to explore many of them.

2. Burnt Island

Also located on Sand Point Lake, Burnt Island is the place to go cliff-jumping! We docked our boat ( not without hardship ) along the island, climbed up and jumped off! I reckon the cliffs are approximately 30-35 feet high ( and that’s what my research has told me, too ). Despite there always being risk with these sort of adrenaline-pumping activities, the risk isn’t too great – the water below the cliffs are 80-90 feet deep and you have all the room in the world to jump and properly land. This is always one of my favorite islands to visit as my trip wouldn’t be complete without some cliff-jumping.

3. Ashback Beach

This houseboat campsite is on its own, private island in the middle of Lake Namakan and, it’s pretty big compared to some of the others. Ashback Beach was, perhaps, one of my favorite campsites of all because it…had it all! It was utterly remote, had a beach, multiple coves, a fairy-like forest & trails and the best views of the night sky.

4. Wolf Pack Islands

As if the name isn’t rad enough, directly across from the islands on the mainland lies a long stretch of beach where you can pull in and camp for the night. This spot is the sandiest, smoothest place we’ve found for some secluded swimming ( great for anyone who prefers sand ). Even more, the dense woodlands behind the beach contain a plethora of trails, one even lead up to a cliffside overlook where you can witness a breath-taking sunset. First thing in the morning, before sunrise, I took off in my kayak and roamed Wolf Pack Islands – I was greeted with such serenity. It was the perfect morning.

5. Gable Point

Situated between Lake Namakan and Lake Kabetogama, this rocky site is among the most secluded places we stayed and it was my personal favorite for swimming, sunbathing and water-sliding. Among the other huge perks: it also seemed to have the least bugs/mosquitos ( win-win )! Here is where we had the majority of our in-water fun along with throwing a private party. We drank, danced, listened to tunes, had a campfire, skinny dipped, sunbathed and had ourselves a riot of a time. There was no one in sight to tell us to settle down or damper our good time.

6. Kettle Falls

Along with hiking trails and waterfalls, Kettle Falls is home to the only hotel, dating back to the early 1900s, inside the park. Though we did not stay overnight in the hotel ( obviously we had our boat ), we did pop in to its bar for some afternoon beers. We were greeted by a super friendly bartender who gave us a history lesson on the place and area while showing us old photographs, etc. She also played the antique nickelodeon for us which was an utter delight. She opened it up so we could see it working its century-old magic while listening to it’s music. I was left in awe and the entire experience was incredible! We felt like we walked back in time.

7. Vermillion Gorge

Just outside the park in Superior National Forest, near Crane Lake, lies the enchanting Vermillion Gorge. Here you can hike back a wonderful trail above the rushing waters and along the steep, narrow cliffs as the sounds of rushing water, the sights of dancing rays between the trees and the smell of pines and flowers fill the air around you. This is an impressive place, indeed, and a perfect way to either begin or end your houseboat voyage.

Needless to say, there are endless places to explore in Voyageurs National Park with your houseboat, kayak and own two feet but, the above places are some of my favorite and a fantastic starting point to planning your adventure here!

Our video created for Voyagaire

Watch as we explore Voyageurs National Park in our Voyagaire houseboat via our short adventure video. Also, stay tuned for my upcoming Voyageurs National Park video from this most recent trip ( to be released soon ).

“Best Day Ever in Voyageurs National Park”

When you ask yourself, “ What’s one of the best days I’ve had this year or even in my life ?”, you begin to reflect.  Upon reflection, certain days immediately come to mind with little to no effort.  I know, for me, there are about ten unforgettable days that instantly pop into my mind from recent years.  Days that I remember with utmost clarity.  Not to say that I’ve only had ten amazing days, because I’ve had SO many more.  But, the type of days that I am referring to are the days when you don’t think about the past or the future – they are the days when you are living so completely in the moment that every single fiber of your being feels at peace with the universe.  Everything feels RIGHT.  Perfect.  This day at Voyageurs National Park was precisely one of those days in my life. Read my blog post below to find out all about it (and to see why Voyageurs National Park and the Minnesota Boundary Waters are immensely special to me)

Best Day Ever in Voyageurs National Park

Thank you so much for reading my post and if you have any questions that I may not have covered, whatsoever, feel free to ask away in the comments below. Also, if you’ve been to Voyageurs National Park: how was your experience? Did you fall madly, deeply in love with it like I?

As always…

Much love and happy travels,

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22 thoughts on “ Voyageurs National Park Houseboat Adventure ”

What a unique experience. I had no idea you could do things like this. Ashback Beach night shot is unbelievable! Now I want to do this!!!

Thank you so much! It’s one of my favorite vacations in the summer USA. It’s so remote and unique. Also, it’s perfect during these corona times – social distancing at its finest ☺️👍🏻👍🏻

I loved the video Mindy! Great adventure!

Wow. Renting a houseboat would be so much fun! I could definitely see myself going this with a group of friends.

Thank you! And it’s so fun! With a group of friends would be ideal. If you do it, hope you have the best time ☺️👍🏻

Wauw!! This looks like the perfect place to go on a vacation and relax!! Looks amazing. Oh those night shots… beautiful! Thanks for sharing all the precious info! xo, Barbara | Porty’s Diary

Such a secluded and serene vacation! For sure. And thank you so so much! My husband, Doug Michaels, took the majority of the photos (only one of the starry skies photos are mine haha). He’s very talented ❤️

I do not know if there is something cooler than this! The place is gorgeous. The starry night pictures are amazing. I had no idea this park had to be explored in this way. But, it is one of a kind experience.

Thank you SO much! And yes, the park is so unique because you explore via waterways, not roads. People also take smaller boats and kayaks and camp in tents. But either way, it’s an awesome water park! ☺️💕🙌🏻

I’ve never heard of this park and OMG I want to go! I am not familiar with any of the midwest/great lake area and want to do some exploring up there – truly beautiful!

I’m so happy to have introduced you to it! It’s utterly beautiful and so so peaceful up there. It’s one of the least crowded parks so that makes it even better. I also wrote a blog post on Pictured Rocks National Lake Shore in the Upper Peninsula Michigan area (post is titled: “How to See Pictured Rocks by Foot”). That’s a very very beautiful Great Lakes / Midwest place to explore as well 😍❤️👍🏻

Wow. I must have been living under a rock but I never even knew a House Boat Rental was a thing! Now I need to look up where I can do this near me!

I would’ve never thought of it either. Until we partnered with Voyagaire a few years ago .. now, I’m obsessed! Thanks girl! ☺️🥰❤️

I went to Voyageurs National Park for the first time last year and really loved it there + would love to go back someday! I went canoeing but didn’t know you could go on houseboats!

That’s so awesome you’ve been there! And canoeing sounds like a blast! 🛶 🙌🏻❤️

This houseboat rental looks AMAZING! Adding it to my bucket list :). Thanks for sharing!

Voyageurs National Park looks like a fantastic area to explore, and what a fun way to explore it on a house boat! I keep hearing about fun hikes in Minnesota, but this takes the biscuit! It looks so much fun!

p.s. the staaaars!? Wowza!

This looks like such a cool experience! I’ve seen these advertised in various places but have never booked one. Will look into it in the future.

Wow a houseboat is such a cool idea and a great alternative to a campervan or a tent! I wouldn’t have thought to go for this as an accommodation option in a national park, and it doesn’t seem too pricey either

Awesome post! It’s great to read about unique things that I can do within the country right now. I’ve been looking for some social distanced in nature types of things to do and I think that riding on a house boat could be a great idea. Thanks for sharing!

This looks so fun! I’ve always wanted to stay on a houseboat and this looks so beautiful!!!

I have been longing to stay in a houseboat! I always look for unique accommodations to stay at while traveling.

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Minnesota Houseboat Rentals

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Minnesota Houseboat Rental

We offer Minnesota houseboat vacations in Voyageurs National Park. The park consists of five major lakes, Kabetogama, Namakan, Sand Point, Crane and Rainy Lake. Kettle Falls links us to the eastern portion of Rainy Lake via small boat portage. The Voyageurs National Park is 1/3 water based and has over 219,000 acres and no roads. We are based on the beautiful Ash River which is the central entrance to the park.

Wildlife is abundant in Voyageurs…deer, moose, otters, bald eagles, black bear and white pelicans are few examples. This makes Voyageurs National Park a great area for the photo enthusiasts. 

Fill your vacation days with fishing, swimming, bird watching, and berry picking. Unless, of course, you would rather just enjoy relaxing as you float along.

Our season begins with the fishing opener and ends with the rainbow of fall colors.

Please note that all deposits are non-refundable.  There is a 3 night minimum on all houseboat rentals.

Now offering 20% off beginning September 1.

We have several sizes of houseboats from the ultra modern to very basic. Standard features include carpeting, oven/stoves, hot & cold running water, showers, marine toilets and swim slides just to name a few. The newest houseboats in our fleet offer air conditioning, DVD players, hot tubs and multiple bathrooms.

Our houseboats were created to be operated by novice boaters. We will instruct each guest with operation, navigation and emergencies. Our knowledgeable and helpful staff will prepare you and answer all of your questions. While on board there are no schedules or deadlines to worry about until your boat is due to return.  

We recommend at least two able-bodied people for mooring the houseboat and on larger boats (Vista’s and 65′ Series), more than two able-bodied people.  You must be able to walk on uneven ground, going from the houseboat to shoreline.  

Come experience your first or next Minnesota houseboat vacation with the Ebels.

Take a photo or video tour of a Voyageur Houseboat Vacation

Contact us today to book a trip.

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15 essentials things to know before renting a houseboat in voyageurs national park.

Each summer, visitors come to Voyageurs National Park in northern Minnesota in the hopes of hearing the call of the loon, capturing a glimpse of bear cubs, taking in the the incredible night sky, and reeling in the catch of the day. This park is made to be explored by water – and renting a houseboat is one of the most popular ways to do this!

If you’re considering renting a houseboat in Voyageurs National Park, here are 15 essential things you should know before making your reservation. 

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. That means that if you purchase through a link, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. For more info, visit this page .

1 | Basic boating skills are essential.

2 | book way in advance., 3 | motorized fishing boat must be pulled by the houseboat., 4 |houseboat permit is required through recreation.gov., 5 | boats have a lot of amenities., 6 | discounts are available before and after the busy season., 7 | houseboats must be parked overnight., 8 | hospitality service is available., 9 | be prepared to troubleshoot issues onboard., 10 | weather is unpredictable, but the bugs are a sure thing., 11 | lots of options for where to park your houseboat each night., 12 | must be able to rope start a motor or generator., 13 | you will be in international waters..

• 14 | Bring your own food, or don't.

15 | Be prepared for frigid water even on the hottest days.

Are you ready to rent a houseboat in voyageurs national park, voyageurs national park houseboat rental: know before you go.

If the idea of driving a houseboat intimidates you, you’re not alone. They are essentially an RV on a pontoon moving through the seemingly endless lakes and interconnected waterways lined with mostly rocky shoreline. It’s certainly not for everyone. 

I’ve been around boats my entire life – not houseboats, but fishing boats or all sizes. I feel comfortable navigating a boat and landing it at a dock or on the shoreline. Driving a houseboat is different and a little more challenging. 

The rental company will give you a basic orientation to the boat’s primary systems and will be available by radio to help troubleshoot. However, without prior boating experience I can see how this could become dangerous very quickly. 

Skills that are most helpful include navigation on the water, radio communication, landing a boat, tying off a boat, and troubleshooting mechanical and electrical systems. It’s important to know that much of the shoreline in Voyageurs is more rocky than sandy.

Pro Tip: Before you go download the Navionics app. This app has detailed maps of the water, including depth and obstructions, and works offline without cellphone service. This was an invaluable resource.

Voyageurs may be one of the less crowded national parks in the US, but the houseboat and campsites reservations go quickly. If you have your heart set on visiting this park, plan to book well in advance (in springtime).

This is for safety reasons in the event that the houseboat is damaged. The cost of the boat and motor may be separate from the houseboat reservation. You can bring your own motorized boat to tow behind if you prefer.

Before visiting, you must secure a houseboat permit through recreation.gov for your specific dates of travel (~$10/day). I recommend doing this around the same time you reserve the houseboat.

Houseboat permits are not specific to any houseboat site.

Also, the permit must be printed and displayed on your boat. Plan to print yours in advance and bring it with you. There is no access to print the permit once onsite.

Houseboats are available in a number of sizes, but you can expect to find heat, hot water, refrigerator, microwave, electricity (via generator), and a grill. There is essentially a full kitchen onboard!

Some houseboats are fitted with rooftop patios and even hot tubs!

There are several houseboat rental companies that offer access into the park. Many of these offer discounts before and after peak season, which is generally before Memorial Day (late May) and after Labor Day (early September). These discounts can be as much as 25% off, which can add up to a lot of money!

Quiet hours in the park are from 10pm to 6am. During these hours boats must be docked or tied off on the shoreline and generators must be off. When planning your visit be sure to take this into account and take advantage of the beautiful sounds of nature after dark!

Did you forget something? Or need to restock on a few items? Some houseboat rental companies, like Voyagaire where I rented from, have a hospitality service that runs daily. They can bring anything from ice to alcohol or food! If you plan to use this service, be sure to ask what the cutoff time is to place your order each day.

One thing to keep in mind – everyone can hear your order. Orders are placed via the radio, which is on an open channel. 

Inevitably there will be unexpected issues that come up while you’re onboard. Whether it’s the generator not starting or the hot water not working properly, it’ll surely be something. The rental company will be available to help via radio but don’t shy away from asking questions during your orientation. 

If you are unfamiliar with weather in Minnesota, it’s important to know that it can be very unpredictable. In just the first 24 hours on the boat, we went from 78F and sunny to 32F with a light, wet snow – and that was in May.

Check the weather before you go and be prepared for a wide range of temperatures and conditions. 

Pro Tip: Bring lots of layers and bug spray. Here are my tips to avoid being eaten alive my mosquitoes and ticks !

Before I went, I was very concerned that I wouldn’t be able to find a place to park the houseboat overnight. I now understand that there are seemingly endless options! While there are a number of first-come first-served designated houseboat sites throughout the park, houseboats can also be parked just about anywhere you can find a place to safely land the boat and tie it off to trees. 

There are a few exceptions. Houseboats cannot park overnight at designated ‘day use’ or ‘tent camping’ sites. These are visibly marked on the shore with a brown sign. Also, houseboats cannot park within 200 yards of a designated site or structure (such as a tent camping site). 

Campfires are only allowed at designated houseboat sites. This is because they have established campfire rings for fire safety purposes. So, if you have you heart set on s’mores over a campfire, be sure to find a designated houseboat site.

If you’ve ever had to rope start a motor or lawn mower, you know it can be a pain in the butt. Both the fishing boat I rented and the houseboat generator required a rope start. 

If you haven’t done this before, be sure to ask them to show you in detail during your houseboat orientation and even practice before you take off. 

The park spans across US and Canadian waters. There’s a very good chance you’ll cross over into international waters at some point during your visit. This is totally fine, but… do not touch land or wildlife on the Canadian side (unless you want to risk an encounter with US Customs). Use the maps provided to make sure that wherever you park your boat and/ or fish is in US territory.

14 | Bring your own food, or don’t.

The houseboats will have a fully fitted, although small, kitchen onboard as well as a grill. So, you can bring whatever you’d like to prepare and eat during your stay! But if you prefer not to do that, some houseboat rental companies have a meal plan or food provision service. This means they will work with you in advance to agree a meal plan and then stock your boat with all the food and ingredients you need. Be sure to inquire about these services before booking!

The water temperatures in northern Minnesota can be *quite* cold well into June. Keep in mind that it’s common for there to be ice on the water into late April and even early May. If you plan to go swimming, mid to late summer may be more enjoyable!

It’s definitely not for everyone! As someone who has been around boats most of my life, it was still a little challenging and I had two other people with me helping to navigate and land the boat. The park is expansive and pristine wilderness, which is both beautiful and harrowing when you’re out there alone on the water.

Find my complete houseboat packing list , including what to bring and what to leave behind!

Have questions about renting a houseboat in Voyageurs National Park? Drop them in the comments below!

Related content to read next:

How to Avoid Getting Eaten Alive by Mosquitoes & Ticks (for Hikers!)

How to Survive Hiking in Bear Country

20 Essential Outdoor Adventure Safety Tips

Check out my Minnesota travel page for even more inspiration and tips!

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This Big Wild World

Hi! Welcome to This Big Wild World travel blog! I believe that there’s a sense of adventure inside of everyone, waiting to be discovered. From epic hikes around the world to adventures closer to my home in Minnesota, I’m here to help you discover what adventure means to you!

17 thoughts on “ 15 Essentials Things To Know Before Renting a Houseboat in Voyageurs National Park ”

Good question! I can relate – I had the same problem before I went. I rented from Voyagaire, which is a the southern end of Crane Lake. In the first half day we went from Voyagaire back into Grassy Bay (about 10 miles). The next day we went from Grassy Bay up into Namakan near Blind Pig Island and back to Wolf Point on Crane Lake (about 24 miles). We took our time, stopping at different islands and stuff to explore during the day. Some of the channels are pretty narrow so you have to go relatively slow but you can cover quite a bit of ground if you want in a day. Hope this helps!

About how far can one plan to go per day? I can’t picture the distances in a houseboat (I normally travel by canoe). Is it mostly about driving around on Rainy Lake and finding a good spot to tie up? I would love some tips on how to plan a route. We will be there for three nights at the end of June.

It’s a whole different way to experience Voyageurs National Park!

I’d love to go back to Voyageurs someday + this would be such a cool way to get to spend more time there. <3 Love that it's fitted with a small kitchen and grill!

Ha ha – you’re welcome to join my next houseboat adventure but I will put your to work as my First Mate 🙂 Yes, the whole ordering over the radio thing was quite entertaining. One woman called to ask if they could deliver her husband lol!

I know! The whole permit thing was surprising – I can see how it can easily get missed. It’s very much like planning a backpacking trip. You could totally manage it! Yes, the process is more involved than it may seem at first glance. Honestly, I put off my visit for years because I was overwhelmed with where to start. Hopefully this helps you with that so you don’t get stuck like I did!

To my knowledge, alcohol is allowed but obviously it is illegal to be under the influence while driving a boat. But, since you are required to park the boat on shore somewhere each night, you can enjoy a cocktail once you’ve found your spot. I didn’t see and anticipate drunk folks partying in the park. It was very quiet and serene and the park does have quiet hours starting at 10p to encourage everyone to enjoy the sweet sounds of nature!

Awesome! Yes, if you love boats, you will adore houseboating! Hope you are able to give it a try someday!

Thanks for following along on Instagram! I would definitely rent a houseboat in Voyageurs NP again. But, next time I’d visit another part of the park. It’s just so big that it’s impossible to explore even a fraction of it in one visit.

You’re welcome! Hope you have an amazing time at Voyageurs National Park!

Ha ha – I totally get it! It seems like it’d be pretty straightforward but there’s actually quite a bit you need to think about when driving a boat. You should def rent one and give it a try!

As someone who has never been on a boat before, much less a house boat (ferries aside), so this is all incredibly new information! I had no idea so much went into boating…I thought you just turned it on and pressed the gas hahah. Thanks for the reality check – and I kinda want to rent one this summer!

This post is perfect as we are planning to visit Voyageurs National Park this year. I never thought to rent a houseboat but am now intrigued. Thanks for the inspiration!

What an absolute blast! I loved following along your adventure on Instagram. This is sure to be a memorable trip! Would you do it again or was once enough for you?

I’ve been in love with boats for quite some time and something like renting a houseboat sounds like such a perfect idea. It’s good to know that the permit needs to be done ahead of time! Great tips!

I had no idea you need a permit from recreation.gov in addition to the rental itself! (All in all it actually sounds sort of like planning a hiking trip – if I think of it that way I feel confident!) This is a great resource; the process seems more involved than I realized or would have been prepared for otherwise. I’ve talked with my friends about renting a houseboat in Page, AZ, but I think we’re all a little inept when it comes to boats haha. I’m glad they do an orientation and don’t just throw you out there. That’s so fun that they’ll deliver snacks and amenities too! Do you know if they have rules about alcohol? I’m sure they don’t want drunk people driving boats, but at the same time, the house boating pastime in some locations seems like party-boat-central and like it’s not really discouraged?

What a fun adventure. I definitely could use this with the heat wave we’re having.

This sounds like soooo much fun (well…apart from the bugs!)

I have not spent much time in boats, so I guess I would need to be extra careful to listen if we rent one…or be cheeky and tag along with an expert like you. 😉

p.s. It’s kind of funny that everyone would hear your order if you need food on the radio. I wonder if people get embarrassed if you needed to order things like tampons!?

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I Spent 5 Days on a Houseboat In a Remote National Park. Here's What I Learned.

Centuries ago, French Canadian fur trappers dragged heavy canoes over the land and lakes of present-day Voyageurs National Park. On a first-time houseboat journey, the most we lugged was a cooler—but we snared a wealth of solitude, sunsets and laughs.

Julia Sayers Gokhale is the Senior Travel Editor at Midwest Living, where she specializes in traveling the Midwest and sharing its fascinating stories. Based in Des Moines, Iowa, Julia is an avid traveler who has visited more than 25 countries and almost all 50 states. She has spent the last 12 years of her career working across print and digital publications, primarily covering travel, food and lifestyle.

Ackerman + Gruber

A soft breeze rustles tall pines rooted in a slim isthmus; dappled sunshine warms my face. I stare, mesmerized, at dark water lapping at creamy white sand.

“Julia! Pull the rope tighter!” 

My husband’s bellow echoes across the lake, snapping me out of my trance. The tangle of thick blue rope I’ve gathered in my arms has gone slack, sagging in the water. I yank it taut, nodding to my friend Jess on the opposite bank. Heave-ho! In unison we pull our respective ropes, guiding our 44-foot houseboat into the cove. We tie them off at a perfect angle, forming a V-shape leading to the boat, just as we were instructed. As the mother ship motors down, Jess’ husband, Andrew, putters in on our tow-behind fishing boat, and my husband, Ojas, throws out the gangplank. Jess and I high-five: After two days in Voyageurs National Park , we might just be finding our sea legs—or rather, lakes-the-size-of-a-sea legs.

A day prior, we embarked on our journey into the sprawling expanse of this northern Minnesota park. Straddling the Canadian border, Voyageurs takes its name from the French Canadian fur trappers who traversed these waters in canoes crafted from the surrounding birch and cedar forests. They coexisted with the native Chippewa (Ojibwe) tribe, who supplied the voyageurs with boats and taught them the ways of their land. Today, the park encompasses 350 square miles, 500 islands and four main lakes: Rainy, Namakan, Kabetogama and Sand Point. Since one-third of Voyageurs is water, houseboating is the transportation and lodging of choice—and an annual ritual for some Upper Midwesterners. 

Though our trip felt like an ambitious undertaking for a crew with limited boating experience, the folks at Voyagaire Lodge and Houseboats assured us we’d be fine. However, after a whirlwind hour-long orientation that included everything from cranking the generator (don’t leave it running with the doors open) to properly using the toilet (don’t flush it while in motion) and navigating via nautical maps (don’t hit rocks), our dreams of Below Deck luxury quickly turned into visions of Gilligan’s Island.

Ackerman + Gruber

As we cautiously glided out of Crane Lake, leaving civilization and reliable cell service behind, our first challenge loomed immediately ahead: the King Williams Narrows. This slender, serpentine channel winds through sharp rock faces and towering evergreens and is the official entrance to Voyageurs National Park from the south. After a tense five minutes, the passage opened up, spilling us into Sand Point, the smallest of Voyageurs’ major lakes. But small is relative: nearly 9,000 acres, 115 islands and 92 miles of shoreline. (The park’s biggest lake, Rainy, claims 227,604 acres and 929 miles of shoreline.) 

With deep blue water stretching before us and the prospect of adventure ahead, our anxiety melted away. We easily settled into our roles: Ojas as captain, Jess and Andrew on fishing boat and generator duty, and I as navigator. We felt the draw of early summer’s pleasantly chilly water, luring us to jump in. The temptation of each rocky island, begging us to set foot in the solitude. The infinite horizon, whispering just a little farther.

Many of the national park’s sights can only be seen or accessed by water. A houseboat allows you to venture into the depths without worrying about returning to your start point by sunset. That said, in the evenings, houseboats must be secured to land. As a beginner, it’s easiest to head for a designated site (labeled on park maps and offering a sign, a firepit and sometimes a hitching post). But there are also unmarked sites—trickier to spot but with the telltale signs of a safe harbor, often a wide soft beach in a U-shape cove. 

We quickly found that searching for a site brought a new thrill each day. (In peak summer, you want to nab one by 3 p.m.) The first evening, we ventured into a peaceful offshoot of Sand Point Lake called Grassy Bay and eased our houseboat into a secluded cove’s marked spot. The glassy water made for ethereally quiet sunset paddleboarding but also attracted hordes of bugs. The second day’s breezy unmarked site in Namakan Lake was plopped in the middle of a cluster of islands in Blind Pig Channel. We took our smaller boat for a zip around the neighborhood, clambering up pine needle-laden trails and slippery rocks for long-range views. At other sites on the edge of the mainland, we explored unbounded, carving trails up cliffs and through boreal forests. 

We spent the days island-hopping, plunging off the side (and slide) of the boat, slow cruising, lounging in inflatables and visiting the park’s attractions. (Though we didn’t fish, many houseboaters also wrangle walleye, bass and perch.) Our route often skirted the border with Canada—Sand Point, Namakan and Rainy are split down the middle between the two countries. You can’t dock on the Canadian side, so we stuck to the southern half of the lakes. 

Moose, gray wolves, lynx and black bears all inhabit the park, but our big wildlife encounters were a turtle on the trail, swarms of moths and mosquitoes on our boat, and a prerecorded wolf howl signaling trivia over the radio. Voyagaire requires all houseboats to stay tuned in to a shared channel for morning weather alerts and other pertinent information. You can also use the radio to request help or page the company’s “room service with a wake.” Place your order for things like burgers, snacks, soda, ice or fuel, and Blackhawk—a modern voyageur, some might say—will track you down later in his speedboat and deliver the goods. But beware everyone on the channel can hear you. Nothing shatters the perception of seclusion like another houseboat calling in about a clogged toilet.

On our last evening, with the winds whipping up and lightning flashing in the distance, our radio crackled to life for trivia. We huddled around the transmitter in our tiny “living room,” answering questions about northern Minnesota and Voyageurs. Though the darkness outside the windows said otherwise, we didn’t feel quite so alone as we traded jokes with other boats, all scattered across miles and miles of inky black lakes. As Blackhawk quipped his characteristic “Blackhawk out” and the radio clicked off, a loon trilled outside. We’d leave tomorrow morning, but for one last night, we’d relish the sounds of nature, the gentle rocking of the water—and the fact that not a single bug had made it into our boat that night.

What to Know as a First-Time Houseboater

Consult a map when choosing a rental company.

With Voyagaire , you can explore Sand Point, Namakan and Kabetogama lakes, but it’s a long journey to visit them all. Ebel’s is convenient to Namakan and Kabetogama. If you rent from an outfitter on Rainy Lake, you’ll stay on that one (vast!) body of water; only smaller boats can portage to the other lakes. Most companies require a minimum stay, often three nights.

Plan for Hidden Costs

Think insurance, fuel, linens and a nightly $15 park permit. Also, the Coast Guard requires a tow-behind boat; if you don’t bring one, you’ll be renting. The cheapest choice is a small outboard fishing boat. 

Go With Friends or Family

There are no docks at houseboat sites and the process to safely secure the boat requires a minimum of three able-bodied adults; we were thankful to have four.

Remember, It's Not the Ritz

You’ll have hot water and appliances (and usually a gas grill on deck), but set your expectations low on luxury. On our boat, warm showers were spotty, and food stayed colder in our ice-filled Yeti than the freezer. We grilled more than cooking on the little indoor stove. And if you end up in a heat wave, most boats don't have AC on board, so things get stuffy quick.

Use a Navigation App

Download the Navionics app and sign up for a two-week free trial the night before your trip. It’s like Google Maps for the water. (We found our docking sites on Voyagaire’s printed maps but used Navionics to track our position, see water depth and avoid obstacles.) Buoys also help to designate where you are and which direction you should be going.

You Won't Get Anywhere Fast

Houseboats move slow—real slow. To cover a lot of ground, detach and explore in the tow-behind boat. The baseline fishing boats don't go much faster, but they're more nimble and easier to tie up to islands.

Beware of Bugs

Bugs are a huge factor, especially in early summer. Use hardcore repellent, consider a hat with a bug shield and check for ticks each evening if you hike.

The Most Important Thing to Pack?

A sense of adventure. Houseboating has quirks and hassles, but when you see a lake bathed in rose gold at sunset or the Milky Way stretched across the sky at midnight, you’ll know it’s worth it.

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Voyageurs National Park - Houseboats Rentals

Presented below are the houseboats available for rent at Voyageurs National Park. Click on any houseboat for complete information. You can also call us toll-free at 888-454-8825 or select Request Info to submit a request for assistance. We will be happy to answer all of your questions.

• Displaying 1-24 of 24 results
• Length: High to Low
• Length: Low to High

36' Suncruiser 360 Deluxe Houseboat

• Voyagaire Lodge and Houseboats
• 1 Full Bathroom

36' Suncruiser 360 Houseboat

• 1 Full bathroom

36' Voyageur Class Houseboat

• Ebel's Voyageurs Marina

42' Voyageur Houseboat

44' Sportcruiser 440 Deluxe Houseboat

Discover the simple pleasure of life on the water with the Sportcruiser 440 Deluxe Houseboat. At 44 feet, it's a floating haven that sleeps 8 comfortably. Two separate rooms, including a private stateroom and a unique penthouse, provide ample living space. Sleep soundly on two full-sized beds, a convertible dinette, or a pull-out couch. A full bathroom ensures privacy and convenience. Enjoy the practicality of a 9 cubic feet fridge and ...

44' Sportcruiser 440 Hot Tub Houseboat

44' Sportcruiser 440 Houseboat

44' Vista Class Houseboat

44' Voyageur Houseboat

44' Voyageur Plus Houseboat

46' Sunseeker 460 Houseboat

47' Voyageur Houseboat

50' Voyageur Houseboat

51' Vista Class 2 Bedroom Houseboat

• 2 Full Bathrooms

51' Vista Class 3 Bedroom Houseboat

53' Sunseeker 530 Houseboat

54' Sunseeker 540 Houseboat

54' Voyageur Plus Houseboat

55' Voyagaire 550 Houseboat

57' Sunseeker 570 Houseboat

Set sail on the 57' Sunseeker 570 Houseboat. This floating refuge can accommodate up to 12 passengers, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or close-knit group outings. With two private penthouse staterooms and six comfortable double beds, this houseboat ensures a good night's sleep for all. The boat features two full bathrooms, providing the conveniences of home while on the water. In addition, the Sunseeker 570 comes ...

60' Yatzia 600 Houseboat

• 2 full bathrooms

Experience the unparalleled serenity of water living on the 60' Voyagaire 600 Houseboat. With the capacity to comfortably accommodate 12, this sizable vessel is designed for shared stories and laughter. It sleeps twelve, featuring two private staterooms, one semi-private lower berth, and an array of queen beds and sleepers. Two full bathrooms ensure privacy and comfort, while the inclusion of two full-size refrigerators and electric ...

61' Vista Class Houseboat

63' Northern Belle 630 Houseboat

• 2 full baths

Escape from the ordinary on the 63' Voyagaire 630 Houseboat. This floating haven isn't just a boat, it's a floating destination for up to 12 guests, providing the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories. With four private staterooms, each furnished with a queen-sized bed, comfort is assured. Additional guests? No problem, two queen sofa sleepers and a queen convertible dinette are at your disposal, ensuring everyone has a ...

65' Series Houseboat

• 3 Full Bathrooms

WHOA, WHAT A VIEW!

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VOYAGEURS NATIONAL PARK: Houseboat Trip of a Lifetime

Voyageurs National Park  may not be the most widely-known of national parks, but in my opinion, it is right up there as one of the most beautiful. And the best way to experience it? On a houseboat ! The memories you’ll create on this trip are sure to last a lifetime.

Did you know Voyageurs is America’s youngest and only water-based national park?

Covering more than 340 square miles in north central Minnesota on the Canadian border with Ontario, Voyageurs features pristine lakes that are essentially interconnected waterways.

Travel Itinerary

Where to rent a houseboat

The largest fleet of houseboat rentals is at Voyagaire Lodge and Houseboats on Crane Lake.

They offer 5 different houseboat types – from basic to luxury – that accommodate up to 12 people. Some even have huge hot tubs on the roofs, and waterslides off the back.

So, yeah, I guess those features would definitely put this in the “glamping” category. Well, that and the air conditioning, running water, bathroom, full kitchen, and comfy beds, too!

The minimum rental length is 3 nights , which is what my group went with. I think 4 to 5 would be ideal though.

The best part, I think, about renting from Voyagaire is they provide 24/7 boat-lodge radio communication . So, if you run out of food, pop, ice, bait or gas they’ll make deliveries (for a one-time fee)!

The Voyagaire staff is a wealth of knowledge for the hottest fishing spots. Additionally, they provide a map that shows the color-coded and numbered buoys of the park to help you navigate. Plus, downloading something like the Navionics Boating Marine & Lakes app is a must for your adventure.

If Voyagaire’s boats are all booked, there are a handful of other rental places in Voyageurs like Ebel’s , Rainy Lake Houseboats , and Northernaire .

A smaller boat needed too

Per Coast Guard rules, you need to tow another smaller boat with a motor behind the houseboat. You can bring your own boat or rent one from Voyagaire .

The extra boat – whether it is a fishing boat, runabout or pontoon – is actually a nice thing to have, too, because it allows you to cruise around to find fishing spots quicker and into small, secluded bays. Plus, you can more quickly locate an ideal spot to pull up your houseboat to camp each night.

Voyageurs houseboat trip camping tips

Houseboat campsites in Voyageurs are on a first come, first serve basis. Ideally, you’ll probably want to claim your campsite late afternoon each day , especially in the prime summer season. Otherwise, you’ll spend a lot of time cruising around trying to find an open site.

Voyageurs is made up of four large lakes and more than two dozen smaller ones. There are also hundreds of uninhabited islands. So, I think choosing a different campsite each night you’re in the park is a fun way to go. Or, return to the same one each night if you find one you love. Note: All tent campsites, however, within Voyageurs National Park require a reservation fee and nightly amenity fees.

Memorable places to stop

The Kettle Falls Hotel  is the only lodging in Voyageurs and is a unique place to pull in to visit. It’s only accessible by boat or float plane. Built between 1910 and 1913, the hotel has a ton of rich history.

Be sure to grab a bite to eat at the restaurant, or a cold drink at the bar with a very crooked floor!

Another place to stop is one of the many hiking trails in Voyageurs . For example, the Anderson Bay Trail brings you to a rocky cliff with a breathtaking view of Rainy Lake; it is well worth the approx. 2 hour roundtrip hike.

A much shorter, 20-minute hike is on Little American Island . This, too, is an historical spot thanks to gold being discovered there in the 1890s. During a brief tour of the island, you’ll see mine shafts and machinery that still remain there.

What to look out for in Voyageurs

Keep your eyes open for a wide variety of wildlife in Voyageurs including loons, deer, bald eagles, and maybe even black bears and moose.

Thanks to its desolate location, you may be able to see Northern Lights at night. Or, if that’s not spotted, you’ll certainly be able to see the Milky Way, satellites, and shootings stars as you gaze up at the expansive night sky.

“ God made two great lights—the greater light to govern the day and the lesser light to govern the night. He also made the stars .” – GENESIS 1:16

Don’t wait to book your Voyageurs houseboat trip!

My advice if you’re thinking you’d like to experience the amazing wonders of Voyageurs on a houseboat is to book NOW! Reservations fill up fast , sometimes well over a year in advance.

This is likely because the number of boats are limited, and the season is short. For example, on average the water is only warm enough to swim in from mid-June to Labor Day .

I hope you get to experience a Voyageurs house boat vacation at least once in your life. You’ll never forget it!

Pin this Voyageurs houseboat trip for later!

More ideas for voyageurs houseboat trip..

What do YOU recommend? Please include your Voyageurs tips in the comments section below ! 

And, be sure to follow  “Whoa, What a View” on social media  to see the comments other travelers are leaving there about their favorite parts of Voyageurs. 

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• June 1, 2021

All tent campsites within Voyageurs National Park require a reservation fee and nightly amenity fees.

Thanks for the info! I’ll add that to my post!

• Retirestyle Travel
• October 31, 2021

That is such a great way to explore this park. It would be amazing to sleep in a new bay each night and explore new shorelines.

• November 1, 2021

I hope you get an opportunity to try it out during your travels!

• Stephen & Andie

“Voyageurs is America’s youngest and only water-based national park..” THAT is a super-interesting fact – thanks for enlightening! This looks like such an amazing and unique experience. AND there’s a possibility of seeing Northern Lights??? BONUS!

Yes! I love that fun fact too! Plus, seeing Northern Lights is indeed something you just have to see at least once in your life! SO neat!

• Colin and Mitch - Very Tasty World

What spectacular scenery! How great that they have designated this area a National Park. A houseboat looks like the perfect way to explore, and it’s lovely that you are able to moor up and go walking as well.

A National Park unlike any other when you explore it via houseboat! Hope you get a chance to try it sometime!

I’ve never done a houseboat stay and it’s something that now intrigues me. The idea of being able to just up anchor and sail wherever you want to is appealing. The solitude among the wildlife scenes would be so peaceful too.

It truly is an experience unlike any other. The solitude and beauty of the area is second to none too. I especially loved the hot tub on the roof of our houseboat! :)

• Paul ( Paul Explores the World)
• November 7, 2021

Voyageurs is on my NP bucket list but this makes me want to go even more! I’m assuming you need a boating license? Also, extra props for calling it pop lol

No boating license needed, Paul, as an adult. Just a valid driver’s license. Yeah, “pop” is the Midwesterner coming out in me! :)

• November 14, 2021

House boat never knew that was a thing, but they look really cool.

• November 15, 2021

It’s the coolest. Grab some friends and book a trip! You’ll love it. Lake Powell or a few lakes in the Ozarks are popular for houseboats too.

• January 9, 2022

This sounds like such a cool national park to visit and rent a houseboat. It really should be more known, because this sounds like a cool experience and place to visit overall.

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For those who want to seriously buff up their Trailmakers experience. DLC and cosmetic packs galore! Space Voyager Pack Expand your space-experience with the Space Voyager Pack containing two functional blocks and a bunch of Sci-Fi looking cosmetic items for that genuine outer-space feel. Blocks Space Fighter Cockpit Rocket Engine 4x Antenna Blocks 3x Greeble Blocks Decals Glow Decal Pack containing 18 decals Block Skins Glowing Grid Hexagon Character Customization Star Fighter Outfit Space Pirate Outfit Astronaut Outfit Space Pirate Helmet Astronaut Helmet Rescue Pack You’ve built cars, airplanes, spaceships, boats, and everything in between. Now get ready to be a hero with the new Trailmakers Rescue Pack. Dress the part of one of modern society’s everyday heroes. Blocks Tail Propeller Large Stabilizer Dinghy Side Block Dinghy Corner Block Ship Keel Ship Bow Emergency Light Signal Flare Fire Truck Siren Decals 18 rescue themed decals Character Customization Firefighter Outfit High Vis Outfit Thief Outfit Police Officer Outfit Thief Hat Hard Hat Firefighter Hat Police Hat Airborne: Our most popular expansion to date! In this mission-based campaign you will navigate a brand new Trailmakers-world with deserts, mountains, and beautiful floating islands. The local Chirpo population will grant you increasingly challenging quests as you progress deeper into the dangerous Robot Pirate territory. Blocks Large Cockpit Passenger Seat Airplane Window Large Propeller Rocket Thruster Large Jet Landing Wheels Short Helicopter Blade Long Helicopter Blade Chirpo Trophy (Rewarded for beating the Airborne Campaign) Character Customization Chirpo Head Mechanic (Male and Female) Modern Pilot (Male and Female) Vintage Pirate (Male and Female) Chirpo Outfit Airforce Helmet Vintage Airforce Helmet Sunglasses High Seas: Take to the seas and dive headfirst into a new Trailmakers experience, with our completely revamped physics-based system for weather - the wind and waves in High Seas will challenge your skills like never before! Features A large new map with four new islands to explore 100+ hidden treasures to collect Secret locations to uncover A brand new weather system with wind and wave physics Blocks Blocks Crow’s Nest Mast Outboard Boat Engine Gunpowder Cannon 5x Sail Blocks Ship’s Lantern Singing Parrot Sea Shanty Gramophone Bell Skin Pack: With this block skin pack, you will unlock five new skins that can be applied to blocks in Trailmakers to alter their appearance: Stone Chrome Glow Camouflage Wood Skin Pack 2: Even more skins for your blocks! Gooey High Tech Non-Slip Rivets It is still possible to change the color of blocks that have these skins equipped - so you can get the slimy gooey skin the color you want, or the change the scales on your dragon build, for instance. Decal Action Pack: The Action Pack unlocks four new categories with a total of 50 awesome new decals. The Action Pack is full of everything from signs, bullet holes, racing stripes to aircraft dashboard dials. Give your builds character by adding authentic battle damage, or technical details! Contains 50x decals with bullet holes, burn marks, dashboards, panels, racing stripes, and so so so so much more. Decal Expression Pack: The Decal Expression Pack unlocks two new categories of decals with a total of 28 awesome decals. The Expression Pack is full of mouths and eyes, so now you can finally build that shark-toothed horse you have been dreaming of. Contains x28 expressive decals.

Published by

Developed by, release date, playable on.

• Xbox Series X|S

Capabilities

• Online co-op (2-8)
• Online multiplayer (2-8)
• Single player

Compare editions

Trailmakers: Booster Edition

Games included

Add-ons included.

Trailmakers: Rescue Bundle

Trailmakers: Deluxe Edition

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