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Dale Hollow Lake - Frequently Asked Questions

Presented below are frequently asked questions about houseboat rentals and houseboating on Dale Hollow Lake. If you need additional assistance, please contact us toll-free at 888-454-8825 or click here to submit a request for more guidance. Our friendly and knowledgeable Houseboat Rental Agents are always happy to help.

Houseboating season typically runs April through October. Summer (between Memorial Day and Labor Day) is the most popular and is the busiest season. View a month-by-month list of temperatures here: Average Temperatures.


Houseboats that depart from Sunset Marina:

  • Maximum capacities are set by the Department of Fish and Wildlife
  • 8 people on the 50' Family Cruiser
  • 10 people on the Mid-Size Cruiser Houseboat
  • 12 people on the 74-foot Flagship

To rent from Sunset Marina, the renter must be at least 21 years of age with a valid drivers' license.


Pets are not allowed on houseboats from the Sunset Marina


All Tennessee boat rental clients who intend to operate the rental boats (MUST BE 18 or older) are required to acquire a Boat Rental Safety Certificate prior to the rental date. A certificate must be presented at check in. To acquire the certificate, please take the course at https://www.rentalboatsafety.com.


The cost of a houseboat vacation is based on a few variables: what time of year you plan to visit, what size of houseboat, how long of a trip, etc. See the Pricing Page for more details


Generally, people reserve about 6 months in advance. But it's always a good idea to make a reservation as soon as you're ready, especially if you have specific dates in mind or if you're planning a trip over a holiday weekend or on a special promotion.


Give us a call at 888-454-8825. Our reservation agents are happy to check availability or confirm your vacation.

Alternatively, you may Contact Us Online with your availability request, and one of our agents will get back to you with the information you need.


Houseboats that depart from Sunset Marina:

To reserve:

  • Full payment is due at booking including a 3% service fee
  • A $100 booking fee will be applied to certain dates in May - September

Cancellations:

  • More than 90 day notice: forfeit $375
  • 60 – 90 day notice: forfeit $562.50
  • Less than 60 day notice will result in a forfeit of full balance paid. ($0 refunded)
  • Change Fee: $50

Basics such as cookware and serve-ware (pots, plans, plates, glasses, utensils, etc.) come equipped on the houseboat. You are responsible for bringing all of your food, beverages, and spices down to salt and pepper.

More specifics can be accessed on the houseboat page under Amenities and Items Provided. There will also be more included in the attachments of your confirmation email.


Fuel is not included in the houseboat rental. Like a rental car, you'll pick up the houseboat full and you'll be responsible for the final refueling at the end of your trip to pay for what you've used.

Typically, we recommend that you budget about $100 per day for fuel. Of course, it may be more or less based on how much you drive the houseboat each day and how much you run the generator.


Sunset Marina

  • Blankets and pillows are provided on houseboat rentals from Sunset Marina.
  • You will need to provide your own sheets, pillow cases, and towels.

For houseboats departing from Sunset Marina:

  • You may pick up the houseboat between 4pm, and it is not due back at the marina until 10am on your final day.

*Sunset Marina operates on a set schedule:

  • 3 night weekend rentals: Friday-Monday
  • 4 night rentals: Monday - Friday
  • 7 night rentals: Monday - Monday or Friday - Friday

Please make prior arrangements with the marina if you are to arrive later than 6pm. The marina staff will expect your arrival so you can load the houseboat and sleep on it that night in the marina, then go through the check in and orientation process the next morning before you go out on the water.


See our Map/Directions page to view a map and directions to the Dale Hollow Lake area.

Sunset Marina and Resort

2040 Sunset Dock Road, Monroe TN 38573

*The above addresses are for driving directions only. Do not mail payments to these addresses


You will want to come fully prepared with all groceries as there are no grocery or restaurant opportunities along the lake.

Each marina has a small marina store stocked with limited convenience items and ice.

 


Yes! Fishing is great at Dale Hollow Lake!

There are a variety of fish found in these waters including: Smallmouth Bass, Lake Trout, Kentucky Muskie, as well as Largemouth Bass, Walleye, Crappie and Catfish.

A Tennessee state fishing license is required and will allow you to fish anywhere on Dale Hollow Lake. Be sure to purchase a license Online before you arrive at the marina.


Seasickness is very uncommon on fresh water because the lake is mostly calm and houseboats are wider and more stable than smaller boats. However, if you get sick easily we recommend that you take necessary precautions.