Presented below are frequently asked questions about houseboat rentals and houseboating on Rainy 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 is typically from mid-May through September. 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.
The maximum capacity on any houseboat is 12 people. This is a regulation set by the Coast Guard.
To rent from Rainy Lake Houseboats, the renter must be at least 21 years of age with a valid drivers’ license.
Pets are allowed for a $60 non-refundable pet fee per pet. REQUIRED: you must bring a pet carrier for sleeping in, and a leash for tie up on property.
There is no special licensing or prior experience required to operate these houseboat rentals; just a valid drivers' license. The marina staff will go over operations and regulations in an orientation upon your arrival.
Marina staff will also pilot you in and out of the marina itself; you'll take over on open water.
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 our Pricing Page for more details.
Voyageurs National Park / Rainy Lake requires overnight permits for each night of your houseboat vacation. You Must purchase a National Park - Overnight Houseboat Permit for $10 per night ONLINE prior to arrival: https://www.recreation.gov/permits/251977. Prices are subject to change and will be noted when you purchase your permit.
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.
Rainy Lake Houseboats
To reserve:
Cancellations: (all houseboats except Lady of the Lake*)
*Lady of the Lake Cancellations:
Less than 120 days notice: forfeit any monies paid
Northernaire Houseboats:
To reserve:
Cancellations: (must be in writing)
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.
Linens are not included with the houseboat rental. Feel free to bring your own bed linens and bath towels.
*Linen packages available at the marina for $11 (includes a set of sheets, blanket, a pillow with case, and towel.)
**Except Lady of the Lake Houseboat: linens are included on this houseboat only
You may pick up the houseboat between 12-2pm, and it is not due back at the marina until 9am on your final day.
Please make prior arrangements with the marina if you are to arrive later than 5pm. 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.
Yes, a small watercraft is required with all houseboat rentals as a safety precaution. A 16’ Lund Fishing Boat (no motor) is included with your houseboat rental. You may rent a motor from the marina for an extra cost or you are welcome to bring your own.
See our rental options: Watercraft Rentals
Rainy Lake is located on the northern tip of Minnesota near the Ontario border. See our Map & Directions page to view a map and directions to the Rainy Lake area.
Rainy Lake Houseboats
2031 County Rd 102*, International Falls, MN 56649
*Some GPS devices may pull up the old address: 2031 Town Rd 488
*The above address is for driving directions only. Do not mail payments to this address
The nearest grocery stores are located in International Falls, MN about 10 miles away from the marina.
The marina has a marina store stocked with limited convenience items and ice.
You will want to come fully prepared with all groceries as there are no grocery or restaurant opportunities along the lake.
Yes! There is fishing at Rainy Lake! There are a variety of fish found in these waters including: Walleye, Crappie, Muskie, Northern Pike, Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, among others.
A Minnesota fishing license is required to fish on Rainy Lake. Purchase a Minnesota license online here: Minnesota Fishing License. If you are traveling to and fishing in Canadian waters, you will also need an Ontario fishing license as well as a Remote Area Border Crossing Permit (obtained through Canadian Customs.) Purchase an Ontario license online here: Ontario Fishing License.
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.
