The St Johns River, FL is an experience unlike any other; where life is laid back and at your own pace. It's also one of the few locations you can houseboat year-round.

The St Johns borders the Ocala National Forest, the shoreline of which will never be developed, so you can enjoy the natural wonders of this area for years to come. From pine to palm trees, oak to cypress, and swamp to marshes, the St Johns' ecosystem is a wonder to behold. Experiencing it by houseboat is a must.

Your houseboat adventure begins at the full-service Holly Bluff Marina, in Deland, Florida located in Volusia County. Take your houseboat either north or south of the Holly Bluff Marina near Deland: up to 30 miles north of the marina to Silver Glen Springs, or up to 20 miles south to Lake Monroe Bridge in Sanford.

Wildlife is abundant, and not things you generally see every day. Bird life: blue herons, egrets, osprey, eagles, and sandhill cranes. Spot turtles sunning on a log, and keep your eyes peeled for alligators.

The St Johns is a well known fishing haven as well. Common catches are crappie, catfish, perch, flounder, sea trout, and bass. Throw your catch straight onto the outdoor grill for a fish fry - now that's fresh!

One of the most sought out destinations along the St Johns is Blue Springs State Park, just 30 minutes south of Holly Bluff Marina by houseboat. Here, large but gentle West Indian Manatees (aka Florida Manatees) come to spend their winters in the warm spring waters between October and April.

Silver Glen Springs is another must-visit area, especially for houseboaters. It's 30 miles north of the marina on the southern end of Lake George (the second largest lake in Florida.) The spring stays at a constant 72 degrees year round, making it a great place for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. It's one of the few places to swim along the St Johns.

Questions? Ready to start planning? Give us a call at 888-454-8825 or send an Online Request and an agent will reach out to you.

Check out the following video from Forest to Sea Adventures about their experience on a St Johns River houseboat!

Video Highlights:

- Houseboat tour of the 53' Serenity Houseboat (0:34)

- Blue Springs State Park Manatees (3:55)

- Securing the houseboat - tie up/anchor (8:56)

- Christmas Boat Parade (2nd Saturday in December) - (12:55)