Presented below are frequently asked questions about houseboat rentals and houseboating on St. Johns River. 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.
It's always a good time to go houseboating! Summer (between Memorial Day and Labor Day) is the most popular and is the busiest season. However, fall offers Indian Summer days with cooler nights. View a month-by-month list of temperatures here: Average Temperatures
The maximum capacity on any houseboat is up to 12 people at all times. This is a regulation set by the Coast Guard.
To rent from Holly Bluff Marina, the renter must be at least 25 years of age with a valid drivers' license.
Anyone Born After January 1, 1988 Must Take a Boating Safety Course. Click Here For Boating Safety Course.
Up to two small pets are allowed for $15 per day. Pets must weigh less than 35 lbs each.
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 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.
To reserve:
Cancellations:
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 included on all houseboat rentals. This includes:
You may pick up the houseboat as early as 1pm, and it is not due back at the marina until 4pm on your final day.
Holly Bluff Marina operates on a set schedule:
Please make arrangements with the marina if you are to arrive after 5pm. The marina staff can leave your name and houseboat number on the office door with information about where it's docked.
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.
No, the houseboats must be picked up and returned at Holly Bluff Marina.
The Holly Bluff Marina does not offer any daily watercraft rentals. However, fishing boats may be rented through Moonlighting Boat Rentals in the area. Reach them at: 386-801-3945
The St John's River is located in north eastern Florida, the marina only 35 minutes southwest of Daytona Beach. See our Map/Directions page to view a map and directions to the St John's River area.
Holly Bluff Marina
2280 Hontoon Rd, DeLand FL 32720
*The above address is for driving directions only. Do not mail payments to this address
The nearest grocery store, Winn-Dixie, is about 6 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 opportunities along the river.
See the following article for more information on where to go and what to do along the river:
Yes! Fishing is great on the St John's River!
There are a variety of fish found in these waters including: Crappie, Catfish, Perch, Flounder, Sea Trout and Bass.
A Florida state freshwater fishing license is required and will allow you to fish anywhere on the St John's River. Be sure to purchase a license online ahead of time.
Seasickness is very uncommon as houseboats are wider and more stable than smaller boats. However, if you get sick easily we recommend that you take necessary precautions.
