The Lake Shasta houseboat experience is relaxing, with little to do all day but swim, cruise around exploring the lake's many coves, read, play games or take a nap. It's not a good choice for anyone who likes to be on the go all the time, but it's a nice change of pace if you want to slow down for a while.
Anytime is nice to be out in a Lake Shasta houseboat, but the area is busiest June through August. The weather is best in September. For smooth water and less people, go in December or January.
If you've never houseboated before, read our novice's houseboating guide to learn more about it.
Lake Shasta Houseboat Rental Facts
- You can rent a Lake Shasta houseboat for 3 days up to a week.
- Lake Shasta houseboat rentals range from 43 to 75 feet, with room for 6 to 16 people. If that sounds like a lot of folks in a small space, it may be. On some models, the roof is also a place for people to hang out, and some like to sleep up there, too. Nevertheless, a Lake Shasta houseboat vacation should only be taken with people you can get along with in close quarters.
- You'll get a houseboat equipped with a range, refrigerator, propane grill, kitchen utensils and dishes, a heater, and a bathroom with toilet and shower. The largest houseboats will have more amenities such as big-screen televisions, private rooms and hot tubs.
- If you want to have a bonfire on shore at Lake Shasta, you'll need a permit, which you can get when you rent your boat.
- Worried about safety? You might fall overboard, but a Lake Shasta houseboat is supposedly almost impossible to sink.
Lake Shasta Houseboat Rental Costs
- Rental rates vary by season, boat size and amenitieis. You'll pay the highest rates June through August, mid-level rates in September and less the rest of the year.
- Fuel is not included in the rental price, and neither are taxes.
- At first glance, a Lake Shasta houseboat rental seems very expensive. Before you dismiss it, calculate the cost per person (or family) per night, taking into account that you will be cooking rather than eating out. You may be surprised how affordable it is.
- The average houseboat renter spends about $60 per day for fuel.
- Expect to pay a deposit of several hundred dollars when you make a reservation, along with an extra damage deposit ($500 to $2,000). The full rental fee will be due about 45 to 60 days before you arrive, and you must cancel at least 30 days in advance or you'll forfeit it all.
Lake Shasta Houseboat Rental Companies
You'll find plenty of companies offering houseboat rentals on Lake Shasta. On the low end, you'll get a clean, well-supplied, basic boat that sleeps six. High-end boats sleep up to 16, and have swim platforms, slides, roof-top sundecks (some with hot tubs), DVD players, satellite TV and satellite radio, private bedrooms and faux fireplaces.- Antlers Resort
- Holiday Harbor Resort
- Packers Bay Marina
- Shasta Lake Resorts: At Jones Valley Resort, Sugarloaf Resort and Lakeview Marina
- Shasta Marina
- Seven Crown Resorts: At Bridge Bay Resort and Digger Bay Marina
- Silverthorn Resort
