The metropolitan city of Seattle has had a long history of logging and shipbuilding. Houseboats were originally intended to house loggers who worked by the water. Over time, they were also adopted by wealthier residents for their summer homes. Many of these historic houseboats have been lovingly preserved and this list sets out some options open for rental. If you’re looking for an Airbnb vacation rental in the form of a unique houseboat, please keep reading.
1. Modern houseboat on Lake Union (from USD 99)
With eggshell yellow wallets and a navy blue trim, this houseboat makes a charming sight. The inside is clean and modern, with a cheerful natural wood finish and a customized bamboo flooring. With one large double bed, it’s perfect for two guests. Your host has also recently installed insulation to ensure guests stay warm and comfortable even in the chilly winters. The wide-screen television is also equipped with Netflix and Amazon Prime and a surround sound speaker. Location wise, the houseboat is located on Lake Union and using your host’s kayak, you’ll have a fantastic time paddling over the lake and visiting the parks and restaurants nearby.
Modern Houseboat on Lake Union!!Seattle, Washington, United StatesTop guest reviews
Cleanliness:
It is maintained very well and clean.It was clean.It had everything you needed, was well taken care of, clean, and modern.Read more reviewsLocation:
Not really what I had expected to be doing at a place I rented -Otherwise the place was as advertised.The location can’t be beat!
2. Floating retreat in heart of Seattle (from USD 300)
This spacious houseboat accommodates three. Reviewed glowingly on the television shows House Hunters and Tiny Houses, you know you’re in for a great experience. There is one queen bed on the upper deck, plus a futon and air mattress. As you wander through the houseboat, you’re sure to notice some incredible art pieces designed by a local artist who lives in the same marina. The cozy lounge is perfect for hanging out with your traveling companions, especially with its projection system with NetFlix, Hulu and HBO subscriptions. Meanwhile, the full kitchen offers a wide range of appliances. On the deck, there is also a propane grill and griddle plus bistro chairs and a table for outdoor dining.
Romantic Lakeside Seattle HouseboatSeattle, Washington, United StatesTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
Very comfortable bed!The bed and couch were so comfy, and we loved the hammock.Bed was very comfortable and so was the shower/bathroom.Cleanliness:
Everything was clean and comfortable.It was clean, comfortable and fully stocked with supplies.Clean, quiet, and very comfortable.Host:
Michelle thoughtfully left out coffee and even champagne for us to enjoy as we arrived.We love being able to access the kayaks.My wife and I enjoyed it very much.Read more reviewsLocation:
Location couldn't be beat!The location is very convenient.The entire place is so well taken care of.
3. Sugar Shack Houseboat on Lake Union (from USD 99)
This green houseboat with crimson trim is as lovely inside as it looks outside. The interior is furnished in a delightful vintage style, with plenty of bright colors and warm wood textures. As there is only one double bed, the houseboat sleeps just two and is very cozy for couples. The bathroom may be small but is clean and modern. From the upper deck, you can even spot the iconic Space Needle! Your host also offers use of two bicycles and kayak so you can get some exercise while exploring the area.
Sugar Shack Houseboat on Lake UnionSeattle, Washington, United StatesTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
Comfiest bed and bedding.The bed is so comfortable!we totally understood the head, shower and stove.Cleanliness:
Took no time at all to get used to living on the water.Very comfortable, clean, with unique touches of home.The windows throughout the boat are kept crystal clean.Read more reviewsHost:
I would definitely stay with Gretchen again.He loved it!It made me laugh aloud many times actually.
4. Rutabaga Houseboat (from USD 275)
The Rutabaga stands out from afar, with its extra tall deck that translates to a high ceilinged second level. Constructed in the 1980s, your hosts have largely preserved this traditional Seattle house barge design. The houseboat sleeps four persons with its queen bed plus a sleeper sofa. As your host provides an extra air mattress, up to four other overnight guests are allowed too. Another bonus is the use of three kayaks for free. These can bring you to the café at the marina which serves fresh coffee and refreshing cold beers.
Rutabaga HouseboatSeattle, Washington, United StatesTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
We loved seeing the space needle from the bed.Kitchen was darling and the bathroom wasn’t as intimidating as I though.While thought i would feel the shaking during the night i really didn't (and bed was comfortable).Cleanliness:
Could have been cleaner, but I think this is something they could easily correct and you'll enjoy your stay.The houseboat was clean, updated, and had every amenity we could want.The houseboat was clean and had everything we needed to enjoy a nice night.Host:
It was where we spent most of our time onboard.I probably wouldn't recommend staying with more than 2-3 people.Thank you so much for everything.Read more reviewsLocation:
This was the perfect place to stay.It’s a great place to stay, you’ll love it.What a great place.
5. The Ginger Houseboat (from USD 69)
It’s hard to find a houseboat as spacious as this! The Ginger has two full bedrooms, each containing a queen bed. With the extra sofa bed in the living room area, six guests can sleep here with no trouble. Additionally, you have a large open concept kitchen with stove, refrigerator, utensils and staples for cooking. The bathroom is bright and clean, and you can also use a dryer and washer to do laundry if your clothes get wet from sports on the lake. Your host also offers use of a propane barbecue pit on the deck, and three kayaks for rent.
Ginger HouseboatSeattle, Washington, United StatesTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
WiFi did not connect for us, but we expected that.We liked the rooftop & the bed was comfortable except for the sofa bed.My 13 y/o daughter loved sleeping in the loft bed!Cleanliness:
Super clean, well-decorated and very well-kept.It was just as the pictures showed, and very clean.Very clean and bright, nothing like being on the water.Read more reviewsHost:
Bring your own TV, as there isn’t one.Keys very fiddly though- watch out for this.And what a show it was!!!
6. Turnip Houseboat (from USD 95)
This houseboat is definitely as quaint and quirky as its name. Its design bears similarities to the junk boats of Asia and its simple wood exterior is adorned with cheerful red and yellow paint. Top all this off with an eye-catching, red door and you can surely spot if from afar. Inside, there is an eclectic mix of vintage furniture. With one queen size bed, a sleeper sofa and a little nook with mattresses, it sleeps four guests and is fantastic for families. The bathroom features a unique bath which you can soak in, simple basin and toilet.
Quarky Turnip HouseboatSeattle, Washington, United StatesTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
We had trouble getting out of bed, didn’t want to move.Beds were very comfortable.Bed is very comfy.Cleanliness:
Everything was clean, well labeled, and taken care of.Everything was clean.Could have been cleaner - sheets were worn.Read more reviewsHost:
Overall, it was exactly what we were looking for.We found the place and were able to get in easily.Highly recommend in every way.
7. Jicama Houseboat (from USD 99)
The Jicama Houseboat is available for a total of six guests. Inside there are two double beds in a cozy bedroom, plus a sofa bed and air mattress. The entire space is airy and bright, with many windows to let the sunlight in. A large open concept kitchen offers use of a full stove, refrigerator and microwave. Moored in South Lake Union, you’ll have an incredible view of the water and downtown Seattle in the distance.
Jicama HouseboatSeattle, Washington, United StatesTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
Beds upstairs were cozy.Broken table in living roomThe lofted beds were able to accommodate two people each, and were very comfortable.Cleanliness:
Safe and very clean!The home fit the 6 of us nicely and was very clean!Clean and calm.Read more reviewsLocation:
You can't beat the view or the location!Best place to stay at if you enjoy the water.Very good place to stay.
8. A historic 1927 houseboat with all the modern conveniences (from USD 187)
Another houseboat that guarantees a pleasant stay in Seattle, this historic tugboat dates back to 1927. Providing one bedroom and one bathroom, the houseboat is excellent for couples or solo travelers. The main room comes with a TV and ample storage space. Walk to the main salon and you can find an L-shaped couch that guarantees relaxation. Doors on each side of the salon lead to an outdoor area, a large kitchen, and a back deck. Enjoy a barbecue fiesta on the deck, which features a barbecue grill and a dining table for al-fresco dining.
UNIQUE SEATTLE EXPERIENCESeattle, Washington, United StatesTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
Bed is very comfortable.The bed was very comfortable.The bathroom and shower were also great.Cleanliness:
She was sparkling clean and extremely comfortable.It was immaculate -- sparkling clean.Very clean & safe location.Read more reviewsHost:
I wouldn’t hesitate to return and spend another week on the Sally.Will most definitely try to stay aboard Sally again upon visiting seattle.Thank you Michael and Kelley!
9. A houseboat with complete facilities (from USD 75)
Forget staying in a house or villa while in Seattle. For a unique experience, stay in this houseboat, which has everything you need for a comfortable stay. Offering one bedroom and one bathroom, the houseboat can perfectly accommodate three people. There is a rooftop deck, on which you can enjoy the lake views, as well the seaplanes passing above you. Other facilities offered include wall heaters, a fully equipped kitchen, as well as indoor and outdoor areas for breakfast.
Carrot HouseboatSeattle, Washington, United StatesTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
All 3 of us slept in the bed and were very comfortable.Bed was comfortable!The bed is extremely uncomfortable.Cleanliness:
Very clean, comfortable, cozy.The boat was shining clean and quite comfortable.Everything was very clean and it was fun to stay somewhere a little more unusual!Read more reviewsLocation:
The place is as described.The place was easy to find & very nicely kept!Cool place to stay
10. The Little Betty Houseboat
The Little Betty is a historic Sea Camper that has been upgraded with all your modern comforts. Inside, there is a plush king bed and a comfy sofa bed that together sleep three guests. The private bathroom is simple but clean, and the kitchen is well equipped with modern kitchen appliances. Located in a quiet, safe neighborhood, there is plenty of greenery and a few great coffee shops to get your daily fix at. Your hosts also provide kayaks to fit two adults if you’d like to have an adventure on the lake. The houseboat is also docked and will not be traveling around the lake.
"Little Betty" HouseboatWestlake, Seattle, Washington, United States
11. Seattle Floating Home
This delightful houseboat for two features a cozy bedroom and one private bathroom. The kitchen is well equipped and will allow you to prepare meals flexibly. The proximity of the houseboat to the University of Washington makes it ideal for people visiting students and residents at the University, and a unique alternative to staying in your usual bed and breakfast. In the vicinity, there is also a French bakery, a sushi restaurant and a Trader Joe’s to stock up on groceries. Please note however that your host only accepts bookings for a minimum of thirty nights.
Experience a Seattle floating home!Seattle, Washington, United States
12. Seattle Lakeside Lovenest
The Seattle Lakeside Lovenest has a classic black exterior with striking accents of yellow and gold. Step inside and you are in a beautifully furnished studio that’ll give you the feeling of staying in a boutique hotel. Unique pieces and a mix of textures gives the space a distinct character of its own. On the first floor, there is a luxurious king bed by a series of windows, allowing natural light to filter in and bathe the space in warmth. A ladder leads to the second level with a compact toilet, a second queen bed and the lovely outdoor deck. The houseboat accommodates groups of up to four persons and you will enjoy your stay here immensely.
Seattle Lakeside LovenestWestlake, Seattle, Washington, United States
Discover Seattle from the water
With their varied shapes and sizes and one of a kind designs, Seattle’s houseboats receive plenty of attention. If you’re curious about living on one of these floating boats, do try out one of the rentals on this list. If you enjoyed this article, share it with your friends on Facebook and save it to Pinterest for future reference!
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our privacy policy for more information on how we use your data
You can buy and claim online, even after you've left home. Travel insurance from WorldNomads.com is available to people from 140 countries. It’s designed for adventurous travellers with cover for overseas medical, evacuation, baggage and a range of adventure sports and activities.
*5% off when you book with our promo code: TRIP101
*For our Canadian and US travellers, unfortunately due to financial services laws, we cannot provide a discount. This promotional code cannot be used with any other discount offer, including World Nomads Members’ discount for travel insurance policy holders.
Create an account to bookmark our articles, receive great stories in your inbox, and follow writers and topics that you love.
Log in with Facebook Log in with Twitter Log in with Google ×