Ohio is home to both the Ohio River and Lake Erie. It is a popular summer tourist destination for folks who like swimming, water sports, and houseboat vacations. It also houses a few popular amusement parks like Cedar Point which is about 150 years old. Offering something for everyone, this destination has many places to visit for families and couples. Sure, you could find yourself a nice hotel or lake house, but if you want to try something different, why not a houseboat? There are ample options for swimming, and the gentle rocking will lull you to sleep at night. Plus, the location is surreal as you’ll literally float on the water! Check out the best houseboats for rent in Ohio, USA.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on August 19, 2024.
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1. Tiny houseboat with a hot tub (from USD 145)
Are you looking for small houseboats for rent in Ohio? Then this houseboat in Sandusky will meet all your requirements. Equipped with a cozy bed and several windows letting you enjoy the water and marina views, this houseboat guarantees a wonderful vacation.
Furthermore, you can use the shared amenities offered, including outdoor spaces for barbecue and dining. You will also enjoy access to a shared hot tub exclusively for adults. There is even a handy convenience store and restroom facilities for a comfortable stay.
Sandusky, Ohio, United StatesAccommodates: 2
2. Ramble on Rose (from USD 160)
Ramble on Rose is located in downtown Port Clinton, offering you a variety of exciting adventures, including exploring the local restaurants, bars, shops, art galleries, and so much more. You can enjoy the fresh breeze sitting on the boat deck or set out on the water on your boat or kayak for a thrilling adventure. Do note that fishing poles and kayaks are available without any charges for overnight guests.
This Airbnb houseboat also comes with all the facilities you can expect from a traditional home, such as a kitchenette, a cozy bed, and a seating area. While the boat has a bathroom, there are unisex and gender-specific restrooms and bath facilities available on the dock, too.
Port Clinton, Ohio, United StatesAccommodates: 4
3. Lakeside retreat just minutes from downtown Cleveland
If you want lakeside charm and big city excitement, this fully renovated yacht offers the best of both worlds. Its corner dock at Cleveland’s Edgewater Marina provides an unobstructed view of Lake Erie. Turn around, and you’ll find that downtown Cleveland is just five minutes away by car, providing you with many fun things to do. The legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is just a seven-minute drive away. Experience its awe-inspiring architecture and historic rock and roll artifacts, including Elvis’ jumpsuits and a piano played by John Lennon.
The yacht itself is fully equipped, with its own kitchen and shower on board. Its unique charm and convenient location make it an excellent choice for families.
Cleveland, Ohio, United StatesAccommodates: 4
4. The Captains Quarters
If you are looking for a cheap houseboat rental, then look no further than this retro boathouse. The Captains Quarters is located at SōLSTAY Retreat & Marina, offering a perfect way to kickstart your vacation in Ohio. Rest well in the comfy bed and wake up early to catch the gorgeous views of the sunrise. Then, head to the dock for a barbecue breakfast or explore the nearby eateries.
Additionally, there is a shared hot tub available from May to September on the dock, so you can soothe yourself after a fun day of traveling.
Sandusky, Ohio, United StatesAccommodates: 2
5. The Jamestowner
This 54-feet (16.5-meter) houseboat has plenty of room for you to spread out. It’s perfect for summer with its outdoor dining deck. It also boasts an incredibly convenient location which is just a seven-minute drive from the relaxed North Swimming Beach. Two kayaks are included and can be used for a watery adventure.
Kids will find a lot to love about Cedar Point Amusement Park, which is only a 30-minute drive away. Grown-ups may want to take the 15-minute drive to the Kelleys Island Ferry, where they can sample locally grown wines and freshly baked pizzas at Kelleys Island Wine Co. The airy Crow’s Nest restaurant, with its family-friendly menu and happy hour cocktail deals, is a two-minute walk from the dock.
Lakeside Marblehead, Ohio, United StatesSuperhost
Accommodates: 4
6. Bright, modern houseboat with sunset views (from USD 125)
This unique houseboat strikes the perfect balance between vintage cool and modern comfort. The boat, christened as the Nutsea, first set sail in 1971. However, it has been renovated recently to meet modern standards. Due to this upgrade, it now has hot running water and all new furnishings. It even has one thing most houseboats don’t - a basement, which also functions as the third bedroom.
There’s plenty of onboard entertainment with board games and flat-screen TVs in the bedrooms. The boat’s marina also hosts fishing boats available to charter, including the friendly Bose-Man Sportfishing LLP. Catch yourself a fresh walleye, put it on the electric grill, and serve it on the top deck while watching the sunset.
Lakeside Marblehead, Ohio, United StatesAccommodates: 4
7. Cozy little houseboat for an adventurous holiday
Is the lake lifestyle not your thing? Worry not, this comfortable houseboat is docked on the Ohio River, with easy access to the metropolitan areas of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Newport, Kentucky. With a wealth of activity in either city, this is a great option for families as there’s something for everyone!
Newport Aquarium, with its breathtaking walk-through tunnels, is just a 15-minute drive away. The brave at heart can explore the hair-raising decks of the USS Nightmare, a haunted house set on a doomed dredging boat, which is also just 15 minutes away. Downtown Cincinnati, known for its savory Skyline Chili and the enormous Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens, is also accessible within a 15-minute drive.
Cincinnati, Ohio, United StatesAccommodates: 4
Other boat accommodations in Ohio, USA
8. Spacious, seaworthy yacht with option for transportation
Set sail aboard the Not Guilty! This is no stationary houseboat. It comes with its own captain, who’ll take you to all the local destinations.
Planning a day of thrills at Cedar Point Amusement Park but don’t want to worry about parking the car? No worries, this ship will dock at the nearby marina and take you there. You can also take the yacht to Kelleys Island for a day of shopping and feasting. Don’t forget to stop at Dipper Dan’s for some delicious hand-dipped ice cream. Bring all your friends and family members, as there is plenty of room to ferry 25 people and provisions for 10 people to sleep.
Sandusky, Ohio, United StatesAccommodates: 10
Summer fun on the water
Due to their nautical charm, unparalleled proximity to the water, and potential for variety, houseboats are rife with opportunities for amusement. With so much to do on the water in Ohio, you’ll never be bored. For your next vacation, set sail on one of these unique vessels.
Frequently asked questions about houseboats for rent in Ohio
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