Living on a houseboat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that most can only dream about. However, you can make that dream a reality today by booking a houseboat on Airbnb with just a click of a few buttons. Better yet, why not make your vacation perfect by heading down to New York City, a vibrant and beautiful city, packed with must-see attractions and beautiful beaches? If you are planning your next trip and are looking for accommodation, New York offers plenty of places ranging from the best staycation spots to Airbnb vacation rentals. If you want a unique experience, below are some of the most amazing houseboats you can rent out for a dream holiday. Check out the best houseboats in New York City below.
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 April 08, 2024.
1. The Salt Shack (from USD 207)
Welcome aboard The Salt Shack, the ultimate coastal getaway for up to four guests. Immerse yourself in contemporary comforts, with a fully equipped kitchen, a snug daybed, and a luxurious new memory foam mattress for restful nights. While a composting toilet and shower are available onboard, larger communal bathrooms are accessible in the marina.
Experience spectacular panoramic views of the sea and marina, with easy access to public transportation. Delight in a diverse array of nearby dining and entertainment options. Embrace the pristine beauty of the surrounding beaches, perfect for relaxation and leisure activities.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the custom furniture on the upper floor was perfect for lounging and was also very comfortableCleanliness:
it was super clean and beautifully decoratedit was peaceful clean and quietthe houseboat was so clean and beautifully appointed with everything we neededthe salt box is charming and comfortable super clean and exactly as describedthe bathrooms at the marina were also very clean and a short walking distanceHost:
the hosts were also very responsive and gave many different suggestions for the surrounding areablair and brain are great hosts and very fast to respond to our questionsthere is so much to do in the area and the hosts give great recommendationsblair and brian are very gracious hosts and are eager to make your stay enjoyablewhat a special experience it is to stay on the salt shack truly one of a kindRead more reviewsLocation:
loved the marina & how close this spot is to the beachsuch an amazing location with lots to do very close to the air bnbit’s peaceful while also able to walk over to some fun dining options
2. Charming house barge with deck (from USD 72)
This charming houseboat for rent in New York barge comes with a spacious deck where guests can relax and enjoy the surrounding views. Featuring one bedroom and a half bathroom, this rental can comfortably sleep up to four guests. It is also equipped with heating, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a TV with standard cable. There is a kitchen area as well.
Moored in a marina that offers free parking, this catamaran cruiser motor yacht is located near Emmons Street waterfront. Guests can easily get to restaurants and exotic markets. The host also allows long-term bookings for 28 days or more.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
air conditioner was most welcome bed very comfy with tv and 2 million channels to choose fromwe had an excellent and cozy stay and plan on coming for another visit soonCleanliness:
very clean comfortable and hospitable environmentthe boathouse was clean good space and beautifulthe housebarge was clean and cozythe houseboat is enchanting clean and equipped with everything you needour stay on the house barge was fantastic the place was clean and orderlyHost:
the hosts were very nice friendly and helpfulour hosts were very helpful and friendlyfriendly and acomodating great storiesthey are incredibly helpful and made us feel very welcome on their boatthey were so attentive and helpful from the moment we booked to the last moment of our stayRead more reviewsLocation:
the location was right off the belt parkway and close to an excellent seafood restaurantangus & lisa gave us lifts to the subway station which was very kindlisa even took me to the park on the water nearby which was beautifulstarting with the good food in beautiful surroundings to best busa wonderful place to spend your holidays in new york
3. A family-friendly houseboat with style (from USD 900)
This newly redesigned houseboat rental in New York City is located in the sunny Jamaica Bay area of Rockaway Beach and overlooks the stunning Marina 59. The houseboat is just a short walk to the surf break, making it perfect for travellers with a passion for the waves. The host is more than happy to take guests out surfing and fishing, so you can experience the authentic houseboat life. There are two bunk beds in a separate room for young children, making this houseboat perfect for families with one or two children.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the beds were all super comfortable the view is gorgeous and the experience is relaxingthe houseboat is comfortable sun drenched and airy an incredibly magical placeRead more reviewsHost:
the boat is gorgeous and fun host is greathe was communicative and always on call to helpben is a very gracious and incredibly nice hostour host ben was communicative and helpful as we got settled inalso ben is an excellent communicator and a helpful host
4. Modern boat close to Coney Island (from USD 257)
A small family or a group of four friends can book this modern houseboat for rent to live in that is close to many other areas including Brighton Beach, Coney Island, and more. It has a fully equipped kitchen, a comfortable bedroom with a queen-size bed, a full bathroom, a dining area, and a furnished living area. From the top deck, take in serene views of the surroundings. Besides peace and quiet, this rental also offers easy access to numerous ethnic shops and restaurants located closeby.
New York City Tour Guide
Stephanie Eley
I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of... Read more
Tours by Stephanie
New York City Tour Guide
Hiram Jacobs
I am a licensed New York City Department of Consumer Affairs Tour Guide and a native New Yorker. Over the years, I acquired considerable experience organizing solo tours of the major European and East European capitals of the world, Canada's largest cities and Australia's most popular cities, Washington, DC, Atlanta, New Orleans, and San Francisco. During my international travels, I participa... Read more
Tours by Hiram
5. Luxury yacht for outdoor fun (from USD 800)
Ideally suited for six adults who wish to engage in outdoor activities, this luxury yacht offers a range of conveniences. There is a large swim platform, inflatable water toys, and kayaks available onboard this yacht. The sun pad is perfect for sunbathing, the flybridge is great for entertaining guests and the outdoor cockpit is ideal for alfresco dining. Inside, there is a well-equipped kitchen, three luxurious bedrooms and two elegant bathrooms. New York City is a short train ride away.
6. Floating cabin houseboat with style (from USD 33)
If you want to experience houseboat living in New York City, this floating cabin houseboat is perfect, located just a few steps away from iconic Rockaway Beach. While on holiday here, you can relax on the beach and suntan your worries away, or walk by the ocean as the evening breeze blows through your hair. Best of all, the host of this houseboat gives a 10 percent discount if you stay for two nights or more, making this trip a worthwhile and affordable one.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
there's no ac but we found that an evening shower coupled with her small fan was very comfortablethe houseboat was lovely: comfortable cute great views and noises from the bird sanctuary across the baybeds were super comfortable; i napped quite easily and oftenevenings were very comfortable and quietalso there is a huge deck on the top of the cabin with deckchair table plantsCleanliness:
the marina facilities were solid - clean bathrooms- and erin was terrificinside was clean lots of supplies and lots of roomthe shared bathroom are modern and very cleanthe bathroom and showers at the marina are actually clean and functionalthe bathrooms are a short walk but super clean and it didn't feel like an inconvenienceHost:
the host is great and responds to questions promptlyingrid was a great host and the boat was more than i expectedwe never met her but she was very responsive and gave us great advice & tipsgreat and communicative host 100/10 will stay againingrid was a great host easy to communicate with and answered all my questionsRead more reviewsLocation:
close to the beach and a unique and enjoyable experience of life on a boat in a marinagreat place to stay super close to the beachsuch a fun stay and really close to great places to go outit was peaceful close to everything we wanted to do and had a bit of magic to iti have already recommended this place to many friends
7. A beautiful floating surf safari awaits you for a midnight party (from USD 255)
This beautiful houseboat is located on the Franco, a private marina filled with the houseboats of many rich and famous people. This funky and cozy abode has amenities that include free parking on the premises, a kitchen stocked with cooking basics and a coffee maker, as well as a lockbox for you to keep all your items safe. A TV is available in your bedroom for you to pass the time in a relaxed environment. You can also rent a fishing boat at the marina or a surfboard at the local surf shop, just a few feet away.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the interior is absolutely wild the roof deck is great the bed is soft and comfytour through the foyer kitchen and nooks and you already feel like you've traveled farHost:
ben was a great host and was readily available for any questionsben was an excellent host who communicated clearly and answered questions quicklyben was very responsive and helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
comfortable unique and close to the beachwhat a unique and fun placeall and all it is a super cool place unique and worth the experiencemy partner and i went for a place to escape the heat wave and it delighted beyond imagination
8. Houseboat with splendid views (from USD 140)
This small and cozy houseboat with basic amenities is a great place to stay if you are looking for a relaxing holiday away from the hustle and city of city life. It includes a kitchenette where basic meals can be prepared, two single bunk beds, and a functional bathroom with hot water. There is parking for those who drove up the marina, Ideal for up to three people, this rental is perfect if you want to catch one of the best sunset or sunrise views. This rental is easily accessible from JFK airport for guests who have early flights to catch. Surfing and swimming opportunities are also located near this Airbnb houseboat for other water activities to try out when on vacation.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
bathrooms on the pier were clean and well maintainedHost:
greg is a great hosteveryone on the marina was friendly and made me feel like i belonged therevery few people in the marina when we were there but everyone was friendly and quietRead more reviewsLocation:
easy to get to by subway and bus and feels very safe in the marinashort walk to the beach and an easy uber ride to restaurants at night
9. Vintage cabin cruiser with beach access
Cozy and well-equipped, this vintage cabin cruiser is ideal for one or two guests. It offers a double-size bed in the bedroom area. Guests are also provided access to bathrooms in the marina just a two-minute walk away. Other amenities include books, a Bluetooth sound system, and a portable heater. The kitchenette is completed with cooking basics. The lack of Wi-Fi and TV also allows guests to disconnect and fully enjoy their getaway without the distraction of social media.
Guests who want to go swimming can head to the beach located just a seven-minute walk away.
Queens, New York, United States
7.69 km (4.8 mi) from Jacob Riis ParkSuperhost
Accommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
there's also a fan to cool down the spacethe bathrooms in the marina were open all night and clean lots of fresh air and windowsthe houseboat itself was comfortable though we didn't try to cook or do anything too complicated besides sleepCleanliness:
the bathroom facilities on land are clean and well keptthe restrooms and showers are clean and i felt perfectly safe walking there at nightthe boat was clean and securethe boat was clean and cuteHost:
our host was great attentive and welcomingthey were wonderful hosts and the boat was neat as a pinthe hosts were wonderful and very responsivei will definitely try and stay there again the host was really great and answered any questions promptlythe hosts are great checking is easy and the marina is beautifulRead more reviewsLocation:
neighbors were friendly and it's a short walk to the beachif you like plane watching and don't mind the noise it's the perfect locationbeing able to stay on a boat so close to the beach was awesomea and f's place is a fantastic escape from the citythe other reviews of freja were pretty accurate - super convenient location to the subway beach and market
10. Light-filled hideaway in a conservation area
Nestled in a conservation area of Jamaica Bay, this light-filled boat provides classic accommodation with a 70s vibe. There is one bedroom and one bathroom aboard, perfect for a group of up to four guests. Pets are welcome as well. Guests can also access the bathrooms at the marina. Amenities include heating, Wi-Fi, and cooking basics.
While there is no TV available, guests will easily find plenty of entertaining things to do. There is ample space on the unit for relaxing, fishing, and bird watching. A beautiful beach is also just four blocks away.
Queens, New York, United States
7.68 km (4.8 mi) from Jacob Riis ParkAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Host:
she was always attentive when i asked questions and made us feel welcomethe hosts were very friendly and available to answer every possible questiongina is very responsive and friendlyincredibly friendly hosts super chill and quick with responsesRead more reviewsLocation:
the location was great and it was a cute place in a really unique settingbonuses: walking distance to supermarket a train and beachfeels like being on vacation with the stillness of the marina and a short walk to the beach
11. Well-furnished houseboat with dock access
Featuring one bedroom and one bathroom, this houseboat rental provides an amazing getaway spot for up to four guests. It is located near a gated marina with free parking. Restaurants, farmers’ markets, and local shops are just within walking distance of this rental.
This houseboat offers one double-size bed and a dining table that can also be converted into a bed if needed. There is also a well-furnished kitchenette with cooking basics. Other amenities include portable fans, Wi-Fi, and outdoor furniture. Guests are also provided access to the marina’s dock and bathroom facilities.
Queens, New York, United States
7.62 km (4.8 mi) from Jacob Riis ParkAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the place is just as described and as others have said is so cozy and charmingCleanliness:
beautiful place and very cleanboat was clean and comfortablethe marina is clean and everyone there is super friendlythe bathroom at the dock is really cleanthe marina bathrooms were clean and not crowded and the marina shower has a good-sized changing areaHost:
everyone at the marina was super friendlyemily and hannah were very responsive and thoughtfulgreat communication from host emily with all instructions providedamazing place to stay co host hannah responded quickly to questions hope to stay again soon :3people at the marina were friendly and quietRead more reviewsLocation:
great location and a great experiencecozy and cute decor nice vibe and so close to the beachthe boat is sooo cute and it’s a 10 minute walk to a nice strip of restaurantslocation has a good size parking lot that is gated in requires a key fob for entrytook the bus to the ferry and enjoyed a nice sail to southstreet area
12. Lovely houseboat with lounge area
This well-furnished houseboat provides a wonderful setting for romantic getaways and family escapades. It has plenty of room for up to six guests. Inside the rental, guests will find two cozy bedrooms, one full bathroom, and another half bathroom. There is also a lounge area where guests can relax and enjoy stunning vistas, not to mention glimpses of visiting swans.
Other amenities include heating, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a TV. Suitable for events, this rental is also equipped with a sound system. Guests can park their cars at the marina for free. When they’re not relaxing on the houseboat, they can drive to nearby establishments or take a five-minute walk to the beach.
Queens, New York, United States
7.73 km (4.8 mi) from Jacob Riis ParkAccommodates: 15
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
comfortable to throw small partiesHost:
michael is a lovely host and the boat is beautifulhosts responsiveness is awesome all together great triphost is terrific and was there waiting for usRead more reviewsLocation:
outstanding spot for our needs close to beach train bus etccan recommend this place in summer
13. A houseboat in the Rockaways
The Salt Shack is a cosy houseboat located in the Rockaways, for you to have a rockin’ good time in New York City! All essentials in the bathroom will be provided for you, including towels, bedsheets, soap and toilet paper. An outdoor patio is available for you to look out to the sea while you relax and rewind after a long day of sightseeing. Do note, however, that no Wi-Fi is provided on the boat.
Arverne, New York, United States
7.63 km (4.8 mi) from Jacob Riis ParkAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
it was clean and super cutevery clean perfect self checkinthe houseboat is beautifully and thoughtfully put together super clean and comfortablevery cute clean and comfythe bathroom isn’t a huge deal given the marina bathrooms were kept very clean and well-stockedHost:
the hosts were friendly easygoing communicative and enthusiasticothers at the marina were super friendly and made us feel welcomedneanna and justin were very helpfuljustin is a nice guy and was very kind and helpfullwe had a great few days at the salt shack justin was super accommodatingRead more reviewsLocation:
it is a super close walk to the beach which was really nicethe bus right outside the marina door makes it really easy to get to riisthe place is very very cuteit was such a unique corner of nyc- perfect for a weekend getawayit's really a wonderful place
14. Tiny houseboat on the water
If you love the water, this is the place for you. A key feature of this petite houseboat is its rooftop, which comes with barbecue equipment and rustic outdoor furniture, so you can relax and rewind while enjoying an amazing view of the ocean. This beautiful houseboat is docked just feet away from three beautiful beaches. You can choose to visit any one of them during the day to surf, swim and soak up the sun. There is also a spacious golf course nearby, so golf enthusiasts should not miss out on this opportunity to enjoy the sport. Guests have free access to the entire houseboat.
New York, United States
6.47 km (4.1 mi) from Jacob Riis ParkTop guest reviews
Host:
host was super responsiveshe is a wonderful host and is very welcomingmarie is an amazing hostthe marina staff and other boat owners are also extremely welcomingshe was an exceptional host and extremely caring about any questions or concerns we hadRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is perfectthe location was great for our 1-night stay to visit family at breezyperfect for getting away from the sounds and lights of the city while still being closewe enjoyed a night away and the place was very comfortablethis is a beautiful and cozy place
15. Spacious houseboat in Port Washington
This houseboat sleeps up to five guests, making it perfect for larger families or groups of friends. It is conveniently located, just a 40-minute drive from New York City. A unique feature of this house is that it has four storeys, something not commonly seen on houseboats. You will get complimentary access to boat and kayak rentals, as well as day trips to the Statue of Liberty and around New York harbour. If you are looking for taste of both vibrant city life and tranquil life in a houseboat, this Airbnb rental will give you the best of both worlds.
Port Washington, New York, United States
32.86 km (20.5 mi) from Jacob Riis ParkTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
boat was nice with comfortable master bedroom great ac nice kitchen loft and rooftop deckthere are stunning views from all rooms and it is warm and beautifulthe houseboat was a charming and comfortable place to stay while visiting family nearbywe really enjoyed the comfy master bedroom great main area and kitchen and top deckHost:
hospitality of host was greatellen was a fantastic host she was there when we arrived and made sure that we were comfortablethank you very much for the opportunity and being a great hostellen was a lovely host and treated us as personal guestsellen was always helpful with our questions one of her neighbors helped with the check inRead more reviewsLocation:
neighborhood was ok with good restaurant within walking distancecouldn't have asked for a better location to access this area of long islandjust down the road from grocery shopping liquor store movie theater and town with nice walk with viewsgreat place to visitwhat a cool place to stay on the water and port washington is an interesting town
16. A unique experience aboard the Vacilanda
The Vacilanda is a majestic boat, adorned with beautiful high ceilings and a spacious yet homey living room. Its mast has been removed so that a large wooden deck could be erected on its top floor, providing a ton of outdoor space for you to relax and connect with friends and family. A propane grill and beautiful outdoor lights have been provided for you to invite your friends over for a fun barbecue. Other amenities include a refrigerator, gas stove, an oven and a stereo.
Queens, New York, United States
7.71 km (4.8 mi) from Jacob Riis Park
17. Luxury houseboat with stunning views
A unique feature of this houseboat is that it is located not on the sea but on a lake. Greenwood Lake is an amazing body of water with lush greenery lining its edges, providing you with an amazing view, regardless of the time of day. This houseboat is a fully functioning pontoon, so you are able to drive it around the lake and even sleep in the middle of the lake if you wish to! It is located just a five-minute drive to various restaurants and shops, so this is the perfect houseboat for a relaxed and fun, yet convenient and hassle-free weekend.
The bedroom area has two single beds in a bunk-bed style and is equipped with two complimentary towels for all stays longer than two days. You can look forward to a free bottle of wine if you are staying on this houseboat on Valentine’s day, and complimentary mince pies if you decide to do a Christmas vacay instead!
West Milford, New Jersey, United States
78.92 km (49.1 mi) from Jacob Riis Park
Nearby houseboats
18. Houseboat with bayfront views (from USD 535)
Indulge in an extraordinary bayfront living experience aboard this captivating houseboat boasting stunning views from its dual decks. The floating residence is thoughtfully designed with two cozy bedrooms, a generous living area, and a fully stocked kitchen for your convenience. Stay connected with wireless internet access, unwind with entertainment on the television, and stay comfortable with air conditioning throughout.
Embrace the great outdoors with invigorating outdoor bathing, thrilling fishing experiences, and the pleasure of observing marine wildlife up close. Bring along your beloved pets and service animals to share in the delight of this unique retreat.
Many amazing houseboats to explore
If you are planning your next trip to New York City and want to experience something totally different, this is your chance! Be sure to check out the above best houseboats in New York City, before your next trip here.
Frequently asked questions about best houseboats in New York City
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