11 Best Houseboat Rentals In Scotland, UK - Updated 2024

Elleine
Elleine 
Updated
| 4 min read

Scotland, the land of the kilted Highlanders, bagpipes, and historic castles, is a great place to visit and explore. It offers a variety of things to do. Your first stop can be Edinburgh Castle which was built on top of an extinct volcano. The castle gives you a glimpse into medieval Scottish royal life. You can satisfy your curiosity and see if you can spot the mythical Nessie in Loch Ness, and proceed to take amazing photos of the ruins of Urquhart Castle in Inverness. Meanwhile, fans of lush green nature, beautiful waterfalls, and sandy beaches will surely enjoy the Isle of Skye. If you are traveling around the month of July, grab the chance to attend the festivals in Glasgow, such as Glasgow Cabaret Festival. Make your trip up north more memorable by staying on Scottish waters. Scroll down to read about the best houseboat rentals in Scotland, UK.

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 February 08, 2024.

1. Lovely property with breakfast provided, Glasgow City

Begin your mornings right with a tasty breakfast prepared for you, offering a joyful and hassle-free start to your day. The houseboat is carefully outfitted with contemporary amenities, such as a TV with standard cable, to cater to your entertainment needs. A game console is also accessible for individuals who enjoy gaming, bringing limitless hours of fun and excitement.

This houseboat is ideal for families, as it includes a travel crib, a high chair, and children’s dinnerware. Use the indoor fireplace on cooler evenings. After a long day, treat yourself to some well-deserved pampering in the bathtub. Whether you’re looking for a quick escape or a more extended stay, this property provides versatility with long-term stays permitted.

Stayed at this property?
Glasgow City, Scotland, United Kingdom
39.2 km (24.4 mi) from Dundonald Castle and Visitor Centre
156 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Boat 3 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
a beautiful boat with really elegant interior and superbly comfortable with everything you could need for a comfortable stay
a cozy tranquil adventure
she felt like a comfortable luxury apartment with the excitement of being on board a beautiful boat
Cleanliness:
everything clean and neat
spacious spotless warm and welcoming
gerda is spotlessly clean and in a perfect location
Host:
hosts were lovely
brilliant hosts and beautiful barge boat :)
claire and michael were fantastic hosts
claire and michael are very friendly helpful hosts and respond quickly to any requests
claire and michael are wonderful hosts and couldn't have been more friendly or helpful
Location:
great location quite and peaceful yet walking distance from city centre
ability to walk to many glasgow city tourist spots
beautiful quiet location and close to subway and buses
excellent location great place to relax and take it easy
she is a beautiful boat in a great location with easy access to the city
Read more reviews

2. Charming and pet-friendly houseboat, Edinburgh (from USD 546)

Have a pleasant stay on this houseboat, which is carefully anchored in the middle of Edinburgh’s city center, only a seven-minute walk from the renowned Edinburgh Castle. Three smart TVs strategically placed throughout the home ensure that entertainment is readily available. An Alexa Bluetooth sound system is available for people who love listening to songs. Use the complimentary WiFi to stay connected and productive, and take advantage of the dedicated workplace.

This houseboat is intended for families traveling with young children and features a travel crib, a high chair, baby safety gates, and toys. Visit the deck and discover the lovely outdoor dining area. A charcoal grill is also available for those who enjoy the experience of sizzling barbecue delights. Pets are permitted to accompany you on your adventure aboard this houseboat.

Stayed at this property?
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
95.85 km (59.6 mi) from Dundonald Castle and Visitor Centre
13 reviews   Wifi Available
Boat 5 Beds 8 Guests 3 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 8

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
highly recommended for a different tho no less comfortable stay
Location:
great location walking distance to the very centre of edinburgh and loads of restaurants and bars close by
fabulous location beautifully kitted out
really wacky place in middle of edinburgh good value memorable thank you
Read more reviews

3. Beautifully decorated and cozy housboat, Glasgow (from USD 156)

If you want to stay on a boat in Scotland, this spacious two-bedroom houseboat rental has two bathrooms, providing a maximum occupancy of four people. The open-plan kitchen and living area, and the lounge by the log-burning fireplace ensure a relaxing sociable time.

It is also docked within a 10-minute walk away from the Glasgow city center, allowing guests to shop easily for items they need anytime.

Stayed at this property?
Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
39.25 km (24.4 mi) from Dundonald Castle and Visitor Centre
house boat 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
sleeping is comfortable with plenty of room for 4
the kitchen and appliances are scaled nicely everything fits together as it should
wood stove easily took the chill out of an early september evening and provided a cozy atmosphere
what a beautiful wide beam narrow boat plenty of room and all the necessities
Cleanliness:
spotlessly clean inside with quality fixtures and fittings
Host:
our host was really helpful and made everything easy
lovely owners lots great places to walk on doorstep almost
Location:
super quiet location and easy access to the subway to get around town
within walking distance of the city centre but so quiet and peaceful on the canal
great location - free parking and safe walk into glasgow (about 10 mins)
the location was convenient to glasgow and we would highly recommend staying here if you’re visiting the city
great accommodation with everything we needed and in a good location
Read more reviews

4. Romantic houseboat with grill, Glasgow (from USD 172)

Spend your vacation in a unique boat accommodation in Scotland and stay right amongst the luscious greenery of Glasgow. The boat comes with a smart TV equipped with your favorite streaming sites. You can set up the sofa bed and play board games, all the while snuggling up in front of the Victorian wood burner.

The small kitchen and barbecue by the dock allow you to prepare delicious meals and enjoy them al fresco on the boat’s bow.

Stayed at this property?

45.54 km (28.3 mi) from Dundonald Castle and Visitor Centre
3 reviews   Wifi Available
house boat 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

5. Luxurious floating home near city center, Edinburgh (from USD 291)

Want to stay in a boat but worried about seasickness? Put your worries to rest as this houseboat is permanently docked in the Lochrin Basin on Union Canal. It comes with two double beds, a children’s bunk bed, and a double sofa bed.

Even if there are numerous restaurants and bars around, you’ll be enticed to make your meals in the fully equipped kitchen of this luxury houseboat in Scotland. You can have your meals at the breakfast bar or on the patio on deck.

Stayed at this property?
Edinburgh, GB
6 Guests 4 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Other boat accommodations in Scotland

6. Cozy boat stay on Forth and Clyde Canal, Camelon

Stay close to the wonders of nature and local wildlife when you book this boat. It has internet access, a queen-sized bed, a small kitchen, and a private toilet.

Wake up to the swans and ducks peacefully swimming by the boat. The property is close to local bars and restaurants that often have performances you can check out on weekends. Enjoy your stay by taking wonderful photos of the magnificent sunsets.

Stayed at this property?
Camelon, Scotland, United Kingdom
67.82 km (42.2 mi) from Dundonald Castle and Visitor Centre
74 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Boat 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the cooking facilities onboard were more than adequate as well and allowed us to make a lovely brunch
Cleanliness:
spotlessly clean and cosy space
clean boat lovely touches
clean cosy and free champagne
the cruiser was spotless cosy and romantic
very quiet/relaxed spot on the canal very clean comfortable and has everything you could need on board
Host:
stewart is the perfect host and was very quick to answer any questions we had
host is also extremely helpful and fast responding
great little stay on this little boat stewart a fantastic host always there to help
thank you stuart for being so helpful and for the champagne to help celebrate our anniversary
stewart was a very kind host and nothing was too much at all
Location:
great location for fife
great place in great location
great location close to the falkirk wheel
what a great location for exploring the surrounding area
location was fab everything you needed was there and available
Read more reviews

7. Modest escape pod for couples, Glasgow

This oil rig rescue pod converted into a comfortable boat will make your date night unique and memorable. The king-sized bed and wood burner fireplace are sure to keep you warm and cozy at night.

Show off your cooking skills to your partner by preparing meals in the kitchen. If you find the shower provided a bit too small for you, there are many shower facilities provided for boat residents in the area that you can use.

Stayed at this property?
Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
40.02 km (24.9 mi) from Dundonald Castle and Visitor Centre
86 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Boat 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
alan’s place is great - very cleverly designed and kitted out and was extremely comfortable and spacious
the shower was nice and hot and was much better than expected
Cleanliness:
clean and comfy with modern decor
it was immaculately clean and alan was super helpful and easy to contact during our stay
Host:
alan was a very good host
alan is also a great host friendly and informative
alan was a perfect host friendly and available at if needed
such an amazing experience the host was fantastic and the boat was perfect
alan was immediately responsive to any message i sent cannot praise the experience enough all in all fabulous
Location:
pod situated on a nice quiet area
it’s an ideal base to explore from not too far from the park or from glasgow
a wonderfully quirky stay in a great location
something different and in a great location
2 min walk is lovely picnic area
Read more reviews

8. Beautiful floating abode with amazing sunset views, Port Bannatyne (from USD 230)

Enjoy your vacation on the water and under the sun in this stationary boat docked by the Isle of Bute. It has three beds that can sleep up to four guests. Settle in with your favorite drink on the sundeck and appreciate the magnificent waterfront view.

The place also comes with a small kitchen that has basic ingredients and complimentary tea and coffee. You can create your own snacks and hang out on one of the four sandy beaches near the area.

Stayed at this property?
Port Bannatyne, United Kingdom
44.06 km (27.4 mi) from Dundonald Castle and Visitor Centre
42 reviews   Wifi Available
Boat 4 Beds 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
roger was friendly and informative
roger and iona were excellent hosts from start to finish
roger and iona were both very helpful and gave us advice on where to visit
the hosts are very accommodating would highly recommend
enough room for 2 adults and 2 children roger was a great host who answered any questions promptly
Location:
great location on the island
great place to be based to get out and enjoy the island highly recommended :)
Read more reviews

9. Room in a spacious boat & breakfast, Inverness (from USD 139)

Moored about 15 minutes away from Inverness city center, this boat allows you to conveniently explore local pubs and restaurants without worrying about taking too long to get back.

This boat has all the same comforts that you can have on land. Rooms here have two twin beds and a wardrobe offering enough storage for luggage. The bathroom has been renovated with a toilet and bath for the guests’ convenience.

Stayed at this property?
Highland, Scotland, United Kingdom
213.21 km (132.5 mi) from Dundonald Castle and Visitor Centre
157 reviews   Wifi Available
Private room in boat 2 Beds 2 Guests 4 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
beds comfortable on a warm night fans were provided breakfast lovely especially asded touches
the breakfast in the morning was a very filling classic scottish one with beautiful views of the water
we had a lovely bearth which very cozy
he also cooked up an amazing breakfast with some entertaining stories about his life experiences
Cleanliness:
the place was spotless and comfortable
the room was clean private and quiet
our cabin was clean and cosy and breakfast was delicious
Host:
alex was a great host
alex was a wonderful host
friendly helpful and knowledgeable host
the host alex is superb
he is a gracious host who communicates quickly and answers all your questions
Location:
great location and a fun stay
the location is great and so different
small walk down town close to several great restaurants and pubs
15 mins walk from centre of inverness and gorgeous setting
the trawler was in a good location and the beds comfortable
Read more reviews

10. Fully equipped cruiser on Loch Ness, Foyers

This two-bedroom private boat comes with a lower-deck dining area in the kitchenette, and a spacious upper deck with diverse seating options. You can enjoy dazzling views of Loch Ness on deck as you soak in the warmth of the sun. The boat also has two bathrooms, with one being ensuite.

If you want to explore the lake further, the host can arrange to have a skipper sail you around. Parking will not be a problem as there are parking spaces available on the pier.

Stayed at this property?
Foyers, Scotland, United Kingdom
187.29 km (116.4 mi) from Dundonald Castle and Visitor Centre
4 reviews   Superhost
Boat 3 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
this is a lovely comfortable boat - the hosts are friendly and helpful
staying on the boat was great fun karla was really kind and quick to respond
malcolm very kind & helpful
Location:
great location with nearby pubs and shop
Read more reviews

11. Private cabin in traditional fishing boat, Troon

Experience Scotland like never before and book a private cabin on this fishing boat. It is fully renovated to become a fully functional home on the water. Its wheelhouse is converted into a cozy reading room complete with various books to choose from.

The spacious lounge also allows guests to hang out comfortably by the fireplace. You can enjoy a Thai dinner and Scottish breakfast prepared by the hosts for a small fee.

Stayed at this property?
Troon, Ayrshire , Scotland, United Kingdom
6.11 km (3.8 mi) from Dundonald Castle and Visitor Centre
164 reviews   Wifi Available
Private room in boat 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 0 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
comfortable and warm - and a lovely breakfast
the bed was comfortable too
Cleanliness:
cabin was clean and fun
the room was very clean and peaceful
the room was spacious clean and comfortable
rosie washed our clothes & provided clean towels & linens each day of our stay
Host:
thank goodness for the transit staff
great hosts on a great boat
david is a really friendly and helpful host
david & rosie are wonderful hosts
david was a friendly host and accommodating with our late check-in
Location:
fantastic floating b&b in great location
an easy walk away from everything you could want
the town was gorgeous and walking distance from the boat
really enjoyed our stay at this magical location
carparking was easy and free to park over night
Read more reviews

Relax by the peaceful waters in Scotland

Aside from its majestic fields and ancient castles, Scotland’s water bodies offer exciting and novel tourist experiences. Experience Scotland’s waters and acquire a deeper appreciation of its lakes and canals by booking a houseboat in Scotland, UK, for holidays or long-term stays. If you want luxurious accommodations, hotels with hot tubs are also available.

Frequently asked questions about the best houseboat rentals in Scotland, UK


Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Elleine, a writer and traveler, enjoys covering a broad range of topics, from beauty and fashion to everyday products such as boat carpets. She sees writing as an engaging avenue to gain insights...Read more

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