What to Expect on a Shuswap Houseboat Vacation

Nestled among British Columbia’s spectacular mountain valleys lies the houseboating capital of Canada, Shuswap Lake. With over 1,100km of shoreline, acres of pristine forests and 309 square kilometres of deep water, Shuswap Lake is a houseboating paradise.
During the summer, the Shuswap region boasts average temperatures in the high 20s, so it’s no wonder that houseboating is one of the most popular family vacations in BC. People come from all over to spend beautiful days cruising on this magnificent lake, enjoying watersports, BBQing, and a pina colada or two above deck!
Here’s what you can expect when taking to the water for your summer vacation:
 

 

Aboard a Shuswap Houseboat

Cabin
Step inside the cabin of your houseboat and you’ll be surprised by the unique, wide-open feel of the interior. Spacious living areas, fully-equipped kitchens, lustrous wood trim, custom finished cabinets and cozy fireplaces make Shuswap’s houseboat rentals a true home away from home…. on the water!
Deck
On the lower front deck, cook up a storm on the outdoor BBQ or head to the back deck which features an outdoor shower, swim ladder and rod holders. The upper deck is where the ultimate relaxation occurs and where you’ll likely spend most of your time when aboard your houseboat. Many of Shuswap’s houseboats have incredible features – some models even come equipped with a large outdoor hot tub, wet bar with mini-fridge and huge waterslides! The upper deck is great for admiring the magnificent rolling farmland views and making the most of the beautiful BC interior’s sunny summer weather.
 

 
Sleeping
Shuswap’s houseboats offer a variety of sleeping options and can easily cater for large groups. If you want the privacy of your own bedroom, there are a number of staterooms onboard equipped with double beds and windows that allow you to stargaze at night. Most boats have a cozy porthole cuddy with a double bed, which is perfect for those who like getting snug and fully experiencing life on a boat. Aboard many of the houseboats you can also find pull-out sofabeds and dinettes – perfect for when you have extra guests.
We have a number of houseboat rentals for your next lake vacation:

• The Mirage 54 is the perfect home away from home… on water
• The Genesis 60 is a beautiful houseboat with an incredibly spacious upper deck and a luxurious lounge below
• With mega-houseboat personality, luxury style and home comforts, the Genesis 75 is the ultimate boat for a large group or extended family vacation
• Legacy 94 is the largest, most impressive houseboat we offer and is the ideal choice for large parties or intimate corporate events

Off the Houseboat

Many people choose to spend time both on and off their boat during a houseboat vacation. With so many things to see and do in the Shuswap area, you’re sure to never have a dull moment!
Beach
When houseboating, the saying “home is where you park it” definitely applies! In the evening, ‘park’ your houseboat on the shore and enjoy one of the many beaches that Shuswap Lake has to offer. Gather some kindling, grab some firewood and get a bonfire on the beach going. Kids will love roasting marshmallows on the open fire. As the night gets darker, the stars light up the sky and make for some incredible stargazing.
 

 
Restaurants
Situated in the Cinnemousun Narrows at the centre of the four arms lies Shark Shack. Moor your boat and enjoy some food right on the water at North America’s only floating restaurant. Grab a beer and take in the spectacular views of Shuswap Lake at Sicamous’ waterfront Moose Mulligan’s Pub. For those who need a little more time on land, take a short walk to the Shuswap Pie Company and treat yourself to a slice of their famous pie. From chicken pot pie to strawberry-rhubarb, the Shuswap Pie Company has your cravings covered.
Wineries
Nestled between Bastion Mountain and the Shuswap Lake shoreline, Sunnybrae Vineyards & Winery boasts its own unique micro-climate which is perfect for growing grapes. Sunnybrae offers a great selection of red, white and rose wines. Go on, try the ‘Redneck Red’. Family-owned and operated, Recline Ridge Vineyards & Winery sits at the heart of the Shuswap region. With a climate of sun-drenched days and cool evenings, Recline Ridge produces wines with a clean, sound structure, intense flavours and perfect balance. Enjoy a glass in the tasting room or on the patio.
Golf
The Shuswap region boasts an impressive 5 championship golf courses. Hyde Mountain Course, located on Mara Lake, is the most convenient for anyone aboard a houseboat. Moor your boat on the shoreline by the dock, take the complimentary shuttle to the Clubhouse and play a round of golf before heading back to your houseboat for a beverage.
 

 

Planning a houseboat vacation to Shuswap?

We offer a variety of Shuswap houseboat rentals to suit your vacation needs. Call our highly knowledgeable Destination Experts at 1.877.902.1616 who can answer any questions you may have about booking a houseboating vacation on Shuswap Lake.