Is a Houseboat Vacation Right for You?

If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up on the water, sipping coffee with a river breeze in your hair, and watching the sun set from your rooftop deck—then a houseboat vacation might be exactly what you need. But if you’re new to the idea, it’s totally normal to wonder: Is staying on a houseboat really for me?

At The Cove in Downtown Wilmington, NC, we host thousands of guests each year—some seasoned houseboat lovers, others trying it for the first time. Here’s everything you need to know before booking your first (or next!) stay on the water.

What It’s Like to Stay on a Houseboat

Staying on a houseboat is not like staying on a traditional boat—and definitely not like camping on water. Our luxury houseboats are designed to feel more like stylish floating villas than rough-and-tumble sailboats.

Each boat at The Cove includes:

• Full kitchens

• Comfortable living rooms

• Two bedrooms and two full bathrooms

• Rooftop decks with seating

• Smart TVs, Wi-Fi, and all the comforts of home

• Heating and air conditioning for year-round comfort

You’ll be docked in a peaceful marina, just steps from Wilmington’s award-winning Riverwalk. While the boats are securely tied and don’t rock like traditional boats, you may notice a subtle sway at times—something most guests find soothing. If you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s worth considering, but many first-timers are surprised by how comfortable and stable the experience feels.



Why People Love It

Houseboat vacations offer a few things you just can’t get from a hotel or beach rental:

• Waterfront views from every window
• The calming sense of water beneath your feet
• The feeling of total escape—without being far from anything
• Instagram-worthy moments every time the light hits the water just right

Whether you’re celebrating a romantic getaway, a girls’ weekend, or just need to unplug, staying on a houseboat adds a special layer of magic to your trip.

Is It Right for You?

YES, if you love:

• Unique lodging that feels like an experience in itself
• Waterfront views and breezy mornings
• Being close to downtown restaurants, bars, and activities
• The idea of doing something different from the usual beach house or hotel
• Relaxing with coffee on the deck and cocktails at sunset

It might not be your thing if:

• You’re looking for a swim-off-the-dock experience (the river water here isn’t swimmable)
• You need large party space (we have guest limits to protect the boats and maintain the peaceful vibe)
• You’re uncomfortable with a little gentle rocking, though most people find it soothing
• You have significant mobility issues—access to the houseboats requires a moderate walk from the parking area and use of a dock ramp that can become steep at low tide. While most guests navigate it easily, it may not be suitable for those with limited mobility or balance concerns.

 Tips for First-Timers at The Cove

1. Pack smart—but don’t overpack.

You won’t need much more than casual clothes, comfy shoes for exploring downtown, and something cozy for cooler evenings on the deck. Each houseboat has full-size appliances, so you can bring groceries if you want to cook.

2. Leave your worries (and hard-soled shoes) at the dock.

Soft-soled or slip-resistant shoes are ideal for the floating docks and boat decks. And remember: part of the joy of houseboat life is slowing down—so let yourself settle into a more relaxed pace.

3. Know where you are—Downtown on the water comes with a little character.

Downtown Wilmington is vibrant and full of events, which means traffic and parking patterns may shift, especially on weekends. We always do our best to communicate event schedules and road closures with guests ahead of time. Also, being on the coast and on the water means you may encounter a few bugs (like water bugs). We spray regularly in accordance with on-water regulations, but there’s no way to completely eliminate them from the dock and outdoor areas. It’s all part of the waterfront experience!

4. Plan to walk—and bring a wagon if you have one.

There’s a moderate walk from the parking lot to your houseboat and a dock ramp that can become steep at low tide. We do provide wagons to help guests transport luggage and supplies, but if you have your own, bringing it will make things even easier during check-in and check-out.

5. We’re here if you need us.

Our on-dock office is staffed daily, typically from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (often longer), and our crew is always happy to help. Whether you need a restaurant rec, extra towels, or assistance with your boat, we’re just a few steps away.

6. Savor the sunrise—or sleep in.

There’s something special about sipping coffee on the deck as the sun comes up over the marina—but if you’re not an early riser, that same deck is just as magical at sunset with a glass of wine in hand.

Why The Cove?

You can stay in a beach house. You can stay in a hotel. But you won’t find anything quite like The Cove—because it’s the only luxury houseboat community of its kind.

The Cove isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a completely different way to experience the coast.

With over 4,500 reservations and counting, we’ve created a space where comfort, style, and riverfront living come together in a way you simply can’t replicate on land. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning guest, your stay at The Cove is more than a getaway—it’s a memory in the making.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful reset or an unforgettable adventure, your getaway on the water starts here—at The Cove.