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Houseboat Retreat in Downtown St. Augustine

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Property grounds
Property grounds
3 bedrooms, WiFi, bed sheets, wheelchair access
Beach
Exterior

Reviews

7.8 out of 10

Good

Entire house boat

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6350 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space
  • Water view

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire house boat to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Houseboat Retreat in Downtown St. Augustine

Summary:
Beautifully decorated 40' Houseboat, uniquely located in the historic Downtown St. Augustine 5 min. from St. George Street, 5 min. from Castillo de San Marcos Fort.

Enjoy morning coffee with dolphins & evening cocktails overlooking a gorgeous sunset in the San Sebastian River.

Most questions can be answered in our FAQ found below.

The Space:
Very comfortable houseboat that sleeps 6 comfortably. Plenty of room to move around with a living room, master bedroom with Queen bed, and two lofts each with a full bed.

-Private 40' Houseboat
-Air Conditioning
-Mini fridge
-One Bathrooms w/ shower and another half bath
-Large new bathroom facilities with showers at Marina
-WiFi
-Kitchenette with mini refrigerator, Keurig coffee maker, microwave, induction stove top, toaster
-Patio area in the front, back, and on top of the boat
-Portable radio
-Pets are NOT allowed. Please see our other vessels that are pet friendly

WHAT YOU SHOULD CONSIDER:
There is one master bedroom with a queen sized bed and two loft areas with a full sized bed and a large v-berth full sized bed. The loft rooms are adjacent and open Please read the FAQ for a description of a v-berth and a loft.

Important: Our properties are protected by SUPERHOG, the digital trust platform that enables Hosts, Operators and Guests to confidently transact in the short-term rentals space.

Please note that once you have booked, you will be contacted by SUPERHOG directly to verify yourself. Please make sure this is completed prior to check-in.

Q: What is a loft room?
A: A loft is a smaller space area with a lower ceiling.

Q: What is a V-Berth bed?
A: A V-berth bed is usually located at the bow (front) of the boat and has a V-shape so the bed tapers to the bow of the vessel.

Q: Location?
A: English Landing less than 1-mile to the heart of the historic district. A five minute Uber away!
The boat is located in a private marina where our boat is slipped. This accommodation is for people looking for peace and tranquility over the river in the St. Augustine historic district.

Q: Can we shower on the boat?
A: Yes, but please only take light showers. For example, if you are showering off from the beach please use the private marina facility showers because this will clog the vessels shower pump.

Q: How can I see all of your places for rent?
A: Click on our Airbnb profile (the round photo) & scroll all the way to the bottom below the aggregated reviews (on Mobile) or look to the left (on Desktop). You’ll see all of our listings - or check them out on our profile


Q: 1 Night Reservations?

A: Yes! You can instant book or send us an inquiry!

Q: Is it comfortable?
A: VERY! Our boats are designed with live-aboard / stay-aboard in mind with all the creature comforts of home. Fully stocked kitchenettes, premium furnishings, updated HVAC, TV, coffee makers… etc.

Q: Wifi?
A: The Marina is equipped with a WiFi network. Codes will be provided shortly prior to check-in

Q: Any restaurants close by?
A: TONS! Some of St. Augustine’s best are within a mile of the marina.

There is also a gorgeous waterside food truck park in The English Landing Marina. Features the area's most loved food trucks. Open 11-8 daily. Enjoy dining at our umbrella-covered picnic tables spaced ten feet apart. Handicap accessible and pet friendly.

Q: How to book:
A: If you don’t have any questions after reading over the FAQ below then simply instant book. If you send an inquiry we’ll respond promptly, if not immediately.

Q: Why is the price so different for my dates?
A: Airbnb automatically sets our prices based on demand & seasonality. If you don’t search with exact dates Airbnb shows the lowest price throughout the season. Prices range from $99 per night for weekday day-of bookings in January all the way to $499 per night for weekends during peak season summer and everywhere in-between.

Q: Bathroom… explain!
A: The boat is equipped with a water heater ensuring you get hot water throughout the boat. You'll always have enough hot water to enjoy a 10 - 15 minute shower. The boat has a full sized marine toilet that is easy to use as long as you follow our simple instructions. The bathroom on the boat can be used for number 1's. Otherwise there can be odors from the tank. There is a bathroom facility for everything else!

Light showering on the boat is okay and we have showers in the bathroom facility as well!

Q: Heat? Air Conditioning?
A: Our boats are equipped with BOTH ample Heat & Air Conditioning. No matter the time of year you can be assured that you will be staying in a climate controlled & comfortable environment.

Q: Can we take the boats out & drive them?
A: We have our own captain to charter the vessels. We do not have bare boat charters. Please message us about our private cruises.

Q: Can we check-in early?
A: Early check-in is available as early as 2pm for an additional fee of $20. Early check-in is subject to availability

Q: Can I checkout late?
A: We will do our best. Most days there’s someone checking in the same day there’s a checkout but we try & go above and beyond if this is requested. Subject to availability and charges may apply.

Q: What to expect that's different than a hotel?
A: It's a boat, it is a unique FUN experience. There may be noises and smells that you'd expect from a boat. Pumps, motors, ocean water, etc. Every boat is broken the day it hits the water, especially salt water. We take great care of our fleet but we expect guests to tell us if anything isn’t working properly & we will PROMPTLY respond & will try to repair it in a timely manner.

Q: Waves?
A:. There is still a small amount of wave action and you'll feel a slight rock from time-to-time. If there's a bad storm or the wave action gets to a point that your stay is no longer enjoyable, we will do our best (no guarantees) to work out alternative accommodations for you. Your comfort is our top priority. 99% of the time the marina is almost totally flat and calm. If there is a tropical storm or hurricane warning issued in our county we offer full credits toward another stay on any of our vessels to accommodate the situation

Q: Do you allow pets?
A: Not on this vessel. Please see our other listings that are pet friendly.

Q: Can we hold events or parties?
A: No. This is a place to relax. We ask that there be no events or parties on the boats so the other guests can enjoy their stay. Quiet time after 10pm.

Q: Is the marina safe?
A: VERY. We have 24/7 surveillance. The parking lot & dock is well lit & the marina is right off US-1 which is one of the main roads in St. Augustine. All boats lock from inside & you can padlock the door when you leave if you wish to lock up your belongings. We’re here daily looking over the fleet.

Q: Handicap accessible?
A: No. You'll need to get on the boat which requires a 1-2' step and there are steps on the boat. The deck stairs are steep and you'll need to be sure footed.

Q: Parking?
A: Yes, you can park your car. Since it’s a small private marina the walk to the parking lot from the boat is only roughly yards away.

Q: What if there is a hurricane advisory?
A: If there are hurricane advisories issued in the local area we are happy to move the reservations to a later date or issue a full credit toward another reservation with us. This credit can also be applied to our cruises and is transferable to other vessels.

Other Things to Note:
We appreciate our military, law enforcement, and first responders and offer a 10% discount!

You get to park for free as close to the boat as possible - about 50 yards away. There are dock carts if you want to use them to haul your luggage and stuff down the ramp to the boat.

You will be given all instructions needed to access the boat for your stay prior to arrival. We are always available to answer any questions or concerns for you, and we do our best to address any individual problems ASAP for you to ensure you have an enjoyable stay! Your satisfaction is our #1 goal and we strive to be 5-star hosts!

Please take off your shoes before entering the boat the soles will scuff the wood.

Every time you leave the boat and upon check-out please make sure you close all hatches and windows. You never know when it'll rain in Florida!

Property manager

Dream Aboard

Languages

English

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the accommodation: WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Kitchenette
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Stereo
  • TV

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Dock

Work spaces

  • Office

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Wheelchair accessibility
  • Smoke-free property

Location highlights

  • In the city center
  • Near the sea
  • On a river

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Property does not allow children
  • Unit size: 350 square feet

Similar properties

Property grounds

Infinity Yacht in Downtown St Augustine ★★★★★

Kitchen
Parking included
Air conditioning
Gym
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (55)
The price is $216
includes taxes & fees
$204 per night
Jan 12 - Jan 13
Infinity Yacht in Downtown St Augustine ★★★★★

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

This property does not allow children

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

Property is also known as

Retreat In St Augustine ★★★★★
Houseboat Retreat in Downtown St. Augustine
Houseboat Retreat in Downtown St. Augustine ★★★★★ Houseboat
Houseboat Retreat in Downtown St. Augustine ★★★★★ St. Augustine
60d1e278d904a6002f8aa59e

About the neighborhood

Map
St. Augustine, Florida

What's nearby

  • Flagler College - 18 min walk - 1.0 mile
  • Ponce de Leon Hotel - 3 min drive - 1.1 miles
  • Lightner Museum - 3 min drive - 1.2 miles
  • St. George Street - 4 min drive - 1.5 miles
  • Castillo de San Marcos National Monument - 4 min drive - 1.9 miles

Getting around

  • St. Augustine, FL (UST-Northeast Florida Regional) - 9 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Carmelo s Marketplace - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪San Sebastian Winery - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪Metro Diner - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪St Augustine Fish Camp - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Bog Brewing Company - ‬11 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Houseboat Retreat in Downtown St. Augustine pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Houseboat Retreat in Downtown St. Augustine?

As of Jan 5, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Houseboat Retreat in Downtown St. Augustine on Jan 15, 2025 start from $148.0, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What time is check-in at Houseboat Retreat in Downtown St. Augustine?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Houseboat Retreat in Downtown St. Augustine?

Check-out is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Houseboat Retreat in Downtown St. Augustine located?

Located in the heart of St. Augustine, this houseboat is within a 5-minute walk of San Sebastian River and Oyster Creek Marina. Saint Johns Plaza Shopping Center and Hidden Harbor Marina are also within 15 minutes.

Reviews

7.8

Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 17 out of 32 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 32 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 32 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 3 out of 32 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 5 out of 32 reviews" "

8.4/10

Cleanliness

6.0/10

Amenities

6.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

6.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

2/10 Terrible

Susan

Traveled with group
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This boat was filthy. Toilet wouldn’t flush. Outlet’s didn’t work (3). Toaster broken. Screens were ripped. Air conditioner had broken vents and didn’t cool at all. Outlet hanging from wall. Floors were dirty. Absolutely horrendous. Contacted rental company and no answer.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

4/10 Poor

Jason S.

Disliked: Cleanliness
Not as nice as the pictures show
First off we was supposed to check in at 4pm and we could not due to cleaning/repair then was told the converter was bad so the toilet wouldn’t work for a few well the toilet never worked also not hot water the sheets, dishes, and the shower was dirty it was hot had to move 2 fans and purchase a third fan just so we could be cool enough to sleep the back deck and view is amazing the atmosphere was good but will not stay at the this boat again but would stay at the marina on a different one
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kc S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome place to relax
The host responded to our questions quickly. Tye location was awesome, great views. We would for sure stay again.
Stayed 1 night in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

miguel v.

Liked: Cleanliness
Boat Experience
If you like to just relax, and feel at home this is the place to go to. You wake up to a nice view of the river, and at that you’re not far from the historic heart of st Augustine. It’s a great boat experience. Our last day there we got to see dolphins passing by our bout that we stayed in! We will definitely put it down as an amazing place to stay at!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

8/10 Good

Glen M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Houseboat Stay on San Sebastian River
We did enjoy our stay in St. Augustine and the time spent on the houseboat was a change of pace. We strive to be five star tenants and we like to give five star ratings where it is due. In this case I cannot do that. At the time of our arrival a lady arrived unannounced and without introduction and showed us a key for the bathroom. She left before we really knew what happened. Your staff should introduce themselves. When I compare the description of your property to the actual experience I find quite a gap. I am not sure that it would have altered my choice for your property but it would have been nice to know that your description of a loft meant a four foot high space with a bed on the floor. A loft does sound quite luxurious. Crawling around on the floor with arthritic knees…not so much. Your property was clean, with enough room to sit in the living area for the four of us. We had one heater used in the master bedroom and thankfully we brought extra blankets for those of us in the ‘loft’ areas. We did enjoy coffee on the rear upper deck in the morning.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2024

4/10 Poor

Carla M.

Unpleasant
Lack of communication: was not aware of bunks being labeled as bedrooms : advised 1 hour prior to checking in restrooms were for limited usage- no hot water - boat had absolutely terrible Oder - we were not advised no heat and were not told about space heaters hidden away until I reached out - was below 50 degrees in vessel over night on Dec 30th - felt as if there should be advice may not be suitable for older people - furniture was cheap and flimsy- some dishes were not clean - rug on the ship filthy - Honestly only good thing was view .
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Fred R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful place
It's on the water of course. Everything was clean and inviting. We relaxed on the top of house boat for evening. Also theres a few connection stands that sell food literally 25 ft away. Very enjand relaxing. I will stay there again and again
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2023

2/10 Terrible

Dawn C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Old and needs maintenance
Many maintenance/safety issues. No toilet only a camping port-a-potty. Pics on the listing were of another boat which was nicer and newer.
Stayed 1 night in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Donnie W., DeLeon Springs, FL

Liked: Cleanliness
Unique Fun Experience!
The houseboat was very clean and stocked with everything we needed. We only spent one night, but it was comfortable enough we would love to have stayed more. Thanks for a great evening away!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2023

6/10 Okay

Katen C.

Liked: Cleanliness
The pros and cons to know before you go!
Minus No pooping on boat! Sometimes a line for toilet /shower which can make things unpleasant Smells from bathrooms Head banging on low hanging areas (I know it’s a boat) Location on a very busy road Towels a bit thin and smelly Can’t flush toilet paper Lock on the exterior door seems flimsy and unsafe due to location Noisy air conditioner /fan unit Food truck openings and hours unreliable Lightbulb out in sleeping berth Outdated exterior could use some freshening up Good communication from host Good shower with hot water Wifi service Beautiful sunrise views Proximity to historic St Augustine Convenient parking Food trucks are a nice convenience Bird watching
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

6/10 Okay

Katen C.

The novelty wore off quickly
Minus No pooping on boat! Sometimes a line for toilet /shower which can make things unpleasant Smells from bathrooms Head banging on low hanging areas (I know it’s a boat) Location on a very busy road Towels a bit thin and smelly Can’t flush toilet paper Lock on the exterior door seems flimsy Noisy air conditioner /fan unit Food truck openings and hours unreliable Lightbulb out in sleeping berth Outdated exterior could use some freshening up Good communication from host Good shower with hot water Wifi service Beautiful sunrise views Proximity to historic St Augustine Convenient parking Food trucks are a nice convenience Bird watching
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joseph C., Fort Fairfield, Maine

Liked: Cleanliness
Unique adventure that was a lot of fun
We only stayed for one night but will plan on a few nights next time to see more of the area and enjoy the boat. No problems at all and having the food trucks near by made meals very convenient.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rosalinda R., Jacksonville Florida

Liked: Cleanliness
Stunning Boathouse
Absolutely loved the experience, boathouse is super adorable and chic. Very clean modern and spacious boat, would definitely recommend! Communication with owner/property manager was excellent!
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michael Z.

Liked: Cleanliness
Water View
We loved beginning and ending each day on the rooftop patio. Super easy drive to downtown.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023

8/10 Good

Karen B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Interesting Property
My husband, daughter, and I stayed on this boat as part of graduation gift to my daughter prior to the Christmas holiday. The boat was very clean and easy to access. I would have liked a bit more information up front about the bathroom situation in the marina. I don't recall that I read anything about using the marina bathrooms (which is open 24/7) for anything more than a number 1. There also wasn't a lot of information about the shower. There was hot water for about 3 minutes, not enough for a whole family on a cold and rainy day/night. There were actually two codes for the marina bathrooms not only the one provided. This caused an issue as multiple people needed to use the bathroom and the one code didn't work on one of the stalls. Overall, it was a nice stay for one evening. I am not sure we could do more than two days IF the weather is good.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2022

2/10 Terrible

Bonnie E.

Frigid on board for two nights
The boat was ok, but nothing fancy. However the owners should have emailed us instructions on how to operate the electrical and heating systems before we went down. Because we had no idea what to do, the first night it was in the teens and we literally froze. It was absolutely impossible to keep both sides of the boat warm with one small space heater. I have never woken up that cold ever. And I warned the owners we were a party of four senior citizens. We ran out the second day and bought our own second heater so the second night was acceptably warm. But the third day the power went out from the shore connection so there we were in frigid overnight temperatures again. Luckily a neighbor renting another nicer boat from Dream Aboard knew his way around houseboats and he figured out how to turn the shore connection back on. But do advertise this boat as " heated" is laughable. And much of our problem could have been solved with a short operators manual. PS Two of the four of us are now at home with major flus. So thank you very much!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2022

4/10 Poor

Richard W.

Somewhat disappointed with process…
Originally easy to book, third party contacted me in middle of night right before stay to validate personal info. Refused as it should have been done up front as part of process or not at all. They had my money for months prior. Owner waived but continued to get contacted. Accommodations ok. Too far from historic district to walk but Uber available. Otherwise stay was uneventful.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Diana O.

Liked: Cleanliness
Review
It was fun and very different staying on a boat, I recommend it over a typical hotel room at least once. Close to town, beautiful looking out your bedroom window which is even with the back lower deck. We had a full moon and plenty of stars. Only problem was there was only one bath towel and not enough toilet paper, no directions on how to log into the internet to get the TV on, or to tell you that you have to turn the water on outside at the dock. Hot water and pressure was good though. An adventure.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

8/10 Good

Kevin S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Houseboat Retreat
Loved the vibe and the uniqueness of staying on a houseboat. Loved the foodtrucks at the marina. I think there might be a leak somewhere in the forward head. There was a little standing water on the floor.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Team K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Boat Night
The stay was great, and would do it again! The boat was very clean and lived up to the pictures and description. Note: It was hard to find at first due to the area and roads under construction and it is not in a marina where you would want to walk to the old downtown district. Jut know you'll be driving to where you want to go. But overall great experience! Everyone should do this once!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Melissa

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Food trucks were wonderful. Houseboat was a fabulous getaway
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne M., Saint Cloud, FL

Liked: Cleanliness
Girls Trip- June 2022
We had so much fun and hope to return soon. We loved the upgrades, like the amazing shower head with decent water pressure. Very appreciated after a long, hot day. One suggestion: a shade umbrella on the deck for outdoor comfort would really make a difference. Leslie (and Desire) we’re very accommodating and immediately began assisting us upon arrival. We felt attended and very special. Thanks again for this unique experience!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

2/10 Terrible

Melynne S.

Disliked: Cleanliness
Great location!! Very convenient to everything! Nice & peaceful!!
Very happy overall, space was good and loved the location. We thought the furniture in living area could have been nicer, more comfy. We were there for work so wanted to wind down a little at night but couldn’t really enjoy watching a little tv before bed because of the size and comfort of furniture. Owner was very helpful and always quick to respond!
Stayed 5 nights in May 2022

8/10 Good

Jeny C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fun Experience
The boat was adorable. We brought bikes and biked all over St. Augustine. Great memories!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022

2/10 Terrible

Anthony, Hilton Head Island

Traveled with partner
Our stay on the houseboat was horrible and as cute as all the photos show, you are only seeing a portion of the surroundings. If the owner would have shown a 360 degree view, you would see [4] large food trucks w/ huge grease fans from their roofs. It just so happens, that these trucks are directly behind your houseboat and between them and your vessel is a row of outdoor seating. Literally on the edge of the seawall and in your face. When the food trucks are under operation the smell of fried food [times 4 trucks] permeates the air..so much for open windows for fresh air on the boat. The location gets better, no mention, that, US1, is maybe 60 yards from the houseboat. So if the roar of engines, brakes and screeching tires all night long doesn't bother you this may be the place for you? On the vessel interior. The owners photos are accurate and the vessel is cutely decorated. The difficulty we had is two fold. First, upon flushing the head, the boat filled with a sewage odor. I am not sure if the holding tank needed to be pumped out, add deodorizer for heads or there was a leak in the bilge?? Secondly, in the large stateroom [bedroom] right at pillow level and maybe 16" from you face as your head lies on the pillow, there was a hole in the wall, large enough for bugs or mice to go thru. Needless to say, we departed after the first night. I have used VRBO and Expedia for over 10 years and this is the first negative review from me. Photos available upon request.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022

General property information

Check-In Time
4:00 PM
Check-Out Time
10:00 AM
Location
St. Augustine
Structure Type
Houseboat