Holidays Afloat have been operating houseboat holidays on the Hawkesbury River system for 20 years and specialise in combining value, reliability, economy and efficiency into a holiday package you'll never forget.

We know the river, we know our boats and we know what you want in a river holiday.

Q. Can anyone drive a houseboat, even if they haven't done any boating before?

A. Yes. No boat license is required. On the day of your departure you will be given a full briefing on the operation of your vessel by one of our staff. You will then be taken on a short cruise just to make sure you are comfortable before the helm is handed over to you. The only prerequisites are that you are over 21 years of age and have a good dash of common sense.

Q. How do I bring the boat into a wharf or jetty or back to the marina at Holidays Afloat?

A. Our staff take care of that for you when leaving from and returning to Holidays Afloat. You are not permitted to bring any of our vessels into a wharf or jetty. We provide you with a dinghy so that you can row into shore while you are out on your hire. When you are coming home we will meet you and bring the vessel into the marina berth for you. This ensures that you have a relaxing holiday without having to worry about maneuvering the vessel into difficult places.

Q. What happens if I need help?

A. Whilst this is unlikely you can relax in the knowledge that you can simply call us on the two way radio or your mobile phone during office hours. We will promptly respond.

Q. What is on the vessel?

A. Just about everything you can imagine including a dvd player on all vessels except the Riverboat 28', gas bbqs and sound system. Our brochure shows a floor plan for each vessel including sleeping arrangements.

Q. What do I need to bring?

A. Just your food, beverages, personal toiletries, cleaning aids, sheets, towels, pillow slips, your favourite fishing rods and good company. Bait, party ice and tackle are available at the marina. Linen can be hired if required. As there is only a small General Store and Bottle Shop in Brooklyn we advise you to do most of your shopping prior to arrival in Brooklyn.

Q. Where can you cruise on the river?

A. You can cruise the pristine waters of the Ku-ring-gai National Park, where there are numerous free public moorings.  Or through Berowra Creek and towards Spencer and beyond.

Q. How do I make a booking?

A. Simply ring or call into our office to check availability on your preferred hire dates. Once we have pencilled in your booking we will give you first preference for those dates with no obligation. To confirm your booking, a deposit is required and this is held as your security bond whilst on your hire.

Hiring commences from 8.30am on the first day of hire and terminates at 4pm on the last day. The exception to this is Friday and the day prior to a public holiday where the hire terminates at 10am.
Weekends (Fri - Sun) commence between 2pm and 4pm on the Friday or (Sat-Sun) commence from 8am on Saturday, with weekend return by 4pm on Sunday.
Deposit/Bond rates vary by vessel type and we reserve the right to vary this amount.
Fuel is charged on quantity used only. A small gas charge applies per head per day (for the bbq, hot water, fridge and stove).
Environmental levy - as all effluent is held on board (no discharge into the river) a small pumpout charge applies.
Pets, firearms, fireworks, fuel containers and candles are not permitted on board.
Payment in full is required on the day of departure. Cheques are not accepted. For public holidays, weekends and school holidays we require 50% payment 30 days prior to departure.
Dinghies - A dinghy and oars are included with each vessel. You may upgrade to a motorised dinghy @ $24.50/day..
Sundeck - All vessels are equipped with deck furniture, outdoor deck carpet and awnings (excluding the Budget Riverboat 28')
Hire charges are subject to change without notice. Current pricing should be confirmed at time of booking. Once a deposit is paid the price is held firm.
Cancellations - the deposit/bond less a $50 cancellation fee will only be returned if notified 90 days before the hire period. If cancellation is made within 90 days then only if we are able to relet your boat for the full period and full hire cost.