San Francisco Chronicle - (Sunday)
HOW TO CRUISE CALIFORNIA’S HOUSEBOAT CAPITAL.
Houseboat life is all about relaxation. You’re living on the water, soaking up the summer sun and exploring the coastline at your own pace.
With its 365 miles of shoreline and summer water temperatures reaching 78 degrees, it’s no wonder that Shasta Lake, the state’s largest man-made reservoir, is considered the houseboating capital of California. Best known for its water sports, like swimming, tubing, kayaking and waterskiing, the lake’s shore has plenty of land activities, from hiking trails to 200 million-year-old Shasta Caverns.
Renting a houseboat isn’t as difficult as you might think: You need a driver’s license and must be at least 25 years old. Rental companies have made it extremely easy to get you going on your own aquatic camping trip.
Marinas and rental agencies on the lake have extensive lists of available boats you can scan online. First
time boaters, take heart: Rental companies provide an orientation that includes a walk-through of your vessel and a demonstration of navigational procedures such as beaching, anchoring, water safety, courtesy and maneuvers.
Since there are typically about 450 boats cruising the lake during peak summer season, it’s good to start planning six months to a year in advance, especially if you require specific dates. Here’s what you need to know.
The basics
Rental rates for houseboats can be as low as $900 for two nights, and increase depending on boat size and amenities.
Boats can range from about 35 to 56 feet and typically include bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens and lounge areas.
Pick right size
Give yourself a little space. Quarters on houseboats are close, and you might not want to pack 10 people into a boat that fits exactly 10 with little elbow room.
It’s best to look at bed and bedroom layout. Often, “sleeps 16” means that there are eight double beds, though there may be bunk beds or sofa pullouts.
Each boat is structured differently, and knowing what your group needs will help choose the right one.
Choose your amenities
Some of the fanciest versions have hot tubs, gourmet kitchens, water slides and satellite TV. Most have cookware, dishware and kitchen items. Make sure to get a list of what’s provided so you’re not stuck without bed linens or towels. Toiletries, hair dryers and first aid kits are often not provided.
Bring supplies
You’ll probably be able to dock your houseboat in marinas around the lake to resupply, but it’s easier to do all your shopping before you set sail. Even through most onboard freezers can make
ice, you might want to bring extra coolers and ice to save refrigerator space. If small children are in your group, check out boats that have safety railings, and ask whether you need to bring child-size life vests for your rental. And just like rental cars, the gas is on you, and it’s available at marina gas docks.
Set an itinerary
Popular attractions like Shasta Dam, Shasta Caverns and Samwell Cave are all accessible by boat. But away from the big spots, there are hiking trails and waterfalls to explore, too.
Some favorite hikes include the Greens Creek Trail (5.85 miles, ending at an old mining site), Sugarloaf Creek Trail (2 miles of forest) and Hirz Bay Trail (a scenic 2-mile walk featuring mountain vistas). Depending on the season, some of the best waterfalls are Waters Gulch and Bear Creek Falls — accessible only by hiking.