Frequently Asked Questions
Following you’ll find a selection of our most frequently asked questions to assist you in planning the best holiday you’ve ever had! Tips for planning your houseboat holiday!
Electrical Equipment:
Are you bringing any electrical equipment onboard the boat? If so, we need to ensure that anything you are bringing is compatible with our power systems. Hair dryers, electric shavers, mobile phone and camera chargers are fine – anything apart from that MUST be approved! Failure to gain approval for any electrical appliances could result in damage to the power system for which the hirer is responsible.
Bedding arrangements:
We need to know how you would like the bedrooms on your boat made up to suits your group’s sleeping requirements. Some beds can zip apart to become singles so we need to know what configuration you would like the beds made up in. Example: 6 passengers on Margaylea could be 3 queens or 6 singles plus divans.
Q. How do I make a booking?
A. Simply phone All Seasons Houseboats on 1800 22 33 75 or on (03) 5023 3375 to discuss available dates. Or use our contact form online and we’ll get back to you. Once you’ve decided on the date and boat that best suits your group we will make a tentative booking for you. All that is then required is for you to pay a deposit of $1000 within 7 days. This deposit is deducted off your hire fee and once this is made your final balance is due no later than eight weeks prior to departure.
Q: I don’t have any experience with boats will I still be able to take the boat?
A: Modern houseboats are surprisingly easy to operate. Some of our BIGGEST boats are the easiest to drive – fitted with powerful motors and bow thrusters you will be pleasantly surprised! Our professional staff will explain the operation of your rental from bow to stern before you leave and after your practical instruction you’ll be on your way in confidence. It’s that easy.
Q: Do I need a boat licence?
A: We know it’s crazy, but you DO NOT! A full, valid and non-probational car driver’s licence is all that is required. The hirer must be over the age of 21 years of age. If you have a boat license that’s a BONUS, and you can hire a 15hp Tinny with us!
Q: What if I need to contact you while we are away?
A. Although once you leave our base you are on your own, but we are always available for our customers! Base contact is available 24 hours a day by mobile phone.
Q. Where can I stay if we arrive a few days early or want to stay on a few days explore Mildura by land?
A. Why not stay at All Seasons Holiday Park and receive “great” discounts on accommodation both prior and after your houseboating holiday. We are a centrally located and are 4 1/2 star G’day Parks with accommodation to suit everyone!
Q. What is there to see and do along the way?
A. There is so much to see and do on the river, including 2 wineries, 2 pubs, 2 golf courses and bush nature walking tracks, but don’t forget to relax along the way. On our website there are plenty of sample Itineraries we have planned just for you! We even have planned a wine lovers and golf enthusiast itinerary just so you don’t have to!
Here is a sample of a 3 and 7 day itinerary, which may help you in planning your houseboat escape.
Q: Where can I buy groceries?
A: Midway Marketplace IGA specialize in houseboat food deliveries and will unpack frozen and cold items into the fridge on your arrival day, PLUS they will even put your beer in the esky on ice! What a service, we couldn’t recommend them more, a great local family owned and operated business!! Click on the following link or we can email you one on request https://shop.midwayiga.com.au/.
Q: Is there fresh water on board?
A: You have plenty of fresh water onboard for drinking, there are tanks underneath your boat that hold 400-600 litres. This water is Mildura’s town water supply
Q: Things we recommend on bringing to make a FABULOUS trip
A:All you need to bring is your food, drinks, personal toiletries, binoculars and fishing equipment. Other things we recommend cocktail shaker, board games and cards, camera, pool towels, a good UV sunscreen, a themed party attire (because they are just too much fun), golf clubs, a guitar to sing around a camp fire… We could go on and on!
Q: Is the river fresh water?
A: Yes it’s fresh and yes it is good to swim in however caution should always be applied. There are no sharks or crocodiles. Diving is not recommended. Wearing PFD’s are recommended for adults and children. We can fit all children with lifejackets suitable for swimming and kayaking.
Q. Can I purchase a Gift Voucher?
A. You sure can! There’s no better present to give to a person who’s dreadfully hard to buy for. See our Gift Voucher page here.
Q. Can I bring my dog?
A. Yes we cannot wait to meet your furry friend! We have Pet Friendly Houseboats so you and your furry friend can have a holiday together. Please make sure you read the T&C’s prior to making a booking.
Q. What do I do with my vehicle whilst on our houseboat holiday?
A. Free secure car parking is available at the Mildura Marina. Please let the office know prior to board if you are brining a trailer and a caravan (as we will need to organise additional storage – no storage at Marina).
Q: How big is the fridge?
A: The fridge is a large fridge freezer with plenty of space. There are large eskies aboard all boats for ice and drinks or frozen food.
Q: What facilities are there onboard?
A: Supplied aboard all boats are bath towels, quality bed linen, including doonas and spare blankets, pillows and soap. In the kitchen there is dishwashing tablets, fly spray, kitchen sponges, tea towels etc. All boats have fully contained kitchens with microwave, stove/ovens, all cutlery, crockery and glasses, including wine and champagne. There are BBQ’s onboard. All boats have outdoor dining tables and chairs and sun lounges upstairs and full sun canopies. All boats have roof top spas.
Q: What fish are in the river?
A: Murray Cod, Callop, Redfin, Catfish and Carp as well as yabbies. Check the fishing guide on board. As the Murray River is NSW waters, you do require a fishing licence to fish. Fish licences can be purchased from us upon arrival.
Q: How fast does the boat go?
A: All boats range between 4 and 8 knots. Houseboating is a slow but relaxing cruise – time to unwind and rewind.
Q: How large are the ice boxes?
A: Approximately 100 litre esky.
Q: Can I bring my speedboat and tie it to the houseboat?
A: Yes you can, there are buoys along the sides of the boats and some boats have ski “V’s”.
Q: Do I supply my own ice?
A: Yes you can supply your own, or we can fill the ice box for you. Cost of ice is deducted from your security bond at the end of your trip. This is a very convenient service and our experience helps ensure that we stock the esky with enough ice to see you thru your entire holiday. Please let us know prior to the commencement of your holiday if you would like this service.
Q: Firewood: (May to October bookings only)
A: If you would like to have a campfire on the riverbank we can arrange for firewood to be stocked onboard your boat. The cost is $25 per load and the cost is simply deducted from your security bond at the end of your trip. Please note that we are unable to provide full or part refunds on unused firewood.
Q: Are there any tours we can do whilst aboard?
A: At All Seasons Houseboats we want you to have the best holiday you’ve ever had that’s why we offer a comprehensive list of attractions for you to help make planning your holiday a stress-free and enjoyable time and to ensure you’re able to make the most of your special time onboard and in/around Mildura!
