Pet Friendly Houseboats
A pet friendly houseboat holiday on the water is a great idea!
Bring your dog. Keep the family together. Make the holiday simple.
If you’re looking for pet friendly houseboat hire on the Murray River, this is the most straightforward way to travel with your dog. No kennels, no logistics, no stress — just your family, the river, and the freedom to explore together.
Our pet-friendly boats have safe decks, secure fencing, easy-clean interiors and plenty of space for dogs to settle quickly. It’s the easiest way to take a real break without leaving anyone behind.
Which Murray River Houseboats Allow Pets?
You are *welcome to bring them along with you on the following boats.
Clear, simple, no confusion. These are the boats built for travelling with pets.
Why Pet-Friendly Houseboating Works
Houseboating cuts out every barrier that makes travelling with pets hard.
- Your dog stays with you the entire time
- Simple on/off access at sandbars and riverbanks
- Big open decks and calm surroundings
- No boarding fees or separation anxiety
- Perfect for long stays, families, and relaxed routines
- Walking tracks and riverfront stops everywhere
It’s a low-stress holiday where everyone switches off together.
What to Know Before Bringing Your Dog
Straight essentials:
- Bring leads, bedding, food and clean-up bags
- Supervise dogs on deck
- Keep pets clear of the motor area
- Only dispose of waste on land
- Pack a pet lifejacket for non-swimmers
- Ensure shade and water during hot days
Nearby walking spots your dog will love:
- Mildura riverfront trails
- Gol Gol foreshore
- Outdoor areas at Trentham Estate
Pet-Friendly Itineraries
Trips that work well with dogs:
- 3-Day “Easy Start” Route – upstream – easy walking and calm waters. Cruise upstream, find a quiet sandbar, settle in, repeat. Low stress. Maximum relaxation.
- 5-7-Day Mildura Highlights – upstream – outdoor venues + simple moorings. Mix cruising with stops at riverfront restaurants, wineries and walking tracks with upstream cruising.
- 7-Day Slow Cruise Through Sunraysia – downstream – ideal pace for dogs and families. For travellers who want a complete reset—long days, wide skies and no schedule.
Everything stays flexible — you set the rhythm.
Best Boats for Travelling With Dogs
A simple breakdown for quick decisions:
| Boat | Capacity | Deck Safety | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amaroo | 10 berth | Fully fenced deck | Families + active dogs |
| Ruby Luxury | 12 berth | High rails + controlled access | Larger dogs |
| Iconic Luxury | 12 berth | Secure side rails | Dogs that roam |
| Extreme Indulgence | 12 berth | Open layout | Calm, settled pets |
Choose based on your group size, your dog, and how you like to travel.
Ready to Bring Your Dog?
Keep the whole family together and enjoy the river at your own pace.
Choose your pet-friendly houseboat and lock in the dates that suit you.
Preparing Your Dog for a Safe, Stress-Free Houseboat Holiday
We want you — and your dog — to have a safe, comfortable and stress-free houseboat holiday. A great trip depends on how well your dog adapts to the river environment, so a little preparation goes a long way.
Not every dog enjoys floating accommodation, and if your dog struggles, you won’t relax either. A smooth, enjoyable trip starts with making sure your dog is comfortable, calm and ready for the river.
Here are the essentials for travelling with your dog on an All Seasons Houseboat:
- Make sure your dog is confident around water before you arrive
- Bring their own water bowl, bedding and anything familiar that helps them settle
- Even if they’re not swimming, pack a dog lifejacket and let them get used to it before your trip
- Watch river currents when you or your dog enter the water
- Bring a towel to dry them off after swimming or paddling
- Always clean up after your dog on the riverbank
- Keep your dog leashed on shore to avoid disturbing wildlife
- Pack enough food and treats for the full trip
- Ensure vaccinations and flea treatments are up to date.
Available on
*Terms & Conditions:
- Pets must be declared upon booking and are only allowed on specific houseboats.
- Maximum of one pet per boat at any one time.
- The deck designs on our boats gives space for your dog to stretch their legs and expel some energy outside.
- We understand that your pet is a big part of your family life. Please note a $30 pet / per day fee applies to all pet bookings.
- Ensure your pet is leashed whilst outside on the river banks and please clean up after your dog.
- You will need to bring all your pet’s requirements, as no furry friends’ needs are the same.
- Also, we are sure that you will understand that no pets are allowed on houseboat furniture or beds. We reserve the right to charge for any additional cleaning and damages caused by fur, mud etc.
- If you need a pet-sitter, there are several good pet motels in the Mildura region.
- If you have a service/support animal, please notify us on enquiry or booking. You will need to forward the appropriate paperwork at least 8 weeks prior to boarding. If the boat you are sailing on is not pet friendly and paperwork is not available, we will not accept your pet.
For further information on booking a pet friendly houseboat, please give us a call.