lake powell houseboat trip

Lake Powell Houseboat Trip Itinerary & Navigating The Lake (Part 3)

By Author Jake Junda

Posted on Last updated: January 23, 2024

Categories Arizona , Travel Guides , Utah

If you are taking a houseboat trip on Lake Powell, how do you know where to go, or how to get around the lake? This massive lake in Utah and Arizona sets the scene for quite possibly the best place to houseboat in the world. But it takes preparation to plan your itinerary, navigate the lake safely, and anchor your houseboat at night.

This is Part 3 of my Lake Powell Houseboat Trip Guide. This section is all about what to do once you finally depart from the marina.

I share some sample trip itineraries with the best places on Lake Powell. I also cover how to navigate your houseboat around the lake, how to anchor at night, and other helpful information.

If you missed the previous parts of this guide, it’s best to start from the beginning.

• Part 1: How To Plan A Lake Powell Houseboat Trip: Assemble Your Crew, Book A Houseboat Reservation
• Part 2: What To Bring On A Lake Powell Houseboat Trip & Preparing For Departure

This post may contain affiliate links. Disclosure policy .

Where To Go On Your Lake Powell Trip

So, you have finally left the marina with your houseboat, what should you do now?

There’s no right or wrong way to explore Lake Powell. But, personally my favorite scenery is near the middle of the lake. And it’s also where the lake is less crowded. So I usually structure our trip itinerary around getting to the middle of the lake.

This means boating north if you are leaving from Wahweap Marina, or heading south if you are starting at Bullfrog Marina.

There are so many awesome places to go on Lake Powell it can be overwhelming to decide. But if you are leaving from Bullfrog Marina, you will probably stay in the northern half of the lake. And if you leave from Wahweap you will probably stay in the southern half of the lake.

Yes, technically you could make it to the other side of the lake, but you would burn a ton of gas and time. And I’m guessing you didn’t rent a houseboat because you want to spend most of your trip driving from one side of the lake to the other.

Or if you traverse the entire lake in a powerboat, you can do it a lot faster, but still, you would be burning a ton of gas. And you may not be able to fit your whole crew on your powerboat.

So we feel that the best Lake Powell Itinieraries strike a balance between exploration and relaxation. This involves setting realistic travel goals for each day.

If you are really serious about exploring the nooks and crannies of Lake Powell, I highly recommend getting a guidebook . There is simply too much information to cover in this blog post.

With a guidebook, you will have highly detailed information about everything there is to explore on Lake Powell. And importantly, you can still access the information even when you don’t have cell service during the trip.

But even without a guidebook, I can share some of our favorite places to explore.

Getting to those spots on the lake will somewhat dictate your itinerary. For example, if you want to get to Reflection Canyon from Bullfrog Marina, you likely won’t be able to make that voyage all in one day. So you will have to break up that distance into a few days of travel.

But you also need to keep your goals manageable, because you probably don’t want to spend too much of your vacation time just driving from A to B.

The three major factors for building the perfect Lake Powell Houseboat Trip itinerary are:

• Length of your trip
• What are you trying to see/do
• Available beaches to anchor

In our experience, the south half of the lake has many more suitable beaches than the north. So south Lake Powell trips seem to benefit from the flexibility of plenty of sandy beaches.

But if you are renting from Bullfrog Marina, your itinerary is influenced more by reaching the good beach spots.

If you want to see something that’s really far from the marina, you may want to structure your itinerary to break up the travel into multiple days.

Or if you have people showing up late or leaving early, you may want to structure your itinerary to stay closer to the marina.

It’s helpful to learn the major bays and side canyons to help get your bearings. The major bays and canyons on Lake Powell are (From South To North) Wahweap Bay, Navajo Canyon, Warm Creek Bay, Gunsight Bay, Padre Bay, Last Chance Bay, Rock Creek Bay, San Juan River, Escalante River, and Hall’s Creek Bay, Bullfrog Bay, and Good Hope Bay.

But when considering the size of Lake Powell, you only really need to familiarize yourself with the North or South side of the lake (depending on where you leave from).

Because logistically, most houseboat trips on Lake Powell just stick to one side of the lake.

Castle Rock Shortcut (AKA ‘The Cut’)

One important feature of Lake Powell’s geography is a small channel connecting Wahweap Bay and Warm Creek Bay. It’s called Castle Rock Cut or “The Cut” for short. When traveling north from Wahweap, it serves as a massive short cut to quickly moving north on the lake (and vice versa).

Without it, boats need to travel the long way around Antelope Island.

However, it is only open to boats when the water level is high enough. And with water in the west becoming more scarce, The Cut is open less frequently.

Even in the “good” water year of 2023, it was only open for one week in August. But in other recent years, it has not opened at all.

Still, it’s something worth asking about when you visit, because it can save about an hour of travel time.

Best Places To Go On Lake Powell

Listed South to North

Wahweap Bay (Lone Rock Beach)

Wahweap Bay is the southernmost bay on Lake Powell, and the location of Wahweap Marina. This wide open bay has plenty of space for boating and many sandy beaches. Surrounded by mostly white sandstone.

To the western end, you find Lone Rock Beach, named for the giant monolithic tower ‘Lone Rock’ in the middle of the bay.

Lone Rock Beach is one of the few campgrounds on the lake that allows car access. It’s a very popular area packed with RVs, trailers, campers, and more. For this reason, we typically avoid this area on our Lake Powell Houseboat Itineraries. But if you need to stay close to the Marina for whatever reason it’s a good place.

• Other Highlights (Ice Cream Slot Canyon, Castle Rock)

Glen Canyon Dam

Glen Canyon Dam is the hydrological dam built in the 1960s that created Lake Powell (actually a reservoir). If you are boating around Antelope Island, it’s only a short detour to visit the Glen Canyon Dam. Though, personally, I think it’s more impressive to visit the dam from the land-based overlooks like the Carl Hayden Visitor Center and Glen Canyon Dam Overlook.

Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon is probably one of the most famous landmarks in all of the Southwest. The canyons narrow into a wispy sandstone slot canyon with striking textures.

However, the most famous parts are restricted to paid tours that you access from land. Still, many boaters explore the lowest sections of Antelope Canyon, which still has some impressive narrow canyon scenery. You can hike up into it once the water ends.

Warm Creek Bay

Another one of Lake Powell’s largest bays is Warm Creek Bay. There’s tons of open space for boating and many large sandy beaches. There are some 4×4 roads with access to the lakefront here.

The landscape is still mostly white sandstone with minimal canyons and cliffs.

Gunsight Bay

This is where you begin to reach the quintessential Lake Powell scenery. Loads of red sandstone cliffs, buttes, and mesas. The namesake of this bay is Gunsight Butte, a rock formation that looks like the sights on a rifle.

The bay is a little bit more narrow than other big bays in south Lake Powell (especially when water levels are low). But there’s still a decent amount of sandy beaches and coves to anchor.

• Other Highlights (Labyrinth Canyon across the main channel is one of the better slot canyons to explore.)

Padre Bay has always been my favorite location to anchor at Lake Powell. This massive bay is surrounded by amazing red rock scenery, and plenty far from civilization that it never feels crowded.

It’s a several-hour drive from Wahweap Marina, and it’s usually what we aim for on our first day.

On the north side, there are several coves that offer great beaches to tuck into.

• Other Highlights (Cookie Jar Rock, Toilet Bowl, Face Canyon across the main channel)

Last Chance Bay

A long canyon with impressive tall walls on either side and tons of “fingers”. Not many big beaches, but still some smaller sandy coves that you can anchor.

West Canyon

Our absolute favorite slot canyon to explore on Lake Powell. It’s not ideal to take houseboats in, but smaller boats are perfect to take deep into the canyon.

If you are up for it, a several-mile hike leads to one of the best slot canyons in all of Lake Powell. Makes an amazing all-day adventure.

Rainbow Bridge National Monument

Rainbow Bridge is one of the world’s largest natural arches. It’s undoubtedly one of the most impressive landmarks at Lake Powell.

In the past boaters could drive right up to the arch. But with current water levels, it requires about a 1-mile hike in to visit.

I consider Rainbow Bridge the unofficial halfway point between Wahweap Marina and Bullfrog Marina. For logistical reasons, I consider it the maximum distance you would consider traveling with a houseboat before turning around.

This is about as far North as I would recommend going on a South Lake Powell trip. And conversely, as far South as I would go for a North Lake Powell trip. Even on a 7-day itinerary, it would still be lots of time spent motoring your houseboat to get here.

Ideally, you anchor the houseboat somewhere within striking distance and take the faster powerboats or jetskis the rest of the way.

Reflection Canyon

One of the most photographed locations on Lake Powell is Reflection Canyon. However, the famous view is actually inaccessible from the lake. And the view you get from visiting via boat is not really comparable. I want to make that very clear, because it’s a far distance to travel to find out that you are not going to see the famous ‘Reflection Canyon’ view.

Getting to this view requires a grueling 18-mile backpacking trip that’s an entire adventure on its own. (Read our guide to backpacking to Reflection Canyon ).

Hole-In-The-Rock

A historic location where early pioneers would cross the Colorado River. This narrow crack in the canyon rim is surprisingly one of the best places to cross mid-lake.

Fit and motivated individuals can hike the slot up to the rim for an incredible view of Lake Powell and Navajo Mountain in the background.

Escalante River Arm

One of the longest tributary canyons of Lake Powell. There are tall canyon walls on both sides and plenty of side canyons to explore. But, due to the geography, there are not many big sandy beaches to anchor a houseboat.

• Other Highlights (La Gorce Arch, Gregory Natural Bridge)

A dried-up bend in the river called The Rincon. This is one of the few places in North Lake Powell that reliably has long stretches of sandy beach. But being in the main channel, beware of wind and waves.

Iceberg Canyon

One of the more visually striking side canyons in North Lake Powell. Narrow with tall walls and several fingers to explore. Just a few potential anchor sites.

Halls Creek Bay

The second largest bay on North Lake Powell. There are plenty of sandy beaches and wide open spaces for boating.

Bullfrog Bay

The largest bay on North Lake Powell, and the location of Bullfrog Marina. Plenty of sandy beaches.

North Of Bullfrog

If you explore north of Bullfrog Bay, you can find even more interesting landmarks like Moqui Canyon, Forgotten Canyon, Defiance House Ruins, Good Hope Bay, and more.

Lake Powell Itineraries

Here are a couple of good sample Lake Powell Trip Itineraries to follow.

(Note that anchor locations are not precise. The water level is constantly changing what is or is not available).

5-Day Wahweap Itinerary (Our personal favorite)

Day 1: Houseboat up to Padre Bay to anchor

• Explore the “Toilet Bowl”

Day 2: Houseboat to Friendship Cove to anchor

Day 3: Stay put

• Explore West Canyon with small boats (optional slot canyon hike)

Day 4: Houseboat to Gunsight Bay to anchor

• Explore Labyrinth Canyon with small boats

Day 5: Drive back to the Marina

7-Day Wahweap Itinerary

Day 1: Houseboat To Gunsight Butte to anchor

• Explore Labyrinth Canyon with small boats (optional slot canyon hike)

Day 2: Houseboat to Rock Creek Bay to anchor

• Take powerboats to see Rainbow Bridge Natl. Monument

Day 4: Stay put

• Day of games on the beach

Day 5: Move houseboat to Padre Bay

• Explore Toilet Bowl

Day 6: Stay put, free day

Day 7: Houseboat back to the Wahweap Marina

5-Day Bullfrog Itinerary

Day 1: Houseboat to the Rincon to anchor

• Explore Iceberg Canyon with small boats

Day 2: Houseboat to Escalante Canyon to anchor

• Explore Gregory Natural Bridge or La Gorce Arch
• Hike into Willow Canyon

Day 4: Houseboat to the Rincon to anchor

• Explore Bowns Canyon with small boats and on foot.

Day 5: Houseboat back to Bullfrog Marina

7-Day Bullfrog Itinerary

Day 1: Boat to the Rincon to anchor

Day 2: Boat to Hole-In-The-Rock to anchor

• Climb up to the rim if you are feeling motivated.

Day 3: Boat to San Juan River Confluence to anchor

Day 4: Explore Reflection Canyon with small boats

Day 5: Stay put

• Take small boats to Rainbow Bridge National Monument

Day 6: Houseboat to Escalante River Arm to anchor

• Visit La Gorce Arch

Day 7: Houseboat back to Bullfrog Marina

Use these Lake Powell Itineraries to pack a bunch of amazing destinations and adventures into your houseboat trip.

Feel free to modify them to fit your schedule and interests.

Boating Around Lake Powell

But before you can go anywhere, you need to know how to navigate around Lake Powell.

If you only rented a houseboat, then it’s pretty simple. You can just worry about steering your houseboat.

Really, they are operated just like any other boat, just much bigger (and with a few more blind spots). That’s why it’s a good idea to always have your crew members help you keep an eye out for other boats or potential hazards.

Houseboating With Additional Boats

But most houseboat rentals on Lake Powell also include some fun add-ons like powerboats and jet skis. This makes it a little bit more complicated to motor around the lake.

If you have power boats or jet skis, you should tow them behind your houseboat when not in use.

After your safe and smooth departure from the Marina, you can radio to your other boat(s). Rendevous once you’re outside the marina’s breakwater (it’s like a giant line of floating tires that protect that marina from waves.

Put the houseboat into neutral and let it coast to a stop, then turn off the engines. Next, radio your smaller boat(s) to approach the houseboat from the rear. Have a crew member or two on the back of your houseboat to receive the other boat(s). There is a cleat on each corner of the back of the houseboat.

Tie your smaller vessel(s) to the houseboat, leaving about 10-30 feet of rope between your houseboat and smaller boat(s). If you have multiple add-ons, you need to stagger them with different rope lengths so they don’t hit each other.

Basic Boating Knots You Should Know

If you’re not familiar with some basic nautical knots, it’s a good idea to review the two big ones before your trip: the bowline and the cleat hitch .

The bowline knot is used to attach a rope to the front of your powerboat. This knot will likely already be tied for you, but it’s still a good idea to know how to tie one. It’s the best way to create a loop that’s easy to un-tie no matter how much tension is put on it.

Then you will use a cleat hitch on the other end of the rope to attach it to your houseboat. It’s good to review how to tie a cleat hitch , because you don’t want your ropes coming loose. (You will also use this for your anchor lines, described in detail later).

Navigating Lake Powell

Getting around Lake Powell safely and without getting lost can be daunting, even for seasoned boaters.

Luckily, there are mile-marker buoys along the main channel of the lake that are helpful for navigation. The main channel is essentially the former path of the Colorado River before it was dammed to create the reservoir. It runs generally from the northeast to the southwest.

In some places, the main channel is easy to follow through an obvious canyon with towering sandstone walls on either side. But other times it follows a less clear path through the wide open bays. This is when the buoys are much more essential to staying “on track”.

The buoys in the main channel form the easy nautical “rules of the road”. These green and red mile-marker buoys are numbered with their approximate distance (in miles) from the Glen Canyon Dam (the southernmost tip of the lake).

But depending on the water level, there are many potential “shortcuts” which you can use with caution.

For the most part, the buoys are close enough together that you’ll see the next one shortly after passing one. When you pass a buoy, check what number is on it, and then find the corresponding buoy on your map to figure out where you are. (This is when binoculars are extremely helpful).

Following the buoys will help you stay in the main channel, where you generally don’t have to worry about the lake depth.

To use the buoys for navigation, when traveling north (or upstream) keep the Red buoys on your right and green on your left. Or commonly remembered as “Red Right Returning”, as though you are returning to where the Colorado River enters the lake.

Conversely, if you are traveling south on the lake (downstream), you keep the red buoys on your left and green buoys on your right.

Within the space between the buoys, try to stay to the right side of the channel (just like driving in the US). Using this method creates two loosely defined “lanes”, allowing boats to travel in opposite directions without issues.

The two other buoy types to watch out for are Hazard Buoys and “No” Buoys.  Hazard “stick” buoys mark things like underwater rocks or other potential hazards.  “No” buoys are most commonly found as “No Wake” buoys surrounding marinas and in narrow or heavily trafficked canyons.

Exploring Side Canyons and Bays

But I’m sure you didn’t come all the way to Lake Powell just to stay in the main channel. When you’re ready to explore beyond the main channel, you can use the mile-marked buoys to locate Lake Powell’s many side canyons and bays.

However, once you leave the main canyon you will no longer have the convenience of the mile-marked buoys to guide you. From this point on, you will need to be able to retrace your steps to get back to the main canyon.

And there is always the possibility of unmarked obstacles outside the main channel. You need to be vigilant of submerged rocks, shallow areas, and more. The water level of Lake Powell is constantly changing, so what might have been a perfect beach in June might not even exist in August.

Some canyons are plenty big enough to explore with your houseboat. But in our experience, it’s always more fun (and practical) to explore canyons in a powerboat, jetski, kayak, or paddleboard. These smaller boats can take you all the way, basically until the water ends.

Be cautious around blind turns when traveling in narrow canyons. Sadly, there are always some overzealous folks who drive too fast around blind corners.

How To Beach The Houseboat At Night

Every night, you need to have your houseboat anchored to a beach. You should leave enough time to find a suitable beach and set the anchors. I would recommend reserving at least an hour for this process.

Driving boats after dark is prohibited so you want to give yourself ample time to find a good spot to beach.

If you have powerboats or jet skis, you can use them to quickly scout good beaches to anchor.

If you only have a houseboat you will have to carefully scout beaches with your houseboat while being extra careful of shallow areas.

If you are scouting with smaller boats, use the radio to communicate with the houseboat and tell them where to go.

Depending on where you are on the lake, finding a good beach can be really easy or sometimes very challenging. There are long sections of Lake Powell that have rock walls straight up out of the water on both sides. But there are also lots of expansive bays that have long stretches of sandy beach that could fit 10 or more houseboats side by side.

And in between those two extremes, there are loads of small coves or short beaches that are perfect for just one or a couple of houseboats.

The ideal beach will have soft sand, a reasonably flat area above the waterline, and a pretty steep drop-off under the waterline.

A flat beach is good for games and campfires, and a steep drop-off into the water will ensure that your houseboat engines have plenty of clearance underwater. And also if the water is deep enough behind your houseboat you can use the water slide and jump/dive off the back.

Long stretches of sandy beach are by far the easiest place to anchor for the night, but it’s common that you will be sharing the beach with other groups.

I much prefer the smaller, more private beaches/coves. That way nobody will anchor next to you, so you don’t have to worry about bothering your neighbors, or vice versa.

Having a soft sandy beach is the best scenario because then you don’t have to worry about damage to your boats and you also have a great place for games and campfires.

You also want to be sure there is shoreline at least the length of your boat on either side. The reason for this becomes clear when we get to the proper anchoring technique.

Anchoring your Houseboat

Anchoring is almost certainly the most physically demanding part of a Lake Powell Houseboat Trip. Specifically, digging holes for the anchors and putting tension on the anchor lines (ropes).

The two biggest factors that impact anchoring are the size of your houseboat and the wind speeds. The bigger your boat and the rougher the weather, the more secure your anchors must be.

If you have other powerboats or jet skis, I prefer to beach them on shore about 100-300 feet away from where the houseboat will go. Giving you plenty of room to maneuver, and leaving everyone available to help with anchoring.

Once the houseboat is just offshore from the spot you picked, make sure several of your crew members on the houseboat are ready to deploy the anchors. Have your houseboat captain drive the houseboat slowly straight into the beach.

Once your houseboat has come to a stop against the shore, keep the engines running at a very low speed. This will keep the houseboat pinned up against the beach while your crew secures the anchors.

Using the shovel provided on the boat, dig a 2-3 foot deep hole for each anchor. You want the anchor lines to be at a 45-degree angle from the cleats on the back (stern) of the boat. And 45 degrees is the minimum!!! You can honestly go up to 90 degrees if the beach allows.

Too many times I’ve seen an anchor set at around 30 degrees, then the wind starts blowing, the tail of the boat pivots, and instantly it’s down to like 25 degrees or less, and then the boat is in danger of going sideways against the shore.

No matter how many times we do this trip, people really struggle with the concept of the 45-degree angle. And it really matters. You lose a lot of leverage quickly when the angle decreases.

For boats 50 feet and above you are encouraged to set two anchors on each side. One at 45 degrees, and another between 45 and 90 degrees.

Once the anchors are buried in the sand, tie off the other end of the rope to the cleats on the back of the boat. It really takes about 2 or 3 people to put enough tension on the ropes and cleat them.

It is important to have high tension on the rope. Because slack in the rope can cause your houseboat to shift from wind and/or waves. And this swinging motion creates extra force on your anchors and can dislodge even a properly seated anchor.

So make sure the anchor lines are taught on both sides.

The shape of the shoreline also matters. You generally want a straight or slightly concave shoreline for easy anchoring.

Compensating For Water Level Changes

The water level in Lake Powell is constantly changing, so you need to account for that with your anchor ropes. If you stay in the same spot for multiple days, be aware of how that affects your anchor ropes.

Generally, in the spring the water level is rising so you may need to re-tighten your anchor lines daily to keep them tight. And you want to ensure that your anchor placement wont be underwater a few days after placing them.

In the fall the water level is decreasing. So you may want to loosen your anchor ropes slightly and maybe even back up your houseboat to ensure it doesn’t get too beached.

What Can Go Wrong Without Propper Anchoring

One night we were beached in the main channel and only dropped two anchors. The wind changed direction almost 180 degrees and picked up significantly right after everyone went to sleep. I could feel the houseboat moving too much and had a gut feeling that something was wrong. I went onto the beach to investigate.

Large waves started rolling across the entire width of the lake and coupled with high winds, they started pulling one anchor loose. The houseboat was rotating very quickly towards the beach.

I ran into the houseboat to wake people up to help. It took 4 to 5 of us pulling on the windward anchor to bring the houseboat back perpendicular to the beach. If the boat had washed up parallel to the beach, the propellers would likely have been jammed into the sand and possibly damaged.

The moral of the story, it’s better to be safe than sorry, and just because it’s calm when you go to sleep doesn’t mean that the weather will stay that way. Don’t let calm weather lull you into a sense of false confidence.

Securing Your Powerboats or Jetskis

Now that your houseboat is secure, move onto securing any other powerboats and jet skis you have. One of my other main complaints about Lake Powell Resorts & Marinas is that they don’t provide you with anchors for the powerboats or jet skis.

Their response is “There’s usually a tree or rock that you can tie it to.” I don’t know which Lake Powell they are on, but there are basically no trees.

And finding a rock that’s light enough to move, but substantial enough to use as an anchor can be tricky.

This anchor issue doesn’t ruin the trip by any stretch, but it is a mild inconvenience. The best strategy is to find a rock that is about the size of a big watermelon. Then tie the bow line (rope attached to the front of the boat) around the middle of the rock, then bury it under about 1 foot of sand.

This might be overkill, but it will give you peace of mind even if the weather gets rough.

Anchoring On Rocky Shoreline (Not Recommended)

In the rare case that you can’t find a sandy beach and might have to settle for something a little rocky. This is not ideal because it will be harder to dig anchor holes and your boats could more easily be damaged.

Instead of digging holes for anchors, you can tie off to really large rocks or trees. But in our experience, you would have to get pretty lucky to find rocks or trees that are up to the task.

We have never had to anchor in a rocky place, but have seen other people anchored in rocky coves before.

Luckily, the majority of the rock around Lake Powell is sandstone, which is not a very hard variety of rock. But still, sandstone could do damage to your boats with enough force.

If you have to anchor your boats on slickrock, it’s best to be in a small protected cove or inlet. This will reduce the amount of wind and waves moving your boats throughout the night.

I would never anchor in a rocky area if it’s in a large bay or high-traffic area of the lake.  There’s a high likelihood of waves bashing your boats against the rocks over and over.  If you find a protected cove, it should keep the water around your boats calm, and greatly decrease the chance of problems.

Anchoring Near Tall Canyon Walls

There are a couple of considerations when anchoring near tall canyon walls. In windy weather, canyons can provide a bit of cover from the wind and waves.

Secondly, canyon walls can provide some shade from the sun. You can potentially use that to your advantage. For example, anchoring beneath a wall to the west can provide some early relief some abusing afternoon sun/heat.

However, canyon walls can also pose some safety risks when it rains. Heavy rains can cause flash flooding that creates gushing waterfalls that pour over canyon rims. Beware of this danger if rain is in the forecast.

How Often Should You Move Your Houseboat?

How often you decide to move your houseboat is totally up to you.

Some people will choose to park their houseboat on day one and not move until the last day of their vacation. Others may choose to move the houseboat every day, or somewhere in between.

You can decide if it’s worth it to move to a new beach every day or spend a couple of nights in one spot.

The amount of time it takes to move the houseboat is pretty significant.

Consider the time it takes to pack up everything you set up on the beach, dig up the anchors, drive to a new area, scout a new spot, beach the houseboat, and lastly set anchors again.

The sheer length of that sentence should give you an idea of the many hours the whole process takes.

And also consider what options you have for getting your crew around the lake. Boat capacities are a key factor here.

If you have just one powerboat that holds 8 people, and your crew has 12 people, you won’t be able to take everyone simultaneously. This is a somewhat limiting factor especially if you are trying to do or see something as a group.

Otherwise, it’s beneficial to have your houseboat in close proximity to where you’re trying to go. And then people can take turns exploring with the powerboat.

Moving the houseboat usually takes a decent amount of time and effort. My advice is that if you have a motivated and able-bodied crew, then perhaps setting anchors is no big deal. But if your crew struggled with anchoring, then maybe it’s best to stay put and explore with your smaller vessels.

Moving the houseboat can provide a change of scenery. And it’s a good way to move your entire group to a new area (albeit slowly).

I used to really be motivated by the change of scenery, but the more times I have visited the lake, the more prone I am to leaving the houseboat in one spot. If you have a powerboat or jet skis, that’s a much faster way to explore different parts of the lake.

I also find that the burden of moving the houseboat falls unequally on the people driving the boats and digging the anchor holes. So the days that I feel truly relaxed are when the houseboat doesn’t move.

Tips For Daily Life on Lake Powell

Sharing a houseboat with a large group is really fun, but it does require some organization to ensure that it’s not overflowing with people and gear.

So lastly, I want to share some tips for staying organized and enjoying the lake with a big group.

Organization

As I mentioned before, having people sleep on the roof of the houseboat and on the beach is one of the best ways to provide everyone with a comfortable spot for sleeping.

We also found it helpful to divide the bedrooms up for people to put their personal stuff in. It’s not necessarily where they will sleep, but just a room where they can change clothes or have a little personal space if needed.

Likewise, you should divide up the cabinet space in the kitchen/dining room area. That way people know exactly where to find their food, and it’s not all mixed together.

Then stack beer, water, and coolers as efficiently as you can in the corners of the kitchen/dining room area. The stack will get smaller as you consume it.

Keeping Tidy

The boat will get messy quickly with so many people sharing a small space.

So encourage everyone to tidy up daily, or multiple times a day. Try to get everyone in the habit of putting food and other things away after they are finished.

We found it helpful to have a Sharpie in the kitchen so people could label their drinks or whatever. This will help cut down on the number of “wounded soldiers”.

The boat comes with a broom and dust-pan, which are key for battling all the sand that is going to come into the cabin. You can try to minimize the amount of sand, but it’s coming in, so don’t worry too much. 

Keeping your trash to a minimum starts before you even get on the boat.  With everything you bring, consider how much space it will take up on the boat.

Small decisions when you are packing and buying supplies can make a big difference.  So, like I mentioned before, try to avoid bringing cases of water bottles.

Don’t bring glass. Aluminum and plastic are not only lighter, but also can be crushed after you’re finished with them.

To make things easier, every boat comes with a can crusher mounted on the front deck.  Crush everything you can, seriously, the trash will accumulate quickly.

When you’re deciding what foods to bring, consider the amount of waste they create.  For example, say you wanted to have corn on the cob every night because it’s a cheap and delicious summer food. But now consider how many ears of corn you will have in your trash by the end of the trip.

While on the trip, I like to divide waste into three different categories.  Trash, recycling, and burnables.  

Burnables 

Anything flammable like paper and cardboard can be collected in an empty beer box.  Then when you have a campfire at night, simply burn the whole box.

It can help you get your fire going and will also help reduce your waste.

Both marinas accept recycling. So dedicate a garbage bag or bin for aluminum, plastic, and glass. Do your best to crush any plastic and aluminum to save space.

Everything else can go into the trash. If you’ve planned efficiently, your total trash amounts should be pretty low. Once you fill up the trash can in the kitchen, tie it off and take it to the back deck. Every houseboat comes with a standard trash barrel and lid.  You want to save this space strictly for trash bags. You can leave your bags of recycling sitting out next to the trash barrel.

Pest Control

They recommend using aluminum pie pans to stop mice from using your anchor lines to board your houseboat. Cut a slit into the center of the pans and then slide them onto your anchor lines. Admittedly, we’ve never done this because it isn’t always necessary.

A few easy steps to take against mice are keeping the lid of your trash barrel closed at all times and keeping the doors to your houseboat shut at night.

They may try to get into your recycling, but it will be much less of a problem than if they get into your trash.

We had mice chew up our recycling bags a little bit this past year, but finding mostly aluminum cans, they probably gave up.

Plus, they can only really do it at night, because during the day there is far too much activity for them to hang around.

The other pest we’ve encountered are flies. They’re small flies that thankfully don’t bite, but they can show up in overwhelming numbers. Especially around dusk and after dark.

We tried our best to keep the houseboat doors closed after dark, but it was pretty futile.  The flies inevitably got in by the hundreds, maybe thousands. They are attracted to light, and mostly just swarm any lights that are on inside your houseboat.

So it’s definitely a good idea to keep bedroom doors closed and lights off.

But this has only been a problem for us certain years.

Electricity

You charge the houseboat batteries using the gas-powered generator on the back deck. Then use the breakers to provide power to different parts of the houseboat.

This breaker control panel is divided into two sections, battery power and generator power.

While the generator is running, you can power electricity via the generator. But also, the generator charges the houseboat batteries, which can be used when the generator is off.

It’s good to only use what you need to conserve power. We have found that running the generator for about 2 hours per day covers all our electricity needs.

We used electricity for lights, phones, cameras, coffee maker, microwave, and probably a few other things I’m forgetting.

The toilet(s) on the houseboat are pretty simple to use (but not like a normal toilet).

There’s an electric pump that uses lake water to fill the toilets. Depress the foot pedal to flush the contents.

After the bowl has been cleared, lift up on the foot pedal to refill the toilet bowl. The water in the bowl ensures the toilet is ready for another use, and it prevents smells from coming up from the black water tank.

You also will be supplied with a water treatment solution. You should follow the instructions on the bottle and flush the solution into the black water tanks daily. This is another critical step for preventing odors.

There are black water pump out stations around the lake.

We have never personally used them. But certain years, there have definitely been some foul smells coming from the black water tanks into the houseboat.

Conclusion | Lake Powell Houseboating Trip

Despite all the traveling Emily and I have done, Lake Powell Houseboat Trips remain our favorite vacation.

There is just no feeling quite like exploring the remote desert with a boat loaded with friends and family. The adventures, scenery, and memories are very hard to beat!

So we really wanted to share all we know so that you can pull off this amazing trip for yourself.

If you missed other parts of this guide, be sure to check out Part 1 and Part 2.

• Part 2: What To Bring On A Lake Powell Houseboat Trip & Preparing For Departure.

If you are planning a trip to the area, we have some other guides to our favorite spots.

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Lake Powell Houseboating

Lake Powell is located on the Colorado River and damned by the Glen Canyon Dam between Arizona and Utah.   This #1 rated lake destination is traveled by people from around the world year round.  People love to visit Antelope Canyon, Rainbow Bridge National Monument, Warm Creek Bay, Dangling Rope Marina, Face Canyon, Gunsight Canyon, Navajo Canyon, Padre bay, Warm Creek Bay and West Canyon.

If your looking for the funnest water sport business retreat or family boating vacation this is the perfect lake to visit.  We offer all the newest watercraft rentals for runabout boats, pontoon boats, wakeboard boats, surf boats and speed boats.  We have the largest selection of jet ski and waverunner rentals which can tow all types of fun toys.  Also enjoy our new kayak and stand up paddle board rentals.

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Your Ultimate Lake Powell Houseboat Packing List

Get ready to rock the waves! Discover the must-haves for your Lake Powell trip with our ultimate Lake Powell houseboat packing list. Smooth sailing is guaranteed!

Of all of the trips we have gone on, staying on Lake Powell is one of our favorite ones! There is something so relaxing about being in the middle of the lake, surrounded by tall cliffs, and disconnecting from the world and just swimming, eating, and exploring. 

Whether you are new to going to Lake Powell or are a seasoned veteran, this Lake Powell houseboat packing list will help you be super prepared and keep you from forgetting anything that you need to have a good time! 

Let’s get started with the ultimate Lake Powell houseboat packing list and send you off on your vacation prepared and ready to have fun!

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Lake Powell Houseboat Rental

Renting a houseboat on Lake Powell is pretty easy! The marina has several different rental options that are all in good shape! The first time that we went to Lake Powell after Josh and I got married, we rented a houseboat and it was SO NICE. The rooms were comfortable and there was plenty of room for everyone. This is the one we rented and we went with 7 people! 

To rent a houseboat, here is the website to do so! They have so many different options to choose from. The pricing varies between whether it’s peak season and how many days you rent it. You can also use that website to see what is included with your houseboat rental and what things you need to bring from my Lake Powell houseboat packing list below!

How to Pack for Lake Powell

Now, you might be glancing at the list below and wondering how on earth you’ll carry everything! Well, fear not, because we’ve got a nifty trick up our sleeves. We’ve found that packing all those non-clothing essentials into these trusty storage totes is an absolute game-changer. It not only keeps things incredibly organized but also makes lugging them down to the houseboat at Lake Powell an absolute breeze. 

When making your Lake Powell packing list, don’t forget to add totes to carry your stuff in.

How to Take Stuff to Your Houseboat

Getting stuff to your houseboat can sometimes feel a little chaotic once you get to the parking lot, but here are some different options that you have to help make it easier!

Pack stuff into your boat

If you are taking a boat down, you can put all of your luggage and storage bins into the boat before you launch it. Doing so can reduce the amount of things that you have to carry down yourself!

Call a porter

At Wahweap and Antelope, there are porters that you can call to come help. They are employees of the marina who drive around in golf carts to help people get to and from their houseboats. Some of the golf carts will have carts attached to the back that make it easy to put your stuff in! They are so great and you can tip them with cash or through Venmo. During peak Lake Powell seasons though, they do get really busy, so you may have to wait a while for one.

If none of the options above work for you, there are usually carts available that you can load your stuff into and bring it down to the houseboat yourself. This is a great option when the porters are busy. The hill can get pretty steep though, so make sure you have good shoes if you’re going to do this.

Bring a wagon

If you have a foldable wagon at home , it never hurts to bring it to take your stuff to and from the houseboat! You can also use it for other things, like hauling trash bags to the dumpster. If you don’t have a wagon, then it may be worth it to add to your Lake Powell packing list.

Lake Powell Houseboat Packing List

If you haven’t been to Lake Powell in a while (or ever), the lake is SO BIG. And it’s pretty remote. There aren’t grocery stores or restaurants readily available along the lake, so if you want something, you need to bring it with you! 

Even though this list may seem really long and intense, this is from years of experience! We have been adding and removing things from this list each year to make sure that we have all of the things we will need to have a good trip!

Keep in mind that this Lake Powell houseboat packing list is going to be COMPREHENSIVE to include all the things that you will need while out on the lake . Keep in mind that your houseboat may already have A TON of these things included so you don’t have to worry about bringing them!

Kitchen Packing List for Lake Powell Houseboat

The kitchen is probably where most of this Lake Powell packing list will come from haha. Mostly because food is pretty important, right? But keep in mind that your houseboat will have most of these things so make sure to check with whom you are going with or on the houseboat rental site!

One thing that I will say about your kitchen packing list that has been HUGE for us is to plan and prep your meals before you even get to Lake Powell! For example, we like spaghetti and instead of bringing all of the ingredients and making it on the houseboat, we will make the sauce at home, freeze it, and then bring it down in a cooler. When it’s time for dinner, we just warm the sauce, cook the noodles, and we are set!

• Pots and Pans
• Cooking utensils (spatula, ladle, spoons, whisk, tongs)
• Mixing bowls and measuring cups
• Cutting boards
• Can/bottle opener
• Pot holders and oven mitts
• Plates, bowls, and utensils (forks, knives, spoons) – We like to bring plastic or paper items to cut down on dishes
• Cups, mugs, and water bottles – Plastic cups are recommended!
• Napkins and paper towels
• Salt and pepper
• Dish soap and Scrubber
• Charcoal or grilling pellets
• Grilling utensils (brush, tongs, spatula)
• Marinades and seasonings
• Skewers and roasting sticks
• Portable grill (if your houseboat doesn’t have one)
• Bottled Water (A lot of this!)
• Reusable water bottles
• Juices and sodas
• Coolers and ice packs
• Snacks like energy bars, dried fruit, nuts
• Canned Food
• Food for Meals (Try to prep/plan as much as you can beforehand so you don’t have to worry too much on the trip!)
• Cooking oil or spray
• Ziplock bags and food storage containers
• Matches or lighters
• Aluminum foil
• Hand sanitizer and/or wet wipes
• Cleaning supplies
• Kitchen Towels
• Foldable Wagon

Cabin Comfort and Bedding Lake Powell Packing List

Let’s talk about the next most important thing in life after food: sleep. Sleeping on a Lake Powell houseboat is usually pretty fun! And definitely a step up from camping on the beach. All of the houseboats have staterooms with pretty comfortable beds. If you rent a houseboat, most of them will come with sheets and pillows. Always check though! This list below is going to assume that you need all of the bedding and such, so if it doesn’t apply to you, just cross it off your list!

Bedding and Sleep Essentials

• Sheets, pillowcases, and blankets for beds
• Comfortable pillows for a good night’s sleep
• Extra blankets or throws for added warmth
• Sleeping bags (if preferred)
• Mattress pads or toppers for added comfort

Climate Control

• Portable fans for air circulation in warmer weather (most houseboats have really good AC, so you don’t HAVE to bring this)
• Heaters or space heaters for cooler nights (cold nights are rate though!)
• Sweaters and layers
• Window coverings to block out sunlight or cold drafts (most houseboats have this already)
• Travel-sized laundry detergent (for any unfortunate accidents that may happen)
• Eye masks and earplugs for better sleep

Basic Clothing Lake Powell Packing List

If you are curious about the type of clothing and other items that you need when going to Lake Powell on a houseboat, this section is for you! Here is our go-to houseboat packing list. We tweak a few things, depending on how we are feeling, but the basics always remain the same!

• Pajamas and sleepwear
• Lounge pants and comfortable T-shirts
• Slippers or cozy socks
• Sweaters or sweatshirts for cooler evenings
• Shirts and shorts (we hardly ever bring pants unless they are sweats!)
• Undergarments
• Lots of swimsuits!
• Swim coverups
• Beach essentials
• Sandals/tennis shoes/hiking shoes

Toiletries and Personal Comfort

• Towels for showering and swimming
• Toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, face wash)
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Hairbrush or comb
• Hand lotion and moisturizers
• Razors for shaving
• Feminine products for women
• Makeup for women (even though you may not even touch it!)

Sun Protection and Accessories

• Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for sun-soaked days.
• Water-friendly footwear for walks on the beach and lake activities.

Entertainment and Electronics Lake Powell Packing List

Alrighty, let’s talk fun and games – because no trip is complete without a little entertainment, right? In this digital world, we’ve got to add it to our Lake Powell houseboat packing list for the ride of a lifetime. From cameras to capture those epic moments to board games for late-night laughs, we’ve got you. It’s all about finding that perfect balance between digital delights and the great outdoors!

Entertainment and Relaxation

• Books, magazines, or e-readers
• Portable speakers for music
• Board games, cards, puzzles, and other group activities.
• Coloring books or crafts for relaxation
• Water toys and gear for lake adventures.
• Inflatable Kayaks
• Life Jackets
• Camping Chairs

Electronics

• Charging cables for devices
• Extension cord for easier charging
• Portable chargers
• Waterproof cases for electronics near the water
• Cameras for capturing memories

Health and Safety Lake Powell Packing List

Finally, before we dive headfirst into the excitement of Lake Powell, let’s talk about something super important: your health and safety. We’re all about fun and relaxation, but a bit of prep goes a long way in ensuring a worry-free trip. In this section, we’ll cover the basics to keep you and your people feeling their best and ready for whatever the lake throws your way. 

• Basic first aid kit for minor injuries
• Basic medicines like Tylenol, Ibuprofen, and gas relief
• Essential medications and personal health supplies
• Knowledge of emergency procedures and contact information
• Communication devices for staying connected in remote areas (like satellite phones!)

As we wrap this post up, just take a sec to soak in the excitement! You are going to Lake Powell AND now you have your Lake Powell houseboat packing list! Trust me, this is your ticket to a hassle-free adventure. Now get ready to create some memories and let the peacefulness of this beautiful place wash over you.

Lake Powell FAQ

Is going to lake powell on a houseboat worth it.

Yes! Going to Lake Powell on a houseboat is for sure worth it! It offers an incredible blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. The gorgeous red rock formations, pristine waters, and endless opportunities for water activities make it a dream destination. Whether you’re seeking peaceful serenity or thrilling water sports, Lake Powell has it all. It’s a chance to create unforgettable memories with friends and family while basking in the stunning scenery. So, yes, without a doubt, it’s a worthwhile experience you won’t regret! 

What are the best canyons to stay at in Lake Powell?

Choosing the best canyons to stay at in Lake Powell largely depends on your preferences. For breathtaking vistas and serene beauty, consider Wahweap Bay and Antelope Point. Adventurous souls might prefer exploring the narrow twists of Navajo Canyon or the remote tranquility of Escalante Canyon. Each offers a unique experience, from water activities to hiking opportunities. So, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer; it’s all about what speaks to your heart and adventure spirit. Whichever you choose, you’re in for a memorable stay amid nature’s wonders.

Where you head will also depend on where you start! If you’re starting from the Wahweap side, you’ll absolutely love Last Chance, Padre Bay, and the serene San Juan Arm down on the south end of the lake. But hey, if you’re making your way from Bullfrog Marina up north, keep your eyes on gems like Iceberg, Forgotten, Escalante, and Moki Canyons. These spots are like nature’s paradise playgrounds, each offering its own unique charm and adventures waiting to unfold. So, wherever you decide to drop anchor, you’re in for an epic Lake Powell experience! 

Is there still water in Lake Powell?

Absolutely, Lake Powell continues to be a fantastic destination with abundant water for recreational activities. While water levels can vary seasonally, it remains a vast and picturesque reservoir surrounded by stunning red rock canyons. Whether you’re into boating, fishing, or simply enjoying the beauty of the landscape, there’s still plenty of water in Lake Powell to make your visit memorable. So, rest assured, the lake’s allure and recreational opportunities persist for you to enjoy. 

Meet the travel guru behind Simply Sid & Co! With extensive knowledge of Europe, South America, U.S., cruises, and enchanting cities, Sid the go-to expert for family adventures. From navigating travel with kids and finding travel hacks, to unlocking the magic of Disney, her passion for exploration knows no bounds!

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Lake Powell Houseboat Tips for First Timers

If solitude, world-class skiing, and mirror-flat water is what you’re after, you’re sure to find it at Lake Powell. Lake Powell has over 2,000 miles of red sandstone shoreline, with thousands of inlets and beaches to stake out as your own.

My family has been making yearly (or twice-yearly) trips to Lake Powell for the past 30 years. We’ve learned nearly every Lake Powell lesson the hard way. From coping with a sunken houseboat to septic-tank overflows to scorpion stings, here a few words of wisdom to consider before going on a houseboat voyage your own. 

Table of Contents

1. Be selective on who you invite

While people might be able to keep ideological differences, personality flaws, or resentments internalized at first, nearly everyone cracks by the third day under the American Southwest sun. Bring the people you want to spend time with – not who you feel obligated to invite. Loudmouthed Aunt Becky with questionable hygiene might be someone you share Thanksgiving dinner with, but she’ll make you want to jump ship after a few days in close quarters. A trip to Lake Powell is not a great substitute for therapy. Bring people you know you can get along with, and are sure to make happy memories.

Try to create a crew with diverse skills. Electricians, cooks, fishermen, mechanics, plumbers, and experienced boaters will always come in handy.

2. Go on a test run before the trip

You can pay for a one or two-night houseboating excursion on Lake Powell before your trip, where a guide will show you the basics of managing the houseboat. This experience is invaluable, and will save you both hassle and heartbreak if something malfunctions on your trip. Be sure to focus on securing your boat to the shoreline – it needs to be steady if a storm rolls through.

3. Get out of the main bays

Most houseboats on Lake Powell tend to stay within a short radius of the marina. It’s worth spending the time and fuel to escape from the main camping hotspots and find a secluded place to call your own.

Go prepared just in case things go wrong. The further you venture up the lake, the longer it will take for help to find you. A major storm once swamped our houseboat in Padre Bay, a short distance from the marina. Fortunately, help came quickly – but it would have taken hours to reach our houseboat if we’d still been up the San Juan arm of Lake Powell, where it’s much more remote. Balance safety with solitude.

4. Teach kids boat safety in advance

Lake Powell is an incredible destination for families, where kids can explore and create lifelong memories. However, Lake Powell is not the best place for energetic toddlers or children with a penchant for breaking the rules. Before the boat takes off, go over a few houseboat-specific rules like staying away from the props and running generator, and to always stay near an adult.  

5. Double check the gauges

The first day on the houseboat is hectic and stressful – so it’s easy to forget to check that all fuel tanks are filled and that the septic tank is emptied. After all, that’s what you’ve paid for. Imagine our surprise when after just a day into the trip, the septic tank was nearly full of strangers’ waste. The smell was so deadly, the only way to make it better was to duct-tape one of the toilets shut. Trust, but verify.

6. Keep your meals easy and simple

After a long day out on the water, nearly anything that’s served will taste delicious. If you want grandma’s famous 25-ingredient enchiladas, cook those in advance and freeze them for the trip. People tend to love grazing and crafting their own meals throughout the day and joining for a group dinner.

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Houseboating on Lake Powell Near the Grand Canyon

Set off on an outdoor adventure with the comforts of home at hand and explore 2,000 miles of shoreline with incredible scenery at your own pace..

If you’re wondering what stops to add to your Grand Canyon road-trip itinerary, consider a trip on a house boat on Lake Powell. Being on a houseboat allows you to set off on an outdoor adventure with the comforts of home at hand. Once you’re on board, you’ll be able to explore the incredible scenery of Lake Powell at your own pace. With nearly 2,000 miles of shoreline, Lake Powell is one of the largest human-made reservoirs in the country leaving plenty to be discovered.

Lake Powell was created by the damming of Glen Canyon in 1963 and sits on the border of Arizona and Utah. It’s a two-and-a-half hour drive from the Grand Canyon to Page, Ariz., which sits at the southern end of Lake Powell. The remote access at Lake Powell allows you to hike low-traffic trails, tube through the canyons or simply float in tranquility. With crystal-clear water and vibrant sandstone canyons, you’ll be mesmerized by the landscape as you discover new alcoves, arches and more each day.

“There’s so much you can do on Lake Powell,” says Luis Tena, who works at Lake Powell Resorts & Marina . “It’s especially great for families because it’s fun and safe.”

Sights to See Via Houseboat on Lake Powell

One of the most famous sites on Lake Powell is Rainbow Bridge National Monument located at the southern end. A courtesy dock is available for short-term docking while people make the 2-mile walk to the bridge to gaze up at the massive arch spanning 234 feet. This trail does require a permit.

Venture to Antelope Canyon , another popular destination, which is about 4 miles up from the Glen Canyon Dam on the east side of Antelope Island in Ariz. Here, you can wind your way through the canyon’s twists and turns along the sandstone walls. This is not to be confused with the slot canyon of Antelope Canyon on Navajo land, which attracts photographers from all over the world and cannot be accessed by the lake. The famous slot canyon of Antelope Canyon requires a Navajo guided tour and permit to access it.

Another point of interest to add to your itinerary is Cathedral of the Desert located on the Escalante arm of Lake Powell. After tying off your boat, a short walk away is a chamber with sandstone walls towering 1,000 feet above you. Additionally, across the bay you’ll find remnants of gold mines dating back to the 1880s.

Marinas that Rent Houseboats

In order to start your houseboating trip, you first have to decide which of three marinas to take off from. The first two, Wahweap Marina and Antelope Point Marina are near Page, Ariz. They have the largest fleets of houseboats and recreational watercrafts. Both marinas are located at the southern side of Lake Powell and is the most convenient location if you’re coming from California, Arizona, Nevada or southern Utah.

If you’re coming from Colorado, New Mexico or northern Utah than your best bet is to use Bullfrog Marina located at the northern part of Lake Powell in Bullfrog, Utah. Most people choose their marina based on where they’re coming from, but not all houseboats are offered at both locations so that could affect your choice as well.

There are three additional marinas, Dangling Rope , Hall Crossing and Hite , that don’t offer houseboat rentals, but do offer a variety of services, such as fueling facilities, snack bars and campgrounds.

Which Houseboat to Choose for Your Lake Powell Outing?

Houseboating is a unique way to explore nature with all the comforts of home. The houseboats offered at Lake Powell are equipped with kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms. You can choose from economy, deluxe or luxury houseboats and within each category of houseboat there are different sizes to choose from. The houseboats range from 46 to 75 feet long.

During peak season, you have the option of renting for five or seven days, but during the off season you have the option to rent a houseboat for three days as well. Rates vary depending on the time of year. During peak season from June 20 to August 21 prices are higher.

The cheapest rate at Lake Powell Resorts & Marinas is $1,728 for a 5-day excursion. The most expensive boats can go for more than $10,000 for a 7-day excursion. During the off-season, the prices range from $1,728 for a 3-day excursion, all the way up to $10,000 for a 7-day excursion.

Additional features can be added to enhance your houseboating experience such as a licensed captain to pilot your boat or prepackaged meals for you to enjoy. There are also a variety of water toy rentals to choose from such as jet skis, stand up paddleboards, tubes and more. Rates vary depending on the time of year you plan your trip for.

When Should You Rent a Houseboat on Lake Powell?

If you’re looking for warm water, long days and beautiful sunsets, summer is the best time to plan your trip. It’s the busiest season of the year, so if you’re looking for a quieter getaway, you might want to look into another time of year.

Fall is an ideal time of year to plan your trip if you’re looking for enjoyable temperature, warm water and less of a crowd. And winter is the perfect time to go if you’re looking for complete tranquility. With very few people around you, it’s easy to take in the scenery and tune into nature. The temperatures drop quite a bit however, with an average high of 45 degrees Fahrenheit and an average low of 24 degrees Fahrenheit.

Lake Powell is still relatively calm in the spring as water levels begin to rise. If you’re looking for cooler temperatures and less traffic on the lake, plan your trip in the spring.

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Your Complete Guide to Lake Powell Houseboat Rentals

This guide for Lake Powell houseboat rentals will help you plan your ultimate vacation surrounded in some of the most beautiful landscapes the United States has to offer. We go through the steps of how to book and plan your Lake Powell houseboat rental in this guide to help make planning your trip a breeze.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Overview of Lake Powell Houseboat Rentals

Lake powell house boat rentals basic information, when to book, how to book, how much for lake powell houseboat rentals, where your boat takes off from, getting to lake powell, lake powell houseboat rentals: on the water, places to visit on your lake powell houseboat rental, what to pack for your lake powell houseboat rental.

Located on in the reservoir of the Colorado River bordering the states of Utah and Arizona, Lake Powell is a dream destination for houseboat rentals. Imagine spending every day in the beauty of some of the best sweeping landscapes in the United States, sleeping under the stars, floating through the gorgeous canyons, and waking up each morning in complete solitude surrounded by natural beauty.

Lake Powell is a part of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area which is a conservation and recreation unit under the guidance of the US National Park Service.

When heading to Lake Powell you may want to schedule in extra time to do an Antelope Canyon Tour, visit Rainbow Bridge National Monument from your boat, or check out the amazing view from Horseshoe Bend near Page, Arizona.

These are just a few of the more famous natural wonders that make up the area and doing a Lake Powell houseboat rental is the best way to explore and take in the beauty of the area.

This guide for Lake Powell houseboat rentals will cover how far in advance you should book your Lake Powell houseboat rental, how to shop for your Lake Powell houseboat rental, extra costs to plan for with your Lake Powell houseboat rental, what to pack for your Lake Powell houseboat rental, and tips for your Lake Powell houseboat rental.

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-Peak Season is between June 21-August 19, during this time the prices will be much higher and very competitive to book

-Off Season is January 1-June 20 then again in August 20-December 31, if you’re able to you can save alot of money by visiting on the shoulder season as the rentals are half the price during these periods.

-Some Lake Powell houseboat rentals are as little as 3 days up to 7 full days. You can choose depending on the time of year and boat, most people book for at least 5 days and we recommend giving yourself all the time you can on your Lake Powell houseboat rental.

-Anyone who is over the age of 18 with a valid driver’s license can drive the boat. Before leaving the marina a staff member of the Lake Powell houseboat rentals will teach you how to operate the boat. Back to the Top

This is the most essential thing you need for a Lake Powell House Boat rental, actually having a boat. We recommend booking at least a year in advance if you’re planning on visiting during the peak season which is pretty much June through August.

For off season you will have more flexibility, be sure to check the weather too. For example, in April the average air temperature is a high of 68 degrees with lows of 43 degrees. That means you won’t get to enjoy many of the water sport or activities and you will have to plan your trip a bit differently for the colder temperatures. Not bad but one of the things you pay for during peak season is enjoying the prime time to do water sports and activities.

You can book your Lake Powell houseboat rental online or call 888-896-3829.

This is tough to give an exact cost because there are many factors here that vary that will affect how much your

Lake Powell houseboat rental will cost. Different models of boats hold different capacities of people and the prices dramatically change during peak season. During peak season you can expect to pay as little as $2k – $15k for the luxury boats, our boat was $7500 and can sleep up to 12 people. During the off-season, you can expect prices to be about half of that.

Renting the houseboat is the first step, but your cost doesn’t stop there. You must factor in insurance if you want to be covered, fuel for giant gallon size boats, and of course groceries.

Your gas prices on your Lake Powell houseboat rental depends on the size of the boat, we had two 300 gallon fuel tanks on our 59 ft boat costing around $1300 to fill up and we didn’t use all of the gas. We also had a speedboat with us that used about $600 in gas during the trip.

This will all vary on your travel style if you decide to have jet skis, boat, a big boat, move around a lot, but you should overestimate your costs on the gas just to give yourself a safety net in your budget.

Groceries :

This part is very tricky, our group came with a TON of food and thought we’d be in vacation mode and grazing the snacks all day. It turned out we overbought and many people went home with groceries. You should definitely plan your meals ahead and shop accordingly for how many people you have. We ended up eating less than usual on this trip for some reason!

Your boat will have a full but tight space kitchen, so you can take advantage of it. Be sure to bring extra coolers for any food that might not fit in the fridge, however, we were able to store cold food for 10 people in our fridge easily, we kept all our beverages in the coolers instead.

We recommend buying things in bulk and buying premade meals like lasagna for example since there’s minimal effort to cook. Other great products to bring are cartons of egg whites rather than eggs since they can break loading the boat and moving around, sandwiches, and other premade meats. Our boat also came with a grill.

To make things easier for you try out buying your groceries online and having them delivered to you! That is what our food leader Shawnee did to save herself some trips to the store loading and unloading groceries.

There’s also a Walmart in Page, Arizona . This is extremely helpful because you can grab any last minute things here OR if you flew in you can do all your grocery shopping here and it’s not far from Wahweap Marina.

We recommend being very organized with your meals and planning them all out and getting all your groceries in one go with a very neat grocery list by section.

We recommend bringing a few jugs of water or at least one big pack of bottled water as the running water isn’t on when your boat is in motion and moving. This way you will have some water if you forgot to fill up your bottle before heading out.

Don’t want to pack food/cook yourself? You might feel like being in full vacation mode. Don’t sweat it, you can do a meal delivery service or if you leave from Wahweap Marina you can pay an extra fee for a chef on board who follows your boat on another boat nearby ready to cook whenever you need it.

Drinks/Alcohol:

Since you are in a dry arid climate be sure to pack something to rehydrate with electrolytes. We had these liquid IV packets that we added in our water bottle once a day to help us stay hydrated.

Speed Boat/Jet Ski:

While you don’t HAVE to have a speedboat or jet ski, there are tons of perks to having one. Your Lake Powell houseboat rental is more of a base, any water activities you want to do will have to be done on a speedboat or jet ski.

Also, when you’re looking for a place to park your Lake Powell houseboat rental you might want to send someone with a jet ski or boat to go scout for locations not to mention ice and garbage runs to the different marinas, exploring the nooks and crannies of Lake Powell, and if there’s anything you need it’s easier to get on a smaller boat.

However, if you don’t bring your own they are very expensive to rent from Lake Powell houseboat rental place. We scoffed at the price of renting 1 jetski, it was going to be about $900 for the week, that’s almost the price to buy a used one and that doesn’t include gas.

Our brother luckily had a boat he brought, this saved us a ton.

Decide what you want out of your trip if you’re completely fine just chilling on the big houseboat then no need to add on that extra expense. But if you want the flexibility and convenience and fun of other activities, refilling your ice for the week, and dumping off trash you will want to consider adding this into your expenses and planning for it.

FAQ About Lake Powell Houseboat Rentals

This was one of my biggest concerns as we brought a lot of groceries and it felt like we would be living on a waste barge if there was nowhere to drop off trash somewhere throughout the week. Luckily, there are trash compactors and collectors at the various marinas throughout Lake Powell. You will need a map, they will provide one when you pick up your Lake Powell houseboat rental and make sure you plan your trash drop-offs with marinas.

Need to get more ice for your drinks? You will have to make ice runs to the different marinas. We made two ice runs throughout our 7-day trip starting our trip with fully loaded and cold coolers. Make sure you factor this in your budget, they charge about $5.50 for a 10 lb bag of ice which adds up if you have multiple coolers.

Sorry, no wifi at the marinas or on your boat. Chances are you won’t have cell service either, some people that had Verizon received random service in the most random places. Everyone with AT&T and T Mobile had no such luck.

Emergencies:

If there’s an emergency or your boat needs repaired or is stuck you can use the radio on the boat. I didn’t realize we had one and was worried if something happened (we had kids traveling with us) that we wouldn’t be able to contact help. No worries though, there is a radio.

Fishing is permitted at Lake Powell you will need to get a fishing license since most of the houseboating in Lake Powell is in Utah we recommend getting this one . You can find an up to date fishing report in the area at Wayne’s World.

There are two different marinas that the Lake Powell houseboat rentals take off from, Wahweap Marina in Arizona or Bullfrog Marina in Utah.

Wahweap is the largest Lake Powell houseboat rental marina and also offers a resort if you come in a day early or are exhausted when you get off the boat and need a place to stay before driving/flying home.

Bullfrog Marina offers less Lake Powell houseboat rentals from this starting point but is a great spot to start if they have your houseboat and you’re already coming in from North Lake Powell.

You will either want to drive to Lake Powell or fly into Lake Powell. If you need to get to Wahweap Marina you’re the closest city is Page, Arizona which has flights coming in from Phoenix and Denver on Great Lakes Airlines unless you have a private plane.

For Bullfrog Marina you either have to drive or use the private landing strips in Bullfrog or Halls Crossing, Utah.

Tip: If you’re driving into Lake Powell chances are you had a long journey ahead of you. We recommend coming in a day early and sleeping at Lake Powell Resort at Wahweap Marina. This way you will be down at the dock bright and early for your 10 am checkin and you will have had a full night of sleep.

Everyone in our group did this except for us and it took us two nights to catch up on our sleep and our first day we were in a haze.

We also recommend staying the night the day you return your boat. Most boats are returned around 3:30 pm and by the time you unload your stuff and return the boat its already 5 pm. Make the most of your trip and enjoy your last day on the boat by not worrying about driving home. We drove through the night home and wish we would have stayed the night.

Lake Powell Resort at Wahweap Marina:

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If you don’t have a pressing schedule and have time on your way home can stop and do an Antelope Canyon Tour or visit Horseshoe Bend right by Page, Arizona since they are all right there! You’re also just a 30-minute drive away from Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument!

Note: If you want to visit Antelope Canyon, the iconic photo spot, you have to do so by going on a tour. No DIY trips are possible. You can book a tour to Antelope Canyon in advance here , notify the tour company that you’re already in Page and they will arrange for you to join the group.

You will want to make sure you do not leave without a map. The Lake Powell houseboat rental should provide one, but it’s better to have more than one in case a gust of wind takes away your map.

You can buy a second map like we had here. 

Navigation: You can navigate easily through Lake Powell following the buoys with numbers marked on them. You will want to reference your map to make sure you’re going where you want to go.

Bring: Binoculars so you can see the numbers on the buoys from a further distance. This one has high ratings on Amazon.

You will want to gauge your distance the first day to see how long it takes you to get to certain areas. This will help you time your return back alot better.

This is important!

You will want to look for a place to camp and park your boat for the next night, or two, or three depending on what you find. This is where having a jet ski or a speedboat comes in handy to go ahead fast and find a spot. You will want to go through the various canyons to find a sandy beach to park your boat. You do not anchor your boat in the middle of the water, you park it on a sandy shore.

Finding a good spot can be competitive in peak season. Do not wait until it’s too late in the day to find a spot. We recommend finding a spot on your first day by 3-4 pm so you have plenty of time to find a spot if you’re running out of time. We found several beaches that were perfect but had someone there waiting for their Lake Powell houseboat rental to arrive. Someone even came looking for a spot where we were parked after dusk! They were in a stressful situation, prepare for your parking spot!

We stayed at each of our spots for a few days, you could move every day but it is a bit of a hassle. We made sure we found cool beaches to park that were private, had a place to play on the land, and good swimming spots. The place is FULL of spots like this, you just have to be patient and nab an empty one you like when you see it.

Remember that the further you go through Lake Powell, the more fuel you’ll use. You may also want to make sure you’re never a super far distance from one of the many marinas scattered throughout Lake Powell in case you need ice/gas/emergency supplies.

Tip: During our trip in July we experienced daily gusts of wind in the late afternoon , this sometimes led to rain sometimes didn’t. It’s important to be ready for the wind as you will want to make sure your inflatable floats, beach towels, and any loose items on your boat are secure or inside to avoid losing them.

Be mindful of your trash as well as if it blows into the lake without anyone noticing it will sink and pollute the water.

Most places mentioned below are actually best visited from an additional speedboat or jet skis and not from your Lake Powell houseboat rental.

South Lake Powell

There are several great stops in South Lake Powell, our favorite one we made it to is Rainbow Bridge National Monument which is an easy point of interest to get to by boat with a map otherwise it’s about a 15-17 mile hike to visit this monument coming from inland, yikes! This is also the world’s largest natural rock bridge!

Other points of interest include Padre Bay which you’re most likely going to pass through on your way to your camping spot. This is a good spot to do any water sports and also enjoy views of monuments such as the different Buttes that make up the surrounding landscape.

Navajo Canyon is another amazing side attraction and one we missed on our trip. This is the longest of the side canyons that run off of Lake Powell. You can adventure back on the 15.5 miles of twisty turns of the canyon for an unbelievable and unique experience in Lake Powell. You will need a speedboat or jet ski for this one.

Gunsight Canyon is located near Padre Bay and a great spot to park your Lake Powell houseboat rental if you have no idea where to go. There are 2 miles of sandy beaches here, monuments in the distance, and Gunsight Butte who’s shadow casts the perfect shade to give you a break from the hot summer sun.

North Lake Powell

Sadly there just wasn’t enough time in one trip to see it all or even make it up to North Lake Powell on our Lake Powell houseboat rental. Things we’d be interested in visiting next time around in include the Cathedral in the Desert on the Escalante Arm of Lake Powell. This is only accessible by small boat, kayak, or jet ski and it takes you to a magical narrow grotto to explore with a hole in the ceiling letting the light shine down and depending on the weather there could be a waterfall.

The Escalante Arm River is perfect for kayakers and Forgotten Canyon is one of the most unique spots you can visit from your Lake Powell houseboat rental as it has 700-year-old ruins built into the rock walls you can hike to with ancient wall murals!

Another great hike is Hole in the Rock , this hike takes about an hour and a half and leads you to the historic man-made site dating back to 1880 where Mormon pioneers were looking to pass through Escalante to Montezuma. There were over 200 people and they were stuck and spent 45 days blasting a hole in the rock, hence the name, to make a passageway for their horses, wagons, and people which you can still see today.

LaGorce Arch in Davis Gulch is another cool spot in North Lake Powell. When the water levels are higher you can take your small speedboat or jet ski right under the archway. This is also a great area to park the boat and hike or even camp.

Another must see in North Lake Powell is Moki Canyon and easily explored with your Lake Powell houseboat rental. These narrow, steep canyons are where the Native Americans of the area lived hundreds of years ago. Don’t miss out on experiencing the Anasazi ruins and petroglyphs you can see here.

Besides the obvious groceries and personal toiletries you’d take on any trip away from home we put together a mini guide of things you’ll want to make sure you also bring that are easy to forget but are essential to have during your Lake Powell houseboat rental.

Don’t forget a great float to relax on while your Lake Powell houseboat rental is parked! We brought several and used them everyday, just make sure you tie these down in the afternoon when the wind picks up!

Whether you’re with all adults or you have kids it’s important to bring some games for entertainment in the evenings! We brought card games for the adults and had some board games and playing cards for the kiddos, this is also a perfect way to wait out those daily gusts of winds and rainstorms that happen in the late afternoons.

The Lake Powell houseboat rentals come with a flatscreen tv and dvd player, at least ours did. You can check the specs of your boat to double check. This was great for the kids, and the adults when we needed the settle the kids down. Movies are also a great way to kill time during any unexpected rain.

Refillable Water Bottles

As mentioned earlier, we recommend taking advantage of the filtered water on the Lake Powell houseboat rentals. This saves you from having to buy bottles of water and create less trash. You will want to bring a few refillable water bottles , we even had water bottles to make mixed drinks in or drink our wine out of since they were easier to float around with in the water.

Eco-Friendly Sunscreen

You will be in the sun alot so do not come unprepared without sunscreen. we are loving these eco-friendly sunscreen brands as they are better for the environment. if there’s an absolute emergency and you run out of sunscreen it is available at the marinas..

You will be in the sun ALOT so it’s important to bring a good Aloe Vera in case anyone gets a little too much sun. We were very cautious and only got burned on one day, but were so thankful we brought a bottle of aloe for that time.

We love dry bags and travel with them all the time. These handy bags will keep your valuables from getting wet and ruined. We always have one when we are on a boat in case of an emergency you can throw your electronics, passport, and other important documents in it. Besides using for an emergency Scott likes to go adventure through the water with his camera and swim to different photo taking spots, he puts his camera in a dry bag to keep it safe while he’s in the water.

First Aid Kit:

Make sure you have a first aid kit for those minor cuts and injuries, plus to keep any potential wounds clean!

Did we miss anything? Let us know below!

If you found this guide on Lake Powell houseboat rentals helpful bookmark for later or share on Pinterest below.

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Folks often ask us what is there to do at Lake Powell. Our response - Lots! At Lake Powell, there is an incredibly diverse range of activities, ranging from the most supremely relaxing to the outrageously thrilling. There's houseboating , boat tours , fabulous meals , wakeboarding , waterskiing , dinner cruises , hiking ( North Lake or South Lake ), fishing , and lounging by the pool . And no one should miss Rainbow Bridge National Monument - the largest natural stone bridge in the world. There are tours of Antelope and Secret Canyons, horseback riding, and scenic tours. Only at Lake Powell will you find hundreds of secluded beaches that become your own private escape.

But the best way to make sure you enjoy every moment of your visit to Lake Powell is to plan ahead. So we've put together some fantastic itineraries as tips to make your houseboat, lodging, or RV/camping experience diverse and rewarding, so you can pack it in and do it all!

North Lake Powell at Bullfrog Marina, UT

• 3-Day Defiance House Lodge Vacation
• 7-Day Houseboating Vacation  - Traveling North from Bullfrog Marina
• 7-Day Houseboating Vacation  - Traveling South from Bullfrog Marina

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Houseboat Rental on Lake Powell - Lake Powell

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Houseboat Rental on Lake Powell

50’ Forever houseboat from Antelope Point Marina for 3 days/2 nights. Pros: Extremely helpful porter, easy loading and check-in Great orientation with Roger on the running of the boat Beautiful Views! Decent appliances Rooftop Deck stargazing Cons Boat had some age issues (broken toilet paper holder, cabinet door) Long wait for escort into marina (1st time over 1.5 hours, 2nd time just under) Paperwork issues in the main office (unable to find both on check-in and check-out) Boat Eats oil No Navigation lights! Even though we were warned that the boat might need an oil refill and were shown how to do it, it was a little unnerving to have the alarms go off in the middle of cruising down the lake. Once we figured out what was wrong, accessing the motor and filling the oil wasn’t a big deal, just be aware that it will happen (at around ½ tank of gas for us). The rules tell you to be tied up before sundown and please make sure that you’re safely moored for the night because there are no navigation lights. Be warned. Our unexpected delay for refueling left us racing the sunset one night. Reading several reviews that recommended having a scout craft had us a little worried since we hadn’t budgeted for one. We made it work without, but there were several instances (especially down Last Chance Bay – AMAZING!) where we wished we had something small to enjoy the side canyons - so much so in fact that if we did this again, we would seriously consider just getting a hotel and renting a speed boat. There are several links to Fred’s Liquor store maps in the reviews and we found them extremely helpful. Also we used the free MapFactor GPS Navigator (Android) and it was also really useful since it allows you to download maps before the trip. Used in conjunction with the navigation buoys and a paper map (provided for free) you should never find yourself lost. Just be aware that the maps are not going to be accurate since the lake levels fluctuate so much. It wouldn’t be out of place to bring some red flashlights and some star maps because the night sky out there is breathtaking. I knew that the stargazing would be good but we were all knocked out by the view. The night where we raced the sun to get anchored for the night was stressful, but it was completely erased by laying on the lounges on the top deck with a cold beer and just taking in the night and enjoying each other’s company. It was one of those times that all of us will remember for the rest of our lives.

My husband and I really enjoyed our 2 night stay at Lake Powell on our Caravan Tour. The lake is absolutely breathtaking. We did the boat tour of Antelope Canyon and to see "the place where water runs through rocks" was a thrill. I definitely recommend a visit to Lake Powell to see the natural beauty our country has to offer.

We wanted to have a seven-day family vacation aboard a 53' Adventurer with our adult daughters and our grandkids in early June. The boat we were given was at least 30 years old and worn out. After one day, the key to one engine jammed and could not be turned - with the engine running. We made it back to the marina for repairs just before they closed, and had to spend that night tied to the dock. While there, we heard scratching all night from rodents aboard the boat, and one crawled across my head while I was asleep. The next day, with the switch supposedly fixed, we headed out, only to have that engine die and the new switch have no power. This time, they sent a mechanic out in a boat to fix the problem. After an hour, he did. We immediately returned to the marina and demanded a refund for the trip. We only had the boat less than 48 hours and had two major breakdowns - not to mention the disgusting rodent infestation. I will say that the staff was excellent, and they issued us a partial refund with no problem. But we'll NEVER do that again unless and until they get new boats.

The placid waters of Lake Powell are surrounded by soaring red cliffs and towering rock formations -it’s like experiencing the Grand Canyon -on water! And the place is huge -Lake Powell has 96 major canyons and almost 2000 miles of shoreline.  We rented houseboat and moored in Weatherill Canyon near Dangling Rope. An early Colorado River runner found a rope hanging from the rocks in the back of the canyon presumed to be left by mid-twentieth century uranium mining expeditions. The river runners originally called it Hanging Rope Canyon, but over the years the name somehow changed to Dangling Rope. This proved to be a great area to stay as it was secluded, yet close Rainbow Bridge and Cathedral Canyon. Although Dangling Rope Marina is physically located in the state of Utah, all of the facilities are on Arizona time, since the operations of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area are controlled by Park Service Headquarters in Page, AZ. There is no road leading to Dangling Rope -this place is pretty isolated and inaccessible except to those traveling on foot, by boat, or helicopter.  All supplies, from the docks, to the gasoline, to the ice cream, all arrive here by boat or barge. Conversely, all waste and recycled materials also must be removed from the marina by barge.  This is one of the few places on Lake Powell that gets cell phone service -the repeater being located on nearby Navajo Mountain (the dome-shaped mountain to the northeast of Rainbow Bridge). Inside canyons, the signal has a hard time reaching the repeater. Try going to the large open bays. If you can see Navajo Mountain, you can probably get a signal.   Also,  Cathedral in the Desert, a geologic feature in Glen Canyon that was covered by Lake Powell is well worth seeing. It gained notoriety recently when low lake levels once again exposed this area. It is located at the end of Clear Creek Canyon in the Escalante arm. It is a large overhanging alcove with a pour-off waterfall. It’s possible to hike to the Cathedral but it is a long and strenuous hike that may involve some technical canyoneering. Most visitors boat to it. I could go on and on about this place but, really, one has to experience Lake Powell for themselves to understand what I'm talking about.

What a lovely Lake. Stop at the viewpoints along the way to take in this picturesque Lake. You can swim and go boating or take a Lake Cruise to see more. A truly lovely spot to see.

Traveling through the area, reservations a must, as summer crowds are already being seen. Because of recent surgeries, I had asked for a slot near the office for easier access to the showers. Couldn't have been a better location. Just a short walk, they put us in the closest slot to the road in Loop F. Bit pricey, but not unusual for the area. As first spot, no one to the right of us, just the road. Site was level, concrete, with a nice sized gravel area between us and the road. Gave us privacy; had room for picnic table, grill and fire pit. Nice view of the lake bed; note didn't say lake as it is currently at 46% capacity, 108' from full pool. As it's five miles off Hwy 89, very quiet location. Dark, as no street lights to speak of. Showers very clean, as were the bathrooms in the loop where we parked. Sure didn't like the $2 charge but gave plenty of water for 15 mins, more than enough for a great shower.

Houseboat | Lake Powell

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Luxury Houseboating

Made Affordable

The vacation experience at Lake Powell can only be described by one word: AMAZING!

One of the most critical parts of having an amazing experience is having the proper accommodations. A "base-camp" with all the amenities and features needed to make the most of your trip while keeping you and your friends as comfortable as possible.

Those amenities come at a steep price and a lot of headache  if you rent a houseboat. So don't rent.

Action 1 is one of the most affordable shared ownership luxury boats on the lake with everything you need to have an epic Powell trip! With an engaged owner group, a perfect slip at the best marina, jet skis, a wake boat, and luxury features, you'll be set for the best possible experience every year.

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Fractional Houseboat Ownership

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Owning a fractional share of a houseboat can be more cost effective for larger, more luxurious houseboats.

With the same week each year, you and your friends will know the exact dates of the annual Lake Powell trip.

Visit one of the most incredible destinations on the planet knowing you'll be on one of the best boats on the lake.

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How to plan your Houseboat Trip around Lake Powell Weather

There’s really no bad time to visit Lake Powell. For the most part, the weather is warm enough all year long to enjoy a sunny day on the top deck of your houseboat with friends and family. In the summer, records show that temperatures can reach up to 99 °F, making the water nice and warm for water sports and swimming. However, in the winter, temps can drop as low as 27 °F at night, so you’ll want to plan accordingly.

Here are some steps for planning your houseboat trip around Lake Powell weather.

Step 1: Determine what activities you want to do

There’s no better way to plan your houseboat trip around Lake Powell weather than to determine what activities you want to do. You wouldn’t want to plan your houseboat trip in the middle of summer if you want to hike around all day. You also wouldn’t want to swim in January (unless you have a wetsuit perhaps).

To help you decide what time of year you should visit, we’ve rounded up a few examples of activities and provided the best time to make your reservation.

If you like to hike...

it’s best to visit when the weather is cooler. Typically, the best months to hike are September, October and November because the temperatures are milder and there aren’t too many people on the trails.

If you like to fish...

you can visit any time of the year. Certain fish are more active than others at times, so it’s important to do your research before you finalize your plans.

If you like to swim...

it’s best to visit when the weather is hot. Summer is the best time to swim because the water is warm and the sun is shining most of the time. The best months to swim are June and July.

If you want to catch the best sunsets...

again, the best time to visit is in the warmer months (May – August), when the days are longer and the sunsets are unbeatable.

Step 2: Decide if you want to avoid the crowds

Holiday weekends, spring break, and summertime are some of the busiest times to visit Lake Powell. If you’re looking for a more tranquil experience, we suggest booking your reservation when the weather is cooler (October – February).

Step 3: Check for special offers

No matter what time of year you plan on visiting, make sure to check out our special offers page or give us a call to see what deals we are currently running.

At Antelope Point Marina, we offer some of the best houseboating experiences on Lake Powell. Whether you’re looking to swim, hike or relax on the deck and watch a sunset, it’s best to plan around Lake Powell weather to get what you want out of your trip. Visit our website to learn more.

Antelope Point Holdings LLC Is an authorized Concessioner of the National Park Service Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and a Lessee of the Navajo Nation

• Tel: +1.928.645.5900

537 Marina Parkway HWY N22 B Page, AZ 86040

• Cancellation Policy

On the Shores of Lake Powell, The Navajo Nation – In the Grand Canyon State of Arizona Copyright © 2024 Antelope Point Marina | All Rights Reserved.