Escape to Your Own Houseboat on the Blackwood River
Cruise, fish, paddle and unwind as you explore one of Western Australia’s most beautiful waterways. Your private houseboat escape near Augusta is closer than you think.
- Houseboats for 2 to 6 guests
- No skipper’s ticket required
- Full induction before departure
- Kayaks, stand up paddle boards and a motorised dinghy included
A South West Holiday Unlike Any Other
Leave the roads, crowds and everyday routine behind. Aboard a Blackwood River houseboat, the journey is part of the holiday.
Set your own pace as you cruise through 28 kilometres of pristine river surrounded by national park. Find a quiet fishing spot, explore by kayak, swim from the rear deck or simply sit back and watch the landscape drift by.
Whether you are planning a romantic escape, a family adventure or a relaxed getaway with friends, this is your opportunity to reconnect with nature and each other without giving up the comforts that make a holiday enjoyable.
Everything You Need Is On Board
Your houseboat is prepared with the essentials, so you can unpack, settle in and start enjoying the river.
- Comfortable sleeping arrangements for couples, families and small groups
- Fully equipped galley with cooking facilities, fridge, crockery and cutlery
- Hot shower, flushing toilet and cabin heating
- Shaded outdoor areas, barbecue and swim platform
- Kayaks, stand up paddle boards and a motorised dinghy
- Linen supplied
- Solar power with battery backup
All you need to bring is your food, drinks, fishing gear and sense of adventure.
Which Blackwood River Houseboat Is Right for You?
Storm | 2 to 6 guests
A spacious option for couples, families and small groups, with a full upper deck, shaded outdoor areas, front cocktail deck, rear barbecue and swim platform.
Ideal for:
Families, two couples or groups wanting more room to spread out.
River | 2 to 4 guests
An inviting open-plan houseboat featuring a large picture window beside the main bed, a bespoke galley, top deck and everything you need for an intimate river escape.
Ideal for:
Couples and smaller families seeking a peaceful, comfortable getaway.
No Skipper’s Ticket? No Problem.
You do not need a skipper’s ticket to hire and drive one of our houseboats. A current C class driver’s licence is required, and every stay begins with a comprehensive induction covering how to operate the houseboat, live comfortably on board, moor safely and navigate the designated cruising area.
The houseboats travel slowly and use straightforward forward, neutral and reverse controls. A practical attitude and careful attention to the induction are essential. Our team remains on standby throughout your stay, with safety procedures and support in place.
- 23 years of operating experience
- Certified induction on arrival
- Surveyed and compliant vessels
- Required safety equipment on board
- GPS tracking for guest and river-user safety
Your Days Can Be as Active or Relaxed as You Like
Your houseboat remains securely moored, but there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Hardy Inlet and the lower Blackwood River.
- Cruise through national park scenery
- Fish for black bream, whiting, tailor, herring and other local species
- Explore secluded stretches of river by kayak or stand up paddle board
- Swim, bushwalk, birdwatch or photograph the surrounding landscape
- Enjoy lunch by the water or explore nearby Augusta and local wineries
- Return to your deck for a barbecue, sunset drinks and stargazing
There is no fixed itinerary and no pressure to rush. This is your time on the river.
A Lighter Way to Experience the River
Blackwood River Houseboats is Eco Certified and operates from an off-grid base on Wadandi Boodja. Solar power, harvested rainwater, sealed holding systems, low-emission four-stroke outboards and low-impact swing moorings help protect the river environment guests come to enjoy.
Your stay gives you the freedom to immerse yourself in this special place while helping leave a minimal footprint.
Where is Blackwood River Houseboats?
The houseboat base is near Augusta in Western Australia’s Margaret River region. Hire-and-drive guests can explore the Blackwood River between Augusta and Alexandra Bridge within the designated operating area.
How long can we stay?
Weekend packages generally run from Friday afternoon to Monday morning. Midweek packages generally run from Monday afternoon to Thursday morning. Six-night stays are also available, subject to season and availability.
What does it cost?
Hire-and-drive packages currently start from $2,089 in the normal season. Rates vary by houseboat, stay length and season. Check availability or contact the team for current pricing.
Are activities included?
Yes. Kayaks, stand up paddle boards and a motorised dinghy are included with the hire-and-drive houseboats. Linen is also supplied.
Can we bring a pet?
No. Pets are not permitted because the operating area includes national park and private property. Guide dogs or working animals may be accommodated on Houseboat River by prior arrangement.
Is parking available?
Yes. Secure parking at the houseboat base is included.
The River Is Waiting
Swap traffic, schedules and screen time for open water, quiet mornings and uninterrupted time together.
Choose your houseboat, check your dates and start planning a Blackwood River escape you will remember long after you return to shore.
Questions before you book? Call Pam and James on 0439 959 638 or email admin@blackwoodriverhouseboats.com.au for advice.
- No skipper’s ticket required
- Full induction provided
- Eco Certified experience
- Secure parking included
- Local support throughout your stay