If you’ve ever dreamed of embarking on a holiday along one of the world’s longest navigable rivers, consider this your long-awaited invitation.
The Riverland is an 130 million-year playground that takes your breath away at every turn, and there’s no better place to experience it than on a houseboat. Imagine gliding past large cliff faces which tower over you, listening to unique birdlife, watching native wildlife and more – it’s the unique South Australian landscape is nature at its best.
Riverfun, a company founded in 1986 and based in the historic marina of Paringa, is a leading expert in creating exceptional houseboat experiences in the Riverland.
From its humble beginnings with a single 2-4 berth vessel named “Riverfun,” the fleet has expanded to include six magnificent houseboats, each offering a unique blend of comfort and luxury.
There’s a Riverfun houseboat for any occasion or setting you’re after; from Drift, which is a million dollar houseboat offering a luxury holiday experience for a large group, to the Aqua Squirt which is one of the group’s smallest most intimate, single deck houseboats.
While houseboats are the ULTIMATE summer trip to soak up the warm summer air, cold beers, BBQs, swim & skis, winter is actually a really popular time to book trips as you’ll find less traffic on the water and an incredibly relaxing time amongst nature (plus, just imagine hoodies, slippers, wine & port, board games, campfires, calm waters).
We’ve consulted the team at Riverfun to find out five compelling reasons why a houseboat holiday in 2024 is an opportunity not to be missed.
1. Explore the Riverland
The Riverland region offers a tapestry of natural wonders waiting to be explored, and what better way to do so than from the deck of a houseboat? With Riverfun Houseboats, travellers can navigate the serene waters of the Murray River, while taking in the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding landscapes.
From sandy shores to lush riverbanks, the Riverland presents a diverse array of scenery you’re sure to love (well, we think you’d be crazy not to!).
“The Riverland isn’t too far which is perfect and the feel of the community here is incredible… There’s nothing like being on the River Murray,” a representative of Riverfun Houseboats says. “Especially since the floods, there’s a lot of sandbars where you can moor and everything is so vibrant and revitalised.”
In the stretch between Lock 5 and 6, you’ll find ample opportunities for mooring in the Renmark township. There, you can explore various amenities such as hotels, pubs, and shops. Also only a short journey away, you’ll find the brewery, where mooring facilities are also available.
“The wide expanses of the river in Renmark offer ideal conditions for water sports enthusiasts, including skiing and wakeboarding. If you’re a newcomer, there’s local businesses offering wakeboarding lessons for the uninitiated to the sport. For a more leisurely experience, kayaks are available for hire with our houseboats, allowing you to navigate through smaller creeks and enjoy the beautiful surroundings,” she says.
2. Perfect timing with River Revival Vouchers
For those seeking to make the most of their adventure while saving a few dollars, the River Revival Vouchers present an ideal opportunity.
With the third round of vouchers now up for grabs, adventurers can enjoy significant savings on their houseboat experience with Riverfun Houseboats. These vouchers, coupled with the allure of exploring South Australia’s iconic Riverland and Murray River, make 2024 the perfect time to either give it a go if you’re a first-timer, or return for those who know what a fantastic holiday it can be.
“In the last round of River Revival Vouchers, we had so many people book a Riverfun houseboat, which was fantastic,” shares the Riverfun Houseboats representative. “A lot of people come who haven’t experienced the river before, so it was great to open them up to that.”
3. Great for groups
Houseboat holidays are tailor-made for groups of friends or large families seeking a memorable getaway. It offers the perfect blend of independence and camaraderie, a houseboat cruise allows each member of the group to customise their experience while creating lasting memories together.
Whether it’s fishing off the deck, enjoying a BBQ under the stars, or simply lounging in the sun, there’s something for everyone aboard a Riverfun houseboat.
“Houseboat holidays are great for families or groups of friends because you can do your own thing and make it exactly how you want it to be,” notes the representative.
4. Celebrations
From intimate elopements to milestone birthdays and lively hen or buck parties, Riverfun Houseboats a unique way to celebrate. Imagine exchanging vows against the backdrop of a picturesque sunset or dancing the night away under the starlit sky.
With optional add-ons such as onboard catering and partnerships with local distilleries, Riverfun ensures that every celebration aboard their houseboats is nothing short of spectacular.
“We’ve had a couple of elopements on board which is always so beautiful,” says the representative. “We’ve also had people hire chefs to cater stunning meals for special occasions as well.”
5. Supporting local
In 2024, there’s a growing emphasis on supporting local businesses, and a houseboat holiday with Riverfun provides the perfect opportunity to do just that. From caterers willing to meet guests onboard to retail offers from nearby establishments, Riverfun Houseboats encourages travellers to immerse themselves in the local community and experience the best of what the region has to offer.
If you’re celebrating someone special, Renmark Flower house and Zynski Bakes have blooms and bikkies, or wine and dine offers with locals like Paringa Hotel, Renmark Club & 23rd Street distillery have the drinks and dinners sorted for you, or just general bits and bobs from the general store.
“Upon booking ask us who you can contact & visit – let us & them support you!” advises Riverfun Houseboats. “We will all do our best to shape your trip and experience with this incredible place we all call home!”
To find out more about Riverfun Houseboats, head here.
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