• Do you need a special license to drive a houseboat?
No. We instruct every captain in the operation of the houseboat before you leave the marina. Since the houseboats can be tough maneuvering in and out of coves, however, we do recommend having a captain with prior boating experience. Also, you must be 23 years of age to reserve a houseboat.
• Are there anchors on the houseboats?
No. Because of the depth of the lake it's really to impractical to use anchors. We do supply tie up ropes that you can use to tie up to the shoreline.
• Do you allow pets on the your houseboats?
Sorry, we typically do not. Under some circumstances we may make an exception. Please call for more information.
• Can we pull a ski boat or waverunner behind the houseboat?
Yes, we suggest towing your boat behind your houseboat instead of tying it to the side. We will provide specific instruction on how to do so once you arrive.
• Can we run a tab against our deposit for gas, ice, etc.
?
Our home port, Shanghai Resort Marina, will allow you to run a tab with a credit card on file.
• Do life jackets come with the houseboats?
Yes, all houseboats are equipped with safety life jackets. We do not recommend these for swimming due to comfort.
• If we pick up our houseboat late, say 7 or 8 pm, can we still take our boat out?
Houseboats cannot leave the marina after dusk, so if you show up after dark, you will have to stay until morning at the marina.
• Is there a late charge for returning the houseboat after the scheduled check-out time?
Yes, $100 per hour.
• Are there holding tanks on the houseboats?
Yes, all houseboats have holding tanks that are pumped out at the end of every rental and taken to a treatment facility.
• How much fuel is on the houseboats?
Anywhere from 180 to 200 gallons of fuel will be onboard the houseboat when you board. This is enough fuel for either a Monday-Friday or Friday-Monday rental.
• What is the houseboat equipped with?
The boat will be stocked with toilet paper, and sheets when you arrive. We recommend bringing bath towels, paper towels, music, and food.
• How long has Norris Lake Houseboat rentals been in business?
Norris Lake Houseboat Rentals has been in business for 7 seasons in summer 2011.
• Are on the dock rentals available?
Yes, last minute and early/late season on dock rental deals are available.
• Does the houseboat have an I-pod plug-in?
Yes, All of the houseboats have very nice stereo systems with mp3 player input.
