Entire house boat

Dockside Retreat Aboard Savannah Rae

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Outdoor dining
Marina
Interior
2 bedrooms, free WiFi, bed sheets
Marina

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire house boat

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4800 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

View in a map
Augusta, GA
  • Place, Augusta Riverwalk
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Miller Theater
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Place, Augusta Convention Center
    ‪12 min walk‬
  • Airport, Augusta, GA (AGS-Augusta Regional)
    ‪13 min drive‬

Room options

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About the neighborhood

Augusta

Located in Downtown Augusta, this houseboat is next to Augusta Riverwalk and St. Paul's Episcopal Church. Guestrooms at this houseboat include kitchens, patios, and sofa beds.

What's nearby

  • Augusta Riverwalk - 1 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Miller Theater - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Augusta Imperial Theatre - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Augusta Convention Center - 12 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • Bell Auditorium - 12 min walk - 0.7 miles

Getting around

  • Augusta Regional Airport (AGS) - 14 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Tipsey McStumbles - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Emils - ‬13 min walk
  • ‪Joe's Underground - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Modjeska Theatre and Bar - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪The Loft - ‬13 min walk

About this property

Dockside Retreat Aboard Savannah Rae

Welcome aboard Savannah Rae, docked inside the 5th Street Marina’s gated community in Downtown Augusta. This refined riverfront retreat sits directly on the Savannah River, offering stunning sunrise and sunset views from the interior living space, either of the two private patios, and rooftop deck. The open layout features a full kitchen, inviting living area, and a queen suite with direct outdoor access. Less than 5 miles from Augusta National and located on the IRONMAN swim course.

Outdoor Living
• Front, rear, and rooftop patios
• Seating for four on each level
• Direct riverfront views
• Views of Freedom Bridge and the active 1912 Southern Railroad Bridge
• Charcoal grill with grilling accessories
• U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets

Important: Trains cross the bridge at all hours. A nighttime crossing (10pm–8am) is very likely and may wake you. Many guests say the rumble and horn are a highlight of their stay.

Living & Dining
• 55” 4K UHD Smart TV with Roku
• Futon sofa and leather lounge chair
• High-top dining table for four
• Dedicated WiFi

Kitchen & Wet Bar
• Refrigerator/freezer, dishwasher, microwave
• Countertop convection oven & two-burner cooktop
• Cookware, dinnerware & silverware
• Keurig with Starbucks K-Cups, sugar & creamers
• Electric kettle & French press
• Propane oven disconnected for safety

Bedroom – Queen Suite
• Queen bed
• 40” Smart TV with Roku
• Sliding glass door to rear patio
• Bath robes
• Iron & ironing board

Bathroom
• High-end marine toilet with electronic controls
• Full-size walk-in shower
• Vanity
• Stocked with shower essentials

Laundry
• Full-size washer & dryer
• Bring your own detergent

Climate
• Mini-split heating & A/C
• Separate remote-controlled wall units in living room and bedroom

Parking
Complimentary parking is available in the main 5th Street Marina lot during your stay. Detailed access instructions, including gated entry information, will be provided on the day of check-in.

Access
Guests have full access to the entire interior and exterior of the houseboat, including all patios and rooftop deck.

Meet Your Host

I’m Greg, I operate Stay Augusta, a hospitality brand that manages and co-hosts a collection of distinctive properties throughout downtown Augusta, including Savannah Rae! Each space has its own personality—some float, some don’t. Some feature soaring 12-foot ceilings, others are cozy and compact. Every one is thoughtfully maintained and unique in its own way.

I also own Paddle Augusta, located here at the marina just steps from the boat. From April through September, I offer guided kayak tours and rentals on the Savannah River. As my guest, you’re welcome to join a tour or take out a kayak at no charge. Whether it’s a full tour or a quiet paddle, you’ll likely leave knowing a little more about Augusta—and the river that defines it.

I’m laid back, hands-on, and genuinely enjoy meeting people. Hospitality and the river are what I do—and I’m glad to share both with you.

Glamping
Savannah Rae is best described as elevated glamping. The only real difference between a camper and a houseboat is what’s beneath you—here, it’s the Savannah River. You’ll enjoy modern comforts in a unique dockside setting.

The Savannah River
The river is home to a wide variety of wildlife. The exterior perimeter of the boat is treated prior to check-in to reduce the likelihood of insects entering. Keeping doors and windows closed will help maintain a comfortable interior environment.

Swimming is strongly discouraged. Jumping from the rooftop deck into the river is strictly prohibited.

Water visibility is limited, and natural debris and wildlife may be present both above and below the surface. Entering the river is done at your own risk.

Fishing
Fishing is permitted from the boat only—not from the dock. A Georgia fishing license is required and can be obtained through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources website.

Live bait and supplies are available at nearby retailers (Walmart is less than 10 minutes away). Early visits typically provide the best bait selection.

Marine Toilet
The onboard marine toilet operates similarly to a residential toilet but uses electronic controls rather than a flush handle.

Only marine-grade toilet paper (provided) and waste may be flushed. No wipes, paper towels, feminine products, or foreign objects.

Guests are financially responsible for repairs resulting from improper use. Marine plumbing repairs can range from $500–$3,000.

Georgia’s Department of Natural Resources enforces strict regulations regarding waste discharge into the river.

House Rules
• No pets permitted.
• All guests must be 13 years of age or older.
• Only registered guests may stay overnight.
• If daytime visitors will be aboard, please notify me in advance.

Ice
Complimentary ice is available in the marina gift shop during normal business hours for the duration of your stay.

Savannah Rea’s front and back patios have ample seating arrangements and provide exceptional views of the Savannah River, 24 hours a day.

Its rooftop deck has an obstruction free view of Augusta's newest attraction, the Freedom Bridge which allows pedestrians to cross the natural state border between Georgia and South Carolina and the iconic 1912 Southern Railroad Bridge that is still active today.

An open concept living, dining and cooking space makes for entertaining very easy while also providing unforgettable views through the large windows and sliding glass doors. A 55” Roku TV is hung in the front corner to avoid sun glare. The futon folds out to a full-sized bed, high top table sits four, kitchen has a refrigerator/freezer, microwave, toaster oven and small cooking appliances to accommodate any type of meal preparation. Coffee itself is not provided but a K-Cup coffee maker and french press are both on the wet bar along with your everyday coffee additives. Due to the stove/oven being propane, it is disconnected and cannot be used and the dishwasher is out of service at this time also.

A full sized washer and dryer is available for use with your own supplies.

Bathroom has full-sized walk-in shower, high end marine toilet, three shelf vanity and privacy frosted window. Shower supplies are not provided but there is an available hairdryer under the sink.

Queen sized bedroom has a large window and back sliding glass door for back patio access. A 40” TV has attached Roku where you can find complimentary NETFLIX. Left hand closet has robes and grilling accessories. An attached charcoal grill can be found on the back patio.

The indoor climate is controlled by a mini-split A/C and heating system which includes two separate wall units, one in the living room and another in the bedroom. Each have an associated remote.

Dedicated Wi-Fi information will be provided the day of check-in.

The main parking lot at the marina can be used during your stay and is free of charge. Information will be available the day of check-in for gaining access to the property.

The entire inside and outside of the houseboat are open for use.

VRBO Inbox should always be utilized before making direct contact via cell phone.

We don’t want any surprises when you arrive so these are the things to expect.

GLAMPING - The only difference between the houseboat and a camper is the ground beneath or lack thereof.

SAVANNAH RIVER - Many different species of wildlife call this home and will make a presence when the time is right. The exterior perimeter is sprayed often to lessen the chance of any insects from entering the boat. Keeping the windows and doors closed will also help tremendously. It is strongly encouraged NOT TO SWIM IN THE RIVER AND STRICTLY PROHIBITED NOT TO JUMP OFF THE TOP DECK INTO THE WATER. You will not be able to see clearly much father than 5ft in front of you when underwater. There are objects and wildlife on the bottom of the river, floating on top of the river and suspended everywhere else in between. Certain types of debris and/or certain types of species of animals that call the Savannah River home, can and will cause severe injury to you, your guests and/or pets, that could result in serious injury or death if any in which enter the water.

FISHING - Walmart (less than 10 minutes away) has a full fishing department where live bait can be purchased. Fishing is ONLY allowed off the boat itself, not the dock. Visit Georgia’s Department of Natural Resources website to purchase a fishing license and to read all rules and regulations before casting your line.

MARINE TOILET - Georgia's Department of Natural Resources has a zero-tolerance policy regarding waste entering the river. The marine toilet onboard is nearly identical to the one used at your home, except is controlled by toggle switches rather than a flush lever. The bathroom is stocked with marine grade toilet paper which is the only thing besides waste that should be flushed. A $1,000 charge applies to any waste system failure that is caused by a prohibited object being flushed.

PETS & ADDITIONAL GUESTS - DOGS ARE WELCOME. ALL OTHER PETS ARE NOT. PLEASE BE AWARE THAT THE ENTIRE PERIMETER OF THE BOAT'S DECK HAS AN OPEN RAILING WITH A TOTAL OF FIVE ENTRY/EXIT POINTS. THESE ENTRY/EXIT POINTS ARE ONLY GUARDED BY A SINGLE ROPE. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PET UNATTENDED WHILE HE OR SHE IS OUTSIDE. ALL GUESTS MUST BE 13 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER. NO EXCEPTIONS. GUESTS NOT ACCOUNTED FOR ON YOUR RESERVATION ARE PROHIBITED FROM STAYING OVERNIGHT. IF TWO OR MORE VISITORS (NOT ACCOUNTED FOR ON THE RESERVATION) COME ABOARD, PLEASE SEND ME A MESSAGE SO I HAVE A HEADS UP INCASE THE MARINA MANAGEMENT TEAM ASKS.
Guests can enjoy a TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a kitchen, a washing machine, and a patio.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the accommodation: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Ice maker
  • Lobster/crab pot
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Smart TV
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio
  • Rooftop terrace

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 2 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 20 steps to reach entrance
  • Area rugs in public areas
  • No elevator
  • Single level property
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Designated smoking areas

Services and conveniences

  • Change of bedsheets (on request)
  • Change of towels on request
  • Housekeeping (on request)

Things to do

  • Kayak

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)

General

  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Bed sheets changed on request
  • Garden
  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Locally-owned and organized tours and activities
  • Property does not allow children
  • Towels (changed on request)
  • Unit size: 800 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 25

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Rules

No guests and/or visitors under12 yrs are permitted on the houseboat. No jumping off the boat into the river.

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets
  • Dogs only
  • 2 total pets
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • This property doesn't allow children

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 25

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.

Frequently asked questions

What can I see within easy reach of this houseboat?

This houseboat is situated in Downtown Augusta, just steps from Augusta Riverwalk, and within a 10-minute walk of Augusta Imperial Theatre and Jessye Norman Amphitheater. You'll also find Miller Theater and Bell Auditorium less than a mile away.

Is parking available on site at this houseboat?

No, there isn't parking at this houseboat.

Is this houseboat associated with a casino?

No, this houseboat is not connected to a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at this houseboat?

No, there is no indoor pool at this houseboat.

Is Downtown Retreat Aboard Savannah Rae a good place to stay for couples?

Couples staying at this houseboat will value amenities like a kitchen, kitchens in some accommodations, as well as a rooftop terrace.

Are there hot tubs at Downtown Retreat Aboard Savannah Rae?

No, this houseboat doesn't have a spa tub.

Does this houseboat provide breakfast?

No, this houseboat doesn't offer breakfast.

Will this houseboat allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this houseboat.

Does this houseboat have connecting rooms?

No, this houseboat doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How close is the airport from this houseboat?

The closest major airport to this houseboat is Augusta Regional Airport (AGS), which is 8.7 mi away (14 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Downtown Retreat Aboard Savannah Rae?

Yes, every accommodation at Downtown Retreat Aboard Savannah Rae comes with a deck.

Downtown Retreat Aboard Savannah Rae Reviews

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 16 out of 19 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 19 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 19 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 19 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 19 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Tyler M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Book now! The Savannah Rae was excellent, the Marina and its staff were a pleasure! Greg was outstanding with communication and detail! The Marina offers a sunset cruise right from the dock. Don’t miss out
Well lit at night
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Nita S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Overall everything was very nice. Even though we picked not the perfect time of year as it was very cold. The Savannah was heated and very comfortable. There was nothing negative about our stay but I will caution, I had taken my 90-year-old mother on this trip and the ramp going down to the dock was very steep. I was forewarned about the ramp, and thankfully mom was able to slowly navigate. We could imagine what an absolute perfect place it would be for a summer vacation.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Edith E.

Liked: Cleanliness
Loved the sounds of the trains, so awesome! So peaceful by the river, so calming. Had everything we needed.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brian K., Windermere

Liked: Cleanliness
The Boat was centrally located very conveniently and was exactly what you would expect from a House Boat. The area was quiet and safe for walking and we enjoyed our stay very much.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lawrence, Martinez

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great stay, wonderful experience. We definitely will do this again. Great, clean, everything your need for your stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

2/10 Terrible

Jonathan B., Beech Island SC

Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brian U.

Liked: Cleanliness

Unique experience

Life on the boat was great It was very nice A relaxing environment very close to the historical downtown area My only wish would be for the stove to be functional
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Krista D.

Liked: Cleanliness

River Houseboat

What a unique and fun alternative for accommodations while we were in Augusta. Our host was great and we enjoyed our trip!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

8/10 Good

Danielle C.

Ended up great

When we first arrived I was honestly disappointed. I read the reviews, I knew it was “glamping” I had never been to Augusta before. The area is run down, There are a lot of homeless people at the Marina. We were visiting our son that is stationed near the area and he was allowed a few days off base. My husband and son loved it and eventually I came around and by our last night I didn't want to leave. I wish we had more time. It might not be for everyone or a great first impression, but it definitely was a fun trip and a fun experience. We spent a lot of time in South Carolina, its close and had a lot more options for food and things to do. We went white water tubing and I highly recommend that. There was also a putt putt place close by and that was a lot of fun.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Hope C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Right Out of a Tim Dorsey Novel

I had one of the best times of my life. A little sketchy at times, but I blend in well. Thanks for providing the setting for a great adventure. A shout out to Aficianados, Broad Street Liquor was very gracious when my car got stuck on the City of Augusta's new power pole stud as well. Augustino's is within walking distance, and Riverwalk is impressive.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Maryanne S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Weekend trip

My husband and I enjoyed the experience of staying on a houseboat. It was just like glamping but with more space. We had river otters show up on the back deck and we enjoyed watching the train go across the river. The host was great at responding quickly. Convenient area to the baseball park and Riverwalk.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amy P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Houseboat for The Masters

What a fun way to relax after some awesome golf at The Masters! It is nothing fancy but very comfortable for us. Greg quickly solved a problem of depleted coffee and tea supplies and was a gracious host. Super friendly. It was quiet on the water, and we all slept well. The Riverwalk was really pretty, and we were right around the corner from iconic Luigi’s on Broad Street.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

8/10 Good

Barbara

Traveled with partner
Great back deck on the boat with a calm view of the river. Nice place to have a drink after a day of golf and shopping.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

marlou m.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great spot

On business … would come back for sure
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Laurie S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Relaxing on the Water

This was a great place to stay and enjoy the river from morning coffee to evening cookout. Also did alot of walking on the riverwalk. Plan to return!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kay S.

Liked: Cleanliness

This is the place!!

Looking for a quiet getaway? This is the place. My husband and I were looking for quiet and relaxation. We found it. The house boat is very spacious and comfortable. The bed is so comfortable; we slept like babies! Two heating/AC units keep the boat at a perfect temperature. My husband spent the majority of his time fishing and bird watching from the back deck. We are already looking to book our next visit to the Savannah Rae!!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Savannah Rae

Amazing to wake up on the Savannah River. Great Place to stay while visiting Augusta. The Host was awesome. I am definitely staying there on my next visit. You should too.
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Steve V.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful place to stay

I booked this place for a couple nights while attending a conference at the Marriott convention center just up the river walk. It exceeded my expectations. The boat was more like an apartment than a boathouse. Clean and spacious. Each night I sat having a drink on the upper deck watching ducks float in the reflected lights from the bridge. If you’re looking for a spot in Augusta this is it.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness

Great views, easy walk to places.

It was a great stay.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2023