Entire house boat

Water Lovers Retreat

Choose dates to view prices

Where to?

Dates

July 2025

August 2025

Relax in a shaded outdoor seating area with a round table and comfortable chairs, overlooking a serene body of water and lush surroundings.

Enjoy cooking in this well-equipped kitchen with a refrigerator, microwave, and oven, plus a convenient island and ample natural light.

Enjoy a cozy living area with a comfortable sofa, patterned rug, and large window offering a view of the outdoors.

Boats docked in a serene marina surrounded by lush greenery.

Relax by the bar with comfortable stools and a sheltered counter.

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

Entire house boat

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 5

Popular amenities

Barbecue grill
Dryer
Parking available
Washer
Pool
Fireplace

Explore the area

Sanford, FL

Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
‪3 min drive‬
Seminole Towne Center
‪5 min drive‬
St. Johns Rivership
‪10 min drive‬
Orlando, FL (SFB-Orlando Sanford Intl.)
‪16 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Sanford

This houseboat places you within 2 miles (3 km) of Black Bear Wilderness Area and Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. Guestrooms at this houseboat include kitchens, fireplaces, and balconies.

View more Houseboats in Sanford

What's nearby

Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens - 3 min drive - 1.1 miles
Lake Monroe - 3 min drive - 1.3 miles
Seminole Towne Center - 5 min drive - 2.8 miles
Central Florida Regional Hospital - 8 min drive - 3.7 miles
St. Johns Rivership - 10 min drive - 5.2 miles

Getting around

DeBary Station - 6 min drive
Sanford Station - 8 min drive
Orlando Sanford Intl. Airport (SFB) - 16 min drive

Restaurants

‪Chick-fil-A - ‬5 min drive
‪McDonald's - ‬5 min drive
‪Starbucks - ‬5 min drive
‪Texas Roadhouse - ‬5 min drive
‪Cracker Barrel - ‬6 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire house boat to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Water Lovers Retreat

Completely renovated custom 50’x14’ stationary houseboat available for short/long term rentals. Enjoy the beautiful world famous St. John’s river. One of the only two rivers in the world that flows north. Be surrounded by its natural beauty and wildlife. Experience the luxury of waking up in your own private setting surrounded by nature.
This custom spacious 50’ house boat allows you to feel as if you are waking in your own private oasis. The beautiful and spacious 14’x16’ master suite offers you a private sitting area with a full size sofa, as well as a comfortable queen size bed, and 42” flat screen television, a nice closet with custom shelving, full bathroom with a fully tiled shower, vanity and tiled floors. As well as your own private 8’x14’ outdoor deck for your private coffee in the morning, or beverage in the evening.
The galley offers a beautiful leather sofa, which opens into a comfortable queen size bed for additional sleeping space. The full size fully stocked kitchen allows you to entertain and bring all the comforts of home with its full refrigerator, microwave,oven/stove, sink and plenty of cabinet and counter space.
The galley is also equipped with an electric fireplace, center-island, as well as a32” flat screen television, not leaving out the gorgeous views of the St. John’s river. The second outdoor living area is equipped with a barbecue, a beautiful and comfortable outdoor patio set that includes a custom table with a fire-pit.
You will never run short of activities while on vacation. Our resort offers a large pool for your swimming pleasure, several outdoor sitting areas, deli on premise, ship store, beautiful sceni, laundry facilities, and private parking at your slip. Boat rentals are available at the resort as well as marinas nearby for your further enjoyment of the St. John’s river.
Close to all local beaches, Orlando theme parks, the world famous Daytona International Speedway, as well as Cape Canaveral and Kennedy Space Center.
Book your next memorable vacation today to experience luxury and nature at its finest!

For entertainment, guests can expect to find flat-screen TVs. Kitchens, washing machines, and fireplaces are also available.

Similar properties

Relax on the porch with two comfortable chairs and a beautiful potted plant.

Pool
Kitchen
Free WiFi
Restaurant

Property amenities

Pool/Spa

Communal pool
Outdoor pool

Internet

Available in the accommodation: WiFi

Parking and transportation

Car recommended
Onsite parking includes off-street options

Kitchen

Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Microwave
Oven
Paper towels
Refrigerator
Stovetop
Toaster

Bedrooms

Bedroom
Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

1 bathroom
Hair dryer
Shampoo
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided

Living spaces

Fireplace
Living room

Entertainment

Flat-screen TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

Balcony
Barbecue grill
Firepit
Garden
Outdoor furniture

Laundry

Laundry facilities
Washing machine

Comfort

Air conditioning
Heating

Pets

No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

Smoking not allowed
Note from host: Smoking allowed in outside areas only......

Location highlights

Near the marina

Safety features

Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher

General

Garden

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

This property doesn't allow pets

Children and extra beds

Note from host: Children are welcomed......

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 indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property

Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

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: 11:00 AM

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
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.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.

Property is also known as

Water Lover's Retreat Houseboat Sanford

Water Lover's Retreat Houseboat

Water Lover's Retreat Sanford

Houseboat Water Lover's Retreat Sanford

Sanford Water Lover's Retreat Houseboat

Houseboat Water Lover's Retreat

Water Lover's Retreat Houseboat Sanford

Water Lover's Retreat Houseboat

Water Lover's Retreat Sanford

Houseboat Water Lover's Retreat Sanford

Sanford Water Lover's Retreat Houseboat

Houseboat Water Lover's Retreat

Water Lover's Retreat Sanford

Water Lover's Retreat Houseboat

Water Lover's Retreat Houseboat Sanford

Frequently asked questions

What's there to see around this houseboat?

This houseboat is located in Sanford, close to Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Seminole Towne Center, and Gemini Springs Park. You'll also find Lake Monroe and Black Bear Wilderness Area within a short drive.

Is parking available on site at this houseboat?

No, there isn't parking at this houseboat.

Is this houseboat next to a casino?

No, this houseboat is not connected to a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at this houseboat?

No, this houseboat doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool.

What amenities will couples enjoy at Water Lovers Retreat?

There are many amenities for couples at this houseboat, including a fireplace, fireplaces in some accommodations, as well as an outdoor pool.

Are there hot tubs at Water Lovers Retreat?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this houseboat.

Does this houseboat offer breakfast?

No, this houseboat doesn't offer breakfast.

Does this houseboat allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at this houseboat.

Does this houseboat have connecting rooms?

No, this houseboat doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How far is the airport from this houseboat?

The closest major airport to this houseboat is Orlando Sanford Intl. Airport (SFB), which is 9.7 mi away (16 minutes by car). Another top airport is Orlando Intl. Airport (MCO), which is around 27.9 mi away.

Are there rooms with balconies at Water Lovers Retreat?

Yes, every accommodation at Water Lovers Retreat comes with a balcony.

Water Lovers Retreat Reviews

Exceptional

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

9.0/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10 Excellent

Catherine C.

May 20, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Water’s Retreat Sanford

Mark is very responsive to

Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

David M.

May 20, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing stay

We had such a remarkable time staying on Mark's houseboat; what a phenomenal space. Very comfortable bed and the couches were also super comfy. We either sat out front or out back depending upon the time of day. Cabana Live was a great place to people watch and listen to music while having a drink or snack.Mark offers many other boats to take out for the day should you have interest in going out on the river.We would highly recommend on staying on Water Lovers Resort; Mark is amazing with his communication. He gave us a tour of the grounds which was very nice to know where the store is there plus we got to meet his wife one night.We will be back for sure

Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Geraldine G.

May 7, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful getaway

Stayed 4 nights, great communication with Mark, and he stressed he was only a call away if we needed anything- never needed a thing. Great place for escaping the daily grind. Walk up to the pool, sports bar at the marina. Had access to laundry .looking forward to returning

Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Krysten B.

Apr 3, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect spot for a nature immersive getaway!

My partner and I chose this houseboat for a kayaking getaway and it could not have been more perfect. Both Blue and Alexander Springs were short drives away (be sure to check out Firefly Nights at Blue Springs if you're visiting in March or April) and though we didn't, we could have easily launched our yaks from the marina to explore the St. Johns River. Sadly, the fire pit and grill have been removed due to new marina regulations, but nearby Historic Downtown Sanford offered plenty of quaint (yet bustling on St. Paddy's Day) dining and drinking options in the evenings, and the multiple manatee, otter, turtle, blue heron, and other water bird sitings from the decks made up for any disappointment. The public pool and restaurant (great food!)/bar at the marina was a fabulous amenity as well. The boat is situated at the very end of the dock so privacy was never a concern and we both slept like babies every night. Sunrise coffee on the east deck and sunset cocktails on the west deck added to our perfectly peaceful stay. It was so hard to leave, but we'll definitely be back!

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth H.

Mar 26, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Quick Vacation Get Away

Just wanted some time with family in a quiet space, It was beautiful, the wild life was amazing. A bit of a walk to the marina, but definetly worth it.

Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rachel K.

Mar 25, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Peaceful and Spacious!

We really enjoyed our stay from the beginning of researching the property all the way through checking out. I spoke with Mark several times before we even checked in because I am a stickler for details and planning. We wanted to rent a pontoon boat from Marc and I had a lot of questons Mark was more than patient, answered all of my questions and invited me to contact him at any time. The houseboat look exactly like the pictures and you couldn't even tell you were on a houseboat. Only reason for 4 stars on locaton instead of 5 was the houseboat was located at the far end of the dock and the lights along the dock weren't all on. This has nothing to do with Mark, but you might want a small flashlight because some areas were really dark.We loved being at to see the sunrise and sunsets and just hopping on the pontoon and being on the river. We definitely plan on coming back.

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tina H.

Mar 10, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Sanford

We had a wonderful experience!

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Deb H.

Feb 19, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Unique river stay!

This stay was one of our highlights of our trip. The river is beautiful. We rented a pontoon from the owner and spent the day on the river. We would highly recommend this if you have a spare day!

Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

2/10 Terrible

JOHN N.

Feb 6, 2025

Disliked: Cleanliness

Not happy

The boat itself was fine.Advertised dish tv. Not availableThe fire pit had been taken outThere was grill as advertized. leearly

Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kristine E., Loxahatchee USA

Jul 21, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Weekend Get Away

Relaxing

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kathy L.

May 20, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Fun

Mark was very nice. Houseboat really neat and clean. Unfortunately the weather didn’t cooperate.

Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lisa M., Summerfield

May 13, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Weekend getaway

We were looking for a peaceful and quiet location to get away for the weekend. Host keeps this houseboat very clean! It was exactly what we looking for. Peaceful river and we also enjoyed a little fishing right off the boat.

Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Roger B.

Apr 25, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect Getaway & Awesome Host!!

My wife & I really enjoyed our weekend celebrating our first wedding anniversary at the boathouse! Everything was exactly as described in the listing and more. Mark met us at the parking lot when we arrived & gave us a tour around the marina before taking us to the boathouse. He was sure to let us know that he is always available if we had any questions or needed anything. Everyone around was very friendly as well. We seen turtles, gators, and even caught some fish! It was a great trip to say the least!!! Mark is an outstanding host!!!

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lonnie O.

Apr 14, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Absolutely amazing

Everything was great! The host was amazing and meets you at the property to give you a tour so you can enjoy everything available to you. It is the perfect location. The boat is the the end lot so you can see and enjoy the river from all sides of the boat. Extremely peaceful and beautiful. We did purchase our own pillows and a sheet to be more comfortable. There were two smaller pillows and a decorative quilt like cover on the bed but no sheet. Absolutely recommend going to the deli- amazing real people. Will 100% be back. This will be our new spot!

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lisa S.

Apr 10, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Great houseboat vacation!

Owner is on site and such a great host. Houseboat is at the end of the dock along the river and is so peaceful. We absolutely loved our stay, thank you!!!!

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Judy Z.

Mar 20, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Lovely location on the St John river

We enjoyed our stay very much. Beautiful location at the end of the dock looking out over the river and very comfortable accommodations. Just as we expected.

Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ann C., Cassleberry, FL, United States

Jul 10, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Excellent celebration

My husband and I came to celebrate his birthday. Mark was very hospitable and set the entire weekend up for success. We brought our own jetski and per Mark's reference, Boat Tree Marina launched and retrieved it for us. We were able to see sunrise and sunset and enjoy the beauty of the area. The bed was comfortable. The accommodations were excellent. I would return!

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Paul G., Palm Bay

Jun 29, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Honeymoon Haven

Exceptional! Houseboat was the perfect place at the very end of the dock with an unrestricted view of sunrise and sunset. Mark was a great host, answered every question patiently and if we had a need, he filled it! We will be back! Thank you for making this special 💗

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kelly L.

Jun 15, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Great experience

Lovely

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nicholas F.

May 29, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

nothing but awesome

Experience was amazing Marcos an amazing, helpful host very informative and made us feel comfortable with Thursday. I would recommend this place to anybody we will definitely be back. I might even think about taking the kids. experience was amazing Marcos an amazing, helpful host very informative and made us feel comfortable with Thursday. I would recommend this place to anybody we will definitely be back. I might even think about taking the kids. If they’re being good.

Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stacy T.

May 21, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Water Lovers Retreat

Our host Mark was beyond accommodating. He was extremely helpful and made sure we didn’t need anything. We loved our stay, the view boat access it was great!

Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Deborah G.

May 1, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful in every way!

Mark is always the perfect host. This has become our annual getaway for my husband's birthday. Can't wait until next year!

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jenny S.

Mar 8, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Water paradise

This was a great find! Very clean. All at the end of the dock. Lots of wildlife and fish! Mark was a fantastic host, very accommodating.

Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

gary v.

Jan 15, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Relaxing

Excellent getaway. Everything was set to please

Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Anthony Z.

Dec 20, 2022

Liked: Cleanliness

Great place

Mark was a wonderful host. Went thru and showed us the entire property and area. There is plenty to do on the lake. The boat house it self is a great place to stay. Very clean and great amenities.

Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022