This houseboat places you next to Lake Erie and within a mile (2 km) of Jet Express. Guestrooms at this houseboat include patios, refrigerators, and microwaves.
Catawba Island State Park - 15 min drive - 11.0 miles
Getting around
Sandusky Station - 22 min drive
Toledo Express Airport (TOL) - 56 min drive
Restaurants
McDonald's - 4 min drive
Jolly Roger's Seafood House - 4 min drive
The Brick House - 2 min drive
Scooters Dairy Bar - 3 min drive
The Gristmill - 19 min walk
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.
Wake up ON the lake aboard Island King
Island King is a houseboat with tons of charm! Wake up to the sounds of the water and go to bed watching an amazing sunset!
The outdoor space of this boat is great! The front deck has two comfy chairs to enjoy morning coffee or evening relaxation. The upper deck has a table and chair seating for 8. Perfect for an evening dinner and watching the sunset.
Inside you will find a king size Sleep Number bed, kitchen area with fridge/microwave and kcup coffee maker. The front living area has a couch that converts to a full size bed. While there is a bathroom on the boat, we ask this is used sparingly as the systems are sensitive. We have a a BRAND NEW bathhouse that was built at our dock. There are three full bathrooms with regular size showers, toilets and sinks. Just steps away from the boat. (2023)
There is a brand new heating and air conditioner unit that was added in 2023.
Kayaks and fishing poles are available and complimentary to our overnight guests. Life vests are also provided.
Check out our website for more details! Islandhouseboatgetaway.com
You will love being able to walk to the beach and having Downtown Port Clinton activities within minutes. Restaurants, bars, live music, festivals, farmers markets, art shows and more! If you have a boat/jet skis/kayak this is the paradise for you. Please let us know if you would like to bring it, we have dock spaces available. There is access to Lake Erie and the Portage River directly from the marina. The Sandusky Bay is only a few minutes’ drive, as well as Cedar Point. The Jet Express is a couple minutes down the road, and you can be to Put N Bay or Kelley’s Island quickly!
Reminder, this is a boat on the water, in a marina. There are other houseboats and personal boats in the marina. The boats do not move from the dock, but simply camping on the water!Depending on the weather, there can be movement. There can also be different kinds of wildlife and bugs. This is similar to camping, but on the water! Spiders, Flies, Mayflies, Nats, etc are all creatures of the water areas. We do spray and clean for these, but want to make you aware that you may see them. We do our best to keep you comfortable! Please let us know if there is anything we can do while you are with us.
Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a patio, a refrigerator, and a microwave.
Note from host: Be mindful of neighbors and dispose properly
Location highlights
In the city center
Near a zoo
Near the bay
Near the marina
On a lake
On a river
On the waterfront
Things to do
Boat
Kayak
Water park
Water sports equipment
Cycling nearby
Fishing nearby
Jet skiing nearby
Motor boating nearby
Parasailing nearby
Rafting nearby
Sailing nearby
Scuba diving nearby
Snorkeling nearby
Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
Swimming nearby
Theme park nearby
Water skiing nearby
Water tubing nearby
Wildlife walks nearby
Windsurfing nearby
Winery tours nearby
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)
Fire extinguisher
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 25
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
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Pets
This property doesn't allow pets
Children and extra beds
Note from host: children under 12 should wear life vest on dock
Events
Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
Please contact us prior to booking
Smoking
Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Be mindful of neighbors and dispose properly
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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site; maximum attendees: 8
Note from host: Please contact us prior to booking
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
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
Minimum check-in age: 25
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.
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 8.
Note from host: Please contact us prior to booking
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, and a smoke detector.
Frequently asked questions
What's there to do near this houseboat?
This houseboat is located in Port Clinton, just steps from Lake Erie. You'll also find Jet Express and Fisherman's Wharf within a short drive.
Will I be able to park at this houseboat?
No, there isn't parking available at the 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, there is no indoor pool at this houseboat.
Is Wake up ON the lake aboard Island King good for couples?
Couples staying at this beachfront houseboat will appreciate amenities such as a smart TV in each accommodation with beach views in some.
Are there hot tubs at Wake up ON the lake aboard Island King?
No, there isn't a spa tub at this houseboat.
Does this houseboat offer breakfast?
No, this houseboat doesn't offer breakfast.
Will this houseboat allow pets to stay for free?
No, pets aren't allowed at this houseboat.
Does this houseboat have connecting rooms?
No, there aren't connecting rooms at this houseboat.
Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Wake up ON the lake aboard Island King?
Yes, every accommodation at Wake up ON the lake aboard Island King comes with a deck with some featuring beach views.
Wake up ON the lake aboard Island King Reviews
Reviews
8.6
Excellent
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 9 out of 14 reviews
10 - Excellent
9
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 14 reviews
8 - Good
1
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 14 reviews
6 - Okay
3
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 14 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 14 reviews
2 - Terrible
1
8.4/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Joe S.
Oct 5, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Some of nicest and friendliest people who own and take care of property.
Joe S.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
6/10 Okay
Van V., West salem
Aug 24, 2025
Disliked: Cleanliness
Being able to stay on the water…amazing. The boat itself….eh. Do you love spiders? Then this is the place for you. Yes, the listing warns of lakeside insects. But spiders literally dropping from the ceiling on you from dusk til dawn…? Meh. This can be controlled with proper pest control. The cleanliness and lack of care in the boat was less than impressive. Curtain rods bent and hanging down over the bed (with notable cobwebs behind said curtains). The back window was beautiful, if it was cleaned. I cleaned it myself so I could enjoy. Just take pride in your investments. I’m sure your home doesn’t look like that. Neither does mine nor does my rental properties. Yes, the bathroom was recommended not for use. Which we did not. However, you couldn’t even use the sink or mirror because the smell of the toilet was so awful. With a little care and attention, this could be resolved. There were kids on the boat across from us the first night partying it up and shining lights in our boat from 11pm-1am, “assuming” from previous reviews, this is the owners children. The wash house and restroom on site was very clean and convenient. It was a nice, quick stay with Port Clinton, Marblehead and the like; amazing as always. Will we return to this particular rental? No.
Van V.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
2/10 Terrible
Kristin P., Columbus, Ohio
Aug 8, 2025
Disliked: Cleanliness
Never Again
We arrived and it was about 120 degrees on the boat. There was something wrong with the toilet and it smelled worse than a portapot. There was a used worm container in the fridge. The windows were broken and the screens were torn. Roof leaked onto the bed during rain shower. We could only stay one night even though we paid for two nights. Sheets and towels seemed clean. Bath house was suitable, as advertised. We were sorry to have rented this and that our vacation getaway was cut short.
Kristin P.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveler
Jul 21, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Short Family Trip
Nice clean property with great views. Relaxing unique experience.
Verified traveler
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Brahem R.
Jul 7, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
A GUARANTEED Good Time
We ( family of 3 with a teenager) stayed over the Fourth of July weekend and had a FANTASTIC time!! The owners are so hospitable, go above and beyond and definitely take pride in their boats. They had live music, karaoke and provided food 2 of the nights we stayed. The listing is accurate- it’s truly like RV camping on the water. The boat had everything we needed and were very comfortable to sleep on. The bathhouse was very clean and stocked with pretty much anything you could need. We took advantage of using the kayaks they have for guests to use and paddled around for a good 2 hours as well as fished off of the end of our boat. We were already trying to think of when we could come back before we even left. If you’re looking at staying on any of their boats… just book it! You will not be disappointed!!
Brahem R.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Dwight & Ann E.
Sep 12, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Jenifer
Clean and suppplied as advertised. Owner responded quickly to our queries
Dwight & Ann E.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
10/10 Excellent
Roxann K.
Aug 23, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Our visit
We enjoyed our visit and the hosts were very friendly and accommodating. The boathouse was exactly as described, no surprises, clean and comfortable. Sunrise and sunset views were beautiful.
Roxann K.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
8/10 Good
Amy F.
Aug 16, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Camping on the water
This was a truly unique experience which is exactly what we were looking for. The marina is very quiet and totally has the boating/camping vibe with super friendly neighbors and the sharing of advice on fishing and offering up of leftover bait. We didn’t contact the owners much but the little communication we did have went well. There were super awesome things such as free water and k cups available. We should’ve asked but couldn’t figure out the pullout bed or the sleep number mattress (super comfy) remote. The only real complaint I have is the head (bathroom). We were warned that it was sensitive and for emergencies only, but this really is rough when you have to use the bathroom in the middle of the night. The bathroom boat was very clean and the water was hot and had good pressure, but the head in the houseboat was extremely smelly making it difficult to even open the door to use the mirror. We truly enjoyed the environment and atmosphere, but for “camping” it was possibly a little more expensive than I would’ve liked for having to leave the boat to go to the bathroom but we were warned. It probably isn’t that bad for anyone who doesn’t have kids that have to pee every 15 min 😊
Amy F.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
10/10 Excellent
Holly B., Shelby ,Ohio USA
Jul 31, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome host!
Help the boys Ana I out a lot ! Ty for your hospitality !!we will be back again!
Holly B.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Brian R.
Jul 16, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Live music and party time!!
The owners were very nice and helpful. This was our first visit to the area. The weather was not cooperative and we still enjoyed a unique experience in staying on the houseboat.
Family owned and they stay on the property so it’s convenient.
Live music and opportunity to party or set on one of the 2 decks and relax.
Thanks for the hospitality!
Brian R.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Michelle C.
Jul 9, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Weekend getaway
Scott and I enjoyed our weekend. The location was within walking distance to everything. Relaxing and great views. Everyone was friendly. Great experience!
Michelle C.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
colleen m., USA
Jul 5, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Great weekend get away
I read the reviews and after I saw the owners responses I decided to book it. So glad I did! It's a fun place to stay, everyone was so helpful and friendly. The dock becomes like a small neighborhood were everybody says hi. It really is like camping on the water. If you are looking for something different and fun, I would recommend.
colleen m.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023
6/10 Okay
Kristin S.
Aug 28, 2022
Not very private
We love the water and boats and everything about lake life. The owners of the boat also own the pier and many other houseboats on it. They have a nice spot there and we enjoyed our place. It was a unique spot to sleep in. Lots of chairs outside on the front and back of the boat, although we didnt spend as much time outside as we would have liked. The owners ended up docking their giant boat right out side our front door and we felt we were intruding on a family trip as many people were up and down the dock. This is their spot and it is lovely, I would just be prepared to be very social. Michelle and Josh were very friendly and helpful. We were getting away for a birthday/anniversary trip so it was not ideal to be on top of people like we were.
Kristin S.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022
6/10 Okay
Ginger S., Michigan City
Aug 22, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
New listing
The owners are very friendly. The bed was comfortable. The houseboat was clean. There were snacks provided and bottled water.
The bad, no curtains near the bed the sun was beating in and it was very hot the air conditioner couldn't keep up. No curtains by the door so zero privacy until we hung sheets and blankets. The listing did not specify that there was only a toilet for urine and that we had to walk about 5 minutes to a bathroom to shower. The head on the boat smelled badly. There were only paper cups for the coffee. no plates, no silverware. Seating inside the boat was very uncomfortable. Outside seating was nice! Overall I know this is a new listing so I definitely want to give them some slack but the listing definitely needs to be more telling about what you're walking into. I would not have booked if there was full disclosure about the bathrooms and the lack of privacy and the temperature inside the boat.
The location was great. Within walking distance of some very awesome bars and very close to the jet express that takes you over to Put-in-Bay. The owners even offered to stay up and wait to give us a ride home and a ride into town which I thought was very nice of them.