Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there enough water?
A: We are frequently asked this question. Fortunately we have a weir right in Mildura. This creates a dam or weir pool effect for 40kms above Mildura. Another weir is at Wentworth and the weir pool effect is created back to Mildura. So that is great for houseboating and skiing as our hirers can use and explore 100kms of fantastic wide, deep and non-tidal water.
Q: Do I need a special licence?
A: No a current car driver’s licence is sufficient. One member of the crew needs to be over 21 years old. We provide full driving instruction on your arrival. Driving instruction and safety overview takes approximately 1 – 1 ½ hrs and includes a practise drive. At least 2 crew members need to participate in the driving instructions as it also includes important safety & boat feature information.
Q: How many people are allowed on a houseboat?
A: Regulations are that the number of people on board must not exceed the number of berths. Boats in the Mildura Holiday Houseboats fleet are registered from 1 – 12 berth and you will be advised of the boat berth as you book & during driving instruction.
Q: Can anyone drive a houseboat, even if they haven’t driven a boat before?
A: Yes providing that you are over 18 years of age. On your arrival you are given instructions on the operation and navigation of your houseboat by a staff member. You will then be taken for an instructional drive, which will include navigational rules, practise driving, parking and any other questions that you have. A designated captain needs to be chosen from you crew and will take responsibility for the driving.
Q: What is on the houseboat?
A: There are different features on each boat. Features are listed on our website and in our coloured brochure. Each boat contains cutlery, crockery and cookware in the well equipped kitchen. We have Coffee plungers, BYO coffee though. We supply cling wrap, alfoil, rubbish bags, paper towel, First aid kit and toilet paper. All linen is provided including sheets, pillows, doonas, extra blankets and all towels including hand towels, bathmats, tea towels and pot mitts.
Q: What do I need to bring?
A: You need to bring all of your food (including tea, coffee and sugar), drink and personal items. We provide soap for the basins but you need to bring your own toiletries. Bring your own sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, CD’s, bathers, beach towel, walking shoes and a sense of humour. Basic food supplies are available at different points but it is advisable to take everything you need with you. Having your meat Cryovacced through a butcher will extend the shelf life in the fridge without having to freeze it. Wagner and Giddings butchers 03 50 231395 will take phone orders.
Q: Do we need to bring drinking water?
A: There is sufficient drinking water on board. It is Mildura Town water and providing you don’t waste it, it will last the entire trip.
Q: Are houseboat holidays suitable for children?
A: Houseboats are an ideal family holiday. Houseboats have child resistant railings. Children do need to be supervised at all times and it is advisable for children to wear life jackets when swimming.
Q: How much bond will I have to pay and when do I get it back?
A: A fuel and damage bond of $500.00 cash ($1000 cash for the Spa Boats) is required on the day that you arrive. That will be refunded at the end of the hire period, providing the boat is returned clean, damage free and on time. Fuel is also deducted from the bond at the end of the hire period. Full conditions are available on the conditions page.
Q: Can I bring a dinghy, a speed boat, jet-ski or a canoe?
A: Yes. Bring your own ropes to secure them with and any special safety gear that you need for your particular boat. Dinghy’s and fishing rods are available for hire and need to be pre-booked.
Q: Do I require a fishing licence?
A: When you are fishing in the N.S.W waters you require a N.S.W fishing license. Some exemptions apply. More information can be obtained by calling 1300 550 474 or the website NSW Fisheries Website. Recreational fishing licenses issued by other states, territories or countries are not valid for fishing in NSW waters. All visitors must have a current NSW recreational fishing license unless they are exempt. Fishing rods are available for hire.
Q: What happens if I damage the boat?
A: The houseboats are insured. Providing the terms & conditions of hire are adhered to, the limit of liability is usually the insurance excess $ 2000. Wilful or negligent damage is not covered and the hirer will be required to fully compensate for damage.
Q: Can I drive the houseboat at night?
A: No. The houseboat must be moored before early dusk.
Q: How far can I travel?
A: Our hire limits are 60kms downstream to Wentworth (approximately 10 – 12 hrs travel) and 40kms upstream. Navigation into the Darling River is also possible approximately 20 – 30kms, depending on the water levels.
Q: How much fuel will I use and how much will it cost?
A: The fuel used is dependent on the size of the boat and how far you travel. Generator fuel is also charged to the hirer. All fuel used will be deducted from the bond at the end of the hire. The boats are filled at the end of each hire so you pay for what you use.
Mildura Holiday Houseboats are fitted with solar panels to reduce fuel consumption. The solar panels keep the domestic batteries charged and reduce the chance of flat domestic batteries.
Q: What happens if I need help?
A: Phone contact is available 24hrs a day for emergencies and any problems you may encounter. Two way radios are fitted as a second means of communication. Mobile Phone coverage is available within the hire limits.
Q: Do I need to pump the black water out of the holding tank?
A: No. Return the boat to the Mildura Holiday Houseboats moorings at the end of your hire, where staff will take care of it. Pump out stations are however available along the river for disposal of black water.
Q: Do I need an itinerary?
A: No. Suggested itineraries are available.
Q: Can I pull up in the middle of the river?
A: You must pull into the bank and tie up all four ropes. Full instruction is provided on how to find somewhere to park. Multiple Moorings are available along the bank providing it is free of over hanging trees, is not private property or a private mooring.
Q: I have special medical requirements.
A: Please discuss any medical requirements prior to arrival (including C/Pap machines). Disabled access is available to some boats and needs are best discussed prior to booking.
Q: Will my car be safe?
A: We have a secure compound. While every care is taken we know that you will understand that the responsibility remains with you. Under cover car storage can be arranged with Seventh Street Self Storage 03 50 220841 (fee applies).
Q: How do I make a booking?
A: Booking can be obtained via e-mail or by phoning us directly.
If after all this I still haven’t answered your question, give us a ring we are only too happy to help. (9am-9pm)
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Mildura Holiday Houseboats
PO BOX 249, Mildura, Vic, 3502
Free Dial : 1800 800 842 | Phone: +61 (0)3 5024 6222 | Email | Bookings | 
