Frequently Asked Questions - Kentucky Lake
How do I get to the Lake?
Note: The Green Turtle Bay Marina does service Lake Barkley, but a channel will take you from Lake Barkley into Kentucky Lake. This trip through the channel takes only about 15 minutes.
From Hopkinsville, Kentucky: Green Turtle Bay is about 54 miles from Hopkinsville, Kentucky. Take KY-80/US-68 west from Hopkinsville for 14.1 miles, then take the ramp onto I-24 West. You'll drive I-24 for 34.4 miles, then take exit 31 for KY-453 (Smithland/Grand Rivers). Take a prompt left onto KY-453. Drive for 3.3 miles, then take a left onto Commerce Avenue. Turn left onto KY-952, then take a right on Barkley Drive. Turn left and then right, shortly afterward, to stay on Barkley Drive. Continue onto Nautical Drive and you'll be at the marina.
From Paducah, Kentucky: Green Turtle Bay is about 30 miles from Paducah, Kentucky. Take I-24-BL E/US-60-BR E from Paducah. This will turn into John Puryear Drive after 3.3 miles. Continue on for 2.6 miles, then take a slight left onto Husband Road. Take a left and merge onto I-24 E. You'll drive this for 19.4 miles, then take exit 31 for KY-453 (Smithland/Grand Rivers). Take a prompt right onto KY-453. Drive for 3.2 miles, then take a left onto Commerce Avenue. Turn left onto KY-952, then take a right on Barkley Drive. Turn left and then right, shortly afterward, to stay on Barkley Drive. Continue onto Nautical Drive and you'll be at the marina.
When do I pick up the boat?
The Wanderer can be picked up at 2 pm and is due back by 9 am. The Adventurers & Mystics are be picked up at 4 pm and are due back by 11 am.
How many people are allowed on the boat?
Maximum capacity on any of the houseboats is 12.
What will the temperatures be like on my trip?
The lake is warm from mid-summer through late fall and pleasantly cool in the shoulder seasons. Winter and early to mid-spring water temperatures are too cold for extended swimming without a wetsuit. View a month-by-month list of temperatures here.
How difficult is driving a houseboat?
Driving a houseboat is different than driving a car, but is not that difficult. The marina staff will walk you through driving the boat when you pick it up. Most people get the hand of maneuvering the boat within a few minutes.
If you're concerned about your ability to handle the boat, you may arrange for a captain to guide you out of the marina or drive you to a specific destination on the lake.
What is the billing schedule?
$500 is due at the time of reservation, which applies towards your total amount. The remaining amount is due 60 days prior to your trip.
How do I check availability or reserve a houseboat?
Give us a call at 888-454-8825, and one of our reservation agents will be happy to check availability for you. It's helpful if you already have an idea of when you want to go and what boat you're most interested in when you call.
Alternatively, you can contact us online with your availability request, and one of our agents will be happy to get back to you with the information you need.
How early do I need to reserve?
Lake Barkley/Kentucky is a very popular lake. Some of our boats have been known to book out more than two years in advance. The earlier the better is a good rule to follow, particularly if you have an exact date in mind for your trip, or if you're planning a trip over a holiday weekend.
However, if you're flexible with your dates or the exact houseboat model, we can almost always find a trip for you even a few weeks before hand.
Are linens included with my houseboat rental?
Yes, linens and towels are provided on all boats.
Are pets allowed on my houseboat?
The marina cannot allow pets of any kind. You will need to find alternative accommodations for your pets.
Where is the nearest grocery store so I can stock up before my trip?
There is a convenience store right at the marina. For all of your grocery needs, the nearest grocery stores will be found in Paducah, Kentucky.
How old do you have to be to rent the houseboats?
All renters must be 18 with a valid drivers license.
Do I need a license to operate the houseboats, or is a skipper provided?
There is no special license needed to operate our houseboats. There are rules for operating houseboats on the waterways, and we will explain them to you upon your arrival.
Will I get seasick on a houseboat?
Houseboats are on pontoons and there is very little motion. Seasickness is basically unheard of on fresh water.
What is the best time of year to go houseboating?
It is always a good time to go houseboating! Summer is the most popular and busiest season. Fall offers Indian Summer days and cooler nights. Springtime is good for viewing abundant wildflowers, waterfalls, and wildlife. Winter is favorable for the anglers, when fishing is at its best. And the rates are significantly lower between September and May.
Can I fish from the houseboat?
Yes! Fishing is a very popular activity on the lake. Kentucky Lake was once known as the "Crappie Capital of the world" and large, two-pound crappies are an easy find in these waters. Bass, specifically the Lunker largemouth, spotted and especially the smallmouth, are both popular and plentiful. Other thriving species are the catfish, bluegill, red ear, sauger and stripers. The marina stores sell a good variety of bait and tackle for optimizing your chances of catching fish, whether you're a novice or an expert.
