Lake Mead Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to the Lake?
Lake Mead is conveniently located just southeast of Las Vegas. Travelers often fly into the major airport located in Las Vegas, and then drive the short distance to Lake Mead. Callville Bay Marina is about a 40-mile drive from Las Vegas, while Temple Bar Marina is just 30 miles past that.
Click here to view a map of Lake Mead and the surrounding areas.
When do I pick up the boat?
You may pick up your boat any time after 8:00 AM on the first day of your rental. In some cases, you may arrange for a “pre-board” on the night before; call us for more information.
Your boat is due back at the marina at 2:00 PM on the final day. For boats departing from Echo Bay Marina, the boat is due back at 4:00 PM.
How many people are allowed on the boat?
Lake Mead is a National Recreation Area, and the government rules allow for no more than 12 people on a moving houseboat, no matter the size. Many people “get around” this rule by bringing or renting a powerboat for additional members of their party.
Larger groups may want to consider renting an additional houseboat. When the boat is not in motion, there are no restrictions on the number of people you may have onboard.
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. When you reserve your houseboat, we will send you a video or DVD in the mail with a basic overview of houseboat operations. The marina staff will also 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?
For boats departing from Callville Bay or Temple Bar Marinas:
At the time of booking, you must pay a deposit to confirm your reservation of the houseboat. Sixty (60) days prior your trip, the full balance of your rental must be paid. The deposit is held throughout your trip, and then refunded once you return the boat undamaged.
For boats departing from Echo Bay Marina:
There is a $300 deposit required at the time of reservation. This amount acts as a down payment and applies to your rental fee. Your full rental fee plus a $500 security deposit is due 45 days prior to your scheduled date of departure. This $500 security deposit is fully refundable as long as you return the boat undamaged.
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 Mead is one of the most popular lakes in the United States. 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?
Linens are included on all houseboat rentals at on houseboats departing from Temple Bar Marina or Callville Bay Marina. This will include sheets, pillows, blankets, and bath towels. You will need to provide your own beach towels.
For boats departing from Echo Bay Marina, linens will not be provided, you will need to provide your own.
Are pets allowed on my houseboat?
For boats departing from Callville Bay or Temple Bar Marinas, pets are allowed on the houseboats for a non-refundable $100 fee per pet.
For boats departing from the Echo Bay Marina, pets are allowed on all houseboats at no additional charge.
Where is the nearest grocery store so I can stock up before my trip?
There are three main grocery stories located in Henderson, Nevada, about twenty minutes away from Callville Bay. The marina also stocks a convenience store for last minute items you may have forgotten.
How old do you have to be to rent the houseboats?
The renter needs to be 21 years of age 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. Lake Mead is a very warm lake and stays pleasant through the fall season.
Can I fish from the houseboat?
Yes! Fishing is a very popular activity. Arizona fishing licenses are available at both Temple Bar Marina and Callville Bay Marina. Bait and tackle are also available. You will find a variety of fish at Lake Mead including Striped Bass, Bluegill, Largemouth Bass, Crappie, and Channel Catfish.
