Suwannee River Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to the Lake?
The Suwannee River is a large river. These directions are to its gateway city: Fargo, Georgia. US highways 10 and 75 both cross its length in northern Florida.
From Jacksonville, Tennessee: Jacksonville is about 76 miles from Fargo. To get there, take I-10 West toward Lake City/Tallahassee. After 29.1 miles of driving, you'll take exit 333 and merge onto CR-125 N toward Glen St. Mary. Go for 10 miles, then take a right onto CR-127, on which you'll continue for 10.1 miles. Take a left onto SR-2 and take it into Georgia. After 15.3 miles, it'll turn into GA-94. Go for 9.1 miles. The road will turn into US-441, and you'll be in Fargo.
Click here to view a map of the Suwannee River area.
When do I pick up the boat?
When you make your reservation the marina will set a specific time between 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM on your first day – this will determine your drop off time as well.
How many people are allowed on the boat?
Maximum capacity on any of the houseboats is 8 at any time.
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?
Security Deposit of $200 is due at time of reservation. This is refundable at the end of your trip if the houseboat is returned clean, on time, and with no damages.
Your full rental fee is due upon arrival.
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?
Suwannee River is a very popular houseboat destination. 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?
Only sheets and pillows with cases are provided; no towels or blankets.
Are the houseboats air-conditioned?
Yes, they have both ac and heat for year round availability.
Are you allowed to go into the Gulf of Mexico, into the springs or small
creeks with the houseboats?
No, the houseboats are restricted to the river only and in the areas we have charted out as safe navigation for the houseboats.
Where can we go?
The houseboat can cruise up stream as far as Fanning springs. Fanning springs is a 14 hour drive time from the marina round trip. Manatee springs is 10 hours.
Do we pay for fuel?
Yes, you are responsible to re-fill the houseboat with what you used. A good approximate is 20 gallons per day use. The houseboat holds 150 gallons.
Can we bring our own boat to tag along with the houseboat?
Yes, it is highly recommended to enhance your trip and will open up a lot area that the river is not accessible by houseboat.
Is it safe to anchor in the river?
It is a requirement to anchor in the middle of the river; it is the safest location to anchor. Not allowed near the shoreline – too many rocks, stumps, and boulders.
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?
“Old Town” grocer is about 24 miles away.
How old do you have to be to rent the houseboats?
The renter needs to be 25 years of age with a valid drivers license and a good credit card to show financial responsibility.
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!
Can I fish from the houseboat?
Yes! Fishing is a very popular activity on the river. You may purchase a license at www.myfwc.com/license or 888-347-4356.
