Lake Vermilion Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to the Lake?
From St. Paul: Lake Vermilion is about 225 miles from St. Paul. Take I-35E N which becomes I-35 N. This is about 109.6 miles to the next merge onto MN-33 N via EXIT 237 toward CLOQUET/IRON RANGE. MN-33 N becomes US-53 N. Merge onto MN-169 N toward ELY. Turn LEFT onto ANGUS RD / CR-77. 9482 ANGUS RD is on the RIGHT.
From Duluth International Airport: Lake Vermilion is about 81 miles from Duluth. Take MILLER TRUCK HWY / US-53 N / MN-194 W for 61.4 miles. Merge onto MN-169 N toward ELY. Turn LEFT onto ANGUS RD/CR-77. 9482 ANGUS RD is on the RIGHT.
Click here to view a map of the Lake Vermilion area.
When do I pick up the boat?
The houseboats at Lake Vermilion / Pike Bay Marina can be picked up at 3 PM and are due back by 9AM on your final day.
How many people are allowed on the boat?
Maximum the houseboat sleeps: 40' Explorer – 4 person sleeper; 44' Explorer – 8 person sleeper; 44' Royalist – 10 person sleeper; 50' Deluxe Royalist – 12 sleeper; 54' Catalina – 12 person sleeper; 42' Cruiser – 4 person sleeper; 55' Cruiser – 12 person sleeper; 60' Cruiser – 12 person sleeper; 60' Executive – 14 person sleeper.
What will the temperatures be like on my trip?
May, June and September are the cooler months with temperatures ranging from 45-75 degrees. July and August are excellent for swimming in the lake and sunning, temperatures average 60-90 degrees. The cooler months are the ideal times for fishing with the water temperatures around 60 degrees.
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?
A Damage Deposit is due at time of reservation (varies depending on the houseboat). The damage deposit is refundable if the houseboat is returned the way you rented it. Your full rental fee is due upon arrival. Any major credit card over the phone is accepted, except for American Express for payment of deposit or rental fee.
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?
Houseboat vacations on Lake Vermilion are very popular for many reasons, so we do recommend booking 4 to 6 months 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?
Linen packages are available for rent or you are welcome to bring your own.
Are pets allowed on my houseboat?
The marina has set the policy to allow certain houseboats to allow pets. Please call our agents to see if the houseboat you are interested in will allow your pet.
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 store will be found in Virginia MN about 20 miles away from the marina or there is a smaller grocer south and about 5 miles away.
How old do you have to be to rent the houseboats?
All renters must be 21 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. The most popular fish in Lake Vermilion are three species of Walleye, Northern pike lurking the weed beds, and small mouth bass, crappie and other pan fish. Fishing is especially good from November to April, when water temperatures are cooler. 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.
