Voyageur National Park FAQ
How do I get to the Lake?
From International Falls:
Head south on US-53 for approximately 28 miles. Turn left onto Ash River Trail (County Road 129) and after approximately 10 miles, look for Ebels Voyageur Houseboats. Click here to view a map of Voyageurs National Park.
When do I pick up the boat?
Usually anytime after 1 PM. Our office is closed between the hours of 11 AM – 1 PM. This allows us to get the houseboats ready for timely departures. Please do not plan on arriving before 1 PM.
How many people are allowed on the boat?
Our boats are approved for a variety of group sizes, exceeding these limits lead to problems with holding tanks and usually submerged motors, for these reasons we do not vary from the maximum occupancy listed for each boat. Children are counted as one.
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?
A damage deposit is due at the time of reservation, the full rental amount is due 45 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?
Voyageur’s National Park is a very popular area. 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 are provided on all boats except the 36’ Voyageur, 44’ & 54’ Deluxe series houseboats.
Are pets allowed on my houseboat?
Yes, pets are allowed at no extra charge.
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, On your way to the Ash River Trail we recommend shopping in Virginia, MN at SUPER ONE FOODS or at the VOYAGEUR COUNTRY CENTER IGA in Orr, MN.
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, however if you plan to fish in Canadian waters, you will need a Canadian license. This can be purchased on Sand Point Lake. 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.
Does every houseboat have a generator?
No, only our Deluxe, Vista, & 65’ Series houseboats come equipped with generators, however, we do rent generators for the Voyageur Series houseboats.
Can I bring my own generator? What can I run off my generator?
You may bring your own generator and run anything that requires electricity, provided it does not exceed output capacity. Nothing on the boat itself requires electricity. The refrigerator and stove are gas. Lights are 12 volt or gas.
Do you sell fishing licenses?
Yes, we sell resident and non-resident fishing licenses.
Are there any resorts to stop at on the lake?
Yes, on the far west end of Kabetogama, on the Ash River, at Kettle Falls, and on Crane Lake there are various resorts that offer full restaurant and bar facilities.
Does our houseboat come with a small boat?
No. You must bring your own boat and motor. We do require you have at least one tag along boat & motor with the houseboat in case of emergency.
exceptions made for the Vista or 65’ Series. Children are counted as one.
What time can we pick up our houseboat?
Usually anytime after 1 PM. Please do not plan on arriving before 1 PM.
Does anyone captain the houseboat for us?
We have a staff member run through a checklist and go over the boat with you. The staff member will accompany you down the river for a few miles to make sure all of your questions are answered and you are comfortable driving the houseboat.
How far is Kettle Falls?
It is 17 miles or approximately 2 ½ hours by houseboat from our base on the Ash River.
Do we need Canadian fishing licenses?
Only if you plan to fish in Canadian waters. Canadian licenses can be purchased on Sand Point Lake.
