About Us
Located an hour north of Sydney at Brooklyn, conveniently close to the M1 motorway.
Ideally located at the gateway to the Hawkesbury, it is a leisurely hour and a half cruise to the pristine waters of Kuring-gai Chase National Park. Alternatively you can cruise up the Hawkesbury to historic Wisemans Ferry, or head towards the serenity of Berowra Waters.
You are spoilt for choice with our extensive cruising areas. With the largest and widest range of houseboats, HOLIDAYS AFLOAT & RIPPLES will have the vessel that is just right.
We have a range of different types of vessels. Whether you’re a couple, a family or a group of friends we have the perfect choice.
Need More Information?
Simply phone us to talk to our friendly staff or, better still, call in for a look and a chat. You can be assured you won’t be disappointed and you will understand why we say “all our lookers are bookers”!
Putting your mind at ease.
To put your mind at ease we will give you a personal briefing on board your vessel where we show you its full features and operation.
We take you on a short cruise to ensure you are comfortable in driving the vessel and aware of simple navigation rules. We even pilot the vessels in and out of our marina so you do not have to manoeuvre them in any tight spots.
Our staff ensure that self drive is an easy and enjoyable experience, by personally taking the time to brief you.
Aside from our beautiful hire vessels, the biggest compliment we regularly receive concerns our staff. Friendly, helpful, they make it so easy…combine this with modern safety systems like GPS satellite navigation tracking and you will find HOLIDAYS AFLOAT & RIPPLES hard to fault.
Why Choose Us?
We understand that to stay the biggest and the best you have to keep changing and improving. So these are just a few reasons why you should book your houseboat with Holidays Afloat & Ripples.
No Hidden Charges
There are no hidden charges like cleaning, gas or environmental pumpout on top of your rental cost. The only additional charge is the fuel you use. The vessel leaves with full tanks, they are filled up on your return and you are charged for what you use.
At the end of your hire you simply unload at our marina and head home. There is secure car parking in our sealed car park which is locked at night (two parking spaces for the Elite, Homecruiser, Fisherman and one parking space for all other vessels). There is also ample street parking in the immediate vicinity of our marina.
Features
All our houseboats have quality sound systems. All have smart tv’s with the exception of the Weekender 30′.
Our Elite 47′ has two bunk rooms (each with four single bunks) and two lounges that open to double beds.
Our Homecruiser 47’ can be driven from either the upstairs entertaining deck or from the downstairs saloon and has 2 private bedrooms.
Our Elite and Homecruiser 47′ vessels have electric anchor winches, a staircase to the top deck, electronic engine controls and large BBQ cooking facilities.
Our Fisherman 45′ includes an electric anchor winch and bait board stations for fishing with ample rod holders.
Our modern Seaway 33’ flybridge cruiser will appeal to those seeking more of a traditional boat style than a houseboat. With electronic engine controls, the choice of driving from either the flybridge or the saloon and electric anchoring, the Seaway is ideal for a romantic weekend away.
Our Islander 35′ is perfect for the young family of four or two couples.
Our Weekender 30′ is best described as modern luxury ideal for couples seeking a short escape.
Extras
All our vessels have generous sunshades, easy to operate BBQs, comfortable outdoor furniture, built-in eskies and bait/fishing tables. Our vessels come with a complimentary row dinghy that you tow behind. This allows you to access the shore. Alternatively, you can upgrade to an easy to use motorised dinghy.
Our vessels are fitted with back to base GPS tracking as a safety precaution.
All our vessels have flush toilet systems with holding tanks on board. No effluent goes into the river.
All vessels are equipped with charging facilities for mobile phones, laptops and cameras. Please note: You are NOT able to plug in hair drying equipment, straighteners, coffee machines, cooking appliances or 12v fridge.
Happy Customers
Such a wonderful experience cruising along the stunning scenery on a spacious comfortable houseboat! Thank you to the team for looking after us. Everyone we spoke to at Holidays Afloat were so lovely and helpful from booking, to pre-departure, to boarding... everything was so easy and we enjoyed every moment! Can’t wait to experience this again!! Thank you!!
Klara Illuzzi
Google Review
Karen and the team were wonderful from 'go to woe'. Excellent service, great boat, easy to drive and despite bad weather, we still had a great time.
Can highly recommend!
Seb Brandt
Google Review