The BoatHouse on the Hillsborough River- Enjoy river and downtown water views

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Entire home

River house that sits in the river, private dock and walkway

view from south side of house, Ricks on the River is in background, walking dist

east side of house, boats can be docked here

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

1 bedroom1+ bathroomSleeps 474.3 sq m

Popular amenities

Parking available
Dryer
Washer
Kitchen
Outdoor space
Air conditioning

Explore the area

Tampa, FL

University of Tampa
‪4 min drive‬
Raymond James Stadium
‪4 min drive‬
Port of Tampa
‪6 min drive‬
Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)
‪11 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio

Kitchen

Dining area

About this property

Welcome to your own private oasis on the Hillsborough River with breathtaking water and downtown Tampa views. Relax on your own private dock with a cocktail while you wave to passing boaters and kayakers and enjoy seeing all the wildlife that calls the river home.

Hop on the Pirate Water Taxi that picks up at Armature Works ( 5 min drive from the house) and take a cruise down river to the Tampa Riverwalk in downtown Tampa, where you can hop on/off to enjoy some of Tampa’s best restaurants, nightlife, museums and parks!

The boathouse has 1 large bedroom with a King size bed and en suite bathroom with shower.
There is an additional half bathroom as well and a stacked washer and dryer.
The kitchen/living room combo room has breathtaking views of downtown Tampa and the river.
The house was built over 50 years ago and has all the charm of an old Florida house with all the modern amenities you can expect from a vacation rental. You will spend most of your time sitting out on the dock, watching the passing boaters, wildlife and the beautiful view of downtown Tampa. There is nothing fancy about the boathouse, but it has what we all need -a comfy bed, fast WIFI and a comfortable and clean space to relax and get away from it all!
The living room has a sectional couch that transforms into a full size bed that will accommodate another couple or additional children.
The house also has it's own private gated parking lot for your vehicle.

Have a larger group? Combine the boathouse with the Bungalow, listing # 801363 and 991365

Property manager

Lauren T

Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

Outdoor space

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View of river and downtown Tampa from back patio

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Air conditioning

House Rules

Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

You may smoke outside

Cleaning fee does not include removal of trash, or washing of dishes. $25 additional fee taken from damage deposit if not complete.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip

Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Tampa

Located in Tampa, this holiday home is near theme parks and on the waterfront. MacDill Air Force Base and MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre are cultural highlights, and some of the area's popular attractions include Florida Aquarium and ZooTampa at Lowry Park. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Raymond James Stadium or Amalie Arena. Jet skiing, kayaking and scuba diving offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling nearby.

Tampa, FL

What's nearby

Tampa Riverwalk - 4 min drive - 2.4 km
University of Tampa - 4 min drive - 3.3 km
Raymond James Stadium - 4 min drive - 3.8 km
Tampa Convention Center - 6 min drive - 4.8 km
Port of Tampa - 6 min drive - 5.6 km

Getting around

Tampa Union Station - 9 min drive
Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) - 11 min drive

Restaurants

‪Armature Works - ‬3 min drive
‪Tiff's Treats - ‬3 min drive
‪Rick's on the River - ‬3 min walk
‪Rocca - ‬3 min drive
‪Sweetgreen - ‬3 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is The BoatHouse on the Hillsborough River- Enjoy river and downtown water views pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-out at The BoatHouse on the Hillsborough River- Enjoy river and downtown water views?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The BoatHouse on the Hillsborough River- Enjoy river and downtown water views located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is within 2 miles (3 km) of Armature Works, Tampa Riverwalk and University of Tampa. Tampa Convention Center and Raymond James Stadium are also within 3 miles (5 km).

9.4

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

9.2/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

8.6/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Donald and Donna C.

19 Feb 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely as before

Stayed here a few times now. Fantastic and so relaxing! Look forward to stay again when possible!! All the comforts of home and a view to enjoy!!

Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Connie C.

2 Feb 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stay on the River

We enjoyed being on the river. House is close to just about everything. Will definitely rent again.

Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Elise R.

6 Feb 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Winter thaw

This place was exactly as listed. Location was wonderful, property owner was easy to reach and very quick to respond. We will definitely be coming back to this house!

Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tammy B.

30 Jan 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Weekend Trip

We had an amazing weekend at the Boathouse! The views are absolutely stunning—you are literally right on the river, which made for such a peaceful and unique experience. The bed was incredibly comfortable, ensuring a restful stay. We also loved how close it was to Rick’s on the River and Armature Works, making it easy to enjoy great food and drinks nearby. On top of that, the host was very accommodating, making our stay even more enjoyable. Highly recommend for a relaxing getaway!

Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer Q.

26 Sept 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Enjoyable stay

It was simple and cute. Wasnt dissapointed at all! loved morning coffee on the water and the view of tampa at night. Enjoyed the short walk to ricks for good food and luve music.

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laurie D.

1 Oct 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Boat House

Beautiful little spot of heaven on the river! Unfortunately, Helene busted up our party.

Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Richard G.

19 Aug 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Idyllic setting!

We spent such an amazing time at the boat house and we’ll definitely come back again. It was a great pleasure to be on the terrace and to see the landscape. We saw a lot of fishes, birds and even a dolphin. The house was very cosy and well teamed. The bed was very comfortable. Lauren was really sweet and reactive. Karine Marseille- South of France

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bill L.

14 Feb 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Water paradise

The views on the river were overwhelming.Seeing downtown Tampa from the boathouse was wonderful and the constant parade of boats passing by made our day.

Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sandra G.

25 Dec 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful view

Enjoyed the serenity of the river.

Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

karen p.

15 Oct 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

We love this place!

This was our 2nd visit to the Boathouse and it was another great trip. Very cozy and relaxing. The host is amazing and went above and beyond to make something happen for us that was very special. Great anniversary experience!

Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

25 Aug 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Ms Janice

Had a wonderful stay! I will be returning

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

8/10 Good

Samantha R.

23 May 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect view

The property was very comfortable and you couldn't beat the view. Also a short drive to most things in Tampa. The property could use a little TLC but for the price and view, no complaints.

Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

8/10 Good

Matt R.

26 Jan 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy

Tampa area boat house

Nothing fancy but it was adequate. The floors are not exactly level but the view and atmosphere is great. Enjoyed the close proximity to Rick’s on the river.

Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2024

8/10 Good

Debbie B.

20 Feb 2023

Liked: Check-in, communication, listing accuracy

Debbie

It is a cute boathouse with awesome views. Loved watching the rowing teams every morning and evening. Easy to get to Ben Davis beach. Could use some TLC and deep cleaning.

Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

lakeitha l., Winston Salem North Carolina

22 June 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect

This was our 2nd time staying at the boat house and just like last time we cant wait to visit again.The house is so cozy and romantic at night with the lights over the water, it's perfect for a good fishing trip and also about a 45 min drive from some of the best beaches.I wouldnt bring any small children being that its right on the water,honestly i wouldnt want my kids disturbing the peace anyway lol, its just so relaxing.book this house you wont regret it

Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2021

8/10 Good

Lisa S.

20 May 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A GREAT ESCAPE FROM WORK!

This is my second time at this property, first time in the boathouse, and I was very happy with the accommodation. Lauren is great to work with and everything is as described. This is a rental with a lot of character and history and, if you are not seeking luxury and are happy with a fun vibe on a river, the quirks (very sloping flooors) lend charm to the setting. The kitchen appliances and couch are brand new; the bed is comfy, the bathroom has fine water pressure. Only minor issue is that I am a very light sleeper and found the ac in the bedroom too loud, but i figured out to leave the air and celing fan on all day and then just use the celing fan at night. The house temp was 75 in the early a.m, so it all worked out. I will certainly rebook for next year! Thank you Lauren!

Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

8/10 Good

Krista R.

5 July 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy

Relax by the water!

The pictures are truth. What you see is what you get. It was a great little place. The views of the sunset, sunrise and city were amazing. Love the city lights. In the other reviews I read about the "bad neighborhood" yes down the street there is a large apartment complex that is low-income housing. However it is down the road, you have a secure, coded fenced-in parking area. We felt absolutely safe. Crime happens everywhere, just be aware of your surroundings. Don't miss staying in this awesome little place. We will stay again! Thank you!

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Lyle A.

13 Feb 2016

Other wordly...wonderful...unusual in the best way!!

Other reviewers are spot on! I combed through reviews because I needed a vacation that wasn't typical. No hotel lobby, parking lot, neighbors, noise or knocking maids. Perfect. Enter the private gated parking lot, step out of your vehicle, open the reeded gate, walk down the quietly lit walk way, cross the dock over the water and enter the rugged looking boat house abode and smile! You have entered the peace filled zone! First door down the hallway is a tucked away half bath with nautical décor. The next door on your left is the wonderful bedroom with king bed. Empty your suitcases in the ample dressers and closet and do a quick test of the bed! I will warn you though, the water is so close through the window that it caught me off guard! It seems to come up to the window, but of course doesn't!! Then walk the rest of the quirky hallway (you'll figure out what I'm talking about!) and turn left to your living area which is just perfect! Enough seating for eating and relaxing with window views of the river, neighborhood across and distant views that keep your eyes dancing with relaxing interest. I haven't even mentioned the deck surrounding the house...it provides yet another wonderful dimension of your stay!! I stayed for eight amazing days and thoroughly enjoyed every moment. I was sad to leave it, but it was so wonderful that I can close my eyes these weeks later and remember my stay. Cooking is one of my enjoyments and I took advantage of the kitchen. It worked well...I had to get a little creative but liked the challenged. I hope you partake in this little paradise and have great memories as well...

Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2016

8/10 Good

Beth S.

6 June 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy

Unique Place to Stay on Hillsborough River

The time was overall very good. Having repairs done to the dock while we were there, was not a good choice on behalf of the owners. Also, there were light bulbs burned out that need to be replaced. Especially the one under the microwave.

Stayed 7 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Terri N.

24 Apr 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Boathouse

We had a great staybat the boathouse. The property was just as described. We will definitely stay here again.

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Megan T.

24 Nov 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing views!

This location was great!! Lauren was an awesome host. The house was just as shown and described! We loved it. The views were the best part!!

Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

karen p., Savannah

25 Oct 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very unique property

We enjoyed our stay very much. The boathouse is a quirky little place that lives up to its reviews. Only complaint is they’re is only one place to sit…the sofa, and it needs to be replaced. Otherwise, everything was great!

Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2021

8/10 Good

Neil H.

15 Oct 2021

Liked: Check-in, communication

The river house views were unbelievable and special. The river house is very old.

This property has beautiful views. The house is very scary as the floors are banding in the center due to the long beams supporting the floors are bowing. The nearby neighborhoods outside of the gate and fence are very scary as it looks like a high crime scene.

Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Lisa P.

26 Sept 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great views of downtown skyline!

This property is just as described, especially with the great views of downtown Tampa! The outside porch areas are great for watching boat traffic go by. Skip bringing the fishing poles though. Rick's on the River is just a few doors down and a delightful place to grab a quick bite or launch your water toys. Lauren was VERY quick to respond anytime I had a question.

Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Linda H.

7 June 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing

It was the perfect place for us to relax and explore the city. We will stay there again.

Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2021

About the host

Hosted by Lauren T

Tampa native, had vacation rentals since 2010, feel free to ask because I know Tampa very well!

Why they chose this property

Water calms the mind and the second you walk onto our dock you'll instantly relax!

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests

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The BoatHouse on the Hillsborough River- Enjoy river and downtown water views

Photo gallery for The BoatHouse on the Hillsborough River- Enjoy river and downtown water views

Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Spaces

About this property