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Cast Off for Adventure in Comfort Aboard Your Rental Houseboat

By Sharon O'Brien, About.com

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What About the Cost of Fuel for Rental Houseboats?

Gas prices are another cost of renting a houseboat. Gasoline typically costs about $1 more per gallon at lakeside pumps where you’ll be filling your tank, and houseboats are far from fuel-efficient. Depending on size and other factors, most rental houseboats burn between eight and 18 gallons of fuel every hour, and cruise at 5 mph to 10 mph.

To save money on fuel, try cruising less. Spend more time anchored in one or two locations, and use the dinghy that comes with your boat to go ashore or visit other inlets. Even with the high cost of fuel, renting a houseboat can offer a unique vacation experience for less than you would spend on hotels, restaurants and entertainment during many typical land-based vacations.

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