Entire house boat

Floating Cottage . . . Gently on the river

Photo gallery for Floating Cottage . . . Gently on the river

Terrace/patio
Exterior
Smart TV
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Exterior

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire house boat

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 4550 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Bar
    Bar
  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Pool
    Pool
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space
    Outdoor space
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire house boat to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Floating Cottage . . . Gently on the river

Poised to delight, Floating Cottage provides a magical space to relax, replenish and explore. The sweet yellow cottage defines social distancing, afloat on the river. It is thoroughly cleaned and refreshed between guests, including being sanitized and disinfected.

Relax on the front porch, enjoy the warm breeze while watching turtles swim to the porch to beg for a treat. Refresh in the peaceful comfort of the fully equipped small home.

The cathedral ceilinged living room is bathed in natural light, has hardwood floors, and embraces the outside. Its French doors expand the living area to include the protected front porch. A full size sofa bed, electric potbelly stove, TV and versatile work/dining table grace the homey Floating Cottage.

No ordinary boat galley, the fully equipped kitchen meets the needs of the casual to the gourmet chef with an electric stove, full size side by side refrigerator with door ice dispenser, dishwasher, granite counter tops and tile back splashes. Microwave, toaster, utensils and dinnerware are included.

Walk up the stairs to the carpeted loft bedroom with queen size bed, walk-in closet and be surprised by the stained glass window. The loft is air-conditioned. Open the shades and screened windows to enjoy the gentle river breeze.

The cleverly outfitted bath has a full size shower, flush comfort toilet and stocked closet for linens and toiletries, plus a view-catching window.

The cottage is approached from the dock through the back porch. Notice the gas barbecue for outdoor cooking. It is self-igniting and simple to use.

The French doors to the front porch open the cottage to a full view of the marina surrounded by local forests. With four comfortable chairs, guests of the cottage may choose to sit for hours simply enjoying the quiet peace of the marina. Watch boaters come and go from trips up the lazy St. Johns River or to Lake Monroe to visit Sanford. Turtles swim to the cottage to greet the guests An occasional manatee can be seen from the porch. Herons and egrets are common sights as guests share the lovely outdoors with feathered friends.

Floating Cottage is designed with comfort and efficiency built into the 550 square feet of living space. The movement of the water beneath the hull is barely perceptible while relaxing those who experience a stay in the cottage.

Floating Cottage is berthed in the rural Boat Tree Marina, just north of Lake Monroe on the scenic St. Johns River, a river of abundant wildlife and scenic vistas. The marina offers a casual deli and restaurant, bait shop, laundry and pool. The new restaurant, Cabana Live is opened in the summer of 2023 and will offer a significant discount to cottage guests. There is a pool-side bar associated with the restaurant. Cottage guests may use the pool from morning until the restaurant closes! Stroll to the deli for breakfast and lunch served by the friendly staff. Yes, beer is available for thirsty patrons. Guests of Floating Cottage enjoy a 15% discount on boat rentals for half and full days. The friendly staff at the office will assist with boat reservations as well as with local information on fishing.

Don't miss visiting quaint Old-town Sanford, home to cobblestone streets and brick-lined store fronts, restored nineteenth-century Victorian homes, lovely towering oaks draped with Spanish moss, numerous art galleries, unique shops, pubs and great restaurants. Catch the open market with crafts and produce at the square.

Follow Sanford365.com to explore local events and discover what is happening in the Sanford area.

The Riverwalk on Lake Monroe, over a mile long, has shady places aplenty to watch lake activity or beautiful sunsets and sunrises.

This magical cottage will delight!

Property manager

Kim Hadden

Languages

English

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach towels

Pool/Spa

  • Communal pool

Internet

  • Available in the accommodation: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car recommended
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster
  • Water dispenser

Dining

  • A coffee shop/cafe
  • A poolside bar
  • A restaurant
  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • Bedroom
  • Premium bedding
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Dock
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Coin laundry

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Ceiling fan
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 1 accessible parking space
  • Area rugs in public areas
  • Front entrance ramp
  • Handrails in stairways
  • Hardwood flooring in public areas
  • Thin carpet in public areas
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Housekeeping (on request)

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In a village
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near a train station
  • Near a zoo
  • Near the airport
  • Near the boardwalk/promenade
  • Near the marina
  • On a river
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Boat
  • Kayaking
  • Motor boating
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • 1 building
  • 2 floors
  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Built in 2014
  • Double-glazed windows
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Eco-friendly toiletries
  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Unit size: 550 square feet
  • Water dispenser
  • Water-efficient showers
  • Water-efficient toilets

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

Guests will receive an email with check-in information
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Rollaway/extra beds are not available
Cribs (infant beds) are not available
Note from host: Please contact owner to discuss toddler safety

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay the following charges at the property. Fees may include applicable taxes:

  • Cleaning fee: USD 100.00 per accommodation, per stay

We have included all charges provided to us by the property.

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

This property does not have elevators
A car is recommended for transportation to and from this property

Property is also known as

Welcome Floating Cottage . . . Florida's Scenic St. Johns River
Floating Gently On The River
Welcome Floating Cottage . . . Florida's Scenic St. Johns River
Floating Cottage . . . Gently on the River Sanford
Floating Cottage . . . Gently on the River Houseboat
Floating Cottage . . . Gently on the River Houseboat Sanford

About the area

Map
Sanford, FL

What's nearby

  • Lake Monroe - 3 min drive - 2.4 km
  • Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens - 3 min drive - 2.3 km
  • Seminole Towne Center - 7 min drive - 5.3 km
  • Gemini Springs Park - 7 min drive - 5.8 km
  • St. Johns Rivership - 9 min drive - 9.1 km

Getting around

  • DeBary Station - 6 min drive
  • Sanford Station - 8 min drive
  • Orlando Sanford Intl. Airport (SFB) - 16 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Chick-fil-A - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Texas Roadhouse - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Cracker Barrel - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Floating Cottage . . . Gently on the river have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool.

Is Floating Cottage . . . Gently on the river pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Floating Cottage . . . Gently on the river?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Floating Cottage . . . Gently on the river?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Floating Cottage . . . Gently on the river located?

Situated on the waterfront, this houseboat is within 2 mi (3 km) of Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Black Bear Wilderness Area, and Lake Monroe. Lake Monroe Park is 1.7 mi (2.8 km) away.

Floating Cottage . . . Gently on the river Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 139 out of 146 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 146 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 146 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 146 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 146 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Christine F.

Liked: Cleanliness
A Beautiful And Unique Experience
Kim was an excellent hostess. My son and I loved the little cottage as well as all of the wild life that surrounds it. Thank you for the wonderful accommodations.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Edward W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Making great memories staying on the floating cottage
The floating cottage exceeded our expectations...kim is a wonderful host..best host ive ever dealt with on a vrbo rental..the floating cottage was very clean and stocked with everything a guest could want..feeding the 🐢 was such a neat thing to do! We brought our boat and was able to keep it 2 slips away which made it very convenient to use..we will definitely be booking this cottage again...it made such great memories for my fiancée and I. !!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lori C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Most serene setting!!
Beautifully maintained and well-prepared property! The host is SUPER, ready at all times to answer questions and assist in any way! We are already planning our next visit!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Debra D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Winter Respite
This was our second winter stay at this charming cottage, having had such a wonderful first experience. The cottage continued to delight as we became even more familiar with what the area had to offer. Kim was an excellent hostess as were her on-site assistants. We were well taken care of and appreciated their attention to our needs. We look forward to when we have an opportunity to return.
Stayed 41 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

judy s.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fantastic
The floating cottage is wonderful. You walk in and you instantly feel at home and that you could spend a lot of time here. Out host was great - she gave us detailed information and made sure that our stay was a great experience. The turtles were fun watch. We will definitely return.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

James B., Mint Hill, United States of America

Liked: Cleanliness
Very Relaxing
Another great stay on the "floating cottage". From our first trip many years ago to now it has remained our home away from home. The yellow boat is always neat and clean, with most anything you need aboard. Kim, the host, is very informative and responds quickly whenever we have contacted her. The boat is within walking distance to two places for food and drink and many activities are available by a short drive. The full-size kitchen with a refrigerator, stove, dishwasher and a grill on the rear deck, make it great for extended stays. We love staying on the floating cottage and look forward to another trip.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joe G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Little Gem
This was the 1st time that my wife and I stayed in a boathouse. The owner keeps the property meticulously clean and provides crystal clear communication throughout the process. Everything was done remotely and there was no need for any direct interaction. The accommodations were very comfortable and the owner made everything you can think of available, including a couple of small fishing poles that we used to fish off the patio and dock. It was very peaceful just sitting on the patio and watching the friendly turtles hover for food. Right off the dock is Connie’s Deli which serves breakfast and lunch. Connie and her staff are very friendly and the food was great. In the evening, you can just walk across the parking lot to Cabana’s which is basically a sports bar with tons of TVs and a pool area. People were very nice and we really liked their food. If you drive into Sanford, it’s a cute little town with a bunch of shops and restaurants. We had lunch in the German restaurant which was a lot of fun and had live music in the middle of the day. Will definitely consider renting here again!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jan K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Another great "float"!!!
This is my 4th Annual Christmas Float! Kim is a super host, and responds quickly to comments and concerns. She even provides turtle food! Everything about the Floating Cottage is just right for a solo Floater! (FYI: The bathroom is "tiny" and the walk-in shower is just big enough to stand in.) The bed is comfy and the furnishings are accommodating. The kitchen is "full size" and is stocked with everything you need to make a meal (including a toaster!). Kim wisely provides a couple of folding tables, which I find handy to have. The "back deck" offers a pleasant space to sit and read...and to feed the turtles! There is a washer/dryer available (a detached building near the onsite restaurant, you pay with a credit card). Kim's wi-fi service is excellent, and easily streams movies. Honestly, I'd live there if I could! Can't wait until my 5th Annual Christmas Float in 2024!
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michelle

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This property was very unique. We felt like we had the marina all to ourselves most days! The kitchen was equipped better than most places I have stayed at previously. If I'm ever in the area, I would stay here again! The host Kim kept me informed of local activities which was a nice touch and appreciated! Thank you!

10/10 Excellent

Stacy D., Boynton Beach USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Simply Paradise
I would give 10 stars if it was an option! Kim is the most amazing property manager! She is so detailed that it makes your trip so enjoyable. The floating cottage is so peaceful, clean, and so close to everything. You literally just need to bring your suitcase. The turtles greet you the minute you step foot on the patio. They are so cute and a bonus to this slice of paradise in FL. Thank you Kim and we will be booking again soon!
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kathryn S., Homestead, FL

Liked: Cleanliness
Delightful, relaxing, home away from home.
I am a huge fan of tiny house living and this floating cottage was the perfect tiny house. Full kitchen and bath, comfortable bed (even the hideabed) and a perfect back porch on the water. And the breakfast/lunch deli just steps away has good food served by nice people. However, my biggest compliment goes to the owner. She is the best! We had a few minor issues that were taken care of immediately with the greatest of care. She made us feel like welcome friends in her home. Can't wait to go back!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Beth K., Upper St. Clair Township, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania

Liked: Cleanliness
Weeekend getatway
Just such a lovely lil gem that provided such a much needed getaway. Love that we could dock our wave runner right beside us too! Have to say, we already miss feeding the turtles but we will be back!!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

8/10 Good

Sherry L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Relax while afloat!
This was our second stay at this quaint property. From the time we decided to stay again thru our check out Kim was terrific. She stayed in contact with us thru the entire process. This is one of the most relaxing vacations we have every taken, and the second time around lived up to our expectations from the first experience. We cannot wait to book again for another week afloat! Thanks Kim for being such a wonderful host!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sandra E.

Liked: Cleanliness
Long weekend family getaway
Owner was very hospitable and considerate, cottage was nice and clean, with nice view by the porch, good place to relax and enjoy.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Debbie N.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing floating yellow cottage
We had the most amazing time. The cottage is warm and welcoming. The pictures can’t even describe how beautiful it is. Our host Kim was fantastic she kept in touch with us each day since we were in a hurricane and she wanted us to know we were cared about. The turtles gret you every morning and evening. We can’t say enough about our experience. We will definitely be back hopefully in end of October or November
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lisa M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing Floating Tiny Cottage
We absolutely loved our stay in the Floating Tiny Cottage. The place is so relaxing and Kim our host went over and above. It is so nicely decorated and has everything you could need for a amazing stay. The turtles wait for you at the front porch every morning, we loved watching them while we had our morning coffee. We will definitely be back soon. I highly recommend the Tiny Flosting Cottage.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lori C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Floating Cottage
It completely met, and surpassed our expectations! So sweet, quaint and perfectly located near Old Town Sanford! Our host, Kim is exceptional! So helpful and big on communication, which we totally appreciated. Can't wait to return!💋❤️
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Colleen

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
What a gem! The cottage was immaculate and had everything you need and more. Awesome location, great food with a pool and boats for rent. Kim is an excellent host! She made sure our stay was relaxing and comfortable. Kim went above and kept me informed on the remodel of the restaurant and pool leading up to our stay. Oh and it's 5 minutes from the Zoo and Historic Sanford, not to mention the Riverwalk.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Candice z.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing!!!
Everything online was exactly as we found it. The accommodations were amazing. Little gem, cabana Live, was very friendly and a great clean place. Would highly recommend stay here for a relaxing time.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Angie B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing and unforgettable experience!
The cottage was perfect and exactly as described. Kim has thought of everything to make the experience super smooth and stress free. This was our best vacation ever and we hope to return again! Definitely recommend!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne C., Titusville, Florida

Liked: Cleanliness
Absolutely perfect!
My husband and I stayed in the Floating Cottage June 16th through the 19th. 2023. Everything in the cottage was as it looks in the listing, beautifully set up, clean, and well stocked. The communication from the owner, Kim, was amazing! We never had a question about anything as all information was provided well ahead of time, and again right before we arrived. The bed was very comfortable, as well as the other furniture, and we had plenty of room. We were very impressed with this accommodation. The pots and pans were high-end and the eating and cooking utensils were obviously new and well maintained. Everything in this house was perfection. We brought our 16 ft Gheenoe skiff and tied it up to the dock next to the cottage. It was so convenient to just step out onto the dock, hop in the boat, and go out on the St. Johns River. Boats can also be rented at the marina. The cottage is nestled into a quiet corner of the marina, and we loved sitting out on the deck over the water, enjoying the view. Connie's Deli is just up the ramp from the cottage. We ate there several times. The food is freshly made, delicious, and a great value. Service is also top notch. Downtown Sanford historic district, a short drive away, is beautiful with brick streets, gorgeous homes, shops and restaurants. Nature trails, parks, and bike trails, are among many other things to see in the area. We definitely recommend the Floating Cottage!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nicole S.

Liked: Cleanliness
A Unique Vacation
Stayed at the adorable Floating Cottage with my husband and 14 yr old son. We were charmed by this tiny floating home! It has everything you need to stay there. Just bring your suitcase! There is a full kitchen that is stocked with utensils, paper plates, etc. We made dinner on our first night and enjoyed the ambiance of this little river retreat. The resident turtles were waiting for us every time we went out the patio door. They were so cute! Kim is a great host, is extremely accommodating and easy to communicate with. We rented a pontoon boat from the marina for the day on Saturday and enjoyed sightseeing on the river as well. This was a fun and unique vacation and we hope to come back and stay again. My only suggestion to others is to bring an additional portable fan to help cool off in the downstairs area, especially during the heat of the day as it gets stuffy. Temps in the summer here in FL get up to 90 degrees and above so I travel with mine everywhere. Overall, we enjoyed this experience and highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amy L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing
My husband and I both work highly stressful and demanding jobs. We wanted something calm and relaxing. This was the perfect get away! The owner was so nice and stayed in contact up until we arrived. The wildlife is amazing and there is tons of shopping and site seeing in the area. I do recommend going to the zoo and historical down town.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sandy B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Floating cottage
I stayed here for a much needed girls weekend. If I could give the host 10 stars, I would. Kim was so accommodating, very friendly and even allowed us to check in early. She was also able to offer a late check out because she didn’t have guest checking in. This cottage was as cute as a button, well stocked with anything you may need and very clean. The marina was quiet, the staff friendly. I can’t wait to book it again for another weekend.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness
Fantastic!
I had a wonderful stay at the Floating Cottage - it was the peaceful and relaxing respite I was looking for. The house is exactly as described in the listing - clean, cozy, and comfortable, with everything you need for your stay. I saw lots of turtles and a gator or two while I was there for a couple of days. The host is terrific - great communication with all of the info I needed for my stay. She was also very kind and helped me work around a scheduling issue on my end after I had made my booking. Check-in and check-out was a breeze. 100% would recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023