Houseboat Packing List & What to Bring
Everything you need to know to prepare for a comfortable and stress-free houseboat trip at Emerald Cove Marina.
Getting Ready for Your Trip
A little preparation goes a long way toward a relaxing houseboat vacation. While our houseboats are fully equipped for safety and basic operation, guests are responsible for bringing personal items, food, and certain comfort essentials.
This guide outlines what you’ll need to bring, what is provided onboard, and which items may be available for purchase at the Emerald Cove Marina General Store.
Bedding & Sleeping Arrangements
During the summer months, a light blanket is usually sufficient. Pillows are provided on main beds only; however, some houseboats do not have designated “main beds,” and we recommend bringing your own pillows for comfort regardless.
Important notes by boat type:
• Luxury Houseboats (Emerald, Sapphire, Ruby): Comforters are provided. Guests must bring their own sheets for the main beds.
• 55’ Deluxe Houseboats: No bedding is provided.
• Bedding is not sold in the marina store.
Towels & Clothing
Please bring plenty of towels for your stay, including:
Bath towels
Beach towels
Kitchen towels
We also recommend packing extra footwear, sunglasses, hats, and multiple sets of swimwear for comfort throughout your trip.
Toiletries & Personal Items
Septic-safe toilet paper and paper towels are provided onboard. All other personal care items should be brought with you.
Recommended personal items include:
Soaps and shampoo
Hair dryer
Sunscreen
Mosquito repellent
Personal hygiene items and medications
Water & Utilities
Each houseboat is equipped with potable water designed to last approximately seven days under normal use.
A secondary water spigot draws directly from the lake and is intended for rising off sand and showering. Many guests prefer to bring additional bottled drinking water for convenience.
Life Vests & Safety Equipment
Safety life vests are provided for the maximum number of occupants allowed aboard each houseboat.
If you are traveling with small children or larger individuals, you may wish to bring personal life jackets that fit snugly and comfortably. Additional, more comfortable life vests may be available upon request.
Essential Items Available in the Marina Store
The Emerald Cove Marina General Store carries many convenience items and essentials; however, inventory is not guaranteed, especially during peak season.
The nearest full grocery store is located approximately 25 minutes away in Oregon House, with a smaller convenience store located about 15 minutes away in Camptonville.
Gasoline for boats is available at several locations around the marina.
Food and Drinks
Ground coffee
Frozen burritos
Hot pockets
Lunchables
Salami
Beer
Cans of dog food
Peanut butter
Pasta
Pasta sauce
Pizza sauce
Canned corn
Canned chili
Condiments (mustard, ketchup, BBQ sauce, hot sauce, relish, salt & pepper)
Spices
BBQ, Tools & Supplies
BBQ brush
BBQ lighter
BBQ lighter fluid
Charcoal
Instant light BBQ charcoal
Metal s’mores sticks
Carving kit (fork & long carving knife)
Small stove propane
Motor oil
Spray bottles
Antibacterial wipes
Dish soap
Bleach
Trash bags
Foil
Cling wrap
Flashlights
Duct tape
Packing tape
Zip ties
Citronella candles
Paper Goods and Utensils
Paper plates
Paper cups
Red Solo cups
Plastic utensil sets
Cupcake papers
Coffee filters
Paper towels
Toilet paper
Toiletries, Health & First Aid
- Mosquito repellent
- Rubbing alcohol
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Pepto-Bismol
- Antacid
- Gas relief tablets
- Alka-Seltzer
- Tylenol
- Ibuprofen
- Band-Aids
- Gauze
- Waterproof bandage tape
- Hydrocortisone cream
- Itch relief cream
- Infection protection ointment
- Liquid skin
- Mini first aid kit
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Hand soap
- Feminine hygiene products
- Floss
- Toothpaste
- Toothbrush
- Deodorant
- Shaving cream
- Travel-size shampoo
- Conditioner
- Body bar soap
- Sunscreen
- Tweezers
- Nail clippers
- Ear plugs
- Eye drops
Have Questions?
Call the Marina Office: (530) 692-3201
