Entire house boat

Tugboat/Private Lake - Farm Animals - Fish, Swim, Boat, Hike/Bike 5+Miles Trails

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January 2025

Photo gallery for Tugboat/Private Lake - Farm Animals - Fish, Swim, Boat, Hike/Bike 5+Miles Trails

Terrace/patio
Property grounds
Miscellaneous
Miscellaneous
Interior

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire house boat

3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 546 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
  • Pet-friendly
  • Outdoor space
  • Air conditioning
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Louisa, VA
  • Downtown Mall
    38 min drive
  • University of Virginia
    44 min drive
  • Monticello
    44 min drive
  • Louisa, VA (LOW-Louisa County - Freeman Field)
    18 min drive

Room options

Similar properties

About the area

Louisa

Located in Louisa, this houseboat is on the waterfront, within a 15-minute drive of Louisa Arts Center and Louisa Town Park. .This houseboat is 19.6 mi (31.5 km) from Lake Anna and 6 mi (9.6 km) from Town of Louisa Community Park.

What's nearby

  • Downtown Mall - 38 min drive
  • University of Virginia Hospital - 44 min drive
  • University of Virginia - 44 min drive
  • Monticello - 44 min drive
  • Trump Winery - 45 min drive

Getting around

  • Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport (CHO) - 49 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Southern Revere Cellars - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Smokin' Eddies BBQ - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Roma Italian Restaurant - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Los Tres Potrillos - ‬13 min drive

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.

Tugboat/Private Lake - Farm Animals - Fish, Swim, Boat, Hike/Bike 5+Miles Trails

Get swept away to a Magical Tug/Houseboat! Newly renovated with all modern conveniences, including fully stocked kitchen, full bathroom, AC, heat, & WiFi. The Luxury Tugboat floats on an 8 acre private Lake with an Island on 142 Wooded Acres, with 5+miles of hiking trails. Enjoy Swimming, Kayaking, Stand Up Paddle boarding, Fishing, Hiking, Exploring, or just relax on your own beach by the fire pit. Only our family and our Log Cabin and Airstream Listings have access to the Lake and Property. We also have some farm animals...Sheep, ducks, chickens and rabbits that you can meet and feed.

*Please read entire listing*
Our goal is to provide a unique adventure for guests with all the conveniences of home.
Our Custom Tugboat was brought all the way from Connecticut! Getting the boat in the water and put back together was it's own adventure!
The Tug is at the opposite side of the Lake from our home and our Log Cabin Listing. Guests can drive over the Dam to the other side of the lake where you can park (Paved road except last 1500' is gravel/dirt 4x4 is NOT required). From there you walk a short way through a beautiful wooded trail(1/10th of a mile or 500').
We provide a yard cart to help move luggage or we are happy to help deliver your luggage for you with our ATV.(Please let us know in advance if you will need help)

Inside The Tug Boat
There is a Galley/Kitchen with cooktop, microwave, coffee pot, full-size refrigerator w/ freezer, utensils and everything for your cooking needs. We do provide coffee, tea, sugar, flour, condiments(Ketchup, Mustard, Mayo) along with spices and cooking oils.
The main level:
Has a lovely dining area with view of the lake and kitchen, there is a Double Bed located at the stern of the boat. There is a twin air mattress located in a drawer under the main level bed that can be blown up and placed in the dining area. A small full bathroom is also located on the main level of the boat with a full shower and flushing toilet.

The Pilot house/upper level:
Offers 360 degree views of the Lake and Forest. Accessed from a ladder and trap door within the boat or from the outside stairs. There is a comfy seating area that transforms into a California King Bed. Enjoy your coffee or cocktails on a deck overlooking the water with the best views on the property. This is the spot for stargazing, with no light pollution whatsoever.

The Outdoor space:
Is very well lit at night by twinkle lights(can be turned off) which makes for a very romantic setting. A beach area sits just outside the Tug to play, launch boats or slowly wade into the water. Kayaks are provided and trails are right outside your door that can be taken all the way around the lake and more! There is a large fire pit with a grate that swings over for grilling over wood or charcoal. We sell dry Firewood or you can help yourself to any fallen wood that you can find.

There is never a lifeguard on duty! Please use life vests and supervise children. By booking with us you agree to use the lake, trails, and property at your and your guests own risk.
Swimming, or any other water play is at your own risk. You are accepting responsibility of yourself and other guests when having full use of the property, trail hikes, biking, swimming...etc.

Please use your best judgement when bringing children of all ages, if you are unsure about something please ask.
No parties.
No outside guests allowed.
No motorized vehicles on trails or Lake
No jumping/diving off boat - SHALLOW water


You will most likely meet our golden-doodle Mabel while hiking. She is extremely friendly but please do let us know if she's a bother. She enjoys meeting new guests and their furry companions and is wonderful with kids!

FAQ:
WIFI?
Wifi is provided through Starlink, which typically works great for streaming movies, music and social media.

Are Dogs allowed?
We are allowing dogs on a case by case basis. You may need to lift your dog in and out of the boat. There is a 2 step ladder down into the boat, some dogs jump in. We do charge a $125/ per pet fee that we charge in advance. The terrain is dirt/gravel so please wipe paws so we can keep the Tug beautiful and maintain our rental. Please do not allow dogs on the furniture.

Does the boat rock?
Yes, but not much under normal circumstances. Mostly just when someone is getting on or off.

Is there Heat and A/C?
Yes, there is one window mounted A/C unit on each level and will be equipped with space heaters durning the cold months (It stays quite warm with little effort). Of course the boat will not regulate temperature as well as a home so please come prepared with warm and cold weather clothes.

How are the bugs?
The Tug boat is in the middle of the forest on a Lake, so yes there will be bugs, frogs, toads, and all that mother nature has to offer. Mosquitos are not bad at all, but bring bug spray anyway.

Can you Swim in the Lake?
Yes, our family swims here on a regular basis. About 1/2 way to the island the water is much deeper and makes for a nice swimming spot.

Is there a motor?
No, the boat cannot be moved around the Lake.

Is it safe for kids?
Please note that while we have done our best to make the Tug safe for everyone, it may not be suitable for all young children. The boat is surrounded by water and forest with many entrances and exits. Please use your best judgement as parents.

Is there running water?
Yes, there are 2- 50 Gallon tanks of water and a pump that turns on when you open a faucet. If you run out during your stay we can easily fill it back up! We fill a 1 Gallon Jug in the refrigerator for drinking. The water is potable but if you'd like to limit the use of water please bring more drinking water. We do provide marine safe/ biodegradable soap in the shower and at the kitchen sink.

How big are the doors?
Please see our pictures and info under accessibility. There is no standard size door to use, so please ensure you are comfortable with the small doors before booking.

Can you jump off the boat?
NO! The Tug is docked in 2-3' of water.

Is there a grill?
The fire pit has a grate that swings over the fire for grilling over wood or charcoal! It is also the perfect setup for S'Mores! You may purchase wood from us and we provide lighters and grilling tools in the Tug.

Do you need 4 wheel drive?
No, after our paved driveway the road turns to gravel and dirt. However, it is hard packed soil and gravel and fairly easy to manage for most cars. If you are concerned, you can park on the driveway and we will help you get to the boat.

Does boat make noise?
You will hear the bilge pumps occasionally test for resistance. They are located in the hull on the front and back of the boat and it sounds like a dull groan.

*Please read all rules*
Our family lives here and we have other listings on the property, please be courteous:)
No loud music as it disrupts the sounds of nature and possibly other guests. Noise does travel across the lake.

There is never a lifeguard on duty! Please use life vests and supervise children. By booking with us you agree to use the lake, trails, and property at your and your guests own risk.
Swimming, Kayaking, SUP, or any other water play is at your own risk. You are accepting responsibility of yourself and other guests when having full use of the property, trail hikes, biking, fishing...etc.

Please use your best judgement when bringing children of all ages, if you are unsure about something please ask.

No parties.

No outside guests allowed.

You must be comfortable climbing a ladder to the loft.
There's a private balcony. A kitchen is outfitted with a full-sized refrigerator/freezer, a stovetop, and a microwave. A Smart television and a DVD player are provided for your entertainment, while complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected. The bathroom has a shower and a hair dryer.
Take in the views from a garden and make use of amenities such as charcoal grills.
Guests will find features like wireless internet access and onsite parking.

Property manager

Ashleigh Furcron

Languages

English

Property amenities

Beach

  • Near the beach

Internet

  • Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • On-site parking
  • Car recommended

Kitchen

  • Fridge (full size)
  • Stovetop
  • Microwave
  • Freezer
  • Toaster
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Spices

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathrooms

  • 1 bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided
  • Hairdryer

Living spaces

  • Dining room

Entertainment

  • Smart TV
  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Video library
  • Books
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Garden
  • Charcoal grills
  • Garden
  • Firepit

Laundry

  • Near a laundromat

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • 1 total pets
  • Welcoming dogs only

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have any requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Lift
  • Gravel flooring in public areas
  • Smoke-free property
  • Note from host: Smoking outside is fine

Location highlights

  • On the lake
  • On the waterfront
  • In a rural location
  • Near a hospital

Things to do

  • Water sports equipment
  • Fitness facilities nearby
  • Kayaking on site
  • Boating on site
  • Sledging nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Horse riding nearby
  • Power boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Winery tours nearby
  • Swimming nearby

Safety features

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

General

  • Unit size: 500 sq ft (46 sq m)

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

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

Pets

Pets allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
1 total pets
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property at the number on the booking confirmation
Note from host: Pets on a Case by Case basis. Must be friendly wit

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Note from host: Please use your best judgment when bringing childr

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
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 and a first aid kit
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

A car is recommended for transportation to and from this property

Property is also known as

orp5b6139bx
Vrbo Property

Tugboat/Private Lake - Farm Animals - Fish, Swim, Boat, Hike/Bike 5+Miles Trails Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 68 out of 69 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 69 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 69 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 69 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 69 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jodi E.

Liked: Cleanliness
Birthday celebration
The property was even cuter than it’s pictures and we had a wonderful time! I especially loved the resident ducks😊
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bryan S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Unique and fun
We stayed 2 nights in the Tugboat and it was the perfect escape. The lake and trails were amazing scenery for a relaxing weekend, and the closeness to Louisa/Charlottesville made it easy to make short trips to break up the day.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christopher K.

Liked: Cleanliness
A wonderful stay in nature
We had such a wonderful time sitting by the pond! The ducks were delightful companions, adding a special charm to the setting. Cooking over the fire was a joy, and the hosts were incredibly kind and helpful, giving us space once we were settled. Thank you for this unforgettable experience!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Marilyn F.

Liked: Cleanliness
We will be back!
Ashleigh and Michael have thought about every detail when it comes to staying here. They are great communicators of what you need to bring and what is supplied. It makes planning so much easier. I don’t know how many times we’ve stayed somewhere not knowing what was needed. They have everything listed down to the condiments provided in the refrigerator. Everything is labeled and well organized. The tug boat was very clean. The location is beautiful and so quiet. We look forward to staying here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Carolyn L.

Liked: Cleanliness
The Perfect Getaway!
The Lux Tug exceeded ALL expectations! It is charming and beautifully appointed with comfortable, welcoming, cozy finishes and design elements. It was roomy and my husband at 6'4" could fully stand inside. The location was peaceful and spectacular 360 views upstairs in the pilot house. (Perfect place to nap during an afternoon rain shower!) The property was fun to explore - hiking, kayaking, and everything was well maintained! It was magical at night with string lights lit up outside....and all interior lights are also dimmable, allowing guests to customize each space for ambience and/or function. We highly recommend this unique experience to all!!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness
Cozy Tug Boat Getaway
Wonderful stay on the boat. Everything we needed was there, including duck food for our morning guests. Kayaks and SUP were easily accessible. The boat was super clean and the air conditioning was great during our July visit. We would love to return if we are in the area. Truly a memorable place to stay while seeing Monticello.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gwynn W.

Liked: Cleanliness
AMAZING!!
I can’t believe we found such a beautiful spot! I don’t think I can say enough good things about this trip. The tug was so unique and perfect. It’s amazing clean and decorated perfectly. The whole property is an adventure. We lacked for nothing. And the owners…..they are some of the kindest people we have ever met. So excited to book another stay with them!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Trisha M.

Liked: Cleanliness
100% Recommend Staying at this Property!!!!!
This is the rating of our guests who visited us for the day. They too were amazed and the planning began for another trip!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lourdes C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Magical!
Our tugboat weekend was absolutely magical! The property is beautiful, and the tugboat is so charming. Our daughter loved adventuring through the trails, kayaking, making s’mores and even befriended the ducks on the property. We will most definitely return. Ashleigh, thank you for a beautiful stay!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jordan M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome trip!
Our second time to visit the tug boat and it was just as magical as the first! Ashleigh and her family do a great job of making you feel welcomed. This property is so relaxing and I highly recommend it.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robert M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Special spring break
So many firsts in a short weekend for our kids; first time kayaking, first large mouth bass, first time spending the night in a tugboat! Absolutely wonderful, attentive hosts and a wonderful property. Hiking trails, swimming, fishing, kayaking, all within feet of the front door of fantastically unique lodging. Also the friendliest possible place for our pup, who free roamed with his new pup pals sll over the woods and in the lake.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dickie C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing
We loved every second of Tug Life! Such a charming, hygee, magical experience. We brought our telescope and the views where amazing at night and sunsets where breathtaking in the morning. The owners where awesome and everything is laid out and labeled perfectly. We never once had to scramble to figure something out. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amanda M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful time on the tug boat!
Our family of 3 had the best time staying on the boat and taking walks around the property. Meeting the hosts and their friendly animals were a highlight, and we'd love to come back during the warmer months. The boat was heated and cozy, even during winter. The owners have done an amazing job with their property and it is definitely worth a visit year round.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dana M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Magical
Tug Life! Two couples fit perfectly and comfortably. We had a magical experience complete with ducks!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Laura G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful winter getaway
We spent 2 nights at the amazing tug boat for our little winter getaway. Our first night was incredible with the fire pit and watching the stars. Day two was a crazy rainy day but we enjoyed seeing the ducks, exploring in the rain, and playing games! The tug was externally comfy and both beds were very cozy. We spent the second day mostly inside and really loved the card games and tv for a movie night. The owner was so responsive and everything about our stay was such a special experience. Will def stay here again!!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Renee G.

Liked: Cleanliness
A stargazers dream!
What a little gem in the middle of the beautiful state of Virginia. We had a wonderful time and the tugboat was amazing. So quaint and fun. At night we sat on the deck and watched the stars. It was an incredible star show. This is a terrific place to stay! We recommend it for everyone.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Nicole F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Boathouse Getaway
We had the best weekend getaway on the boathouse. Our 7 and 10 year old had a blast fishing, paddle boarding, kayaking, and sitting in the hammock swings around the camp fire. Ashleigh and her husband thought of everything for families to enjoy themselves. Great time had by all!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Raelynn H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Magical!
We adored every second we spent here! Can’t explain it in any other way than just magical. Host was fantastic with communicating and everything was perfect! They really killed it with the essentials in the boat, we forgot so many little things so that was a life saver. We definitely plan on coming back in the future
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Katherine (Kay) P., Raleigh, NC

Liked: Cleanliness
Gorgeous property, wonderful hosts!
What a fun and unique adventure!! We were 3 adults, 2 kids and a dog and there was plenty of space for all of our stuff! The hosts were so welcoming and extremely responsive to our needs and were happy to share the history of the tugboat. Some extra details- the cooking grate over the fire pit is really handy, it is a large circular grate with a handle that you slice horizontally over the flames, lots of space for a full meal. There is storage space for luggage in several common areas and along a long bench in the bedroom. The entry into the water is shallow and sandy, perfect for swimming and launching the kayaks and paddleboard. There is a bathroom, but do expect that the toilet is not one that you are used to in your own home, it is designed for 'Tug Life' but easy to figure out. There is no bathroom sink, so teeth brushing and hand washing is done in the kitchen sink, which worked out fine. The boat is a lot of fun, but definitely for able bodied people- there is a lot of ducking and climbing! Our dog was able to jump down into the boat, and learned to walk up the small ladder to get out. Watching the shooting stars from the pilot house at night was quite a treat. The a/c units worked great and we were very comfortable. This was truly an experience that we will remember forever- living on a charming tugboat on this scenic private lake with all the comforts of home.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Robert S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Peaceful
Lovely get away.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Nicole R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Tugboat Oasis
A perfect couples weekend getaway from Richmond. The private lake is stunning and we really enjoyed walking the trails, kayaking and feeding the ducks! The tugboat is designed so beautifully and stocked with everything you'll need. Highly recommend this little gem! Thanks, Ashleigh!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Renee L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Tugboat Thanksgiving
We had such a fun and relaxing stay!! Lots of hiking, kayaking and peaceful nights around the fire and under the stars. Very clean with pretty much every amenity you might need. Internet worked fine, no noise and lots of nature....Perfect! The only drawback I could say is if you are a VERY Tall person, it might be a little hard to get in and out of the tug. (there is always the option of climbing up top and coming down the stairs rather than through the small doors) Otherwise Perfect!! Our dog had a blast running in the woods!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Geraldine M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Bucolic stay in house boat on private lake
We had an awesome stay at the tugboat surrounded by nature (hiking trails, lake swimming, paddling and kayaking). Hosts were welcoming and available for questions.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kristine F., Arlington, VA

Liked: Cleanliness
Love!
We had an absolutely perfect long weekend staying on the Tugboat. All the small details on the Tugboat made for such a special and magical stay. We loved being right on the water and enjoyed stargazing without any light pollution in the evenings - we've never seen so many stars! My son fished right off the boat, while my daughter kayaked around Lake Glen Haven. Ashleigh, Mike and their kids are wonderful hosts and just wonderful people. We can't wait to visit again.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Loved the Tuglife
Wonderful experience! We went here for my Husband’s birthday and everyone had a blast. So unique and really a wonderful way to decompress from life and relax in true glamping fashion. Hosts were so sweet and super communicative which made me feel really good and safe. Extra love goes out to the three ducks who we named Suzie, Chad, and Kevin- they visited us all day long and it was so adorable having them around. Would definitely stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021