What is the fuel consumption on the boats?
The houseboat has one 140 hp Volvo Penta inboard/outboard engine that burns three to four gallons per hour. Each houseboat also includes a generator to power the party. Typically, it needs to run for about four hours per day to keep the batteries charged. When running, the generator burns one gallon per hour.
Because these boats have a single motor, they are very economical to operate. Our customers find beautiful beaches as soon as they leave 7 Bays, so you needn't travel far if fuel cost is an issue.

What is the average fuel cost for a vacation?
The amount of gas used on a trip is hard to average, because it depends entirely on how much a group water skis or jet skis and, of course, how far you travel with the houseboat. Newcomers want to see all that they can, whereas repeat customers usually go to their favorite beach, park and hang out for days.

Is there fresh water on board?
Yes, 105 gallons. There is a common misconception that this is your shower and dishwashing water. The 105 gallons available is strictly for your consumption.

Do you need experience or a license to drive these big boats?
Absolutely not! During your pre-departure briefing, one of Dakota Columbia's experienced staff will walk you through everything regarding the lake and the operation of your houseboat. Once the briefing concludes, our staff will drive the boat out into open water offering tips along the way, teach you how to beach the boat properly and happily send you off for your vacation. On the last day, you will use the boat's marine radio to call "Dakota Operations". At that time, someone will come out of the marina to pilot the boat to shore. This eliminates any stress of having to operate the boat in tight spaces.

What's your favorite destination on the lake?
I am frequently asked this question and for me, I guess it depends on what I'm looking for on any given day. For sheer awe-inspiring beauty, you must take an evening drift through Hawk Creek Canyon. To watch the sunset, it's Halverson Canyon with our favorite bottle of wine. For fall bear watching, I like the beach directly across from 7 Bays Marina on the Colville Reservation. There are special maps aboard our houseboats calling out great suggestions for folks who have never been out before.

What's the difference between the Nova and Galaxy Class?
The Nova is two feet longer than the Galaxy in the forward salon creating a different furniture configuration. The staterooms for each boat are the same, but the Nova has central air conditioning throughout the boat while the Galaxy offers air conditioning to the living room only. The Nova is equipped with 36" Flat-screen satellite TV whereas the Galaxy does not include satellite.

What is the best time of year?
What are you looking for? Do you want to save money? Come in early July or the end of August. The weather is great! Do you like 105 degrees? Come during the middle to end of July or early August. Don't like crowds? Think about our value season. The busiest time on the lake is the 4th of July, which is great for some. Even at its most hectic, Roosevelt is such a huge body of water that you'll still have plenty of elbowroom. Lake Roosevelt offers whatever you are looking for, all you have to do is decide and go for it.