See all properties
Entire house boat

Historic Charming Boat in Downtown Harbor

Gig Harbor accommodations with patio

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Historic Charming Boat in Downtown Harbor

Marina
Exterior
Interior
Property grounds
Marina

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire house boat

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Pet friendly
  • Outdoor Space
  • Fireplace

Explore the area

View in a map
Gig Harbor, WA
  • Place, Skansie Brothers Park
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Grandview Forest Park
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Place, Harbor History Museum
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Airport, Seattle, WA (SEA-Seattle - Tacoma Intl.)
    ‪39 min drive‬

Room options

You may also like

Ad
Exterior

Holiday Inn Tacoma Mall by IHG

South End
  • Pool
  • Hot tub
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
4.3 out of 5, Excellent, 1,006 reviews
$103 nightly
The price is $119
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Total with taxes and fees
Holiday Inn Tacoma Mall by IHG

About the neighborhood

Gig Harbor

In Gig Harbor .Within a 15-minute walk of the houseboat, you'll find Skansie Brothers Park and Grandview Forest Park. Harbor History Museum and Cushman Trail are also within 3 miles (5 km).
View more Houseboats in TacomaOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Skansie Brothers Park - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Grandview Forest Park - 8 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Harbor History Museum - 2 min drive - 1.2 miles
  • Tacoma Dome - 15 min drive - 14.4 miles
  • Seattle Waterfront - 57 min drive - 56.3 miles

Getting around

  • Union Station - 18 min drive
  • Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) - 47 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪William Patrick's Coffee - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Carl's Jr. - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪7 Seas Brewing - ‬3 min walk

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.

Historic Charming Boat in Downtown Harbor

Floating cozy and charming "Shamrockin" is located in the heart of Gig Harbor where all of the historic sites and restaurants are within a short walking distance. Rare boat at a rare historic net shed and dock. Use the provided kayaks to paddle around lovely Gig Harbor--or paddle to the Tides Tavern or Anthony's seafood for lunch! Complete with two staterooms, a cozy fireplace, and a view of sunsets and Mount Rainier! Sit on the upper deck for coffee/cocktails, bbq on the dock, watch activity.
The space
Gig Harbor is known as the maritime city. Our net shed was built by a famous historic fisherman, Spiro Babich. The dock allows you to watch the boats, paddle boarders, gondolas, kayakers and working fishing boats go by! Shamrockin' is small,-know that it's a boat that rocks when folks move around, the shower is a hand held sprayer situation, and you must be nimble to move about. What you get in return is a teak and holly charming fully equipped getaway literally on the water and we think you'll love it. Two kayaks ready for your use!
Guest access
The net shed and other boats are not part of the rental.
Other things to note
Occasionally there will be events/celebrations in the net shed. It’s too cool of a venue to not have parties in. 😎 Please feel free to walk through to access your boat. Know that we will comply with quiet hours at 10pm too.

Similar properties

House (3 Bedrooms) | Interior
Gig Harbor House w/ Private Beach + Views!
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Parking included
5.0 out of 5, Exceptional, 1 review
Gig Harbor House w/ Private Beach + Views!

Property amenities

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Shower

Living spaces

  • Fireplace

Outdoor areas

  • Patio

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 2 pets total (up to 50 lbs per pet)

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed

Things to do

  • Kayak

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Maximum 2 (weight limit: 50 lbs per pet)
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
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
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.

Frequently asked questions

How close is Historic Charming Boat in Downtown Harbor to the airport?

This houseboat is 35.7 mi (47-min drive) away from the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does Historic Charming Boat in Downtown Harbor have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this houseboat.

How close is Historic Charming Boat in Downtown Harbor to the beach?

This houseboat is 7.1 mi (20-min drive) from Fox Island Sand Spit and 10.7 mi (32-min drive) from Owen Beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does Historic Charming Boat in Downtown Harbor offer free breakfast?

This houseboat does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Historic Charming Boat in Downtown Harbor ?

No, there is no casino at this houseboat, but Emerald Queen Casino (16-min drive) and BJ's Bingo (19-min drive) are nearby.

What time is check-in at Historic Charming Boat in Downtown Harbor ?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Historic Charming Boat in Downtown Harbor ?

Free parking is not available at this houseboat.

Does Historic Charming Boat in Downtown Harbor have a pool?

This houseboat does not have a pool.

Does Historic Charming Boat in Downtown Harbor have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this houseboat.

How close is Historic Charming Boat in Downtown Harbor to downtown Gig Harbor?

This houseboat is 0.1 mi away from Gig Harbor.

Historic Charming Boat in Downtown Harbor Reviews

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 30 out of 35 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 35 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 35 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 35 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 35 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jan M.

Liked: Cleanliness
The host was welcoming and the amenities were great.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

2/10 Terrible

Eileen & Conrad E.

Disliked: Cleanliness
The smell of diesel, septic and mold made the unit uninhabitable. We were forced to get a hotel room for the three nights.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

2/10 Terrible

Eileen & Conrad E.

Disliked: Cleanliness
The strong smell of diesel, septic and mold made the unit uninhabitable. We ended up getting a hotel room.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Louis P.

Liked: Cleanliness
All good and a fun evening. Sleeping was a bit tight but expected. Otherwise all great!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Marlejo S.

Liked: Cleanliness
We enjoyed this unique property. I have wanted to stay on a boat for a few years and this stay was a great way to do that. Thank you.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Leanna B., Sarasota, FL

Liked: Cleanliness
We really enjoyed this unusual property as we have never stayed on a boat before. The area is perfect and very walkable to the town center, and right next to the Tides Tavern, an historical and very local restaurant / bar. We are fairly fit but we did have a bit of a challenge navigating the relatively small spaces inside the boat. We would not recommend it for mobility challenged folks nor those who may be a bit oversized. But it was really fun to be onboard.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael S.

Liked: Cleanliness
The boat was very inviting, clean and equipped with a nice coffee press, plush towels and plenty of dishware for a relaxing stay.The boat presented very well and had comfortable beds and linens for a sound and rejuvenating sleep.The location was ideal with parking onsite and plenty of shops, restaurants and breweries nearby within walking distance.I look forward to return visits in the near future, this as the Shamrockin is a special place.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Renee W.

Liked: Cleanliness
I don’t even know where to begin with the compliments! The check-in was easy, the boat was clean & comfortable. It was a truly unique and special experience, and we had such a nice time. Walking distance to great restaurants & shopping and tremendous views on a clear day. Thank you for an awesome stay!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

January V.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great little boat

My sister and I had a wonderful stay. It was a great location and we loved watching a couple seals frolic right next to the boat every evening. Know that it is a bit small and a bit cramped but with that said it was very clean and tidy, well equipped and the beds were very comfortable
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa F.

Liked: Cleanliness

Cozy fun getaway

Great location, cute boat accommodations, comfy bed and linens. The only comment I would make is the headroom of the Shamrockin is low, I’m 5’-2” and it was perfect for me, someone a little taller might want to look at another boat option.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tonijo G.

Liked: Cleanliness
This was the most amazing experience. The boat is small but oh so cute and clean. The snacks and wine were a nice touch. I wished I had less running around to do and more time to spend on the boat. Do not let the small rooms scare you; they were very comfortable to sleep 2. I will be back!!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Wyatt E.

Liked: Cleanliness

Honeymoon Getaway

My wife and I enjoyed the beautiful boat and views of the harbor. Everything was surprisingly comfortable and clean for a boat. Would visit again!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Laurie L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Repeat Stay!

I love this quaint little boat. The hosts are very responsive. The location is amazing. They provide snacks and I was SO relieved to find coffee this morning. Walking distance to quaint shops, restaurants and brew pubs. Kayaks are provided and I felt safe.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brendan K.

Liked: Cleanliness

Cozy comfortable retreat

A very relaxing and unique retreat. The boat isn't big--important to be flexible and to enjoy close quarters with your traveling companions! but remarkably comfortable. The kayaks made for an enjoyable morning out on the sound.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Laurie L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect home base for our activities.

Fun and funky. We were here for a 3 day event in Tacoma and it was so relaxing to come back to the boat and enjoy the sunset instead of being in a hotel.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nick T., Fresno, CA

Liked: Cleanliness

Charming, fun experience

Michelle communicated thoroughly and promptly. The listing was clean, well equipped and as described. Fun experience. Would stay again.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Linda W.

Liked: Cleanliness

Excellent Little Getaway

My friend and I had a wonderful time on Lil Shamrockin! It was a perfect place to get away for the weekend. Very cute and cozy,! :)
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Steve S., Seattle, WA

Liked: Cleanliness

Lovely small boat experience in wonderful location

It’s a charming location and great job by hosts to make it cozy and welcoming. Guests should know that the sleeping quarters are tight - not recommended for large people (my wife slept in the stern cabin and I slept in the bow cabin). The shower is not really a shower as I understand them. Otherwise, a remarkable place that I’d love to visit again!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jason I.

Liked: Cleanliness

A great little getaway.

The boat is quite cozy but has a very comfy bed. It was just what we needed. The host was available and helpful. Would stay here again.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tamara P.

Liked: Cleanliness

If staying on a boat is on your bucket list, here’s your opportunity

Solo traveler stayed 7 days on the 2 bedroom boat. Great for peace and quiet and disconnecting for a little while. Has WiFi and streaming services available. But the best part is falling asleep listening to the rain on the roof. Would certainly book again. Close access to plenty of places within walking distance.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

David W.

Liked: Cleanliness

Boat time

Great boat to stay on, nice and cozy. Very quiet and a great location. Michelle was quick to respond with our questions (only had a couple) and the boat was extremely clean. Definitely going back again!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

6/10 Okay

Deanna K.

Liked: Cleanliness

Boats in Winter

I was confused about where to find the feed for communicating with the host. I didn't understand the check in process completely. The boat was charming and well stocked with most everything we needed for our two-night stay; however, the salt and pepper shakers were lacking batteries, and we never did find the shower nozzle in the bathroom. It was fun, but colder than expected. Check-in time was a bit late for my liking. The beds were very comfortable, and the bed pillows were great.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nicole

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location!
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Terrence H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 8 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ken L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Cozy, Calm, Quiet and Restorative

I crave the water but live in the desert. Renting the Shamrockin for a water experience was an excellent decision. The location is 10/10! Shops and restaurants are just steps away from the private dock and yet the location remains calm, quiet and restorative. You can walk everywhere with ease. The boat is charming and cozy with a lot of personality. The bedding is comfortable and all rooms have a small but efficient electric heater. October can be wet and cold in Gig Harbor. There was rain, sunshine, falling leaves and witches on the water. We timed our visit with a FISH Food Bank fundraiser called the Witches Brew. Participants dressed up as their favorite witch or warlock while paddling kayaks and stand-up paddle boards from one end of the harbor to the sandspit. You never know what you’ll see on the water. Other wonderful sights included beautiful sunrises, lots of herons and an occasional seal. Our time on the Shamrockin was enchanting. The owners, Brad and Michelle are hard working entrepreneurs that treat this rental opportunity like a profession not a hobby. The only hiccup we had was a hot water tank malfunction. The owners were very responsive and resourceful. They moved us to another boat so we could remain comfortable while repairs were being made. Our stay in Gig Harbor was medicine for my parched New Mexico spirit. We can’t wait to come back and stay here again. What a great experience! Kristen and Ken Lord
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2024