From
$189 / night
Total guests, Nights

Floating Cottage . . .afloat on the St. Johns River in Florida – Home 9045460 Cottage

  • 1 bedroom
  • 4 sleeps
  • 3 nights min stay

Floating Cottage . . .afloat on the St. Johns River in Florida – Home 9045460

  • Cottage
  • 1 bedroom
  • sleeps 4
  • 3 nights min stay

Key Info

  • Beach / lakeside relaxation
  • Nearest beach 24 mi
  • Swimming pool
  • Child Friendly
  • Car advised
  • Air conditioning
  • No pets allowed

Description from owner

Description

Welcome to FLOATING COTTAGE . . . charming and unique houseboat vacation rental on the St. Johns River . Imagine relaxation, gently afloat in a quiet, clean-water designated marina in Sanford, Florida.

Poised to delight, Floating Cottage provides a peaceful environment to relax, replenish and explore. Air conditioning assures respite from the summer heat. Relax on the front porch to enjoy the gentle breeze while watching turtles swim to the porch to beg for a treat (cat kibbles provided!). Replenish in the peaceful comfort of this fully equipped small home that was featured on Tiny House Hunters on HGTV. Explore the scenic river area using the kayaks provided for guests, or by renting a boat at the marina. Drive a few minutes into historic Old Town Sanford for unique restaurants, pubs, galleries and shops lining the cobblestone streets.

This delightful cottage is bathed in natural light and has a view from every window. The living/dining area is graced with solid oak flooring, a cathedral ceiling, and overhead fan The comfortable seating invites guests to open the French doors to the front porch for fresh, clean air and a view of the marina cove and the river. The room is furnished with a sofa bed, TV, side chairs and a versatile dining/work table. The electric heater/fireplace will take off the rare evening or morning chill.

Sit on the front porch where guests can expect turtle visitors. . . one guest counted over 40 turtles in the water welcoming the guest's arrival . . .and be amused as the slow turtles and large catfish appear. We request that you do not feed the turtles as it may attract gators. An occasional manatee can be seen from the porch. Herons and egrets are common sights as guests share the lovely outdoors with feathered friends. Often there is a baby gator quietly sunning on the pilings.

No ordinary boat galley, the fully equipped kitchen meets the needs of the casual to the gourmet chef with a five burner gas 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. Guests who prefer outdoor cooking can utilize the gas grill on the back porch.

Walk up the stairs to the carpeted loft bedroom with queen size bed, walk-in closet and be surprised by the stained glass window. Open the shades and screened windows to enjoy the gentle river breeze. Expect to be lulled to sleep by the gentle movement of the water beneath the cottage.

The cleverly outfitted bath is equipped with a full size shower, flush comfort toilet and storage space for linens and toiletries. It even boasts a small marina view-catching window.

The cottage is approached from the dock through the back porch. Notice the gas barbecue for outdoor cooking. The smart lock assures ease of access to the cottage and to the utility room.

Floating Cottage is designed with comfort and efficiency built into the 550 square feet of living space. The barely perceptible movement of the water beneath relaxes those who experience a stay in the cottage. Guests park in the marina parking lot and access the boat on a secure floating dock.

Floating Cottage is berthed in the 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. There is a pool-side bar associated with the restaurant. Stroll to the deli for breakfast and lunch. 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 marina 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 buildings and 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 Sanford 360 to explore local events and discover what is happening in the Sanford area. The Riverwalk on Lake Monroe, a bit over a mile long, has shady places aplenty to watch lake activity or beautiful sunsets and sunrises.

In addition to the deli and restaurant at the marina, cottage guests will have full access to the marina laundry and pool.

Tax: an additional 12% is added to the daily rate for local and state taxes.

More Less

Families

  • Great for children of all ages
  • No pets allowed

Bed & bathroom

  • Bedroom 1: Queen Bed
    Beds in other rooms: Sofa beds
  • 1 Full bath

Amenities

  • Wireless Internet
  • Air conditioning
  • Shared outdoor pool (heated)
  • Grill
  • Waterfront
  • Boat available
  • Deck
  • Internet access
  • Staffed property
  • Stove
  • Fridge
  • Freezer
  • Microwave
  • Toaster
  • Kettle
  • Dishwasher
  • TV
  • Satellite TV
  • Ceiling Fans
  • Linen provided
  • Towels provided
  • Housekeeping Included

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Access

  • Parking
  • Not suitable for wheelchair users

Getting around

Most guests prefer to rent a car to enable them to fully enjoy the area, get groceries and to sight-see. Arrival options, if not driving, include the Amtrak train station in Sanford, Orlando International Airport in Orlando (about 45 minutes drive), and a small local Sanford Airport for some international and regional carriers.

Interaction with guest

The owner of Floating Cottage lives in Hawaii and is able to enjoy two versions of paradise, about 5000 miles apart. Guests will be welcomed by the couple who designed and built the boat. They and live in Sanford will be able to greet you by phone, by text, or in person. They are available to answer any questions about the boat and the surrounding area. The cottage elder watches over the boat, pumps the holding tanks and responds to guest needs. The owner is always available to guests via email or phone, will respond promptly, and wants to assure that your experience exceeds your expectations.

Policies

Check in time: 16:00, Check out time: 11:00
If you have any questions about check-in or check-out times, please contact the owner/manager.
Payment
This rental can only be paid for online through FlipKey using your credit/debit card or PayPal (never by bank or wire transfer).
Smoking
No smoking at this property

Cancellations

Change of plans? No problem. You could receive a partial or full refund, depending on when you cancel.

Booking confirmed

100% refund within 24 hours after booking (provided the stay is at least 60 days away).

24 hours after booking

50% refund of the amount paid (minus the booking fee*) if cancelled at least 4 weeks before check-in.

4 weeks before

No refund if cancelled less than 4 weeks before check-in.

Check-in date

* The booking fee is stated in the cancellation policy information on the payment page. This fee helps us run our secure platform and enables us to provide 24/7 customer support

House rules

Floating Cottage is a boat so guests may notice the barely perceptible movement of the water beneath, guaranteeing a great sleep. The floating dock leading to the boat also has gentle movement, so we advise that guests arrive with their "sea" legs to assure good balance. Please check with the host for safety information about toddlers and young children, again, because the cottage is on the water. There are stairs to the loft bedroom for individuals with mobility limitations to consider.

More

About the owner

Kim H.

Tourist License
199780SEMINOLECOUNTY

Calendar last updated:
08 May 2024
Years listed:
6
Based in:
United States
Overall rating:

Languages spoken: English

This property is hosted by a private host (consumer) and not a business. Bookings of their property may not be covered by EU or UK consumer protection laws. However, the Tripadvisor Rentals companies will provide you with the same customer service as with any other stay.

These are the details provided by the business owner.

Business Name

Business Address

Business Telephone

Business Email

Other Applicable Information

Map

Map

Map

Reviews

Excellent
7 reviews

Excellent
7
Very Good
0
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0

“Sweet Floating Cottage”

Reviewed 24 Jun 2023

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 communicati… More

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on all reviews.

“PERFECT”

Reviewed 30 Nov 2019

Lovely little house in a great location. We fed turtles and saw an otter right off the deck. Two adults and one child fit perfectly in this space. There is a full sized kitchen and gas grill so ever… More

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on all reviews.

“Perfect spot for a Sanford stay”

Reviewed 18 Aug 2019

Great spot for a couple getaway. Big kitchen if you’re a chef on the vacation stay. We prefer restaurants but the fridge and kitchen are plenty big enough. Short drive to historic town and all t… More

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on all reviews.

Response from the owner I'm thrilled that you enjoyed the sweet yellow cottage and your stay afloat. Yes, renting a boat from the marina (15% discounted to cottage guests) simply adds joy and more opportunity to enjoy the vistas and the critters up close and personal. Thank you for the opportunity to host you!

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not TripAdvisor LLC.

“2 thumbs up for floating cottage”

Reviewed 24 Nov 2018

We booked the floating cottage for some RnR and to disconnect. Indeed it was calming and relaxing for sure. We had 2 nights there and only left the cottage once. It was clean and fresh and had everyth… More

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on all reviews.

Response from the owner Thank you for your stay and for your kind review. I'm thrilled that being afloat in the sweet yellow cottage provided your family the promised relaxation, respite, river charm and comfort. You will be welcomed any time you want another cottage "fix".

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not TripAdvisor LLC.

“Make Plans Today to Stay at the Floating Cottage!”

Reviewed 22 Aug 2018

We stayed three nights and wish it could have been longer. The cottage has everything you need to rest, relax, and enjoy life on the water. If you are looking for a beautiful home, tranquil location, … More

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on all reviews.

Response from the owner Joanna, I'm so pleased that you enjoyed your stay afloat. The sweet yellow cottage and the turtles that greeted you would welcome your return for another dose of respite and relaxation! Thank you for your kind review. Kim

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not TripAdvisor LLC.

“Incredible and Amazingly Unique!”

Reviewed 7 May 2018

The entire booking experience from start to finish was absolutely SUPERB!! Kim was very engaged and amiable from our first interaction. Her customer service is far beyond anything I've experienc… More

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on all reviews.

Response from the owner Karolina, Thank you for your stay at the Floating Cottage and for your kind review. Our goal is to meet or exceed guest expectations for those wanting to experience being in the sweet yellow cottage-boat afloat on the St. Johns River. And yes, the turtles are the official welcoming party and a big hit with all of our guests . . .we're glad they delighted you. Enjoy your travels and please visit us again! Kim

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not TripAdvisor LLC.

“OMG-WOW-amazing, adorable, perfect!”

Reviewed 10 Apr 2018

I took my daughter and 6 & 3 year old grandsons here. From the moment we saw the little Cottage - to the moment we had to check out - this Little Floating Cottage kept us in a little magical haze.… More

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on all reviews.

Response from the owner Alisa, I'm thrilled that your visit to the floating cottage delighted you and your family. The turtles, our unofficial greeting party, enchant guests who want to experience being afloat on the St. Johns River in this sweet yellow boat. Thank you for the kind words and for your stay. Kim

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not TripAdvisor LLC.

Review 1-7 of 7

FAQs

How do I find more info about the property?

You can get in touch with Kim (the owner) through the contact form on this page.

If you’ve already booked, go to Manage your booking to send the owner a message.

What if I have questions before I book?

Send Kim (the owner) an email through the contact form on this page. Alternatively, if there’s a phone number on this page, you can call them.

How do I contact Kim (the owner)?

Send an email through the contact form on this page. Or if there’s a phone number on this page, you can call them.

If you’ve already booked, go to Manage your booking to view Kim the owner's contact details or send them a message.

What's the difference between 'Book your stay' and 'Contact the owner/manager'?

Use the Ready to book? form to pay provisionally online and send Kim (the owner) a booking request. You’ll find out within 24 hours whether they’ve accepted - no money will leave your account before then

Or send Kim (the owner) an inquiry through the Contact the owner/manager form if you’d like a quote or more info first.

What is a booking request?

When you pay online through the Ready to book? form, a booking request is sent to Kim (the owner). You’ll find out within 24 hours whether they’ve accepted - no money will leave your account before then.

Only bookings paid for through our site are covered by our trusted Payment Protection.

How do I know my booking is safe?

To book this property you need to pay through the Flipkey website. Only bookings paid for through our site are covered by our trusted Payment Protection. This means that in the unlikely event that you’re prevented or denied access to the property when you check in, we’ll offer a full refund for the stay.

Find out more about booking safely.

How do I know what it will cost for my stay?

Simply enter your dates in the Ready to book? form to calculate the cost of your stay.
Click Book now to see a full breakdown of the price.

You can also request a quote from Kim (the owner) through the contact form. The owner will email you the total cost for your dates and a link to book and pay online.

How do I know if my booking request has been accepted?

You’ll receive an email within 24 hours to let you know. Or you can check in Manage your booking. No money will leave your account unless it’s accepted.

How do I pay for my vacation?

Use the Ready to book? form to pay provisionally online. You can pay by credit/debit card or PayPal. Kim (the owner) will have 24 hours to accept the booking and no money will leave your account before then.

If you’ve been sent a quote, simply accept it and pay online through the email we sent you. You can also do this in Manage your booking.

Only bookings paid for through our site are covered by our trusted Payment Protection.

Why can't I call Kim (the owner) before booking?

You can exchange contact details with the property owner/manager once your booking is confirmed and you’ve paid in full. Paying and communicating only through our platform allows us to ensure that your booking is covered by our Payment Protection policy.

If you have any questions before booking, you can send the property owner/manager a message via the contact form on their listing. Once you’ve booked, you can discuss the rental and make arrangements for your trip by logging into Manage your booking.

How do damage deposits work?

In most cases, you don’t pay a damage deposit up front. Instead, we save your payment details securely and you’re only charged in the event of damage to the property.

Occasionally, you will pay a damage deposit up front as part of the total rental cost. In this case, the owner has 10 days after you check out to report any damage. If they don’t, we’ll return your deposit. If their claim is successful, we’ll deduct the agreed cost and return the remainder.

How can I view and manage my booking?

Go to Manage your booking to view all your booking details, pay the balance of your booking or cancel it if you need to.

How do I pay the balance of my booking?

You can pay the remaining balance of your booking at any point. Simply go to Manage your booking and click Pay now.

We’ll automatically charge the balance payment to the same payment method 10 days before it’s due. Go to Manage your booking to see when the payment will be taken.

How can I withdraw my booking request?

You’ll need to contact Kim (the owner) to do this. Send them a message in Manage your booking or through the contact form on this page.

How do I cancel my booking?

Go to Manage your booking to cancel your booking. Here you can view your cancellation policy to see if you’ll be refunded.

How do I make changes to my booking?

You can request to change the dates or number of people on your booking via the Manage your booking page. To change your dates use the Edit booking button. If you need to change the number of guests staying then send Kim (the owner) a message.

If Kim (the owner) agrees, they’ll send you a revised quote outlining the changes. You can review and accept/decline this from the Manage your booking page. You’ll have 48 hours to take action before the revised quote expires.

View all FAQs

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