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Reviews of A Warm and Cozy 50' Houseboat in gated, quaint and peaceful marina near the city

A Warm and Cozy 50' Houseboat in gated, quaint and peaceful marina near the city
Richmond, VA

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 154 out of 191 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 29 out of 191 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 4 out of 191 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 191 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 3 out of 191 reviews" "

9.2/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

8.8/10

Amenities

9.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

Ken J.

Liked: Cleanliness
Everything we needed
We had an enjoyable stay on the houseboat. The bed was comfortable, and the accommodations had everything we needed. We even made spaghetti the first night for dinner since we arrived later than planned. The area is private, we only saw a few people and those we did see gave a friendly hello if they didn't stop to chat with us. For anyone wondering about the movement of the boat, it is very stable. The boat is docked in a channel off the main river so not a lot of boat traffic and the currents don't really cause any movement of the boat. We had a couple windy nights and the boat barely moved, only a few light bumps on the dock or an occasion rock. Once asleep, you wouldn't know if you were on a boat or hotel room. Plenty to do in the area, we spent 1/2 a day Richmond National Battlefield and another 1/2 day in Richmond. Captain Ron was a wonderful host. We recommend a stay if you are looking for a unique experience.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jason S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful Escape on the Water
The Gia Maria was everything I was looking for and more. Perfectly serene houseboat on the water. Great views, great space for anyone looking for a taste of the nautical life. I stayed there by myself but it would be perfectly acceptable for a couple and kids. I will most certainly be back. Thank you, Captain Ron, for sharing this idyllic space with us.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 27, 2024
Ir you are confused then you are not alone! I did not meet My guest because i was having a medical procedure. So I am not sure why the coment about staying alone yet finished his great review with "us". His remarks about the boat and location are true, just don't get the "i" and "us" confusion. All I know is he was an excellent guest and he is welcome to reserve here again anytime

10/10 Excellent

Shirley B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing House Boat
Captain Ron was on sight when I arrived and showed me around. House boat had everything I needed and there were parks close by to walk my dog. The bed was a dream to sleep on. The boat has a lot of character which was delightful. If you need a lot of space this isn’t the place for you. I loved it!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Feb 15, 2024
I am sure that a 50' houseboat does seem small after spending 25 years in the navy. But as for yachts, a 12'x16' living area is a big room!! And on top of that, a sleeping quarters with a queen Sleep Innovations memory foam mattress with closet and nightstand is also quite large. Then consider the bathroom has a full size vanity, a 4' ceramic shower and a full sized toilet. The only thing small considering a vessel this size would be the galley. Yet it has every convience: 7.5 cf fridge, induction range, micro/ convection oven double stainless sink, toaster, coffee maker and assorted needed things to prepare and serve a nice meal. Outside: a covered bow deck. But up top is to dream for. It is partially covered yet enough room to grab some rays. And for those who just want to sit and enjoy the river and wildlife it is wonderful. And not only that, but the GiaMaria sits on the end of the dock which causes it to be PRIVATE as opposed to being sandwiched between other vessels. So come and enjoy this unique opportunity on a unique boat which is located in an equally unique marina, far from a crazy world, yet near more adventures than you could possibly do even during any one season of the year.

10/10 Excellent

E K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Cozy Houseboat
We stayed in the GiaMaria for the weekend and it was lovely. Very cozy and rustic. Capt Ron was wonderful to deal with and gave us great recommendations of things to do in the area. We can't wait to rent one of his other houseboats.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Hank W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Bohemian Skipper 10/22
Amazing and unique place to stay. Captain Ron was a ideal host and was kind enough to give me a ride to downtown when I was running behind. Definitely will be back sooner than later.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Doris B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Captain Ron
Amazing experience!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Todd B., Verona, VA

Liked: Cleanliness
Our Stay
Very nice time. We'll be back next year!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2023

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness
Unique Experience
Captain Ron is a gracious and gregarious host. Staying on his houseboat in a quiet marina on the James River was a unique experience. On the upper deck we enjoyed eating breakfast, watching the birds, and toasting the sunsets with a glass of wine. It’s a short drive to the Lily Pad restaurant where we had delicious dinners and great service. The only downside was not having Internet or TV cable service during our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 25, 2023
I don't know why they would not have internet. I have had internet continuously for more than 8 years. I thought I had explained that the tv cable was recently cut during some renovation on the upper deck Wonder guests. I hope they will return.

10/10 Excellent

Rachael W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Place of serenity
Had an amazing weekend filled with serenity laughter and alot of peace.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Erica K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great place to stay!
We enjoyed the time we were able to be on the boat. We had fun on our stay for our anniversary! It was a unique experience and Ron was a great host.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mike

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The property was quiet and a great place to relax
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Something Different
Stayed there while my son played in a baseball tournament. We’ve been traveling all summer and wanted a different experience. We had a good time and took advantage of fishing during our downtime. Host was extremely kind and attentive.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michael R.

Liked: Cleanliness
amazing
Thank you to Ron for his hospitality and help. I not only read his book, but I've ordered even more copies to share with family and friends.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tracy J.

Liked: Cleanliness
Anniversary stay
We had fun on our overnight stay for our anniversary! It was a unique experience and Ron was a great host. He even has a book he wrote that I enjoyed reading while staying there.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great stay.
Loved the boat. The town of Henrico is wonderful. The children and I enjoy our stay very much.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Cozy and Relaxing
My husband and our dog joined me on this trip! We had a wonderful experience. We stayed 4 nights and was able to cook and have dinner on the boat a couple of nights, it was lovely! The bed was very comfortable and shower was plenty big enough. Captain Ron was the perfect host! We will be back for sure!!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kenny D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Cozy Houseboat
It was a very relaxing stay! The area is beautiful with plenty of areas to explore nearby! Captain Ron is an absolute pleasure to talk to! And has plenty of local knowledge to share. Bonus.. I caught a lot of fish off the back of the boat! One last thing he gave me a signed copy of the BOHEMIAN SKIPPER which he wrote! Top noch guy :)
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

8/10 Good

Rae S.

Captain Ron’s houseboat
It was a new experience and got me inspired to look for a houseboat to buy. We enjoyed cooking, playing Yahtzee , studying and fishing from the deck. My friend caught a catfish & released it.It was a nice time & we really enjoyed meeting Captain Ron. He’s great!
Stayed 1 night in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Heather K.

Liked: Cleanliness
The Gia Maria is a well loved boat.
If you decide to stay on the Gia Maria, be prepared to detox from sound pollution and the stress of the everyday. The marina is private and secure, and life moves at a more natural pace once you get down to the dock. The boat herself is not new or fancy, but she is full of personality, comfort, and charm I had a wonderful time spending full days on the upper deck watching the birds and the turtles and feeling the tension just drifting away with the breezes. Ron is a very attentive host with a huge, kind heart and collection of great stories to share. I can’t say enough about what a wonderful time I had staying here!
Stayed 12 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Justin H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Super
This boathouse is super cute and in a beautiful location. The check in process was simple and fast. I highly recommend this property for it’s relaxation and beautiful scenery
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dale B., Columbus, Ohio

Liked: Cleanliness
Wished we would have just stayed at the boat more
Really enjoyed the short time we were able to be on the boat. Sunset was great one day the rained the next. Got caught in the heavy traffic around Newport coming and going, so spent too many hours on the road. My teenage grandson and I both wished we would have just stayed at the boat. Enjoyed reading Captain’s book! This was a “bucket list” thing for me. Have never stayed on a boat . Would do it again!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

8/10 Good

Keir S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Unique, peaceful
What a great change of pace. Very memorable experience for our family. Everything we needed was right on board. What a huge shower for a boat! The main bed was luxurious. The pull-out couch was very comfortable as a couch but not so comfortable as a bed (needs a mattress upgrade?).
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 5, 2023
Thanks, we will check out the mattress. Have not had a complaint until now.

10/10 Excellent

kelly w., Rehoboth Beach DE

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect, Unique Getaway!!
Wow what a great experience! The houseboat was very unique with so much character. We loved living the houseboat life for 4 nights. The location was quiet and beautiful nestled away along the James river. So much wildlife out your window, eagles, osprey, otters, fish jumping along with numerous other birds. Beautiful sunrises and sunsets! The boat has a front deck and back deck with large upper deck. Both decks had seating to enjoy your favorite beverage while taking in the sights & sounds of nature along the river. Capt. Ron, Maria and Curt were extremely accommodating, showing us the ropes of houseboating. Their communication was excellent, we couldn't have asked for better hosts! Capt. Ron was so interesting to talk with, his knowledge and background is amazing! Inside the boat was very clean, so comfy & cozy. It had everything we needed, like Wifi, TV, small kitchen and complete head (bathroom). For cooler nights Capt. Ron has heat & for summer he has AC! We didn't need either for our Spring stay. The unique stay and river nature surroundings alone made for a perfect trip! We will be back! Kelly & Julia
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Deborah M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fun place and beautiful setting
We had a great time. Captain Ron met us at the boat and answered every question. Living on a boat on the water was fun. We ate dinner on the top deck each night, watching cranes, other wildlife and really lovely moon rises and sunsets. My husband is 6'8" tall and managed very well in the cabin. Thank you for such a different and enjoyable experience.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lori B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great relaxing few days in a unique setting.
Thanks Ron for your hospitality.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ian B.

Wonderful and out-of-the-ordinary
The mornings and evenings in the river were the high spots of our stay; the boat is in a wonderful spot and well located for touring by car as well as for watching the wildlife along the river. Being able to have breakfast and dinner up on deck was magical, and the marina is very peaceful yet there were enough other people around that it didn’t feel isolated or unsafe. Of course staying on a boat is more cramped than a hotel room, but that adds to the experience and the charm , and the boat is very well equipped with a decently sized shower, excellent bed, air conditioning units, oven/microwave, two induction hobs, and fridge/feeezer. There are also toilets and a free-to-use washing machine and dryer in the Marina office building. All the things that mattered most (bathroom, kitchen and equipment, bedding) were clean on arrival, but perhaps one improvement opportunity is that the accommodation could benefit from a more thorough vacuuming. Captain Ron was super-friendly and helpful, and I could easily have stayed there for a whole week. Indeed I hope one day to return.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 26, 2022
It was a joy to have Ian aboard. He sailed here from England aboard the Queen Mary, so I guess the GiaMaria did seem small to him. But the GiaMaria has a 4' wide shower, did that really feel small? Wonder how big it is on the Queen Mary? I will look into the vacuum thing. A new vacuum cleaner was just bought and placed on the boat!

10/10 Excellent

Rhonda

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Brian B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great property
Thank you so much. Very nice owner. Wonderful experience.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Amy T., Crofton

Liked: Cleanliness
Girls Trip
We had a nice quiet stay...me, my adult daughter, and my sister. We very much enjoyed our evenings on the deck, watching the stars, drinking wine, and laughing. If shiny and new matters to you more than ambience, this might not be the vacation for you. The boat is older, but feels well loved. Sleeping on a houseboat feels very special (and the mattress on the bed is the most comfortable I have ever slept on)
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Jun 30, 2022
Amy really got it. The GiaMaria is not a shinny penny. It is far more! It is an experience that can take you back to a much less hurried time when feeling safe and relaxed were far more valuable than Showtime.

10/10 Excellent

Lorraine S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing Weekend Retreat
I booked this houseboat as a unique experience for my fiancé as a Father’s Day weekend retreat. From the moment we arrived on the boat and were greeted by Captain Ron to the time we departed, we had the most amazing and relaxing time. We watched the sunrise in the morning and the sunset in the evening. The boat itself is a nice size so it didn’t feel cramped. The inside was charming and came equipped with kitchen essentials where we were able to brew and enjoy fresh coffee in the morning and there’s an electric cooktop and microwave. It is centrally located close to a Food Lion, Dollar General and other convenience stores. When we weren’t enjoying just relaxing on the boat, we did venture out during the day to a beautiful park also close by perfect for walking, riding bikes and there is a farmer’s market on Saturdays. In the evenings, we enjoyed the soft waves and listening to music. The mattress is large and very comfortable and provided the best sleep. There is also a tv in the living area and a hot spot for wi-fi available. Ron and his wife Ruth have beautiful souls and we truly feel blessed to have met them and will definitely be looking forward to booking our next retreat really soon!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

8/10 Good

Heidi C.

Fun little adventure
Our reservation was changed last minute but we enjoyed the other boat. Our children loved the experience and we really enjoyed meeting Ron and hearing some of his stories. We are glad we booked it.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Jun 27, 2022
I guess Heidi forgot to say that I allowed her to have the other boat last minute because she had two children and the boat I changed for them has two bedrooms instead of a couch. To sleep on. Nor was she charged for the two bedrooms or the signed copy of my book Bohemial Skipper that I gave to her son as a birthday present. Maybe I should have taken that family of four out to dinner as well!!

10/10 Excellent

Scott T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome boat, awesome host!!
We had a great time during our stay. The boat is great. Very comfortable. The marina is quiet and has free washer/dryer and ice machine, which were hugely helpful. Capt Ron is a great host! Very responsive and full of great stories....read his book that he leaves on board! We are coming back again in September!
Stayed 11 nights in May 2022

6/10 Okay

Susan D., Santa Fe

Disliked: Cleanliness
Loved the area!
The location is absolutely delightful! Safe and secure behind a locked gate. Located right in beautifully preserved and maintained Civil War Historic Sites. Walk right off the boat and feel like you've stepped right into the era. Just a 20 minute drive in to Richmond. The boat is a fun experience and Captain Ron a sweetie, but the boat, a little like me, is starting to show its age, wear and tear and could really use some repairs and a good thorough cleaning.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Jun 1, 2022
I am happy that Susan enjoyed her stay. Like all older boats it is on a constant state of repairs. We just finished redoing and refurbishing the upper deck with new furniture and a new gazebo to share about half of the area. Will look into the "cleaning" aspect. Probably outdoor stuff left over from winter and repairs.

10/10 Excellent

Jena C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Magical Birthday
Jack and I had a wonderful stay. It was exactly as advertised and Captain Ron was a generous host. We enjoyed our stay and would recommend Captain Ron’s Gia Maria.
Stayed 1 night in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

William B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing stay
Fishing off the back of the boat was fun and relaxing. The sleeping was easy with a gentle rocking motion the weekend was so relaxing we hated to leave
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Laura T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Houseboat getaway
Very nice relaxing time close to Richmond sites.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Johnny I.

Liked: Cleanliness
Boathouse escape
Lovely and quiet. Cozy well stocked boathouse with all amenities. Clean and responsive Owner.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2022

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Quiet, peaceful stay
We like clean and comfortable, if a rental has these two things, we are content. We were satisfied with the comfortable chairs and bed. Would have liked a bit cleaner in the kitchen area and the pet hairs on the couch. The upstairs deck with cool breezes was a spot we hung out on a lot! Yes there are tides that affect how easy it is to board or depart, but we are 70 years old and active and managed ok. Experiencing life on a houseboat, even for a few days, was a bucket list we wouldn’t have missed. Captain Ron was a wonderful host.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness
Peace and Beauty
Beautiful low key spot on the James. After working over a month straight without a day off much needed rest and downtime. The GiaMaria was super quaint and the perfect place to rest and recharge. Thanks Captain Ron for being such a lovely host and for accommodating our stay!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Theodore G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great experience
Ron was great and the boat was interesting..tugboat man, as I am. Ordered his book Bohemian Skipper..looks like a good read. Thanks Ron 😊
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Helene S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Location for fishing is perfect!
The property lies between 2 boat launching marina's and is located in an old part of the James. Ron was great. Several suggestions on places to eat/fish!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Beth H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfectly peaceful
The night sky was beautiful and the marina was very quiet and Ron is a gem!
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Bonnie Sue F.

Liked: Cleanliness
BLISSFUL
I just can't say enough!! The boat, the Capt., the area, EVERYTHING was amazing!! So very peaceful and beautiful! Conversation with Capt.Ron was wonderful!
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mindy R., Richmond

Liked: Cleanliness
Romantic get away
Warm and cozy
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Joni B., Onancock, Virginia USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect location for rest & relaxation.
Taken at it's whole this property represents a unique experience. If you like a rustic nautical feel & being surrounded by History & nature this is the place for you.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021

8/10 Good

Gayle B., Columbia MD

On the James with Cap’n Ron
The houseboat is on a lovely part of the James River. The people at the marina are nice and Captain Ron is charming and very responsive. The interior of the boat is small so don’t bring a whole lot with you. Supplies/kitchenware exist, but you might want to bring some of your favorite things with you just in case. Counter space is limited. With the rain and tides going in and out, access to the boat was tricky as the walkway to the boat could go underwater at night and the height of the boat from the walkway changed throughout the day.. And remember the rule to always have 3 points of contact while walking on the deck as it can be slippery. Cap’n Ron recommended a local restaurant, the LIly Pad, and we were sad that we couldn’t make it there. Looked great. Great area to walk around if interested in historic areas.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 24, 2021
Unfortunately Gayle was here during a time when a storm was out at sea and blowing the tide much higher than usual. This might happen once in 2 or 3 years. And even then it is only for a couple of hours during each 24 hour period of time. As for the dock, except in rare ocassions or when it rains, it is ALWAYS dry. To say the boat is small inside is truly a subjective opinion. I personally think it is quite large. Do example, you will find a 12x14' living room, a private bathroom with a full sized vanity, a home sized toilet and a 4' shower. The bedroom has a California sized queen bed and a seven foot window with a great river view, a closet and night table with a reading lamp. The galley is small but still supports the necessary amenities so you can cook a full meal. And I hope Gale took the time to enjoy the spacious 12x16' and half shaded upper deck, the panoramic views of the river and the island and other such attributes that have been enjoyed by so many guest before her visit. However, I will be the first to admit that the GiaMaria is not the fancy Jefferson...but neither is the Jefferson the private park like experience you will find on my unique vessels. So, if want to enjoy a nice getaway and you are not expecting chandeliers or the Taj Mahal, then plan a trip that only can be experienced in this peaceful and friendly marina. Thank you for reading my opinion. Ron

10/10 Excellent

Pamela C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Complete relaxation
Just had another wonderful stay on one of Capt. Ron's boats. He is as charming as his old boats are. There is something just magical about watching the sunset over the river and just being able to unwind. This place is the perfect vacation spot because you can have peace and quiet and enjoy wildlife (and the occasional neighborhood cat), yet be in the middle of Richmond quickly. We will be returning again and again.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Glenn M.

Liked: Cleanliness
excellent
great getaway
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Abby C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Felt like home
Captain Ron had us comfortable in minutes we felt like home definitively will be returning he treated us like family
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021

6/10 Okay

Matthew O.

Ron is a great guy. Very responsive
Interesting stay
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2021