On A Tank Of Gas: April

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Off-Season Getaway

Houseboats, Stem to Stem

By Janis Dice
Whether exploring the web of waterways in the Delta or cruising the coves of a sprawling mountain reservoir, vacationing in a houseboat is a unique adventure, and Sacramento’s central location makes it convenient, as well. And houseboating during the off-season — generally mid-September to mid-May — means avoiding summer crowds while enjoying bargain rates.
    Today’s top-of-the-line houseboats are akin to luxury suites, with hardwood cabinetry, full-size appliances, holographic fireplaces, multimedia centers, surround sound, indoor and outdoor kitchens and roof-top hot tubs. Stocked with blenders, toasters, wine glasses and corkscrews, these floating lodges are commodious accommodations.
    “They are like five-star hotels on the water,” says Gary Eastland, public relations coordinator for Houseboats.com, which handles reservations for marinas from Lake Shasta to the southern foothills.
    Eastland says the biggest surprise to novices is the ease of driving the state-of-the-art houseboats. With piloting gear on both the lower and upper levels, the captain can stay warm and cozy in the salon or feel the breeze while steering from the fly bridge.
    Each marina has special characteristics. At Lake McClure, near Coulterville, the water is deep, and the mountains encircling the reservoir are steep. Fed by the Merced River, this lake’s proximity to Yosemite allows for day tripping to the falls, trails and spectacular scenery of this gem in the National Park system.
    The New Melones Reservoir, near Angels Camp, is cupped by rolling hills studded with oaks. Holding back the Stanislaus River, it’s close to Saddle Creek and Greenhorn Creek golf courses, wineries and Gold Rush-era communities’ shops, restaurants, theaters and galleries.
Continued...

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