Houseboating on the Clarence River


Feeling the need to head to warmer climes for a holiday, or even a mini-break? It’s hard to beat the Northern Rivers for beauty and charm! And just inland from the coast is the stunning Clarence Valley, where the mighty Clarence River flows.

The largest river on the eastern seaboard, the Clarence River is ideal for houseboating. Grafton2Yamba Houseboats — based out of Brushgrove — offer a range of premium boats for hire, with a variety of berth options and price points. Best of all, no boating licence is required to hire one. Aside from cruising the many riverways and its islands, fishing rods and kayaks are provided on board, so you can really enjoy this beautiful body of water.

The Clarence is also known for having some of the best seafood in the world, with none more mouth-watering than their famous prawns. Fresh and battered seafood platters can be pre-arranged through the Clarence Valley Fisherman’s Co-Op for you to enjoy on board.

One of the best little towns to visit on the Clarence is Maclean, which is known as Australia’s ‘little Scottish town’. Maclean is home to many artists, including Malcolm King of Kingstudio. Visitors can wander the art gallery, which features works for sale by Malcolm and his fellow artist wife, Julie. For those keen to unleash their own inner artist, Malcolm also runs a series of workshops on site, including lino printmaking. Workshop participants will learn new skills and take home their own little memento of a perfect holiday.