Houseboat/ˈhaʊsbəʊt/ Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Living Space A houseboat is designed as a residence, not just for travel. The family lived on a houseboat, complete with bedrooms and a kitchen. Pro Tip 2/3Vacation Usage Houseboats are popular as a vacation rental for a leisurely trip. They booked a houseboat for a relaxing tour of the lakeside. Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Variations Houseboats may vary in style and luxury across different cultures and locations. In Kashmir, houseboats are intricately carved and often stationary.