Thoughtfully built, managed with pride, and shared with joy

The Story Behind Douglas Boathouse

Let us introduce ourselves!

We are the Finolans:

Mike, Eric, Fiona and Maeve and our two Bernedoodles, Uma & Reykie.

Hailing from Elgin, Illinois, we love to travel and have stayed in VRBO’s around the world. The ability to have a home base while traveling makes the adventure far more relaxing—and rewarding. So, when the opportunity to take the reins of the Boathouse came to us in 2021, we jumped at the chance! We have worked to carry on and build on the amazing experience Joanie and John created over 10 years ago, and look forward to many more.

We love the Douglas/Saugatuck/Fennville area, and look forward to sharing it with fellow travelers. We invite you take full advantage of the area and all it has to offer. Mike is always available to take your questions or answer any concerns, so don’t hesitate to contact us anytime.

We love that you are here!

The Finolan Family

Where Every Corner Invites Connection

Rebuilt in 2015 with quality materials and timeless warmth

The Douglas Boat House was completely rebuilt with the intention of creating a place where families feel at home the moment they walk in. We chose materials that feel warm, sturdy and inviting because we wanted the house to age beautifully and hold countless shared memories. Every detail was added with purpose so guests could enjoy a comfortable and thoughtfully crafted space for years to come.

A quiet street, just close enough to everything that matters

Steps from the Beach, Moments from Downtown

We chose this location because it blends the quiet charm of Douglas with easy access to everything we personally enjoy about life near the water. The beach sits close enough for carefree morning walks and downtown Douglas and Saugatuck are just moments away for dining, exploring and simple lake town fun. It is a spot that offers the best of both peaceful mornings and lively afternoons, which is exactly why it felt right for the Douglas Boat House.

The Douglas Boathouse

Gather. Stay. Remember.

Highly Rated. Spacious. Reliable.

Trusted by THOUSANDS of Happy Guests

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 47 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Adam Chase 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My Team of 7 guys stayed the Douglas Boathouse a couple of weeks ago for a Week long Team Building Retreat. Let me start off saying that Mike the owner was amazing, we not able to check at the normal start time so he let us stay as long as we wanted on checkout day. He was some accommodating and it was greatly appreciated. As for the Boathouse, it was exactly as advertised and perfect for what we needed. There was more than enough room for all of us. The beds were comfy and the fireplaces perfect for the chilly nights. Every nook and cranny had something unique with decor and over just a very cool place. We stayed out by the fire pit each night and played games and talked. It was perfect. The location is close to everything. Honestly I would recommend the Boathouse to anyone and we will be making this a reoccurring thing for my Team and I. Thank you Mike
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Katie Bevier 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The house was incredible! Every detail was thought of to make sure you could sit back and relax for your time there. Mike was so responsive and was one step ahead of everything. Perfect location with food options walking distance and a short drive or walk to the beach.  Our group of friends had so much fun and can’t wait to go back!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Derek Benson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing vacation home with all the amenities.  Great location, tons of space and great hosts!  Highly recommend
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Judy Lopez 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Happily we return once again to the Douglas Boathouse! We love it here. Great accommodations; 8+ bedrooms all private all with actual (comfy!) beds - no pull outs! Great kitchen, and good gathering spots for the whole gang. Great location; quiet but close to all the area fun. The BEST prepped and stocked rental unit ever experienced. Couldn’t ask for anything more. The owner Mike is outstanding with communication and care. Thank you Mike!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Sharon Campbell 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our Family’s Favorite! FUN is the first word that comes to mind when I think of Douglas Boathouse!  Both the main house and keeper’s house were clean, well equipped, and thoughtfully decorated! Made Me Smile!  Loved every inch of the property - garage playroom - fire pit -and my personal favorite - the screened in porch!  Enjoyed the games and toys for kids of all ages!  Wonderful!
We will definitely be back!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Veronica Campbell 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The Douglas Boathouse was amazing. We had a large family vacation and they thought of every detail. The house was wonderfully set up to encourage being together. From sitting areas, to ping pong to board games, there was no shortage of family fun.  And we loved sitting by the fire together every night.  The coffee station was 🤌🏼.  First rate and would highly recommend staying here. Thank you so much!!!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Kerry Schrand 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mike was great to work with and all of the special touches make Douglas boathouse a true gem! So many beautiful memories made here ☀️
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   JASON MATHIAS 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our family stayed here for Easter had a blast! Beautifully furnished as well as very functional for all ages!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Judy Lopez 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The Douglas Boathouse is an ahhh-mazing gathering place; specially designed spaces to gather and places to rest in private. So nice !! Such a great quality kitchen set up and cooking items! Coffee and wine bar area. Relax spots galore, and on the flip side the game room was a huge hit. Just an awesome place and our group had a great time there. Owner Mike was excellent to work with. Perfection !
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Chris Laughery 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We've stayed at the Boathouse multiple times and just love it. A perfect location and the perfect property for large parties. The recent addition of the game room and outdoor dining area are wonderful! I just can't say enough about how comfortable and well tended the place is!

Stay Connected with Us

We’d Love to Hear from You

As you enjoy the Boathouse, please take full advantage of the area and all it has to offer. Do not hesitate to contact Mike (via text or call) at 314-952-3379 if you have questions or concerns over the course of your stay. In addition, we welcome any—and all— feedback/suggestions for improvement during and after your stay.