Nothing except watch scenic shorelines slide slowly by, catch up on a good book, answer overdue letters, and soak up sun. Most houseboaters fish. You can fish from the houseboat, but to work shallow shorelines and small bays, the dinghy is a better choice. All houseboaters eat. The menu can be fresh-caught fish or steaks brought along.
Houseboats have complete kitchens, some even with microwave ovens, and charcoal grills.
Hot and cold running water, full bathrooms with showers, even air conditioners are common amenities. Waterslides and boarding ladders are on many boats. Traditionally, rental operators furnish so much equipment that you could arrive with only your toothbrush, suntan and bug juice, fishing license and tackle, swimsuit and towel, and a credit card. More common sense than skill is needed to pilot a houseboat. Because of the size and weight, turns and stops must be anticipated.