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(NC)-Ask those who do it. Most people say it is a very special kind of freedom to cruise this continent's most beautiful inland water routes in their own private family houseboat.

The 386-kilometre Trent-Severn Waterway of Ontario for example is a National Historic Site illustrating an extraordinary engineering feat of 36 conventional locks, a boat railway, and two of the highest hydraulic lift locks in the world. Pine forests and parkland surround the quiet coves and sand beaches of 20 lakes and at least a dozen rivers. Landmarks include Pigeon, Balsam, Sturgeon, and Stoney Lakes, as well as the communities of Buckhorn, Bobcaygeon, Rosedale and Fenelon Falls.

Houseboat vacations combine the advantages of cottage living with the adventure of travel and exploration. You can explore a different Ontario town or village every day without the worry of accommodation. Prepare your own meals on board, or enjoy dining out at countless restaurants. Stop for shopping, lakeside golf, swimming or fishing anytime you please. Soak up the sun, enjoy the scenery, make new friends at the locks, or find a secluded wilderness bay for relaxation.

To find out about houseboat rentals, go to www.ontariotravelguides.com. One of the better-known outfitters on the Trent-Severn Waterway is Eagan Houseboat Rentals, a family operation for 30 years. Eagan houseboats accommodate from one to three couples, or one to two small families. Rates range from $939 midweek, to $1,339 and $1,639 per week, depending on the vessel size. More information can be found at www.houseboat.on.ca, or by calling toll-free 1-800-720-3426.