"It's like going on vacation every weekend."

That's how Patty and Doug Gerdel describe life on their 38-foot, twin-engine Nautaline houseboat docked at Perry Lake marina.

The Topeka couple make their convenient escape from dry land most every weekend from April through October and revel in their haven on the water that has all the comforts of home.

The main salon is a welcoming space featuring sofa seating that converts to a full-sized bed. Beneath the fore deck is the cozy master quarters with a queen-sized bed and darkness that accompanies the rhythmic rocking of the water to lull even an insomniac to sleep. Patty proudly proclaims she's no slave to the kitchen, but the galley includes a range top that does double-duty as a countertop, an ample refrigerator/freezer and a banquette table that transforms to a queen bed. Even the head (boat-speak for the bathroom) has compartmentalized functionality that includes all the necessities.

Despite the interior conveniences, it's the outdoor areas that the couple most enjoy. Doug dons his captain's hat as he takes the helm atop the fly bridge while guests make themselves comfortable on the aft deck, equipped with a swim ladder or a mezzanine level deck outfitted with table and chairs.