The pros and cons of living on a houseboat

[jw5]

Careful design -

On the other hand, careful interior design can turn a shoebox into a palace. Well, perhaps not quite. But it's essential to utilize every nook and cranny to good and efficient effect. Naturally the bigger the boat, the more room to play with.

 

[Hightech88]

We also have..its called Kelong. LOL.

 

[WangChuk]

Floating House if affordable confirm must buy .... here no typhoon no tsunami very safe.

 

[jw5]

Space is a premium -

Where you might have to compromise is with kitchen and bathroom space. Function and form are the bywords here, and remember: these are the areas where adequate plumbing and waste disposal systems are vital. And it's a fact that you'll need to have your boat's sewage system pumped regularly.

 

[jw5]

Outside terrace -

If you're stuck for space, consider building an outside terrace. This can serve as an outdoor recreation area, or as external storage space.

 

[jw5]

Are you narrow minded? -

In the United Kingdom and parts of Europe, houseboats are more usually referred to as narrow boats.

 

[jw5]

Narrowing down the choice -

Narrow boats were first built in the 18th and 19th centuries, and were originally for carrying goods on narrow canals. Narrow boats typically measure no more than 2.10 m (7 ft) in width, and not much more in height.

 

[jw5]

Fit for the family? -

Space on a narrow boat is limited. First-hand advice to anyone thinking of purchasing a vessel of this kind is simple: the bigger, the better. If you are a family of four living on a 10-m (30 ft) boat, then space, privacy, and storage is probably going to be an issue. Shop around. These boats are relatively uniform in width and length, but dimensions do vary.

 

[jw5]

Size matters -

As mentioned, narrow boat length varies. The ideal "go anywhere" size is around 15.5 m (50 ft). Boats of this length are easily maneuverable and popular with novices. A boat 20 m (65 ft) in length makes it possible to have a second bedroom on board.

 

[jw5]

Pet concerns -

If you're a pet owner, think carefully before taking to life on the water. A dog is far more likely to adopt the canal lifestyle than, say, a cat. On the other hand, if you've decided to live in a static floating home, then most pets can be accommodated.

 

[jw5]

Residential moorings -

As with any houseboat, think about where to moor your boat. If you want to live aboard full time, finding a residential mooring in the area you want to live isn't always an easy task. And do the kids go to school? Unless you have a vehicle, getting the children off in the morning and picking them up in the afternoon could end up a logistical nightmare.

 

[jw5]

Don't get locked out -

Beware of purchasing anything over 21 m (70 ft). Vessels beyond these dimensions may struggle to fit in the numerous locks found on the network.

 

[adaliedn]

I get seasick this year, so unfortunately this option is definitely not for me :/

 

[jw5]

Weather warning -

We've already mentioned the weather, and in England and many parts of northern Europe winter can be miserably cold and wet. You'll need adequate heating installed to stay warm and dry.