Houseboat Vs Yacht (Differences & Comparison)
August 30, 2022
For most people, a houseboat and a yacht refer to the same thing. But is that the case? This houseboat vs. yacht comparison guide has the answer.
If you are looking to spend some of your time living on the water, you can either purchase a houseboat or a yacht. After all, they are the same thing, right? Not exactly. Houseboats are yachts are two different water vessels.
A houseboat is more of a floating house. It’s specifically built for permanent residence in water. And while it can move around, most houseboats spend the majority of their time moored to a port. Yachts, on the other hand, are designed for leisurely water activities like racing and vacations.
In this houseboat vs. yacht comparison guide, we will take a closer look at how these two water vessels compare. We will explore their designs, the different types available, their floor plans, and their pricing. And by the time you finish reading this guide, you will have a clear idea of the differences between a houseboat and a yacht. Also, this guide will help you to know the right choice for your needs.
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Table of contents
One of the main differences between a houseboat and a yacht is their design or appearance. If you take a closer look at a houseboat, you will notice it resembles something that looks like a floating home. And this explains why it’s called a houseboat. It’s a combination of a small house and a boat, thus the name.
A yacht, on the other hand, looks like an ordinary boat. Hence, it’s almost impossible to confuse the two, in terms of appearance, since they are considerably different.
A notable difference in their appearance is the hull. Considering that different water vessels come with different types of hulls, this is also the case with these two. For a houseboat, you will notice that it has a flat bottom hull. The flat bottom hull is designed to enhance its stability in the water since it spends the majority of its time docked alongside a pier, berth, or slip.
On the other hand, yachts come with V-shaped hulls. The V-shaped hull is designed to enhance the vessel’s agility and speed. Unlike houseboats, yachts spend most of their time moving around on the water. And this explains why they come with this type of hull design.
So, if you come across a water vessel that has a flat-shaped hull, it’s highly likely you will be looking at a houseboat. On the other hand, if it has a V-shaped hull, the chances are it’s a yacht or other similar water vessels built for agility and speed.
But, it’s also worth mentioning that some high-performance boats like tournament waterski boats also have flat-bottomed hulls. This hull design is to enable them to skim smoothly on the water surface.
Similar to other water vessels, houseboats and yachts come in different types, shapes and sizes. So, if you are looking to purchase any of these two water vessels, here are the different available types.
There are two main types of houseboats. These are static or non-cruising houseboats and bluewater or cruising houseboats. Each of these two types is built for a specific purpose and utilization.
Static Houseboats
As their name suggests, static households are not built for moving around. Most of the time, they are anchored or moored to a designated spot, which may be a dock or marina. Static houseboats are the most popular out there.
Non-cruising houseboats come equipped with almost all the modern conveniences that you would find in a normal house. However, these boats like propelling mechanisms, meaning you can’t move around in them.
Cruising Houseboats
A cruising houseboat is almost similar to a static houseboat, in terms of design and furnishings. But, it comes with a propelling mechanism, which may be a sail or engine. These are designed for individuals that want to travel around in a floating house. They are mainly built for vacationing.
But, as much as you can move around in a cruising houseboat, you can’t operate it on open or high oceanic seas, meaning you can only cruise with it on small water bodies. Cruising houseboats are not as popular as their static counterparts are.
While there are two main types of houseboats, you will come across numerous types on the market, branching from these two basic ones. Some of the different kinds of houseboats that you will find on the market include:
Pontoons are flat-looking cruising houseboats, mainly made from materials like wood, marine-grade aluminum, plastic, steel or fiberglass. They are mainly designed for vacationers. Pontoons are popular among houseboat lovers because of their practicality, stability and affordable prices. Also, they are easy and safe to operate and their maintenance costs are minimal.
Barges are large houseboats, which can be moved around or permanently anchored at the bay. Barges are the most popular houseboat styles due to their generous amounts of storage space. A conventional barge can accommodate approximately 10 people, making them ideal for families.
Trailerable
Trailerables are houseboats with a narrow and long design. Their narrow design makes them ideal for cruising small river systems and canals. Its name comes from the fact that you can tow it with a vehicle and move it around since it’s lightweight. Trailerables are smaller than the majority of other houseboats. But, if you only wish to spend a short amount of your time in the water, then a Trailerable will be the ideal vessel.
Floating Home
A floating home is a non-cruising houseboat, ideal for people who don’t want to cruise around in their boats. It’s a great retirement home for someone who wants to spend the majority of their time staying on the water. Floating homes are among the cheapest houseboats. They are affordable to build and easy to maintain.
River Houseboat
If you are planning to be living permanently on water, then you should consider building or buying a river houseboat. Houseboats are usually made of fiberglass. Also, they are customizable, meaning you can have them built according to your specifications. River houseboats and you can furnish them with various conveniences.
Full hulls are popular houseboats that you will mainly find in the U.S. Full hulls come with a spacious interior, meaning they can accommodate several people. And thanks to their design, they have higher buoyancy, meaning they can handle rougher waters better than most other types of houseboats.
Just like houseboats, yachts come in different types. Yachts can be categorized based on size and purpose, among others. Let’s take a closer look at the different yachts that fall under each of these categories.
When it comes to size, you can buy a smaller yacht, medium-size yacht, mega yacht or a super yacht. As you may expect, the bigger the yacht, the more it’s going to cost you to buy and maintain.
Smaller Yachts
Smaller yachts range between 10 meters to 20 meters. The majority of smaller yachts are usually privately owned. They are mainly used for water recreational activities like water sports or cruising. These yachts can be sail-driven, motor-driven or a combination of both.
Medium-sized Yachts
Medium-size yachts range from around 20 meters to 30 meters. They are ideal for tourist groups or bigger families. Medium-sized yachts may have a small crew for operating and maintaining them.
Super Yachts
These yachts measure around 30 to 50 meters long. They come with several nice features like sky lounges, Jacuzzis, bars and dining rooms. They can be sail-driven or motor-driven. Superyachts also have a professional crew for serving the people on board.
Mega Yachts
These are the biggest yachts currently. They are usually owned by super-rich individuals since they are quite costly. Some are also owned by organizations that offer water tourism. Megayachts measure around 50 meters long or even more. Similar to superyachts, mega yachts also have a dedicated crew that works round the clock. They are also adequately outfitted with numerous luxurious facilities and amenities like cafeterias, swimming pools, suite rooms, restaurants, gyms, conference banquets and pubs, just to name a few.
Different yachts are built for different purposes and target markets. Some of the different yachts that fall under this category include:
Cruiser Yachts
As their name suggests, these yachts are mainly built for moving around or vacationing. Cruiser yachts come in different types and sizes. They are built for long-distance trips. Luxury yachts usually fall under this category.
Sports Cruisers
These yachts are built for short fast traps and water sports activities. They are quite compact and smaller in size than most of the other yachts. And as you may expect, their accommodation spaces are also limited.
Fishing Yachts
Fishing yachts are purposely built for fishing and leisurely activities. They come with adequate space for storing fishing gear. These yachts come with open decks, to make fishing easier. While you can use them in various fishing spots, they are not allowed for deep-sea fishing.
Expedition Yachts
If you love exploring or touring using water vessels, then expedition yachts are the perfect fit for you. They are built for long-distance water trips and vacations. Expedition yachts are given permission to explore remote and uncharted locations, which is usually not the case with cruiser yachts.
Trawler Yachts
Trawler yachts are also fishing vessels. However, they are built for large-scale or commercial fishing. But unlike ordinary fishing yachts, trawler yachts come with some comforts like sleeping bunks, since the crew may spend several months fishing.
Comfort and Livability
You can live on both a houseboat and a yacht. However, yachts tend to be more expensive compared to houseboats per square footage. Therefore, for the average person, a houseboat provides the most practical, affordable and convenient option.
Houseboat Floor Plan
The floor plan of a houseboat resembles that of a conventional house. As for the yacht, its floor plan resembles that of a conventional boat. For a houseboat, there will be a living room, bathroom, bedrooms and a fully-equipped kitchen, meaning it accommodate an entire family.
Considering that houseboats have a shape that is almost similar to that of a residential home, you will notice that their layouts are also similar. So, in case you live in an area where property prices are too high, you can simply opt for a houseboat. You will have almost similar living quarters at an affordable cost.
Yacht Floor Plan
As earlier mentioned, yachts are mainly designed for leisure activities like water sports, boat parties, fishing and weekend getaways. Therefore, they are mainly designed for vacationing and not long-term living in the water.
As for the floor plan, its layout will be similar to that of a boat. However, a yacht will come with more luxury features and comforts compared to a conventional boat. For instance, most speedboats don’t have indoor living spaces. They usually come with a captain’s seat and a bench. Some may also have a low table, but this feature is quite rare in speedboats.
A yacht, on the other hand, will have several luxurious features, which you can’t find in a speedboat. The main issue with yachts is that interior space is quite limited. While it may appear posh and luxurious, it lacks enough space, meaning it’s not ideal for long-term living on the water. Also, yachts tend to have limited headroom, compared to houseboats.
When you compare the two, you will conclude that a houseboat will be cheaper per square footage, compared to a yacht. If you browse the prices for these two water vessels of comparable size, you will notice that a yacht will cost you considerably more than a houseboat.
Wrapping It Up
A houseboat and a yacht are similar in various ways. Both are built for people that want to spend time in the water. But, they also have considerable differences. A houseboat is more of a floating house, designed for those who want to establish a permanent residence on water. Yachts, on the other hand, are ideal for recreational purposes. So, if you are looking to settle permanently close to a water body, then a houseboat will be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you are planning on going for a vacation or other water-based recreational activities, then a small yacht will serve you well.
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About THE AUTHOR
Brian Samson
I have a deep love of houseboating and the life-changing experiences houseboating has brought into my life. I’ve been going to Lake Powell on our family’s houseboat for over 30 years and have made many great memories, first as a child and now as a parent. My family has a passion for helping others have similar fun, safe experiences on their houseboat.
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7 Differences Between Houseboat and Yacht: Choose Your Oasis
Houseboats and yachts differ in design, mobility, cost, and purpose. Yachts offer luxury, speed, and travel, while houseboats prioritize comfort, stability, and a home-like feel on calm waters.
Houseboats and yachts are two distinct forms of living on water. They differ in design, mobility, cost, and accessibility. Here are the seven key differences to consider when choosing between them.
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1. Design and Mobility
At first glance, the primary difference between a houseboat and a yacht is their design and purpose. A yacht is a vessel primarily designed for pleasure cruising, often associated with luxury and speed, making it ideal for those desiring an adventurous marine lifestyle.
On the other hand, a houseboat is more akin to a stationary home on the water, designed for comfort and extended stays at a fixed location, perfect for those seeking tranquility and stability.
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When it comes to mobility, yachts have the upper hand. They are built for high-speed travel across open waters, allowing you to explore various ports of call.
In contrast, houseboats are typically moored at a specific location and aren’t meant for long-distance travel. However, some houseboats can navigate short distances within calm waters, such as lakes and rivers.
2. Amenities and Comfort
Both houseboats and yachts can be equipped with luxurious amenities. However, the type and extent of these amenities largely depend on the size and design of the vessel.
Yachts, particularly larger ones, can feature multiple bedrooms, full-size kitchens, spacious living areas, and even extravagant extras like Jacuzzis and home theaters. They are designed to provide comfort while maximizing space efficiency.
Houseboats, on the other hand, prioritize residential comfort over mobility. As a result, they often offer more living space . They can be equipped with amenities similar to those found in traditional homes, including larger kitchens, full-size bathrooms, and expansive living areas.
Some houseboats also feature outdoor spaces, such as decks and patios, for residents to enjoy their aquatic surroundings.
3. Ownership and Maintenance
Ownership of a yacht or a houseboat comes with its own set of responsibilities and costs. Yachts, due to their complex designs and high-end features, typically require more maintenance.
This can include regular engine servicing, hull cleaning, and upkeep of onboard systems. Furthermore, yachts depreciate over time, which can impact their resale value.
Houseboat ownership, while seemingly simpler, has its own unique challenges. These floating homes need regular maintenance to prevent water damage and corrosion.
Additionally, owners must pay docking or mooring fees , unless they own the water lot where the houseboat is moored. Nonetheless, houseboats tend to depreciate at a slower rate than yachts, making them a potentially better investment in the long run.
4. Travel and Exploration
The allure of a yacht lies in its promise of travel and exploration. With the right yacht, you can cruise across oceans, visit exotic locations, and enjoy the thrill of navigating open waters.
Moreover, yachts offer a certain level of prestige and social status, making them popular among the affluent.
On the other hand, houseboats offer a different kind of adventure – the chance to live in harmony with nature, surrounded by serene waters.
While not designed for ocean cruising, houseboats are perfect for those who prefer a quiet, stable living environment with the unique experience of being on the water. They offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life without sacrificing the comforts of home.
5. Community and Lifestyle
Yacht and houseboat ownership also differ in terms of community and lifestyle. Yacht owners often enjoy a vibrant social scene, with opportunities to participate in yacht club activities, regattas, and exclusive events. The yachting lifestyle is often associated with luxury, adventure, and social prestige.
The houseboat community, meanwhile, tends to be more laid-back and close-knit. Living in a houseboat community often means knowing your neighbors and participating in community events.
This lifestyle appeals to those seeking peace, tranquility, and a strong sense of community on the water.
6. Cost and Accessibility
The cost of owning a yacht or a houseboat can vary significantly. Yachts are generally more expensive due to their design, construction, and amenities.
The cost of yacht ownership also includes maintenance, insurance, docking fees, and fuel costs. Despite these expenses, yachts can be chartered out when not in use, providing a potential source of income.
Houseboats, on the other hand, are often more affordable. While they have maintenance and docking costs, these are typically lower than those associated with yachts.
Houseboats also offer greater accessibility to the liveaboard lifestyle, making them a popular choice among retirees and those seeking alternative housing options.
Plus, some houseboat communities provide shared amenities like utility hookups, laundry facilities, and community centers, further enhancing their appeal.
7. Purpose and Usage
The purpose and usage of houseboats and yachts differ greatly. As a pleasure vessel, a yacht is ideal for those who enjoy sailing and sea travel. It offers the excitement of exploring new locations and the thrill of mastering marine navigation.
In contrast, a houseboat serves as a floating home, providing a unique living experience on the water. It’s best suited to those who enjoy a peaceful, stable living environment with the added charm of life on the water.
At what point does a boat become a yacht?
A boat becomes a yacht when it reaches a certain size, usually around 10 meters (33 feet) in length, and is used for pleasure or sport. The term ‘yacht’ also implies a certain level of luxury and comfort, as well as the ability to undertake longer, more adventurous voyages.
What is the difference between a boat and a houseboat?
While both are types of watercraft, a boat and a houseboat serve different purposes. A boat is a general term that refers to various vessels used for transportation, fishing, sports, or leisure activities.
A houseboat, however, is specifically designed as a dwelling with residential amenities and tends to remain stationary or travel short distances within calm waters.
Is a houseboat seaworthy?
Most houseboats are not designed to be seaworthy in the same way as yachts or other ocean-going vessels. They are intended for use on calm bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, and protected coastal areas.
However, some houseboats are built with more robust designs and materials, allowing them to handle rougher conditions. It is crucial to understand the capabilities and limitations of your houseboat before venturing out into open waters.
What makes a boat become a yacht?
A variety of factors can turn a boat into a yacht. These include its size, purpose, design, construction, and the level of luxury it offers. A yacht typically exceeds 10 meters in length and is designed for pleasure or sport.
It often features advanced navigation systems, high-quality construction materials, luxurious amenities, and sophisticated design elements that set it apart from other boats.
Whether you lean towards the adventurous allure of a yacht or the tranquil charm of a houseboat, what matters most is finding a vessel that fits your lifestyle, preferences, and budget.
Both offer unique ways to experience life on the water, each with its own set of benefits and challenges. So weigh your options, consider your priorities, and make the choice that will bring you the most joy and satisfaction.
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Living On A Houseboat: The Pros and Cons
*This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
If you just recently purchased a houseboat or are in the market for one you have probably heard about people who live on their boat full time. The people who do this (often known as liveaboards) are a special breed.
Living on board a boat certainly isn’t for everyone but if it’s something you have considered or simply want to know more about than this article is for you! In this article I will list the pros and cons that you will experience while living on your houseboat.
Hopefully knowing some of the pros and cons will help you make a more informed decision or just help you have more information at your fingertips.
Benefits Of Living On A Houseboat (The Pros)
1.saving money.
Living on board a boat will often be far cheaper than renting or owning a traditional home. There will be less expenses and the original purchase price is often far cheaper than what you could ever purchase a house for.
Not only will you save money on the purchase but you will also save money on the monthly expenses. That is of course assuming you aren’t paying a normal dock fee for every night.
With a traditional home you will have to pay for gas, electricity, water, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and more.
With a houseboat you will often only have to pay for the fuel for the boat/generator, the water (assuming you don’t have a system that will pull it from the lake or river) and boat insurance, and yearly registration. You can often save multiple hundreds of dollars a month by living on board than you would renting a home.
2. Leisure At Your Fingertips
This one could be a pro and a con to be honest. If you are retired then being able to fish from your couch is probably an amazing benefit. If you are still working, whether from home or a normal 9-5, it will be difficult to have to tear yourself away when the fish are really biting or the scenery is particularly beautiful.
Being able to enjoy amazing views from your windows and deck is one of the biggest pros of living on a houseboat . Having your everyday life feel like you are on vacation while also saving money? Who doesn’t want that?
That leisure does come at a cost however. You will certainly become quite spoiled with your daily views and visiting other people for the holidays will make you want to go back to your home on the water!
All kidding aside being on vacation 365 days a year is one of the biggest attractions for people that choose the houseboat life.
3. Less Upkeep
Now don’t get me wrong, of course things will break on your houseboat and need repaired just like with a traditional home. One of the big reasons a houseboat doesn’t require as much upkeep is that there are less things to break!
With a house you have all sorts of integral systems that can be quite complex to repair. On a houseboat those systems are often quite simple.
For example your septic system in a house can get tree roots that grow into it causing you to have to hire someone to dig up your yard. With the septic on a houseboat it all goes to one tank and then just has to be pumped out at a marina.
Another thing that keeps the upkeep down on a houseboat is simply the size. With many houses running into the thousands of square feet and an average houseboat only being a few hundred it’s quite obvious that you won’t have to do as much work on a smaller property.
Even if something needs painted or stained it’s only a small amount of square feet that needs it instead of thousands with a house!
4. Less Cleaning
Just as mentioned above with upkeep since there is a much smaller area that you will live in the cleaning that needs done will be much faster and easier too. Of course you will still have dishes, laundry, etc. to do but carpet vacuuming, window washing, and even dusting will be far easier with the smaller vessel.
Since you are living on the water most of the items on board will probably be a lot easier to clean than traditional furniture pieces or kitchens. Nothing beats saving time on cleaning and watching the sunset or fishing instead!
5. The Great Community
If you’ve never been a part of a boating community you probably looked at this benefit and thought I ran out of things to write lol but this is actually a huge plus. Having a group of people that you regularly dock with means you can easily make friends no matter where you stop.
Whether you are there for a few days or a few months you will be sure and find many like minded people who love boating and can help you with the best things to do and places to go in each new area you visit!
The Negatives Of Living On A Houseboat (The Cons)
1.the size .
Size really is everything nowadays and living aboard a houseboat means downsizing especially when compared to most modern sized homes. With many people’s homes running 2,000-3,000 sq foot and larger downsizing to a houseboat that is 5-600 sq ft can be quite a shock.
If you are downsizing that much you will have to embrace the minimalist lifestyle. The last thing you will want to do is be mad or upset about getting rid of your stuff or to feel cramped in a houseboat.
2. Only Live On The Water
This can certainly be a pro or a con but for the sake of argument I will put it in with the cons. Living in the water can certainly be amazing but one drawback is you almost HAVE to stay on the water or near it all of the time.
Most people who live on a houseboat won’t have a car so every place they do will have to be close to the water or they will have to pay for a taxi or Uber. That will seriously limit the places you can visit in each town you dock at.
Unfortunately it isn’t like an RV where you can tow your vehicle and unhook when you want to visit places away from shore. You either walk or pay for a ride.
3. The Weather
Living on a houseboat you are susceptible to all of the whims of the weather where you are at. If you are planning on boating down the Mississippi but it is closed because of flooding, all you can do is wait.
If there is a major storm headed to your location you will often have to leave the boat and find a safe shelter. Moving your houseboat to safety sometimes isn’t possible and even if it is possible it’s guaranteed to be quite a hassle.
Another thing you have to deal with or plan around is the cold. Living on a houseboat when it is below freezing is absolutely NO fun so avoiding the cold is a great plan, but what if a cold front quickly blows in? You have to figure out how to deal with it or move your boat unnecessarily anytime a cold front might pass through.
4. Holiday season
Around the holidays people will often have family and friends come over for parties etc. When you live on a houseboat that is difficult if not impossible as there isn’t much room for family to gather and being on the move can make it difficult for people to plan to visit you.
Granted being in a warmer location for the holidays can certainly be nice but having a bunch of people on a 500 sq ft boat isn’t many people’s idea of a good time.
5. Doesn’t Work Well With Families
Unless you are retired than living on a houseboat can be difficult for anyone with a family. Not only will you not have much space for your family to spread out but you will also have to worry about your kids getting wet all the time.
Imagine trying to get the kids ready for school while having to worry about those that are already ready playing in the water! Not only is the kids playing in the water or getting dirty an issue but if there are still one or two adults working a 9-5 job that can also cause issues as there normally isn’t much parking nearby.
Living on board a houseboat can be great for retirees or single people but living on board with a family won’t be ideal. It can quickly wear on everyone’s nerves and once everyone starts getting annoyed with each other it can go downhill fast!
Living on a boat has many more pros and cons than just the ones mentioned here but I hope the ones I have listed will help you with making the decision for you and the ones you love.
As Always,
Happy Boating
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Matthew Robbs
I love the outdoors and especially spending time with my family. Whether on a boat or at the beach, my happy place is near the water.
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Types of Houseboats: Different Home Styles for Living on the Water
10th may 2023 by toi williams.
Houseboats have become popular in many places due to the attraction of living so close to the water and the many different types available. Houseboats are built in an array of styles and materials, but all types will have a stateroom that serves as your bedroom, a galley, head, and saloon (those are the kitchen, bathroom, and living room if you’re not familiar with nautical lingo).
Most houseboats also have a helm, a bridge, and a navigation station, although not all of them, as we’ll explain as we explore the differences among different types of houseboats.
Main Types of Houseboats
Whether adapted for canals, lakes, or harbors, houseboats fall into two main categories: cruising and non-cruising.
Cruising houseboats
Cruising houseboats can travel on the water and are typically powered by sails or an engine. They are designed to be used in bodies of water that don’t get too rough, like lakes and rivers, and generally they are not suitable for open water or high seas. They are typically viewed as vacation vessels, although boaters sometimes choose to reside on them full time.
Cruising houseboats can be equipped with a wide range of conveniences that make them feel more like an apartment and less like a boat, but they are also popular with families who use them as a platform for a variety of water activities and excursions. They also serve as homes for some anglers who enjoy taking the comforts of home with them on leisurely fishing trips.
Non-cruising houseboats
Houseboats that remain stationary are sometimes called non-cruising or static houseboats. These boats generally lack a means of propulsion, but they are large enough and stable enough to outfit with the comforts of a land-based home. They are often moored or anchored semi-permanently at piers and marinas.
People who choose to live on the water all the time often pick a non-cruising houseboat as their residence. Non-cruising houseboats tend to be larger than cruising houseboats, with enough space for storage and custom features. They are typically plugged in at a marina with internet, electrical and other utilities.
Houseboat Categories
Canal-style houseboats.
Particularly popular in Europe, canal-style houseboats , sometimes called narrowboats, have a flat bottom and deck that rises slightly upward so the front of the boat is higher than the rear of the boat. This lets the owner easily tie off on banks and docks, and use ramps or steps to disembark. Canal-style houseboats are specifically built to be used in canals and similar waterways.
Canal-style houseboats are smaller than other types, so they have less space for storage, but they are easier to move from place to place. Access to electricity and communication is achieved through a combination electrical/telephone junction box that is typically situated near the bow of the boat.
Pontoon houseboats
Houseboats built on pontoons combine the features of a pontoon boat and a typical houseboat to give boaters the best of both worlds. They are designed with two large pontoons connected by a structural grid and deck with the "house" on top. Typically made out of aluminum, they can also consist of other materials, and they make the boat stable and easy to operate. They are designed to require little maintenance, which makes these boats relatively more affordable than some other styles.
Pontoon houseboats' ease of movement makes them great for vacations and exploring new areas. They are available in a variety of sizes from small enough to comfortably hold a couple of people to large enough to contain full kitchens and bathrooms. They can also be customized with various features to make them suitable for longer excursions, including fishing, kayaking, and other water-based activities.
Floating-home houseboat
The floating-home houseboat is a stationary style commonly used for residential living. These non-cruising houseboats are designed to float on pontoons or barge-like hulls while moored to remain in one place. Often they are connected to local sewer and utility lines.
When you compare different types of houseboats, floating-home houseboats are some of the most economical and energy-efficient options available. Then again, that’s often because these houseboats have no self-propulsion or steerage capabilities.
Because these houseboats are mainly used as primary residences, they are often found in communities of like-minded individuals who enjoy life on the water. The Seattle waterfront is well known for such communities.
Catamaran-style houseboats
A catamaran-style houseboat combines the features of a catamaran and a regular houseboat to boost stability and comfort. Instead of a single hull, this design features two long narrow hulls connected by a platform on which the structure of the house sits, similar to some pontoon houseboats. The boats can be made from aluminum, fiberglass, or wood, and typically range between 30 feet and 50 feet in length.
The benefits of choosing a catamaran-style houseboat include good stability, efficient handling, and easier docking. The style is one of the most fuel-efficient types of houseboats, and they often have more storage space than other houseboat styles. There is also more room for amenities for those seeking a luxury experience.
Full-hull houseboat
A full-hull houseboat is one of the most common types of houseboat and has a solid hull made out of a single material, typically molded fiberglass, often reinforced with wood for extra strength. The superstructure, or “house,” is often built from separately molded fiberglass segments and bolted or fiberglassed to the hull. Finally, the boat is fitted out with additional mechanical boat systems plus what you’d expect to find in any house, from wiring and insulation to hardwood floors and custom decor.
Full-hull houseboats are often built with vertical dimensions that provide larger living spaces and storage spaces than other styles of houseboats of similar area. Additional storage space can be found below the deck. Various features can be added to further customize the houseboat to make it more comfortable.
Barge-style houseboats
Barge-style houseboats are some of the largest houseboats available. Boats of this style can be found in both cruising and non-cruising models. They are built with a shallow depth so that they can easily move through shallow water. They are often picked for their low maintenance requirements.
When boaters compare different types of houseboats for families, a barge-style houseboat is often chosen for its ample space. Some models accommodate up to 10 people comfortably. In addition to giving each member of the group some space, barge-style houseboats can be outfitted with amenities that make them cozier homes. Some have full kitchens and bathrooms, and some have a washer and dryer on board.
Trailerable houseboats
Trailerable houseboats are some of the smallest houseboats available and among the most versatile and affordable due to their size. However, for the same reasons, they aren’t necessarily the best boat to take the place of your current house ashore.
Long and narrow, trailerable houseboats can be towed on a trailer attached behind a powerful vehicle and stored in a large garage. Recent models like the 31-foot Lil Hobo have a catamaran hull and trailer in a fashion similar to an RV. Trailerable houseboats are constructed of aluminum, fiberglass, steel, and even wood. This style of houseboat is often used in lakes, rivers, and intracoastal waters, but is not well-equipped to handle more open water.
Once you've launched one, a trailerable houseboats is usually maneuverable, powered by one or two outboard engines, and is good for trips to out-of-the-way places. They may accommodate four people, but quarters are tight for living aboard over the long term. Smaller size means less room for amenities, so owners have to carefully consider what features to add. They also have limited storage space for your other comforts.
River houseboats
River houseboats are designed to be completely self-sufficient and are built with ample living space. They are typically chosen by families or groups of friends, with some models having a capacity of up to 20 people to enjoy an afternoon aboard. However, there are also smaller models better suited to small groups with overnight accommodations for two or four people.
River houseboats are typically constructed of fiberglass, making them sturdy vessels. They can be found in both cruising and non-cruising styles, and offer excellent accommodations with many amenities. River houseboats are available at every price point from economical to luxury, and many can be customized with additional features.
Yachts are really the only type of "houseboat" designed to be used in more open waters, and they typically fall into the category of trawler (power) or bluewater cruiser (sail). Equipped with diesel engines and/or well-built sails, their hulls are designed to perform well in rough water and are typically made of fiberglass or, sometimes, aluminum or steel.
Some cruisers live on their yachts a full-time, but their main appeal is a high-level of fit and finish, plus the ability to literally cruise the world. Depending on their size and design, some are built with multi-level staterooms, multiple heads (bathrooms), extensive galleys, and large gathering areas. Some high-end models in the superyacht category (over 100 feet in length) also have helipads, discos, spas, and an opening transom that gives access to all manner of water toys.
Luxury houseboats
Luxury houseboats may have price tags similar to yachts in that they are usually larger than typical houseboats and are built with numerous luxury features. These often include air conditioning, dishwashers, grills, and granite countertops. They are often in the non-cruising category, parked at the water’s edge as a comfortable floating house, sometimes two-stories high.
Some are motorized, however, and may be a heavily customized vessel that started life as a working commercial boat as a shipping barge or cargo ship, on a busy waterway in a country like the U.K. or the Netherlands.
See the listings at Rightboat.com to browse our houseboats of various styles and sizes.
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Written By: Toi Williams
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The Guide to Floating Homes and Houseboats
Here's what you need to know about foregoing life on land for a house that floats.
The Guide to Floating Homes
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Floating houses are frequently sold along with their slip, and in many ways sell like a typical house.
Waterfront property certainly has its appeal. Access to the river, lake or ocean can provide endless enjoyment, especially if you're a person who likes getting out on the water. But have you considered living on the water itself?
There are a few options for making your next home on a boat or along a dock, from houseboats to a yacht or sailboat to a more permanently fixed floating house. Here's what you need to know before buying a floating home or houseboat.
What Is a Floating House?
A floating home is most often used to describe a house on the water that doesn't have a motor or navigation system, commonly docked among other floating homes. The hull is often made of concrete. Because they're not mobile under their own power, floating homes typically stay in one place long term and are permanently attached to electrical, water and sewer lines.
Floating homes "essentially are barges that houses are built into," says Scott Collins, who serves as public relations co-chair with his partner, Arleen Ma, for Floating Homes Association Inc. in Sausalito, California. The association located in Richardson Bay, which is north of San Francisco , is made up of a community of roughly 400 floating homes.
What Is a Houseboat?
Houseboats often have a more house-like look than a sailboat or yacht, with a rectangular structure to maximize space indoors. The hull is more often made of fiberglass, steel or aluminum, and the motor and navigation systems mean a houseboat can travel on its own and be hooked up to side systems in a marina slip for access to power and water.
However, you're less likely to use a houseboat for day trips down the river or out onto the lake. Bill Drage, principal owner of houseboat manufacturing company East Coast Houseboats, says that most of his clients plan to keep their houseboat dockside at all times.
The size and shape of a houseboat makes it harder to direct than a yacht or sailboat – Drage says one client "said it was like moving a refrigerator across the water."
Other Boats as Residences
If you prefer the look of a more traditional boat to a houseboat or floating home, you can choose to live on just about anything you can afford as long as it's comfortable. Yachts, trawlers and some sailboats have enough space to live below deck.
If you're living on a powered boat or boathouse and primarily staying in a marina where you have a slip, know the marina's rules before claiming your boat as your permanent residence. Some marinas have a maximum number of nights allowed on board, while others are more amenable to full-time residents.
How to Buy a Floating Home or Houseboat
Floating homes are frequently sold along with their slip, and in many ways sell like a typical house. Real estate agents will list the property on the market like they would any home on land. In cities where floating house communities are established, you can often find floating home listings on Zillow, realtor.com or other consumer-facing real estate information sites.
However, a floating home cannot be purchased with a traditional mortgage . Floating home loans do exist and are more commonly offered by local banks and credit unions where floating home communities exist than a national bank or lender. Houseboat manufacturers, floating home builders and floating home communities can be a helpful resource for researching your loan options.
Financing a houseboat is the same as financing any other kind of boat, and it is considered a personal property loan.
If you're looking for a houseboat or another type of boat you can convert into your new home, websites for boat sales, houseboat and boat manufacturers and boat dealers are the best places to go.
How Much Does It Cost To Buy a Floating House or Houseboat?
Like with buying a house, floating homes and houseboats vary widely in cost to buy one. For a new houseboat from East Coast Houseboats, Drage says the range starts with a one-bedroom, 22-foot houseboat that starts under $90,000. At the higher end of the spectrum, a two-story houseboat that's 50 feet long and 16 feet wide goes for around $350,000.
Existing floating homes and houseboats on the market can be less than $100,000 and reach $1 million, depending on size, style, condition and location. If a slip comes included, you can naturally expect to pay more.
Floating Houses Have Additional Fees
Don't forget to factor in the monthly cost of keeping a slip or berth on the dock. Collins and Ma report berth fees to be a part of the Floating Homes Association in Richardson Bay can be hefty. "They can be expensive – they're over $1,000 a month. But the property taxes are not set up on the land, only on the dwelling. So your property taxes are less, but your berth fee is more," Collins says.
If you're living in a marina that isn't an established residential community, you may not be required to pay property taxes at all. Be sure to inquire with the marina as you calculate your bottom line.
What to Know About Maintaining a Floating House Houseboat
The amount of maintenance you'll find on a floating home or houseboat is similar to what you'll find in most homes, though how you maintain it may be a bit different.
When it comes to systems that don't operate exactly the same as a home on land, a person with experience working on floating houses is ideal. "Plumbing and electrical and painting – you really should have someone that specializes (in doing the work)," Collins says. In a floating home community, you're likely to find that those specialists are your neighbors.
With so much exposure to water, expect a bit more rust and warping as a result. "Wood and metal deteriorate literally in front of your eyes," Collins says.
Phyllis and Guy Biederman have been residents of Floating Homes Association Inc. on Richardson Bay for about nine years, and they note that regular maintenance issues would be most closely in tune with having a seaside home, because of the similar levels of exposure to salt water and weather coming off the water.
Because many floating homes have a concrete hull, it's important to check on the hull's condition and be diligent to repair any cracks that form. "It would be kind of like having a cracked foundation," says Guy Biederman, who teaches creative writing.
"Except houseboats can sink," adds Phyllis Biederman, a nurse.
Tips for Living on the Water
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind before you forego life on land for a floating home or houseboat:
Get to know the neighbors. Especially if you're living in a community of houseboats or floating homes, you're likely to recognize your neighbors quickly, and even more likely to become close.
"The minute we moved here we received welcome gifts like flowers, cookies, books," Ma says of the Floating Homes Association community. "I thought, 'This would never happen in the city.'"
Less is more. Like with living in a tiny house, your storage on a floating home, houseboat or other kind of residence on the water will leave you with minimal storage space. To avoid the added cost of keeping a storage unit on land, get strict about how much you accumulate.
"Any time something comes into your house, something has to come out of your house," Collins says.
Prepare for plumbing inconvenience. Even if you're living dockside, plumbing on a floating home doesn't work the same as it does for a house on land – a pump that uses electricity is a key part of getting waste out of a holding tank that's part of your home and to the line that goes to the sewer.
"If the power goes out, which it can do quite a bit in the winter, you don't flush your toilet and you don't use your water," Guy Biederman says.
Try it out first. Life in a floating home isn't for everyone. Make sure it's a good fit by visiting friends who live on the water or sign up for a tour of a floating home community. Additionally, Drage says about 80% of his clientele right now are people purchasing houseboats to use as short-term rentals through services like Airbnb or VRBO, which can be an easy opportunity to try out dockside life for a couple nights – or even a couple weeks.
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Like with buying a house, floating homes and houseboats vary widely in cost to buy one. For a new houseboat from East Coast Houseboats, Drage says the range starts with a one-bedroom, 22-foot houseboat that starts under $90,000. At the higher end of the spectrum, a two-story houseboat that's 50 feet long and 16 feet wide goes for around $350,000.
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Discover the ultimate houseboat guide for 2024. Learn about features & top models. Start planning your dream houseboat adventure today!
To get a more thorough understanding, it's useful to examine the various classes of yachts and the characteristics that differentiate them from each other, and from other types of boats. This exploration will clarify what sets a yacht apart from the great many categories and varieties of boats on the market, which includes a diverse array of watercraft, making the distinction between a yacht ...
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