Houseboat

From ClassicBoatWiki

A Houseboat is generally defined as a floating home with all the amenities necessary for living aboard. Early Houseboats were not self-powered and were usually permanently moored, sometimes in small floating communities. Uses varied greatly from one’s permanent address to summer cottages to hunting and fishing get-aways.

Modern Houseboats are self-powered and are designed for use in fairly shallow and calm waters. Their hulls are built of steel, aluminum or fiberglass and are usually flat, rectangular barge shaped in order to maintain a minimum draft. Others are floated on 2 or more pontoons. Most Houseboats contain a single level under roof and often include a roof deck area. There are two and even three story luxury Houseboats with all of the amenities of a 5-star hotel as well.

There are numerous live-aboard Houseboats throughout the world, including the USA. However, the most popular use for them is for warm weather recreation. Many of the larger lakes include marinas that specialize in renting or leasing their Houseboat fleet for summer vacations.

In 1936 Chris-Craft introduced a 30’ Houseboat built of yellow pine and white oak with a canvas roof. It’s easy to understand why none of them can be found today. They did not include an engine and dealers were encouraged to sell a 16’ Utility runabout for towing and commuting.

In 1968 Chris-Craft reintroduced Houseboats to their fleet. See Aqua Homes.