DIY Houseboat Shows How Simplicity Is The Ultimate Sophistication

Roy Schreyer is primarily a high-end cabinetmaker, so it’s no wonder his Dianne’s Rose micro-houseboat looks as good as it does. He’s also a designer, and he’s got the plans for sale on his website if you want to give it a try yourself. (No guarantee yours will measure up aesthetically!) For a boat that can easily be towed behind an SUV, there’s a lot inside: couches that seat six and convert to sleep four; a small cooking area complete with a sink; and an enclosed head with a composting toilet inside. You don’t even have to put it in the water to use it, as it also makes a perfectly stylish and functional travel trailer.

Even though Roy supplies the design for this beauty, I’m not sure the average weekend warrior could take on a project like this and get the same end result. Perhaps the recent DIY pontoon boat might be a better choice for us folks without that high a skill level, but regardless, the finished product is pure elegance, sure to impress anyone who sees it.

You can get detailed information from Roy, but here’s a quick look at some things you might want to know before you fully decide to indulge in a DIY houseboat.

Is it legal to live in my DIY houseboat?

Yes, you can legally live in a houseboat. However, to harbor it on the water, you would have to check with the anchoring laws and regulations in your state. This is because some states require your vessel to have a registration number, while others need a current permanent address.

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What will the weather be like when it’s docked on water?

The weather in a houseboat is similar to that of whatever parking space you choose. However, for a houseboat docked in the water, it will be windy, damp, and cold. The best way to protect against the elements is by correctly insulating your vessel. You can also use heating to compensate for extreme weather conditions like winter.

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Do I need driving skills or a license to drive one?

Depending on your age and the state you are in, you may need to learn a boater’s course. Driving a houseboat will prove easy if you have experience driving a car, given driving a houseboat is similar to driving a car complete with a steering wheel. The only difference is docking, but you can use the services of an instructor before you get used to it.

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Are there any taxes for houseboats?

Most states have zero property taxes on houseboats, but once again, this depends on the state you live. However, there are annual taxes that come with owning a houseboat. These include insurance, docking charges, and registration of the vessel, among others.

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Can I live with pets?

A houseboat is just another home, and so you can live with your pets. You only need to be careful when decked in water bodies to keep your dogs leashed so that they don’t drown in water.

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Where do I park it?

You can find a floating home community and join other enthusiasts to live on water bodies or even in the middle of town in parking lots. Alternatively, you can park your DIY houseboat in your street, personal dock or marina, or even on your driveway when you are away from the water.

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How long does it take to make a houseboat?

According to Roy’s website, it will take you 600 hours, which is to say 25 days to build your houseboat. The cost for making one depends on how big you want your houseboat to be as well as the materials you use. You can, however, build a tiny houseboat for as little as $5000. In terms of maintenance costs, for one, you won’t have a lawn to mow! The maintenance costs are on a case by case basis. They can be likened to the cost of maintaining your car, which is determined by usage and care.

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Images © RoyDesignedThat.com | h/t Tiny House Talk

Even though Roy supplies the design for this beauty, I’m not sure the average weekend warrior could take on a project like this and get the same end result. Perhaps the recent DIY pontoon boat might be a better choice for us folks without that high a skill level, but regardless, the finished product is pure elegance, sure to impress anyone who sees it.

Can I rent a houseboat?

Yes, in case you feel a DIY houseboat is too much a hassle for your amateur craftsmanship, you can easily rent one. You can get the size and specifications you want for the desired period.

Of course, if you do feel up to the task, be sure to visit Roy’s website at http://roydesignedthat.com to get the full scoop on how to get started building your own.

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