Houseboat DIY Plans - 21' Pontoon - House on a Boat Building Plan
Build Your Own Houseboat Plans 21' DIY Pontoon House Boat Building Plan
These plans will show you how to build a 21' X 7' 3" House on a Boat. This is the 3rd houseboat I have made and it is by far the most economical. This Houseboat is a unique water craft in that it combines most of the comforts of home with the mobility of a boat. Of course, use is limited to sheltered waters, and speeds are slow in comparison to more sea-worthy vessels.
This is a 21-footer that provides plenty of living space for three or four persons. An extremely simple House on a Boat to build, it features a strong hull with a heavy keel and close-spaced framing, This, coupled with a relatively low profile, makes it a very stable craft.
Features include a conning room designed to provide an unobstructed view forward and to the sides through glare-proof, swing-away windows. The settee behind the helm extends to make a full length berth, and in the main cabin, steps at the companionway can be removed to make way for a fold-away berth. Of course, the entire interior arrangement can be worked out to best suit your individual needs. Shown is an arrangement where a section of the after deck is left open to provide a patio effect on the starboard side, while the galley is to port.
What is a Houseboat?
What is a Houseboat? Simply put, it's a boat designed for living. Most are motorized and tethered to land for utilities, but many are designed to operate independently of land. They're a cheap alternative to land-based living. You can even move them when the weather becomes challenging. Read on to learn more about houseboats and what they offer. After all, if you're wondering, "What is a Houseboat?" you've come to the right place!
Houseboats are designed for stability in shallow water
A houseboat is designed for shallow water and is not intended for use on open ocean waters. While yachts are built to withstand the roughest of ocean conditions, houseboats are suited for inland waters. Because houseboats are not designed for large waves, they remain stable in shallow waters. Nonetheless, there are important differences between a houseboat and a yacht. You should first understand how they operate and what their purpose is.
They are an affordable alternative to land-based living
Although houseboats are expensive to buy, the initial cost of renting a houseboat is significantly less than that of an apartment. While houseboats are not suitable for everyone, they are affordable alternatives to land-based living, and many people are considering them for a variety of reasons. For many people, the main benefit of houseboat living is its affordability. In addition, houseboats can be rented for as little as one month to experience what living on a boat is like.
They are connected to municipal utilities
Like a standard home, houseboats are connected to municipal utilities. They are also semi-permanently or permanently connected to shore electricity and water. Houseboats are usually connected to municipal utilities via a dock or floating home community. Some houseboat communities offer sewer connections and sophisticated sewage systems, which pump sewage to the city's main sewer lines. Some houseboats have on-board black and gray water tanks. They aren't permanently connected to a sewer system, so sewage needs to be pumped out periodically.
They can be rented
Most houseboats are small and can comfortably accommodate up to six people. Some even have a sleeper sofa to make two couples feel more comfortable. Houseboats also have separate sleeping quarters, bathrooms, kitchens, and linen service. Many have hot tubs, too, but those are usually an extra cost. Despite the high price tag, houseboats are a great way to enjoy the water and the surrounding scenery.
All plans are designed by Ben Stone. Ben is a retired Engineer in Canada. Ben also drafts these himself using the latest AutoCAD software to ensure accuracy. He studied Engineering back in the early 1980's. After over 30 years in the Construction industry he developed a passion for building cool items around his farm and cabin. These are great DIY projects. With a little skill anybody can Do It Yourself. Ben is always a email away if you have any questions while building one of his projects. He is adding new plans all the time.
