Picture yourself on a
Thoroughbred
Reflection of
Luxury
6775 E. Hwy 90 | Monticello, KY 42633 www.tbboats.com | 606-340-3191
Volume 25 | Issue 6
November | December 2015
FEATURES
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16 20 24
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THE BIG JUMP A Houseboat You Can Afford
HOUSEBOATING TAKE 2 Determined To Get Back On The Water
THIS OLD BOAT
Why Unique Is Better
DEPARTMENTS
8 10 14 15
AT THE HELM
28 36 37 39
BROKER SECTION
NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2015
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We Need More Plastic Bottles
BOW TO STERN Houseboating News, People & Places
LIVING ABOARD Outsourcing: Passing The Buck
MAINTENANCE Houseboat Checkup Q&A
36
Used Houseboats For Sale
INTERIOR BY DESIGN Fun Ways To Decorate
ADVERTISER INDEX Page Number Listings
BACK DECK RECIPES
Christmas Cuisine
Cover photo by Brady L. Kay | Cover design by R.D. Dye
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So, you don’t have bow
THRUSTERS No problem, we can install hydraulic bow and stern thrusters on your boat in one day without moving your boat from the slip.
STAFF PUBLISHER Greg Larsen EXECUTIVE EDITOR Brady L. Kay EDITORIAL STAFF Austa Cook, Jean Knutson, Jake Manning, Trevor Mason, Roy Sparks EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENTS Dan Armitage | Gordon Groene Janet Groene | Gary W. Kramer Gini McKain ADVERTISING/EVENTS Mitch Brian Greg Larsen Terri Duncan PRODUCTION MANAGER Janet Chase LAYOUT & DESIGN R.D. Dye PRODUCTION Janet Chase Jim Donovan R.D. Dye PUBLISHER ASSISTANT Terri Duncan
• No trucks, trailers, welders, fabricators needed. We do it all and you save thousands!
MARKETING DIRECTOR Greg Larsen CIRCULATION MANAGER Yvonne Young CONTROLLER Clayton Ward
• We make several styles and sizes of built in, bolt on, and tube hydraulic thrusters.
STERN THRUSTER
• Are they strong? There’s nothing stronger!
ACCOUNTING Laura Rafferty IT DIRECTOR Chuck Harris
When you’re tired of sitting at the dock.
There’s really only one choice-
WESTERBEKE GENERATOR INSTALLATION
HydraNautics 859-885-5545
See for yourself at
thrusterman.com
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Copyright 2015, published by Harris Publishing, 6 per year, sub rates, back copies, foreign, reproduction prohibitions, all rights reserved, not responsible for content of ads and submitted materials, mail permits, printed by Falls Printing, Idaho Falls, Idaho. CORPORATE OFFICES Harris Publishing, Inc. 360 B Street, Idaho Falls, ID 83402 (208) 524-7000 • Fax (208) 522-5241 Founded by Darryl W. Harris President - Jason Harris Vice President - Chuck Harris Vice President - Ryan Harris Vice President - Steve Janes Vice President - Greg Larsen Treasurer - Clayton Ward Secretary - Janet Chase ALSO PUBLISHERS OF: Diesel Tech Magazine Pontoon and Deck Boat Magazine
By Brady L. Kay
What We Really Need Is More Plastic Bottles
The average American throws away approximately 185 pounds Do you get a facial tic when you see empty water bottles of plastic per year and on average 50 percent of the plastic we use floating in the water? is just used once and then thrown away. But don’t worry. It only Do you grind your molars when you see piles of discarded takes about a thousand years or so for plastic to degrade so I’m bottles scattered on the beaches of your favorite lake? not exactly sure why everyone is so uptight about this. Whoops, Does it make you sick to your stomach when you read the sorry again. I must be in a sarcastic mood today. number of plastic bottles produced every year has increased Americans throw away 35 billion plastic yet again? water bottles every year. Can you believe that? Not me. I want more plastic bottles. I want “Think about how I’m still trying to get my head around the fact them everywhere. The more the better. If that a bottle of water is just as expensive as a we could get enough empty plastic bottles, much fun we lot of regular drinks at most marinas. If I would maybe we could create a walking bridge from have told you 20 years ago that we would be State Dock to Jamestown Marina on Lake could have with paying for water you wouldn’t have believed Cumberland! Who’s with me? some type of an me. It wasn’t too long ago when plastic bottles I used to be like you. I used to curse the didn’t even exist and all we had were those fact that empty plastic bottles are taking obstacle course for glass bottles that would at least sink and end over every square centimeter of our waters. houseboaters to up on the bottom of the lake to provide a That is, until I finally came to my senses and habitat for aquatic life—or at least that’s how realized that it’s never going to change and I navigate as we avoid we’d justify it when we would watch some idiot should just accept that trash that piles up in littering off the back deck of his boat. hitting piles of empty our waterways is just part of boating. I doubt I’ve provided any information that As boaters, we need to plaster outside the plastic bottles.” you didn’t already know. However, my purpose box here! Let’s get creative and figure out with this column is for all of us to encourage more ways we can help litter our beaches and municipalities to promote anti-littering camhouseboating lakes. You think floating logs from the spring runoff are challenging for your boat driving skills? paigns, increase fines, and enforce littering laws. When is the last time you heard of someone being fined for littering? Think about how much fun we could have with some type of an What about making the producers and sellers of plastic conobstacle course for houseboaters to navigate as we avoid hitting piles of empty plastic bottles floating near our propellers. Isn’t this tainers responsible for the consequences of their products? They can choose either to clean up their “spill” or use biodegradable why we installed our thrusters in the first place? containers. Okay, please forgive the sarcasm. I was just afraid that if I led Regardless, we all need to do our part by getting away from off my column with something like, “Enough plastic is thrown plastic bottles or at the very least, just keep them out of our away each year to circle the earth four times,” you might just diswaterways! Enough is enough; it’s time to take back our favorite miss me as a tree hugger and flip the page. I drive a diesel pickup houseboating lakes and take a stand on littering. truck to work each day so my neighbors already think I’m an environmental terrorist, so before you slap any label on me please understand I’m simply just a concerned boater who is tired of seeBRADY L. KAY HOUSEBOAT EDITOR ing trash in the water—especially plastic bottles. 8
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T h er e a r e ho u seb o at s a n d t h en t h er e a r e s ta r d u s t c rui sers
Stardust Cruisers
6775 E Hwy 90 • Monticello, KY 42633 info@stardustcruisers.com Phone: 606-340-3191 www.stardustcruisers.com
BOW TO STERN
H O U S E B O AT I N G ’ S P L A C E S , FA C E S , V I E W S , N E W S , P R O D U C T S A N D M O R E Sirius Signal Flare Alternative With an estimated 30 million flares disposed of nationwide in the next three years, Sirius Signal announces an environmentally safe alternative to marine flares, the Sirius Signal battery-operated SOS Distress Light. The device uses an LED light and doesn’t expire. Its design is water submersible, buoyant and lightweight, with a visibility of 10 miles and a battery life of 6 plus hours. It also meets US Coast Guard requirements for Night Visual Distress Signals. When combined with the included daytime distress signal flag, it meets all USCG Federal Requirements. The SOS Distress Light retails for $99.95. (888-526-0005/www.siriussignal.com) ■
FCF Upgrades Latest Air-Conditioning System The 2015 International Boatbuilders’ Exhibition & Conference (IBEX) saw a lot of exciting innovations, including Webasto Thermo & Comfort’s FCF Platinum air-conditioning series with important design improvements. The FCF Platinum 12,000 and 16,000 BTU/h models, both available in 115 or 230v, show off digital displays, low-cost replacement parts, and marine-grade stainless steel frames. A larger proprietary condenser also makes for better water flow and improved performance in high-stress conditions. The MSRP for the 12,000 is $2,425 and the 16,000 is $2,550. (800-215-7010/ www.webasto-marine.com) ■
V4 Controller Makes Fun On The Water Easy FCI Watermakers’ V4 Controller is the go-to for onboard water purification. Quiet, reliable and simple to use, the V4 Controller boasts a depth of standard features and overall technological superiority. The controller provides a wealth of data, from PSI, flow rates, and water temperature to valve position, even allowing complete customization and programming for automated, self-maintenance processes. The V4 Controller is available in 7- or 4.3-inch panels. (801-906-8840/www.fciwatermakers.com) ■
CanCooker Cookbook Now Available From German applesauce meatloaf to chocolate steam cake, can cooking is the most convenient (and delicious) system available for those tight on space. This spiral-bound cookbook is printed on heavy coated paper to resist stains and last for years. Over 100 full-color recipes inside. It retails for $24.99. (877-844-2772/www.cancooker.com) ■ 10
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Water Where You Want It
A good hose is hard to find, but it doesn’t have to be anymore. Swan Products’ Element RV&Marine series hoses will make your boating life easier. Designed to be lightweight and flexible, the Element RV&Marine series of hoses features patented Hose Armour to prevent kinking at the spigot. The Element RV&Marine has a burst strength of 300 PSI and comes in two lengths, 25 feet at $14.99 and 50 feet at $24.99. (973-744-0707/ www.swanhose.com) ■
Be Heard Before You’re Seen Stay safe with Schmitt & Ongaro Marine’s popular Deluxe Stainless Steel Shorty Single and Dual Trumpet horns. The company’s horns were designed with reliability and easy installation in mind and feature an innovative drain system that increases functionality in rain or choppy weather. Both units meet ABYC A-23 standards for boats up to 39 feet.
The Deluxe Stainless Steel Shorty Single Trumpet retails for $113.30 and the Deluxe Shorty Dual Trumpet for $229.10. (866-724-6488/ www.schmittongaromarine.com) ■
Warm Up Your Toes With advanced heat technology, the ThermaCELL PROFLEX insoles provide remote controlled foot warming comfort as needed. The high-tech wireless remote gives fingertip control between medium heat (100°F), high heat (111°F) and no heat, all while your feet remain comfortable in your shoe or boot through the use of a built-in thermostat during those cold houseboating months. (www.thermacell.com) ■
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ANCHOR IN There’s an anchor hiding inside every issue and the fastest ten people to find it are included in our next magazine! In the Sept/ Oct issue, the anchor was on page 19 on the side of the log. Here are the first to find it:
TERRI LANGDON—Visalia, Calif. KENYON AND DALTON MORROW—Lake Powell, Utah DWAINE HEROUX—Cocoa, Fla. TAMMY WOLFE—Elliston, Va. CHRIS KARENBAUER—Pittsburgh, Pa. RUSTY BOLES—Knoxville, Tenn. JOEL THORPE—Urbandale, Iowa DEWEY WHITNEY—Delray Beach, Fla. JAIME CAMINO—Cleveland, Ohio TOM OLSON—Colorado Springs, Colo. Join in the hunt! As soon as you find the anchor, email the location, your name and your hometown to anchor@ houseboatmagazine.com. Good luck! ■ WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM 154586InfFab12v.indd 1
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BOW TO STERN
H O U S E B O AT I N G ’ S P L A C E S , FA C E S , V I E W S , N E W S , P R O D U C T S A N D M O R E
From The Forums Excerpts from recent Houseboat forum exchanges at www.houseboatmagazine.com Recently a forum member was wondering what boat walkthrough questions to ask: [RonandBee] We have narrowed down our search to two Sumerset boats that are in freshwater in Texas and will be walking through them in a week or two. Are there any particular questions we should ask since we are fairly new to houseboats? Can an accurate marine survey be done with the boat in the water, or would it be advisable to pay the extra money to have it pulled? My big concern is galvanic corrosion. [OLD HOUSEBOATER]: FOR SURE pull them. You’re going to spend serious money for a boat. If nothing else you will not have to wonder. [easttnboater]: You can have an insurance-type survey done in the water. But if you are worried about thin spots in the aluminum due to galvanic corrosion, then you are going to have to have it pulled and the hull inspected. I would want to crawl through the hold and look for water spots in the decking and check out the plumbing and waste tanks. I would also want to spend a lot of time looking at the roof—specifically where the railings are screwed down. I would want to know when the outdrives were last serviced. [Desimulacra]: Couple of tricks that I would do regardless of
the survey: take a water hose with a nozzle that shoots a good stream and “rinse” the walls of a boat. If there is damage from water running into the walls you can hear the difference EASY. When checking out the top, look for cracks or pulled screws, and as you are doing so walk over the complete top—if you feel a soft spot there is damage. The things that happen to a boat like Sumerset are storm damage or neglect to the integrity of the top/ sides, causing major damage to the structure. As long as these boats are cared for, they will be okay. Do you have more advice you want to add? Jump on our forum page at www.houseboatmagazine.com/forum and share your experience. ■
We’re on
We’d love to see your best houseboat-lifestyle photos posted on our Facebook page!
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36-inch Diameter Modular N EW Plastic Pontoons
SmartPlug Unveils New Packaging To match its revolutionary product, SmartPlug Systems launches new packaging and a SKU to go with it. The 30-amp, 50-foot cordset and inlet are now nested together in a sharp-looking, easy-to-carry case. The SmartPlug connector and inlet protect against the leading causes of fire and electrocution: loose connections and overheating. The unique sleeve configuration allows any pressure or force to be absorbed by the assembly’s body, not the electrical pins. SmartPlug’s 30-amp cordset is constructed with the finest materials available, including 316 marine-grade stainless steel and UV- and impact-resistant plastics. Most notably, it features US-built, end-toend tinned copper wire. (206-285-2990/www.smartplug.com) ■
The Best Idea Since the Indian Canoe New hull design for high performance and greater lift
• Uses: Pontoon boats, houseboats, work boats — replace old steel or aluminum pontoons • Heavy-duty: Molded from sturdy, medium density polyethylene (MDPE) and filled with polyurethane foam for increased stability • Modular: Each bow, middle, and stern modules are 10 ft. in length
JAWS Kitchen Cleaner A Shark- (And Mess-) Free Kitchen, Guaranteed Looking for one solution for all your boat cleaning needs? The JAWS Kitchen Cleaner and Degreaser is the perfect product for all your cleaning needs. JAWS (Just Add Water System) is the all-purpose solution to cleaning the multiple surfaces of the interior of the boat including kitchen, bathroom, windows and much more. It’s convenient, effective and portable. (646-230-6947/www.jbcumberlandpr.com) ■
• Displacement at full submersion: Bow module supports gross weight of 3,100 lbs. and middle/stern each supports 4,200 lbs. 19502Comal N. Comal River Drive 19502 River Drive Cypress, TX TX 77433 77433 Cypress, phone:419-675-0002 419-675-0002 Phone: toll free: 877-456-2531 Toll Free: 877-456-2531 email: info@plasticpontoon.com Email: info@wilsonpontoons.com
www.plasticpontoon.com
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In business since 1995, new houseboat construction, large houseboat transportation up to 135', used boat refurbishing.
138 Sunstar Blvd. Monticello, Kentucky
606-348-6648
www.sunstarhouseboat.com WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM 153855Sunsta12h.indd 1
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L IVING AB OARD
BY JANET GROENE WITH GORDON GROENE
Get a Meal Meal-in-a-box companies are getting national attention. Through www.BlueApron.com or www.Plated.com you can get pre-measured ingredients for three gourmet meals for two people for about $60 to $75. Pro: Everything is delivered dockside, right down to frozen meats and plastic bags of pre-measured herbs. Instructions take you through preparing a gourmet menu. You don’t have to plan, shop or stow. Cost is cheaper than a restaurant meal and for many cooks it’s creative and satisfying. Menus include hard-tofind ingredients. Con: You’re cooking from scratch with all the usual work: peeling, dicing and clean up.
Ship a Parcel
Disclaimer: These sites are listed for information. No endorsement by the writers or this magazine is implied.
Passing The Buck Some chores are more fun than others. Some require skills that aren’t in your wheelhouse and others require tools or supplies that you don’t have room to keep onboard. The buzzword today in business is outsourcing. Where can this new trend fit into your liveaboard life? Thanks to the internet, FedEx and other modern conveniences, you can be almost anywhere and still get quick and affordable ground transportation (think Uber), a virtual assistant (think www.Freelance.com or www.TasksEveryday. com) or have a personal shopper take your grocery list to the supermarket and bring back your order (think www.TaskRabbit. com). Amazon.com is even considering making deliveries from farmers’ markets.
Where Does It Pay To Pass The Work On To Others? Get Organized If you just can’t find enough room onboard for everything, sites such as www.HomeBlue.com and www.FindMyOrganizer. com will send you a professional organizer. The median price according to www.payscale.com is $25 per hour with rates up to $60 an hour in some areas and more for mileage or complex projects. Pro: You get hard-headed guidance. You may be emotional about bric-a-brac or that stack of unread paperbacks. A professional is not. A pro also knows where to find storage and organizing aids that allow you to sort and stow more efficiently. Con: A stranger comes onboard and takes charge of your stuff. You pay for the advice even if you don’t follow through. 14
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Whether you’re shipping a gift to a loved one, returning a misfit or sending an item in for repair, it’s a hassle to find wrapping materials, prepare the package and get it to the post office. Instead, go to sites such as www.Shyp.com or www. Shipster.com. These sites are specifically for shipping while www.TaskRabbit.com is a general site that can find a gofer for all types of errands. Pro: Shyp packs the items, evaluates the best shipping methods and texts or emails you a receipt and tracking information. Con: Insurance coverage may be limited and it’s available only in larger cities.
Outsourcing Realities Most outsourcing websites are agents or franchisers for individual entrepreneurs. They may or may not be bonded, insured, licensed or background-checked. Many marinas don’t permit outside workers to work on resident boats. This probably doesn’t apply to personal and household jobs, but ask before commissioning work on the deck, hull or mechanical, plumbing or electrical systems. Forget privacy. The search begins by asking your email or mobile phone address and, if you seek hands-on help, your location. You need a payment method such as a credit card or PayPal. Some sites ask your social security number. By nature, some jobs must probe personal information. Your personal shopper knows you’re buying adult diapers, hair dye or a 42-inch belt and your personal organizer learns you’re a packrat. Even if it’s entirely an online job done at a remote location, your virtual assistant takes online control of the files you want cataloged, the novel you want edited, the mail list you want vetted, the itinerary you are planning and perhaps your entire hard drive. Online help can be accessed from anywhere but it takes time and effort to find the right hands-on work at your location. And even though www.TaskRabbit.com is one of the larger networks, it’s not available everywhere.
About the Authors “Living Aboard” is a recurring column that focuses on living on your houseboat. Gordon and Janet Groene lived full-time on the go for ten years and they hold the NMMA Directors Award for boating journalism. Janet posts new galley recipes weekly at www.BoatCook.blogspot.com. ■
M A IN TENANC E TI P S
BY WARREN CHILDERS | SUNSTAR YACHT SALES & BROKERAGE
Houseboat Checkup
Don’t Forget Your Houseboat
Warren Childers of Sunstar Yacht Sales & Brokerage has been around the block, or should we say around the dock, a few times. In almost 23 years of being involved in the houseboat industry, Warren has traveled 28,000 miles on the inland rivers and Intracoastal Waterway and from Canada to Key West, Fla., by houseboat. He’s seen and fixed about anything you could ask about in that time, and he loves sharing what he’s learned. That said, we have exciting news! We’re adding an “Ask Warren” column to the pages of Houseboat magazine. If you have a question about houseboat maintenance, send Warren an email and we’ll include the best inquiries in our magazine. For an example of how this will work, check out Warren’s advice on checking up on your houseboat throughout the end of the year.
Question: How often should we check on our houseboat in the wintertime? Submitted by Linda Eggart Warren: It is important to not abandon your boat for the winter season. You or someone you trust should do a periodic check on your boat at least once per month to make sure all is well during off season months.
Question: One of the most worrisome issues I can think of is the bilge pumps going out while I’m away. What are some things to watch out for to prevent this from happening? Submitted by Thomas Carr Warren: As always, be sure to check all bilge pumps to make sure they are operating properly. Make sure to check the float switch. This is located at the bilge pump or in some cases it is a part of the bilge pump. Lift the float switch and make sure the pump is activated. Look around the pump for anything that could be drawn into the pump and cause it to not function. This one may sound silly, but I know of boats that sank last winter because of this issue. Check all stand pipes in your bilge. Make sure that unused stand pipes are capped off tight and that all hose clamps are tight. Under a snow load on the roof, your boat may be pressed down farther into the water, putting more pressure on all of these fittings. One failure here is enough to put your boat on the bottom. If you have a question about houseboat maintenance, shoot Warren an email at warren@houseboatmagazine.com. ■ WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM
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Taking The Big Jump Just Got Easier
If you had half a million dollars, what would you spend it on? A Colonial house? A white tiger cub? A 2016 Lamborghini Aventador? If you’re reading this magazine, chances are you’d skip over any of those options and go straight to the listings for houseboats. “After all,” you muse, “I’m not going to find a new boat for anything less.” That, my friend, is where you are drastically wrong. Feeling skeptical? Just chat with Doug Bauknecht and Susan Kendall and they’ll tell you up front that you don’t need $500,000 to buy a new houseboat.
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Upgrading
Doug and Susan have always considered themselves boaters, but they weren’t full-on houseboaters until they took the jump from their 22-foot pontoon to their new 45-foot houseboat. There are a lot of reasons why anyone would want to try out houseboating, but for this couple it came down to their love of overnight camping on their pontoon. Eventually thoughts started creeping in about finding nautical arrangements that come with more modern technology, such as air conditioning, bathrooms, and a compact kitchen that includes all the amenities needed for cooking and storage.
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They turned their attention to houseboats, and the research spree began. “We really did a lot of research,” Doug says.
Finding Destination Yachts After putting in time to narrow down what exactly they were looking for, Doug and Susan decided they were after an aluminum-hull boat. They started looking into the old MyYacht houseboats
Why you don’t need $ 500,000 anymore By Austa Cook by Tracker Marine and that led them to Sheldon Graber, who used to build boats for this manufacturer before branching off to build his own houseboats at Destination Yachts as the company’s president. Once they found Sheldon’s line of builds, they knew this was exactly what they had been looking for. “We really liked their design, their price point, and how they worked with you on the boat, so that’s why we chose Destination Yachts,” explains Doug.
And working with this manufacturer on designing their dream houseboat was a very pleasant experience for both of them. “They made it very easy,” says Doug. “Any questions we had, both Dillon Graber, the production manager, and Sheldon were very willing
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to work with us. Really, they made it so easy.” From the builder point of view, Sheldon chimes in, “Doug and Susan were great during the build and it was always fun to see their reaction when they came to the plant.” “We like the wide body, the cabinets, I mean I could go on and on. You name it, we like it on that boat,” says Doug. It even has personal touches that are functional without being over the top in cost, like the Fusion stereo, bigger generator, bigger motor and solar panels on the roof.
Doug Bauknecht and Susan Kendall found exactly what they were looking for with this Destination Yacht.
Smooth Operation
As you can guess, creating Doug and Susan’s houseboat was a harmonious union of the minds. Everything that Dillon and Sheldon had ideas about were the very things Doug and Susan were already on track with as well. What Sheldon thought would fit and what the couple thought they wanted were oftentimes one and the same, which made this a smooth-sailing project. After their houseboat was finally complete, Doug and Susan had already planned exactly where they were taking it—right down to the exact slip. Edgar Evans Marina on Center Hill Lake, Tenn., would be their houseboat’s new home. Laughing, Susan added, “We had our boxes packed and ready to move in! We were very excited.”
As Seen At The Expo But first their new houseboat would take a detour to the annual Houseboat Expo in Kentucky so Sheldon could spread the word about his newest line. When we laid eyes on it, we couldn’t help but feel more than impressed—not only by the beautiful design, but by the surprising price tag. The new line of affordable houseboats start around $95,995 and the new owners were on hand during the Expo to help promote their 45-foot houseboat that retails for around $140,000. “Doug and Susan even helped answer questions to other customers at the show,” says Sheldon. Once we all had the chance to admire Destination Yachts’ new build, the houseboat made the rest of the journey to Center Hill Lake. Conveniently roosting about an hour and a half from where Doug and Susan live, these two wasted no time in making visits at least on weekends and holidays, as well as hosting family events and overnight camping trips. Above all, Doug and Susan planned to use their new houseboat to fulfill exactly what they were looking for; as Susan puts it, “A good part of it is a retreat, yeah, but we do want to enjoy our kids and our grandkids and company and have a safe place for them to be.”
Value-Driven
A good question to ask at this point is how Doug and Susan felt Destination Yachts has done in bringing a new entry-level, high quality houseboat to the market.
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MORE INFORMATION: Destination Yachts 812-254-8800 www.destinationyachts.com
This is exactly what we asked Doug, and he didn’t hesitate in replying, “I feel like they’re right on point, because we were looking for a houseboat in this size and were really limited in what was available, and what was available was very old.” This was the same thing the folks at Destination Yachts picked up on as well. “Our goal was to have a price point boat that was well-built and didn’t look like the normal square box houseboat,” Sheldon says. “We feel that we have met all these objectives and continue to improve it as we move forward.” Doug was happy to add, “They’re right on point as far as price and size. I think a lot of people don’t want a boat that’s so big that they can’t use it and get out and pull in and out of their slips, like a smaller boat can.” “And the décor is beautiful,” adds Susan. “It’s just right.” All throughout designing their new houseboat, both have noted how the vessel is a little more streamlined than others out on the water. With rounded corners and a smoother look all around, Doug points out, “It’s kind of high-tech-looking compared to most houseboats you see.” And this fits exactly what they were wanting all along. “We’re just very happy with the whole experience,” Susan says cheerfully. The time from which they made their decision to commit to Sheldon’s build to the time they stepped onboard was very quick compared to how long they found other builds would take, which Doug and Susan really appreciated.
“Through it all they have been very professional and continue to say how much they love the boat,” Sheldon says.
Story Behind The Name
Doug and Susan decided to christen their houseboat RJK in honor of Susan’s parents, who both passed away last year. Susan’s father’s name was Robert Joachim Kendall and her mother’s name was Regina June Kendall, making both of their initials RJK. So now that Doug and Susan are happily settled onboard, what advice would they give to any first timer out there who didn’t know if they were ready to commit to a houseboat? Start small, they both say. “You just see all these large houseboats in the marina never leaving, and we wanted to make it easy to get out on the water,” Susan explains. “There are so many people in every marina that take it out two or three times a summer at best, but we feel comfortable taking ours out daily,” Doug adds. “We’ll come in and get something to eat and go back out, or eat out there. That was the reason we went with that size, because of the flexibility of being able to move.” “That’s really what we wanted,” Susan sums up. “So we could really get out there and enjoy ourselves.” And you can bet they’ve been enjoying themselves ever since they first jumped onboard this Destination Yachts build. ■
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Houseboating Take 2
Determined to get back on the water (again)
T
o say that Rolland Bartle loves houseboating might not do justice to the depths of it. In the late summer of 1996, he and his wife, Ruth, stood looking at their dream boat, a gleaming, 55-foot KingsCraft home cruiser moored along the Tennessee River around Decatur, Ala. For them, the boat seemed perfect—100 percent aluminum construction, excellent handling on the water, and a brand they had owned and loved before. Until they went inside, the deal seemed solid. “The owner was more a partying kind of guy,” Rolland recalls. “The boat was originally sold to the Tennessee Valley Authority that used it for buoy maintenance on the Tennessee River. Not sure how long he had it after that, but the mechanical issues ultimately got away from him, and I believe he was almost afraid of using it for fear of an on-water breakdown.” That’s a pretty significant problem for anyone who loves to live on the water. Rolland thought to pass on the deal and look elsewhere, sadly leaving his and his wife’s dream boat, but the owner was adamant about making the sale. He and Rolland eventually struck up a deal: before 20 NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2015
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By Jake Manning
officially purchasing the boat, Rolland would have three weeks of unrestricted access to correct as many issues as he could. If in the end he decided not to purchase it, whatever fixes would be free of charge. The owner agreed, and Rolland happily collected the keys. “I found many mechanical issues with the boat itself, the main propulsion motors, and the genset,” says Rolland. “The shaft logs had leaked so much that the boat had about six inches of water throughout the hull. It was really in danger of sinking at that point.” Those weren’t the only problems he found. The original power plants were in terrible disrepair, the oil not having been changed for years. The steering system had nearly locked up without lubrication, and most gauges were inoperative. The interior also needed serious work (and an updated decor). The floors and walls appeared to have some water damage as well. Three difficult weeks of fixing and tinkering eventually satisfied Rolland. The boat was deemed seaworthy, and he decided to purchase it, take it home, and make it new: a not-so-new challenge for him.
And thus was christened Ruth and Rolland’s dream boat, My Weakness III.
Veteran Skipper That wasn’t the first time Rolland had dealt with less-than-optimal boats. “I have boated since I was 19 years old with runabouts,” says Rolland. “My wife and I rented our first houseboat—a 34-foot StarCraft—for a brief vacation on Lake Cumberland in Southern Kentucky in 1978. We liked it so much we bought a 32-foot Gibson single engine houseboat located in Cincinnati, Ohio.” They eventually moved from the small Gibson to a 40-foot KingsCraft in 1980, and later to a 44-foot KingsCraft. They held on to the 44-footer until early 1996 when someone unexpectedly wanted to buy it. That was for the best, perhaps, as both Rolland and Ruth had eventually wanted to buy KingsCraft’s largest boat, the 55-foot model. What Rolland found on the inside of this one, however, was enough to make anyone pause and reconsider.
On The Water
My Weakness III’s maiden voyage was an exciting time for both vessel and passenger. “Since this was done in October,” says Rolland, “the boating season was in wind-down mode, and some marinas were even closed. That’s a main reason I needed to feel comfortable enough with the mechanical issues that I could actually make the trip without breakdowns.” A 10-day, thousand-mile journey back up the Tennessee and Ohio Rivers is nothing to take lightly. Rolland constantly repaired electrical and fuel supply issues along the way, even purchasing eight water-separating fuel filters to prevent contamination in the fuel tanks. “Storms also played a major role,” he says, laughing, “and the boat leaked rain water through almost every window and door. In spite of all of that, we made it home to Port Aurora.” Rolland began the remodel process immediately after arriving home. He quickly discovered there were many more problems with the craft than he first believed, but nothing would dissuade him.
Tear Down “We made the decision,” Rolland says, “to completely gut the boat and literally make it a new one, with the lone exception being the hull itself.” The aluminum hull was the only piece in decent shape. In the coming months, Rolland removed all internal walls, structuring, and paneling—it had discolored and rotted—along with the flooring, eight side windows, both main drive engines, all electrical wiring and outlets, and both AC/heat reverse cycle units. Every part reeked of disrepair and lack of maintenance. With literally an empty shell, Rolland and his wife decided to draft their own floor plan. “Gutting the interior and taking inventory of what was needed took a year,” Rolland says. “I decided on all-new mechanical systems and upgrading what needed to be.” There was a staggering amount of work to be done, but Rolland buckled down and got to it.
My Weakness III in early February, 1997 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM
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The time and effort expended speak for themselves. Rolland took the rusty, rotting shell that once was and created something truly worth living on. In the living area, all-oak trim accents every wall, door frame, window and countertop. Rolland installed that himself. He also installed new carpet, new furniture, new wiring, new windows—well, new everything. Below deck got some attention as well. Two 90-gallon aluminum fuel tanks replaced the old steel ones, and another 87-gallon tank joined them. All that capacity is used for the new Mercury Horizon MPI main drive engines and Westerbeke generator. Rolland installed all that himself, too. After a nearly six-year remodel project, My Weakness III was finally complete.
My Weakness III
The Unimaginable Tragedy struck late December 2004, only two years after completing the remodel, when a freak ice and snow storm blasted the Midwest. In a few hours, nearly 22 inches of ice and snow fell, covering everything, including the marina where Rolland had stored his boat. Ultimately, the roof of the marina collapsed, causing major damage to My Weakness III and other boats, even sinking a few. The storm caused similar damage to other marinas along rivers and lakes from Louisville, Ky., to Cincinnati, Ohio.
My Weakness III
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“Damage to My Weakness III was extensive and almost resulted in scrapping the boat,” says Rolland. Eventually, marina owners were able to unbury Rolland’s boat. The damage was disheartening. All the upper deck railing and about half of the lower deck was destroyed, smashed by the collapsing ceiling. The bridge was dented in, the bimini top ripped off. The front deck roof overhang was bent down and split on the port side, and the aft deck hardtop was ripped off and sank. Rolland faced a bleak situation: he could scrap the boat and take the insurance check, leaving behind countless hours of loving work, or he could make repairs.
Back At It Again “With good cooperation and encouragement of our marina owner, I had my boat pulled and tackled the damages myself. In keeping with the original theme on the project, I wanted to improve the original engineering where it was needed to ultimately have a better boat.” Tackle the damages he did. Another year-and-a-half of dry dock and repairs later, and My Weakness III was again ready for the water. Some might wonder why put so much time and money into a boat. Why care so much? Why work so hard? You might tell them that it’s not just a boat; it’s my hobby, my passion, my home. Rolland might call it his weakness. The third one, to be exact. ■ WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM
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By Gary Kramer
This
White Eagle II
OLD BOAT Owner says, “I like unique.”
G
Gary and Sue DeVore had owned several houseboats so they knew what they wanted when they shopped for another one. But Gary likes unique and that complicated the buying process. So an online ad for a one-third size replica of an authentic sternwheel river boat immediately caught his eye. It had been listed for three years as part of an estate. The family didn’t want it because they knew it was “well used.” Eventually the DeVores drove six hours to see it, but were told there was an offer pending so they weren’t allowed to board. After pleading, they were allowed 20 minutes onboard and learned the engines didn’t work, there was a reported hull breach and it leaked badly. Regardless, the DeVores made an offer that was quickly accepted. They bought it because it had space, charm and uniqueness and because they had confidence they could restore it. And, Gary says, because it “doesn’t look like everything else.”
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Can Do Spirit Their confidence came from managing and owning children’s camps where they developed construction and administrative skills. Plus, they had rehabbed a couple of houses. Two days after they took possession, however, it rained. But after it stopped, it continued to “rain” inside the boat for another half hour. At that point, they questioned their decision. It was originally a crew boat with steel pontoons—4 feet wide and 5 feet deep—that were divided into five separate compartments. It had a farm tractor engine and a single paddlewheel. Then it was bought by a man who admired and studied riverboats. He had a full hull built between the pontoons in 1978 and constructed the rest as close to authentic as possible. The wide, flat hull was intended to be beached. It also is stout and flexible enough that it rises in ice rather than being crushed
so has been frozen-in during the winter ever since. That made the boat livable year-round, even in St. Paul, Minn. The hull is 55 feet long and measures 70 feet to the back of the paddles. It is 14 and a half feet wide and with the walkways, measures just over 20 feet. It holds 240 gallons of fuel, 40 gallons of water and has three holding tanks that total 120 gallons. And it is licensed to hold 45 passengers.
Inside Details The boat’s layout is a combination of classic riverboat style and modern living accommodations and amenities. Forward is a spacious, partially covered front deck. A sliding door leads into a 14- by 12-foot salon, complete with a wood burning stove, easy chairs, and a sectional couch that turns into a king size bed. It is one of five beds in the boat. A stairway leading to the second level separates the salon from the fully-equipped galley on the port side and a round oak antique table and buffet on the starboard side. Behind the dining area is a combination office and kid’s bedroom. It also houses HVAC equipment. A full bath with walk-in shower sits across the hallway and the guest bedroom is behind that on the port side. The engine/work/tool room is in the aft starboard corner. Twin 42hp Mercedes diesels set to run only at idle power the boat’s hydraulic system. Top speed is about 8 mph, burning just a gallon and a half an hour. Their original use was on refrigerated semi-trailers. They still run smoothly with over 6,000 hours because they have never been put under a load. They are used to build pressure that is hosed to hydraulic motors that turn large sprockets with chains that turn the bucket, or paddle frames. Each frame holds 16 five-anda-half-foot-long paddles that dip about 14 inches into the water. The boat’s overall draft is just 28 inches. Each bucket array is controlled by a separate joystick. By forwarding one and reversing the other, the boat can turn 180 degrees in almost its own length. It is sensitive to wind, but Gary says they have learned that by opening the windows, “It goes from being a big sail to a piece of Swiss cheese.”
Up Top On the second level, the pilot house is nostalgic in its décor and details. There are windows all around and the front one lowers down for more ventilation. A large wooden-spoked wheel dominates the re-built helm station, which is about the only thing the DeVores have not built themselves. The wheel controls two rudders for going forward and two much larger monkey rudders for reversing. A large bell on the bow is controlled from the helm and so is a large set of Kahlenberg air horns that came from a train. This boat can be heard long before it is seen. The raised liar’s bench is a favorite spot for passengers who almost feel compelled to spin yarns while sitting there. It also converts to a full bed so is a preferred sleeping spot. Part of the back section of the upper level is now the master bedroom with another full bathroom. Beyond that is a screened-in porch with a door that leads to the back deck overlooking the paddles. Gary says passengers are drawn to the turning paddles. There is just a low hum from the engines so the sound of the water off the paddles and their motion becomes mesmerizing, he says.
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Looking Back That is what the boat is now. But that is a long way from where it was when they bought it. The non-running engines were simply, and luckily for them, flooded with fuel so they gave the impression of being locked-up. A little research revealed the hull breach had been repaired several years earlier. So in short order, their major mechanical problems were easily resolved. But the leaks were real, widespread and constant. They were so pervasive that Sue laughingly says for a while their plan was, “Whatever leaks next, we fix.” Eventually, the pilot house got new rubber roofing and the second deck roof’s rubberized coating was refreshed. Beyond that, there were problems everywhere. Their solution was to gut the boat room by room and start over. There was significant wood rot so they re-framed where necessary. They insulated heavily and put in insulated windows. A new furnace and AC system had been installed earlier, but they replaced all the plumbing and wiring. They paneled both the inside and outside with exterior plywood. While re-wiring the pilot station, they pulled out hundreds of feet of old wire after spending considerable time trying to figure out its purpose and destination. There were no windows, just shutters, so they installed insulated window units.
Sagging Issues They also discovered that a structural floor member had been cut, causing the pilot house to sag three inches into the lower deck. To solve that, they had to remove the entire ceiling on the main deck, jack up the second deck and install a series of engineered beams. They insulated the ceiling so when the temperature really plunges, they drain the upper bath, close an insulated hatch at the top of the stairs and live on the main deck. As an illustration of the boat’s condition, there were seven marine radios onboard and none of them worked. The DeVores spent four years working and mostly living on the boat in St. Paul, Minn. Along the way there were the expected problems and numerous unexpected ones, like when the holding tank sprung a leak directly on Gary’s chest. He had drilled a 5/8-inch hole in the upper section to relieve what he thought was an air lock. Instead, a 5/8-inch stream of waste shot out and continued until they had filled four, 5 gallon buckets. After more dirty work, he ended up cutting the ends off the old, built-in tank and put a new polyethylene tank inside. In 2013 they moved the boat down the Mississippi River in a memorable trip to Sabula, Iowa. They now commute between the boat and another unique restoration project they have in Pennsylvania. (See www.lynnhall-restoration.com.) Even though they thoroughly enjoy being on the boat in all seasons and use it as a Midwest base where they have family, they now have the White Eagle II listed for sale. That is partly due to the demands of time and finances needed for the Lynn Hall project. But it is also partly due to their tendency to constantly look for other restoration projects. Gary says Sue points out that he is “always one too many project ideas ahead.” Even Sue says, “There are always other boats out there.” Like the old steel hull on shore at their marina Gary keeps looking at and thinking he could make into the boat of his dreams. 26
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This
OLD BOAT
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Special Offers Available with Listing Contract
2006 Lakeview 16x76 $239,000
1990 Sumerset 16x68 $115,000
1996 Larson Cabrio 310 $27,500
2002 Sumerset 16x68 $174,900
2011 Thoroughbred 21x103 $739,000
2003 Regal Commodore 3860 $144,000
REMODELED 1988 Stardust 16x64 $84,900
2005 Sharpe 16x84 248,500
2000 Playcraft 20ft Pontoon $6,995
2005 Sumerset 16x68 $195,900
1999 Lakeview 15x60 $129,900
2009 Thoroughbred 21x95 $595,000
1996 Lakeview 16x65 $119,000
2004 Sea Ray 390 Motor Yacht $199,000
1982 Sumerset 14x55 $49,990
2008 Thoroughbred 16x75 $259,900
2004 Sharpe 20x112 $495,000
1997 Lakeview 15x68 $144,900
2004 Sumerset 16x75 $229,000
1994 Rinker Fiesta Vee 265 $9,995
Check out our website for complete listings
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2001 Lakeview 16x69 $185,900
2005 Fantasy 19x90 $379,900
1997 Carver 41ft $63,900
1999 Lakeview 14x57 Widebody $119,000
1997 Stardust 16x77 $169,000
1974 Sumerset 12x50 $17,900
1994 Jamestowner 14x55 $87,500
2001 Sumerset 16x75 $199,500
1988 Sumerset 14x60 $79,000
2010 Thoroughbred 18x80 $359,000
2000 Regal Commodore 4160 $117,500
1996 Stardust 16x73 $149,000
Harbor Cottage 932 sq ft $189,900
1997 Sumerset 20x74 REDUCED $149,000
2002 Lakeview 16x70 $187,500
1999 Sumerset 16x75 $155,900
2004 Horizon 18x90 $335,000
NEW LISTING 2002 Stardust 16x58 $157,900
1997 Stardust 16x82 REDUCED BY $10,000 $159,900
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2008 Sharpe 16 x 75 WB Tennessee River- Knoxville, TN $279,000
2009 Stardust 20 x 115WB Norris Lake, TN $875,000
1995 Stardust 20 x 95 WB Norris Lake, TN SOLD!
2005 Sunstar 17 x 84 WB Norris Lake, TN $259,000
2010 Sailabration 18 x 80 WB Norris Lake, TN $259,900
2004 Sharpe 16 x 81 WB Norris Lake, TN $244,900
2003 Sumerset 16 x 75 WB Norris Lake, TN - Coming Soon!
30 x 60 Floating House Under 60 x 100 Cover Norris Lake, TN $169,000
2004 Horizon 16 x 65 WB Norris Lake, TN $165,000
2006 Country Coach 530 Intrigue 400HP Cummins Diesel (16K Miles) $160,000
2001 Fantasy 16 x 69 WB Norris Lake, TN $159,900
2 Story 20 x 28 Floating Cottage (1,100sqft) Norris Lake, TN SOLD!
2010 Lakeview 16 x 68 WB Norris Lake, TN $135,000
1999 Lakeview 16 x 75 WB Norris Lake, TN $135,000
1996 Norris Yacht 16 x 72 WB Norris Lake, TN $125,000
2000 Lakeview 15 x 62 WB Tennessee River, TN $125,000
2002 Sumerset 20 x 100 WB Norris Lake, TN SOLD!
1992 Sumerset 14 x 66 WB Norris Lake, TN - Sale Pending!
TM
2012 Majestic 18 x 75 WB Norris Lake, TN $225,000
24 x 36 Floating Cottage (1088sqft) Norris Lake, TN $111,500
20 x 37 Floating Cottage (740sqft) Norris Lake, TN $110,000
16 x 40 Floating Cottage (640sqft) Norris Lake, TN $100,000
1990 Sumerset 16 x 70 Norris Lake, TN SOLD!
20 x 37 Floating Cottage (740sqft) Norris Lake, TN SOLD!
1978 Sumerset 14 x 68 Norris Lake, TN $89,990
1994 Lakeview 15 x 67 WB Norris Lake, TN SOLD!
20 x 31 Floating Cottage (620sqft) Norris Lake, TN Sale Pending!
1989 Jamestowner 14 x 70 Carr Fork Lake, KY $87,500
1994 Lakeview 14 x 65 WB Norris Lake, TN SOLD!
20 x 37 Floating Cottage (740sqft) Norris Lake, TN SOLD!
1985 Waterhouse 14 x 56 Norris Lake, TN $59,900
1993 SolidCraft 15 x 55 Norris Lake, TN - Coming Soon!
2 Story 16 x 32 Floating Cottage (612sqft) Norris Lake, TN $35,900
2014 Manitou 230 Oasis Tritoon Norris Lake, TN $34,900
w/150HP Yamaha 4-Stroke
1978 Sumerset 14 x 68 Norris Lake, TN $59,900
2008 Floating Cottage 12 x 36 (432sqft) Near Lake Cumberland, KY $54,900
w/250HP Evinrude HO 2009 Triton 20X3 Pro Elite Norris Lake, TN $32,500
2010 Suntracker 32 Party Cruiser Norris Lake, TN SOLD!
w/150HP Yamaha 4-Stroke 2010 Premier 220 Sunsation LTD PTX Tritoon Norris Lake, TN $32,900
w/250HP Evinrude Etec 2007 Manitou Legacy Tritoon Norris Lake, TN $31,900
16 x 40 Floating Cottage (640sqft) Norris Lake, TN SOLD!
2012 Rinker MTX 220 Norris Lake, TN $22,500
2002 Four Winns 234 Fun Ship Norris Lake, TN $22,500
1975 Crest 12’6” x 35’ Norris Lake, TN $12,000
1999 SeaRay 210 SunDeck Norris Lake, TN $13,500
1967 Stardust 11 x 40 (Steel) Norris Lake, TN SOLD!
(Steel)/Floating Home 1977 Captains Craft 15 x 43 Norris Lake, TN $13,500
14,000lb Econo Boat Lift Norris Lake, TN $8,500
2001 SeaRay 180BR Norris Lake, TN $8,900
1960 Glastron 15 Surflite Norris Lake, TN $7,500
1972 Lakeland 12 x 32 Norris Lake, TN $2,500
866-942-0885
1986 Gibson 14’ x 50’ $59,900
2003 Sumerset 16’ x 75’ $229,900
2001 Stardust 16’ x 84’ $170,000
1999 Sumerset 18’ x 80’ $244,000
2002 Fantasy Custom Yacht 16’ x 80’ $229,000
2009 Horizon 18’ x 68’ $249,000
1977 Sumerset 14’ x 58’ $21,900
2005 Sumerset 18’ x 85’ $350,000
1986 Waterhouse 14’ x 58’ $64,500
2001 Sharpe 17.5’ x 84’ $249,000
1987 Jamestowner 14’ x 58’ $59,900
1988 Jamestowner 14’ x 70’ $76,000
1973 Carl Craft 12’ x 35’ $19,000
1980 Gibson 14’ x 50’ $58,000
2010 Horizon 16’ x 80’ $299,000
2003 Majestic 14’ x 48’ $99,500
2006 Fantasy 18’ x 65’ $260,000
1996 Stardust 16’ x 80’ $199,900
1996 Sunstar 14’ x 58’ $91,900
2006 Horizon 18’ x 92’ $399,000
2002 Horizon 18.6’ x 90’ $275,000
1999 Stardust 18’ x 84’ $197,500
1986 Stardust 14’ x 60’ $49,500
2008 Fantasy 19’ x 90’ $515,000
1996 Sunstar 14’ x 58’ $91,900
Main Office, Conley Bottom, 606-340-8652
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1974 Watercraft 14’ x 47’ $29,900
1972 Captain’s Craft 34’ $10,000
2008 Stardust 18’ x 75’ $299,000
1993 Sumerset 16’ x 72.3’ $135,000
2004 Sunstar 17.5’ x 82’ $269,000
“More than anything else, we want the boat that’s Terry Miller best for you.”
2003 Sharpe 16’ x 86’ $259,000
1991 Sumerset 14’ x 66’ $92,900
2000 Sharpe 16’ x 74’ $189,652
1986 Sumerset 14’ x 60’ $75,000
2004 Starlite 15’ x 67’ $220,000
1998 Horizon 17’ x 64’ $95,000 2001 Myacht 13’ x 43’ $39,000
2004 Lakeview 16’ x 68’ $189,900
2005 Majestic 16’ x 80’ $135,000
1997 Stardust 18’ x 85’ $174,700
2001 Norris Yacht 18’ x 85’ $229,000
1995 Stardust 16’ x 72’ $109,900
1990 Gibson 50’ Standard $52,900
2007 Sunstar 17’ x 75’ $249,000
2000 Sumerset 18’ x 80’ $198,000
1996-2013 Catamaran Cruiser 12’ x 35’ $39,000
1998 Stardust 16’ x 78’ $199,500
1991 Gibson Executive 14’ x 50’ $68,500
2000 Sunstar 16’ x 49’ $125,000
1997 Sunstar 18’ x 84’ $189,000
1995 Stardust 16’ x 68’ $104,900
2003 Fantasy 16’ x 80’ $235,000
Mississippi Dale Shepherd • 601-260-4745
Center Hill Lake Knoxville Pat Riley • 931-260-2662 Tom Whitaker • 901-569-5095 Phil/Cathy Heneger • 615-397-0297 Melonie Whitaker • 865-250-0888
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Laurel Lake Ceysha Clark • 606-669-9515
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Is this the year you turn your passion into a career? Join our Broker sales team on your lake, USA. Phone 606-305-7049 or E-mail boatwings@yahoo.com to learn more.
1977 Sumerset 14’ x 58’ $42,500
2003 Fantasy Atlantis 16’ x 75’ $189,999
Located at State Dock on Beautiful Lake Cumberland Kentucky
1981 14x52 Jamestowner $29,000
2011 19.5x97 Thoroughbred $689,000
2001 16x76 Stardust $204000
2002 16x77 Lakeview $189000
2003 18x80 Horizon $239,000
2008 20x105 Fantasy $599000
1989 14x53 Seebreeze $68000
2000 18x83 Jamestowner $199000
1991 16x72 Stardust $74000
2002 17x85 Sharpe $235000
2000 16x76 Lakeview $159900
2005 19x90 Fantasy $339000
2012 17x80 Sunstar $369900
1992 16x74 Stardust $155000
1992 16x62 Jamestowner $115,000
1988 16x65 Stardust $72,500
1998 16x80 Jamestowner $119999
2001 16x71 Sharpe $184,000
1990 16x72 Sumerset $109900
2007 22x104 Sumerset $595000
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2008 20’x100 Sunstar Loaded!!!! $489,000
PRICE REDUCED
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1998 16’x77’ Stardust 5 State Rooms!! $140,000
2003 20’x97’ Sunstar All The Goodies $365,000
1977 12’x58’ Sumerset Complete referb $32,500
UPDATED FLOORING 1999 17’x85’ Fantasy Recently updated $289,000
2006 17’x85’ Sunstar Like New $269,000
2006 18’x75’ Sunstar In like new condition $299,000
2002 18’x81’ Sumerset Lots of updates $239,000
SOLD 2005 19’x90’ Sunstar Must see!! $329,000
1992 14’ x 64’ Sumerset Lots of Updates $112,500
PRICE REDUCED
PRICE REDUCED 2013 17.5’x71’ Sunstar Coastal Must See!! $379,000
1989 16’ x 65’ Sumerset Twin 4 Cylinder Volvos $72,500
2002 20’x94’ Sunstar Deisels, loaded $365,000
2006 16’6”x60’ Sunstar Loaded and in like-new condition $199,000
SOLD 1987 16’x70’ Stardust Excellent condition $115,000
2011 20’x90’ Horizon Awesome layout! $495,000
PRICE REDUCED
1993 16’x65’ Stardust New A/C & Gen $140,000
1984 14’x70’ Sumerset $54,500
2007 Custom Pontoon Houseboat Great Starter Boat $59,000
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Interior By Design
Fun ways to decorate your houseboat By Nicole LoCicero
Whether you are using it as a vacation home or call it your permanent residence, having a houseboat is a luxury. For those who love the water, it really doesn’t get much better than this. You also have the opportunity to decorate this unique space, and it is important to make your houseboat feel like home. But you should have some fun and take some risks with your decorating. A houseboat is already an unconventional living space, so you might as well take advantage of this opportunity to get creative with your décor as well.
Play Up Your Nautical Surroundings
While it may seem a little cliché at first, incorporating a nautical theme into your space is a natural choice. However, you can do this in a way that is subtle and classy. Decorate with vintage pieces like a wooden steering wheel from an old ship, boat oars or maps. Incorporate nautical rope into your design as well. This can be done by simply putting some of it in a glass vase or jar, or you can even find furniture like ottomans and side tables that are wrapped with nautical rope. Don’t forget about the natural elements that surround you as well. Seashells and starfish are always a nice touch to include when you are living on the water. 36
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ADVERTISER
WEB ADDRESS
28, 29 Buyaboat.net
www.buyaboat.net
11
Dreams in Motion
www.dreammachinesint.com
34
Elite Boat Sales
www.eliteboatsales.net
32, 33 Houseboats buy Terry
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6
HydraNautics
www.thrusterman.com
11
Infinity Fabrics
www.infinitylwv.com
9
Stardust Cruisers
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3
State Dock Marine Ventures, LLC www.statedock.com
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Sumerset Houseboats
www.sumerset.com
13
Sunstar Houseboats, Inc.
www.sunstarhouseboats.com
35
Sunstar Yacht Sales & Brokerage www.sunstaryacht.com
2
Thoroughbred Houseboats
www.tbboats.com
40
Trifecta Ventures, LLC
www.tbboats.com
12
United Marine Underwriters
www.unitedmarine.net
13
Wilson Pontoons, Inc.
www.plasticpontoon.com
30, 31 Your New Boat.Com
Houseboat for sale
Pluckebaum 67X18’ Liveaboard $200,000 Please email lwebase@juno.com for more information or call 815-476-6462
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your guests! You could also incorporate a fun accent tile in your bathrooms. From yellow glass mosaic tiles to blue tiles featuring a floral pattern, there are plenty of options available that are sure to make a statement in your houseboat.
Embrace The Water
When you are living on the water, the reality is that things inside are going to get wet. You might as well accept this fact and embrace the water. When possible, use fabrics that are easy to wipe, like vinyl. Fortunately for you, there are many durable fabrics available today in all of your favorite patterns, so you don’t have to skimp on style just because you are being practical. This will save you from worrying about all of your furnishings getting ruined. Additionally, use wood that has been waterproofed to prevent it from warping and rotting. You can still decorate with as much wood as you want, as long as you take the necessary precautions to keep it looking great.
Get Creative With Your Storage
Go Bold & Modern
A modern houseboat with clean lines and minimal décor is a refreshing addition to the water. Give the exterior of your houseboat a modern refresh by taking a simplistic approach with materials like wood and metal. Incorporate a modern look on the inside of your houseboat as well by using neutral colors and keeping things simple. Purchase a sleek sofa for the living room and consider having open shelving in the kitchen. Modern design focuses on form over function, so let the structure of your houseboat speak for itself.
Make It Luxurious
Just because you are living on the water doesn’t mean you cannot enjoy the finer things that many traditional homes have to offer. Splurge on your bathroom and make it a real retreat, since you are already in the most perfect location to relax. Go ahead and install a gourmet kitchen too if your budget allows for it. Everyone always wants to hang out on a houseboat, so give yourself a galley that is fully equipped for some great entertaining.
Bring Some Greenery To The Water
Even though a houseboat immerses you within nature, the one thing missing is green space. Fortunately, you don’t have to go without. Simply bring your own greenery to the water. Flower boxes under the windows add a pop of color to the exterior of your houseboat and make it look cozy. You can also add potted plants and trees to your entryway and outdoor entertaining areas to soften things up. You could even start your own potted garden out on the deck.
Make Color Your Friend
A houseboat is already a unique living situation, so you might as well get creative with your décor too. Add a pop of color to your kitchen with red kitchen cabinets. Now that will get the attention of 38
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One of the downsides to living on a houseboat is the lack of storage space available in many of them. Whether you are making this your permanent home or just using it as a vacation spot, people come with a lot of baggage— literally. However, a few innovative design decisions can help you get the extra storage space that you need. Decorate with benches, side tables and ottomans that can all open up and be used to store items. You can even add some extra drawers under the beds to take advantage of what is usually wasted space. If you get a little creative, you can find ways to have plenty of storage space in your houseboat.
Soak It Up
Since you are lucky enough to be living on a houseboat, you should embrace and enjoy the beauty of it all. The best accessory to any place is a happy homeowner! ■
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Nicole LoCicero is a decorator, homemaker and mother living in Raleigh, NC. Her love of the ocean drove her to open www.BeachDecorShop.com. Interior By Design is a recurring column in Houseboat magazine.
Christmas Cuisine Maple Ham Recipe by Colleen Criswell Ingredients: 1 (4 lb.) boneless ham 1 (8 oz.) can pineapple slices in syrup 10 whole cloves 2 cups water 1 cup maple syrup 1/4 cup brown sugar 2 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons butter Directions: Preheat oven to 350 °F and poke ham with a fork, before sticking the pineapple slices on the ham with toothpicks. Press the cloves into the ham and place in baking dish with water. Melt the butter on low heat and stir in the syrup, brown sugar, and honey until hot. Pour half the mix over the ham and bake for an hour and a half, frequently basting with the remaining mix. Pull ham from the oven, stir pan drippings in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened, and serve with ham. Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe by Cathy M Ingredients: 4 russet potatoes (cut in 1/4 inch slices) 1 onion (sliced into rings) salt and pepper to taste 3 tablespoons butter 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 cups milk 1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese Directions: Preheat oven to 400 °F, butter a 1-quart casserole dish, and layer half of the potatoes inside. Next layer the onion slices, then top with the remaining potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Melt butter over medium heat, add the flour and salt, and whisk for one minute. Stir in milk and cook until mixture has thickened, then add cheese all at once and continue stirring until it has melted, about a minute. Pour cheese over the potatoes, cover the dish with aluminum foil, and bake 1 1/2 hours.
Eggnog Recipe by Denise Ingredients: 6 eggs 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 quart milk 1/3 pint heavy whipping cream 1 pinch ground nutmeg 1 pinch salt Directions: Whisk the eggs, then mix in the condensed milk, vanilla, quart of milk and salt. Beat the whipping cream until peaks form, then fold into the mixture and sprinkle with nutmeg. Serve cold.
Candied Pecans Recipe by Alix Ingredients: 1 cup white sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon salt 1 egg white 1 tablespoon water 1 pound pecan halves Directions: Preheat the oven to 250 °F and mix the cinnamon, sugar and salt together in a bowl. In another bowl, whisk the egg white and water until frothy and toss in the pecans. Add the sugar mix and stir until pecans are nicely coated. Spread pecans onto a baking sheet and bake for an hour, stirring every 15 minutes, until they’re evenly browned. ■
These recipes are shared at Allrecipes.com. Check out more on our Pinterest page! (www.pinterest.com/houseboatmag) WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM
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