Thinking about buying a houseboat? Here’s what you should know.
From compact, trailerable houseboats perfect for weekend escapes to fully equipped floating homes designed for long-term living, the world of houseboats is as diverse as the waterways they explore. Designs range from sleek modern builds with solar power and full kitchens to rustic-style vessels ideal for peaceful river cruising. Choosing the right houseboat depends on your lifestyle goals – whether you’re after tranquil getaways, off-grid living, or an investment in unique waterfront accommodation. Below is a breakdown of the main types of houseboats, covering key considerations like comfort, mobility, maintenance, and cost.
Types of Houseboats: Choosing the Right Fit
Houseboats generally fall into one of three categories: Smaller/Trailerable boats, large cruiser-style, and floating homes.
Each is designed for a different lifestyle. Understanding the key differences can help you choose the perfect setup for your needs on the water.
Smaller Portable Houseboats
Trailerable
Best for: Casual weekenders, fishing trips, or exploring different locations
General size: 5m – 9m
Features: Compact, and road-legal for towing; typically includes a small cabin and basic amenities.
Engine: 15–75HP (single outboard)
Price range: $25,000 to $80,000+
Popular brands: Boatahome, Cara Boat, Nexgen boats
Large Houseboats
Luxury cruisers
Best for: Travelling long distances, multi-day or even weeks-long travel
General size: 9m – 21m
Features: Built for travel; full kitchen, bathrooms, multiple cabins, navigation/entertainment stations & more
Engine: 150 – 500+ HP (inboard or twin outboards)
Price range: $55,000 to $550,000+
Popular brands: Nomad Houseboats, The Houseboat Factory, Stardust Cruisers
Floating Homes
Non-motorised
Best for: Permanent or semi-permanent mooring in marinas or calm bays
General size: 12m – 24m+
Features:Essentially a house on the water with residential-level comfort, typically without engines.
Price range: $65,000 to $420,000+
Popular brands: Eco Floating Homes, Adria, Waterside Living, FLOAT
Beyond boats, the inflatable world also includes kayaks, stand up paddle boards, and pontoons — each offering unique ways to explore the water.
Before You Buy: Key Considerations
Buying a houseboat is a major investment, and the right choice depends heavily on how you plan to use it. Here’s what to consider to avoid buyer’s remorse:
- Primary Use: Are you buying for full-time living, weekend escapes, river cruising, or short-term rentals? Your intended lifestyle will shape the ideal size, layout, and features.
- Material Type: Aluminium and fibreglass are common materials—fibreglass offers smoother finishes and insulation, while aluminium is lighter and often easier to maintain.
- Mobility vs Mooring: Decide whether you want a stationary floating home (moored) or a motorised houseboat capable of navigating rivers or estuaries. This impacts engine needs, design, and licensing.
- Size & Layout: Consider how many people will regularly be onboard and what you need in terms of sleeping areas, kitchen, bathrooms, and entertaining space.
- Budget: our budget should include the vessel itself, engine(s), fit-out (if needed), insurance, mooring fees, and long-term maintenance.
Don’t Forget About Accessories
Owning any type of boat has added costs in the form of accessories – Generally the bigger the boat, the more you require or want. Below are different areas of consideration.
Safety Essentials: Life Jackets, Fire Extinguishers, First Aid, Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Detectors, EPIRB or Marine Radio (VHF), Safety Ring/Cushion etc.
Mooring and Power: Anchor & Rope, Dock Lines & Fenders, Shore Power Connections, Battery Bank + Inverter, Solar Panels, etc.
Comfort & Living Essentials: Water Tank + Pump System, Sewage System, Cooking Appliances, Fridge/Freezer , Heating/Cooling etc.
Navigation & Utility: Depth Sounder/Fish Finder, GPS or Chartplotter, Spotlights or Deck Lighting, Tool Kit + Spare Parts etc.
Lifestyle & Entertainment: Outdoor Furniture/Deck Seating, TV/Sound System, Storage Solutions, BBQ, Water Toys etc.
Maintenance & Care Tips for Houseboats
Houseboats are floating homes, and like any vessel, they need regular care to stay safe and comfortable. Whether moored full-time or cruising on weekends, proper upkeep—like engine checks, hull cleaning, and system monitoring—protects your investment and keeps things running smoothly.
Inspect and Maintain the Hull
Regularly check for cracks, blisters, or corrosion (especially on aluminium or fibreglass). Clean the hull to prevent algae, barnacle build up, and damage from prolonged water exposure.
Service the Engine and Mechanical Systems
Follow a routine maintenance schedule for inboard/outboard motors. This includes oil changes, fuel system checks, and inspecting belts, hoses, and filters—especially before long trips.
Check Electrical and Battery Systems
Test onboard batteries, wiring, and connections often. Ensure your solar panels (if equipped), inverter, and shore power systems are operating correctly and safely.
Maintain Plumbing and Waste Systems
Flush and clean freshwater tanks, greywater, and blackwater systems regularly. Use marine-safe cleaning agents and check for leaks or clogs to avoid bad smells or system failures.
Inspect Safety Gear and Emergency Equipment
Routinely check life jackets, fire extinguishers, smoke/CO detectors, navigation lights, and radios. Replace expired gear and ensure everything is easily accessible.
Wash, Clean & Protect
Regularly wash and clean both the exterior and interior of your houseboat to prevent salt, grime, and mildew build up. Apply protective treatments like wax, UV sprays, and corrosion inhibitors to preserve surfaces and extend the life of your vessel.
Warranty & Brand Reputation
Not all houseboats are built to the same standard—even if they look alike. Trusted brands often offer longer warranties and stronger after-sales support, versus the unknown.
As with most things, you get what you pay for—so it’s crucial to understand what’s included in the warranty. Pay close attention to the following items as a minimum:
– Hull construction: Fibreglass and aluminium may have different coverage; check for osmosis or weld guarantees.
– Engine and systems: Ensure the motor and key systems like plumbing and electrics are backed by recognised manufacturers.
– Seals, windows & fittings: Water intrusion often starts here; reputable brands usually offer better protection.
A reliable brand with solid warranty support can save you thousands in the long run.
The Smart Way to Buy a Houseboat
Buying a houseboat isn’t just about size or style—it’s about how you want to enjoy being on the water. Whether you’re chasing lazy weekends on the river, setting up a floating escape, or planning to live aboard full-time, the right boat should feel like it was built for your life. Think beyond the brochure: consider where you’ll moor, how often you’ll cruise, and what comforts you can’t live without. A well-chosen houseboat blends freedom, function, and lifestyle—and when you get it right, there’s nothing else like it.
FAQs
Do I need a license to drive a houseboat in Australia?
Yes, in most states a recreational boat licence is required to operate a motorised houseboat. Some hire boats are licence-free, but for ownership, you’ll likely need one—especially if the vessel exceeds a certain speed or engine size. Check with your state’s maritime authority.
Can I live on a houseboat full-time?
Yes, but it depends on where you plan to moor. Some marinas and local councils allow permanent liveaboard status, while others have restrictions or time limits. Always check mooring laws and zoning regulations in your area before buying.
Where can I keep a houseboat?
You can moor a houseboat at a marina, on a private mooring, or along approved riverbanks. Mooring availability, costs, and approvals vary greatly depending on location—especially in high-demand areas like Sydney Harbour, the Gold Coast, or the Murray River.
How much maintenance does a houseboat require?
Regular maintenance includes hull cleaning, engine servicing, plumbing checks, and electrical upkeep. Floating homes also need attention to ventilation, seals, and interior moisture control. Annual haul-outs may be needed depending on hull type and location.
See our maintenance section above for more detail.
Do houseboats hold their value?
Well-maintained houseboats from reputable brands hold value relatively well, especially in popular boating regions. However, like caravans and RVs, depreciation can occur—particularly with lesser-known or DIY builds lacking documentation or compliance.
What are the running costs of owning a houseboat?
ypical costs include mooring fees, insurance, registration, fuel (if motorised), maintenance, and utilities like gas, water, and electricity. Costs vary based on size, location, and usage, but planning for $5,000–$15,000+ per year is a reasonable starting point.
Is it easy to finance a houseboat?
Financing a houseboat in Australia can indeed be challenging due to its unique classification—it doesn’t neatly fit into traditional categories like homes or vehicles. While some marine finance specialists and personal loan providers may offer options, they often require higher deposits, shorter terms, and come with stricter conditions—especially for older or custom-built boats. If you own property, using home equity may be a more flexible alternative.
Speak to a finance broker to understand options.