Exploring the Fascinating World of Permanently Living on a Boat

For many, the idea of permanently living on a boat in a lake is a foreign concept. However, there are various reasons why someone might prefer to adopt this unique lifestyle. This article aims to shed light on what it's truly like to live permanently on a houseboat or sailboat in a lake, drawing from personal experiences and insights.

Traditional Houseboat Living

During my high school days, I knew a couple who chose to live in a houseboat, not by choice, but by necessity. The lady, Mrs. Jessie, was living in a houseboat on the bayou in the 1970s. Accessible by a road nearby, they had both power and water, with the sewage system dumping directly into the bayou. Chickens were kept in a fenced yard, and they had a porch where Mrs. Jessie could easily cast a line to catch fish. Despite the absence of modern conveniences like proper sanitation, they managed a comfortable life in this serenely natural setting.

Weekend Escapes and Houseboat Camping

We, too, owned a houseboat, albeit more akin to camping than living. Our experience was simpler and more rudimentary, lacking modern amenities such as power and water. We relied on campsite lanterns and ice chests for lighting and preserving perishables. We would spend weekends on the water, enjoying the fresh air and natural surroundings, much like camping.

Full-Time Sailboat Living: The Ultimate in Memories and Adventures

One of the most memorable experiences I have was living on a sailboat in a Los Angeles marina for years in the early 1960s. My 30-foot schooner sailboat was a sanctuary. While I could live even more cheaply by anchoring and fishing, I chose to have power and amenities, such as a cabin and small galley with a propane stove and icebox. A large water tank was utilized for the small sink—cold water only. There was a small head with a port-a-potty solution.

The house was complemented by a 22-foot sailboat with a similar setup. Together, we would sail to Catalina Island and make a nominal fee by taking groups of visitors on short excursions. We made significant income this way, keeping the lifestyle incredibly cheap. This was a time when life was simple and fulfilling.

Witnessing the Benefits of a Self-Steering Sailboat

During the 1960s, I developed a sail self-steering mechanism for my sailboats, which revolutionized life at sea. Being self-steering, my boat allowed me to sail longer distances with minimal crew, relying only on the wind. I invented this system in 1965 and it proved invaluable for long voyages, including a 5.5-month stint in a marina in Hawaii and a trip to Australia.

The key advantage of a self-steering sailboat is the ability to sail in almost any direction, including against the wind. This system involves rotating cylinders, much like the Anton Flettner Wind Ship, which can drive the boat directly upwind or even backwards. These systems are far superior to traditional sails, and I detail these concepts in my new book "Prosperity from a Pittance." My boats needed minimal maintenance, with few issues aside from occasionally cleaning the spark plug and occasionally replacing zinc blocks to protect the hull.

Cheaper and Quieter Living Aboard a Boat

Living on a houseboat or sailboat in a lake or harbor was not only economical but also provided entertainment and a simpler life. I could easily venture out for fishing, and the solitude provided a certain level of peace and contentment. My boats safely survived two major tsunamis and three hurricanes, proving the stability and resilience of these living arrangements.

Conclusion

Living permanently on a boat in a lake offers a unique and fulfilling lifestyle. Whether it is traditional houseboat living, weekend escapes, long-term sailing adventures, or self-steering sailboats, there are numerous benefits to embracing this unconventional way of life. From the financial savings to the tranquility and freedom it provides, this lifestyle is worth considering for anyone seeking a simpler, more fulfilling life.