GLEN JUSTICE

Sitting in a sea of sleek powerboats, this Harbor Homes Houseboat, sold by Bay Yacht Agency, certainly stood out. Step aboard and any antiquated notions one may have about houseboats is blown away with the breeze.

The large model on display was 55 feet long, with a beam of 15 feet 6 inches, and is capable of traveling at 11 knots, thanks to twin Mercury outboards at the stern. We did not get the chance to try one on the water, but the fact that they can be moved at all allows the owner to change location and trade out your old neighbors for new ones – more than you can do with a stick-built house.

Inside, it is a home – porch, a large modern kitchen, two bedrooms, two full bathroons, a glassed-in sun room and spiral stairs leading to a rooftop sundeck. The price for the boat on display was about $340,000, which includes everything (smaller models are cheaper). And, just like a home, you can choose everything, from the exterior color to the wood in the kitchen.

Though not for everybody, modern houseboats offer a compelling option for those who want a waterfront home or office with more space than a traditional vessel can provide. Take a look...

GLEN JUSTICE

GLEN JUSTICE

GLEN JUSTICE