A shipping container houseboat is designed primarily as living quarters on the water. Just like any conventional house, you can also equip it with house-like features such as bathrooms, kitchens, and sleeping quarters.
It is a vessel built or modified to serve primarily as a residence rather than simply as a means of transportation. In other words, the boat and container is generally less seaworthy and are intended for enclosed waters such as lakes and rivers.
To know the pros, cons, and key features of a shipping container houseboat, read this article until the end!
Contents
Pros and Cons of Living in a Shipping Container Houseboat
Pros
- Lower cost of living: Less yard maintenance means you won’t have to worry about shoveling snow or mowing the lawn. You can also expect lower utility costs due to the square footage, which can appeal to people looking to downsize their homes.
- Beautiful views: You can’t get much closer to living by the water. Houseboat living offers the possibility of a beautiful lake or river view every day when you wake up and go to bed.
- Water activities: Depending on the season and local regulations, you may be able to fish, canoe, and enjoy all the perks of living on the water without having to take the extra time to vacation.
- Eco-Friendly and Sustainable: Reusing decommissioned shipping containers leaves a small environmental footprint, especially if moored rather than built on land
- Cost-Effective Housing Option: Building a shipping container houseboat is cheaper than building a traditional house or yacht. Basic builds can cost less than land-based tiny homes
- Strong and Durable Structure: Shipping containers are made from corten steel, designed to handle harsh weather and heavy loads. They can withstand long-term outdoor exposure if maintained.
- Off-Grid Living Potential: The shipping container houseboat is easily outfitted with solar panels, battery storage, and greywater filtration.
- Mobile or Relocatable: You can design your shipping container houseboat to float and move between moorings or docks. This is great for areas with temporary water access or changing regulations.
- Great for Business or Rentals: The eye-catching design makes it perfect for Airbnb-style vacation rentals, floating cafés, studios, and eco-tourism pods.
Cons
- Corrosion and Rust Risk: Saltwater exposure accelerates deterioration if not properly protected. Therefore, it requires marine-grade paint, sealants, and regular maintenance.
- Limited Interior Space: A standard 20’ or 40’ container is only 8 ft wide, which makes the interior feel narrow. This limitation requires you to be creative with layouts or add outdoor decks to feel livable.
- Thermal Conductivity: Steel conducts heat and cold. Without proper insulation, the interior can become hot like an oven in the sun and freezing during the winter. Insulate your shipping container boathouse with spray foam or rigid insulation and vapor barriers to maintain comfort.
- Floatation and Balance Engineering: Containers are not designed to float, so you must design and build a stable floating platform (pontoons, barrels, or hull). While doing so, you have to make sure that the weight is distributed evenly. Improper balance is unsafe or can damage the container.
- Complex Utilities and Systems: Off-grid systems for water, power, and sewage are harder to install and maintain. You will need solar panels, battery storage, greywater or blackwater tanks, and marine plumbing. However, these systems add cost and require expertise.
- Regulatory & Zoning Issues: Many cities or marinas do not have clear regulations for floating container homes. Permits may be difficult to obtain for mooring, long-term residential use, and wastewater discharge.
Key Features of a Shipping Container Houseboat
1. Flotation System
The flotation system ensures the structure floats safely and evenly. Shipping container houseboats’ common flotation bases are pontoons, plastic or steel barrels, concrete rafts, and custom boat hulls.
2. Reinforced Frame and Rust Protection
Shipping container houseboat is treated with marine-grade paint, primers, or galvanization. Reinforce the floor and roof when modifying walls or adding decks.
3. Insulation & Vapor Barrier
Insulation and a vapor barrier are required to maintain indoor comfort and prevent condensation. Common insulation and vapor barriers that you can choose from are closed-cell spray foam (best for moisture), rigid foam board, and mineral wool with a vapor barrier.
4. Ventilation and HVAC
The ventilation and HVAC system includes an AC unit, exhaust fans, and dehumidifiers. You will need passive vents or powered systems for your shipping container houseboat to reduce humidity.
5. Framed and Finished Interior
Wood or metal framing over the container shell allows space for insulation, wiring, and wall finishes. You can finish your houseboat interior wall with plywood, drywall, or paneling.
6. Electrical and Plumbing Systems
The electrical and plumbing systems can be off-grid, or you can connect it to shore power and dockside plumbing. This system often includes LED lighting, marine-grade plumbing, and composting or marine toilets.
7. Full Living Amenities
You can include full living amenities like a kitchenette, compact bathroom, sleeping loft or foldable bed, and dining nook into your houseboat.
8. Deck or Outdoor Space
Extend the deck area of your shipping container houseboat for relaxation, dining, or mooring. You can make this outdoor space with treated wood or composite decking.
Conclusion
Shipping container houseboat is a new option for water lovers, including those looking to live more simply, retirees, and free spirits. Living here can be less expensive than living in a traditional home.
To build your own shipping container houseboat, buy containers from Tradecorp! Tradecorp is a reliable storage container sales, purchase, rental, and modification service company. Tradecorp provides modification and custom shipping container services to residences by adding windows, doors, walls, and roof insulation.
Our experienced staff is ready to help you arrange the shipping of your container to your requested location. Fill out our quote form to buy or rent from us!