Kids and Houseboats - houseboat living with children?

by Pam
(PA)

I am contemplating moving onto and living on a houseboat, and wonder how kids or children handle the houseboat life?

I'm wondering because I have a 14 year old, and curious how it will all work out. I know there are families out there that do it, and I would sure like to chat with some.

Thanks, Pam.


Reply - Answer
Well Pam, congratulations on your decision to try houseboat living with an older child, or should I say a young adult.

Personally I've seen many children, if not older kids enjoying the house boat lifestyle. Living on a houseboat is not always easy, and does require certain rules and obligations that kids seem to adapt to very well.

Kids seem to understand that there are different responsibilities on a boat, and it's a great opportunity for them to assume certain tasks and roles that are part of boating.

My personal experiences as a kid & houseboats:
Speaking from personal experience, when I was a kid (@ 10 years old), my dad and I spent many summers living on our houseboat together, and I remember clearly that it was one of the greatest moments in my life.

As a child, I learned that the marina and houseboat life was amazing, with plenty of great things to do. I also learned that all great things in life sometimes require work, and I had my tasks and responsibilities to keep it all running properly.


I remember the feeling when my dad and I would take the houseboat out for day or weekend trips, he would say that I was his "first mate" and that those tasks were as important as being the captain.

He would teach me all the tips and tricks about boating, and would occasionally let me drive (he was never far away), boy what a feeling, being the captain for an hour! Memories that last forever!

That's my thoughts on kids and houseboats, they go together like "peanut butter & jam", "fish & water", "salt & pepper", you get the idea. I'm a firm believer that children deserve the opportunity to taste "life on the water".



Lastly, hopefully some of our readers will share and post comments about how their children, or kids are handling living on a houseboat. Feel free to use the "Click here to post comments." link found at the bottom of this page.


Thanks again for sharing, IAN - from www.all-about-houseboats.com

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