We are ready to take new boat

orders for Spring delivery!

2 y e ar o f
ndG ibs o n B o at s o f S
Kicking off 20 18 and D

Kelly C
awthor
ne - Gil
ligan’s I
sland

Delta
- C a lifornia
a
Barbar

d, NV
man - L ake Mea
ulie Re i
Scott & J
Barb & Mike Metzi
nger on
the Missouri River
• Full Production Line 36’-59’
• Refurbish • Fiberglass Repair
• Insurance Work Welcome

605-231-1052
gibsonboatssd@hotmail.com • www.gibsonboats.com
follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/GibsonBoats
 MARCH | APRIL 2018
Vo l um e 2 8 | I s s u e 2

FEATURES
16
16 THE NUT HOUSE
Truly Customized

20 LOCKING THROUGH HISTORY

Houseboating Along The Erie Canal

24 DRINK UP
UV-LED Water Purifiers For Houseboaters

FUN FOR RENT

26 Worldwide Houseboat Rentals

DEPARTMENTS

AT THE HELM
6 Dispelling The Big Bang Theory

BOW TO STERN
8 Houseboating News, People & Places
20
24
12 LIVING ABOARD
Houseboat Liveaboards & Taxes

MAINTENANCE
14 Houseboat Q&A Session

HOW TO
30 Tips For Buffing And Polishing Metal

32 INTERIOR BY DESIGN
The Other Type Of Spring Cleaning 32
ADVERTISER INDEX
34 Page Number Listings

36 BROKER SECTION
Used Houseboats For Sale

39 BACK DECK RECIPES

Easter Feast

C o v e r p h o t o p r o v i d e d b y Ty A n gle • Cov e r de s ign by R. D . D y e

READERS: REMEMBER THAT BEHIND EVERY PRINTFLIC LOGO IS EXCLUSIVE VIDEO CONTENT
WAITING TO BE DISCOVERED! THIS INCLUDES BEHIND-THE-SCENES INTERVIEWS AND TOP-OF-
T H E - L I N E H O U S E B O A T S A N D E V E N R E S T O R E D V I N T A G E H O U S E B O A T S . D O W N L O A D T H E A P P,
O P E N I T U P, S C A N T H E P A G E . I T ’ S T H A T E A S Y !

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM MARCH | APRIL 2018 3

 SO, YOU DON’T HAVE STAFF

THRUSTERS?
No problem! We can install hydraulic
PUBLISHER
Greg Larsen

EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Brady L. Kay

EDITORIAL STAFF
bow and stern thrusters on your Jess Carpenter, Vanessa Oler,
Heather Magda Serrano, Roy Sparks

boat in one day--without moving EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENTS

Dan Armitage, Janet Groene,
Gini McKain
your boat from the slip!
ADVERTISING/EVENTS
Kory Davis
Terri Duncan
Westerbeke Greg Larsen

Generator PRODUCTION MANAGER

Installation Janet Chase

LAYOUT & DESIGN

R.D. Dye

PRODUCTION
Janet Chase, Jim Donovan
R.D. Dye

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Terri Duncan

MARKETING DIRECTOR
Greg Larsen

CIRCULATION MANAGER
Yvonne Young

Helm-mounted thruster CONTROLLER

Clayton Ward
controls make docking
ACCOUNTING
so easy! Laura Rafferty

IT DIRECTOR
Chuck Harris
• No trucks, trailers, welders or
To subscribe, go to:
fabricators needed. We do it all, www.harrispublishing.com/houseboat

and you save thousands!

• We make several styles and
sizes of built-in, bolt-on, and
tube-hydraulic thrusters.
Copyright 2018, published by Harris

• Are they strong? Stern

Publishing, 6 per year, sub rates,
back copies, foreign, reproduction
prohibitions, all rights reserved, not
There’s nothing stronger! Thruster responsible for content of ads and
submitted materials, mail permits, printed
by Falls Printing, Idaho Falls, Idaho.

HydraNautics CORPORATE OFFICES

Harris Publishing, Inc.
360 B Street, Idaho Falls, ID 83402
(208) 524-7000 • Fax (208) 522-5241
Founded by Darryl W. Harris

“When you’re tired of sitting at the dock.” President - Jason Harris

Vice President - Chuck Harris
Vice President - Ryan Harris

859-885-5545 Vice President - Steve Janes

Vice President - Greg Larsen
Treasurer - Clayton Ward
Check out the 4 online videos of our products in action. They will make a believer out of you! Secretary - Janet Chase

thrusterman.com
ALSO PUBLISHERS OF:
See for • Great Lakes Boating
• Pontoon and Deck Boat Magazine
yourself at
4 MARCH | APRIL 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

Dispelling The
Big Bang Theory
“
“Those who are expecting
some type of a big bang
explosion to jumpstart the
houseboat industry might
be sniffing a little too
much RV exhaust.”
”
6 MARCH | APRIL 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM
AT THE HELM
By Brady L. Kay
I know I’m not alone when I say I can
honestly feel the optimism coming from
our industry once again. It’s that positive
vibe we’ve been missing – yet anticipat-
ing – for quite awhile now. Experts have
always wanted to make direct comparisons
to the RV industry as the most accurate
way to anticipate and predict future
growth.
“When RV sales are on the rise, cus-
tom houseboats are close behind!” This is
something I’ve heard over and over from
many different people within our unique
niche in the boating industry and gen-
erally speaking they’re typically correct
in their logic. You really can make some
direct comparisons to the RV market as
history has proven. However, those who
are expecting some type of a big bang
explosion to jumpstart the houseboat
industry to the point where ordering a
custom-built houseboat lands you on a
year-long waiting list, I think you might be
sniffing a little too much RV exhaust.
If you want to look at a blueprint on
how to rebound, take a closer look at how
pontoon boat sales have continued to
increase year after year. There are a lot of
factors including the increase in perfor-
mance models (who could have predicted
the words “pontoon” and “performance”
ever being paired together?). To me the
one factor that is constantly being over-
looked is the affordability of these trailer-
able crafts.
Granted, as the popularity of pon-
toons has grown, so have the price tags
as these once considered entry-level-only
vessels are now climbing into the $200K
range, which I doubt anyone saw coming.
But even though high-end models with
twin 400hp outboards on the back keep
showing up at boat shows, it’s the $40K
to $60K quality pontoons that are getting
new families into boating and are the real
reason these boats have only gained in
popularity.
As our industry has struggled over the
last couple of years, it’s the lack of new
houseboaters that has hurt us most. Even
in the “glory years” when the houseboat
market was at its peak, there was always a
process or food chain if you will, to keep
new boats getting built. Current own-
ers would sell their five-year-old custom
houseboat and build another one. Their
old boat would be sold through a broker
to the next family in line who was looking
to upgrade and this would go down the
line until a 20-year-old “vintage” house-
boat was sold to family who had never
owned a houseboat before but decided to
give it a try.
When the economy took an unfavor-
able dip eight or so years ago, the chain
was broken. Those at the top were holding
onto their houseboats longer and those
affects trickled down to where the boat
brokers were scrambling just to find any
used houseboat to sell. The demand drove
up prices when used houseboats were
available and now that potential house-
boater was stuck at the dock with limited
options.
So in order to get back on track, new
orders need to be placed. But this is where
the new optimism comes in. We’re see-
ing more and more custom houseboats
being ordered, but we’re also seeing more
affordable houseboats being offered.
Similar to the pontoon market, you can
still build a top-of-the-line houseboat
if you want, but manufacturers are now
offering more budget-friendly type house-
boats too. Think you can’t afford a new
houseboat? Might want to take a closer
look as manufacturers are more eager
than ever to fill orders. This includes cur-
rent houseboat owners as well as potential
buyers, as the timing couldn’t be better. Q
Design + Performance and Legendary Performance Fabrics are trademarks and Sunbrella is a registered trademark of Glen Raven, Inc.
™
™
®

L EG E N DA R Y PE R F O R M A N C E FA B R I C S ™

SU N B R E L L A .CO M FA D E PR O O F / E A S Y C A R E / B L E AC H C L E A N A B L E
Bow To Stern
Houseboating’s places, faces, views, news, products and more.
Top three photos provided by the Auburn Pub

Bottom two photos provided by Theonomics

Will It Float?
Theon Parseghian used a derelict 1967 houseboat and a Lake, N.Y. last August.
crop-sprayer tractor to build this unusual vessel. More than 500 people Want to see if this ridiculously cool amphibious houseboat will float?
showed up to watch Parseghian launch his unique creation at Cayuga Download the free PrintFlic app and scan the photo to find out! Q

AC Just Got Cooler

That’s right, air conditioning units are even cooler now thanks to some new user-
friendly technology. Webasto Thermo & Comfort North America FCF AC
units are now available with the Micro-Air EasyTouch control panel and
smartphone app.
The Webasto FCF AC controls are so easy to use that you won’t need
any manual. They also figured out that you never go anywhere without
your smartphone, so they made things even simpler by creating the
accompanying app. You’ll have complete control right in the palm of your
hand.
The app’s so clever that it automatically finds thermostats on your
houseboat and it hosts the same functions found on the display panel.
You can also view status updates anywhere at anytime. Now that’s convenience
at its finest.
(800-215-7010 // www.webasto-marine.com) Q

Stylish Lighting Solutions

& IMTRA has introduced a range of 2-wire
LED lights that have become increasingly

Active
popular with houseboat builders, but are also
ideal for
refits.
The They are
Avalanche brand offered
is all about com- in a variety
fort, performance of models, trim
and the great rings styles, profiles, and finishes, and also
outdoors. Their
clothes are per-
fect for adven-
have options for LEDs in cool, neutral, and
warm color temperatures. These lighting
options offer the ability to light rooms accord-
Who Said It?
turers, travelers and dreamers. In short, they’re ing to whether they are living or work areas. Quotes from this issue
perfect for houseboaters. They also allow for different designs to accent “Word got around and soon everybody knew
They recently celebrated 30 years of different colors and themes in each house- the boat didn’t float. When they heard Angle
business and have further expanded their boat. Installation is easy and they can fit many was building the Nut House, everybody
collection. Their outerwear and activewear all lighting hole sizes. The smooth dimming fea-
started talking about it.”—Page 16
come at an affordable price that’s difficult to ture uses Vimar switches and the IMTRA dim-
pass up. ming module for the perfect setting of ambi-
You can find Avalanche clothes in depart- ence. These lights are fully sealed, IP65 rated, “Locking through is exciting! My 80-year-old
ment, sporting goods, specialty and online and they operate in an input voltage rang of 10 mother-in-law was there in her gloves, holding
stores. They also have a company concept to 40 VDC and feature current controlled drive onto the ropes and locking through.”
store in Salem, Mass., which reflects the com- circuitry. —Page 20
pany’s personality with cozy, inviting features Pricing starts at $79 and they can be pur-
and an extensive outdoor living collection. chased through IMTRA’s network of retailers or “Burnett attached the engagement ring to a
(833-428-9327 // online, all backed by a 5-year warranty. $300 bottle of champagne and hooked it to
www.avalanchewear.com) Q (508-995-7000 // www.imtra.com) Q the end of her line.”—Page 26 Q

8 MARCH | APRIL 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

 Anchor In Mooring Let’s Get Flexible
Made Even in hot weather, large power cords are
often stiff and difficult to lay out and coil—cold
temperatures only compound the problem.
Easy SmartPlug Systems’ new SUPERFLEX50 50A
125/250V cordset remains incredibly flexible.
No matter your And with the revolutionary SmartPlug, it’s the
experience as a safest and most efficient marine electrical
boater, mooring can connection on the market. SUPERFLEX50’s
be tricky at times, covering is made from supple 100 percent
especially when the Seoprene Thermoplastic Elastomer. Inside
weather gets rough. is pure stranded bare copper and #6 wire.
But you can wave The combination
goodbye to all that ensures maximum
There’s an anchor hiding inside every mag- unnecessary stress electrical transfer
azine, and the names of the first ten people to and say hello to EziBuoy. and the utmost
find it are included in the next issue! In Jan/ The EziBuoy is a magnetic mooring device flexibility needed
Feb, the anchor was on page 30 above the that connects to your mooring rope. The for easy handling.
basket on the counter. Here are the first read- device has three universal inserts that attach SmartPlug
ers to find it: to the handle of any existing boat hook pole Systems’
and the magnetic retrieval system clips in. SUPERFLEX50
Kenyon Morrow Lake Powell, Utah
The Ezibuoy is small, light and easy to clean. can be used on
Terri Langdon Visalia, Calif. Plus, the magnetic top section glows in the standard marina
John Jordan Altamonte Springs, Fla. dark. So even when the sun sets, you won’t 125V or 250V
Tom Olson Colorado Springs, Colo. have any problems mooring your boat. four-plug con-
(www.ezibuoy.com.au) Q nections. It has
Lonnie Jones Old Hickory, Tenn.
dual LED power
Kris Toedtmann Hermann, Mo. lights and is
Dennis Kirk Arcadia, Fla. available in 25-
Jackie Pettit Maumelle, Ark. and 50-foot
lengths.
Jessica Cole Caruthersville, Mo.
Denise and Gary Holmes Mansfield, Ohio
As soon as you spot the anchor, email the
location, your name and your hometown to (206-285-2990 //
anchor@houseboatmagazine.com. www.smartplug.com) Q
Good luck! Q

Creating Wonderful Houseboating

Memories For Over 20 Years!
Licensed & Insured Large
Houseboat Transportation: Up to 135'

www.sunstarhouseboats.com
Click or call today (606) 348-676498
WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM MARCH | APRIL 2018 9
From the Forums
Mini Split AC And GFCI Breaker
Excerpts from recent Houseboat forum exchanges
at www.houseboatmagazine.com/forum
bullseye: We finally got our mini split AC installed. It’s a 120-volt
system and designed to be on a 15 amp breaker. Our dock has a 30
amp GFCI breaker and whenever the outside unit comes on it trips that
breaker.
We have #10 wire running to the outside unit and after problems we
hooked up a second. Nothing fixed the problem.
They say it creates issues with the GFCI breakers because it’s an
inverter unit.
Any thoughts? Ike: GFCIs are designed to trip if there is an imbalance between the
input and the output. So the leakage needs to be isolated.
easttnboater: Unplug from the shore tie. Turn off everything on the boat. Plug in.
There have been If the GFCI trips, the problem is on the dock. If not, then turn on the
many reports on circuits one at a time. When the GFCI trips, you’ve found the circuit with
the Internet of mari- the problem. Unplug. Turn everything off again. Turn off each individual
nas installing GFCI appliance on the faulty circuit. Plug in. Turn on the circuit breaker of the
breakers that trip faulty circuit. If the GFCI trips, it’s the wiring. If not, turn on each item
constantly. You’ll one at a time. You’ve found the culprit when the GFCI trips.
have to talk with Inverters can be an issue. Some inverters are wired incorrectly in
the marina. regards to ground. The grounds for the AC side of the inverter and the
DC side should not be connected inside the inverter.
Endurance: I
don’t know it it’s bullseye: Thanks for the replies. My inverter is wired correctly. But
available at your because my mini split uses an inverter, the way the inverter starts caus-
marina, but it would es the GFCI to trip. I plan to install a marine isolation transformer on the
be an interesting boat.
troubleshooting
exercise to plug Have you faced issues with your mini split AC before? Hop on the
into other 30A GFCI forum at www.houseboatmagazine.com/forum and share your
breakers. experiences. Q

\ɄɨȐȽXȨȽɴȵȵɄɄɑȨȽȝ

0DUL'HFNQHW

10 MARCH | APRIL 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

 LIVING ABOARD
By Janet Groene

Houseboat Liveaboards
& Taxes

Disclaimer: anecdotes cited here are based on research at

press time and must be verified with your own tax advisor.

Sales tax. Use tax. Property tax. Personal property tax. It’s a myth that houseboat liveaboards can out-run the
tax collector. There are many questions but only one answer, “It depends.”
From the federal tax standpoint, two things can be said. First, the mortgage interest deduction for interest on
your primary or second home, including a houseboat, is said to remain under the new tax law. Check with your
tax advisor. Second, it’s a myth that boats are not subject to state taxes if they are federally documented. Ken-
tucky, for one, is taking notice of the millions of dollars worth of documented boats that are not registered as re-
quired by the state. This loophole is being closed. Documenting your houseboat has its own pluses and minuses
but that’s a debate for another time.
That brings us to everything else, which includes state, county and municipal taxes and unusual taxes such as
the annual U.S. Forest Service tax charged on houseboats in Lake Shasta, California (because it’s managed by the
USFS). Thousands of different taxes and fees are found nationwide. Every houseboat owner must know his and
her own situation.

12 MARCH | APRIL 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

 Here’s how complicated it becomes.
Kentucky imposes a user surtax on boats and
it differs greatly from one county to another.
One county’s houseboat tax may be three or
four times more than its neighbor. (At press
time, the state’s special burden on houseboats
is being challenged.)
In states where personal property tax
applies, “assessed value” can be in the eye of
the beholder. Then taxpayers take a double hit
when both the tax rate and the assessed value
rise. By contrast, the sale price of new and used
houseboats is usually a matter of public record.
In most states, houseboaters are subject to both
personal property and sales taxes, which could
vary by county or city.
In Arkansas, boats and other vehicles are
taxed each year at five percent of assessed value.
Your state may have no personal property tax
but you’ll pay a user tax. And states also charge
for a yearly boat license and/or registration fee.
Unpowered houseboats are usually taxed like
real estate.
You might buy the houseboat in a state that
charges no sales tax and then sail away. Howev-
er, each state applies a user fee after the boat
has been there for a certain period of time,
usually 30 days.
Houseboats must meet U.S.C.G. standards.
In Nevada, where houseboats are not subject to
property tax, they must also meet strict building
codes for, say, wiring and ventilation.
Houseboaters pay property tax in the form of
marina fees. If you own a dock or condo dock,
that’s also subject to property tax and you may
also be charged homeowner association dues.
The tax deferment known as a 1031 exchange
probably doesn’t apply to your houseboat if it
is now designated as personal property, not real
property, even if it’s your primary residence. See
your tax advisor.
Marinas often charge extra for living aboard.
It has nothing to do with taxes but with the
added use you make of marina facilities such as
trash collection. Marina services such as pump-
out may also be subject to sales or other taxes
or fees.
Taxation is constantly changing. Various About the Author
states have tried adding a surcharge for luxury Janet Groene is a professional journalist and
boats priced over a certain dollar figure. Other a member of Boating Writers International.
times, sales taxes were reduced on a sliding She and her late husband, Gordon Groene,
scale for mega-boats to boost sales. Such gim- lived full-time on the go for ten years. “Living
Aboard” is a recurring column that focuses on
micks are usually temporary.
living on your houseboat. Janet’s newest book,
Bottom line: don’t believe what you’re told by
The Survival Food Handbook (International
your friends. Get information from your own tax Marine Books), is a guide to provisioning and
advisor. Visit www.boatus.com/gov for state tax cooking with common supermarket ingredients
information, and contact state and local taxing to carry in your pantry. Janet posts new galley
authorities for county and city tax information. recipes weekly at www.BoatCook.blogspot.com. Q

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM MARCH | APRIL 2018 13

 ASK WARREN
By Warren Childers
S u n s t a r Ya c h t S a l e s & B r o k e r a g e

QA
You have houseboating
&

questions and Warren

has the answers
Question: I was thinking about using marine carpet on
the top deck of my older houseboat. What input do you have
on this as opposed to epoxy or other types of deck coating
approaches?
— Submitted by Richard Halbaugher, Oroville, Calif.

Warren: Carpet is not a roof coating. If your roof needs to be

recoated, you should do that before putting down carpet. The
sun does most of the damage to roof coatings. Once the carpet
is put down over a roof coating it will actually extend the life of
the coating in most cases. We have found that it is best to keep
roof carpet under your canopy top or hard top. Carpet exposed
to direct sunlight will deteriorate much fast then carpet under
a cover.

14 MARCH | APRIL 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

 Question: What is the best method for removing
old vinyl lettering from fiberglass transom without
damaging the gel coat?
— Submitted by David Coyne, Sandy, Utah

Warren: The best way to remove old vinyl letters

from fiberglass is to carefully use a razor blade and
scrape the vinyl off the surface of the gel-coat. You
can use a little WD-40 to make the surface slick
and help the blade glide over the fiberglass without
digging into it. Once that is done, use a solvent, such
as Goof Off, to remove the adhesive. Be very careful
and take your time. It is very easy to let the blade nick
the gel-coat. As always, some boats may be painted.
Always test the products you apply in an inconspicu-
ous location first.

Question: What is the best way to prevent water condensation on my

houseboat?
—Submitted by Lori and Andrew Grover, Radcliff, Ky.

Warren: The best way is to keep your air-conditioning or heat on when away
from your boat. We always set the air at 80 and the heat at 55 when away. If you
have a HVAC system and you are not comfortable leaving it on, you can always use
a dehumidifier. You can sit it on the kitchen counter and let the condensation
drain into the sink. Products like DampRid also work. However on larger boats,
they may not be as effective.

If you have a question about houseboating, shoot Warren an email at warren@houseboatmagazine.com. Q

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM MARCH | APRIL 2018 15

The Nut House
A Completely Customized
Houseboat By Heather Magda Serrano
Let’s be honest. Who hasn’t dreamed of building their
own houseboat from the ground up with everything com-
pletely customized and built to your taste?
Well, Ty Angle dreamed of building his own custom
houseboat for as long as he can remember and last
16 MARCH | APRIL 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM
September, his dream finally came to fruition when he put
his brand-new, custom-made houseboat in the water.
On Lake Don Pedro in California at night, the Nut House
literally lights up the lake, inspiring awe and admiration
from all viewers lucky enough to witness it.
Since Angle is an almond farmer, that is how he first came
up with the name for his houseboat. It just makes sense that
a nut farmer’s houseboat would be named the Nut House.
Angle also wanted people to go nuts (in a good way) when
they saw it floating on the water.
Due to the overflowing excitement and colors spilling
from every surface of the Nut House, I think it’s safe to say
he succeeded in his goal. You can’t help but stop and stare
at it because the entire place radiates with a contagious
charm.
Realizing His Dream learned about the project, they were excited and eager to do
Angle is a warm and friendly man with a free spirit, and their best work.
he knew building the Nut House would give him the perfect Together with CBS, Angle made the Nut House a reality.
place to gather and relax with his friends and family. The
project took several years on and off to complete, but in the Talk Of The Town
end, he couldn’t be happier with the way his Originally, Angle built another houseboat prior to the
breathtaking houseboat turned out. Nut House, but unfortunately something went
He worked with Cali- wrong with that one and it wouldn’t
fornia Building float. They had to pull it out of
Structures Inc. the water immediately and
(CBS) to build his the results ruined the
custom-house- boat.
boat. CBS are a This all took place at
residential and Lake Don Pedro, close
commercial con- to the small town of La
struction company Grange, Calif., a close-
based in Modesto, knit community where ev-
Calif. As such, they erybody knows everybody.
are experienced Small towns like this don’t
in houseboat have secrets.
construction and Word got around and
remodeling as soon everybody knew
well as metacrylics the boat didn’t float, so
roof coating and when they heard Angle
solar. When was building the Nut
they first House, everybody
started talking about
it. They were all
counting the days
until Angle finished
the Nut House. Ev-
erybody wanted to be
present when he put
it in the water for the
first time.

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM MARCH | APRIL 2018 17

 Photos provided by California Building Structures Inc.
California Building Structures Inc. • www.californiabuildingstructures.com
Among some of the townspeople there were naysayers betting the Nut House wouldn’t float, making it
quite a popular topic of debate that continued to gather momentum all the way up until they launched
the boat in September.

A Worthy Procession
The Nut House was famous in the city of La Grange long before Angle put it in the water, and when
the day came to finally launch the much-anticipated vessel, everybody showed up to witness its maiden
voyage.
“I didn’t know it was going to be that dramatic,” shared Brittney Ferrando, the photographer and
videographer of CBS.
Ferrando was stunned at the number of people who showed up from La Grange to watch the launch. To
add to the revelry, the Nut House was so large and so tall that they had to close down major roads when
transporting it from CBS’s boatyard to Lake Don Pedro.

18 MARCH | APRIL 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

 It took quite a number of people to transport the houseboat.
Other people and companies that helped the custom houseboat
make it to the launch site, aside from CBS employees, include
the highway patrol, the Modesto Irrigation District (MID), the
Turlock Irrigation District (TID), the Lake Don Pedro Rangers
and the Valley Movers.
Five highway patrol cars escorted them from the boatyard to
the lake along with the Valley Movers who ran alongside the
boat the entire way, making sure nothing went wrong.
The MID and TID had to move the power lines along the road
out of the way because of the boat’s remarkable height. They
dropped the power lines along some stretches of road or used
two boom trucks on either side with men raising power lines
that couldn’t be dropped.
Then the Lake Don Pedro Rangers met the procession at the
launch site, ready to help get the boat in the water. The Valley
Movers continued to help launch the boat with the rangers.
“It took a lot more effort than I thought it would ever take to
put a boat in the water,” admitted Ferrando.
The Nut House was successfully launched in Lake Don Pedro
and the entire process was quite the display. Park rangers said
they had never seen anything like it before.
It was a show that left everyone awestruck.

Spectrums Of Light
One of the more eye-grabbing details that sets the Nut House
apart from other houseboats is its unique lighting.
The three different levels of the boat, both inside and out, all
have different lighting settings that can be easily adjusted and
changed using an iPad on the wall. So just with the tap or the
swipe of your fingers you can change the whole flavor of your
party.
Additionally, the bar upstairs also literally glows, which adds
to the atmosphere. There are lights beneath the surface of the
countertop and like everything else on the houseboat, they can
be adjusted to taste.
The lighting and ambience of the houseboat are some of An-
gle’s favorite features in his new houseboat.
From top to bottom, there are countless different options for
lighting with a rainbow of colors from which to choose. It’s su-
per easy to play with until you find the perfect setting to match
your mood.

Complete Customization
When Angle set out to build the Nut House, he wanted to
build the biggest and best houseboat out there. For this reason,
everything on the boat is completely customized.
“That boat’s pretty cool,” admired Ferrando. “Everything looks
amazing and I don’t think I would change anything on it.”
Angle has created the perfect hang out for his family and
friends. He thought of everything from the three different little
mini fridges on the different levels to the two barbeques up top.
It even has solar power.
He had a vision and knew exactly what he wanted. He
wouldn’t stop until everything on his boat was perfect. Even
if the process took a little longer in order to create his dream
houseboat, in the end, it was totally worth it. The Nut House is
undeniably brilliant and Angle is extremely pleased with how it
turned out.
“I can’t find one thing I don’t like,” proclaimed Angle. Q
WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM MARCH | APRIL 2018 19
Locking Through History
Houseboating along the Erie Canal
Repurpose. Upcycle. Reimagine.
These are all new words getting thrown around the Erie Ca-
nal lately. Another word you don’t hear too often between the
Canal’s 83 locks? Houseboat.
Last year marked 200 years since the historic Erie Canal’s
completion, and locals weren’t the only ones to recognize the
Canal’s original purpose is obsolete.
“The Canal is definitely not used for commercial shipping
anymore,” Long Islander Glenn Staudigel says. “We only saw
one barge the entire time we were on the canals. It’s mainly
used for recreation now.”
In response, The New York Power Authority and the New
20 MARCH | APRIL 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM
York State Canal Corporation launched a competition to
reimagine the canals. Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s vision for
this competition includes finding “visionary, implementable
concepts and initiatives that promote the Canal System’s her-
itage, foster economic development and tourism, and improve
the Canal System’s long-term financial sustainability.”
Bob Stivers has the answer: rent his houseboat!
Full-Size Houseboating
Dubbed the Seneca Lake Houseboat and quite possibly the
only full-sized houseboat in the region, this 67-foot boat is
every bit the houseboat available at more traditional locales.
“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime thing.
Like going up the Grand Canyon. I
tell everybody about it and you’ve just
got to get a group of people together
and do the Erie Canal.”
– Glenn Staudigel

By Vanessa Oler

The interior has a saloon, full galley complete with all standard
appliances, four state rooms, two full heads, central air condi-
tioning and heat. Decks at stern and bow allow for grilling (yes,
there’s a gas grill onboard!), sunbathing and sightseeing. The
upper deck measures a whopping 50 feet long by 15 feet wide
and sports a service bar, hot tub, and water slide.
“We’d been running a few houseboats for a local company
just to get their name out there for a few years. We finally
purchased this boat in 2009,” Stivers says, “then re-welded the
entire thing and had it ready for the 2010 season. And people
love it!”
Stivers and his team run several tourism sites and rental

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM MARCH | APRIL 2018 21

hubs in the Seneca Lake area, but the houseboat is by far the
most popular option.
“There are canal boats available to rent,” Stivers states, “but
you can only get four to six people on those. People with big
families love renting the full-size deal. I give training to every-
body who captains it themselves, but the best part of the canal
is you can just parallel park it wherever you want instead of
worrying about getting into a slip. I’m also available to captain
it from village to village for families who want to explore more
on land.”

Exploring The Erie

Glenn Staudigel was one of those guys with a big family, but
a life-long desire to explore the Erie Canal.
“I’ve always wanted to explore the Erie Canal—to lock
through—but never knew how to go about doing it,” Staudigel
relates. “I didn’t know anybody with a boat who could do this.
One year, we went to a boat show down here in New York City
and as I walked in there’s a big sign that reads, ‘Rent Your Own
Houseboat. Tour the Erie Canal.’ So I walked right up and I
gave them my credit card! My in-laws came over and asked,
‘What are you doing?’ I told them this was going to be our
summer vacation and they thought I was nuts because I know
nothing about running a boat this big. But I assured them it
would be okay and they’d be able to show me!”
Staudigel rounded up the family, the in-laws, and a few cous-
ins for their first trip through the canal nearly 17 years ago.
His two sons – three and five at the time – had the trip of their
life and begged to do it again the next summer.
“During that first trip,” Staudigel laughs, “people along the
canal kept asking for tours because nobody had ever seen
anything that size on the canal. We said of course. I figured
the more successful Stivers was with these boats, the better it
would be for us as well because we’d be able to come back and
rent them again.
“Everybody has a great time. Locking through is exciting!
My 80-year-old mother-in-law was there in her gloves, holding
onto the ropes and locking through. Then there are just parts
of the canal that are unbelievably beautiful. And the towns you
stop in—Seneca Falls all the way up to Fairport is the other
one we go to—everything is terrific. It’s great to be able to tie
up for free and the boat is totally self-sufficient so any place
you find that you can tie up to, you can.”

Vacation Revisited
As the children grew up, the summer trip through the Erie
Canal took a backseat to school trips, sports practice, and col-
lege visits. Then, about ten years later, the oldest son brought
it up. The tradition was reborn!
“The moment we got off the boat for that trip,” Staudigel
says, “we turned around and said, ‘Great, we’ll take it for the
same time next year!’”
Stivers obliged and bookings go quickly, sometimes years
in advance. With more than 30 canal boat rental companies
available on the Erie Canal alone, there are plenty of ways
to get on the water. Stivers, though, hopes his submission to
the Reimagine competition stands out and encourages more
houseboats to put in on the canal.

22 MARCH | APRIL 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

 History Lesson
Submissions were due to the Reimagine the Canal commit-
tee in January and included a wide variety of ideas, plans and
projects. Originally conceived by New York politician DeWitt
Clinton, this 363-mile canal links the Great Lakes to the Hud-
son River. Ships traveling from across the Atlantic into port at
New York City could offload cargo or carry it themselves up the
Hudson River, through the Erie Canal, and onto the previously
landlocked Midwest. Cities now considered major centers of
business and industry would not have been possible without
the Erie Canal.
“At its peak in the early 1950s,” the Reimagine the Canal
board says, “the Canal System was a significant contributor
to the economic vitality of New York State. Today, the Canal
System has untapped potential as an economic asset, for both
tourism and recreational uses.”

Promoting The Canal

The competition is putting out a general casting call, as
it were, for local visionaries from any background. Ideas can
be as big as physical infrastructure projects or as simple as
programming and marketing initiatives. Requirements are
straightforward, asking all proposals to promote the Canal
System as a tourist destination and recreational asset, sustain-
able economic development along the canals, the heritage
and historic values, and the long-term financial sustainability
of the Canal System. A jury of experts from fields relevant to
urban and rural development, community engagement, and
marine regulation will assist the Canal Corporation in creating
a shortlist of finalists and making recommendations for the fi-
nal awards. Preference is given to proposals that fully integrate
and appreciate the historical significance of the Erie Canal.
“I can’t get over the amount of history that’s part of the
whole canal,” Staudigel remarks. “You get to see Seneca Falls
Finger Lakes Water Adventures where the Women’s Movement took place and the factories
315-789-5520 that supplied soldiers with socks through most of our Amer-
ican wars. The houseboat we rented isn’t cheap, but the hot
www.fingerlakeswateradventures.com tub and the slide off the back is perfect for kids. For a family
vacation, you just can’t beat it. When we started this whole
New York Canals thing, my sons were toddlers. Now they are in their early 20s
www.canals.ny.gov and they still want to do it.” Q

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM MARCH | APRIL 2018 23

24 MARCH | APRIL 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM
Up
By Brady L. Kay

Acuva Technologies Inc.

800-980-8810
www.acuvatech.com

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM MARCH | APRIL 2018 25

Fun For
Worldwide
Rent
Houseboat
Rentals
A couple of years ago, some friends in
Amsterdam got together with a dream
to share their passion for houseboat-
ing with the world. Juul Steyn, Pepijn
Niesten and Kamiel Keeris are now the
proud owners of the first worldwide
houseboat rental community.
“We worked really hard to create
something beautiful,” shared Keeris,
“and I hope that people find us and
enjoy the pleasure of staying on a house-
boat for the night.”
With their unique and innovative
company, you literally have the freedom
to book a houseboat on the other side
of the globe. In fact, that’s what their
company’s called: BookaHouseboat.
The BookaHouseboat website allows
you to browse through a plethora of
houseboats available for rent all over
the map. Not only will you get to visit
new locations, but you’ll do it aboard a
houseboat. And we already know that’s
the best way to live and vacation. Am I
right, houseboaters?
The sky is the limit with BookaHouse-
boat. Rent a houseboat in the Bahamas,
the Kerala backwaters of India, or in the
owners’ very own hometown of Amster-
dam. And those are just a few of the
options available.
It brings a joyous tear to the eye just
thinking about the possibilities as I
nostalgically quote one of my favorite
childhood authors in saying, “Oh, the
places you’ll go!”
A Novel Experience
Like I said before, nothing quite beats
a houseboating getaway. Keeris attest-
ed that as someone who lives on the
water, you feel like you’re on holiday all
the time. A feeling you wouldn’t mind
perpetuating.
26 MARCH | APRIL 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM
Far left: Pepijn Niesten, Co-owner
and right: Juul Steyn, Co-owner
He talked about how there is nothing
like waking up in the morning, opening
your door and looking out across the
water. Keeris’s passion was almost palpa-
ble as he talked about the unparalleled
beauty and peace that come with living
on a houseboat.
Then, not only are you living out on
the water and doing the things you love,
but as a result you end up bonding with
people of mutual interests. Kindred spir-
its, you could say. That’s how our warm
and friendly houseboat communities are
born.
“It’s just a relaxing way of life,” added
Keeris, “and we want to share that with
other people as well. We want to share
the water-living experience.”
Another thing the friends noticed as
they built their company was that trav-
eling trends were moving more toward
novelty than convenience. That’s not to
imply that houseboats are inconvenient
in any way, oh contraire, but I think we
Oh,
can all agree there is a novelty that sur-
rounds houseboating in a way that could
never be matched by a Motel 6.
They’re special. They’re unique.
There’s nothing quite like it. On top of
that, many of the houseboats available
with BookaHouseboat are historically
significant.
BookaHouseboat converted a former
WWII ship into a houseboat that is now
available for rent. They also convert
vessels such as ferry boats and authentic
Indian spiceboats into floating homes.
Staying in such a residence would be a
rich, one-of-a-kind experience.
Keeris also mentioned the houseboats
Popular Locations available in Paris on the Seine are par-
Some of the more popular areas on ticularly sought-after. There’s little mys-
BookaHouseboat include Rotterdam, tery as to why this is because being right
Berlin, Hamburg and London. in the center of Paris, you will never have
the places you’ll go!
By Heather Magda Serrano

a shortage of things to do or places to
explore. The setting alone makes your
heart skip a beat.
Of course, another favored location
for renters is in the company’s home-
base in Amsterdam. The city’s incompa-
rable beauty attracts houseboaters from
all over the world like bees to honey.
“It’s just like the pictures,” said Keeris,
“maybe even better.”
You don’t have to take his word for it.
Hop on a plane to Amsterdam, rent one
of their houseboats and see for yourself!
These few destinations are just the
tip of the iceberg. There are countless

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM MARCH | APRIL 2018 27

locations to choose from on Booka-
Houseboat. So come on! Time for some
globe trotting!
Making Memories
Steyn shared a touching story of how
one of their renters from the United
States proposed to his Italian girlfriend
on one of BookaHouseboat’s boats.
Marc Burnett is a fanatic angler and
so is his now-wife Francesca. For the
marriage proposal, he wanted to make
it a day she would never forget and he
definitely succeeded.
He rented a houseboat in Amsterdam,
took her angling, and planned on having
her reel in a big fish.
Burnett attached the engagement
ring to a $300 bottle of champagne
and hooked it to the end of her line.
Just before she came out, he threw it in
the water. Unfortunately, this incredi-
bly romantic gesture didn’t work out as
planned because Burnett overestimated
the strength of his fishing line.
The line snapped, leaving her holding
a fishing rod with a loose piece of line
dangling impotently in the water. Need-
less to say, she was rather confused and
he was rather lost for words.
After a moment that seemed to last
an eternity, Burnett fell to his knees and
asked her to marry him.
She said yes!
Even though they never found the
bottle of champagne or the ring, the
Burnetts walked away with something
much better. They walked away with each
other, the promise of a life together and
the precious memories they made on
their rented houseboat in Amsterdam.
Specialized Platform
The owners first got their idea for
BookaHouseboat when they noticed the
rising popularity of Airbnb. Airbnb is
another online hospitality company that
helps people to lease or rent their homes
for a short-term period.
The thing about Airbnb is that all
the houseboats are often buried under
offerings of ordinary on-shore houses. It
can be unnecessarily time-consuming to
find houseboats on the website.
When the friends noticed this, they
seized the opportunity to create a
specialized version of this idea. They cre-
ated a rental community that specifically
28 MARCH | APRIL 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM
caters toward houseboats and watervil-
las. Thus, BookaHouseboat was born.
BookaHouseboat has a more personal,
customized touch. “We’re not a corpo-
rate organization like Airbnb,” explained
Keeris. “We’re just three friends who
made a really good platform.”
Financially Savvy
Could it really get any better? Because
it just did.
In big cities such as Paris and Amster-
dam, staying in a houseboat is more cost
efficient than staying at a hotel. This
holds especially true if you are travel-
ing with your family or with a group of
friends.
BookaHouseboat also offers about
180 different payment systems. No, that
wasn’t a typo; they really do offer around
180 different forms of payment. That’s
due to the countless currencies that
saturate Europe.
“So it’s not just a credit card and
paper,” added Keeris. “It’s your local
banking as well.”
The owners of BookaHouseboat put a
lot of time into creating the numerous
different payment systems, and in the
end, it has paid off.
Having so many different payment
systems makes it more convenient for
world travelers from all continents to
book with BookaHouseboat. This is one
of their powerful advantages over similar
businesses like Airbnb.
Live The Dream
Steyn, Niesten and Keeris have un-
doubtedly struck gold with their sensa-
tional idea of creating BookaHouseboat.
Just browsing the different locations
where houseboats are available for rent
on the BookaHouseboat website makes
you weak in the knees.
It might be time to step out and try
some new things in some new places.
Take a page out of the Burnetts’ book
and create memories that will stay with
you for the rest of your life.
The hardest part is deciding where
you want to go. Q
BookaHouseboat
www.bookahouseboat.com
 Photos provided by BookaHouseboat

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM MARCH | APRIL 2018 29

Simple Tips For

Buffing And Polishing Metal

Easy to do and adds eye-popping shine

K ram er
r y W .
By Ga

30 MARCH | APRIL 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM


There are several ways to achieve an
eye-popping shine to the metal com-
ponents of your houseboat. The most
expensive is to have a plating company
re-work them. The middle-of-the-road
approach is working with a skilled crafts-
man like Bill Norris of Norris Marine
and Restoration in Rock Island, Ill., on
the Mississippi River. He uses standard
shop equipment to polish and buff all
the exposed metal to a gleaming finish,
including the screw and bolt heads.
Or, you can do it yourself, achieving
essentially the same results. It takes
some time and effort with tools you
probably have and a couple you might
not have.
The process is the same for virtually
all metals. First you sand the surface
to remove deep blemishes and burrs,
then continue with finer grits until you
polish with a special buffing wheel and
compound.
For demonstration purposes, we chose
a stainless rub rail with some nicks and
scratches, a round piece of stainless, a
dull aluminum rod and a piece of badly
pitted anodized aluminum.
For many of his projects, Norris bends,
welds and fabricates parts from stainless.
Once he has that done, he starts the pol-
ishing process by using an air-powered
DA (dual-action) sander set in the grind-
er position. Generally he starts with 220
grit paper for the first pass. If that is
not coarse enough, he drops down until
the blemishes are gone. After the 220,
he goes over the piece with 400 grit.
Frequently, especially with stainless, that
is fine enough to then take them to the
buffing wheel. Sometimes he wet sands
with 600 and then 1000 grit paper.
He uses a special buffing wheel in a
dedicated buffing machine. The wheel
is made of a special type of muslin,
manufactured by Grobet USA and sold
at lapidary shops. The wheel spins onto
a special tapered shaft that attaches to
whatever you use for a buffer. You need
to know which way your buffer shaft
rotates because the spindles come in
either left or right rotation. The final
product you need is a buffing compound
called Fabulustre that is made to polish
metal.
Norris works the piece against the
dressed wheel using plenty of com-
pound until he achieves the high shine
he demands. Screw heads are polished
by sliding the shaft into a hollow rod to
make it easier to hold up to the wheel. A
small vice grip can also be used, taking
care not to damage the threads.
This same system, using similar but
not professional tools can be used by
anyone to obtain similar results. It just
takes more time to successfully complete
each step.
To demonstrate this, Norris finished
one end of each sample and we did the
other. First, we created a backer pad for
hook and loop sandpaper using a kit
WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM
sold to repair or create these types of
pads. We then attached the pad to an
old, high speed sander.
On the anodized bar, the pits were so
deep we had to go down to a 60 grit flap
wheel in an angle grinder, followed by
a 120 grit flap wheel. From there it was
220, 400, then wet sanded with 600,
800 and 100 grit before polishing. The
aluminum rod and stainless rub rail were
sanded with 220, then 400, and just to
make sure, wet sanded with the 600 and
1000 paper.
The buffing wheel was attached to a
spindle on a 41-year-old Shopsmith, a
multi-purpose woodworking tool. That
doesn’t have the torque of Norris’ buffer,
but a slow and steady polishing session
yielded essentially the same results.
All the metal except stainless steel will
start to oxidize and become dull or rust,
so the professional fix is to spray them
with a clear coat. The D-I-Y approach is
to polish them with a protective fin-
ish and maintain them with repeated
coatings.
Although it is hard to see in the
photos, the ends Norris did and the
ends we did turned out very similar. The
mirror-like finish on the round stain-
less steel plate does show what can be
accomplished.
Norris has used this system to detail
engines where every piece of metal in-
cluding both regular and stainless steel
and all the copper and brass fittings end
up gleaming.
For a modest amount of money and
some time and elbow grease with tools
you probably already own, you can refur-
bish, buff and polish the metal on your
boat to a mirror-like finish. And your
dock-mates will probably ask where you
got the new metal pieces. Q
MARCH | APRIL 2018 31
 INTERIOR BY DESIGN
By Beach Décor Shop

Spring Cleaning
F
olks in the houseboat
community know the
importance of wintertime

On The High Seas maintenance. The off season is

our version of “spring cleaning,”
the perfect time to dust and pol-
ish our palaces—but also to reor-
ganize and redecorate things for
optimal comfort and ambience.
This year, we encourage our
seafaring friends to tidy their
boats with both style and practi-
cality in mind. There are plenty
of ways you can maximize storage
space while still putting your own
unique stamp on each room’s
décor. Come summer, you’ll be
thanking your lucky stars that you
readied your floating home for all
to enjoy. Here’s a compilation of
our top tips for spring cleaning
your houseboat this year.

1. Shelving
Although houseboats are
widely known for being short on
space, it’s peculiar that more peo-
ple don’t embrace hung shelving.
In lieu of bulky bookcases and
other furniture, take advantage of
vertical areas in each room with
some fabulously functional drum
cage shelves. Featuring gorgeous
antique bronze frames and
tempered glass surfaces, these
uttermost fixtures take up little
room but have plenty of space for
books, picture frames and other
small essentials. Their three-di-
mensional effect also captures a
modern vibe, so they go
perfectly with
any décor.

2. Down Under
Most contemporary houseboats have full-sized beds, couches,
coffee tables and other furniture. This is imperative for your daily
comfort. But why waste space when you can fill every nook and
cranny with your everyday living essentials? Go below the surface
and invest in some smart organizer baskets, which slip conveniently
under an end table, dining chair—really anywhere you can find a foot or
two. Wicker or rattan styling goes great with your existing marine décor, and
tons of integrated compartments make these ideal storage spots for everything from
magazines and games to socks, shoes, toiletries and beyond.

32 MARCH | APRIL 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

3. Ditch Your Dining Table
Do you ever find yourself eating under the stars instead of in the galley? Once warm weather appears, people start to regret
purchasing such formal furniture, which goes untouched for the majority of the season. Save space and anticipate your future
outdoor adventures with a stunning folding bamboo table. Lightweight, portable, durable, and available in plenty of different
colors, this foldaway bistro travels easily to the deck, dock, beach, or anywhere you decide to dine in coastal style. When not in
use, it stows neatly under the bed or in a small closet.

4. File Papers Fashionably

Living on the water does not exclude you from the typical responsibilities
of adult life. You’ll still need access to important work documents, personal
correspondence, as well as your boat’s official paperwork. Instead of housing a
clunky, oversized storage bin, integrate your office supplies in chic style with a
beautiful pine file cabinet. This
discreet piece blends seam-
lessly with your nautical
décor and helps you avoid
the unnecessary papers, junk mail
and clippings that tend to pile up on
your coffee table and kitchen counter.

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM MARCH | APRIL 2018 33

 5. The Rolling Bandwagon
The rustic, reclaimed look is going strong into 2018.
Take this timeless style and make it a key part of your
spring cleaning by storing dishes, utensils, hand towels
and other essentials in a rolling kitchen station. Built
on super durable caster wheels and designed with
magnificent hand-painted graphics, this mahogany
and rattan chest arrives with four built-in multipurpose
drawers. Imagine moving the piece around the boat to
suit your various needs, all while keeping your things
neat and tidy for all seasons.
Don’t forget that “spring cleaning” also means dust-
ing, mopping, vacuuming and purging of past clutter.
But adopt these quick and easy decorating tips, and
you’ll be well on your way to having a clean, cozy, com-
fortable time on your houseboat this coming year! Q

ADVERTISING INDEX
ADVERTISER WEB ADDRESS PAGE
BacTANK T3 35
www.bactankt3.com
Deckrite (MariDeck) 10
www.marideck.net
Elite Boat Sales 38
www.eliteboatsales.net
Gibson Boats S.D., LLC 2
www.gibsonboats.com
Houseboats buy Terry 36, 37
www.houseboatsbuyterry.com
HydraNautics 4
www.thrusterman.com
Propco Marine Propellers 35
www.propcopropellers.com
Southern Lakes Marine Transport, Inc. 35
southernlakesca@gmail.com
Sunbrella 7
About the author:
www.sunbrella.com
Nicole LoCicero is a decorator, homemaker and
mother living in Raleigh, NC. Her love of the ocean drove Sunstar Houseboats, Inc. 9
her to open www.BeachDecorShop.com. Interior By Design www.sunstarhouseboats.com
is a recurring column in Houseboat magazine. Trifecta Ventures, LLC 40
For More Information: Beach Décor Shop www.tbboats.com
919-341-4279 Wilson Pontoons, Inc. 35
www.BeachDecorShop.com www.plasticpontoon.com

34 MARCH | APRIL 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

36-inch Diameter
Modular
Plastic Pontoons
The Best Idea Since the Indian Canoe

Hull design for high performance and greater lift

sUses: Pontoon boats, houseboats,

work boats — replace old steel or
aluminum pontoons
sHeavy-duty: Molded from
sturdy, medium density
polyethylene (MDPE) and filled
with polyurethane foam for
increased stability Southern Lakes Marine Transport
sModular: Each bow, middle, and Formerly Dreams In Motion
stern modules are 10 ft. in length
s$ISPLACEMENTATFULL
submersion: Bow module
supports gross weight of 3,100
lbs. and middle/stern each
supports 4,200 lbs.

2869 Charlevoix St.

The Villages, FL 32163-2019

Houseboat and Cruiser Transport

phone: 419-675-0002
TOLLFREE   812-277-8678
email: info@wilsonpontoons.com
Owner: Cory Atchison southernlakesca@gmail.com
www.plasticpontoon.com

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM MARCH | APRIL 2018 35

 “More than anything else, we want the boat that’s
best for you.” Terry Miller
TOLL FREE 866-942-0885
Main Office, Conley Bottom, 606-340-8652

2001 Horizon 16’ x 65’ WB 1985 Lazy Days 14.6’ x 62’ 2009 Destination 17’ x 58’ 1994 Stardust 18’ x 86’ WB 1980 Gibson 14’ x 50 1995 Sumerset 16’ x 65’ WB
in KY $179,500 in KY $99,900 in PA $219,000 in TN $159,000 in TN $32,000 in KY $138,500

1987 Stardust 14’ x 56’ 2013 Sunstar 16’ x 69’ 1989 Sumerset 14’ x 62’ WB 2009 Sunstar 17’ x 74’ WB 1985 Sumerset 14’ x 60 1992 Stardust 16’ x 74’ WB
in TN $73,500 in KY $339,900 in AL $79,500 in KY $289,900 in TX $69,500 in KY $159,500

BROKER LISTINGS
BROKER LISTINGS

1991 Stardust 19’ x 84’ WB 1972 Westmoreland 16’ x 48’ 2010 Funtime 16’ x 70’ WB 1987 Stardust 14’ x 52’ 2012 Horizon 16’ x 66’ WB 1999 Sharpe 16’ x 68’ WB
in KY $187,500 in TN $29,000 in NC $272,000 in FL $49,500 in KY $272,900 in KY $146,900

1985 Jamestowner 16’ x 56’ 1989 Sumerset 18’ x 78’ 1984.2008 Holiday Mansion 2007 Horizon 18’ x 80’ WB 1994 Jamestowner 14’ x 60’ 1990 Sumerset 18’ x 77’ WB
in KY $29,000 in KY $115,000 36’ in TN $55,000 in KY $274,500 in KY $85,000 in KY $145,000

2005 Horizon 18’ x 82’ W 1983 Sumerset 14’ x 58’ 1991 Leisure Time 14’ x 63’ 1998 Fantasy 16’ x 75’ WB 1987 Sumerset 14’ x 59’ 2003 Lakeview 16’ x 65’ WB
in IN $279,000 in KY $49,500 WB in KY $99,999 in KY $170,000 in AL $69,800 in KY $178,500
 1985 Marinette 32’ 1997 Lakeview 14’ x 56’ WB 1988 Jamestowner 14’ x 58’ 2007 Bluewater 5200 Custom 1980 Sumerset 14’ x 58’ 2007 Thoroughbred 20’ x 78’
in KY $25,000 in TN $89,000 in KY $54,900 in FL $379,000 in KY $72,000 WB in TN $399,900

2003 Sunstar 19’ x 103’ WB 1988 Waterhouse 14’ x 56’ 1998 Jamestowner 16’ x 64’ 1985 Sumerset 14’ x 60’ 2011 Aqualodge 10’ x 42’ 1988 Sumerset 14’ x 60’
in KY $449,000 in KY $52,000 WB in TN $129,900 in KY $59,900 in RI $75,000 in KY $74,000

1992 Harbor Master 14’ x 47’ 2012 Majestic 16’ x 65’ WB 1993 Jamestowner 14’ x 54’ 2002 Sumerset 16’ x 77’ WB 2009 Fantasy 19’ x 90’ WB 1996 Sumerset 16’ x 75’ WB
in IN $69,000 in KY $199,900 WB in KY $85,000 in TN $219,000 in SC $389,000 in KY $129,000
BROKER LISTINGS

BROKER LISTINGS
1999 Sharpe 16’ x 68’ WB 2001.2016 Sharpe 17.5’ x 84’ 1999 Jamestowner 16’ x 80’ 2000 Sunstar 16’ x 49’ 2001 Lakeview 16’ x 69’ WB 1999 Stardust 16’ x 80’ WB
in KY $146,900 WB in KY $359,000 in KY $132,500 in KY $149,000 in KY $159,900 in TN $189,995

Is this the year you turn your passion into a career? Join our Broker sales team on your lake, USA.
Phone 606-305-7049 or E-mail boatwings@yahoo.com to learn more.

Dale Hollow Lake Eastern Kentucky Lake Cumberland Laurel Lake

Jake Pyzik • 931-397-4154
Center Hill Lake
Pat Riley • 931-260-2662
Glenn Combs • 859-227-7318
Mississippi
Dale Shepherd • 601-260-4745
Lisa Blakeman • 270-507-6668 Ceysha Clark • 606-669-9515
Ceysha Clark • 606-669-9515
Knoxville
Jake Pyzik • 931-397-4154
Tom Whitaker • 901-569-5095
Melonie Whitaker • 865-250-0888
 BROKER LISTINGS

Located at State Dock on Beautiful

Lake Cumberland Kentucky

2004 16x84 Sharpe 2015 20 x 106 1983 14x56 Jamestowner 2006 18.5 x 88 Horizon
$295,000 Stardust Custom Yacht $1,199,000 $37,900 $380,000

1999 14x54 Jamestowner 2007 17x78 Funtime 1990 16 x 76 Sumerset 2003 17 x 79 Lakeview
$75,000 $249,000 $148,500 $239,000

1994 16 x 74 Sumerset 2006 18 x 85 Starlite 2016 21x100 Thoroughbred 2010 18x93 Sharpe
$148,000 $259,000 $115,000 $495,000

2003 16x70 Horizon 1996 14x54 Jamestowner 1987 16x63 Stephens 2004 16x68 Lakeview
$179,500 $79,999 $38,999 $177,000

To View Hundreds of Houseboats, visit

www.eliteboatsales.net
Let Us Do The Work...
So You Have More Time To Play!
For complete listings, and to find your next houseboat visit:
www.eliteboatsales.net • or call us at 800-234-3625
BROKER LISTINGS
Back Deck Recipes Easter Feast

Q Drink: degrees F (230 degrees C).

Boston Iced Tea
Recipe by
DAMODDAHALIEN
Ingredients:
1 gallon water
1 cup white sugar
15 tea bags
1 (12 fluid ounce) can
frozen cranberry juice
concentrate
Directions:
Put water in large pot, and
heat on high until boiling.
Add sugar and stir until
dissolved. Add teabags
and let steep until desired
strength. Stir in cranberry
juice concentrate and allow
to cool.
Q Appetizer:
Prosciutto Wrapped
Asparagus
Recipe by
Trish
Ingredients:
1/2 pound prosciutto,
sliced
4 ounces Neufchatel
cheese, softened
12 spears fresh asparagus,
trimmed
Directions:
Preheat oven to 450
Spread prosciutto slices
with Neufchatel cheese.
Wrap slices around 2 or 3
asparagus spears. Arrange
wrapped spears in a single
layer on a medium baking
sheet. Bake 15 minutes in
the preheated oven, until
asparagus is tender.
Q Dinner: Rosemary
Braised Lamb Shanks
Recipe by
S. HODGE
Ingredients:
6 lamb shanks
salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 onions, chopped
3 large carrots, cut into 1/4
inch rounds
10 cloves garlic, minced
1 (750 milliliter) bottle red
wine
1 (28 ounce) can whole
peeled tomatoes with juice
1 (10.5 ounce) can
condensed chicken broth
1 (10.5 ounce) can beef
broth
5 teaspoons chopped fresh
rosemary
2 teaspoons chopped fresh
thyme
Directions:
Sprinkle shanks with salt
and pepper. Heat oil in
heavy large pot or Dutch
oven on medium-high heat.
Working in batches, cook
shanks until brown on all
sides. Transfer shanks to
plate. Add onions, carrots
and garlic to pot and sauté
until golden brown. Stir in
wine, tomatoes, chicken
broth and beef broth.
Season with rosemary
and thyme. Return shanks
to pot, pressing down
to submerge. Bring to a
boil, then reduce heat to
medium-low. Cover and
simmer until meat is tender,
usually in about 2 hours.
Remove cover from pot.
Simmer about 20 minutes
longer. Transfer shanks to
platter and place in a warm
oven. Boil juices in pot until
thickened. Spoon juice over
shanks.
Q Dessert: 4 eggs Beat together eggs, sugar,
Lemon Pie Bars 1 1/2 cups white sugar 4 tablespoons flour, lemon
Recipe by 1/2 cup lemon juice juice and lemon rind for at
RCFoodie 1 tablespoon lemon zest least 1 minute. Pour the
mixture over the baked
Ingredients: Directions: crust. Bake the bars another
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour Preheat oven to 350 20 minutes, or until the
1/2 cup confectioners’ degrees F (175 degrees lemon topping has set.
sugar C). Bake 15 to 20 minutes Sprinkle with confectioner’s
1 cup butter, softened or until golden brown. sugar when cooled. Enjoy! Q

These recipes are shared at Allrecipes.com. Check out more on our Pinterest page! (www.pinterest.com/houseboatmag)

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM MARCH | APRIL 2018 39