Frequently Asked Questions

Learn All About Our Custom Houseboats

We know that exploring life on the water raises lots of great questions. Whether you’re curious about custom houseboats, want to understand how they work, or are ready to take the next step toward owning your own luxury floating home, we’re here to help! Our FAQ section brings together clear, helpful answers so you can feel confident exploring our offerings. These questions are designed to guide you through the most common topics we hear from future owners and waterfront lifestyle seekers. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, feel free to contact us! We’re always happy to help with more details. 

Q: What is a custom floating house or houseboat? 
A: A custom houseboat is a floating dwelling that is designed to meet your lifestyle needs on the water. You can choose floorplans, finishes, and functional details to reflect how you plan to live, work, or vacation aboard. 
 
Q: What kinds of houseboats do you offer? 
A: Waterlodge offers customizable European-designed houseboats in a variety of sizes and layouts, including the Apart and Modern model lines. Our houseboats range from compact, easy-to-place models to larger luxury houseboats suitable for private ownership, marina developments, or rental investment. All models feature modern design, high-quality construction, and customizable interior and exterior options.
 
Q: How customizable are the houseboat interiors and layouts? 
A: Waterlodge houseboats are built with flexibility in mind. From open-concept living to multi-bedroom layouts, you can tailor features to suit your needs, whether you want a cozy floating retreat or ample space to host guests. 
 
Q: What distinguishes European houseboats from other models? 
A: European houseboat concepts are known for clean modern lines, smart use of space, and quality materials. Each Waterlodge is manufactured by La Mare Houseboats, a reputable European builder with over 15 years of experience in houseboat construction. 
 
Q: How can I see houseboats for sale? 
A: We maintain a current inventory of houseboats for sale, ranging in size and style. You can browse available models, schedule a tour at Harborside Marina in Clinton, CT, request a quote, or inquire about upcoming models and custom orders. 
 
Q: Are there financing options available? 
A: Yes. Waterlodge Houseboats qualify for traditional boat financing. We partner with Trident Funding, who typically offers 10–20-year terms with 30% down, making it easier to bring your waterfront lifestyle to life. 
 
Q: What is it like to live on one of your luxury houseboats? 
A: Life aboard a Waterlodge combines the comfort of a well-designed home with panoramic water views and direct access to the waterfront. Whether moored in a marina or exploring different destinations by water, you’re in a floating home that has been built for living, relaxing, and entertaining. 
 
Q: Can I move my houseboat to different locations? 
A: Absolutely! The fact that Waterlodge houseboats are BOATS first and foremost means you can cruise to new waterways, reposition with the weather, or visit different areas while enjoying all the comforts of your home. 
 
Q: How long does it take to build a Waterlodge?
A: Build time is 3–4 months, plus about 3 weeks for shipping and delivery. We keep you updated along the way, so you always know where your build stands.
 
Q: What sizes of houseboats do you offer?
A: We offer houseboats from 26’ to 50’. Each model can be customized with different layouts, finishes, and features so you can tailor it to the way you want to live on the water.
 
Q: How much can I customize my houseboat?
A: Our houseboats can be customized as much or as little as you’d like. You can stick with a standard layout, or you can get creative. We’ve built office layouts, walk-in closets, custom pantries, outdoor showers, specialty doors, accessibility-focused designs…the list goes on. If there’s something you’ve been imagining, we can usually make it happen.
 
Q: Do I need a special license to operate a houseboat?
A: No special “houseboat license” is needed. You just need a general boating license for your state. In CT, that means taking a DEEP-approved course and passing the test. Other states have similar requirements.
 
Q: Do I have to pay taxes on a houseboat?
A: No. Waterlodge products are registered as boats, so you pay boat sales tax (2.99% in CT) and that’s it. No property tax!
 
Q: What does shipping cost?
A: Shipping is always included in our base pricing. Depending on where you are located, we would have it shipped from the manufacturer in Poland directly to the closest port, then arrange for trucking and send our team to get the houseboat fully rigged and prepped.
 
Q: Do you offer developer pricing?
A: Yes. If you’re planning a rental fleet or a multi-unit community, we’re happy to talk through sizing, layouts, budgets, timelines, and put together a proposal. A quick intro call is the best place to start.
 
Q: How fast can your houseboats go?
A: They cruise comfortably at about 5–7 knots (6–8 mph). The goal isn’t speed but smooth, controlled movement for repositioning, traveling between harbors, or enjoying a slow scenic cruise.
 
Q: Can they handle the open water?
A: They can, within reason. Waterlodges are rated for seas up to about 1 meter (roughly 3 ft), which means you pick your travel days like any boater. We regularly make trips from Clinton to Essex, Mystic, Newport, and even Block Island.
 
Q: Are houseboats built for year-round living?
A: Yes. With the right insulation and heating options (including radiant heated floors), they’re designed to stay comfortable in all four seasons, in both salt and fresh water. Many owners use their Waterlodge as a full-time residence or a seasonal floating home. These luxury houseboats are designed for comfort, whether you’re on vacation or living aboard. 
 
Q: Where can I keep my Waterlodge? Will marinas allow it?
A: Absolutely. Most marinas welcome them. We have owners across CT, NY, RI, NJ, MA, and FL. If you need help choosing a marina, we can point you in the right direction based on where you plan to keep yours.
 
Q: Can I get mail while living on a houseboat?
A: Yes. Every marina handles mail a little differently, but you can usually set up pickup at the marina office, use a PO Box, or have things sent to a family/friend’s address.
 
Q: Do you rent your houseboats?
A: We do. Our 1-bedroom Apart M rents seasonally in Block Island and Mystic, with another rental opening on Saratoga Lake this summer. Renting is a great way to get a feel for the lifestyle before buying.
 
Q: Are Waterlodge houseboats insurable?
Yes. They’re insured similarly to traditional powerboats. Most major marine insurance providers write policies for Waterlodge models, and we can recommend brokers who understand houseboat coverage.
 
Q: How do utilities work on board?
A: Waterlodges connect to shore power and water at the marina, just like a traditional boat. Heating, AC, and hot water run off the onboard systems, and waste is handled through a standard marine holding tank that can be pumped out anywhere. If you add our solar package, the houseboat can also run fully off-grid for up to a week, depending on your usage. It’s a great option for quieter coves, eco-focused living, or simply having backup power when you want it.
 
Q: What kind of upkeep should I expect?
A: Think of it as similar to maintaining a regular powerboat: engine service, winterizing (if needed), bottom cleaning, and basic housekeeping. The HDPE pontoons and galvanized steel frame require very little long-term maintenance.
 
Q: How do I become a Waterlodge dealer?
A: We’re currently expanding across the U.S. and partnering with marinas and waterfront businesses who want to offer Waterlodge houseboats in their markets. If you’re interested in becoming a dealer, the best first step is to reach out and tell us a little about your location, your customer base, and your goals.