The Truth About Living on a Boat in Groningen
The Truth About Living on a Boat in Groningen
Ever wondered what it's like to live on the canals?
Now, the idea of living on the water may sound great.
You’re close to nature, cruising through the city, and living a lifestyle straight out of some romantic movie.
But does the dream of boat living truly match up to reality?
So where did this all start?
Have you ever wondered how the Dutch came to look at canals and think, "free real estate"?
The practice of turning boats into homes dates to the 17th century, with mobile traders traveling through the canals from city to city. These traders, notorious for their black-market dealings and constant feuds with the city's authorities, found the canals of Groningen an ideal escape route. Living on a boat allowed for a quick getaway, leaving behind nothing but waves and a few disgruntled officials.
The Woonschepen boats, those rickety wooden relics you'd expect to see in a museum, have now given way to modern steel beasts (Arkens) equipped with all the luxuries of a normal home. They’ve got plumbing, electricity, internet and the freedom to customize your floating den however you see fit.
Want to paint it neon green and host rooftop barbecues? Go for it.
It’s not all sunshine and rainbows…
However, whilst being able to sail through Groningen's canals in your house sounds ideal, it comes with its own set of challenges.
For starters, there’s around 60 bridges that you’ll have to wait for to open every single time. You thought traffic existed only on the roads?
Plus, to register the boat as your address, you must receive a permit called ligplaats which ties the boat to a particular location. That way you can park it (when you’re not away waiting for bridges to open) and receive mail.
That’s not to mention your battle with mother nature. Boats rock (quite literally). While most of the time it’s barely noticeable, during strong winds and storms you’ll definitely feel the waves. It’s not for those who get seasick easy.
And water can always be destructive. Apart from the literal possibility of your house sinking, there will always be dampness and mold to fend off.
A better lifestyle
This is not to scare you away from the houseboating experience, as it certainly has its own charm that the liveaboards swear by. Beyond just the closeness to nature, the unique living challenges that boat living presents has created a community feel you won’t find anywhere else.
Plus, the boats are self-sufficient and can create their own energy from solar power, and this is cool. Because being environmentally conscious is cool.
So is simple living. You simply can’t have too much stuff on a boat, which makes you selective and purposeful with your spending.
What does this mean? Savings.
Plus, no dealing with annoying landlords and those steep energy bills.
You get to travel the city at will, save yourself some money, and embrace a new lifestyle as a liveaboard.
And if none of that’s convinced you, take a look at this photo.
Can you imagine waking up to a better view?