Living on a Boat: What Is Allowed and What Is Not?

Is Permanent Living on a Boat Allowed?

Permanent and legal residence on a vessel requires an officially designated residential mooring. These moorings are allocated by local authorities and are usually equipped with basic utilities such as electricity and water. At such locations, houseboats, floating homes and other floating residential structures may be berthed.

The number of available residential moorings in the Netherlands is limited. A significant proportion is located in Amsterdam, while availability elsewhere is often scarce. Finding a suitable berth may therefore take time and costs can vary considerably by location. Thorough research is essential before purchasing a liveaboard vessel.

Living in a Marina

Many pleasure craft are suitable for long-term occupancy. Whether permanent residence in a marina is permitted depends on the zoning designation of the marina:

• Residential zoning: permanent living is permitted and official registration is possible.
• Recreational zoning: permanent residence is formally not permitted.

In other words: the marina’s zoning status is decisive.

Marinas with Recreational Zoning

In marinas designated for recreational use, permanent living is generally not allowed. In practice, exceptions may occur, but only with the explicit consent of the marina operator. Such consent does not grant the right to official registration.

As residents are legally required to be reachable by public authorities, a registered postal address is mandatory in these cases.

Residential Address vs Postal Address

With an officially registered residential mooring, the vessel qualifies as a legal residential address. This address can be used for municipal registration and administrative purposes.

Without such a mooring, a postal address is required. A postal address is used solely for correspondence and does not constitute a place of residence. Dutch law requires either a residential or postal address when staying in the country for more than four months within a six-month period.

Applying for a Postal Address

A postal address can be arranged through the local municipality. This may be a municipal address or a private address (for example, a family member’s residence). In the latter case, written consent from the principal occupant and copies of identification documents are required.

Choose an address that is practical for regular mail collection.

Costs of Living on a Boat

Living afloat involves both fixed and variable costs, including:

• Mooring fees
• Utilities (electricity, water)
• Local taxes
• Insurance
• Maintenance and upkeep

Adequate insurance against damage, fire and theft is essential. Depending on the vessel type and location, monthly costs may be lower than those of a conventional home. Prime locations, particularly in major cities, tend to be significantly more expensive.

Year-Round Living Afloat

Permanent residence requires higher standards of comfort and equipment than recreational use. Important considerations include insulation, heating, sanitary facilities, living space and storage. Internet connectivity is often regarded as a basic necessity.

For winter habitation, proper heating systems and possibly double glazing are advisable. Security is also important, as the vessel serves as a full-time residence.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Living Afloat

Buying a Liveaboard Vessel

One of the key considerations when purchasing a liveaboard vessel is the availability of a suitable berth. Many municipalities operate waiting lists or apply strict regulations. Early consultation with local authorities or marina operators is strongly recommended.

Types of Liveaboard Vessels

Liveaboard options include sailing yachts, motor yachts, purpose-built houseboats, converted commercial vessels and floating homes. Some owners choose to convert former cargo vessels into bespoke floating residences.

While offering maximum design freedom, such projects require time, investment and professional guidance.

The Importance of Professional Advice

Engaging an independent expert when purchasing a liveaboard vessel is strongly advised. A professional inspection and valuation provide insight into the technical condition, maintenance requirements and potential hidden defects.