The van life trend has taken the world by storm, as well as the downsizing wave. People no longer want to comply with location restraints and are more focused on freedom, including from a financial point of view. “Go anywhere, and live debt-free,” seems to be the motto of many folks who swap their houses or apartments for mobile homes.
A tiny mobile home doesn’t necessarily have to be one with wheels. If you choose to live at sea, a smaller boat that’s easy to maneuver and maintain can become a perfect minimalistic, off-grid home. A 33-year-old writer and illustrator from the UK had the courage to make this shift on her own and is currently living on board a 32-foot (9.7 meters) canal boat or narrowboat called the Leviathan.
In a recent interview, Elizabeth Earle shared that it took two years to renovate and decorate the boat she had purchased in 2019 for only $5,000 (£3,800). The boat needed extensive work, which was done by professionals, and, together with Elizabeth’s redecorating, it cost about $16,000 (£12,000). But it was worth it since she now saves considerable amounts by not having to pay rent and the associated bills.
The Leviathan can be compared to some of the more minimalistic tiny homes, not just because of its size (still, big enough for Elizabeth and her dog) but also because of its rustic amenities. Elizabeth keeps warm with the help of a log burner and uses a camp stove for cooking. In her own words, she hasn’t gotten the gas and hot water “sorted” yet, so she’s currently using the facilities at the Mancetter marina, where her boat is docked.
Unlike other folks who have gone completely off-grid, by sailing their vessels wherever they want, Elizabeth doesn’t yet enjoy the same freedom. Her marina spot offers considerable advantages, but it also comes with taxes, in addition to her monthly fees for the boating license and boat insurance.
At least for now, the British author is happy to be living on board the Leviathan together with her dog and isn’t affected by this Spartan lifestyle. If some people can live inside their SUVs, turning a boat into a permanent residence doesn’t sound that bad.
Otilia believes that if it’s eco, green, or groundbreaking, people should know about it (especially if it's got wheels or wings). Working in online media for over five years, she's gained a deeper perspective on how people everywhere can inspire each other. Full profile
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