Bates Wharf are leading boat dealers and traders in the UK. Thanks to a new partnership with Bluefield Houseboats, we are proud to stock a high-quality range of luxury boathouses crafted by the renowned manufacturer.

Explore the unique opportunity to own a luxurious houseboat in the UK with Bates Wharf. As long-standing members of the British Marine Federation, we have built a strong reputation across the UK for delivering exceptional customer service for discerning UK buyers. Our collection offers the perfect balance of comfort and style, showcasing some of the finest, most technologically advanced floating homes found anywhere in the UK.

Our collection features the sleek C Series, as well as the innovative M and R Series, each masterfully designed to offer top-tier living experiences on the water. Come and visit our show homes at Limehouse Marina in London. Our friendly and attentive staff can give you a fully guided tour of our most recent models, allowing you to get up close and personal with this luxury brand.

Bates Wharf is proud to be a trusted UK sales partner for Bluefield. We act as a specialist broker for this award-winning British manufacturer. Bluefield designs and manufactures premium floating homes that offer the same level of comfort and style that you would expected from luxury, modern land-based apartments.

Why Invest In a Houseboat?

Whether purchasing as a home or as an investment opportunity, there are plenty of reasons to invest:

✔ Unique Waterside Lifestyle: Houseboats offer the unique opportunity to pursue waterside living, either as a permanent home or holiday home. You can enjoy stunning waterfront views, become immersed in the calming sounds of the water, enjoy alfresco dining, and enjoy a unique lifestyle like no other. Perfect for nature-lovers, or those who value their connection with the outdoors, it's perfect for those into hiking, biking, mountaineering, and other outdoor hobbies, putting you in touch with your passions.

✔ Eco-friendly Living: Bluefield's range is designed with sustainability in mind, offering low-impact living without compromising comfort. Features like solar power, efficient water systems, and eco-conscious construction allow you to reduce energy consumption and live harmoniously with nature, making your waterside lifestyle both luxurious and responsible.

✔ Investment Opportunity: These floating apartments offer strong income potential through short-term and long-term rental opportunities. Imagine water park rental or holiday location rental: with growing demand for unique waterside stays, boathouses are an attractive alternative to traditional property investments.

Why Purchase Through Bates Wharf?

As one of the UK’s most established marine brokers, Bates Wharf offers a smooth and seamless transaction for those interested in purchasing a houseboat. We provide expert guidance, and personalised purchasing support to ensure you have a seamless experience from start to finish.

Here’s why UK buyers choose Bates Wharf:

✔ Prime Mooring Options: Bates Wharf offers mooring in prime UK locations, including Limehouse Marina in London. We therefore make waterside living in the heart of the capital a feasible living option, turning a lifestyle dream into a reality! Enjoy direct access to the city’s vibrant culture, restaurants, and attractions, while living in a peaceful waterside setting.

✔ Industry Knowledge: Our experienced team understands both marine regulations and residential requirements, ensuring your purchase is compliant, and that all legal work paperwork is handled with expert care.

✔ End-to-End Services: We assist with site suitability, marina placement, transport, installation, and ongoing advice to make the transition to waterside living straightforward.

✔ After-Sales Care: From maintenance guidance to marina support and ongoing ownership advice, we remain on hand long after your purchase is complete. Our friendly team is only ever a phone call away!

✔ Proven Heritage: With over 100 years of family ownership, and operation from four UK locations—Chertsey, Eastbourne, Poole, and Southampton—our experience in marine sales is extensive. We pride ourselves on our first-class customer service, and we never walk away from a deal unless our customers are 100% happy and confident.

FAQs

How much do houseboats cost in the UK?

In the UK, houseboats typically cost £125,000 for smaller, or pre-owned boathouses, up to £400,000+ for larger, fully residential models with premium specifications. Pricing varies based on size, layout, level of customisation, flotation type, and whether the home is intended for permanent living, leisure use, or commercial operation. For current availability and pricing, contact the Bates Wharf team today.

Do houseboats need planning permission in the UK?

Planning requirements vary by location and usage. Permanent residential houseboats often require consent from the local authority and marina operator. We can advise based on your intended location.

Can I live on a houseboat all year round?

Yes! Many modern boathouses, particularly Bluefield models, are designed for full-time, year-round living with proper insulation, heating, and safety systems.

Do houseboats require a boating licence?

Most static or non-powered variants do not require a boating licence, though marina and mooring agreements will apply. At Bates Wharf, we can guide you through all of the requirements.

Can I move a houseboat to a different location?

Yes! Many can be towed by water or transported by road if required, subject to size and local permissions.

What ongoing costs should I expect?

Costs typically include mooring fees, utilities, insurance, and routine maintenance. These are often lower than comparable waterfront property costs.

Explore our stunning collection of luxury boathouses today, and get in touch with us today to arrange a viewing or to find out more.