When we think of residential real estate, houses, apartments, and condos are usually what come to mind. In Brooklyn, there’s another type available. Instead of being situated on a lot of grass and concrete, it floats on water.
The historic Yankee Ferry, which has since been converted into a houseboat, has been put up for sale by Richard Childs and Victoria McKenzie, who purchased it in 2003. Price tag: $1.25 million. It’s currently docked at the Henry Street Pier in Red Hook, Brooklyn. Let’s explore this iconic houseboat.
All photos are used with permission from TopTenRealEstateDeals.com
Living quarters on boats are often cramped, with one space frequently being used for multiple purposes. That’s definitely not the case with this craft. It’s 147 feet long. With a 29-foot beam and an 8-foot draft and steel hull, the Yankee Ferry retains some of its original design, although its interior was transformed to match the owners’ artistic style. They utilized all available rooms to set up lodgings, converting the hold and wheelhouse into living space — several rooms that are far from small. These quarters span multiple levels.
On the lowest part of the ship, you’ll find a bedroom and a utility room that was the engine room at one time. The General Motors V12 engine here gives a nod to the original use of this area. What was once the wheelhouse is now used as private quarters for guests, complete with a small galley for meal-prep. The couple dedicated the ship’s hold for their creative pursuits — a practical purpose since they’re both artists. The workroom leads the way to the spacious living area.
The second deck looks like something you might have seen on The Titanic. There’s a grand ballroom with a gimbaled banquet table that can be raised or lowered by a rope. This beautiful home also boasts an ornately-decorated living room, informal dining room, a kitchen, and two bathrooms.
The ship has come a long way since it first hit the water more than 100 years ago. It was first used to ferry passengers into New York City. Then it was put to work during World War I, transporting supplies and military members. In subsequent years, it was stationed at Ellis Island, bringing immigrants to American soil. The boat has also been used as a floating hotel and, not surprisingly, an Airbnb rental.
About the McKenzie-Childs Couple
Victoria MacKenzie and Richard Childs are from opposite ends of the country. (She hails from San Francisco, and he was born in Massachusetts). They met in college while studying ceramics. They lived in the UK for a while but eventually settled in New York. When their daughter, Heather, wanted to attend ballet school abroad, they didn’t have the funds to pay for her travel there.
She raised the money she needed for her departure but didn’t have enough to return home. To help her out, they began selling their unique pottery. Their initial efforts eventually gave birth to the MacKenzie-Childs Company, which sells one-of-a-kind ceramics and furniture.
