Brisbane residents are embracing an unconventional solution to skyrocketing housing costs. But is this a sustainable trend or a temporary escape? The city's rising rent prices force residents to get creative.
Jordan Koursaris, a Brisbane resident, has found an innovative way to live his dream life. After his divorce in 2024, he decided to leave his apartment and embark on a unique journey. He purchased a 1966 boat named Mary Rose for $18,500 and made it his new home.
Koursaris' boat is docked at Kangaroo Point's Dockside Marina, where he pays $1,455 monthly for the berth, power, and water. With additional expenses for storage and parking, his total monthly costs are still under $2,000, a fraction of the average rent in the area.
But here's where it gets interesting: living on a boat isn't just about saving money for Koursaris. It's a long-held dream come true. He wanted to test out this lifestyle, and despite the challenges, he's enjoying the experience.
Mary Rose is cozy, measuring 8 meters long and 2.5 meters wide. Koursaris has to be mindful of his headspace while moving around. The boat features a built-in bed with an emergency escape hatch and a compact living area with creative storage solutions. He even uses a miniature rice cooker and hot plate set, adding a touch of humor to his daily routine.
Living on a boat comes with its share of difficulties. Koursaris has dealt with a wood fungus under his bed, power outages, and hail-damaged solar panels. However, he remains determined to make the most of this adventure.
Koursaris' story is not unique. His neighbor, Josh Goodswen, also recently divorced, joined the boat-living community a month ago. Goodswen estimates he's saving a significant amount compared to his previous living expenses. He, too, sought an adventure and found it on the water.
Sam Dunmore, a 22-year-old retail worker, lives on his parents' boat. He chose this lifestyle to experience city life affordably. With weekly rent in Brisbane averaging $708 and prices rising, boat living offers a cost-effective alternative.
Cotality's research director, Tim Lawless, highlights the increasing cost of renting in Brisbane, with prices rising by nearly 50% in five years. Buying property is even more challenging, with average house prices reaching $1.13 million. In this context, living on a boat becomes an attractive option, despite its challenges.
Dockside Marina manager, Ken Allsop, confirms the growing trend, with a third of the boats permanently occupied by owners. He describes it as a 'waterfront apartment' lifestyle at a fraction of the cost.
As Koursaris plans to upgrade to a larger boat, he acknowledges that living on the water might not be a permanent solution. But for now, he's embracing the fun and unique experience.
And this is the part most people wonder about: Is this a viable long-term solution to the housing crisis, or a temporary escape from the rising costs of traditional housing? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
