Living afloat

The story of the Luxe Motor MS Watergeus and how to convert a Dutch barge into a houseboat

Wheelhouse

• See also: Wheelhouses on barges

Description

The wheelhouse is built above the engine room. The wooden construction can be taken off, so it can more easily pass through low bridges. Since it hasn't been taken off in the last 20 years I wouldn't like to try it.

Wheelhouse and blue board in December 2006

The wheelhouse as she looks in March 2007

The wheelhouse has a big bench and a wooden hatch to go down in the back accommodation. Next to the steering wheel is the control panel with information on engine and generator. There is also a bilge alarm and gas detection.

Wheel, control panel and Sailor RT144 radio

Future

The wheelhouse needs a lot of attention in the future. The bench will get a nice table in the middle, all wires for electricity and control panel have to be replaced. The wheelhouse needs to be sanded outside and inside. The roof will be replaced, since it is leaking on several places.

New electricity (220v), fire extinguishers and curtains will be added in the near future.