From Cargo to Cozy How a Giant Shipping Vessel Became a Stunning 3-Bedroom Home
Wow. Such an incredible conversion.
Before it settled at Canary Wharf in The Dutch Luxemotor vessel now boasts three well-appointed bedrooms, a stylishly modern bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen, a character-rich wheelhouse, and an inviting outdoor deck perfect for open-air lounging. this towering cargo vessel charted countless voyages through Europe’s waterways. Then, in 1988, its seafaring days came to an end ushering in a dramatic metamorphosis. Retired from duty, the ship was reborn as an opulent, three-bedroom floating residence. Step aboard and explore the transformation within.
The Dutch Luxemotor vessel now boasts three well-appointed bedrooms, a stylishly modern bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen, a character-rich wheelhouse, and an inviting outdoor deck perfect for open-air lounging.
Though the vessel no longer hauls freight, it remains entirely seaworthy ready to glide through the waters should its owners choose to set sail. That said, anchoring a floating residence of this magnitude might prove to be quite the logistical conundrum.
Step inside and you’re greeted by soaring ceilings, a seamless open-concept layout, and exquisite oak paneling that adds warmth and timeless elegance to the space.
With royal blue carpeting underfoot and crisp white ceilings above, the houseboat effortlessly evokes a nautical charm—tailor-made for waterside living. Oversized skylights punctuate the ceiling, ushering in generous beams of sunlight by day, or offering a tranquil soundtrack of raindrops during stormy spells.
This expansive central space houses the dining area, lounge, and kitchen each blending seamlessly into the next. Spanning the entire elongated frame of the ship, the open layout transforms what was once a vessel for cargo into an inviting, warm-hearted home.
The cargo ship home’s kitchen is larger than most traditional homes.
The kitchen offers an abundance of countertop real estate, outfitted with sleek, modern appliances and a wealth of cabinetry for seamless storage. Whether whipping up a weekday meal or hosting guests, this spacious culinary hub makes it all feel effortless. Black and white checkered tile flooring injects a playful, retro flair that elevates the room’s personality.
The master bedroom exudes the grandeur of an upscale estate, offering a generous expanse of space more commonly found in a luxury mansion.
On the upper level, the home reveals its trio of tranquil bedrooms. The most spacious among them is a study in understated elegance dressed in calming neutral tones, illuminated by recessed lighting, and framed by windows that stretch across both walls, bathing the room in natural light. A cozy seating nook invites quiet moments, while plush carpeting adds a layer of comfort underfoot. This sanctuary also offers direct access to the ship’s wheelhouse, blending luxury with a touch of nautical heritage.
Though the room spans a considerable footprint, its furnishings remain intentionally sparse. A queen-size bed anchors the space, flanked by modest nightstands and a petite table allowing the openness to breathe. It’s the perfect retreat for the captain to steal a moment of rest while the skipper holds the course. And naturally, the helm remains within sight, ensuring command is never too far away.
Though the smaller bedroom is short on windows, its bright white walls, warm wood trim, and thoughtfully placed LED lighting work in harmony to create an airy, open ambiance that defies its compact size.

This uniquely contoured room features a queen-size bed, accompanied by a built-in wardrobe and streamlined cabinetry. The furnishings follow a minimalist philosophy, while decorative accents are nearly absent allowing the natural elegance of the wood trim to serve as its own quiet, architectural statement.
A peek into the bathroom reveals the continuation of the white-and-wood motif, seamlessly carried into this serene, spa-like retreat.
The houseboat’s sole bathroom embraces a humble, unembellished design. Outfitted solely with the essentials, this space is both utilitarian and thoughtfully restrained. A few small, vibrant picture frames punctuate the simplicity offering just enough charm to soften its otherwise minimalist appeal.
You might be astonished to discover just how many cargo ships have undergone jaw-dropping transformations into extraordinary residences. Visit River Homes to explore a fascinating collection of these one-of-a-kind conversions.
Before docking at Canary Wharf in London, this giant cargo ship made many journeys across European waters. But in 1988, it was taken out of commission and transformed into a luxurious three-bedroom home on water. Let’s take a look inside.
The Dutch Luximotor ship now has three bedrooms, one bathroom, kitchen, wheelhouse, and outdoor deck.
And although the ship no longer moves cargo, it is still fully-functional and could take to the waters if the owners wanted to; however, we imagine that finding a place to park this massive home would be a challenge.
Inside, the home features impressively tall ceilings, an open-floorplan, and gorgeous oak paneling.
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Royal blue carpet and white ceilings truly give the unique houseboat a nautical feel, perfect for a life on the water. Also on the ceiling are multiple large skylights that let in lots of sunlight, or allow you to listen to the pitter patter of the rain, depending on the weather.Advertisement
This main room is also home to the dining room, living room, and kitchen. Each room flows directly into the next, taking up the entire length of the cargo ship’s long and narrow body. Once carrying products and goods, now, the cargo hull is a cozy living space.
The cargo ship home’s kitchen is larger than most traditional homes.
The kitchen boasts lots of counter space, modern appliances, and plenty of cabinets for storage. Cooking and entertaining is certainly not an issue in this expansive kitchen and open floor plan home. The black and white tiled floors add a fun decorative element to the room.
The master bedroom looks like it belongs in a mansion with all of its square footage.
Upstairs, you’ll find the impressive home’s three bedrooms. The largest of the bedrooms boasts neutral colors, recessed lighting, windows that line both sides of the room, a small seating area, and plush carpet throughout. From this room, you also have access to the wheelhouse.
Even though this room is quite expansive, the decor and furniture were kept to a minimum. Just a queen-size bed, a couple of nightstands, and a small table occupy the open space. The captain can take a quick nap while his skipper temporarily takes over. Of course, the captain can still keep an eye on the helm from this bedroom.
Although a smaller bedroom is lacking in windows, the white walls with wood trim and LED lighting make the room feel bright and spacious.
This interestingly-shaped room also has a queen-size bed, as well as a built-in wardrobe and cabinets. Furniture was also kept minimalistic in this room, and decor is almost non-existent as the wood trim creates a design of its own.
A glimpse into the bathroom shows that the white and wood continues into this space as well.
The houseboat’s one and only bathroom was kept modest and simple. There is nothing but the necessities in this simple, functional, and practical room. Small, colorful pictures frames add a bit of decor and character to the otherwise basic space.
You’d be surprised how many other cargo ships have been converted into incredible homes. Head over to River Homes UK to take a tour of some other unique conversions.
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Article Sources: River Homes UK