Brisbane's Housing Crisis Sparks Creative Solutions: Trading Apartments for Boats
Imagine calling a boat home. That's the reality for some Brisbane residents as the city's housing costs soar. Meet Jordan Koursaris, who, after a life-changing divorce in 2024, decided to chart a new course. He swapped his apartment for a 1966 boat named Mary Rose, docked at Kangaroo Point's Dockside Marina.
But here's where it gets interesting: living on a boat isn't just about saving money. It's a lifestyle choice, a dream come true for Koursaris. At $1,455 per month, including utilities, it's a more affordable option than renting an apartment in the area, which averages $720 per week, excluding additional expenses.
And this is the part most people miss—the challenges and quirks of boat life. Mary Rose is cozy, measuring 8 meters long and 2.5 meters wide. Koursaris has to be mindful of his headspace, and his bed, built into the bow, even had a wood fungus issue. He's also faced power outages and solar panel damage.
Koursaris' story is not unique. His neighbor, Josh Goodswen, also recently divorced, joined the boat life, attracted by the economic benefits. Goodswen estimates he spends a third of his previous living expenses. Sam Dunmore, a 22-year-old retail worker, lives on his parents' boat, choosing this unique lifestyle over a traditional apartment.
The appeal is clear: with Brisbane's weekly rent averaging $708 and property prices skyrocketing, boat living offers a cost-effective alternative. Cotality's Tim Lawless highlights the stark reality: renters in Brisbane spend over a third of their income on rent, with costs rising 49% in five years. Buying property is a distant dream for many.
So, is boat life the solution? Dockside Marina manager Ken Allsop confirms an increase in permanent boat residents, with boats up to 25 meters long. For Koursaris, it's been a positive experience, but he acknowledges it's not without its challenges. He plans to upgrade to a larger boat, but could he sail back to land one day? Only time will tell.
What do you think? Is living on a boat a practical solution to the housing crisis, or a temporary adventure? Share your thoughts in the comments!
