This place is beyond cool!
Nothing gets House Crazy Sarah’s adrenaline pulsing like a historic place (a ferry boat) turned into something unexpected (a house), especially when is it done in a funky, artistic way.
This old ferry boat currently serves as the residence of artists Richard and Victoria MacKenzie-Childs, who have lived in the ship docked around New York City for the last 15 years.
Built in 1907, the Yankee Ferry is the oldest existing Ellis Island ferry.
The ferry was originally built in Philadelphia, PA. Then named the Machigonne, the boat first ferried people, cargo, and livestock to and from Portland, Maine and the Casco Bay Islands. It then did a military stint in World War 1. The boat was decommissioned after WWI, and then purchased for use in New York Harbor to ferry new immigrants from Ellis Island.
This fabulous piece of maritime history is looking for a new captain: it is listed for sale for $1.25 million.
Richard and Victoria Mackenzie-Childs bought the Yankee Ferry in 1983 and began restoring it and turning it into their artistic dream home.
The 150-foot historic vessel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Have a look inside…
Fun and whimsy abound in this floating artist’s paradise.
So much of the original character has also been preserved.
The ferry boat has a total of 5,000 square feet of living space and can sleep up to 20 people!
The kitchen is quirky with some great vintage pieces.
This multi-level houseboat has a total of 11 bedrooms and even has a ballroom that can hold 150 guests.
The boat-turned residence could also be used as an event venue, restaurant, or business. It is currently docked at the Henry Street Pier.
This is place is just so much fun to look at!
Look at this dreamy bunk:
Fabulous!
The listing doesn’t say how many bathrooms are on the ship, but look at these original toilet stalls:
Check out the vintage luggage collection below:
Here’s a peek at the ship’s innards on the lowest level:
The Yankee offers loads and charm and history and is patiently waiting for just the right new owner to come along.
Think of the possibilities for this amazing old vessel!
The view from the water is always the best.
Sources:
https://ny.curbed.com/2017/1/12/14256808/ellis-island-ferry-house-boat-nyc
https://q1057.com/new-yorks-oldest-existing-ellis-island-ferry-is-now-a-spectacular-home/
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How much are the yearly docking rights ?
Probably pretty steep!!