Grain barge becomes great home as luxury vessel moored on the Thames goes up for sale for £1.5million

Daily Mail​

18-06-2025

A grain barge reborn as a luxury floating home on the Thames is on the market for £1.5million.
Moored on a long-term residential berth at St Mary's Wandsworth Pier in southwest London, the impressive 131ft Belgian Spitz vessel has been transformed into a four-bedroom houseboat.
It is complete with panoramic Thames views, bespoke interiors, and modern comforts designed for year-round living.
Owners David Karat, from the US, and his partner moved into the barge in August 2021, after its initial conversion by previous owners.
Since then, they've poured time, effort and 'more than they had intended' into upgrades, but Mr Karat insists it was money well spent.
He said: 'The owners before us had done all the hard work of sourcing this amazing grain barge from Antwerp and creating the foundation that we built upon.
'The layout and position of the boat was perfect for updating to the most modern and advanced systems and materials.
'In all we spent more than we intended. Hundreds of thousands of pounds that would have been wasted on other things were funnelled this way instead.'
Now, the couple is moving to New York, and are putting their remarkable home on the market.
Mr Karat said: 'Nothing compares to life on the water. The fresh air, the sounds of the water, the wildlife and the community are special and provide a unique experience.
'[It's] an oasis with really easy access by Thames Clipper from the Wharf to anywhere in Central London. Or the train from Clapham Junction is a short walk away. It is special.'
Originally built to carry grain, the Spitz barge now boasts bespoke finishes, high-spec insulation, and an automated waste pump-out system, ideal for riverside living in all seasons.
A decked garden at the entrance offers an inviting welcome, while inside, the open-plan kitchen and saloon provide plenty of space for day-to-day life and entertaining.
Below deck, the main living room features warm wood panelling and a wood-burning stove that makes the space feel homely and rich in character.
The barge includes four en-suite double bedrooms, the master suite being a highlight.
Measuring 25ft 9in by 15ft 7in, it comes with its own stove, walk-in wardrobe, and a luxurious en-suite bathroom with a roll-top bath and separate shower.
The couple spent 'more than they had intended' upgrading the vessel but they say that every penny was worth it. Pictured: One of the bedrooms
Up top, the original wheelhouse has been redesigned as a stylish reception room, opening onto a generous sun deck, perfect for taking in the riverside views.
A designated parking space is included, and residents benefit from a 24-hour concierge at the pier.
Between Battersea and Wandsworth bridges, the home is near shops, bars and restaurants, with easy links to Fulham and Chelsea.
'I am heading back to the US to live, so [I] wish to leave it to someone else to enjoy.'
With a rare combination of history, design, and location, the former grain barge now offers one lucky buyer a chance to call the Thames home.