Tom Sawyer Boats – self-sufficient houseboat with aluminum hull

by F. Zuber - 2025-12-07

The TS1000 Prime combines solid construction, well-thought-out room layout, and self-sufficient technology. Developed by Tom Sawyer Boats, this floating home is based on a patented pontoon system and offers a fully-fledged living solution for a wide range of target groups on 30 m². The equipment allows for flexible use – whether as a vacation boat or a temporary mobile home.

TS1000 Prime houseboat Mecklenburg Lake District

TS1000 Prime with 30 m² of living space and two bedrooms

The TS1000 Prime's interior design is geared towards efficient use and comfort. The living space of around 30 square meters is divided into two bedrooms, a bathroom with shower and flush toilet, and a central living area. The kitchen is equipped with an energy-saving 40-liter refrigerator and a gas stove. The latter is powered by two bottles, one of which is always kept in reserve. A sofa bed in the living area can be converted into two additional berths if required, so that the boat can accommodate a total of six people. In the front area, the helm is located next to a large dining table, combining functionality and everyday practicality. The interior walls are made of 21 mm thick wood that has been sanded and varnished several times, resulting in a warm, cozy atmosphere with a maritime character.

Tom Sawyer houseboats BOOT FUN 2025

Roof terrace, dining table, and helm station on the TS1000 Prime

A key feature is the roof terrace, which measures over 20 m². It is accessible via a sturdy staircase. The elevated position allows for a better view and creates distance from everyday life on board below. The combination of retreat, steering area, and living space makes the TS1000 Prime particularly versatile – whether as a vacation home or long-term waterfront residence.

Tom Sawyer TS1000 vacation accommodation helm dining room

Self-sufficient energy supply through solar panels and gas stove

The TS1000 Prime is designed for self-sufficient living. Solar panels on the roof provide energy that is stored in a powerful battery system. This supply is sufficient to operate the cooling, lighting, and other electrical consumers for several days. The refrigerator has been deliberately replaced by a cool box to keep power consumption low – cold air stays down, which is more energy-efficient. Cooking is done in the traditional way with gas. In combination with water and sewage systems, this makes it possible to stay independently far away from marinas. For many users, this freedom is the decisive advantage over conventional houseboats.

Tom Sawyer houseboats living area kitchen
Cool box in houseboat keeps power consumption low

TS1000 Prime aluminum hull with 37 PE pontoons and high stability

The technical basis of the houseboat is a support system made entirely of aluminum, which is bolted to a total of 37 PE pontoons – a patent owned by Tom Sawyer Boats. Eight pontoons per side, four rows, plus five in the middle row provide more than ten tons of buoyancy. Depending on the equipment, the boat itself weighs between five and a half and six tons, leaving sufficient reserve for payload and stability. The charter version of the TS1000 Prime is powered by a 15 hp Yamaha thruster. For more precise maneuvering, two additional electric motors are used as bow thrusters. This technology makes handling easier, especially for beginners when docking or turning. The outer walls are made of weatherproof Dibond panels, which have proven themselves many times over in outdoor applications.

TS1000 Prime maneuvering for beginners bow thruster

Rent or buy: TS1000 Prime from Tom Sawyer Boats

The gross sales price of the TS1000 Prime is €99,900. This positions the boat as an affordable alternative for people who want to live on the water permanently or temporarily. At the same time, Tom Sawyer Boats also offers rentals – for example, on the Mecklenburg Lake District from €1,150 per week. The target group is deliberately kept open: the spectrum ranges from families with small children to older charter guests. The focus is on experiencing nature, flexibility, and a solid technical basis.