Proudly Canadian

e‑Houseboats is built on Canadian values — ingenuity, self‑reliance, respect for nature, and a deep love of our lakes and rivers. Solar Drifter was designed, tested, and refined right here in Canada, inspired by the quiet beauty of our waterways and the spirit of those who explore them. Whether you’re building for weekend adventures or a simpler, more sustainable lifestyle, Solar Drifter reflects the best of what it means to be Canadian: practical, resourceful, and connected to the water.

Our Story

e‑Houseboats began as a personal project during the COVID‑19 shutdown, when the world slowed down and many of us rediscovered the value of simplicity, nature, and self‑sufficiency. As a retired naval officer with a lifelong passion for being on the water, I set out to design and build a solar‑powered houseboat that was affordable, comfortable, and environmentally responsible. The result was the first Solar Drifter — a proof‑of‑concept vessel built on the Ottawa River. Every lesson learned from that build, every improvement, and every refinement has been incorporated into the FREE DIY Build Plans now available to everyone. What started as one person’s project has grown into a mission: helping others experience the peace, freedom, and joy of life on the water.

Click Link Buttons Below to Expand Content

About e-Houseboats

e‑Houseboats provides FREE DIY Build Plans for our solar‑powered houseboat model, the Solar Drifter.

The plans were developed during the COVID‑19 shutdown by a retired naval officer with a lifelong passion for being on the water. A full proof‑of‑concept vessel was built and tested on the Ottawa River, and all lessons learned have been incorporated into the current plans.

Our Build Plans guide you from start to finish — from commonly available materials to a fully outfitted, comfortable, and environmentally responsible vessel.

We also offer optional Solar Drifter kits and services to help you get on the water faster.

For more information, contact us at SolarDrifter.info@e-houseboats.ca.

Vision

To make sustainable, affordable, water‑based living accessible to anyone with the desire to build it — empowering people to live closer to nature, reduce their environmental footprint, and experience the peace and freedom of life on the water.

Why Build a Solar Drifter?

Building a Solar Drifter isn’t just a project — it’s a lifestyle choice. Here’s why so many people are drawn to it:

Freedom on the Water - Explore lakes and rivers at your own pace. No marina fees. No fuel costs. No noise. Just quiet, solar‑powered cruising.
Affordable Access to Houseboat Living - Traditional houseboats can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. A DIY Solar Drifter costs a fraction of that — and you control every detail.
Sustainable and Nearly Carbon Neutral - Solar power handles most of your energy needs. Propane supports the rest. No black water. Minimal environmental impact.
Built for Beginners and Experts Alike - The plans are step‑by‑step, detailed, and designed for people with little or no construction experience. Experienced builders will appreciate the schematics and technical drawings.
A Project With Purpose - There’s something deeply rewarding about building your own vessel — and even more rewarding when it becomes a place for family, friends, and unforgettable memories.
Designed by Someone Who’s Done It - The FREE DIY Build Plan is based on a real proof‑of‑concept build, tested on the Ottawa River, refined through experience, and improved for the DIY community.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to build a Solar Drifter?
Costs vary depending on variant chosen, options, and local materials pricing. Most builders can complete a basic version for significantly less than a traditional houseboat.

How long does the build take?
Build time depends on your schedule, tools, and experience. Many builders complete major components over a summer season.

What tools do I need?
Mostly common hand tools and basic power tools. No specialized marine equipment is required. Tools used are identified in 'frequently used' & 'occasionally used' categories.

Is the Solar Drifter safe?
Yes — when built according to the plans. The design is stable, buoyant, and tested on real water. Safety considerations are included throughout the Build Plan.

Are the plans really free?
Absolutely. The goal is to make sustainable houseboat living accessible to everyone.

Can I customize the design?
Yes. Many builders personalize their Solar Drifter with insulation packages, solar upgrades, layout changes, and more.

Contact e-Houseboats

GET IN TOUCH!

DIY Build Plans Owner: Bernie Kraemer

314-2 Crandall St., Pembroke ON K8A-8G5

+1 (613) 281-6207

info@e-houseboats.ca

Mission

To provide clear, practical, and completely FREE DIY Build Plans that enable everyday people — regardless of skill level — to construct their own solar‑powered, self‑sustaining houseboat.

We share knowledge, tools, and real‑world experience to help builders create a safe, comfortable, environmentally responsible vessel that brings joy, independence, and adventure to their lives

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Download the FREE Solar Drifter DIY Build Plans and begin designing your own solar‑powered, self‑sustaining houseboat today.

Whether you’re dreaming of weekend escapes, off‑grid living, or a peaceful floating retreat, the Solar Drifter is your gateway to a simpler, more sustainable life on the water.

Our Values

Sustainability
We believe in living lightly on the water. Solar Drifter is designed to minimize environmental impact through solar power, efficient systems, and responsible waste management.

Accessibility
Everyone deserves the chance to enjoy life on the water. That’s why our DIY Build Plans are free, beginner‑friendly, and based on commonly available materials.

Community
We’re stronger together. e‑Houseboats is built on sharing knowledge, supporting DIY builders, and helping others succeed in their own projects.

Ingenuity
Canadian creativity runs deep. Solar Drifter reflects a practical, problem‑solving mindset — simple solutions, smart design, and real‑world testing.

Freedom
A houseboat isn’t just a vessel — it’s a way of life. Solar Drifter gives people the freedom to explore, relax, and reconnect with what matters most.

Click Link Buttons Below to Expand Content

About e-Houseboats

Contact e-Houseboats

GET IN TOUCH!

DIY Build Plans Owner: Bernie Kraemer

314-2 Crandall St., Pembroke ON K8A-8G5

+1 (613) 281-6207

info@e-houseboats.ca

Our Vision

Our Mission

Our Values

Sustainability
We believe in living lightly on the water. Solar Drifter is designed to minimize environmental impact through solar power, efficient systems, and responsible waste management.

Accessibility
Everyone deserves the chance to enjoy life on the water. That’s why our DIY Build Plans are free, beginner‑friendly, and based on commonly available materials.

Community
We’re stronger together. e‑Houseboats is built on sharing knowledge, supporting DIY builders, and helping others succeed in their own projects.

Ingenuity?
Canadian creativity runs deep. Solar Drifter reflects a practical, problem‑solving mindset — simple solutions, smart design, and real‑world testing.

Freedom
A houseboat isn’t just a vessel — it’s a way of life. Solar Drifter gives people the freedom to explore, relax, and reconnect with what matters most.

Why Build a Solar Drifter?

Building a Solar Drifter isn’t just a project — it’s a lifestyle choice. Here’s why so many people are drawn to it:

Freedom on the Water - Explore lakes and rivers at your own pace. No marina fees. No fuel costs. No noise. Just quiet, solar‑powered cruising.
Affordable Access to Houseboat Living - Traditional houseboats can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. A DIY Solar Drifter costs a fraction of that — and you control every detail.
Sustainable and Nearly Carbon Neutral - Solar power handles most of your energy needs. Propane supports the rest. No black water. Minimal environmental impact.
Built for Beginners and Experts Alike - The plans are step‑by‑step, detailed, and designed for people with little or no construction experience. Experienced builders will appreciate the schematics and technical drawings.
A Project With Purpose - There’s something deeply rewarding about building your own vessel — and even more rewarding when it becomes a place for family, friends, and unforgettable memories.
Designed by Someone Who’s Done It - The FREE DIY Build Plan is based on a real proof‑of‑concept build, tested on the Ottawa River, refined through experience, and improved for the DIY community.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to build a Solar Drifter?
Costs vary depending on locality, options, and local materials pricing. Most builders can complete a basic version for significantly less than a traditional houseboat.

How long does the build take?
Build time depends on your schedule, tools, and experience. Many builders complete major components over a summer season.

What tools do I need?
Mostly common hand tools and basic power tools. No specialized marine equipment is required. Tools used are identified in 'frequently used' & 'occasionally used' categories.

Is the Solar Drifter safe?
Yes — when built according to the plans. The design is stable, buoyant, and tested on real water. Safety considerations are included throughout the Build Plan.

Are the plans really free?
Absolutely. The goal is to make sustainable houseboat living accessible to everyone.

Can I customize the design?
Yes. Many builders personalize their Solar Drifter with insulation packages, solar upgrades, layout changes, and more.