Description

"Cheers": A modern Dutch Barge

Cheers is a purpose-built live-aboard Dutch barge, offering a unique blend of robust construction and comfortable, modern living. Built in England in 2003 by Phillips Engineering, its design is rooted in traditional Dutch barge aesthetics, while its construction is anything but old-fashioned.

A Solid Foundation

What truly sets Cheers apart is its remarkable strength. The hull is made from an exceptionally thick 12.7mm steel plate, and the superstructure is crafted from 6mm steel. This is a significant upgrade from most barges, which typically feature 6mm hulls, giving Cheers a uniquely solid and durable foundation. The engine has a closed cooling system which is in the hull on each side of the keel, the underside is flush and smooth.

In 2023, "Cheers" underwent a major refurbishment. The bottom of the hull was completely redone and repainted, and the area above the waterline was repainted with marine-grade 2-pack paint, ensuring its pristine condition for years to come.

This vessel is designed for year-round comfort, featuring a diesel heater in the main cabin for those cooler months. The living spaces are bright and spacious, highlighted by a stunning bow terrace—the perfect spot to relax and take in the scenery.

Interior Comforts

The interior is designed for easy living, with two cabins, two bathrooms, and two separate WCs. Natural light and excellent ventilation are provided by a generous skylight and cabin windows that feature removable, double-glazed panels. The generous kitchen and dining area make entertaining a breeze, with ample space to cater for six people and a full-size domestic fridge and freezer.

Effortless Operation

The wheelhouse is designed for maximum visibility and ease of use. Removable vinyl side and rear panels, along with a fold-down windscreen, ensure excellent ventilation for the captain and crew. The large, open-access doors provide a clear view, making tight maneuvers and single-person operations like mooring and navigating locks simple.

Self-Sufficient Power System

Cheers boasts a powerful and efficient electrical system, perfect for off-grid living. The house system is powered by a 600Ah AGM/Gel battery bank, which is charged by 600 watts of solar panels on the wheelhouse roof and a dedicated secondary engine alternator. Two Cyrix VSRs (Voltage Sensitive Relays) link the engine, bow thruster, and house batteries, enabling a clever bi-directional charging system. This ensures all batteries remain fully charged, whether you're under power, on solar, or connected to shore power.

A Victron 3000Va 220V inverter/charger provides reliable 220V power throughout the cabins.

Cheers is more than just a boat—it's a turnkey home on the water, fully equipped and ready for you to move in. All you need to bring are your clothes and your groceries.


General Specifications

Type of boat: Barge
Length: 16.7 m (54.8ft)
Width: 4.1 m (13.45ft)
Year: 2003
Hull: Steel
Air draft: 2.80 m
Water draft: 1.20 m
Navigation: River

Comfort Features

Cabins: 2
Sleeping capacity: 6
Double beds: 3
Convertible couch: Living room
Type of WC: Electric (2)
Showers: 2
Kitchen: Gas hob, Gas oven, Full size domestic 220V refrigerator and freezer
Hot water: Heated by engine, Heated by 220V
Heating: Webasto fuel hot air, Oil stove
Type of insulation: Polyurethane foam

Technical Specifications

Number of engines: 1
Engine power: 91 CV
Engine make: Perkins
Engine year: 2003
Fuel: Diesel
Fuel economy: 1.5 Liters per hour
Engine hours: 2170
Dry: Dry
Keel Cooling: Keel Cooling
Grease: Grease
Classic stuffing box: Classic stuffing box
Spare propellors: 1 (stored under the floor mid-ship)
Propeller shaft: Propeller shaft
Bow thruster: Yes
Bilge pumps: 1
5 x 120 AH (from 2023, AGM type): 5 x 120 AH (from 2023, AGM type)
2 (from 2023, Gel type): 2 (from 2023, Gel type)
thruster_batteries_label: 2 (from 2023, Gel type)
Victron 12V 3000W 120A: Victron 12V 3000W 120A
5 x 120 W: 5 x 120 W
220V, 12V: 220V, 12V

Deck and Exterior

1 (Hydraulic): 1 (Hydraulic)
Gangway, Outdoor furniture, Winter cover for sky light, Mast, Deck wash pump: Gangway, Outdoor furniture, Winter cover for sky light, Mast, Deck wash pump
Aluminum frame, Double glazing on all windows: Aluminum frame, Double glazing on all windows

Tank Capacities

2 x 670 L: 2 x 670 L
1 x 40 L: 1 x 40 L
1 x 500 L, 2 x 250 L: 1 x 500 L, 2 x 250 L
1 x 100 L: 1 x 100 L

Navigation Equipment

VHF: VHF

Specifications

Location Map