Houseboat hideout for break-in artist on the auction block in Kelowna

KELOWNA – It’s not the Fintry Queen but the well-used houseboat that’s now moored in Sutherland Bay has its own saucy history and the boat can be yours for the right price.

Built in 1982, the 37-foot houseboat was last used as homebase for a man suspected in a string of break and enters of waterfront homes in the area last spring.

City communications supervisor Tom Wilson says city seized the houseboat after the man was arrested and the boat left attended. Under the city parks bylaw, abandoned property is held for 60 days and if unclaimed, becomes city property.

Now the city is auctioning off the boat through B.C. Auction, as is, with a reserve price of $3,400 Canadian. Once, sold the successful bidder will have to move the boat themselves and it doesn’t come with a trailer.

No word on whether the engine will start or not, and the auction listing advises prospective purchasers to see the boat in person before making a bid.

Online bidding closes Sept. 30 and 21 bids have been submitted to date. It’s moored right now in Sutherland Bay at the spot recently vacated by the Fintry Queen but would-be houseboat owners can see it up close during a showing Sept. 22 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the dock in front of Rose’s Pub at 1352 Water St.

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