MetroShip recently launched its 42-foot GlassHouseboat that offers 360-degree views with a New York loft style floorplan. The houseboats are designed by British-born designer David Ballinger. Ballinger is famous for the MetroShed, MetroShip Neiman Marcus 50th Anniversary His & Hers Gift Edition, and now the 42-foot MetroShip GlassHouseboat, which will join a growing family of American-made boat products by Ballinger.

MetroShip's GlassHouseboat was inspired by Phillip Johnson's Glass House in New Canaan, Conn. It is a guest suite structure that features glass around the entire structure and an enclosed bathroom.

The GlassHouseboat features an open floor plan with incredibly high ceilings for a houseboat, giving it the feel of a much larger space. It is more like a floating hotel suite, including the contemporary interior design.

"We want to get as far away from the `RV of the Sea' as we can," says Ballinger.

The glass is all double-glazed with ultra efficient LG minisplit heat/AC units onboard. Flat screens, a full workable kitchen island, oversized contemporary bathroom and even a walk-in closet was given to the GlassHouseboat as a result of customer feedback.

The first 42-foot GlassHouseboat was delivered to Washington, DC, where it is attracting a lot of attention as the next generation of houseboat. With the average cost of a typical houseboat being over $400,000, the 42-foot MetroShip GlassHouseboat starts at around $100,000 depending on engines and options. The GlassHouseboat is truly revolutionary and a cost effective alternative to land living. For more information visit www.metro-ship.com.