My neighbors in the Shelter also include the few cats and dogs that live aboard boats full time.
For some of us, companionable pets are part of what makes living on a boat a home.
Eleanor is a calico cat who's home is a neighboring boat, but visits us on
"Watermark" often. She enjoys keeping us company on "anchor watch", sitting on the bow and watching the sunset. She also earns her place, as many other seagoing cats throughout the ages have, by fiercely stalking any uninvited creatures that may try to board during the night.
Dogs passing by excitedly standing in the bow of small motor boats, enjoying the wind and the waves, are a regular sight, too.
For Teddy and Alfie, kayaking is a weekend adventure. I usually see them on the stern dive deck of their cruiser, brothers shoulder to shoulder with their tails wagging, watching the sampans passing by.
We brought our own cats from Singapore when we moved to the Typhoon Shelter. They adapted quickly to life on the water, and even though a smaller space than the Singapore shophouse and garden they were use to, seem to love the gentle rocking of
"Watermark", the dozy sunlight through the windows, and exploring the different levels of the cabins. We do keep them inside, as it can be hazardous for pets that are unaware that they may actually, as we all eventually do, fall over the side.
"Watermark" has a full crew.
see More Pets Aboard
