Loreauville unveils 120-foot solar luxury houseboat
LOREAUVILLE, La. (KLFY)-- Manufacturing company, Breaux Brothers Enterprises Incorporated, celebrated the completion of their new 120-foot solar powered houseboat in Loreauville.
The manufacturing company is renowned globally for its custom-built aluminum vessels. Their latest creation, the GLV-120, is a first for the company, and an entirely new concept in sustainable, off-grid luxury living.
The owners of the boat, Philip Shelley and Rhonda Shelley, celebrated the launch of their floating boat with a christening ceremony, surrounded by friends and the community.
The houseboat, named Shine Down, is believed to be the largest solar-powered houseboat in the country. Philip Shelly said it's more than just a boat, it is a dream come true for him and his wife.
"We don't know another one of the size with this amount of solar energy on the roof and you probably could get a picture of it, it's a lot of solar panels on the roof, and yeah it's completely unique," Philip said.
Breaux Brothers have worked closely with the owners of "Shine Down" for approximately three years to bring the vessel from concept to reality. The couple told News 10 the boat is powered by 108 solar panels, and includes multiple swimming pools, luxury kitchens, salons, offices, and lounges. Interior decorating was executed by Rita Durio and Associates, working in close partnership with the owners.
"It's very comfortable living," Rhonda said. "You have all the pleasures of your own home on the water, on the boat, full kitchen, large refrigerators, we have freezers down below, so you can stock up, live off the grid if you need to for months and months."
As natives of Florida, the couple says their floating home is truly their home away from home. They tell us they are looking forward to showing the world what the boat has to offer.
"On Sunday we'll get pushed to Morgan City and then if everything's running well in Morgan City, we'll head across the gulf and back to Florida," said Philip Shelley.
"We feel like we have made so many friends here in Louisiana and I just feel like I'm at home," said Rhonda.