Retiree Embarks on Floating Adventure Near Navy Pier

Matt Jonkman, a 52-year-old retiree, has traded traditional living for a unique lifestyle aboard a 50-foot houseboat anchored near Navy Pier in Chicago. Since April, Jonkman has embraced life on the water, accompanied by his cat, Monty. Recently, he set sail for warmer waters in Kentucky, with plans to return to Chicago by spring.

Jonkman, who describes himself as “very happy,” has found solace in the tranquility of life on the lake. His journey has been marked by adventure and self-discovery. “I told myself I’d live like this for at least a year,” he said, adding, “Now I don’t want to get off yet.” His decision to live aboard was partly motivated by a desire to stay close to his adult daughter, who resides onshore.

A Unique Living Arrangement

Unlike many boaters who use their vessels as summer getaways, Jonkman has become a “liveaboard,” a term for those who reside full-time on their boats. The costs associated with docking in Chicago often deter others from this lifestyle, but Jonkman has managed to anchor overnight in the public harbor, avoiding steep fees. He occasionally rents a dock for short periods to access the city’s amenities, such as movies, museums, and mail pick-ups.

His floating home boasts impressive features—a lounge area, a flatscreen television, a kitchen complete with a double sink, and even a washer-dryer. Jonkman’s setup rivals that of a typical Chicago apartment, with comforts including a grill and a queen-size bed offering stunning views of the skyline. He notes that while the space may lack tidiness at times, it fulfills all his needs.

Life Lessons from the Water

Jonkman’s transition to this lifestyle follows a significant personal journey. A former cybersecurity expert, he has experienced both triumphs and tragedies, including a 2020 plane crash that left him with severe injuries and a changed outlook on life. “The accident made me slow down,” he explained, reflecting on how it reshaped his priorities. After years of high-pressure work, he now finds joy in the simplicity of his surroundings.

His daughter, Savannah Jonkman, expressed mixed emotions about her father’s choice to live on a boat, saying she is “equal parts worried and unsurprised.” Yet, she has observed a newfound confidence in him, noting, “He seems happier being so self-sufficient.” Jonkman’s resilience has also inspired those around him, as he continues to tinker with technology while enjoying his time on the water.

Jonkman acknowledges the challenges of living on a boat, including regular maintenance tasks and the unpredictability of weather conditions. “Thirty percent of the time you’re trying to stay alive,” he remarked, highlighting the reality of life at sea. Despite these challenges, he embraces the camaraderie among fellow boaters and enjoys the freedom of life on the water.

“Everyone has something in common,” he said, describing the connections formed among those who share the lake. Jonkman’s experiences have also led to new friendships and even potential romantic interests, as the adventure of living aboard his boat has attracted curiosity from others.

The availability of affordable docking options in Chicago remains a concern for Jonkman and others seeking a similar lifestyle. Mike McElroy, president of the Chicago Harbor Safety Committee, noted that while liveaboards are common in other regions, Chicago lacks the infrastructure to support them adequately. “Living on your boat can be treacherous,” he stated, emphasizing the city’s challenges for those choosing this path.

As Jonkman embarks on his winter journey, he reflects on his life with a sense of contentment. “I feel more settled now than ever,” he said, while acknowledging the uncertainties that still lie ahead. With a spirit of adventure and a commitment to self-sufficiency, Jonkman continues to navigate the waters of life, one wave at a time.