Builder of mystery floating RV in South Surrey speaks out

A floating RV that appeared on the Nicomekl River in South Surrey on Friday has drawn attention from residents, online observers and federal regulators. Transport Canada says it is assessing the unusual vessel after recently becoming aware of it.

The homemade craft is an RV mounted on a barge made of steel, wood and empty barrels. Some residents have been intrigued by the sight, while others have raised concerns about it being on the waterway ahead of an annual rowing regatta expected to bring more than 100 boats to the river this weekend.

Emilio Gilpo, a retired shipbuilder, said he designed and built the floating RV himself over about six months. He said it could be used as a recreational boat or a houseboat, and that his past shipyard work gave him an understanding of boat and ship mechanics. He described the project as an innovative concept that is unusual in Vancouver.

Gilpo said a crane lowered the structure into the river after construction was complete. He also received a bylaw parking ticket while assembling it nearby. He said he is not living in the RV, though he may use it as a houseboat in the future depending on how the project develops.

Gilpo said he is registered with Engineers and Geoscientists BC and plans to submit the project to the association for further study. Engineers and Geoscientists BC said it learned of the project Monday and has no involvement in either the project or its construction, despite Gilpo’s registration with the organization.

Transport Canada said it may contact the owner and conduct inspections or compliance-verification activities to determine whether the craft meets marine safety and environmental requirements. The department said people may build vessels for personal use, but those vessels must comply with the Canada Shipping Act, 2001, its regulations, and applicable safety and environmental requirements.

The department added that a vessel does not necessarily need a motor to fall under its regulations, and that an inspection would be needed to determine the requirements that apply. Gilpo said he does not believe he has broken any laws, though he expects there could eventually be requests to remove the structure. After receiving several complaints, he said he intends to move it to another section of the river and ultimately add a motor.