The houseboat was used to show who Vincent was separate from Catherine Chandler, developing his character. Vincent spent the majority of his time there when he and Catherine broke up. Catherine often felt uncomfortable being there, as it reminded her of how Vincent was taken away from her. Tori Windsor also lived in the houseboat when she & Vincent were dating, until she died. After Vincent and Catherine got back together, Vincent would more often stay at Catherine's place than at the houseboat. He later moved out into Catherine's apartment after they got engaged.