Jakarta’s rivers have become highly polluted with waste, especially plastics, exacerbating urban flood risk. Conventional cleanup measures – such as floating trash booms, sediment dredging, and powered cleaning boats – often fail under strong currents or sudden water level rises. In this study, we use a qualitative case-study and design-research framework (observation, data collection, analysis, design recommendation) to develop an innovative, adaptive river-cleaning vessel. The proposed design adapts dynamically to changing flow and water height without obstructing the river, while emphasizing aesthetic form, sustainable materials, and environmental education. Initial results suggest this concept could significantly improve upon existing trash boats and serve as a practical solution for government and NGOs in urban waste mitigation and flood-reduction efforts.