small yacht living

Living on a Yacht: Weighing the Pros and Cons of a Luxury Lifestyle

Explore the dream – and the realities – of Living on a Yacht, offering insights into the freedom and challenges it entails. From financial considerations and space optimization to the impacts of weather and community aspects, it provides a balanced view to help readers make an informed decision about this unique lifestyle.

Imagine the gentle sway of waves, the endless horizon of the sea, and the allure of waking up to a different view every morning. This isn’t a holiday brochure; it’s the possibility of your new life on a yacht. It’s a dream for many, but what does it truly entail? In this exploration, we delve into the reality of yacht living. It’s not all sunsets and sea breezes. Like any home, a yacht has its charms and challenges.

For those in their prime years, considering a shift from a traditional home to a yacht is more than just a change of address. It’s a lifestyle overhaul. We’re not just talking about a snug living space or the need to be a Jack-of-all-trades at sea. It’s about embracing a unique blend of freedom and responsibility.

Our journey through this blog post is not just about painting a rosy picture. It’s about providing a realistic lens through which you can view this significant life decision. We’ll explore how this choice fits into your life puzzle, whether you’re an adventurous soul seeking the thrill of the open seas or a contemplative mind looking for serenity away from the land’s hustle.

As you read through, remember, every big decision comes with its highs and lows–like the tides. Yacht living is no exception. So, let’s set sail on this exploratory voyage to uncover what lies beneath the surface of living on a yacht.

The Allure of Yacht Living

The concept of yacht living taps into a deep-seated desire for freedom, an intimate connection with nature, and a sense of belonging within a unique community. Living on a boat isn’t just about the physical space you inhabit; it’s about the lifestyle and experiences that come with it. From the flexibility to cruise to new locations on a whim to the close-knit marina communities, yacht life offers a distinct way of living that is both challenging and rewarding.The 

The Freedom and Flexibility of Location of Luxury Yacht Living

One of the most enticing aspects of living aboard a yacht is the sheer freedom it offers. Imagine having the ability to change your scenery whenever you wish. Whether it’s anchoring in a secluded bay or docking at a vibrant marina, your home is as mobile as you desire. This flexibility allows for a life unbound by the traditional constraints of geographical location.

Sailing from one destination to another, you’re not just moving your home; you’re embracing a lifestyle that allows for spontaneous adventures and experiences. The freedom to explore coastal towns, hidden coves, and open seas is unparalleled. This nomadic way of life provides a sense of liberation and adventure that is hard to find in traditional living arrangements.

Proximity to Nature and Unique Living Experiences

Living on a yacht brings you closer to nature in a way that few other lifestyles can. The rhythm of the waves, the panoramic ocean views, and the ability to witness marine life up close become a part of your daily life. This connection to the natural world is not just visually stunning but also offers a sense of peace and tranquility.

The unique living experiences that come with yacht life are endless. From waking up to the gentle lapping of waves against the hull to enjoying sunsets over the water every evening, these experiences enrich life aboard. Each day presents an opportunity to create unforgettable memories, whether it’s swimming in crystal-clear waters, fishing for your dinner, or simply enjoying the serenity of the sea.

Overview of the Sense of Community in Marinas and Sailing Circles

One might think that living on a boat could be isolating, but the reality is quite the opposite. Yacht marinas and sailing communities are often vibrant and welcoming. When you dock or anchor your yacht, you’re not just stopping at a place; you’re becoming part of a community. These communities are characterized by shared experiences, mutual assistance, and a common passion for the sea.

Life in a marina is rich with social interactions. Fellow liveaboards and sailors form a tight-knit community, often gathering for shared meals, group excursions, or simply exchanging stories and advice. This camaraderie is a significant part of the allure of yacht living. The sense of belonging is palpable, as everyone shares a common understanding of the joys and challenges of life at sea.

The community extends beyond the physical confines of the marina. Sailing circles worldwide are connected by a shared love for cruising and exploration. Whether it’s through organized regattas, informal meet-ups, or online forums, these connections foster a sense of global community. Sailors often form lasting friendships, bound by their shared experiences and adventures at sea.

Marinas often host events and activities that further strengthen these bonds. From educational workshops to social gatherings, there is a sense of collective growth and enjoyment. Living at a marina or being part of a sailing community isn’t just about having a place to dock your boat; it’s about being part of a supportive and engaging network that enriches your life aboard.

If you’re considering taking this step into yacht life, you may want to consider a test run. Charter a private yacht and try this lifestyle out for yourself. You may even decide you prefer renting over buying. Rent one model today, and then — when your mood or plans change — change the yacht for rent.  You don’t have to commit right away, this isn’t a marriage, it’s a yacht. 

Space and Design: Adapting to Yacht Interiors

Transitioning to live on a boat full-time introduces a unique set of challenges and opportunities, particularly when it comes to space and design. Yacht interiors, whether in a luxury yacht or a modest sailboat, require thoughtful planning and clever solutions to make the most of the available space. This section delves into the art of maximizing space, the crucial role of organization, and the myriad ways you can personalize your floating home.

Maximizing Limited Space: Innovative Design Solutions

The key to successful boat life lies in efficiently utilizing the limited space. Every square inch on a boat counts, and making the most of this space is vital for comfortable living. Design solutions often involve multi-functional furniture, such as beds with storage underneath, foldable tables, or convertible seating areas. These innovations allow for a practical living environment without sacrificing comfort or style.

Another aspect is the strategic use of vertical space. Wall-mounted shelves, hanging organizers, and overhead storage can free up valuable floor space. In a sailboat, for example, the interior can be designed with built-in storage in unexpected places like under the stairs or in the hull. This approach ensures that every part of the boat is utilized effectively.

The type of boat also plays a role in how space can be maximized. For instance, catamarans typically offer more living space compared to monohulls, making them a popular choice for those looking to move aboard full-time. Regardless of the boat type, the goal is to create a space that is both functional and comfortable.

The Importance of Efficient Organization When Yachting

Living on a boat full-time demands a high level of organization. The limited space means there’s little room for clutter, making it essential to keep everything in its place. Efficient organization not only makes life on board more comfortable but also ensures safety when the boat is in motion.

Organizational strategies include using containers and baskets to keep items secure, labeling storage areas for easy access, and regularly decluttering to avoid accumulating unnecessary items. This discipline in organization extends to all aspects of boat life, from the kitchen and living areas to personal belongings and maintenance tools.

Boat insurance policies often require certain safety standards to be maintained,

and a well-organized boat is more likely to meet these requirements. Keeping equipment properly stored and accessible can be critical in emergencies. Additionally, an organized interior can help in reducing the overall cost of living on a boat, as it prevents damage and loss of items, which could be costly to replace.

Customization Options for Personalizing Your Space

Turning a yacht into a home involves more than just functional adjustments; it’s about infusing your personality into the space. Customization allows boat dwellers to create an environment that reflects their style and preferences, adding to the enjoyment of luxury yacht living.

Personalizing a yacht interior can range from choosing color schemes and fabrics to selecting artwork and – perhaps – some nautical-themed decorative items . Many boat owners opt for a full tour of customization, tailoring each aspect of the yacht to their liking. This could include custom-built furniture, unique lighting fixtures, or bespoke floorings, such as teak or bamboo.

For those living on a sailboat, customization might mean optimizing the layout for sailing efficiency while also creating a cozy, livable space. This could involve installing custom cabinetry that fits the boat’s contours or adding personal touches like cushions and throws that make the space feel like home.

Customization also extends to technological upgrades. Modern yachts can be equipped with advanced navigation systems, entertainment setups, and climate control, enhancing the overall experience of boat life. These modifications not only add comfort but also can increase the boat’s value.

In essence, adapting to yacht interiors is a blend of practicality, organization, and personalization. Whether you’re planning to move aboard a sailboat or a luxury yacht, these elements work in harmony to create a living space that is not just functional but truly feels like home.

Climate Considerations When You Live on a Boat Full-Time

The climatic conditions of the chosen residence place or travel route are not the most obvious factor which must be noted. Being in a city apartment or a private house, we don’t think much about the weather outside the window. If a strong wind blows outside, heavy rain falls or the temperature suddenly drops, we will feel almost nothing.

On a yacht, the weather does not just play an important role, your safety and comfort directly depend on it. Each boat is individual and suitable for certain climatic conditions. It is worth analyzing all the characteristics of the boat in advance and honestly evaluating its capabilities in order to accurately determine whether it is possible to  live on a yacht all year round in your chosen water area.

Financial Considerations: The Cost of Yacht Life

Embarking on the journey of yacht life involves more than just adapting to a new way of living; it also requires a clear understanding of the financial implications. While it’s easy to romanticize the idea of sailing around the world or living full-time on a boat, the reality comes with its own set of financial responsibilities. From the initial purchase of the boat to ongoing expenses and the comparison to traditional homeownership, understanding these costs is crucial for anyone considering this lifestyle.

Initial Investment: Purchasing and Outfitting a Yacht

The first step in yacht life is acquiring the right boat. This involves not only finding the best boat that suits your needs but also managing the financial investment it requires. The cost of a new boat can vary widely, depending on factors such as size, brand, and features, some of which we covered above. Choosing to live on a larger boat or a luxury cruiser naturally involves a higher initial investment.

In addition to the purchase price, outfitting a yacht for full-time living is a significant consideration. This may include upgrading boat systems, adding navigation equipment, and customizing the interior to make it livable. Even if you opt for an old, more affordable boat, it could require substantial investment in renovations and upgrades.

Furthermore, acquiring the necessary knowledge and skills for yacht maintenance and sailing is part of the initial investment. This might entail sailing courses, safety training, and learning about the nautical aspects of yacht care.

Ongoing Expenses: Maintenance, Docking Fees, Insurance

Once you own a yacht, the financial commitments continue. Boat maintenance is an ongoing requirement and a crucial part of life aboard. The yacht owners will need knowledge and skills to keep the yacht in good condition. Regular upkeep ensures the safety and longevity of your boat. This includes everything from engine maintenance to hull cleaning and can vary greatly in cost, depending on the age and condition of your boat.

Docking fees are another significant expense, especially if you choose to stay at marinas. The cost can vary based on location and the services offered. Additionally, a dinghy might be necessary for transportation to and from the shore, adding to the expenses.

Insurance is an essential consideration for any boater. Boat insurance policies can be complex and vary greatly in coverage and cost. It’s crucial to have a comprehensive policy that covers potential damages and liabilities, especially when living on a boat full-time.

Comparing the Cost of Living to Traditional Homeownership

When contemplating yacht life, it’s common to wonder if you’ll save money compared to traditional homeownership. The answer depends on various factors, including the type and size of the boat, the chosen lifestyle, and where you plan to dock or anchor.

Annual costs for yacht living can include maintenance, insurance, docking fees, and fuel, which can be comparable to or even exceed the costs of owning a home. However, some expenses, like property taxes and certain utilities, may be lower or non-existent.

It’s also important to consider the value of the experience and lifestyle when comparing costs. Yacht life offers a unique set of experiences and freedoms that traditional homeownership cannot provide. While the financial aspect is crucial, the decision to live on a yacht often goes beyond mere economics.

Living on a boat full-time can also mean a shift in priorities and lifestyle choices. For some, this means downsizing and simplifying life, which can lead to reduced overall living expenses. However, for others, particularly those choosing a luxury yacht or a larger boat, the costs can be comparable to or even exceed those of a high-end terrestrial home.

Challenges and Downsides of Full-Time Living on a Boat

Living on a yacht presents a unique set of challenges and downsides that are important to consider before making the leap into this lifestyle. While the idea of living on a boat may evoke images of endless sunsets and tranquil waters, the reality can be quite different. Factors such as weather dependency, limited access to facilities, and the psychological impacts of isolation and confined spaces play a significant role in day-to-day life on a yacht.

Weather Dependency and Its Impact

One of the most significant challenges of living on a yacht is the constant need to be mindful of the weather. Your entire life becomes closely tied to weather conditions, which can change rapidly and without warning.

• Safety Concerns : Severe weather can pose serious safety risks. Being caught in a storm while at sea can be dangerous, and even when docked, high winds and waves can cause damage to your yacht.
• Lifestyle Adjustments : Daily activities and travel plans often have to be adjusted according to the weather. This can mean being stuck in a location longer than planned or missing out on certain experiences.
• Constant Vigilance : Living on a yacht requires a high level of awareness and knowledge of weather patterns. This can be mentally taxing, as one always needs to be prepared for the possibility of changing plans or taking emergency precautions.

Remember the old saying, “Red sky at night, sailors delight. Red sky in the morning, sailors take warning!”

Limited Access to Certain Facilities and Services When You Live on a Yacht

Another downside of yacht life is the limited access to facilities and services that are often taken for granted on land.

• Healthcare and Emergency Services : In remote areas, access to healthcare and emergency services can be limited or delayed. This can be a concern for those with medical conditions or in case of accidents.
• Utility Services : Services like high-speed internet, electricity, and plumbing work differently on a yacht and may not always be reliable. This can affect both work and daily living.
• Convenience and Shopping : Getting groceries or finding specific supplies can be challenging, especially when anchored away from urban centers. This requires careful planning and often means you can’t have everything you want when you want it.

Dealing with Isolation and Confined Spaces When Living Aboard a Boat

The psychological aspects of living on a yacht are often overlooked, yet they are crucial for a sustainable life at sea.

• Isolation from Society : While some seek solitude, prolonged periods of isolation can affect mental health. Being away from family, friends, and the wider community can lead to feelings of loneliness.
• Small Living Quarters : The confined space of a boat can be challenging, especially for those used to larger living spaces. It requires adjustments in both physical belongings and mental preparedness for close-quarters living.
• Cabin Fever : Spending extended periods on a boat, especially during bad weather when you can’t leave, can lead to a sense of restlessness or cabin fever. This is where the small space and isolation can compound to impact mental well-being.

While living on a yacht can be an incredibly rewarding experience, it’s important to acknowledge and prepare for the challenges and downsides. Understanding the realities of weather dependency, limited access to amenities, and the psychological effects of isolation and confined spaces is crucial for anyone considering making a boat their home. These factors are integral to life at sea and require careful consideration and planning to ensure a fulfilling and sustainable lifestyle on the water.

Summary and Key Takeaways

Living on a yacht is a dream many aspire to, but it’s essential to approach this lifestyle with a well-informed perspective. This article has journeyed through the various facets of yacht living, weighing both its enchanting appeal and the pragmatic realities.

Recap of the Pros and Cons

• Pros : The freedom to explore new horizons, the intimacy with nature, and the unique sense of community in marinas and sailing circles are among the most compelling benefits. The ability to customize your living space and the adventure that comes with a nautical lifestyle are undeniably attractive.
• Cons : However, these benefits are balanced by challenges such as weather dependency, limited access to facilities and services, and the psychological impacts of living in confined spaces. Financial considerations, including the initial investment and ongoing maintenance costs, are significant.

Making a Well-Informed Decision

Deciding to live on a yacht should not be made lightly. It’s a decision that requires thorough consideration of both the financial implications and the lifestyle changes. Prospective yacht dwellers should research extensively, speak with experienced individuals, and realistically assess their readiness for such a commitment.

Final Reflections on Embracing the Yacht Lifestyle

For those who find the allure irresistible, yacht living can be incredibly rewarding. It offers a unique way of life that blends adventure with simplicity, freedom with responsibility. If approached with careful planning and realistic expectations, living on a yacht can provide an enriching and fulfilling experience.

Please note that the information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Prospective yacht owners are encouraged to consult with qualified professionals for specific advice related to legal, financial, and practical aspects of living on a yacht.

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Small Yacht: Essential Buying Guide for New Owners

The world of yachting has seen a steady rise in popularity. With that has come a growing interest in small yachts.

These vessels, often referred to as mini yachts or small luxury yachts, provide an accessible and versatile option for those looking to venture into the nautical lifestyle. Small yachts range from about 30 to 65 feet in length. They cater to a variety of needs, blending luxury aesthetics with the functionality and maneuverability of compact marine vessels.

Understanding the unique characteristics of small yachts is essential for potential buyers and enthusiasts. Their design and construction prioritize space efficiency and creativity. This enables a comfortable living experience aboard, without sacrificing performance and handling capabilities.

Therefore, it's crucial to examine factors such as yacht size, layout, amenities, fuel efficiency, and sailing range when exploring the market for small luxury yachts.

Key Takeaways

• Small yachts provide a versatile and accessible option for exploring the nautical lifestyle.
• Design and construction balance luxury aesthetics with functionality and maneuverability.
• Essential factors to consider include size, layout, amenities, fuel efficiency, and sailing range.

Understanding Small Yachts

Defining Small Yachts

Small yachts, also known as mini yachts, are vessels designed to offer the luxury and amenities of a superyacht in a more compact and manageable size. These yachts typically range from 20 to 60 feet in length, which is much more modest when compared to the vast size of superyachts 1 .

Although smaller in size, these yachts still boast a variety of features and can include a range of models, from motor yachts to sailing yachts.

Small Yachts vs. Superyachts

The differences between small yachts and superyachts are not just about size. Superyachts tend to offer more extravagant amenities, such as onboard cinemas, helipads, and multiple swimming pools. On the other hand, small yachts focus on providing a comfortable and luxurious experience while being more budget-friendly and easier to handle 2 .

Here are some key differences between small yachts and superyachts:

Types of Small Yachts

There are two primary types of small yachts: motor yachts and sailing yachts. Each type offers unique features and advantages depending on the owner's preferences and intended use.

• Motor Yachts : These mini yachts are powered by engines, making them ideal for those who prioritize speed and convenience. Motor yachts often come with more creature comforts and can reach destinations quickly 9 .
• Sailing Yachts : Sailing yachts rely on wind power, offering a more traditional and eco-friendly sailing experience. They provide a sense of adventure and connection with the sea while still offering a range of comfort features 10 .

Both motor and sailing yachts can be further classified into various subcategories, such as powerboats and sailing catamarans, each with its own unique characteristics.

• Mini Yacht Buying Guide 2023 ↩ ↩ 2
• Small & Mini Yachts for Sale ↩ ↩ 2
• Superyacht Size Categories ↩
• Small Yacht: Luxurious Vessels for Leisure & Adventure ↩
• Luxury Superyacht Amenities ↩
• Superyacht Crew Requirements ↩
• Small Yacht Price Range ↩
• Superyacht Prices ↩
• Motor Yacht vs. Sailing Yacht ↩
• Advantages of Sailing Yachts ↩

Design & Construction

Hull Design and Material

When it comes to the design and construction of small yachts, hull design and material selection are of utmost importance. Most small yacht builders, such as Small Trimaran Design , focus on creating efficient and stable hull designs. These can be found in various forms, such as monohulls and multihulls.

Various materials can be used in the construction of yacht hulls. Common options include wood, steel, aluminum, and composites like fiberglass, GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic), and carbon fiber . The choice of material can have a significant impact on the yacht's performance, durability, and maintenance requirements.

Deck Layout and Features

A well-designed deck layout contributes greatly to the comfort and functionality of a small yacht.

Luxury yacht builders, such as Burgess and Fraser , pay special attention to optimizing deck space for both practical and aesthetic purposes.

Key features often found on small yachts include:

• Cabins : Depending on the size of the yacht, there may be one or more cabins for sleeping, typically offering a comfortable and cozy environment.
• Outdoor living : Designers strive to maximize outdoor living spaces, such as lounge areas and sun decks, allowing passengers to enjoy the surroundings and fresh air.
• Coachroof : A raised section of the deck, the coachroof often houses the entrance to the yacht's interior and provides additional headroom below deck.
• Interiors : Small yacht interiors can be designed with efficient use of space, incorporating luxury finishes and furniture to create a comfortable and stylish atmosphere.

Some yachts even make use of advanced materials like foam in their construction, which can offer benefits in terms of weight reduction and insulation.

Performance and Handling

Sailing Performance

Small yachts are known for their agility and responsiveness in a variety of sailing conditions.

The lifting keel plays a crucial role in enhancing their performance, allowing them to access shallow waters and engage in creek crawling .

The versatility of these compact vessels allows sailors to enjoy the thrill of sailing on open water, as well as navigating through narrow channels and shallow creeks.

Some popular small yachts with remarkable sailing performance include the Sadler 26 and the Rustler 37 .

The maneuverability and ease of handling make these yachts perfect for both inexperienced and seasoned sailors.

Motor Yachting Efficiency

While small yachts are primarily designed for sailing, many of them can also function as motor yachts when needed. This allows for greater versatility, especially in situations where wind conditions are unfavorable.

In comparison to larger powerboats and cruisers, small motor yachts are generally more fuel-efficient, easier to maneuver, and require less maintenance.

Motor yachting efficiency can be affected by factors such as:

• Engine type and size
• Weight distribution

A well-designed small yacht strikes a balance between sailing performance and motor yachting efficiency, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy the best of both worlds.

The Hobie Cat , for example, is a popular small sailboat that can be easily powered by a small outboard motor when needed.

Living Aboard a Small Yacht

Comfort and Accommodations

Living aboard a small yacht offers a unique and enjoyable lifestyle .

One of the key aspects of a comfortable liveaboard experience is having well-designed interiors and cabins. Most small yachts are designed with efficient use of space in mind, providing comfortable sleeping quarters, ample storage, and functional galleys for meal preparation. Some yachts even feature crew quarters for those who choose to sail with a crew.

It's important that the cabins offer a cozy and pleasant atmosphere, an essential factor when living aboard for extended periods.

When it comes to outdoor living spaces , many small yachts have cleverly designed decks and seating areas for lounging, enjoying the surroundings, or simply watching the sunset.

The yacht's galley should be well-equipped, featuring appliances such as a stove, refrigerator, and sink, making it possible to prepare meals just like at home.

Many small yachts also come with well-appointed saloons that provide additional space for dining, relaxing, and socializing with friends and family.

Entertainment and Social Spaces

Small yachts designers often prioritize creating social spaces, both indoors and outdoors, that cater to various needs.

The saloon is typically the heart of the yacht's interior, offering a comfortable space where everyone can gather for meals, play games, or watch movies.

Outdoor living is another essential aspect of the liveaboard lifestyle. Many small yachts are designed with spacious deck areas for sunbathing, enjoying the fresh air, and taking in the surroundings. These spaces can also be great for hosting outdoor events or simply relaxing with a good book.

The Buying Process

Choosing the Right Model

When purchasing a small yacht, it's essential to focus on choosing the right model that suits your needs.

Major yacht brands like Azimut and Ferretti offer various models with different features and specifications.

Consider factors such as the yacht's size, intended use (coastal cruising, blue-water passage-making, or competitive racing), and your budget.

On average, a small brand-new sailing yacht can cost anywhere from $50,000 to $200,000 or more .

Inspecting a Small Yacht

Before making a purchase, it's crucial to inspect the condition of the small yacht. Factors to consider include:

• Age: Older yachts may require more maintenance and have outdated features.
• Model: Different models come with various features and layouts, so choose one that fits your needs.
• Condition: Check for signs of wear and tear, as well as any repairs or replacements needed.

When searching for small yachts for sale , it's highly recommended to hire a marine surveyor to carry out a thorough inspection of the yacht. They will provide a detailed report on the vessel's condition and recommend any necessary repairs or improvements.

Securing a Purchase

Once you have chosen the right model and inspected the yacht, it's time to negotiate the yacht price and secure the purchase.

It's advisable to involve an experienced yacht broker who can simplify the process, handle negotiations, and aid with post-sale support.

When determining the final purchase price, bear in mind factors like the yacht's age, model, condition, and any additional features.

Maintenance and Upkeep

When owning a small yacht, it's crucial to ensure proper maintenance and upkeep to keep the vessel in great condition.

The age and condition of your yacht will greatly influence the maintenance schedule and tasks required. This section will cover the basics of routine maintenance and necessary repairs and refits.

Routine Maintenance

Regular inspection and maintenance of your yacht's essential systems can help prevent major problems in the long run.

It is important to follow a maintenance schedule and to use a calendar or reminder app to stay on track with your maintenance tasks. Yacht maintenance schedules often include the following key areas:

• Hull and Engine Inspection: Perform regular checks for any signs of leaks, corrosion, or damage. Clean and repaint the hull periodically to prevent fouling.
• Electronics, Sails, and Rigging: Inspect all electronics, sails, and rigging for wear and tear or any signs of damage. Replace or repair them as needed.
• Interior and Exterior Lights: Ensure all lights are functional, and replace any damaged or burned-out bulbs.
• Cleaning: Regularly clean the yacht's interior and exterior surfaces using gentle cleaning agents and fresh water to prevent dirt and salt buildup.
• Fuel and Water Tanks: Check and refill fuel and water tanks as needed, and inspect for leaks or contamination.

Repair and Refit

As your small yacht ages, it is essential to address any issues through repair and refit. Here are some common repair and refit tasks to help keep your yacht in the best possible condition:

• Engine Maintenance: Change oil, internal engine anodes, and check for any issues with engine mounts or fuel tanks. Maintain a proper 55-point skipper's checklist to ensure smooth engine operation.
• Electrical System: Replace or repair any malfunctioning electrical components. Ensure the wiring is in good condition and perform upgrades as necessary.
• Sail and Rigging Repair: Check for wear and tear or damaged parts, and replace any components that are no longer in good condition.
• Upholstery and Interior: Regularly clean, repair, or replace cushions, curtains, carpets, and other fabric materials on board.

Yachting Lifestyle

Destinations and Marinas

The yachting lifestyle offers numerous opportunities for exploring breathtaking destinations and marinas around the world.

Most yacht owners prefer to dock their vessels in well-equipped marinas. These marinas provide high-quality facilities, services, and security.

Some of the top destinations for small yachts include the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, and picturesque coastal towns in Europe and the United States.

The Mediterranean is home to famous yachting hotspots such as the French Riviera, the Greek Islands, and the Amalfi Coast . Meanwhile, the Caribbean offers a tropical paradise with its clear turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and hidden coves .

The Mediterranean

• French Riviera: Cannes, St. Tropez, Monaco
• Greek Islands: Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu
• Amalfi Coast: Positano, Capri, Sorrento

The Caribbean

• Virgin Islands: St. Thomas, British Virgin Islands
• Bahamas: Nassau, Exumas
• British West Indies: Barbados, Grenada, St. Lucia

Yachtsmen can also explore vibrant coastal towns in the United States, such as Newport, Rhode Island , or Annapolis, Maryland. These towns have a rich maritime history and provide access to world-class marinas.

When deciding on a marina, yacht owners should consider factors such as the amenities offered, proximity to popular destinations, and the depth of the harbor. Additionally, safety and environmental standards should not be overlooked.

Community and Events

Yachting is not only about the exploration of beautiful destinations but also about the experience of socializing with fellow yacht enthusiasts.

The yachting lifestyle fosters a strong sense of community, as yacht owners frequently mingle at marinas, yacht clubs, and exclusive events.

Yacht clubs and organizations often host events and regattas, where like-minded individuals can share their passion for sailing and create lasting bonds.

Participating in these events is a fantastic opportunity to expand one's social and professional network within the yachting world.

Notable yachting events include:

• The Monaco Yacht Show
• The Antigua Charter Yacht Show
• The Cannes Yachting Festival
• The Newport International Boat Show

These events showcase the latest trends and innovations in the yachting industry, providing attendees with both networking and learning experiences.

Charter and Rental Options

Comparing Ownership and Charter

Owning a small yacht can come with many advantages, such as having the freedom to sail whenever and wherever desired. However, ownership also involves significant costs, including maintenance, docking fees, and insurance.

On the other hand, chartering a yacht can offer a more cost-effective, low-commitment option. Yachts for rent are available in various sizes and price ranges, accommodating anything from a luxurious vacation to a simple day trip.

Chartering allows the enjoyment of the yachting experience without the burden of upkeep, while still providing access to luxury and customizable vacations.

There are different types of charters to consider:

• Bareboat Charter : The individual or group rents the yacht and operates it without a hired skipper or crew. This type is suitable for experienced sailors with the necessary certifications.
• Skippered Charter : Provides a professional skipper to help navigate the yacht, while the customers handle all other aspects, like provisioning and potentially crewing.
• Crewed Charter : More common in luxury and mega yachts, this all-inclusive option provides a complete crew, from a skipper and deckhands to a chef and hospitality staff.

Finding Yachts for Rent

In order to find the ideal yacht for a trip, it is crucial to research the available options.

One popular website for browsing yachts is YachtCharterFleet , offering a comprehensive list of luxury superyacht rentals. Their inventory includes everything from small yachts to mega yachts, catering to a wide range of budgets and group sizes.

Another option for discovering yacht charters is the Moorings platform, specializing in private yacht charters and vacations catering to a variety of boating preferences.

For those looking for more personalized sailing vacations, Moorings Crewed Yacht Charters provides customized, all-inclusive travel experiences, allowing guests to enjoy luxury and adventure at their desired destination.

When choosing the right yacht charter, some key factors to consider are the size and type of the yacht, the desired destination, length of the trip, budget, and any specific services or amenities included.

In any case, the options are virtually endless, ensuring that there is a perfect yacht rental available for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors affect the pricing of a small yacht?

Several factors contribute to the pricing of a small yacht, including its condition, age, size, brand, and the features and amenities it offers.

The materials used in construction, the engine's power, and the yacht's overall design can also influence the cost. Additionally, prices may vary depending on the manufacturer and market demand.

Where can I find listings for small yachts currently on sale?

You can find small yacht listings on various websites that specialize in boat sales and brokerage services, such as YATCO , Seattle Yachts , and Live Yachting .

It is essential to research different options to find the best deal and meet your exact requirements.

How does the buying process differ for new vs. used small yachts?

The primary difference between buying new and used small yachts lies in the warranty, customization options, and yacht history.

New yachts often come with factory warranties and a higher degree of customization. Meanwhile, used yachts typically have a lower initial cost but may require more maintenance or repairs.

It is crucial to inquire about the vessel's history, including previous owners, maintenance records, and any known issues when purchasing a used yacht.

What are some common features to expect in the interior of a small yacht?

Even though they are smaller in size, small yachts often have luxurious and well-designed interiors.

Common features may include a cozy living area, comfortable sleeping quarters , a functional kitchen or galley, and a compact bathroom.

Some yachts also provide entertainment systems, climate control, and advanced navigation equipment , ensuring comfort and convenience while sailing.

Which brands are well-known for manufacturing small yachts?

Several reputable brands produce small yachts, including Hanse , Catalina, Seawind, and Absolute.

Each brand may specialize in different types of yachts, such as sailing, motor yachts, trawlers, and catamarans. It is essential to research and compare various brands and models to find a yacht that best suits your preferences and needs.

What types of luxury amenities can be found on a small yacht?

Small yachts can still offer various luxury amenities, depending on the manufacturer and level of customization.

Some examples include high-end audio and entertainment systems, deck jacuzzis, underwater lighting, custom upholstery and finishes, water toys, and advanced navigation technology.

These amenities add to the overall comfort and enjoyment onboard, but they may also increase the yacht's price.

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Living on a Boat: Beginner's Guide for Liveaboards

It’s easy to romanticize the idea of living on a boat full-time; however, it's an alternative lifestyle like that takes preparation, organization and an ability to roll with changes. When you commit to moving aboard, make checklists of necessities and talk to your partner about deal-breakers. Prepare the boat for life aboard well before you make the move.

Factors to Consider Before Living Aboard

Before moving onboard your boat, you should ask yourself some questions:

• Is this just for a period of time before you go cruising or is this a lifestyle choice?
• Are you comfortable with repeatedly defending your choice to your friends and family?
• Are you living in a climate that is boat-friendly year-round?
• Are you handy and a good problem solver?
• Who will accept your Amazon deliveries and are you ready to grocery shop frequently since there won’t be room to stow much?
• Are you ready to become your own maid?
• Will you feel comfortable with your kids being in this new environment?
• What’s Plan B if it doesn’t work?

After moving aboard, you may be hauling the laundry to the laundromat or groceries from the parking lot with no dock cart nearby. You’ll need to go to the pump-out station regularly as well as to the post office for your mail. Small doesn’t translate to easy so mentally run through a typical week and write down solutions to the issues.

Essentials: Stowage, Comfort & Connectivity

When you move from a 2,000-square foot house to a 40-foot boat, all the closets are smaller, the cupboards are fewer and there’s no two-car garage. In preparation, you’ll need to de-clutter kitchen gadgets, tools, mementos and clothing. Keep winter clothes in off-boat storage and your business attire at the office if possible.

Make sure the boat is warm and dry with plenty of ventilation. Mildew and condensation will become a part of life and you’ll need a whole new set of cleaners and tools.

Plan your connectivity needs. Whether a dish for TV or high-speed internet access via the marina WiFi, you’ll need a connectivity solution so you’re not cut off from work, friends, family and entertainment.

Beneficial Skills to Have for Living Onboard

Maintenance on a boat may be worse than in a house in terms of frequency and specificity. Basic plumbing, electrical and mechanical skills will be needed because boat systems are generally less reliable than their household counterparts. The alternative is calling a contractor for every issue.

Cost of Living on a Boat

Don’t assume that you’ll save money by moving aboard. Here's some expenses you may incur by living on your boat:

• Boat mortgage payment
• Boat insurance
• Waste management
• Food and water

The best way to manage expenses is by making a budget and sticking to it. Depending on the size and value of the vessel, boat insurance may be just as expensive as house insurance. Property taxes will usually be less as will electricity since you’ll not be heating/cooling/lighting as big a space. You’ll probably save money on waste management, gas and water as well.

Where costs rise dramatically is maintenance . Marine parts and labor are usually more expensive—sometimes 20% more, than typical household counterparts. If you take on the tasks yourself and you’re self-employed, every hour you spend working on your boat is an hour you don’t make money.

Learn More in our Boat Insurance Guide

Safety & Security

You’ll need to decide whether to invite strangers inside, and if kids and pets will be safe around the docks. Install CO2 and smoke alarms and a propane sniffer, check the fire extinguishers periodically, and keep an eye on the basics like bilge and battery levels. You may also want to consider the following:

• Will you be safe walking from the parking lot to the slip at night?
• Will your nice car be okay outside the garage 24/7?
• Who will call you if your boat starts to list when you’re on vacation?

There aren’t really more or fewer safety issues, just different kinds.

Daily Life & Socialization

Socializing is easier in a marina than in a neighborhood. Neighbors help neighbors in marinas but it’s a two-way street so be ready to lend a hand when needed. If you’d rather live anonymously, consider an end tie in the forgotten corner of the marina. Although there are challenges to living on a boat, if you’re prepared, you may find it a perfect fit.

I already have a boat in a slip in a marina, so can I just move aboard?

Most marinas require an application for you to move aboard permanently. In some areas, liveaboards aren’t permitted or there are long waiting lists. Liveaboard slip fees are usually higher and your insurance rates may increase if your boat becomes your primary residence.

How do I live aboard a boat with a pet?

Dogs, cats and other pets need to acclimate to their new environments. They need exercise, private space and easy access to food and a potty. Make sure stairs and docks are safe for them and that they know how to get on the boat or dock if they fall in the water. Be careful of small spaces where they can get trapped and wires they can chew. Teach them about their new environment and be patient.

Learn more in Boating with Pets and Tips for Taking Your Dog Boating .

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• Costs of Boat Ownership
• Boat Maintenance Guide
• Insuring Your Boat
• Boat Safety Guide

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Life on a Sailboat: Everything You Need to Know About Living on a Sailboat Full-Time

Living on a sailboat full-time is often romanticized as a life of endless sunsets, gentle waves, and freedom on the open sea. Many dream of casting off the lines and setting sail for a horizon of adventure and tranquility. However, the reality of life aboard a sailboat can be as challenging as it is rewarding, as frustrating as it is relaxing, and, more often than not, as mundane as it is exciting.

This blog post aims to peel back the curtain on the picturesque scenes to reveal what daily life is really like when you call a sailboat home. We will dive into the motivations, preparations, joys, and challenges of living on a sailboat full-time, providing a realistic glimpse into a lifestyle that is far from ordinary.

Our Live-Aboard Life

Our dream of living on a sailboat was a distant one for many years. But as we watched plans and dreams fall by the wayside in the wake of COVID, we made the decision to make our dream a reality. Once the borders opened up, we made a beeline for the Mediterranean and have since spent each summer living aboard our little 29-foot sailboat Whisper. Without any experience sailing or living on a sailboat, we have taught ourselves to sail and manage life on the boat along the way.

Before we took up sail life, we had been living “van life,” and we’ve come to realize there are lots of similarities but quite a few differences between the two . However, on the whole, learning to live van life first put us in good stead to take on life on a sailboat. Unlike most people, we up-sized when we moved onto a boat.

Despite the upgrade in living quarters, the learning curve and the adjustment to living on the sea were no less challenging. Nevertheless, the shift was not as scary as we thought it might be, and the reality of living on a sailboat full-time quickly became our new normal.

Initially, our plan was to buy a boat and spend one season aboard sailing the Mediterranean before selling the boat and settling down. Instead, it’s safe to say we have fallen in love with life on a sailboat. Now, as we enter our third season, we aren’t sure when we will be ready to furl the sails for good…

Get a Taste of Life on a SailBoat

We document some of the realities of living on a sailboat full-time on our YouTube Channel in our The Vanabond Sails series.

Deciding to Live on a Sailboat

The journey to becoming a full-time live aboard often starts with the desire for change.

Some people are transitioning from one stage of life to the next as careers wind up or children move out. Some yearn for adventure and excitement, while others seek a simpler way of life. Many are drawn to the promise of freedom, the allure of the sea, and the appeal of living more closely with nature. However, the decision to live on a sailboat full-time is not one to be taken lightly. It requires thoughtful consideration and planning.

For us, it was a long-held dream to sail and live aboard a sailboat. It was also a natural progression, having spent several years living and traveling by van . We were ready for a new challenge. 

It began with a conversation, then a plan, and then trawling classifieds for second-hand boat sales. Before long, the decision was set in stone, and we were on our way to Croatia to buy a boat , learn to sail it, and move aboard. 

Choosing the Right Sailboat

The type of sailboat you choose is critical and depends on your budget, sailing skills, and the kind of sailing you plan to do (coastal cruising, bluewater voyaging, etc.).

Will you prefer the size and stability of a catamaran, or will you prioritize the sailing experience of a monohull? Are you looking for something small that’s easily controlled and maneuvered by a limited (and potentially inexperienced) crew, or do you require the space of a larger vessel? Are you interested in the clean lines and comforts of modern boat designs, or do you prefer the style of older boats? There are a thousand decisions to be made when choosing a boat, and your own aspirations for boat life and, of course, your budget will be critical when it comes to making this decision. 

Spend as much time researching boats that are available in your price range, ask questions of sailors you know or on sailing forums, and, if possible, spend time aboard different types of sailboats to get a clearer picture of what life is really like on board before making a purchase.

Check out our full article on buying boat .

Emotional and Practical Considerations for Sail Life

Living on a sailboat means embracing minimalism and being comfortable with the idea of having less space and possessions.

You’ll need to consider the impact of such a lifestyle on relationships with family and friends, as it can mean spending long periods away from loved ones.

The decision also involves considering how to manage work or income while living at sea , which might include remote work, seasonal jobs, or living off savings.

There are plenty of options for those planning on working remotely while sailing. With the rise of remote work , there has never been more opportunity to work and sail.

All of these considerations represent potential challenges to adjusting to life at sea, but they are certainly not insurmountable. You just need to be honest with yourself and decide if your love of the open water and the freedom of living aboard a sailboat will be greater than the inconveniences.

Preparations and Adjustments

Transitioning to life on a sailboat involves a series of preparations and adjustments, both practical and psychological, to ensure a smooth and sustainable living experience.

Training and Skills

If you are thinking about taking up sailing, you should, of course, invest time in learning to sail, navigate, and understand weather patterns. While this may seem like a daunting task, it’s not an insurmountable one. Time on the water is the most important thing, so it’s time to sign up for sailing courses, start planning trips with sailing friends, join a local sailing club, or seek out opportunities to crew for other sailors.

Learning basic boat maintenance and repair is essential to manage the myriad challenges that come with life at sea.

Safety courses, such as first aid, sea survival, and radio operation, are also crucial for handling emergencies.

These skills are important for safe and comfortable sailing and are often legally required. Make sure you are aware of the licensing and registration requirements for sailors in the region you are preparing to sail.

In our case, I had experience sailing small dinghies as a child and thus some understanding of the fundamentals, while Kelli had zero experience. My existing marine license issued in Australia was recognized in Croatia, where we bought our boat. I only needed to acquire a VHF radio license to become adequately certified for inshore sailing in the Mediterranean. 

We paid some local sailors to come aboard and teach us both the fundamentals of our new boat (lots of docking and anchoring practice).

Downsizing and Adapting to Limited Space and Resources

As mentioned, moving onto a boat was actually upsizing for us. With a second cabin, a flushing toilet, and a large indoor table, our relatively small 29-foot monohull seemed luxurious compared to the vans we had been living in until this point. 

However, for most, moving onto a sailboat often means significant downsizing, and space becomes a premium commodity. The process of downsizing for sail life involves prioritizing essential items and learning to live without the comforts of a traditional home.

Space isn’t the only limitation on a boat. Reliance on water tanks (if you don’t have a watermaker) and solar, wind, or generator electricity often means a downshift in access to creature comforts we take for granted in a house on the grid.

Creativity in organizing and making the most of limited space and resources becomes a daily practice, requiring innovative storage solutions and multi-functional furniture. Most modern sailboats are well-designed with endless space-saving measures and designs. Nevertheless, an adjustment will likely be necessary.

Financial Planning

Financial considerations are paramount, as the cost of living on a sailboat can vary widely depending on factors like marina fees, maintenance costs, and lifestyle choices.

Setting a realistic budget that includes regular maintenance, unexpected repairs, and living expenses is essential for sustaining life at sea.

Depending on your personal aspirations for boat life, this lifestyle can be as affordable or as expensive as you want to be. For us, as a couple in our thirties still in the building and saving part of our lives and careers, we are able to live on a boat in the Mediterranean affordably and comfortably for far less than we (estimate) we would spend living a more stationary lifestyle.

Check out our full article on the Costs of Living on Sail Boat Full-Time

Overall, adjusting to the confines and challenges of sailboat living demands not only physical preparation but also mental resilience and adaptability. The transition from land to sea is a profound shift, requiring a willingness to embrace simplicity, flexibility, and a sense of adventure.

Daily Life Aboard

While there is no typical day aboard, and experiences will differ wildly from person to person and day to day, we can describe what many of our days do look like.

As we work from the boat, our weeks are generally divided into work days, Monday to Friday morning and weekends. The truth is that the novelty does wear off, and many days, especially during the working week, become just as mundane as any other lifestyle. However it never stays mundane for long, one exhilarating sail, a dolphin sighting, a picture perfect anchorage or even surviving an impromptu weather event and the thrill of living on a sailboat quickly returns.

A typical workday for us living on a sailboat often starts with the sunrise (or a little bit before if we have a lot on). Ideally, we are well rested after a still night without rolling swell or, worse, strong wind, but that isn’t always assured at sea. Mornings involve checking the weather first and foremost, all plans revolve around the direction and strength of the wind and waves. 

If the weather is calm, we usually try to work in the mornings when we are fresh and focused.

We travel slowly, often spending a few days in a quiet, well-protected anchorage, on a town quay, or in a marina before moving on a short distance along the coast. On sailing days, we often sail in the afternoon when the winds are a bit stronger in the Mediterranean. On days we are staying put, the afternoon might be spent exploring a new town, getting provisions, swimming, or finding a beach to lie on and read a book. In the evening, we will cook dinner onboard and get some more work done or watch some TV. 

Weekends look different, and we will take advantage of not needing to be close to reliable network services, completing longer passages along the coast, or visiting islands. 

Daily Differences in Sail Life

Living spaces on a sailboat are compact and multifunctional, necessitating an organized and tidy approach to prevent clutter and ensure safety. Cooking in a small galley kitchen presents its challenges, from securing pots and pans on a constantly moving boat to managing limited ingredients and storage.

Meals often need to be simple yet nutritious, requiring creativity and planning. Our approach is to cook simple, one-pot, vegetarian meals like dal or vegetable curry two or three times during the workweek and eat leftovers for lunch and dinner. On the weekend, we like to get more creative with our meals, seeking out local produce or fresh seafood and taking our time to prepare something special.

As mentioned, resource management is a critical aspect of daily sailboat life, especially when it comes to conserving water, fuel, and electricity. Efficient use of these resources is vital, whether it involves careful water usage, monitoring power consumption, or planning the next opportunity to resupply. For us, an electricity supply is mainly dependent on the sun when we are not under motor or plugged into shore power. Extended periods of cloud can alter our plans. Similarly, if we are not careful with water, more frequent visits to refill are required, which can be limiting. 

Personal hygiene and privacy take on a new meaning in the confined space of a sailboat. Showers may be quick and infrequent. In our case, we generally rinse off after a swim to bathe and take proper showers during marina stops. Personal space is limited on a sailboat and managing personal relationships can have extra challenges.

Sleeping on the boat can take some getting used to, especially when on anchor. Even on a calm day, the constant rocking of the water can be disruptive at first, and novice sailors may find they get seasick, although these symptoms usually go away after a few days. When it’s windy, or there is some swell, the noise, movement, and the ever-present worry that the boat may pull off its anchor with the movement can make it very difficult to get a good night’s sleep. 

Unforecast storms, gear failure, or some other emergency can occasionally create scary and challenging scenarios, especially if disaster strikes late at night. These situations are part of the adventure but can certainly be stressful.

Despite the challenges, daily life on a sailboat is interspersed with moments of profound beauty and peace. Whether watching dolphins play in the bow wave, enjoying a sunset over the ocean, or stargazing on a clear night, these experiences often make the hardships worthwhile, offering a sense of freedom and connection to nature that is hard to find elsewhere.

The Pros and Cons of Living on a Sailboat Full-Time

Pros: the joys of sailboat living.

Living on a sailboat brings a unique set of joys and rewards that can make the challenges seem insignificant.

+ One of the most significant benefits is the sense of freedom and adventure. Sailboat dwellers have the luxury of exploring new destinations, anchoring in secluded bays, and experiencing different cultures in a way that most people never will. The ability to call a variety of picturesque locations home, even if only temporarily, is a remarkable aspect of this lifestyle. Even compared to other forms of nomadic lifestyle, waking up in your own private bay or cove is hard to re-create. 

+ The connection with nature is unparalleled in sailboat living. Being surrounded by the vastness of the ocean, witnessing marine life up close, and experiencing the rhythms of the sea create a deep sense of harmony and peace. The simplicity of life on a boat can lead to a greater appreciation for the small things, like the beauty of a sunset, the changing colors of the sea, or the silence of a night watch under the stars.

+ Community and camaraderie are also central to the sailboat lifestyle. The sailing community is known for its close-knit, supportive nature, with fellow sailors often ready to lend a hand, share advice, or offer companionship. This sense of community extends across harbors and anchorages around the world, creating a global network of friends and contacts.

+ The personal growth and self-reliance developed through sailboat living are profound. Navigating the challenges and unpredictability of the sea fosters resilience, problem-solving skills, and a strong sense of self-confidence. The lifestyle encourages continuous learning, from mastering sailing and navigational skills to understanding weather patterns and marine ecosystems.

The Cons: The Challenges and Hardships of Liveaboard Life

While the joys of living on a sailboat are plentiful, the lifestyle also comes with its fair share of challenges and hardships. These difficulties test the resilience and adaptability of those who choose this way of life.

– One of the most significant challenges is dealing with bad weather. Storms, high winds, and rough seas can be terrifying and dangerous, requiring skill, experience (which you can only get by …experiencing it), and a calm demeanor to navigate safely (perhaps the trickiest thing to achieve). The stress from poor weather can be mentally draining, disrupt work, and put a strain on relationships.

– The learning curve required to become a confident and comfortable sailor is not small and can take many seasons while mastering sailing can take a lifetime.

– The constant exposure to the elements also means that maintenance is a never-ending task, with saltwater and sun causing wear and tear that must be regularly addressed to keep the boat functional and safe. Especially on an older boat like ours, fixing and maintaining gear and rigging is an endless cycle. Most systems and hardware on the boat are essential, and when they fail, there is often no one around to help. Constantly sorting out jammed anchors, engine or electrical issues can quickly become tiresome and (if you are trying to work) quite disruptive. It can also be quite stressful when critical systems fail.

– Isolation is another aspect of sailboat living that can be challenging. Long periods at sea or anchored in remote locations can lead to feelings of loneliness and disconnection from land-based communities. The confined space of a sailboat can strain relationships, making it essential for the crew, be it a couple, a family, or friends, to communicate effectively and give each other personal space.

– The financial aspect of sailboat living can also be a hardship. Unexpected repairs and maintenance can quickly drain savings, and the cost of mooring, fuel, and supplies can add up. Sailors must be adept at budgeting and often need to be resourceful in finding ways to sustain their lifestyle, which might include picking up temporary jobs or remote work.

– The physical demands of managing a sailboat should not be underestimated. It requires strength, stamina, and a willingness to tackle everything from sail repairs to engine troubleshooting. The learning curve can be steep, and the responsibility of keeping the boat and its occupants safe is a constant pressure.

Despite these challenges, many sailboat dwellers find that the hardships are part of what makes the lifestyle rewarding. Overcoming difficulties and learning to live in harmony with the sea can provide a profound sense of achievement and satisfaction.

Final Thoughts About Life on a Sailboat

Living on a sailboat full-time is a journey that encompasses the full spectrum of human experience, blending moments of sheer joy and beauty with times of challenge and adversity. It’s a lifestyle that demands resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace the unknown. While the romantic allure of sailing the high seas is undeniable, the realities of daily life on a sailboat are grounded in practical challenges and the necessity of continual learning and personal growth.

The decision to live on a sailboat should not be made lightly, as it involves significant changes in lifestyle, mindset, and social dynamics. However, for those who choose to embark on this adventure, it offers unparalleled opportunities for freedom, exploration, and connection with nature. The hardships encountered along the way are not just obstacles but also catalysts for growth, leading to a deeper understanding of oneself and the world.

If you have a question about living on a sailboat full-time, let us know in the comments below or shoot us an email anytime!

Fair winds and following seas!

In 2016, I had been dumped by my girlfriend, fired from my job, and the lease on my house was running out. Facing moving back in with my parents, 26, jobless and alone I decided to listen to the message the universe was trying to send me. I took off on my first solo backpacking trip, with a one-way ticket to Bangkok and a well-thumbed Lonely Planet guide. From there I wandered Southeast and Central Asia, traveled the Great Steppe, and made my way across Russia and throughout Europe.

In Estonia I met Kelli, who, despite having a less frantic travel style, shared my my restless spirit and passion for exploration. Together, we embarked on a new journey, van life. Over four years we travelled across three different continents with three different vans.

In 2022, as the world began to re-open post COVID we took an opportunity to realise a long held dream, to live aboard a sailboat. Since then we have spent two summers in the Mediterranean, sailing and living aboard our little sail boat Whisper. When we aren't sailing we continue to live our nomadic lifestyle, guided by a philosophy of slow travel and self directed adventure be it by van or backpacking.

We find excitement through our journey into the unknown, stillness and content in the beauty of the places we discover and we find ourselves in the vastness of our world.

Hopefully, we can help you find what you're looking for too. Get lost with us and find your own path.

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Yachting World

• Digital Edition

How to live aboard a yacht for years at a time

• Helen Fretter
• April 24, 2023

What if one or two years of adventure just isn’t enough? Meet the cruisers who’ve been on board for a decade or more, and find out how to make long-haul cruising work for you

“I probably wouldn’t even recognise the person that I was when I first started,” admits Brian Trautman, skipper of the Amel Super Maramu Delos (and eponymous YouTube channel ). In 2009 Trautman cast off his life in corporate America, hustling to make his own tech business a success, and set off on what he thought would be an 18-month-long cruising adventure. Fourteen years later he’s still sailing the world on Delos , now with his wife and young daughter. But if you have no idea where the future will take you, how can you plan to keep your cruising options open?

We spoke to cruisers who have spent between eight and 40-plus years cruising and living aboard. Some set out with a rough deadline, others had no stopping point in mind, but the common theme is that all were able to keep their plans flexible and had made the life changes necessary to stay afloat.

“When Jill and I moved aboard our 1984 Grand Soleil 39 Yahtzee in Seattle in 2012, we had no time frame,” explains Andy Cross. “It was, and still is, open ended with the caveat that if the lifestyle isn’t working for one of us we’d reassess and make changes. We always intended for the boat to be our home, not just for cruising, and it wasn’t a ‘one, two or three years and we’re done’ plan.

“We both had jobs, but we weren’t tied down to the trappings of a house and cars, so it was relatively straightforward moving aboard, beginning to learn the boat, and starting a family. Our goal was to take it slow, not sail to a schedule too often, and hopefully share the dream with our children. I’m happy to say, we’re still doing that over 10 years later.”

Brian Trautman’s 14-year sailing adventure aboard SV Delos has grown to include a family and a livelihood

Trautman initially thought his cruising adventure would be for less than two years, having sold all his possessions and taken out a mortgage to pay for the boat.

“When I left, the time frame was 18 months. The reason is when I ran my budget and my monthly expenditures, I only had enough money for 18 months. So my plan was to just go, get somewhere cool – my intention was to try and make it to New Zealand – and then figure something else out.

“I didn’t know if I was going to stop and work when I got there, or if I was going to leave the boat and fly home. Or if I was going to sell the boat and go back to work. All I knew was that I was going to go now and figure out the rest at some later point.

“I ended up stretching that 18-month budget to about two and a half years getting from Seattle to Australia. When I stopped in Australia, we hauled Delos out of the water for about a year. I actually did remote consulting while living in Melbourne to make money for the next cruising season because after having had that taste, I knew there was no way I could stop then.”

Like Trautman, Ginger and Peter Niemann dipped back into ‘real life’ after their first major adventure – a four-year, 50,000-mile circumnavigation west-about from Seattle aboard their 47ft sloop Marcy , including rounding both the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Horn .

The SV Devos family onboard

“When we moved aboard we had the idea to live aboard ‘as long as it was fun’, to quote Lin and Larry Pardey,” explains Peter. “It was certainly fun for a circumnavigation , but when we returned to home port four years after departure we were out of cruising funds. We rejoined the working world while living aboard.

“I assumed that was the end of our life afloat, and asked Ginger if we should put the boat up for sale upon our autumn return or wait until spring when the market might be better? ‘Heck no, we are just getting good at this!’ she answered, ‘But maybe we should get a boat you can stand up in!’ And so we lived aboard, swapped boats and worked until the cruising budget was restored a couple of years later, and set off again.”

Ages and stages

Long-term cruising looks different at different life stages. The Cross family always planned to sail through their boys’ childhoods, but are flexible as to how long they spend afloat at any one time.

“Every year is different. Some years, we’ve been on Yahtzee almost exclusively, other years we’ve taken off a few months at a time. This has worked well for us because we’ve planned the time away around northern winters or hurricane seasons in the south – times when we might not be cruising much anyway.

“We want our boys to know and be a part of their grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins, and friends’ lives, which has meant taking breaks off the boat to spend time with everyone. Then, we return to Yahtzee excited, rejuvenated and ready to continue the adventure. Our ability to balance life ashore and cruising is one of the main reasons I think we’re still happy with the lifestyle of living on a boat.”

In the 14 years since he first sailed away with Delos , Trautman’s life has gone through huge changes. “I’ve found the love of my life, gotten married, sailed with my family, sailed with tons of friends, we’ve had a child on board,” he reflects.

SV Devos under sail

“When I first started cruising, I was absolutely in the frame of mind that I would spend 100% of my time on the boat. And as time has gone on, I’ve actually seen the value in taking time off the boat, because you don’t really understand how good something is until you take yourself away from it. So when we start to get a little edgy or a little like, ‘Oh man it’s another beach, but I don’t want to go to the beach today!’ then we know that it’s time to take a break.

“So at least once a year now, we’ll put the boat in a marina or yard, and we go back and visit our family for a few months. It’s even more important now that we have Sierra, because she’s three and a half, and I want her to know her Swedish heritage.

“But obviously, we fund our lifestyle through sailing and making YouTube videos. So if we’re not sailing and making videos, then we’re not making money.”

Some cruisers report that as they get older they find themselves spending more time ashore. After a second demanding circumnavigation, the Niemanns are shifting their sailing style. “We are just now entering a new phase of cruising plans,” says Peter, “We aren’t getting any younger, and recognise that at some point in time the stresses of voyaging will be more than we can easily handle. So for now we plan to enjoy exploring a smaller area in more detail.”

“The major life change was: cruising,” says Janneke Kuysters, who has been cruising with her husband Wietze on their steel-hulled Bruce Roberts design Anna Caroline for eight years. “After that, we haven’t had any major changes in our lives, apart from growing older and the repercussions of that re. strength and agility. In our minds we’re still 25, but the bones say different!”

Andy and Jill Cross try not to sail to a schedule but still spend a lot of time aboard Yahtzee 12 years after first setting out on their adventure

Both the Niemanns and Janneke and Wietze admit, however, that they don’t necessarily find being ashore more restful. “We have always needed to get back to the boat to regroup. Afloat is our comfort zone,” says Peter Niemann.

“We would typically fly to the Netherlands every two years for about three weeks, but the boat is our home, so that is where we feel happy and comfortable,” says Janneke.

For Janneke and Wietze, time ashore is instead spent exploring new countries. “For instance: we left the boat in Valdivia, Chile, for five months to go backpacking all over South America. In Australia, New Zealand and South Africa we have rented or bought a campervan to travel inland for weeks or months on end.”

Power of knowledge

‘To cruise is to learn,’ wrote Lin Pardey in The Self Sufficient Sailor , and with experience comes confidence. Many cruisers who have sustained their adventures for decades began their adventures relatively cautiously, building the skills that would then enable them to take on longer passages or explore more remote areas.

“When we were in our mid-30s, we sailed the Atlantic circuit with our 31-footer. This was a test year, meant to find out what it was all about and to gather information,” recalls Janneke. They then bought Anna Caroline “with all the knowledge we had gathered in mind”, and began an eight year circumnavigation – first sailing around Scotland, Ireland, Portugal and Spain before completing a transatlantic, then heading south to Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Antarctica and Patagonian Chile. They rounded Cape Horn, visited remote areas of the Pacific including Robinson Crusoe Island, Easter Island and French Polynesia, then headed north to Alaska and British Columbia.

The Cross family moored up

Cruisers often report that ocean crossings become progressively easier, and both faster and with less damage sustained, over the years. Much of that is down to the added knowledge they’ve gained, which feeds into making better decisions when it comes to sail selection, interpreting weather forecasts and predicting sea state, and knowing how their boat – and each other – fares in different conditions.

Also key is confidence in your own ability to handle any problems or fix any breakages when cruising more remote areas or for extended periods. Lin and Larry Pardey famously inspired many cruisers to cast off the lines with their advice to ‘Go small, go simple, go now’.

“I honestly feel that setting off cruising was a lot easier when we went because there was much less equipment that you added to your boat. So they were simpler machines, easier to take care of,” Lin Pardey says.

“I think that more people are put off cruising by the sheer hassle of fixing and having other people fix your boat, feeling like the budget is just being blown by mechanics and electricians.

“But it isn’t just keeping your boat simpler that matters, it’s being able to say, ‘Okay, I really don’t need that, so we’re not going to worry about fixing it right now’. It’s the ability to just do without it, if you can’t fix it. That’s a really important aspect of enjoying what you’re doing. I’ve seen people dream of sailing to the Tuamotus, but they get to the Marquesas with something broken and realise the only place they can fix it is Tahiti, so they just skip right through and miss the whole Tuamotus.

Ginger and Peter Niemann’s first circumnavigation was a four year trip aboard their 47ft sloop Marcy

“For example, the watermaker: if you make sure you have enough water tankage and learn to be quite happy with just limited water for a period, you can fix it later.”

Over years of living aboard, most cruisers we spoke to have made substantial upgrades or modifications to their boats to enable them to take on more adventurous cruising. “We try not to anthropomorphise, but we really have the feeling that ‘we take care of her, and she takes care of us,” says Peter Niemann.

“Our boats evolve continuously: equipment is upgraded, worn items replaced, dodgers added. Specialised Arctic (ice poles, redundant heaters) or tropical/desert (awnings, fans) items are acquired, stowed and put into service as needed. The essential major change we made to both our boats was the addition of cockpit shelter.”

“Pretty much every system has been upgraded over time. We have new instruments, a new chartplotter , a lot of solar and wind. One of the huge improvements was the lithium batteries because that allowed us to get rid of propane. And so we can really extend our range because it’s a lot easier to get diesel fuel in any part of the world,” explains Brian Trautman.

“We’ve also really upped our game with the dinghy. Our dinghy now is aluminium, it’s a little bit heavier, but we love it. It has a big engine, so it’s our SUV, our family car, and we need that.”

The Niemanns heading ashore

Pace yourself

When you have no fixed deadline, how do you plan? Most cruisers we spoke to sketch out ‘big picture’ plans determined by the seasons, but leave themselves the freedom to vary their route along the way.

“We typically plan about one season in advance, but we don’t plan in detail,” explains Trautman. “So right now, we’re planning our South Pacific season. And all we know is that we’re going to try and get to French Polynesia or the Marquesas from Mexico. We’re going to arrive sometime during April and then we have the next six or seven months to figure out what we’re going to do.

If it means we’re going to stay in French Polynesia for the cyclone season, or end up sailing west towards New Zealand for the cyclone season, we just don’t know.

“We just know we’re travelling generally westward best we can, and that’s often worked out for us. We pay attention to the big picture things: the hurricane season, cyclone season, when the good weather is, and we kind of make broad strokes to travel in that general direction.”

“Seasonally, we’ve set our plans to cruise more miles during summers in northern climates and then stopping or slowing down during the colder months of winter. It’s the exact opposite now in the tropics,” explains Andy Cross.

“Here we have hurricane seasons to contend with in the summer and fall, and insurance parameters dictate where the boat can be to continue coverage during named storms.”

The Cross family making great cruising memories

Maintaining momentum is a tricky balance, and will be different for everyone. “What made it work for us is we went without serious plans and kept ourselves highly flexible, we went cruising to just really enjoy sailing,” explains Lin Pardey. “But the thing that really kept us from getting tired of it or frustrated by it was taking advantage whenever we met somebody who said ‘Our family is on this little island, you should go visit them.’ So instead of heading south with other cruisers, we’d turn and head to some island or other, and ended up with wonderful friends who introduced us to other friends. So it was that real unscheduled-ness that kept letting us have new adventures and go in different directions.”

Lin and Larry Pardey broke up their cruising routine, which saw them voyaging for some 47 years, with periods spent working and also treating themselves to short ‘holidays’ on land.

“What people don’t quite expect is that if you set off on a voyage around the world, the seasons push you on and it can leave you feeling tired,” says Lin.

“I’ve watched people sail from England to New Zealand over a year and a half period, because that works nicely with the seasons. But when they get here, they’re just tired of moving on. The fact that we had to work meant we didn’t feel we always had to keep moving on. Every year we’d stop for at least three or four months, to let us catch up with ourselves.”

Equally, long-distance cruising can be exhausting, and without a broad-brush plan it can be tempting to linger, cautions Janneke. “It takes (a lot of) effort to keep yourself and your boat going. You are in a strange environment all the time, change is a constant in this lifestyle. It’s easy to arrive somewhere and make it your home. Especially when you have an open-ended plan, it can be attractive to stay somewhere a little longer.

“But that has an impact on everything that follows: you can manoeuvre yourself in a situation where you have to stay somewhere much longer than expected, because of the weather. Beaten paths are there for a reason, and often this reason is the weather. If you decide to leave the beaten path, you need to be independent in making your own plans and time schedule.”

And, sometimes, it’s about knowing when to stop. “When it came to planning our voyage, we sat with a lot of people that had returned from a long trip. We found that there is a tipping point after about 8-10 years. When people stay out for more than that, it becomes less of a voyage and more of a way of life. We are project-minded people, so we needed the voyage to have a beginning and an end. So we left with a plan to stay out somewhere between six and nine years. It worked out to eight years.”

Go slow, stay loose

So how do you know which pace is right for you? “My advice would be go slow and keep it loose,” says Trautman. “Write your plans in the sand at low tide, and be okay with changing them.

“And just take time. You’re not out there to check items off of a list, in my opinion. There are some places where you’ll be okay with leaving after a couple of days, and there are some places you’ll really want a few more weeks just to enjoy. That could be a factor of the place, or it could also be a factor of your frame of mind after moving for so long. That’s all part of the lifestyle.”

If you enjoyed this….

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Living on a Boat Full Time: What to Expect as a Liveaboard Cruiser

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12 Things I Wish I Knew Before Moving Aboard

Before moving onboard, there were a lot of things I thought I knew about living on a boat full-time. Despite my research, I was only scratching the surface of what it’s like to live this lifestyle.

From the weather’s impacts to route planning and provisioning – traveling on the water is different.

After two years of living on a boat full-time, here are a few things I wish I had known before moving aboard.

1. There will always be things to fix.

You hear this all the time when talking to anyone about life on a boat. No matter what type of boat you have, it will need constant upkeep. When one thing gets fixed, three more will break.

Like many first-time boat owners, we heard this over and over. Of course, it doesn’t hit home until you see the survey that details every last inch of issues. Or when you start living aboard a boat and experience first-hand the deterioration in a marine environment.

The good news is you can become a master of prioritizing your boat project to-do list.

• Consider essential things versus cosmetic projects.
• Look at safety versus nice-to-have updates.
• Weight the time it takes to fix something versus the maintenance costs of it hiring out to a contractor or boat yard.

You can learn to improvise and create workarounds when you need to, and most boat owners ultimately become handy out of necessity. Over time you’ll recognize the importance of having a safe, operational vessel.

Oh, and when you finally fix the broken igniter on the oven after two years, it will be that much more rewarding.

Some of the best advice you’ll receive is this – if you try and fix it all, you will never leave the boat dock.

So, find the strength to accept the five-page to-do list and get out there and enjoy your boat. That’s what all boat owners are out there trying to do!

READ NEXT: Check out our list of what you need in your sailboat tool kit .

2. living on a boat is like camping..

Even on a bigger boat with more than the average amenities – once you are out of the marina, living aboard is a lot like camping.

You are at the mercy of the weather when underway or on anchor. You have limited resources, no air conditioning, and access to grocery stores or other supplies is usually out of reach. On the flip side, you have the ability to visit remote islands and other exotic places and immerse yourself in the beauty around you.

In the woods and on the water, you think about things like navigation, water supply, and provisions.

Both activities give you a sense of independence and teach you about survival in nature. You can get by without the most modern conveniences and with a minimalist approach to living (although you will probably want some creature comforts).

Do you enjoy the logistics and planning, as well as the communing with nature that camping offers? You might also like the challenges and rewards of living on a boat.

3. You need to be diligent with cleaning.

Living in a marine environment requires a substantial commitment to cleaning.

Before living aboard, I remember thinking – cleaning will be a breeze in such a small living space.

Well, not really. Yes, it’s smaller, so tidying is quicker. But putting things in their place can sometimes be a challenge. Storing items with the marine environment in mind requires extra steps. Sometimes getting into storage areas is also inconvenient.

The key to keeping your boat tidy is storing the most often used items in places that are accessible.

Where cleaning is concerned, the marine environment creates obstacles different from land living.

Mold grows fast – even faster when the temperature drops and condensation is an issue.

Dirt comes in from every hatch and door that’s open. If you’re on a catamaran, dirt enters through a dozen hatches and a large cockpit door that’s usually open.

There’s also a load of areas that need special attention to keep clean.

• the boat bottom
• ground tackle
• outside of the boat and the gel coat
• fresh water tanks and black tanks
• stainless steel

These areas are continuously affected by everything from corrosion to marine bottom growth. They need specific cleaning products and techniques to keep them in ship shape.

Besides your own research, ask around for helpful tips from fellow boaters. This will save you extra work and help you avoid surprises in the future.

4. It takes time to learn the boating world.

Learning to sail, maintain a boat, and live on a boat is not something you learn in a week or even a few months.

Some cruisers say it takes around three years to find your groove within the liveaboard lifestyle.

When you move aboard your first boat, you are pretty much learning a new way to live. Especially if you are jumping in with little previous boating experience.

All the boating things take time to master. Besides learning how to operate your boat, you have to learn how to live on it. Including but not limited to the below.

• navigating and route planning
• anchoring and docking
• radio communication
• regular maintenance (diesel engines, plumbing, electrical, etc.)
• resource management (water, power, fuel)
• provisioning

In each of these areas, there are things we are still working on. It takes time to develop skills. And in some cases, it takes a lot of experience in many different locations.

Learning these new skills is both challenging and exciting. It can also be a little scary. You are pushing yourself out of your comfort zone at every turn.

When you make a mistake, consider it one of many future valuable cruising lessons.

When you succeed, celebrate! Even the smallest victories are worthy of a sundowner toast when you live on the water.

5. You don’t need a big wardrobe onboard.

When I was planning to live aboard, a big project was downsizing my wardrobe. I prepared to cut my wardrobe down to about 20% while being meticulous in choosing what to bring on the boat. 

I got rid of tons of clothes and only brought a small fraction of my previous wardrobe aboard. But I didn’t need even half of it.

Seriously, you don’t need many clothes on a boat. You just need the right clothes.

Determine a few types of comfortable items appropriate for the climate you intend to live or cruise – then you’re set. Once you find your “boat uniform,” you’ll wear it every day.

Sure, you’ll want things for the occasional night out or shore excursion. But a couple of mix and match pieces will do. And very casual is usually sufficient for the average cruiser. I find I have way too many dressier items (which aren’t even that dressy.)

Here are a few clothing items that I kept that I shouldn’t have:

• casual clothing (shorts and tops) that are 100% cotton
• more than one dress or other formal clothing
• any leather
• more than one pair of jeans
• more than 4 or 5 swimsuits (find a few you love and ditch the rest)
• bulky sweatshirts
• more than 1 or 2 quality sun hats

With any good minimalist wardrobe, layering is essential. Identify items that are flexible enough to wear alone or under other things.

The capsule wardrobe concept is also a good idea on a boat. Research strategies behind these wardrobes and apply them to your closet on the water.

READ NEXT: Find more info in our guide for how to downsize your wardrobe and our post on what to wear sailing.

6. start living like you’re on a boat before life aboard..

As a liveaboard, certain habits will make life in your floating home easier.

Developing routines to save water and practice sustainability are easier to tackle while you’re still enjoying land life.

Learning to cook things from scratch and testing new personal care regimes will save you time and stress.

Here are some things I wish I had started doing while still land-based.

• making pizza dough, bread, and bagels
• making yogurt
• making vegetable broth
• learning to fillet a fish
• provisioning (experimenting with dried and canned foods)
• adjusting personal care regimes (hair and make-up products, menstrual products, etc.)
• washing dishes with less water
• showering with less water
• minimizing laundry
• minimizing trash

Once you start cruising, you’ll have your hands’ full learning all the new boat things.

The more “boat life” habits you can instill before moving aboard, the more manageable your new lifestyle will be.

7. You’ll cook differently in the boat galley.

Before boat living, I would follow recipes to the exact ingredient. I wasn’t much for deviating from the formula. Then I moved on a boat where you rarely have precisely what the recipe calls for.

When you start cooking on a boat, you will begin to find replacements or substitutes out of necessity. Maybe you don’t have room for fresh bell pepper in the fridge, so you opt to keep roasted bell pepper in a jar. Or you learn that having dehydrated milk is more efficient for cooking.

The canned goods aisle will become an area you explore the most on your journey to master the boat galley.

I never purchased canned mushrooms in my land-living days. Now, I keep a stockpile. Also, canned potatoes, anyone?

The more you cook, the more experimental you’ll become. When you travel to new places, you can find items at the local farmers’ market and give them a try too.

You’ll also discover that certain types of food are more comfortable to cook on a boat. I never cooked much Asian food on land but started experimenting with stir fry, curries, and homemade ramen onboard. Carrots and onions keep well, and you can throw just about anything in a stir fry.

We enjoyed the process of learning what works for cooking onboard. It’s also fun to start mastering things from scratch, such as homemade bread, pizza dough, yogurt, and broth.

READ NEXT: You might also want to check out our list of 7 easy and versatile meals on a boat or our 5 ideas for a delicious breakfast on a boat .

8. you will want to throw your partner overboard..

When cruising with a partner, most of us have reached a point where you drive each other nuts.

The truth is living on a boat can be very stressful at times. And all the stressors tend to rear their heads at once. Add that to the fact you’re in a tiny, challenging living space, and tempers get short.

When we start to get at each other’s throats, we try to acknowledge it early and adjust. Sometimes just saying we are on edge and talking it through will help. Other times we need a break off the boat to find our composure and regain our patience.

Having a schedule adds to the pressure. The more you can cruise at your comfortable pace, the more likely you will not murder your partner!

The living situation on a boat will test your relationship. Take the time to talk about the triggers and maybe buy a set of “marriage savers” for anchoring and docking.

9. You need to be flexible.

A well-known sailing adage is, plans are written in the sand at low tide. 

If you don’t do well with last-minute changes, you might not love this lifestyle.

Your plans will frequently change living on the water. Then they’ll change again and switch back. Sometimes we’ll change our route two or three times on the morning of departure. 

Everything fluctuates based on weather, routing issues, boat issues, and plain bad luck. You may need to avoid a storm, pick up a spare part, or dock in a liveaboard marina for the season to take care of a health issue.

Traveling on the water, you’ll get more familiar with the idea of having a plan A, B, C, and sometimes even D.

Having many options is a way of planning while acknowledging you are in a fluid situation on a boat.

As you gain more experience, it will become more natural to accept changes. You might even find you’re immediately onto the next step when you hit an obstacle in your current plan.

A positive spin to this aspect of the lifestyle is you often end up in unexpected places. And sometimes, that’s not a bad thing. If you can roll with the punches, you’ll find appreciation in even the most unlikely plans.

10. Full-time cruising is a full-time job.

When you start cruising, friends and family might ask what you do all day. You’ll find this amusing. Because when you’re actively cruising, moving the boat regularly to new locations, THAT is what you are doing.

Cruising on a boat is a full-time job and hard work. It includes route planning, watching the weather, performing maintenance, provisioning, managing resources, and more. Not to mention taking your shift at the helm. You are never without things to do, especially if you are living primarily on the anchor or a mooring ball.

You’ll often find you have to tell yourself to put boat chores on hold and enjoy the benefits of the lifestyle.

Although cruising is a lot of work, the good news is you are the boss. So when you find yourself worn out or short-tempered, consider giving yourself a break.

Slow down, and throw the timeline out the window. The best thing about this lifestyle is about the journey as much as the destination.

11. The cost of living can be high.

Even on a small boat, cruising and boat expenses can get out of control quickly if you don’t stick to a budget.

Boatyards and maintenance costs, liveaboard slip fees, boat insurance, and more will empty your bank account or boat cruising kitty. If you work from your boat, you may also need to spring for high-speed internet access so you can work from remote locations (Starlink has recently become more popular in the boating community).

Depending on where you’re cruising, food costs and other everyday items can also be very expensive.

If you’re thinking about living on a boat, do your research on the location you’ll be cruising in, whether it’s the east coast of the United States or the south pacific, and find the average costs of liveaboard marinas and boat insurance to cruise in that area.

Also, be aware that the insurance premium may cost more in certain areas, especially during the official hurricane or cyclone season (if the insurance policy even allows you to stay in the area).

READ NEXT: Read our full guide on the cost of living on a sailboat .

12. living aboard can be uncomfortable..

Whether you’re out in open water or anchored near a bay, bad weather will find you.

High winds can bring rough seas, and this can make being on a boat very uncomfortable, both physically and mentally. However, the more boating or sailing experience you gain, the more confident you’ll be in these situations.

The reality is you can only plan so well for weather on liveaboard boats, and a lot of the time, you just need to be prepared for what mother nature throws at you. Most boaters will err on the side of caution when it comes to route planning for incoming storms and choosing to lay out more than less anchor chain!

Living on a Boat Full-Time: Is it Worth it?

If you are transitioning from a modern way of life, living on a boat will shake up your lifestyle. It’s an adventure that is entirely different from living on land.

My vision of what it would be like living on a boat and actually living on a boat are a far cry from each other. But nothing is ever as you imagine it.

If you’re up for the challenges, living on the water can be a unique and fulfilling lifestyle. From the skills you acquire to the places you visit and the people you meet – there’s no doubt cruising on a boat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Want to learn more about cruising full-time on a boat?

For more on finding the right boat, the cost of cruising, and learning how to live on the water, view our complete guide.

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Or view our web stories.

Morgan, the founder of The Home That Roams, has been living nomadically for over five years. She began her journey traveling across the U.S. in a motorhome and cruising on a liveaboard sailing catamaran. Currently, she lives full-time in a travel trailer, sharing resources on RV living and boat life to help others downsize their lives and thrive in an alternative lifestyle.

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Home » Blog » Live on a boat » Is living on a boat right for you?

Is living on a boat right for you?

By Author Fiona McGlynn

Posted on Last updated: August 16, 2023

Living on a boat sounds cool, but is it right for your lifestyle?

With real estate rocketing in cities like London, San Francisco, and Vancouver, a lot of people are ditching their pricey digs for a more adventurous and alternative lifestyle: living on a boat.

Living on a boat can afford you all kinds of benefits: cheap rent, amazing views, and may make you a more interesting person at dinner parties (results not guaranteed).

We lived on a boat for five years and it was a good choice for us, but it’s obviously not right for everyone. So, before you walk out on your sofa bed and five roommates, there are 10 things you should know.

You can save a lot of money on rent!

Is living on a boat cheaper? Yes! Living on a boat is cheap . We spent two years living on a sailboat in a marina in Vancouver with a full suite of amenities (power, parking, high-speed internet access, laundry, showers, workshop) and it only cost us $550 a month in liveaboard slip fees (our next best option would have been an apartment for $1100+).

If you choose to live on a mooring ball, it can cost you even less! In San Diego, we paid $150 a month for a mooring ball.

Usually, the cheapest place to live on a boat is at anchor, which is often free.

Of course, we had to buy a boat (that cost us around $10,000) but over two years, we more than got our money back. By avoiding high rent, we were able to save enough to set out on a three-year trip, sailing 13,000 nautical miles from Vancouver to Mexico to Australia.

Some sample liveaboard budgets:

How much money do you need to live on a boat? It depends on your location, boat, and how comfortable you want to be. We spent between $600- $2,000 a month while living aboard our boat.

• This young UK couple is living on a sailboat for  £500 ($570) a month while cruising around the world.
• This young family from San Diego told Insider they pay $2,200 a month to live on a 40-foot boat.
• These San Franciscans are living on a sailboat and spend just a few hundred dollars a month on rent and utilities.

Cost of living on a boat

While living on a boat is very affordable, there are ongoing costs and living expenses to be aware of.

Liveaboard insurance

Liveaboard insurance rates are more expensive than recreational boat insurance. For our 35-foot sailboat we’ve paid:

• $800 a year for liveaboard insurance (sailing in local waters)
• $1,800 a year for liveaboard insurance while cruising (sailing internationally)

While some boat owners we met, didn’t carry insurance, most boatyards will REQUIRE you to have insurance (and will check your paperwork) before hauling your boat out of the water.

Liveaboard moorage

Liveaboard moorage generally costs more than recreational moorage. Between 2013-2018, we found it was typical to pay $550-750 a month.

Your electricity bill will be a fraction of what you’d pay living in a house. When you live in a very small space (like a boat) you’ll consume less electricity for heating and cooling, meaning you’ll have a lower bill at the end of the month.

You may need to run your engine to charge up your batteries or run high-draw appliances like a water maker or air conditioner. Be sure to factor fuel into your monthly budget.

Many boaters use solar panels or wind turbines which, while pricey upfront, allow you to disconnect from the grid altogether.

Most marine stoves run on propane or white gas, so you’ll want to budget for fuel if you plan on doing any cooking aboard.

Marinas sometimes charge for fresh water. Our boat was designed to hold 66 gallons (250 liters) and we refilled our water tanks once or twice a week. The average person in the US uses 80-100 gallons of water per day ! Refilling our tanks was a chore, so we got better at conserving water.

Another option is to buy a reverse osmosis watermaker which turns seawater into fresh water. We installed one when we were cruising but it cost us over $3,000. There are much cheaper alternatives to watermakers .

You will also have to think about pumping out your septic holding tanks. Many marinas have pump-out stations and charge for the service. In most harbors, it’s illegal to empty your holding tanks into the water.

Pumping out sewage is not only bad for the marine environment, but it also gives liveaboards a bad reputation. So, don’t do it!

Maintenance costs

Boats are a lot of work, far more than a house. Stuff breaks all the time and you’ll need to be a good problem solver and ideally handy with tools. It’s hard work, but on the plus side, you’ll develop a whole bunch of new skills.

Your maintenance costs will depend on whether you’re doing the work yourself and the condition of the boat.

Generally, marine parts cost three to four times the price of household building supplies. A good rule of thumb is to budget 10% of the value of your boat in repairs, annually.

When boat shopping, remember that a cheap boat isn’t necessarily a good deal and may cost you a lot more in repairs over the long run.

You may get lucky and snag a cheap or free boat , but liveaboard boat prices can run into the six and even seven figures. If you finance your boat, you will have monthly mortgage payments.

Boat property taxes vary by location. E.g., Californians are assessed 1.1% of the vessel’s current value annually.

You can’t trick your partner into living on a boat.

For some people, living on a boat is a lifelong dream, for others, not so much. No matter how romantic you find the notion, do not attempt to live aboard if your partner is not game.

There are plenty of challenges: limited space, leaks, and potentially a lot of motion . Talk your partner into boat living and you may wake up one day to find they’ve jumped ship.

If your partner is on the fence, the best way to find out if moving aboard will work for you is to   test-drive the liveaboard lifestyle before living on a boat full-time.

Buying a boat is easy, finding a place to put it—not so much.

It can be very challenging to find a place to moor your boat. The best places to live aboard a boat often involve waitlists and permitting.

Many big cities have liveaboard licensing requirements. As a result, liveaboard marinas often have multi-year waiting lists.

It’s a good idea to call your local marinas and find out if they have available liveaboard slips before searching for a boat.

You may find your anchoring options limited, too. In recent years, many jurisdictions have started cracking down on long-term anchoring, often introducing time limits and requiring anchoring permits.

Don’t buy a boat until you know where you’re going to keep it. Some marinas may turn a blind eye to “sneak-a-boards” but you’re really risking getting the boot at any time.

Some of the best liveaboard cities in Canada and the United States

• Alameda, CA
• The Chesapeake Bay Area
• Corpus Christi, TX
• Portland, OR
• San Diego, CA
• Sausalito, CA
• Seattle, WA
• Tampa Bay, FL
• Vancouver, BC

Marinas vs. mooring balls – location will affect your lifestyle

Living on a boat in a marina will be very different from living at anchor or on a permanent mooring buoy. Finding the best place to keep your boat will come down to a few factors.

Some important considerations are things like electricity and water (in a marina slip you will have 24/7  access to both, whereas on the hook you’ll be living off-grid). This can make a big difference, for instance, if you want to have a shower (especially a hot shower ) every day. Doable at a marina, difficult if not impossible on the hook.

Other benefits of dock life include being able to walk off the boat . Going back and forth in a dinghy every day can be a nuisance, especially if you’re transporting pets, bikes, and heavy gear.

If you plan on having a boat dog , easy access to the dock will be especially important.

Other perks of liveaboard marinas are comforts like internet, cable, and laundry.

Often marinas can offer better wave protection (e.g., with break walls), which becomes important in bad weather. In a boat slip, you don’t have to worry about your boat dragging anchor. Also, protection from high winds and wave action will make life aboard more comfortable (as compared with bouncing around in an anchorage).

There are so many factors to consider when deciding between a marina, mooring field, or anchorage (too much to cover here), so check out “Where to live aboard a boat?” for more info.

Personal space – who needs it?! Living on a sailboat versus a house

The number one question people ask us is, “How do you live on a sailboat and not kill your partner?” Unless you’re living on a luxury yacht, there is no personal space on a boat.

Imagine that every time you want to walk from the kitchen to the bedroom you have to ask your partner to move out of the way so you can pass, and that about sums it up.

Also, many boat heads are often less (ahem!) private. We had a CS 24 where the head was literally under the V-berth, which made it very awkward if you had to get up to pee in the night.

That being said, we quickly adapted to not having much space. We became more organized, tidier, and attuned to each other’s needs while living in close quarters.

If having less space is your number one concern, consider looking at trawlers instead of living on a sailboat as you get way more living space and light on a 35-ft. trawler, than you do on a 35-ft. sailboat.

Boats you can live on:

While in a technical sense, you could live on any boat with a cabin, the best boat to live on will offer house-like comforts including a galley (kitchen), head (toilet), and a comfortable berth (bed).

Ideally, it will also have liveaboard essentials like solar panels, a cabin heater, and a big battery bank. Though you can always add these later.

Obviously, the size of your boat is an important consideration. As a single person, you may be able to get away with living on a small boat (e.g., a 24-footer) whereas the best liveaboard for a family might be 40-foot plus.

6 types of boats you can live on

There are six different kinds of boats you can live on and they all vary in size, comfort, seaworthiness, and cost.

Floating homes

As the name would suggest, floating homes are a type of boat that will give you the most house-like living experience. However, they are generally permanently moored and not convenient to move or travel with. They can cost as much as land-based houses to purchase.

Houseboats or canal boats

Houseboats and canal boats offer space for comforts like a full-size fridge and kitchen. They’re great for travel in protected waters and in the case of houseboats, can even be beached on the land.

Tugboats and Trawlers

Tugboats and trawlers have decent headroom and can accommodate comforts like big-screen TVs, full-size kitchens, showers, and sometimes even bathtubs. As most living space is above the waterline, they also tend to have lots of natural light.

Sailboats are a bit like the basement apartment of liveaboards and often do not have fridges, showers, or hot water. However, they also generally cost a lot less to purchase than motor vessels and you can travel long distances without fuel costs.

Catamarans are double-hulled sailboats that allow you to sail around the world in comfort but come with a significant price tag. The bridge between the two hulls creates plenty of open airy living space up top with bunks down below in the hulls. However, not only are they expensive to purchase, but they also take up twice the space and require twice the rent and maintenance cost.

The big compromise: creature comforts

Most inexpensive liveaboard boats do not have hot showers and laundry . They also have tiny bathrooms, kitchens, and hardly any storage space.

If you can’t bear the thought of giving up bubble baths, then living on a boat full-time is not for you. If, however, the idea of a minimalist, multi-purpose, stacking dish set cranks your gears – then you’re probably on the right path.

Making the most of small spaces can be a lot of fun if you’re up for the challenge.

Bear in mind, that some boats will be better set up for living aboard than others (we have a list of the best boats for living aboard) .

You will have the coolest neighbors

Boat living tends to attract some interesting people: artists, musicians, and engineers. Nick Cave and Rod Stewart both lived aboard in the U.K., as did Alan Watts in Sausalito.

Boat life also fosters a very tight sense of community. You’re far more likely to get to know your neighbors (which we think is a good thing!) .

Bring your home on weekend getaways

Who needs a second home when you can take your first home with you? Perhaps it’s kind of obvious but it’s great to throw off the dock lines and go cruising on the weekends. 

It should go without saying, but learn to sail (and be competent with your boat) before moving aboard. Not only will you need to be able to move your boat around for safety and practical reasons (e.g., going to and from the gas bar) but also it’s a wonderful activity.

While living on our boat we got to visit so many beautiful places in our local Pacific Northwest waters. As we gained sailing experience, we began to think about traveling farther afield.

Many of our liveaboard neighbors were experienced bluewater cruisers. They inspired us to embark on a sailing trip to Mexico and the South Pacific and gave us a lot of help along the way.

If you think you might like to buy a bluewater sailboat and go cruising or sailing around the world, living aboard is a great first step towards that dream.

Leaks and climate control will become your obsession

It’s a lot harder to live on a boat during the cold winter months.

Boats leak. If you live aboard in a wet city you’re guaranteed to wake up one morning with a soggy pillow or mystery puddle on the kitchen counter thanks to a leaky hatch or deck fitting.

Mold is another basic fact of life aboard and can become a major issue. Many full-time liveaboards opt to run dehumidifiers and heaters to keep humidity in check.

The good news is that both leaks and humidity are totally manageable if you stay on top of it.

If you live in a place with extremely cold winters (regular freezing temperatures) it gets even harder. For instance, on the lakes in Ontario, Canada, it’s sometimes necessary to run bubblers to prevent ice damage to the dock and boat.

The best view in the city

If the idea of living on the waterfront has always appealed to you, living aboard is a way to get those breathtaking views on the cheap.

It’s cliché but the best thing about living aboard is settling into the cockpit at the end of the day with a cup of tea or glass of wine and watching the sunset.

We found life on the water infinitely more peaceful and a great escape from the bustle of city life. If you’re up for an adventure, living on a boat full-time can be a great way of life.

Fiona McGlynn is an award-winning boating writer who created Waterborne as a place to learn about living aboard and traveling the world by sailboat. She has written for boating magazines including BoatUS, SAIL, Cruising World, and Good Old Boat. She’s also a contributing editor at Good Old Boat and BoatUS Magazine. In 2017, Fiona and her husband completed a 3-year, 13,000-mile voyage from Vancouver to Mexico to Australia on their 35-foot sailboat.

Sarah Smith

Friday 2nd of April 2021

Thanks for explaining that catamaran sailboats are going to be comfortable and provide a lot of living space. My husband and I had thought that we could only live on houseboats, but with your information, I would like to start looking into the catamaran sailboats. We'll have to find a luxury boat hire so that we can live on the water for a bit and decide what we would like to buy.

Friday 29th of January 2021

That is so amazing that even including parking, internet, and showers, living on a sailboat only costs $550 a month. My husband and I would like to downsize and explore now that we have both graduated college. We'll start looking for a sailboat and open parking spaces.

What if someone wants to live on a motor yacht as a live aboard, just moored at the marina. Not sailing around due to fuel consumption, just living in it. Could that be an option. I was thinking of looking into the 75 to 100' range for motor yacht but for live aboard moored. is it possible? Thank you for this article it was very informative. I am a Canadian from Ontario, currently living in Vancouver now. Thanks again.

Hi Jordan. Most live aboard marinas (the exception being floating home communities) have rules that the vessel has to be able to move under its own power. So as long as your yacht had a working engine, you would be fine. Having lived aboard in Vancouver, I think you might have trouble finding a 75 to 100' slip to moor your boat in. Most slips fall in the under 50 foot range. Thanks for reading and good luck in your search!

Friday 9th of February 2018

Thanks for the insight! We're trying hard to get liveaboard status at our marina in Sausalito and having the toughest time. Hoping persistence wins!

Thursday 1st of March 2018

Keep up the hustle! It's can be tough to find a spot but so worth it when you do. I seem to remember there's a bylaw that requires all SF marinas open 10% of their spots to liveaboards. I could be wrong but might be worth looking into. Also, we loved Valejo Yacht Club - great community run yacht club and they had spots a couple of years ago. Keep us posted on how it goes. Lots of our readers are SF based. If you wanted to guest post on your experience finding a spot in SF, that would be a very interesting read.

Friday 4th of August 2017

No worries, I searched the image on google and found that a mutual friend posted it on his photography website. I was just curious.

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6 Popular Boats For Full-Time Living (Affordable Options)

It’s a big investment to get a boat you can live in full time.

Here are some of the more affordable boats out there that we can fully recommend.

Hang with us as we guide you through some of the most popular and affordable boats for full-time living.

Table of Contents

Don’t Get “Sticker Shock”:

If you are choosing to live aboard a boat in you will need to brace yourself for the expense.

While this article is showing you “cheap” or “inexpensive” boats to live on, you should not be comparing them to other boats.

We are not talking about small boats here, but boats you can live on, remember.

Daily use boats do not afford the luxuries that a live-aboard boat can. This makes them more expensive. When looking at live-aboard boat prices, you will want to compare it to traditional living expenses. All choices for live-aboard boats are expensive and you will most likely be looking for a used, possibly even a “project” boat.

If you are looking for a new boat, or even a luxurious used boat you will need to be prepared to spend $100,000 or more depending on the size and type of boat you want.

An Affordable TRAWLER You Can Live On

A trawler is an inexpensive option that allows for generous space. Trawlers are also durable and can take large amounts of use. 

The wider hull of a trawler allows for roomy interiors that include bigger kitchens, more spacious sleeping areas and more room. This boat is also stable and accessible. This makes getting on and off the boat much easier.

They also have less draft than boats with deep hulls like sailboats and lower clearance on top for bridges.

Some cons of a trawler include noisy engines that are slower moving. They also consume large amounts of fuel.

Trawlers also will need maintenance just like any other vessel and can often be older, so they might require more maintenance up front.

1. Albin North Sea Cutter

North Sea Cutters made by Albin are large, spacious and elegant. These boats offer multiple comforts and sleeping areas.

Depending on the year you select, you could have multiple cabins and many places that convert into sleeping areas. You can purchase a used Albin boat that costs anywhere from $20,000 to over $200,000. These prices vary depending on space, age and amenities offered.

Models older than 2000 will often range between $20,000 to $80,000 and they can get more expensive from there.

An Affordable YACHT You Can Live On

2. beneteau swift trawler.

These boats can be swift, fuel efficient, and stable. They offer a spacious deck as well as spacious living quarters.

They often come with more than one cabin and enough room to move around and house more than one person.

The Beneteau Swift Trawlers are more expensive than the Albin models and will likely cost you more than $100,000.

If you are looking for a brand new Beneteau, you could be looking at a base price close to or even over $500,000.

So you definitely want to get a used model if you are looking for a cheaper alternative here!

2 Affordable SAILBOATS You Can Live On

Sailboats can be a relaxing option for your live-aboard vessel. Sailboats come with an open deck and oftentimes have plush cabins situated in their hull.

Some of the appeals of a live-aboard sailboat are that you will spend less money on gas. They are also quieter than their motorboat counterparts.

If you choose to live-aboard a sailboat, you will want to make sure that you have a motor available in case you do not have a cooperating wind.

3. Island Packet 35

These boats are smaller than the trawler options and are better suited to housing smaller families.  They have one main living and sleeping quarters so there is not a lot of privacy offered. These will be ideal for a couple. 

These are very popular choices among sailing cruisers and they were designed with sailing in mind. They are very user-friendly sailboats.

The prices on an Island Packet range close to $100,000.

You will be looking for a used vessel, though, as these were not manufactured after the mid-1990s.

4. Cabo Rico 38

Cabo Rico boats were designed with luxury in mind and it is reflected in their prices.

Older models from the 1980’s and 1990’s range between $80,000 and $100,000 while newer models that were made in the early 2000s can easily reach over $300,000.

The main goal of these boats was to increase the appeal of their aesthetic.

Like the Island Packet, these boats are more ideal for smaller couples. This boat also has an abundance of clever storage spaces that will help you maximize the space that you have. 

Affordable MULTI-HULL Boats You Can Live On

Multi-hull catamarans can be either double or triple hulled.

The benefit of a multi-hulled vessel is the stability offered as well as the possibility for separate living spaces.

A catamaran offers a wide and spacious deck, however, the living spaces in the hulls are generally smaller than they would be on other vessel types.

The major disadvantage of a multi-hull option will be price. Because the construction of these boats is similar to building two separate boats, you should expect to pay more. If you want to live on a multi-hull vessel you could be looking at spending $100,000 or more.

Like a sailboat, you might consider a used catamaran.

In addition to a higher purchase price, these boats also might require two slips in a marina which can make them more expensive.

5. Lagoon 380

The Lagoon 380 is a smaller catamaran which is not the most common. The Lagoon 380 is the smallest catamaran in the Lagoon fleet.

Unlike some other inexpensive options, these are still being produced which offers you the chance to buy new, which means that you will be more likely to customize your boat.

This boat comes with a full bath and a large queen-sized berth or the chance to instead get four cabins. Stowage on this boat is impressive and it comes with many lockers and storage space.

The boat truly is impressive for its small size and will be comfortable for living in. The price of this vessel can range from $170,000 to over $200,000 depending on the year and the options available.

Other Lagoon options can be more expensive but are also great live-aboard vessels.

6. Leopard 44

If you are looking for a more luxurious catamaran, then you will want to look at the Leopard 44. 

The most inspiring part of the design of the Leopard 44 is the inclusion of two cockpits. This allows sailors to change where they steer based on the position of the sun and adds additional comfort.

This boat also provides edging on the surfaces so that you can feel where the boat ends. Attention to detail was key when crafting the Leopard 44. 

Like most catamarans, this vessel is also spacious and provides comforts and amenities that will be useful when living on board.  These include multiple berths and cabins that are well suited to housing more people.

The average price for this vessel is higher than the Lagoon 38 can range between $280,000 and $400,000.

Affordable HOUSEBOATS You Can Live On

If you plan on living aboard a boat without doing a lot of traveling, a houseboat might be ideal for you.

These allow for plenty of space, but are bulky and are not very efficient so they are generally used for living while moored and never actually venturing out on the water.

The most common form of houseboats is built onto pontoon boats. These boats can even offer full enclosures on the deck with plenty of windows and light.

Another downside to a houseboat is their price. Because these boats offer the most space and comfort they are pricey.

Houseboats can offer anything from multiple rooms to decks. They are essentially a house that floats.

Houseboats are often custom designed and are not generally offered as a part of a fleet or boating line. Prices also range wildly and could be anywhere from $30,000 used to over one million dollars.

When looking at houseboats you also have to consider location as a decision that needs to be made.

Houseboats are not designed to move so in addition to the expense of the boat, you are also often looking for a permanent place to put it, and that can be more costly than a marina or other available options.

What About The Bigger Yachts?

Even more expensive than the multi-hull vessel is the luxury yacht.

This is not an inexpensive option. These are the most expensive choice as they are essentially floating hotels.

For this reason, we have opted out of listing options for the luxury yacht, but they are an option that is available for consideration.

So How Do I Choose The Right Boat?

It is most important to choose your boat based on desired lifestyle, budget, and skill level.

If you do not want to worry about learning to sail, then you should look into the power boat options. 

You also want to make sure you pick the appropriate size.

If you plan to go down rivers often, you might not want a boat that is too wide or too tall. This can make river navigation tricky and stressful.

You also want to make sure that while you are conscious about how the size of your boat is external, you allow for enough space internally.

No matter what type of boat you choose you will be giving up some luxuries and living a more minimalist lifestyle. You need to look at what your minimum size requirements will be and start there.

Another thing that is extremely important when choosing is the condition of the boat. Because these types of boats are so expensive, you will most likely be looking at used options.

This means that you will want to get your boat fully inspected before you buy it.

Much like you would get an inspector for your home, you are able to hire marine inspectors who can see things on your vessel that you can’t.

The most important places of consideration are the hull and the engine.

Even a tiny hairline crack in the hull can expand and get worse over time. These are also the most dangerous because you are less likely to see them and get them taken care of.

A marine inspector will also be able to give you a rundown on the vessel and this might help you plan for future expenses and even to negotiate a better price.

In addition to this, when buying a used boat you want to make sure you do not buy a boat that is exactly your budget. You will want to save at least %10 of your budget for possible issues and immediate maintenance needed.

Maintenance will be an ongoing expense that you will have to plan for in order to maintain the integrity of your boat.

Is It Possible To Live On A Boat Full Time?

Living on a boat full time is completely possible if you know what you are doing.

Where to Moor Your Boat:

One of your most major considerations will be where to keep your boat. Many places require marinas to have a liveaboard license and many of the places that do have long waiting lists that could last years.

If you know you want to live aboard a boat full time you will want to start checking into places right away. It would also be wise to not close a deal on a boat until you know you have somewhere to put it.

You will also want to consider the location of where you are mooring your vessel.

If you choose to dock your boat in a marina you will be more likely to have 24/7 access to both electricity and water. This is not true if you choose to live at anchor or on a mooring bay.

This can make a big difference in the comforts afforded while you are living on your boat.

Another consideration to make is the ease of getting on and off your vessel. If you do not moor in a marina you could be relying on a dinghy to get on and off your boat and this can quickly become a hassle, especially if you are transporting things with you as well.

Live-aboard marinas often provide more comfort to you, such as cable, Wi-Fi, or even laundry.

Marina’s do come with a higher cost, so you will have to decide if this is worth it to you.

Comfort Issues To Consider

One major challenge of living on a boat is space. Even with a spacious boat, you will always be living in close quarters to your boat-mates.

Depending on the size of boat you get, you could be asking your partner to move every time you want to move to a different room or area of the boat.

This can quickly get annoying and you will want to make sure that you and your partner both understand the reality of the situation.

Even if you plan to live alone you can be looking as small and confined spaces.

One good way to know if you can handle the day to day challenges of a liveaboard lifestyle is to try it out first. There are plenty of ways to rent a boat to test the waters before you take the plunge.

Another challenge is living without the comforts that most people have every day. Most liveaboards that are affordable do not have hot showers or laundry. 

They also usually have small kitchens and bathrooms with small amounts of storage space. If you are a person who likes to have everything and minimal living is not something that sounds appealing, living on a boat is likely not for you.

To keep your space comfortable, you might want to also consider a dehumidifier to keep your humidity in check.

Important Safety Considerations

One major thing to make sure you plan for is safety. Like all boats, you will need to have the proper life preservers and flotation devices. This is a legal requirement on all water vessels.

In addition to the proper flotation devices, you will want to make sure you have all other required safety equipment.

This includes a fire extinguisher, a carbon monoxide detector in all enclosed areas, a flare, an emergency kit, and a first aid kit.

You should also have anything needed to repair unexpected maintenance issues. Depending on where you are, you will want to make sure you can deal with any issues that might arise until you can get to help.

In addition to the standard safety precautions, living on your boat comes with a few more.

If you are planning to live on your boat, and travel, you will want to make sure you are confident in your abilities and your boat itself before you get too far away from shore. It is wise to spend a few months cruising near land and shores before you attempt any long trips.

You also need to ensure you have the proper communication equipment on board.

Depending on how far from shore you get, you might not be able to communicate using traditional methods such as a cell phone.

A cell phone will be less effective the farther away from shore and any cell phone towers you get.

You should be sure to have satellite communications, a marine radio, and a Ham radio on board.

You will also want to make sure you regularly get your boat inspected and perform any routine maintenance. A boat that is fully functioning and well maintained will be the safest.

How Much Will Living On A Boat Cost Me?

Despite the large upfront cost, living on a boat can be cheaper than living in a traditional manner.

Costs that come with a live-aboard boat can include, but are not limited to:

• Insurance: Just like with a home, car, or daily use boat you will need to pay for insurance. The live-aboard insurance rate will be higher than just recreational boating insurance. This insurance can sometimes compare to home insurance.
• Moorage: Like insurance, live-aboard moorage is more expensive than traditional insurance. You will also need to go to a marina that holds a live-aboard license.
• Mortgage Payments: If you cannot pay for your boat out of pocket, which is likely, you might have to make loan payments on it. Depending on what you spent on your vessel this could be costly.
• Maintenance Costs: After your initial purchase you will still need to spend money on boat maintenance. This expense will vary based on the age of the boat, how often you perform regular maintenance, and how you use the boat itself.
• Utilities: Based on how you have decided to live on your boat, you might have utilities or additional costs with the marina. This will likely still be less than you would pay in a traditional living situation.
• Provisions and Entertainment: Just because you don’t live in a traditional manner, you will still need to buy traditional items such as food, toiletries, and entertainment. If you live completely without the comforts you are used to, your experience will not be very pleasurable.

Most importantly while looking at expenses, you need to make sure you are budgeting and stick to it.

If you are not able to afford your lifestyle, you will not have a lot of immediate options.

If you choose to travel while you sail, budgeting will be even more important. Traveling often does not allow for a traditional job and you do not want to overspend if you do not have any money coming in.

If you know this is the lifestyle you want to live, you might consider going all in. Many people sell their homes in order to live this lifestyle.

What Boat Should I Get For Full-Time Living?

Before you buy a boat to live aboard, you need to be clear about your needs.

There are a lot of options to choose from and this is not a decision to rush through. One of the first things that you need to decide when picking a boat is whether you want a motorboat or a sailboat.

A Sailboat Or A Motorboat?

Sailboats are not just appropriate for ocean living, they are also good for lake, river, or bay living. Sailboats are quieter than motorboats and are generally more economical because they use less gas.

One issue with sailboats is that they require more skill to handle and they might not be ideal for a singular person.

Like any boat, you will want to ensure that you are choosing the right size. If you plan on using your sailboat in a river, you will want to think about the required clearance when it comes to bridges.

Motorboats with ample cabin space can also be ideal for full-time living on a lake, river or bay.

These boats are often very spacious and easy to handle. Unlike sailboats, you do not have to take classes or training to be able to maneuver or handle the vessel. Motorboats that you can live aboard can range from trawlers to yachts to certain types of catamarans .

Motorboats do not rely on the wind and this can make them ideal for a boat you want to do both living and traveling on.

The issues with motorboats is that you will need to consider gas and other expenses that come with running an engine.  They are also louder than sailboats and often their engines are placed close to living quarters. This can make sleep difficult if you are moving.

Below are some inexpensive boat options that would be perfect for full-time living .

What Are The Benefits?

Even though this all might seem very expensive, there is a large list of benefits as well. 

Living on a boat can be cheaper than living in a traditional home, especially in high priced areas.

The main reason that you should live on a boat is the freedom and adventure that comes with it.

You would be able to take your home on vacation with you or just pick up and go to a new location.

You are also more likely to meet adventurous and like-minded individuals who will most likely have interesting stories to tell. 

One of the best parts about living out on the water is the views that you will see. There is nothing quite as beautiful as waking up to a sunrise over the water.

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10 Small Superyachts That Offer Supersized Interiors

These sub-100-footers combine broad beams with unconventional interiors to create the space of superyachts that are sometimes twice as long., howard walker, howard walker's most recent stories.

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For many yacht owners, the solution to finding more space aboard for friends and family is summed up by that immortal line by Chief Brody in Jaws : “You’re gonna need a bigger boat.”

Until now, bigger has typically meant longer. But that’s quickly changing as more and more builders are creating interior volume by going wider and taller. For disrupter builder Wally Yachts and its polarizing new Wallywhy 150—which refers to its internal volume rather than the boat’s length—the quirky design is said to deliver 50 percent more space than more traditional 78-footers.

Other builders like Princess have been in the game since 2021. Its X95 first appeared several years ago, effectively throwing down the gauntlet as a way forward for sub-100-foot yachts to supersize both interior and exterior volumes.

Since then, many other builders of small superyachts have jumped on board, with designs that typically have somewhat bloated profiles, far-forward main suites, and open transoms—features all designed to maximize space but minimize length.

Here are 10 new yachts 100 feet and under that are breaking the mold in an attempt to dominate the nautical space race.

wallywhy150

It’s no wonder that disrupter Italian builder Wally—now part of the Ferretti Group—calls its latest head-turner a “spaceship.” Claiming up to 50 percent more space than comparable 78-footers, the 150 (named after interior volume rather than length) has standout features like a main salon with over eight feet of headroom, and a beam of more than 22 feet. The pragmatic design includes a one-level main deck attached to an open rear cockpit that offers easy access to the water. Its most noteworthy feature is the rule-breaking, full-beam master suite tucked into the bow on the main deck. It has wraparound glass—stretching all the way around the bow—for panorama-like views from the main bedroom. Priced from about $6.7 million.

Lazzara UHV 87

Short for Ultra High Volume, this new Turkish-built pocket superyacht is a sistership to Lazzara’s UHV 100 and 125 models. The newest Lazzara boasts an impressive 2,153 square feet of interior space in its 87-foot length. Arguably, the boat is not pretty in a classic sense. The towering hull sides, blunt, plumb bow, and dark-tinted glass make it look more like a dinner cruiser than a mini-superyacht. But the interior space is astonishing, from the cavernous Sky Lounge, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, to the salon with a separate, chandelier-lit dining area and chef’s galley. With a fuel capacity of 3,000 gals, the twin 1,000 hp Volvo D13s deliver a top speed of 16 knots. The boat also has transatlantic range. Base price starts at about $10.9 million.

Sunseeker 100 Yacht

Movie nights under the stars should have a whole new appeal aboard UK builder Sunseeker’s brand-new 98-footer. Lie back on the yacht’s extra-wide foredeck sunpad and watch the latest blockbuster on a 140-inch screen with laser projection. Or, if you’re the lucky owner, stargaze from your private terrace tucked away in the bow, just steps from the full-beam main-deck master suite, with atrium-style glass sliding doors. One of the best innovations here is the wide, uninterrupted walkway around the entire top deck, which provides safe, easy access from the flybridge to the forward entertaining space. With its twin 2,600 hp V16 MTU diesels, top speed is an impressive 29 knots. Priced from about $10.5 million.

Azimut Grande 26M

For its brand-new Grande 26M compact superyacht, Italian builder Azimut has gone extra wide to create massive interior and exterior spaces. Spatial highlights include a full-width flybridge that’s almost 20 feet across and close to 40 feet long, and a foredeck entertaining area that seems more like an outdoor patio. The Alberto Mancini-styled go-fast cruiser is crammed with space-enhancing innovations, such as a teak-decked garage door that, at the touch of a button, hinges upwards to extend the rear cockpit by almost five feet. New ZF pod drives coupled to the yacht’s twin 1,650 hp MAN V12 diesels also save space. It is priced from about $6.2 million.

Princess X95

As we said during our 2021 tour of Britain’s Princess Yachts’ tri-deck X95 “When it comes to the polarizing, head-spinning design, there are no half-measures, no in-betweens. You either love it. Or loathe it.” But what those eye-popping lines hide is perhaps the most spacious 95-foot luxury cruiser in the category. Reckoned to be some 40 percent roomier than cruisers with the same length, the X95 has stretch-out accommodations for up to 10 in five cabins and living spaces that rival most apartments. The flybridge covers almost the entire length of the yacht. The 100 is also fast, with twin 1,990 hp MAN V12s delivering a top speed of 23 knots. Prices start at about $12 million.

Extra X96 Triplex

This broad-beamed 96-footer is from the Italian builder Extra Yachts, which is part of the Palumbo Superyachts Group. While it’s called the Triplex, there are actually four levels if you include the cozy upper sundeck with its outdoor kitchen, dining area, and oversized sunpads. The exterior comes courtesy of Italian designer Francesco Guida, while interiors are by Milan-based Hot Labs. Both teams have made the most of the yacht’s class-leading 25-foot beam. Notable features include a vast full-beam master on the main level and an upper salon dedicated entirely to dining, with a table for 10, an open chef’s galley, and an adjoining outdoor bar. Twin Volvo IPS1350s deliver a 16.5-knot top speed. Priced from $12 million.

Sunreef 100

This Sunreef power catamaran’s beam spans a staggering 44 feet, offering the kind of interior and exterior spaces you only get with superyachts twice the length. Every element of the yacht is XXL-size—from the massive hydraulic swim platform to the full-width flybridge that covers almost 1,000 square feet. Down in the salon is a huge 11-seat U-shaped bar that would delight any mixologist. The five staterooms in the twin hulls have space for 10. A pair of 1,300 hp MAN V8 diesels delivers a six-knot top speed. It is priced from about $15.3 million.

Absolute Navetta 75

In Italian, the word “navetta” translates to “little ship.” Which is a perfect description for Absolute’s new 75-foot fast cruiser. It’s an evolution of the strong-selling Navetta 73 but with nearly two feet of extra length. The yacht’s expansive interior volumes will remain the same, with features like a forward master stateroom on its own level that has a private entrance steps away from the main salon. The salon features floor-to-ceiling glass, with full views of the water, courtesy of open bulwarks. Twin 1,000 hp Volvo IPS1350 diesels deliver a top speed of 25 knots. Pricing starts at about $4 million.

Arcadia A96

Cross a spacious Miami high-rise penthouse with a Canyon Ranch spa and the result could be this new 96-foot superyacht from Italian builder Arcadia. Boasting a remarkable 4,300 square feet of total living space, there’s room for 12 guests and five crew. And the living spaces even expand, courtesy of fold-down terraces in the main salon and on the rear deck. But the yacht’s focus on wellness and healthy living sets it apart. That expansive, teak-decked foredeck, spanning over 500 square feet, is perfect for yoga sessions or meditation, while the cockpit and beach club offer another 1,000 square feet of social space. For extra peace and quiet at anchor, solar panels can provide up to nine hours of generator-free power.

Numarine 26XP Fast

Think of it as offering pace, with space. Turkish yard Numarine has been building its bold 85-foot 26XP explorer style mini-superyacht since 2018, but later this year, it will launch the U.S.-focused 26XP Fast. Instead of slow-churning 435 hp diesels and nine-knot cruising, it’s bolting-in a pair of mighty 1,800 hp MAN V12s and modifying the hull to deliver a top speed of 31 knots. What hasn’t changed is the XP’s cavernous interior and expensive deck space. Take the top-deck flybridge which, thanks to the yacht’s 21-foot beam and far-forward helm, spans over 700 square feet. That space will include a dining table for eight, a full outdoor kitchen, and more lounges than a Saint-Tropez beach bar. Prices start from $6.95 million.

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Advantages of Owning Smaller Yachts: Adrian Morgan’s Boat Scale

Is it better to own a smaller yacht? Adrian Morgan’s column weighs up the advantages of scaling down…

Thinking of buying a smaller yacht.

It is a truth universally acknowledged that… the smaller the [wooden] boat the greater the pleasure, and I would add, just as important, far less of a chore to fit out. It takes time enough to sand, fill, prime and paint Sally’s topsides, then I look to my right where stands, propped up in the yard, a yacht not many feet longer than my modest 25 footer, and I thank goodness for small boats. Z4s, Hillyards, Debens of various kinds, et al, the list is long.

Those hardy souls who camp in dinghies under ingenious tents, heating their rations on portable gas stoves, get even more of my admiration. It’s great to be invited aboard a big wooden classic, and I treasure my time racing the McGruer Kelana, or squatting on the aft deck of Moonbeam, but would not envy her owners the task of maintaining them every year to the highest standards. That’s like grooming an elephant, when all you really have the energy for is to stroke a kitten. One is exhausting, the other is relaxing. Up to a point.

I reckon 25ft is about as much as one person can maintain, allowing a day for each of the annual chores. A day to sand the topsides, another to strip the varnish, one to antifoul , and so on. Sally comes into that category, but even so, after a week which begins with despair at the task facing me, then satisfaction in seeing the work list slowly shrink, towards the final push to complete all by the time the yard want to launch her, I have lost much of the enthusiasm and just want to see her floating to her waterline again at her mooring in Loggie Bay, a spit opposite the yard where she has been for a couple of weeks.

That 34 footer alongside Sally is more like a three- or four-day per chore boat, and I would not want to be the one to have to tackle the towering wall of gleaming white enamel every few years. Besides, you’d need staging, not the wooden ladder up and down which I clambered these past weeks. And I can just about reach much of Sally’s topsides from the ground, and the higher bits by standing on a few keel blocks placed around her. 

Adding a few feet to a boat’s length increases the work at fitting out exponentially. I used to long for the day when, flushed with cash from a series of best selling nautical murder mysteries I could scribble a list of what needed doing and let the experts at the yard get on with it. I would write cheques, and appear at launching. In fact last year I tentatively asked if anyone might be free to lay on a perfect coat of Hempel’s Polar White , as I’ve seen the difference between my efforts and those of a professional. I was once given a badger haired – I think it was, or perhaps Madagascan squirrel – laying off brush, something I’d not come across before, by a painter of superyachts. Apparently you apply the paint, then quickly caress the surface with the fine. I tried it once, but never again. It’s hard enough to keep a wet edge without stopping to caress what you’ve just achieved with the neck fluff of an exotic creature. Nope, Sally’s topsides are again this year flawless… from a distance, and that’s the way they will stay, until a new owner familiar with the techniques of laying on brushes, and (the correct) thinners takes her on.

Don’t get me wrong; maintaining a small wooden yacht as best you can, given sunny days and plenty of time is a vital and mostly pleasurable component of ownership. Once a year you get the chance to pore over every inch of her, stroke her flanks intimately in a way that is more akin to the grooming rituals of the animal world. For fleas, read flaking paint and tangles, small divots. And this year, annus mirabilis, I may finally have managed to achieve what I am hoping will be the perfect waterline. Hoping, as she has yet to be launched as I write this. After nearly thirty years of ownership, perhaps this time…

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The Best Liveaboard Marinas In Florida

If you are lucky enough to be able to live aboard your boat, the world is your oyster. Yes, truly. The world. You have a luxury that very few people do. You can pick pretty much any marina in the world and live there. So long as you can afford the Marina fees, you should have no trouble at all.

Once you are sure that living full time on your boat is for you, there comes the big question. Where do you want to live? The answer to that varies from person to person. Maybe you want to be close to a big city? Maybe you want to be near family? Maybe you want great access to the rest of the world? Maybe you want to live where the weather is good, the people are friendly, and the food is great? Maybe you want to liveaboard in Florida.

If that is the case, you are in luck, this article will act as your guide. This article not only explains why you might want to live in Florida but where exactly would be best for you. Here are some of the best liveaboard marinas in Florida.

Table of contents

Why might someone want to live aboard their boat in Florida?

Florida is a fantastic place to live. There is so much to do, so much to see, and the work opportunities are abundant. Florida may have a reputation for being a weird state, but that’s all talk.

Florida is very safe, it has strict laws with impressive transparency. Florida is an open book, if that’s something that appeals to you, maybe that alone is a good reason to move there.

If you are looking for a financial incentive, consider this. Florida has zero income tax. That’s right – 0% income tax. If you are someone making $50k a year, you may lose anywhere from $5k-$15k from that in taxes every year.

In Florida, you would keep all of that. Moving there is like getting an immediate raise. It is also important to consider this when you are factoring in your budget for a marina slip.

You will have far more disposable income, so you may be surprised how much more you have to spend on a high-quality marina slip in a prime location.

What are some things to consider when living aboard your boat in Florida?

Not everything in Florida is sunshine and rainbows. A lot of it is, but not everything. Florida is very hot, which is great. Florida is also very humid, which you might not enjoy as much. A lot of Florida is swampland, which when combined with the humid air, offers the perfect climate for mosquitos and other insects. If this is something that will bother you, maybe Florida isn’t for you. On the other hand, if you are living along the coast very close to the city there are going to be far fewer insects. Not none, but less.

Additionally, depending on where you live in Florida you may find the party culture uncomfortable. Miami can be crazy. It is a playground for the young, drunk, and wealthy. If this isn’t a problem for you, great! Maybe you are young, drunk, and wealthy yourself. If, on the other hand, you have left your partying and binge drinking behind you this may become rather grating over time. If you are trying to avoid this kind of nightlife, its a good idea to stick to Tampa Bay rather than Miami Beach. Despite what you might think, Tampa is far more relaxed.

The weather has been touched on briefly, day to day you have nothing to worry about. Bugs are annoying but not necessarily a big problem. What can be a big problem is the storms. Florida bears the brunt of a lot of tropical storms, tornados, hurricanes, twisters, cyclones, whatever you want to call them. A lot of them hit Florida. It isn’t uncommon for people to evacuate yearly for safer waters. This is typically a metaphor for ordinary folk. For people who live aboard their boat, this is literal. You may genuinely need to weigh anchor and sail for safer waters. Heading up the coast to New York in a hurry is a pain. It can also be very expensive.

If everything mentioned above has left you still wanting to live in Florida, perhaps it even made you more excited, then its time to pick where you might like to live. Choosing a Marina is not as much of a commitment as renting an apartment, leases can be far shorter and much more flexible. But, this normally comes at a price. You will be able to get a much better deal by committing to a longer lease. So, doing your best to make sure you pick the best marina for you the first time around is very important. It could end up saving you a small fortune in the long run. This next section is here to help you do just that.

What should I be looking for in my marina?

Your marina needs to work for you. How much your money will get you varies from place to place. Do you want to live as close to Miami as possible? Great. But you may only be able to afford the most basic marina. This is a marina with little to no added amenities, electricity and water may not even be included. Here are some things you might not have considered that you need, but that you might miss once you are without them.

Washing and drying facilities

If you are living on your boat, unless its a mega-yacht, chances are you don’t have a washer or dryer. This means having to rely on a laundromat. Which is fine, of course. But, when you consider you likely don’t have a car can become a real pain. You will need to do laundry at a minimum once or twice a week. Having to take a bus across town with all your dirty clothes is going to be tedious at best. That’s why choosing a marina with good washing and drying facilities is so important. It can save you a lot of headaches. And a lot of money, as the machines are typically free. They won’t be free in a laundromat, that’s for sure.

Being stuck on a boat is some people’s idea of heaven. But, it isn’t heaven for your body. People need to move around as much as possible. This is good for both mental and physical wellbeing. Having to go across town to find a decent gym is inconvenient, some marinas will have a gym and swimming pool included on the premises. This isn’t a necessity, just something that you might want to consider when choosing between two otherwise equal marinas.

Power and water hookups

Not all marinas come with power and water hookups. You will not only want but need access to both of these things if you plan to be there long term. If power and water are not included in your lease, you will need to discuss how much extra these will be. The cost of power especially can start to add up over the year. It is just something to consider when comparing multiple locations.

Not all marinas will come with wifi, those that do may not have particularly good wifi. But, bad wifi is better than no wifi. Of course, you can set up a connection yourself with a satellite router. But this isn’t always ideal. If you do manage to find a marina to provides wifi, even if it isn’t free, this should put it at the front of the running. If you are planning on working from your boat, doing so without wifi might not be ideal or even possible.

Having good security is important. If you are living aboard your boat that is likely where everything you own is. Boats are not the hardest to break in to. Someone who is determined could be in and out of your boat in 5 minutes with everything of value. That’s why choosing a marina that’s gated, has CCTV, and even has 24/7 security is not only ideal but advised.

The Best Liveaboard Marinas in Florida

Finding the best Marina for you will depend on a lot of things, many of them were touched on above. But for the most part, it is two things. Location and price. Just like when buying a house, location is everything. Here are some of the best liveaboard marinas in Florida sorted by location. Hopefully, at least one or more of them will be what you are looking for.

The marinas are listed first by location and then by the quality. The higher up the list the marina is the better it is, not the more expensive it is. Of course, it is up for you to decide which of the marinas is best for you. If you are looking for the most job prospects, the closer to Miami the better. Finding something in South Florida is far easier than finding something in the north. You will quickly notice that when it comes to the north, your options are very limited. North Central Florida for example only has the Sea Hag Marina, in Steinhatchee, in its entire segment. Whereas there are about 20 choices for the south. There is nothing wrong with choosing to live in the north, it just doesn’t afford as many opportunities as the south does.

North West Florida

• Bay Point Marina in Panama City Beach
• Panama City Marina in Panama City

North Central Florida

• Sea Hag Marina in Steinhatchee

North East Florida

• Fernandina Harbor Marina in Fernandina Beach
• Mandarin Holiday Marina in Jacksonville
• Ortega Villa Yacht Club Marina in Jacksonville

Central East Florida

• Eau Gallie Yacht Basin in Melbourne
• Fort Pierce City Marina in Fort Pierce
• Halifax Harbor Marina in Daytona Beach
• Harbortown Marina in Merrit Island
• Melbourne Harbor Marina in Melbourne
• New Smyrna City Marina in New Smyrna Beach
• Titusville Municipal Marina in Titusville
• Harbortown Marina in Fort Pierce
• Vero Beach Municipal Marina Vero Beach

Central Florida

• Astor Bridge Marina in Astor
• Green Cove Springs Marina in Green Cove Springs
• Monroe Harbour Marina in Sanford
• Sanford Boat Works and Marina in Sanford

Central West Florida

• Blind Pass Marina in Saint Pete Beach
• Gulfport Municipal Marina in Gulfport
• Harborage Marina in Saint Petersburg
• Longboat Key Club Moorings in Bradenton
• Pasadena Marina in Saint Petersburg
• Regatta Pointe Marina in Bradenton
• Riviera Dunes Marina in Palmetto
• Saint Petersburg Municipal Marina in Saint Pete
• Twin Dolphin Marina in Bradenton

South West Florida

• Burnt Store Marina in Punta Gorda
• Calusa Island Marina in Goodland
• Fort Myers City Yacht Basin in Fort Myers
• Legacy Harbour Marina in Fort Myers
• Marco Island Marina in Marco Island
• Marinatown Yacht Harbour in North Fort Myers
• Old Cover Marina in Naples
• Port of the Islands Marina in Naples
• Snook Bight Marina in Fort Myers Beach

South East Florida

• Boot Key Harbour City Marina in Marathon
• Dinner Key Marina in Coconut Grove Miami
• Hollywood Marina in Hollywood
• Harbour Town Marina in Dania
• Lauderdale Marine Center in Fort Lauderdale
• Marina Bay Resort in Fort Lauderdale
• Miami Beach Marina in Miami Beach
• Palm Harbour Marina in West Palm Beach
• Royale Palm Yacht Basin in Dania Beach

Hopefully, one of the above marinas has what you are looking for. A definitive answer for the best marina in Florida is very hard to answer. You could even argue that it is impossible. What is perfect for you might not be perfect for someone else. It depends so much on your budget and needs. If you are free to live wherever you choose because you work from home; then you are in luck. Some of the more northern marinas are a lot cheaper and far quieter. They offer a much more relaxed pace of life. Conversely, though, they don’t offer as many opportunities for work or play. There is more to do on South Beach than there is in the north. That’s for sure.

Remember, if water and power aren’t included in the lease you need to get an estimate before you choose a place. It may look cheaper but in the end, winds up being far more expensive when all the extra bills come in to play.

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Daniel Wade

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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What Life Might Look Like on the World’s Biggest Yacht

On a Tuesday morning in September, a six-foot-long plastic model of a boat sat on the second floor of the Explorers Club, looking a little like a beached Orca, sleek and out of place in the tweedy boardroom. The tiny yacht had traveled to East 70th Street from Los Angeles and, before that, made stops in Monaco and Zurich, Cannes, and West Palm Beach — a prop to entice buyers who can spend $10 million on a cabin in the world’s biggest yacht. If it gets made. The boat will be called the Ulyssia and it’s the passion project of Frank Binder, a billionaire from the Merck clan with a thing for boats (he once owned a shipyard in Monaco). Lenny Kravitz, his friend, is onboard to help design interiors. (“He’s a genius.”)

Binder has been doing a world tour to find other buyers — who might be hard to meet. Maintenance hovers around 3 percent a year, or $300,000 for that $10 million one-bedroom. It’s a big ask, especially for a boat that, if he does get recruits, won’t launch until 2028. To help, Binder brought on two former executives from the World , the luxury liner that was the first — and only — to prove rich people want to live … at sea, all year. (It launched in 2002, is still sold out, and has yet to snag on an iceberg or go bankrupt.)

Renato Chizzola , a senior vice-president for the Ulyssia who worked as the general manager of the World for five years, spoke to Curbed about the terrors of elephant seals and why he once hired Israeli snipers to come onboard.

This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity. 

What did your job on the World look like?? 

I was in charge of lifestyle, expedition, everything — even the kitchen. You have a captain who’s the master of the vessel, and he ultimately will have the last word on safety, security, where we go, where we can’t go. But then you also need to have somebody who has grown up in a galley carrying luggage. I’m 60 in October. When I was 27, I said, “Okay, how can I see the world without having money?” So in 1993, I was hired on the Queen Elizabeth II , then went to hotels, cruises, and in 46 years I traveled to 186 countries. I was allowed to live onboard and basically extend any service, any dream that a resident had.

What’s the difference between this superyacht and the World ? 

The World is now 23 years old. She was created in the late ’80s. She looks like a cruise ship. And the  Ulyssia is a yacht — the designer says this is his masterpiece.

We never had many amenities on the World . Here, we have a deli. We have a library with a card and games room. We have a table-tennis room. We have two paddle-tennis courts all inside, a multipurpose sports deck up there where the helicopters are, two hangers, two submarines to go down to the ocean, seven restaurants.

Then, we have this inflatable marina off the back of the boat. Imagine we’re near Bermuda. It’s a beautiful day. The sea is calm. We stop and we inflate this — it takes an hour — and we have tenders. You can go diving right there off the ship. The sea is yours. This marina is something the World could never ever have done, because there’s no space in the boat to keep that. The World was more elderly, a bit elderly retired. This is way younger. Why? Because we have so many amenities and offer adventure. Here, we are offering fewer apartments with more space. The balconies are huge. Luxury, for them, means space, time and getting whatever they wish, whenever, wherever. Freedom.

Freedom , in a contained location — 

Yes, and in a safe environment, completely protected against any danger. If a resident says, “I want to bring my family there, I want to be safe, I want to have no worries,” safety needs to be core to us. They want the freedom to do what they do at home — to run around with suits, jewelry. And if they are smart enough to say, “I want to go and see real scenarios, not luxury hotels,” they can go places where there’s no luxury and see how the world really works. That’s what this community wants.

Sounds like a security nightmare. 

We will hire ex-Mossad physically, to be on the ship. On the World , we partnered with Marine Guard, one of the world’s best safety and security companies . It provides technical and physical support. And whenever we went to critical places — for example, when we went through the Gulf of Aden, I brought in Israeli snipers to come on the boat. Nobody, no pirate on earth can come in past them. Then on shore excursions, we have every form of security that you can imagine. Satellite images. Images underwater, over water. When we went to Antarctica, to the Northwest Passage — meeting with the Inuits, the Aborigines — you need people who know them. You need people who safeguard you. In the Antarctic, you are only allowed to go with Zodiacs to the beaches. You need people who know that, who know the sea lions, the penguins. We bring them onboard — 20 or 25 people who know everything about every area. And when we do expeditions, we bring on EYOS, one of the greatest expedition leaders in the world, which goes to places like the Titanic .

Is this, like the Titanic , experimental in any way?

No, there are similar yachts. But in four years, when she will hopefully leave port, she will be the greenest yacht of this size ever built. And at that time, we may build for whatever is available in terms of fuel, whether it’s methanol or nuclear. There are vessels already going nuclear, military vessels.

But isn’t this all risky? 

It’s the opposite. You will see more and more environments like this at sea. Why? Because you can escape anything! If there’s an outbreak in New York, a big virus, you just won’t go there. If there’s a war there, you just don’t go there. If there’s a storm, you don’t go there.

So this will be a way for the global elite, basically, to pay to avoid any problem.

Is it going to be a one percent community? Yes, obviously, but they need to do good around the world, otherwise they cannot come to the community.

Imagine the following. We will have a medical center onboard. We have MRI machines. We have a dentistry. Our doctors, when we go to the west coast of Africa, to Senegal, we can have our doctors go out and help. And as we go around the world, we will help to map the ocean floor. We’ll have tools available to measure and send these to oceanic institutions that then take this data. So we are helping to make the world a better place. And that’s the legacy.

How are you going to gauge whether the people who want to live here also want to do good? 

There’s a very tough background check before being allowed to buy. So can it be that a Colombian drug lord or a Russian weapons dealer comes and says, “Oh, I’m going to take ten?” No, that can’t happen. We’re not a community for people from mainland China who don’t speak English and want to spit around. Or aggressive Russians. We are not a community for sheikhs from any Arab countries. And I have nothing against the Chinese and Russians. I love everybody. I’ve been everywhere. But they just don’t fit here, and they won’t come. We want like-minded golf players, tennis players, joggers, bikers, F1 drivers.

We will have roughly 30 to 35 percent Europeans, 30 to 35 percent North Americans, including from Canada, possibly a few from Mexico City, a few from São Paulo. Then we have about 20 percent from Australia, South Africa, Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan. Then we expect to have about 10 percent of people from all over, we don’t know where. It could be anywhere.

They’ll need a certain amount of money to get into this boat and I assume, therefore, that you can’t be that picky. 

No, we can’t. But we try to be. It’s a balance. We meet them three, four, five, six times. We invite them, show them something, then they say, “Oh, I trust these people. I believe in them.” It’s a slow process.

Can a buyer get kicked off?

Oh, absolutely.

What’s the justice system?

There’s a board that’s voted in and we have our chairman on the board. Almost all of the members are people who have either been on yachts, have their own yacht, or have led organizations.

If people have their own yachts, why would they sign up for this? 

They might have a beautiful yacht of a hundred meters, but they can’t hire all these education guides, explorers all the time. We have 22 guest suites. Imagine we’re coming to Japan. Blossom season. We bring an ex Japanese prime minister onboard, maybe a three-star Michelin chef. We bring them on, let’s say, three weeks before. And they lecture. We can have experts speak about anything. Volcanoes, health and wellness, food and beverage, politics, archeology.

And they have you, who’s been to 186 countries. 

Exactly. So when I do speak to people who want to buy and invite them for lunch or a coffee, they listen because they know, Oh, this guy has been there. You don’t need to tell them something that you think can happen. You can actually tell them a story. When I went to Antarctica the last time, in 2009, on the way back to the Zodiac, I am walking and these big elephant seals — those are the big guys, like three tons and ten feet long — and all of a sudden, out of nowhere, there’s a big sound like MWUGHOWUGH and a big one came up, out of the sand. I stood there frozen. These are moments when you think, Is this really happening to me? How fortunate, how lucky am I to be able to experience moments like this? And all the wealthy people say the same.

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St Pete Yacht Rental

Yacht rentals st. pete | best yacht charters in st. petersburg, florida, thank you for making anchor the #1 yacht rental company in st. pete, st. pete yacht rentals .

Welcome to St. Petersburg, FL, one of the fastest-growing cities in Florida! Anchor has a beautiful fleet of yachts available for rent or charter in the greater St. Pete area. St. Pete is the perfect yacht charter destination, with intracoastal waterways to view mansions, sandbars for swimming and water activities, and a large selection of yacht charters to choose from. Whether you're celebrating a bachelor or bachelorette party, birthday, or just hangin' with your crew, Anchor is the top-rated yacht rental company in St. Pete!

Day Charters

St. Pete has plenty to offer for a perfect yacht charter. We offer 4 hour rentals, 6 hour rentals, and full-day rentals. We also offer multi-day trips if you want to visit destinations like Fort Myers , Cape Coral , South Seas, Marco Island, and Florida Keys. Day charters are an affordable way for you and your crew to rent a private yacht with Captain and Crew included. Also included in the price of your charter is local cruising fuel, cleaning fees, service fees & taxes, and even some gratuity on most charter listings. Most of our yachts have a 13 guest max, not including the Captain and Crew. So grab 12 of your best friends and head out for a St. Petersburg yacht charter with Anchor!

Find the perfect yacht rental in St. Pete

Anchor has hundreds of yachts available for rent with a Captain. You can shop and browse yachts and filter by date, location (using the map), size, budget, and much more. Book a yacht with confidence with our transparent and all-inclusive pricing. Never worry about hidden fees or additional costs, unless you want to add provisions to your charter. Finding the perfect yacht charter in St. Pete is super easy with Anchor. If you're interested in a St. Pete Boat Rental instead check out this page to view our available inventory!

Yacht rentals and yacht charters to Egmont Key

Egmont Key is a popular yachting destination with beautifully clear / turquoise water. Egmont Key is located just North of St. Petersburg and just north of Anna Maria Island , so if your yacht is departing from downtown St. Pete, you'll want to book a minimum of a 6 hour charter, or save money with the discounted full-day (8 hour) yacht charter options. 

Yacht rentals and yacht charters to Johns Pass Sandbar

Johns Pass is located a bit further south and is a great local meet up location for yachters. If you've chartered a yacht from downtown St. Pete, you\'ll want to be sure to book a 6 hour rental or 8 hour rental to ensure you have enough time to get there. Johns Pass is a really fun local sandbar where yachters party 7 days a week. Mostly on Saturdays and Sundays.

Looking For Something Smaller?

View our st pete boat rental selection here. We offer amazing charters in great areas around St Pete. Book very quickly and easily to enjoy a great day on the water!

Looking For a Pontoon?

View our tampa pontoon rental selection here. We offer amazing charters in great areas all over Tampa. Book very quick and easy and enjoy a great day on the water!

Weather in St. Pete

Always keep in mind the weather when planning your yacht rental experience. St. Petersburg is an ideal location for a yacht charter, either while on vacation or “staycation” because of the wonderful weather patterns. Located just above the tropical divide, the winters range in the 70°s and summers in the 90°s, so there's no wrong time to visit. While it may rain frequently in St. Pete, the storms are almost always scattered and very short in duration, oftentimes only lasting a few minutes and then the sun is shining again. If you're traveling to St. Pete in the cooler months of the year, be sure to pack some layers to wear while on your yachting trip, especially if you plan to go yachting in the evening. If you're traveling during the summer months, remember to stay hydrated and take some extra precautions when it comes to sun care.

When planning to rent a yacht in St. Pete, your Captain will keep an eye on the weather patterns. The Captain will warn you of any weather that could cause your yacht charter to be canceled, rescheduled, or departure time pushed back. Safety is always our top priority.

Other popular yacht charter destinations near St. Petersburg

St. Pete is located on the west coast of Florida and is nestled near several other wonderful yachting destinations, so if you can't find the yacht charter you're looking for in St. Pete, check out these other amazing locations. Anna Maria Island and Sarasota, Fl are the nearest yachting destinations. Tampa Bay has yachts available just 30 minutes from St. Pete.   Ft. Myers and Cape Coral are about an 2 hour drive south and located below the tropical divide for warmer weather in the winter months.

How much does it cost to rent a yacht in St Pete?

The average cost to rent a yacht in st. pete is $2200.00 (usd).

Average cost of a 4 hour yacht rental = $2200.00*

Average cost of a 6 hour yacht rental = $2900.00*

Average cost of a 8 yacht rental = $3300.00*

*The average cost of a yacht charter or yacht rental can differ based on the size of the yacht and the year the yacht was manufactured. Newer yachts are more expensive, but they are cleaner and offer nicer amenities. And bigger yachts are typically more expensive, but they offer often more space, amenities, crew, and overall experience. 

Anchor Yacht Rentals - St. Petersburg, FL

260 1st Ave S Suite 200-183 St. Petersburg, FL 33701

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The Ultimate Getaway

Relax on one of our beautifully appointed luxury yachts

for a true escape into paradise.

Ultimate YachtLife Charters is a premier boat rental and yacht charter experience in the Tampa Bay Area.

Welcome aboard! We offer many luxury charters, including birthday yacht parties, yacht weddings, as well as accommodations to suit your needs. Equipped to provide the smoothest cruising, undisturbed vacation, and breathtaking sunsets from St. Petersburg, our charters are uniquely crafted for all of our guests.

The Ultimate Vessels

Our 70 and 80 foot yachts offer the freedom and privacy you need to enjoy your next adventure or getaway. Defined by highly detailed, hand-crafted furniture and upholstery, her interior finishes play with texture and light. Princess yachts have long been recognized as some of the finest-quality luxury yachts in the world, due to their fine craftsmanship, custom design, woodwork, reliability, and safety.

Indulge Your Desires Within Our Lavish Accommodations

With three levels of entertainment, you can bask in the sun from our spacious bow, entertain in privacy in our luxurious cabin with aft deck, or enjoy fresh air and a commanding view from the flybridge. Sleeping accommodations are available within our 4 staterooms for up to 8 guests with 3 bathrooms and an abundance of storage for your belongings.

Become immersed by the comfort and premium accommodations of the only Princess Yacht in the Bay Area for your next boat rental or yacht charter adventure with us.

Your Next Adventure Awaits

From peaceful sunset cruises with your loved ones, to the ultimate dance party for your next birthday, we offer various charters to accommodate your needs. First-time boaters or yacht enthusiasts are welcome!

We offer boat rentals to guests In Tampa, St. Petersburg, Orlando, Sarasota, and Surrounding Areas

We have entertained guests who are Bay Area natives, as well as visitors from international waters who wish to embark on their next journey with the utmost class. No request is too large! Customer service is our #1 priority. When you book your next luxury boat rental with us – either online or by phone – you can rest assured that your stay with us will meet the highest standard of care and professionalism.

Ultimate YachtLife Charters takes great pride in being a locally-owned yacht charter company in the Tampa Bay Area. We are eager to partner with local businesses and vendors who wish to elevate the experience of our guests by creating an exceptional itinerary of custom events! Book your next St. Pete boat rental service or yacht charter with us and create new memories in absolute luxury.

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Ready to escape with ultimate yacht life.

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1 room apartment 46 m² Saint Petersburg, Russia

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