living on a self sufficient sailboat

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The Ultimate Bug Out Boat: Living on a Self-Sufficient Sailboat for 10 Years

While I doubt I could willfully live for months or years on a boat like these folks did, I think the idea of a self-sustainable watercraft is an amazing idea for preparedness, and this boat clearly takes the idea of bugging out to a whole other level! Just think how awesome it would be to bug out to the ocean and avoid nearly everyone, especially when the SHTF?

In any case, their setup is really neat. They have communications (including satellite broadband internet), 1000-liter water storage and desalination equipment, hot water, freezers for food, solar and wind power (enough to power everything onboard), a nice kitchen and laundry setup, and more storage space then I would have guessed. Of course, if you’re not a very tidy or organized person then this probably isn’t going to work out for you.

A major drawback is all of the ongoing maintenance the boat seems to require. It’s not just an expense but a real problem if this were to be your main bug out option. Regardless, watch this and get ready to be jealous…

Damian Brindle

My latest book, The Survival Blueprint: How to Prepare Your Family for Disaster, can be found here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJ49Y5X4

3 responses to “The Ultimate Bug Out Boat: Living on a Self-Sufficient Sailboat for 10 Years”

I have been a sailboat sailor for over 50 years But have owned a number of power boats as well so i think i am marginally qualified to comment. First regardless of fresh or salt water sail is the only reasonable way to go….unless you are just using a boat to get to a destination . Fuel rots and it will be scarce in a shtf situation…..The wind is free Size is the killer because of everything you need to carry . wind and solar generators and even some towable h20 gen are a must. Potable water is a top piority . hvital uge water tanks plus a means to replace water are vital. Water makers are great, but eventually need replacement parts Rain catchers as primary of auxillary means are a good idea …. Cooking is a real mind bender other than solar ….everything needs renewable fuel sources needs a lot of thought (which I have not done at this time…Knee jerk electric of some sort off wind/water gens ????? boat gear (and repair supplies ) should speak for itself…BUT it is worth mentioning the you will probably spend the majority of your time at anchor and you will need at least one anchor that is as big as to can get back up….preferably on chain rhode …

All three articles were quite interesting, especially the sailboat. I think that is the way to go. Providing you are completely prepared, of course. It sounds like they did everything correctly. I’d like to do it but I’d need an unsinkable ship. Not like the Titanic.

My neighbor and I each have land bound live aboard boats. My small fiberglass sailboat sleeps four [ugh!] His powerboat sleeps more. Each has electrical systems tied in to the grid, but they aslso have inverters and can use microwaves for cooking. The sinks are stainless, each will accommodate a water supply and sewage. Two hundred yards away is Lake Superior, thousands of fish.

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Living on a Self-Sufficient Sailboat for 10 Years + FULL TOUR

Brian and Karin Trautman have been living on a sailboat for 10 years, and their boat is set up so they can be off the grid in remote places for months at a time with solar and wind power providing electricity, a water maker that turns saltwater into freshwater, multiple freezers and loads of storage space for food, and even a small washing machine on board!

They’ve sailed SV Delos – a 53′ sloop rig ketch – 83,000 nautical miles which are the equivalent of circling the earth at the equator more than 3 times.  Their latest adventures include sailing as a family with their 6-month baby, Sierra, and outfitting the boat with a heater so they can explore the Arctic this summer after several years in the Tropics.

If you want to follow SV Delos and support their amazing vlog-style documentary project about the liveaboard lifestyle, view their pages here:

https://www.youtube.com/svdelos

https://www.instagram.com/svdelos/

https://www.patreon.com/svdelos

Sailing Vessel Delos – Sailing Around The World – YouTube Sailing Videos

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Living Off-Grid on a Sailing Catamaran

Have you ever wondered what it may be like to live off-grid or on a boat? Living on a sailboat can certainly have its ups and downs, but it is also an incredible experience. In this blog, we will provide some resources you may want to know about in order to survive and remain self-sufficient when living aboard. We’ve been living off-grid for the past SIX years, and we’d like to share what we’ve learned thus far! 

What does it mean to be living off-grid or fully self-sufficient?

Living on a boat takes extra planning and long-term thinking. First, you need to get your basic survival set up in place. The main three things in basic survival are: shelter, food and water. Our boat and bimini top serve as our shelter from the cold, sun and rain, and we use a watermaker to get clean drinking water (in conjunction with our rain water catchment). We will talk about food more below. Before you commit to living on a boat, know that the lifestyle does come with more responsibility than life on land. You also want to make sure you are as comfortable as possible to get the best experience from your time on the water. So, what does that look like for us?

Electricity is a Luxury

You don’t need electricity to survive, but we highly recommend having it! Our entire electrical system onboard is provided by our battery bank. It powers pretty much everything on our boat unless we are using the generator we have.  

There are two ways our energy goes into this battery that then leaves and transfers to all our our appliances: 

• Through our boat engine’s alternator 
• The sun! Captured by our solar panels and controlled by charge controllers. We have some Renogy flexible panels https://amzn.to/2Xr1lo4 that we control using Victron MPPT charge controllers https://amzn.to/33sybJ2

Most of our systems are 12 volt DC, but sometimes we need AC 120 voltage to charge computers, camera equipment, etc. Basically, that means the energy from the battery has to go through an inverter to turn it into 120 volts AC and then to our AC appliances. In order to do that, we invested in an inverter from Amazon https://amzn.to/2PrPx0E. You should also note that everything nowadays is USB, so you might as well have a USB port you can plug your equipment and/or appliances into like these that we mounted all around the boat https://amzn.to/30uBkWU

Storing Food and Keeping it Fresh

Off-grid living also means sourcing your own food. We try to catch everything ourselves, and in order to keep it edible for as long as possible we store it in our freezer. We have used the Engel Freezer for about three years now and are super impressed. It is a 12 volt freezer and allows us to keep fish, meat, and vegetables fresh for an extended amount of time. In our fridge/freezer, we store most of our food in reusable silicone bags in order to prevent smelly trash and pile up and to reduce our use of single us plastic.

Catching and Making Clean Water While Living Off-Grid

If you are going to be living off-grid and be fully self sufficient, something you absolutely need is… water! We are able to make our own water with our Rainman Watermaker using our generator. We make about 35 gallons per hour with this watermaker and top off our 80 gallon storage capacity in just over 2 hours.

In addition to our watermaker, we have a rain catchment system. When rain falls on our hard bimini, we have jugs we can fill up and a tube system that runs straight ton our water tank fill. We use the water for drinking, but we also use it for laundry and washing. 

Diesel Fuel and Propane System

Even though we do have sails, we do need to use our diesel engines once in a while to get in and out of port. We have a x2 26 gallon diesel tanks and an extra 5 gallon jug. We tope off these tanks every two months or so.

In order to cook our food, we have a propane system. It works great because it lasts a long time before you have to fill it again. One tank will last us a year of cooking on the stove and in the oven. We have a stainless steel Magma grill that we also enjoy using on the boat and runs on propane.

Conservation Tips

We try to conserve as much energy as possible when on the water and two ways we have done that is by replacing conventional light bulbs with LED bulbs and installing a low pressure water pump that is only activated when we are using the water. By taking steps to reduce our energy consumption we make it easier to live off the grid for a much longer period of time.

We hope you enjoyed this overview of systems that have helped us to be self-sufficient the past 6 years! All the products we mentioned can be found on the Tula’s Endless Summer Amazon Storefront.

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One comment on “ living off-grid on a sailing catamaran ”.

Love all of your blogs guys. Just wanted to point out the recent article below to you though – regarding drinking rain water.

‘This new study, which looks at four specific chemicals in the class, suggests that levels of one PFAS in rainwater around the globe often “greatly exceed” US drinking water advisory levels.’

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-62391069

Stay safe and keep sailing!

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Living on a Self-Sufficient Sailboat for 10 Years. VIDEO

Brian and Karin Trautman have been living on a self-sufficient sailboat for 10 years, and their boat is set up so they can be off the grid in remote places for months at a time with solar and wind power providing electricity, a water maker that turns salt water into freshwater, multiple freezers and loads of storage space for food, and even a small washing machine on board!

Video: living on a self-sufficient sailboat for 10 years

They’ve sailed SV Delos – a 53′ sloop rig ketch – 83,000 nautical miles which is the equivalent of circling the earth at the equator more than 3 times. Their latest adventures include sailing as a family with their 6-month baby, Sierra, and outfitting the boat with a heater so they can explore the Arctic this summer after several years in the Tropics.

Delos is a 53 foot Amel Super Maramu and she is one of the finest built cruising sailboats in the world! She was built in La Rochelle France in 2000 and has seen what most sailboats dream of seeing.

Why the name “Delos?”

The name Delos may sound familiar; it is a mythical island off the coast of Greece. The story began long long ago when Zeus, god of the sky, cheated on his wife with a human. Even more disastrous – he got her pregnant. When the half-god-half-human twins were born, Zeus’ wife banned them from being born on any land. Poseidon, god of the sea, took pity and raised a small piece of land from his underwater kingdom for the twins. The island of Delos was a floating oasis for the half God, half-human offspring, and is now our floating oasis.

What makes this world cruising sailboat so special?

She’s a sailing ketch (2 masts) and has enough room to comfortably sleep 6 people. Delos is able to turn salt water into freshwater, sun into energy, provide food and shelter, travel for months on end without visiting a dock, and best of all, be the place we call home.

If you want to follow SV Delos, and support their amazing vlog-style documentary project about the liveaboard lifestyle, we’ve included links to all their pages here: https://www.youtube.com/svdelos https://www.instagram.com/svdelos/ https://www.patreon.com/svdelos https://svdelos.com/

Video courtesy “Exploring Alternatives”. Follow the channel !

1936. Voyage around Cape Horn by schooner Wanderbird

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Growing food on your yacht: Everything you need to know to become self-sufficient

• November 16, 2020

Self-sufficiency is a goal of many liveaboard cruisers who sail the world’s oceans, generating their own water and power, writes Erin Carey

With limited space and the obvious challenges of salt, wind and motion, many would never entertain the idea of growing their own produce. Yet it can be possible: we spoke to cruisers who are successful gardeners to learn more about the possibilities of growing fresh herbs and vegetables on a yacht.

Scurvy, the illness that historically dogged seafarers, is caused by a lack of Vitamin C, traditionally associated with long passages at sea without fruit or veg. Thankfully scurvy is not something most sailors need to worry about these days, however, fresh greens still only last a few days in most boat refrigerators, often suffering bruising from the movement.

But with a garden on board, no matter how small, pasta with fresh basil or a crunchy salad is no longer limited to shore bought provisions. Many herbs are also known to have health benefits, being rich in vitamins and anti-inflammatory properties.

Rick Moore grows aloe vera, herbs and veg aboard Sophisticated Lady

With plans to sail across the Pacific Ocean , long-time cruiser Rick Moore, and his first mate Maddie, a chef, decided that an onboard garden was a necessity for their Jeanneau 52 Sophisticated Lady .

“Recent times have highlighted the importance of self-sufficiency on a yacht, not only in terms of power and water but in every form: energy, food and health,” explains Rick. “The choice to start constructing a small organic vegetable garden seemed, to us, the most sensible decision for our boat.”

Get started

Growing a garden on a boat does require some planning and dedication, with challenges that are unique to life afloat. “In the initial stages, the seedlings have to be protected as much as possible from seawater. For that reason, we try to grow shade-loving plants like aloe, oregano, chives, tomatoes, chillies and mint, under the dodger, where they’ll be protected from the elements, sea spray and have less sun exposure”, explains Moore.

Article continues below…

How the crew of SV Delos created the ultimate self-sustainable yacht

When Brian Trautman bought a 53ft Amel Super Maramu in 2008 he had little intention of living aboard for ten…

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Bluewater sailing stories usually start with someone who has been around boats all their life. But not this one. A…

Your location will also determine what will thrive and what will perish, and this requires a bit of trial and error. Sending a few plants to their watery grave, especially in the early days, will be common. Living on a boat requires patience, and gardening on a boat is no different; it takes time. However, according to Moore, your dedication will see you reap the rewards after a few short months.

He recommends starting with cheap seedlings from the local market or seeds from the supermarket. “They’re cheap and perfect to start experimenting. You can even grow the seeds in the trays that meat comes in, and transplant them once they have sprouted,” he added.

“By using rectangular pots with a low centre of gravity and less soil than you would usually, it will make the pot less likely to topple over and create less of a mess if it does. Also consider choosing plants that are happy to share a pot, such as thyme, oregano and rosemary, which all prefer very well-drained soil, or mint, coriander and lemon balm, which prefer more moisture. This way you will maximise your space and increase variety.”

Adding home grown herbs to lunch on Sophisticated Lady

Long rectangle planter boxes are often ideal, especially if fitted neatly under the dodger. While some plants need well-drained soil, Moore tends to use pots that don’t have holes in the bottom of them, or fills them with disposable fibre, simply because saucers of muddy water on a moving boat are not something you want to deal with.

If your plants do take on sea spray, rinsing with a freshwater spray bottle can help rejuvenate them after a long passage. It’s also important to train your plants, which means clipping them to encourage a lower but wider growth pattern. Tall, top-heavy plants will be less likely to remain upright.

Of course, the biggest difficulties arise when you decide to go sailing, especially if living on a monohull at a 45° angle. “One solution we’ve found is to wrap the pots in aluminium foil, leaving only the plants exposed. This not only contains the soil, but it also contains moisture and prevents the soil from drying out,” said Moore.

Hanging growing pots – these are repurposed drinking water bottles – won’t fall over when the yacht heels. Photo: Clearwater Sally

“Another option is to store the pots in wooden crates that can be stored somewhere secure down below. When you’ve encountered an unexpected squall or rough seas, the last thing you need to be dealing with is a soil covered saloon,” he added. Other solutions to secure your plants while underway include bungee cords, blu-tac, or heavy-duty Velcro, depending on the size of the pot.

Fed and watered

All of Rick and Maddie’s plants are fertilised with homemade compost, created with the organic waste from food scraps such as vegetable peelings, coffee and tea remnants, eggshells and prunings. They also treat their garden with natural insecticides, so as not to contaminate their foods with chemicals.

The irrigation system is provided directly from seawater, desalinated on board. While watermaker water is generally fine to use, it is recommended that you test with a small pH kit (similar to that used to test swimming pools) to ensure the right acidity for your plants. That may mean adding a small dose of white vinegar to balance the acidity. Another option is to collect rainwater, which is often easy enough to do by capturing the runoff from areas such as the bimini and solar panels.

Hydroponic gardening aboard Chasing Eden proved fast and productive

If you’re in a remote area and buying soil from the supermarket is not an option, you can often ask locals for some rich soil from their gardens. Most people will be happy to oblige, but remember that you do not want to introduce a population of new critters to your boat. If feasible, one solution is to freeze the soil for a few days to kill off any bugs.

Gardening on a boat can be an enjoyable hobby that is challenging yet rewarding. According to Moore, the simplest and fastest plants to grow were basil, oregano and chilli peppers. But he also grows a number of flowering shrubs and tropical plants, as well as aloe vera, which can be used to treat sunburn and insect bites.

“I get a lot of enjoyment from my plants, so much so that I often give them names. They add a sense of calm to our home, are aesthetically pleasing and cleanse the air. They also give me a sense of purpose, and after they have travelled with me for many years, I feel like they become part of the family.”

Hydroponics

Kyle Brereton and Hayley Cook live on an Australian-built catamaran called Chasing Eden . Besides growing succulents and tropical evergreens on board, they have set up a hydroponics garden under the davits of their boat.

“What led us to the hydro system was that it was lightweight, clean, and yields a much quicker crop. For life on a boat, everything needs to be very adaptable and productive,” explains Brereton. “We initially tried our veggie patch in soil, but we ended up with tiny, shrivelled little plants which had taken up all of our aft deck space.”

The couple experimented with a hydroponics system and found it was easy to deliver the adequate nutrients straight to the plant, enabling them to grow healthy and strong much faster.

Photo: Chasing Eden

One issue was pollination. “We soon realised that there weren’t too many bees keen to visit our boat in the middle of the ocean,” Cook recalls. Gardening websites have tips on how to self-pollinate your plants using a small brush.

Sally McAdam of Clearwater Cruising also has a hydroponics system on her boat. “We’re using hydroponic nutrients to grow basil, kale, Chinese cabbage, chives and amaranth. This came about because it was very difficult to find good growing soil for pots (in our case coconuts) on sand atolls and in island communities.

“We’ve made hanging gardens out of plastic bottles that gimbal with our movements. They hang from the davits, but in big seas we take them down below.”

About the author

Erin Carey and her family cruised the Caribbean for two years before sailing across the Atlantic aboard their Moody 47 Roam . Erin now runs Roam Generation PR working with sailors and adventurers.

First published in the November 2020 issue of Yachting World

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Living On A Sailing Boat – 20 Things You Must Know

Living on a sailing boat offers incredible freedom, simplicity, and a deep connection with nature but…

Living on a sailing boat also presents unique challenges – both practical and psychological – that require preparation and adaptation. Here are 20 things you must know to thrive as a full-time liveaboard sailor:

1. You’ll need to become self-sufficient. Collect your own water, dispose of waste, and procure all food/supplies yourself. That requires planning and discipline.

2. Maintenance will take time. Systems breakdowns are common and regular upkeep is vital to avoid small issues becoming larger issues. Become a problem detective when walking around your sailing boat.

3. Budget carefully for living costs and unexpected boat repairs. Try to save extra because boats typically lose value over time.

4. Prepare for motion sickness and balance issues. The constant movement takes some getting used to, especially in rougher conditions.

5. Monitor humidity and air quality. Mold growth is common in warmer locations so proper cleaning and good flow through ventilation are needed to combat the excess moisture.

6. Fresh produce will be limited. Plan your diet around non-perishables, frozen and canned goods. When fresh vegetables are available stock up but be aware of their lifespan for retaining freshness.

7. Social interaction may decrease. Many full-time liveaboards miss the easy access to family, friends, and amenities ashore. However, there can be many opportunities to make new friends.

8. Weather dictates your schedule. You’ll need to alter plans based on conditions outside of your control. The only weather you control is whether you stay or whether you go… and a deadline or schedule is your enemy.

9. Stay in shape for the physical demands. Living aboard requires regular heavy lifting, climbing, bending, and crouching.

10. Carefully review possible marina choices. Some are restrictive to long-term sailors living on a sailing boat and marina costs can add up quickly.

11. Prepare for storms and hurricanes. Proper strategies are critical in some regions to safely ride out severe weather. Seek advice from other experienced cruisers.

12. Invest in proper safety gear and extra equipment even if it becomes redundant. Backups for navigation, bilge pumps, and essentials can save your boat in a crisis.

13. Make an emergency fund. You’ll want coverage for medical needs, boat repairs and possibly replacing your belongings.

14. Noise and motion disrupt sleep. Noise-canceling headphones, earplugs, and medications may help you adjust but being aware of strange noises is also very important.       

15. Clean frequently to combat dirt buildup. Living in an enclosed space requires regular thorough cleaning to keep your environment fresh and free of unwanted pests.

16. Customize storage for efficiency. Well-organized, smaller spaces require maximizing every inch of storage creatively to get the best result.

17. Select the right boat for ‘living on a sailing boat’ and consider your needs. Contemplate a spacious layout, power /comfort needs, and upgrade potential. If you plan to do bluewater sailing your boat must be seaworthy and fit for the conditions.

18. Maintain electronic devices and schedule time offline. Electronics tend to drain your batteries quickly and require extra care in marine environments.

19. Mental health needs to be monitored. Isolation, lack of structure and loss of identity can pose risks for some liveaboards.

20. Embrace the adventure and the simplicity. Focus on the benefits of living on a sailing boat like freedom, the joy found at sea, and the deep connections made with fellow sailors.                   

The Allure Of Living On A Sailing Boat

While living on a sailing boat presents unique challenges, the rewards prove powerfully alluring for many people. Beyond satisfying wanderlust and potentially relieving the financial burdens of big city life, something deeper draws these sailors into a life that trades routines for rewards found only offshore.

Some speak of a spiritual connection forged in the intimacy of the vast blue water, where one’s existence feels gently suspended between sky and sea. Others describe surrendering fully to nature’s rhythms, awakening each day bathed in the restorative balm of salty breezes, lulling swells, and endless vistas free of the hustle and bustle of our modern world.

More still speak of newfound clarity arising from life’s simplification where duties become pleasures.  Thoughts are focused on the essentials of life: food, water, shelter… and chores become secondary to their importance.

Comfort might diminish at times but a sense of presence deepens as each chore becomes meditation, each sunset a ritual. Peace and harmony spread through living by natural law… often relinquished ashore.

And many voyagers talk about how solitude does not spark anxiety but inspires reflections so rare on land… thoughts flow undistracted just like the waves. Adventurers rediscover who they most long to become… free of expectations, schedules and roles no longer aligned in the quiet of isolation. Purpose arises from within each person… as steady as the trade winds that carry them onward to each new dawning.

This might all sound very philosophical and perhaps a tad unreal but you have to experience it to truly appreciate it. Being out of sight of land and other vessels for many days brings a new perspective to your life… guaranteed.

So while challenges come with offshore living, rewards permeate one’s being over time. Simplicity becomes soulfulness, drudgery an invitation to presence. Illusions dissolve yet wonder increases… with each nautical mile becoming a milepost marking an unravelling of complexity and an awakening of utter clarity.

The call to endless cruising runs deep for bluewater souls who’ve glimpsed the boundless life while sailing free. All else becomes peripheral as only the bare essentials are all one requires to find oneself, and stay forever found, under open skies born anew each as each day breaks.

Fair winds and following seas indeed await all who dare cast off lines and take the wheel of their destiny, setting course for the life uniquely theirs alone offshore, where enchantment awaits in each new dawning’s light.

In case I’ve given you too many ‘new wakening perspectives, let me wrap up more pragmatically now with…

Overall, living on a sailing boat comes with challenges that necessitate preparation, adaptation, and a willingness to trade comforts for freedom.

But for those seeking less conventional lifestyles, the rewards – in terms of simplicity, nature, and sheer adventure – can absolutely outweigh the trade-offs of living on a sailing boat. Preparation and good planning can make living on a sailing boat a dream of a life.

Fair Winds and Following Seas, Claire Bailey

Switched on Sailing

PO Box 161 Shellharbour City Centre NSW 2529 Australia

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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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How To Live on a Sailboat

Living on a sailboat can be a rewarding experience, especially if you come prepared and make strategic lifestyle adjustments.

Living on a sailboat is possible if you find the right boat, stay organized, manage maintenance and utilities effectively, make an income, and choose a suitable marina. Anyone who follows these steps can live a frugal and comfortable life on a sailboat.

In this article, we’ll cover all the major points and lifestyle adjustments necessary to live a clean and comfortable life on a sailboat. Additionally, we’ll cover some of the benefits and go over the technical steps you’ll need to take to keep your boat in good shape.

We sourced this information from experienced liveaboards and included the lessons they learned from living on a boat.

Table of contents

‍ Decide if the Liveaboard Life is Right for You

Living aboard a sailboat can be a rewarding and life-changing experience. Many live aboard for adventure, and others choose to live a more laid-back lifestyle and reduce their living expenses. Regardless of your reasoning, it’s important to consider the realities of living aboard and the sacrifices you’ll have to make.

Living aboard requires careful attention to maintenance, good organization, and an actual desire to live the lifestyle. You can successfully live on a sailboat without experience if you’re willing to make some changes to your lifestyle, reduce the amount of stuff you own, and stay on top of maintenance.

Is Living Aboard Common?

Yes, many people live aboard sailboats. It’s legal in most places, and there’s a relatively large online community dedicated to the practice. The majority of people who live on sailboats do it because they love sailing and the lifestyle.

Liveaboard Sailboat Utilities

Like a house, your sailboat needs utilities if you plan to live aboard. These systems have been well-integrated over the years, so it’s pretty easy to get power, water, and fuel for living aboard. Here’s how utilities work on a liveaboard sailboat.

Power, Water, and Sewage

When living in a house or apartment, the only time you really have to think about power, water, and sewage is when the bill is due—or when it stops working. On a sailboat, these things aren’t so hands-free.

Boats store water and sewage in tanks. Usually, a sailboat has a freshwater tank (for drinking) and a greywater/black water tank (for sewage). Eventually, these tanks will be full and need to be dumped, but you don’t have to rely on your freshwater tank when living aboard.

Most liveaboards hook their sailboats up to shore power using a special marine extension cord and a dock outlet. Water is connected this way as well, and some marinas offer sewage hookups at each dock.

However, you’ll probably have to pump out your septic tank at a separate location every so often. Plus, marinas charge for power and water.

Saving Water and Power on a Sailboat

Conservation is key to a convenient and clean life on a sailboat. You may have unlimited fresh water from a shore connection, but your septic tank will eventually get full. This may necessitate taking shorter showers and other water-saving steps, which are good habits to develop anywhere.

Additionally, your sailboat’s electrical system is designed to operate with or without shore power. This makes it relatively easy to install solar panels or a wind turbine, which (with a battery bank) can completely eliminate your dependence on shore power.

Liquid Fuel

Sailboats usually don’t have electric or gas appliances. Instead, sailboat stoves and heaters usually run on liquid fuel such as kerosene, alcohol, or diesel. Unlike a house, you’ll need to haul in fuel and use it safely and conservatively.

Alcohol stoves are the cleanest, but diesel heaters are the most common. These systems must ventilate correctly and be free of leaks, and you have to clean them once or twice per season to ensure safe and efficient operation.

Liquid Fuel Alternatives

Liquid fuel can be messy, smelly, and dangerous if used or stored improperly. Most sailors don’t like having a diesel tank in their living room (understandably so), so they use practical alternatives.

For heating, you can use an electric heater when connected to shore power, provided your wiring is safe enough. Figure out what gauge of wiring your 110-volt system uses, and hire an electrician to retrofit it if the wiring is too thin.

Another alternative is propane, which is cheap and cleaner than diesel or kerosene. Propane stoves used for camping fit on top of liquid-fuel stoves, and they’re a great choice for cooking when in the dock. Additionally, portable indoor propane heaters can be used, provided you have adequate ventilation.

CO Detection

Always install at least one carbon monoxide (CO) detector in your boat, regardless of what kind of fuel you use inside. A sailboat cabin is essentially a ziplock bag and the perfect environment for carbon monoxide to settle.

Install the meter near the floor, as carbon monoxide tends to sink. Additionally, an extra meter in your sleeping area is a great idea as well. Always test your meter before using a propane heater inside, and keep a window cracked or a vent fan on regardless of the outside temperature.

How to Choose a Sailboat to Live Aboard

Choosing a sailboat to live on is the first step in the process. You’ll have to first determine what kind of a sailboat you want, your budget, and what level of space and comfort you’re looking for.

The smallest feasible liveaboard sailboat (in which you can be hygienic and stand up straight) is about 20 feet in length, though the average size ranges from 26 feet to 40 feet. This is strictly speaking for monohull sailboats, as multihulls like catamarans have very different size and space standards.

The average comfortable liveaboard for one or two people is about 30 feet in length. A boat like this is affordable on the used market and includes everything you need to live a normal and healthy life.

A 30-foot sailboat almost always includes a shower, a full-size marine galley for cooking (with an icebox), a comfortable sleeping area, and a separate space for dining and working. You’ll likely have additional sitting areas too, and a chart table for navigating.

Anything beyond 30 feet will add additional space, but the accommodations will be about the same. A boat 25 feet and longer will likely have good standing headroom, which is a necessity for the vast majority of liveaboards.

Liveaboard Sailboat Prices

Finding a boat is largely a budget issue. Thankfully, there are lots of used sailboats on the market that are suitable to live in and relatively inexpensive. New sailboats cost upwards of $150,000–but don’t use this price as a benchmark for used sailboats.

The majority of suitable liveaboard sailboats can be found for less than $50,000, and a little bit of searching can get you a nice liveaboard for $10,000 or less. This makes the lifestyle an affordable option for many people, especially if you have a house or a car to sell prior to purchasing your boat.

The price of a used sailboat doesn’t necessarily predict its value or condition. Used sailboats, especially those 30 to 50 years old, don’t have pricing guides like cars do. Additionally, the maintenance and docking requirements often prompt owners to sell for far less than they’re worth.

Sailboat Accommodations

The minimum accommodations you’ll need to live aboard are a galley (kitchen), a table for eating and working, and a head with a toilet and a shower. Almost all cabin sailboats have a berth (bed), even if they don’t have anything else.

You’ll want a sailboat with electrical power too. Most sailboats produced after the 1940s are equipped with electric lighting and outlets, so just make sure that they work. All of these features can be found on sailboats 25 feet and larger.

Sailboat Condition

Condition is another important element to consider, and it can make or break your liveaboard experience. A sailboat with mold, leaks, a messed up electrical system, or other systemic problems can hamper the quality of life and be more trouble than it’s worth.

Cosmetic repairs are much easier to deal with than other problems, and you can always reupholster the interior. When given the option, choose a sailboat that’s solid and sanitary over one that looks good but has serious issues.

How to Stay Organized on a Sailboat

Staying organized is a big part of living aboard, and it can make the experience much more enjoyable and practical. In fact, liveaboards say that staying organized is one of the most important skills to develop. Here are some tips for staying organized aboard a sailboat.

Downsize Your Tools

Everyone needs a certain set of tools to live a clean and healthy life. These include cleaning equipment, dishes, pots and pans, and so on. On a sailboat, your primary constraints are space, power, and water, so you’ll have to develop a system that makes the most out of each.

Start with your cleaning equipment. Toss out that large vacuum and replace it with a dust buster. A well-made dustbuster-type vacuum can easily keep a sailboat clean, even if you have pets. It’s worth splurging on the best one you can find, as you’ll get more out of the space and electricity with a high-quality unit.

Next, change your habits to reduce the amount of cleaning you have to do. Try to minimize crumbs and spills by eating only at the table, and use glasses designed for sailboats.

Additionally, you can reduce the size of your cooking utensils and wash them immediately instead of using a second or third pan before doing the dishes. You’d be surprised by how much stuff you can do without if you’re conscientious about what you use.

Dedicate Storage Spaces

Dedicate storage spaces aboard to specific types of items. For example, choose a cupboard for cleaning supplies and figure out how to fit everything you need inside. Keep safety equipment in one area, and be sure to separate dirty from clean items.

For example, you can choose a cockpit locker for storing sails, engine tools, and other items to keep the smell and grime of diesel fuel, oil, and fiberglass resin away from your living space. Sailboats are often filthy because outdoor items are stored inside, but you can break this trend by separating them into logical spaces.

Many sailors store clothing underneath sitting areas, and you can keep them clean by using vacuum-seal bags or plastic boxes. Glasses can be stowed overhead, and books can be kept on exposed shelves.

Buy Smaller Items

This will cost more initially, but using supplies conservatively can offset the cost. Things like soap bottles, toothpaste tubes, and paper towel rolls are usually purchased in bulk but are available in smaller quantities.

It’s cheaper to buy in bulk, this is true. But some items that take up lots of space in bulk simply aren’t worth sacrificing a sitting area or an entire box of clothing for. Over time, you can use the smaller quantities to become aware of how much you use and how to reduce costs.

Reduce Garbage

We produce a lot of trash. Trash is the most useless waste of space aboard a sailboat and also one of the worst contributors to unpleasant odors and unsanitary conditions. The simplest solution is to stop using as much disposable stuff as possible.

A dish rag used instead of paper towels will reduce costs, save space, and last infinitely longer. Avoid buying items with excessive packaging, and if you do, dispose of the package onshore before bringing it aboard.

This is a great opportunity to eat healthier, too. Many liveaboards live without a microwave, as it saves space and vastly reduces the amount of processed food and food packaging trash you produce.

Instead of throwing out extra food every day, cook portions that you can finish. You’ll have to shop more often, but you’ll have more fresh food every day and your health will improve in the long run.

Downsize Your Stuff Collection

The most dramatic shift that new liveaboards have to contend with is the lack of space. There’s simply not enough space on a sailboat to store years of stuff. Unused Christmas presents, old shoes, that workout machine you got at a yard sale—it’s all gotta go.

Things like photo albums and hard drives should be kept (maybe offsite), but other items can almost always be disposed of one by one.

An easy way to choose what to donate or throw away is to lay everything out on your driveway and sort through each item individually. Address each item one by one, and decide if it’s indispensable. After you’ve chosen all of the things you need, the rest of the space can be used for the things you don’t need but want to keep.

How to Make Money Living on a Sailboat

Another necessity when living aboard is money. Unless you’ve got a major nest egg, you’ll need to work and make a living somehow. Decades ago, this was complex, as there were few jobs on the waterfront that paid well and didn’t break your back. But today, you can make a full-time living without stepping foot onshore.

Remote Work and Freelancing

Remote work is the best prospect for making a liveaboard income. The minimum required to survive is between $1,000 and $2,000 per month, and virtually everyone can utilize or learn a skill to make money online.

Freelance careers, such as writing, web design, or coding, are a great option if you have the skills or want to learn, and entry-level opportunities are available. Additionally, personal assistant jobs are a way to go if you have experience in that field or want to give it a shot.

If you already have a job, enquire if it’s possible to work remotely. Today, many types of work can be accomplished remotely, including everything from mortgage underwriting to accounting.

Living aboard is the perfect opportunity to start a career, such as photography. The reduced expenses and location give you an opportunity to learn the ropes without going broke in the interim, and you can do virtually everything involved with an internet connection and shore power.

Boat Repair

Living aboard a sailboat puts you in the best environment for boat repair work. Skilled mechanics, carpenters, and handymen can find work almost anywhere that boats are stored. You’ll have to ask around, but liveaboard mechanics are indispensable in many areas.

Engine repair pays very well—upwards of $50/hour—as local mechanics like liveaboards can charge below shop rates. Fiberglass and hull cleaning gigs can net several hundred dollars per boat, and cosmetic/interior repairs also pay generously.

Finding a Place to Dock

Finding a marina is one of the most frustrating steps to living aboard, as location has a big impact on cost and the viability of living aboard. Some marinas encourage liveaboards, but others ban it outright.

A good medium is a clean marina with a few liveaboards, as these areas encourage responsible living and quickly expel people who don’t respect the area. Piles of garbage on derelict boats are unsanitary and shouldn’t be found in the best marinas.

The best way to find a marina is to call all the local docks and inquire about living aboard, price, and general atmosphere. Additionally, pay each marina a visit to see what it’s like in person. Try to talk with other liveaboards about marina management, hidden costs, and how they like the experience. This can save headaches down the road.

Where to Learn More

The liveaboard community online is sizable, especially on platforms such as YouTube. If you’re looking for insights, spend some time on the internet searching for videos and forums on the topic.

Lots of channels are dedicated entirely to living aboard, and you can learn a lot about day-to-day tasks and realities. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn vicariously and improve your liveaboard experience, and it gives you an opportunity to meet other people who share your new lifestyle.

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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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