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......Also with a marina condo you really never escape the boat... and that could be something you may want to do... avoid the ever present reminder of boat work.
Ironically, I expect just the opposite. When it can be accessed 24/7, it becomes so much easier to put things off until tomorrow. We are very regimented now, so things are more likely to get done.
It is what it is and most likely will not be what you thought it would be.
Lots of times when people learn I live on a sailboat they go "That sounds nice.". I normally respond with "Yes when it's nice it is really nice. But when it sucks it REALLY SUCKS!" ....
If I was simply looking to “live aboard”, I’d buy one of those Holiday Houseboats or a 35’+ cabin cruiser with a large aft deck for deck chairs and a table. I bought a sailboat so I could sail places. Living in a marina on a sailboat has MANY downsides that you would not have on a houseboat. Unless of course we’re talking about a large, 50’+ sailboat but even then there would be compromises. Ideally if I lived in a marina full time I’d have a 35’ houseboat, then next to it a J24 sailboat and next to that, my 13’ Boston Whaler. Would make for comfortable living with plenty to do for fun. Having been trapped in a marina since May due to the Pandemic, the shortcomings of living in a marina on a cruising boat are immense. All the things that make her safe and comfortable offshore and at anchor become hindrances at a dock long term. Not to mention crazy bottom growth from not moving, having to have HVAC in the companionway due to no airflow, the weekenders who “come to party” and all the other little things that come with what is essentially living in an expensive trailer park. If you’re used to open water and serene anchorages, it’s quite a shock. On the flip side you meet lots of cool people, a few eccentric ones, and make long term friends. Also don’t discount the extra work such as constant prepping and fear from Tropical systems. (So far, Christobal, Hanna and a VERY close call from Laura).....being mobile means you’re not in the way of these storms. The boat projects you inevitably get into when tied to a slip means you kinda are. Just some things to think about. Minnie is spot on when he says “it’s more of a lifestyle”. You either love it and all that comes with it or you end up miserable. Been aboard for a few years now and I couldn’t even imagine doing anything else. Though in truth I can’t wait for Hurricane Season to be over; finish this minor refit and GTHO of here and back to traveling again. Pushing four months of 16 hour refit days and it’s becoming like a self inflicted prison. Lol. November can’t come soon enough. Good luck in your endeavors. All the best. AA
Hello everyone
We are a couple looking for close a chapter and open a new one. During this year living on shore have been really bad and it make us think even more about getting a sailing boat. So the question for those who actually live on a boat, is this a good option ? Obviously I assume that it depends in which area is the boat but even though please share your experience. We are planing to do charter in Croatia and Greece for few month and if the sailing is good probably buy a low budget boat after winter. Thanks
Recommend you read this Robert Pirsig Essay before you decide to take the plunge. Don't be taken by the lifestyle presented by the You Tubers. There are serious compromises and challenges and you have to be prepared for them:
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