On Board Living

Living aboard a boat is an adventure but at the same time consistent work to keep your boat properly maintained. There are things you will have to sacrifice and learn to live with out (creature comforts such as endless hot showers and staying indoors) but if you can adjust to these things, it is an exciting experience you will always remember, learn to love, and always want to be a part of.

If you plan to live aboard or at least spend a significant amount of time aboard a boat, you need to think about three things: What your intended use will be for the vessel, how much you expect to travel with the vessel, and how much money you are willing to invest in your boat. As for me, I was not rich, I had a moderate income, and my intention was to live aboard full time with my significant other and our son. This was a dream we both shared and based on circumstances in our lives we decided a few years ago it was the right time to do it.

There is alot of pre-purchase planning when making arrangements to move aboard a boat. My first advice is that if you are a new to the boating world get as much education as possible about your new lifestyle. Do not go into it blinded. Figure out your finances, estimate how much you have to budget for boat expenses every month, and save a monthly amount for unexpected expenses (and yes it does happen without warning). Learn the basics in marine navigation (also known as "the rules of the road"), boat terminology, basic boat handling, care and maintenance of your boat, and read everything you can about the vessel you intend to buy (owner's manuals, online boat forums, etc.). If you are truly planning to live aboard full time, part with things you can not take with you, or have a family member you trust watch over the things you absolutely want to hold onto. Anything you own that costs you unnecessary expenses (such as an RV, a 70 inch flat screen television your still making payments on, etc.), part with it before you move aboard. You will not need it. Keep it simple.