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Can you live on a yacht full time? Our advice

Choosing to live on a yacht full-time is not everyone’s cup of tea. However, the fact that you’re thinking about it suggests that you’re one of those people who finds the curiosities of a life spent bouncing on the sea, river, or lake appealing. It’s easy to romanticize the concept of living aboard a yacht full-time. However, such an unconventional lifestyle necessitates planning, organization, and the capacity to adapt to change. “”

There’s a lot to think about, from the type of boat you buy to where you’ll moor it, as well as various lifestyle aspects. Make checklists of essentials and discuss deal-breakers with your companion once you’ve decided to move aboard. Certainly, ensure that you are well-aware of the pluses and minuses of living on a yacht full-time. This will help you to better plan your budget and all the resources. So, before making the final move, brace yourself and your boat to enjoy the adventure. But at the same time, be prepared to face any uncertainties that can come along the way.

Living on a yacht : pros and cons

For most folks, living on a yacht full-time is an adventure. There are both upsides and downsides to living on a yacht.

Main advantages about living on a yacht

Relaxed way of living.

Slowing down and relishing life in an age where life today is becoming faster-paced, more demanding and hectic can be difficult. Unless you’re on a yacht, of course. The feeling of liberation amidst nature is only the onset. Everything becomes much simpler and minimalistic. You only have those things with you on a yacht which are essential.

Low Cost of Living

Living on a boat is frequently associated with luxury and affluence. However, this life is frequently less expensive than other lodgings. You’ll save money on utilities, water, plus the mortgage or rent.

Endless Adventure and Getting Closer to the Nature

The symphony of birds, the swaying of the yacht, and the splatter of waves, all bring you closer to nature when you live on the water. Raucous seals, dolphins, and seabirds will be your neighbors. Indeed, you will have fresh fish for dinner, and watch the seasons change minute by minute.

Main drawbacks about living on a yacht

Small confined spaces.

It takes some time to get used to the cramped living areas on a yacht. Plus, there are no personal spaces for individuals. Sometimes, living in such small spaces can be problematic, although it may not look like during the initial days of living aboard.

Costly Yacht Maintenance

Maintenance and repair work of a yacht is generally more expensive than one may imagine. Mechanical components are costly, and mechanics are even more so.

Unseen Weather Conditions

It is vital to be aware of the weather on a daily basis when living on a yacht. You’ll also know when the water is disturbed, and you won’t get much sleep as a result. Large yachts are less likely to rock. Furthermore, the correct type of anchorage can help you prevent some sleepless nights, but if it’s storming outside, be prepared to have a hard time sleeping.

Read also : The 5 best sailing boats under 60 feet

What do you legally need to do to live on a boat full-time?

Find a good boat insurance

Choosing the best boat insurance as per your needs is very essential before moving onto a yacht for full-time living. Certainly, this will cover the repairs due to storms, accidents that may occur on the waters. It also protects you from liability if your boat injures somebody or damages someone else’s property. Importantly, be aware that the cost of yacht insurance is higher than the cost of recreational boat insurance. Nevertheless, having a proper boat insurance provides peace of mind in the event of unforeseen circumstances. Examine various boat insurance choices based on your requirements, destination, budget, and way of life.

Register your yacht in an appropriate location

It’s also critical to conduct your homework while choosing a yacht registration place. All local laws will apply to your yacht once it is registered in a particular region. Many countries with appealing tax arrangements have other drawbacks that you should avoid. You’ll also want to register your yacht in a well-known location or country around the world. If you choose a bad-reputed place, you may be limited in your travel options or, at the very least, exposed to extra detainment and checks.

Keeping ties with administration

While living on a yacht full-time, make sure to have cordial relationships with the local authorities and administration related to boats and yachts. Consequently, this will prove beneficial in the long-term while dealing with any legal complications.

The intricacies of living in international waters

The most important thing to keep in mind while planning to live full-time on a boat is to understand the laws related to living on waters of other countries. Additionally, be mindful of the security and safety while living on international waters.

What is the minimum boat size to live on it full time?

A single individual might be able to get by with a 30 feet one, but a family of six would require something closer to 50 feet. It’s also important to consider how much gear you’ll be bringing onboard. If you want to get a fridge, or a washing machine, you will surely need a larger one.

How much does it cost to live on a yacht full time?

Typical costs you can’t avoid while living on a yacht

• Boat/yacht charges
• Maintenance
• Marina slips
• Property tax
• Waste management

Non-mandatory costs

• Frequent dining outs
• Entertainment expenses like internet or TV

Minimum budgets to live on a yacht

The minimum budget required to live full-time on a yacht depends entirely on one’s lifestyle and needs. Living on the yacht costs between $3,000 and $12,000 per month on average. This, certainly, depends on the number of people who will be living aboard and the place you will be traveling around.

Minimum budget to live full time on a yacht alone

This can lie in the range of $1,500 to $3,000 a month.

Minimum budget to live full time on a yacht as a couple

Somewhere between $3,000 to $5,000 a month.

Minimum budget to live on a yacht as a family

The minimum budget required to live full-time on a yacht with family may start from $5,000. Certainly, there is no upper limit as it may go up as per the family size, location, and needs.

The best affordable yachts for full-time living

The options for best reasonably priced yachts for living depends on your needs and budgets. On a general level, following are some affordable boat alternatives for full-time living:

• Beneteau Swift Trawler
• Alliaura Privilège catamaran ( view our Privilege 745 for sale )
• Swan Yachts
• Albin North Sea Cutter
• Lagoon 52 catamaran ( our Lagoon 52 for sale here )
• Sunreef Power 68 Catamarans

Read also : 10 Yachts for Sale Under a Million

The best places to live on a yacht

A multitude of quiet beaches, breathtaking sunsets, and blustering winds are all important factors to consider while looking for the dream destination to live on a yacht.  Here is a list of some of the best places around the world to live aboard a yacht.

• Australia and New Zealand
• The Caribbean
• The South Pacific
• Greek Islands
• Costa Smeralda, Italy
• The French Riviera

Readl also : Top 10 of destinations for Luxury yacht vacations

I want to live on a yacht, where should I start?

Step 1: Pick the Right Kind of Yacht and Documentation

The first stage in the process is to choose a yacht to live on. Consider the type of yacht you want, your budget, and the extent of space and comfort you require. Check all the utilities available on the yacht. Make sure you know everything about the fuel capacity, type and refuel ways to stay prepared.

Once you have decided on the yacht, compile all the necessary documentation related to it. This includes the tax and insurance documents. Also, have in place your passports and relevant sailing or boating licenses and certifications.

Step 2: Acquire the Beneficial Skills and Understand the Pertaining Laws

In terms of regularity and precision, boat maintenance may be worse than residential maintenance. Because boat systems are often less reliable than their domestic counterparts, basic plumbing, electrical, and mechanical skills will be required. Also, practice anchoring and sailing.

Next, keep yourself updated with all the related laws in the area where you are planning to live on a yacht.

Step 3: Downsize Before the Final Move

You won’t be able to bring all of your belongings onto the boat. It’s up to you how far you go with your downsizing. However, having a backup plan is always a smart idea. People’s opinions alter as a result of unforeseen events.

When relocating to a yacht to live on it full-time, there are numerous things to consider. It’s excellent to have a decent beginning point for things to put on the to-do list. Use this guidebook as a reference point for planning a full-time life on a yacht. Set deadlines and cross items off your to-do list one at a time. Maintain your focus on the end result.           

You may want to select the right boat to live in depending on your project. Contact us to discuss your option and we’ll help finding you the right one!

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• Living the dream: Exploring the best boats to live on

Living on a boat is a dream for many. The gentle rocking of the waves, the serenity of sunrises and sunsets over the water, and the freedom to explore new horizons are alluring prospects. However, choosing the right boat is essential to ensure your liveaboard experience is comfortable, safe, and enjoyable.

Factors to consider

Selecting the best boat to live on involves considering various factors, including size, layout, budget, and intended use. Whether you're drawn to the sleek lines of a sailboat or the power and space of a motor yacht, your decision should align with your lifestyle and preferences.

Living aboard: Pros and cons

Living on a boat comes with its pros and cons. While the tranquility of the water and the ability to travel to new destinations are definite perks, challenges like maintenance, space limitations, and weather considerations should also be acknowledged.

Customizing your living space

Personalizing your boat's interior is part of the joy of living aboard. Adding unique decor, optimizing storage, and incorporating creature comforts can transform your vessel into a true home.

Practical considerations

Living on a boat requires adaptability. From provisioning and waste management to maintenance and safety procedures, being well-prepared is essential for a successful liveaboard experience.

Read our top notch articles on topics such as sailing, sailing tips and destinations in our Magazine .

Benefits of living aboard

The benefits of living on a boat are vast. You'll enjoy a closer connection to nature, the ability to change your surroundings at will, and the sense of community among fellow liveaboards.

Challenges to anticipate

While boat living offers many rewards, it also presents challenges. Limited space, maintenance responsibilities, and weather-related concerns are aspects that require careful consideration.

Making the dream a reality

Turning your dream of living aboard into reality involves careful planning and preparation. From researching legalities and finding the right marina to downsizing your possessions, every step brings you closer to your floating lifestyle.

Luxury yacht

Selecting the ideal vessel

When choosing a boat to live on, consider your desired lifestyle, the number of occupants, and the areas you plan to explore. Research different makes and models, attend boat shows, and consult with experts to make an informed decision.

Sailboats for cozy living:

• Monohulls: Classic sailboats with efficient use of space and comfortable cabins.
• Small catamarans: Dual-hulled vessels providing stability and a close connection to the water.

Luxurious liveaboard yachts:

• Motor yachts: Spacious interiors, advanced amenities, and luxurious living spaces.
• Sailing yachts: Combining elegance and performance, these yachts offer both comfort and adventure.

Efficient trawlers for extended cruising:

• Trawlers: Fuel-efficient vessels with long-range capabilities, suitable for exploring distant waters.

Spacious catamarans for comfort:

• Large catamarans: Dual-hulled boats that offer stability, ample living space, and enhanced comfort.

Versatile power catamarans:

• Power catamarans: Efficient motor-driven vessels with the stability of catamaran design, perfect for long-term living.

Classic houseboats:

• Houseboats: Customizable floating homes with spacious layouts and a variety of amenities.

Custom-built expedition yachts:

• Expedition yachts: Purpose-built vessels designed for extended voyages, equipped with essential features for self-sufficiency.

Vintage schooners and clippers:

• Vintage sailboats: Restored classics with traditional charm, offering a unique and nostalgic living experience.

Riverboats for tranquil living:

• Riverboats: Designed for inland waterways, these boats provide a peaceful living environment along scenic rivers.

Converted fishing vessels:

• Converted fishing boats: Repurposed vessels transformed into comfortable liveaboard homes with a touch of maritime character.

Life on a boat is a daily adventure.

Top boat choices for comfortable living aboard

Beneteau Oceanis 50: A spacious monohull sailboat with comfortable accommodations and modern amenities.

Lagoon 450: A luxurious catamaran known for its stability, spaciousness, and exceptional living areas.

Nordhavn 52: A trawler yacht designed for long-range cruising, offering a comfortable and self-sufficient lifestyle.

Grand Banks 60: A classic trawler yacht with a timeless design, well-suited for extended cruising and liveaboard living.

Fountaine Pajot MY 40: A power catamaran featuring contemporary design and efficient living spaces for a comfortable life at sea.

Hanse 548: A stylish and performance-oriented sailing yacht with ample interior space and modern amenities.

Leopard 45: A popular catamaran choice for liveaboard enthusiasts, offering a balance of comfort and adventure.

Selene 59: An expedition trawler yacht built for world cruising, providing a safe and luxurious environment for extended stays.

Monte Carlo Yachts 70: A luxury motor yacht designed for both performance and comfort, with opulent interiors and expansive living areas.

Chris-Craft Corsair 34: A stylish powerboat with elegant design and comfortable amenities, suitable for coastal living.

So what are you waiting for? Take a look at our range of charter boats and head to some of our favourite sailing destinations .

FAQs about living on a boat

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Home Sweet Boat: The Best Liveaboard Boats to Fit Your Lifestyle

Ready to take the plunge into the liveaboard boat life? Or maybe you already live on your boat and want to upgrade?  

Anybody who has ever spent the night on any  recreational boat is likely to agree that while it might seem like any boat with a cabin would make a great liveaboard, that’s not necessarily the case.

Before you hang that "Home Sweet Boat" sign, there are considerations to keep in mind such as: your liveaboard's geographic location , local weather, inside a marina slip versus on the hook (as well as the proximity to businesses). Then there's your own personal preferences and lifestyle. 

For the purpose of this post, I’m going to concentrate on the liveaboard boats themselves - aspects like comfort, layout and sea hardiness.

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Ocean Liveaboard Boats

Sailboats, catamarans, trawlers and luxury yachts all make excellent liveaboard ocean boats. I enjoy the wide open expanse of saltwater  like the Atlantic Ocean (or Gulf of Mexico) for boating. If you do too, you may want to take a look at the following options.

Multi-Hull Boats

Double-hull catamarans and triple- hull trimarans offer stability in rough ocean waters. They also offer separate living spaces in the hulls . Plus, they just look cool.

Bridging the line between boat and insect-like creature, the graceful lines and slender sides of designer Dick Newick’s Custom 51 Trimaran are quite beautiful as it skims across the water. 

While a cat's below-deck space can be seen as cramped, the  above-deck area is nice and wide.

Multi-Hull Boat Brands

• Lagoon 380   
• Sunsail 384  
• Newick Custom 51 Trimaran

You might be thinking a monohull sailboat wouldn’t be the best choice for an ocean liveaboard boat, but consider this for a moment. During calm seas (or docked in a marina), the open decks offer living space for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors.  

Sailboat cabins can be quite plush with features like custom cabinets, teak decks and multiple staterooms. Most liveaboard sailboats are available with an engine, which I highly recommend for those times when the wind just isn’t cooperating … or when rough weather is approaching and you need to get to home (to your marina home, that is) or to a safe harbor quickly. Mostly for that last reason.

Sailboat Brands

• Gulfstar 44
• Island Packet 35
• Cheoy Lee Offshore 38

Sport Fishing Boats

In addition to many fishing amenities (like fighting chairs, 50-gallon coolers, in-deck fish boxes and an abundance of rod holders), sport fishing boats offer plentiful room above and below deck for living, dining and entertaining.

They’re built tough to withstand rough seas. Also, those flybridges are awesome features to have when you’re underway.

Interior features include spacious kitchens with full (or nearly full) size appliances, lengthy bench seating, high-tech sound and entertainment systems, comfortable staterooms and  storage space  for things like anchors , fenders , buoys and coolers.

Sport Fishing Boat Brands

• Albemarle 41 Express

I’ve written on liveaboard trawlers before, and I stand by them as great liveaboards for the ocean. The comfort of wide hulls, hard chines, less draft and below- deck headroom sends trawlers to the head of the liveaboard list.

Noise, maintenance and speed (or lack thereof) put some points on the con side. But, hey, you’re on “island time,” right? 

Trawler Brands

•   Beneteau Swift Trawler  
•  Grand Banks East Bay 44

Luxury Yachts

Now, who wouldn’t want a luxury yacht as a liveaboard? As plush and home-like as many of these floating hotels are, the price point is usually the deciding factor. Nonetheless, they make a fabulous liveaboard with multiple staterooms, heads with full-size showers and stylish living areas.

Gourmet galleys, media rooms and designer leather furnishings will make you forget you ever lived on land. 

On the downside (Isn't there always a downside?), luxury yachts are going to be more expensive as far as slips are concerned (if you're on the hook , that won't apply to you).

And, just like a house, you'll probably spend more time with the boat soap , deck cleaner , teak brightener  and other  boat cleaning products and maintanance.

Luxury Yacht Brands

•   Hatteras 90 Motor Yacht
• Sunseeker San Remo 53

River, Lake and Bay Liveaboard Boats

Easy access and fresh water make rivers, lakes and bays a popular choice for liveaboard boat anchorages. Since it's not on the open ocean, you won't have the worries of sea hardiness or the wear and tear of saltwater on hulls and your boat propeller . Of course, there's always the option of top-quality  de-salt concentrates  to alleviate that problem.

Houseboats are a common choice for rivers and lakes. Often, they’re moored in a marina and don’t move. They are, quite literally, a house sitting on the water. Think: MacGyver or Sleepless in Seattle .

Houseboat Brands

• Gibson Houseboat
• Sumerset Houseboats

Sailboats work as equally well in rivers, lakes and bays as they do in oceans. Like any other boat, you’ll want to consider the size of the boat when deciding where to anchor it. 

Sailboats and sport fishing boats with flybridges also require consideration for bridge clearance. For example, a 49-foot Hunter with full rigging wouldn’t be the best of choices for your local lake (regardless of whether there’s a bridge anywhere in sight).

Sailboat Brands for Lakes

• Beneteau Oceanis 34
• Catalina 39

Where to Anchor Your Liveaboard Boat

Technically, anywhere with water seems like it would be a good liveaboard location. But what works for others might not be your cup of tea. You’ll have to decide whether you want to be on the ocean, the bay, a river or a lake. Or, maybe you’ll choose all of them.

That’s one of the best aspects of a liveaboard. You can pull up that boat anchor  and line whenever you want and take off for somewhere new.

Atlantic Ocean

From Kennebunkport to Key West, the Atlantic Ocean offers a wide array of liveaboard locations - Bar Harbor, Maine; Norfolk, Virginia; Charleston, South Carolina; and the Outer Banks of North Carolina - to name just a few.

The main downside is winter time in the northern regions. Year-round sunshine, warm temps and blue skies make Florida a prime liveaboard boat choice. With its peninsula-like shape, the state was practically created for boat lovers. Maybe that’s why so many of them live there.

Florida also has the distinction of having two coastal choices, the Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico. The Atlantic side has Jacksonville, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and the Keys among many more. See below for Gulf Coast ideas.

Pacific Ocean

Thanks to movies like Sleepless in Seattle , we all wanted to move to Seattle and live on a houseboat. What? You didn’t? Okay, maybe that was me. The point is, even in areas typically considered too cold, or not conducive to the liveaboard life, you can live on a boat. Thanks for that, Tom Hanks. And, yes, technically, it was Puget Sound, but you get the idea.

San Francisco, Long Beach and San Diego are a few coastal California liveaboard locations you might consider. Let’s not forget Astoria, Tillamook, Pacific City and Yachats, Oregon.

Gulf of Mexico

The Gulf of Mexico is my absolute favorite body of water. Sorry, Atlantic and Pacific. Warm waves, soft sand and shades of turquoise and sapphire…it’s the Caribbean without the passport hassle.

Tampa, Clearwater, St. Pete and the Gulf side of the Keys make up this idyllic area. Then, you’ve got Gulf Shores, Alabama; Pascagoula, Mississippi and the Texas Gulf Coast.

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Rivers, Lakes and Bays

Many rivers and lakes flow through well-known cities, making them a prime spot to drop an anchor . Baltimore, Maryland is an anchorage choice for the Potomac River, while several areas in Virginia and Maryland offer liveaboard life on the Chesapeake Bay.

New York and New Jersey have the Hudson River. Chicago offers the urban waterfront of Lake Michigan. Even though the word “lake” is in the name, the Great Lakes are more like oceans, in my opinion. Perhaps that’s why they put “great” in front. 

Just a few areas include Grand Haven, Michigan; Egg Harbor, Wisconsin and Two Harbors, Minnesota on Lake Superior and Lakeside, Ohio and Erie, Pennsylvania on Lake Erie. 

These are locations where you’ll have to decide how much winter weather you can take in a boat, but I’ve heard that the summers are amazing. In conclusion, a few factors you'll want to consider before diving into liveaboard life are:

• Number of people living on board
• Boat size (related to the number of people living on board)
• Where the boat will be docked
• Conveniences you (or the rest of your party) can't live without (though you may find that you can) - for example, a separate shower stall rather than a wet head

• choosing a selection results in a full page refresh

My Cruiser Life Magazine

17 Best Sailboats to Live On + What You Should Know First

Many dream of living aboard a sailboat, but finding the right one can be daunting. There are many different types, and countless manufacturers have come and gone over the years. 

Here’s a list of 17 options – a sailboat for every sailor on every kind of budget. 

Table of Contents

17 best sailboats to live on, pros of living aboard a sailboat, cons of boat life.

• Find Your Type of Boat 

Set Your Boat Budget

What size boat to pick, best liveaboard sailboats under 35 feet (< 35 feet), best liveaboard sailboats under 40 feet (35–40 feet), best liveaboard sailboats under 45 feet (40–45 feet), best liveaboard sailboats under 50 feet (45–50 feet), best liveaboard sailboats under 60 feet (50–60 feet), want to live on a sailboat, best sailboats to live on faqs.

• Catalina 34/35
• Panda/Baba 35, Tashiba 36a
• Gemini 105MC
• Islander Freeport 36
• Passport 40
• Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 42DS
• Leopard 42/43
• Beneteau Oceanis 473
• Hallberg Rassy 46/48
• Leopard 46/Moorings
• Amel Super Maramu 2000
• Privilege 585

What to Know First

So, boat shopping is a challenge, to say the least. Understanding where to start and what to look for comes down to understanding what you want to do with your boat.

Here’s a look at some pros and cons of living aboard to get you started.

• Seaside living at a fraction of the cost of a waterfront home
• Ability to travel anywhere by water
• Ability to move anytime—not tied to one location/town
• Different liveaboard lifestyle options to choose from: at a dock, mooring, anchoring, cruising (traveling)—tired of one, mix it up for a different experience
• Small living space lacks storage and privacy
• Limited resources: you must meter your fuel, water, and electricity use when not at a dock
• More exposed to the elements and more affected by weather events
• Seating and furnishings are less comfortable than in a house
• Constant maintenance to keep the boat seaworthy and clean

How to Find the Best Boat to Live on Year Round

At first, you might think boat shopping is like looking for a new car. But when shopping for a car, you have a small pool of manufacturers and models to choose from. In the end, you might have five choices and already have an opinion about each maker’s quality and reputation.

Boats are different. We’re usually shopping for boats that are a decade or more old. The manufacturers may have gone out of business years ago. When you total up all the possible makes and models of each type of boat, you might have dozens of choices with brands you’ve never heard of. Yikes!

Find Your Type of Boat

There are dozens of types of boats you could live on, depending on where you want to live and where you want to take it. Most people shopping for a sailboat will choose between coastal cruisers, bluewater boats, and sailing catamarans.

Here are some of the pros and cons of these sailboat types. 

The Coastal Cruiser

• Inexpensive compared to bluewater and catamarans
• Perfect for dock living or near-shore hops
• With modifications and the right outfitting, many have island-hopped the Caribbean
• Many to choose from, and often they are lightly used
• Designs are often race-inspired and faster than typical heavy bluewater boats
• Newer, bigger boat for your money
• Often production boats have low-quality, lightweight builds

Related: Best Trailerable Sailboats

The Bluewater Sailboat

• The best bluewater cruising sailboats are capable of going anywhere
• Built to last and take anything
• Give the most comfortable ride in rough conditions
• Newer examples are expensive
• Good ones sell quickly
• Older vessels may be tired and in need of an extensive refit
• Often lack the living space that coastal cruisers have—narrower beams and transoms

The Catamaran

• Cruising cats have the maximum living space, especially cockpit dining and upper salon
• Light-filled with plenty of airflow, perfect for the tropics and living at anchor
• Larger models (40+ feet) are bluewater boats capable of going nearly anywhere
• A shallower draft than most monohulls allows for more cruising and anchoring choices
• More expensive to purchase, keep, and maintain than similar-sized monohulls  
• The most in-demand vessels, prices are high and good ones sell fast 
• Sometimes hard or expensive to find dock space and boatyards that can haul it out for maintenance

Still unsure which side of the monohull vs. catamaran debate you’re on? Try to get aboard some boats and experience the living space first-hand.

Everyone has a budget when going boat shopping, even if you’re Jeff Bezos or Elon Musk. Establishing how much you can spend on your boat is the biggest factor that will affect your decision, and it’s the backbone for all other decisions. 

You must understand just how much boat costs increase as the size of boat increases. Boats are already expensive, and the average cost of owning and buying a liveaboard sailboat varies dramatically. But when the boat gets bigger, it needs bigger hardware, lines, rigging, sails, motors…everything. And bigger means more expensive, so these costs add up fast.

And then there are your storage and boat maintenance costs, all of which are charged per foot. The marina might charge you $15 per foot/per month for a dock slip, and the boatyard will similarly charge you per foot to haul and store the boat. Divers charge per foot for bottom cleaning, as do detailers for annual compounding and waxing of the hull.

When it comes to budgeting, there are two rules of thumb. 

• Always pick the smallest boat you can comfortably live on.
• If you have an amount budgeted for your boat purchase, spend half on the boat and save the other half for outfitting and maintenance.

As you’ll see below, boats can be grouped by price and size. When you go up in size, you go up in price—often by a lot.

The size of the boat is a factor of your budget, but also of how big a boat you can handle. Most people believe this means driving it and maneuvering it, which is true to some extent. But a good training captain can teach you what you need to know to drive any size boat in just a few sessions. 

No, the size of the boat you can manage refers more to how much maintenance you want to do. The bigger the boat, the more complex and plentiful its systems. There’s more to break on a bigger boat, and more things broken means more time fixing things.

Catamarans compound this by doubling a lot of the systems. Two engines, two saildrives, two hulls to wax, two hulls to bottom paint—you get the idea.

Another factor you should consider early on is getting insurance. Yacht insurance has gotten harder and harder to get in recent years. If you’ve never owned a boat and have no experience, you might be forced to get something small (think an under 30-foot daysailor) to get some experience on before you move up. It’s also difficult because many underwriters won’t write policies for liveaboards. 

As a general rule of thumb, most people will find boats under 35 feet too small to live on full-time. Most of these vessels don’t even have standing headroom. There is often only a “wet head,” one where you take showers while sitting on the toilet.

Boats 35 to 40 feet are good for solo travelers or couples who don’t mind living in small quarters. The beds will be small and accessed only from one side, as in a v-berth or a Pullman-style berth. If there is one, the second bunk is likely only for the occasional guest. 

You’ll get better accommodations when you move up to 40 to 45 footers. The second bunk may be in its own stateroom. The main suite will have an island-style berth that can be accessed from both sides—a huge upgrade for most couples. The head will likely have a separate, enclosed shower. This size sailing yacht makes a good liveaboard sailboat for most boaters.

Boats bigger than 45 feet are best for bigger families. If you often travel with kids or guests, these are the boats for you. They’re extremely spacious and make boat living easy, but the extra maintenance and cost may not be worth it.

The List — Best Sailboats to Live Aboard

All lists, whether found in internet blogs or international sailing magazines, have issues. There’s no one list to rule them all because there are simply too many different boats out there. And everyone uses their boat differently, so the “best” for you might be a terrible choice for me. Different boats for different folks, so to say.

So, what’s the deal with this list? It’s made from personal experience of having seen a lot of boats out cruising. And it’s a list that tries to put aside the fantasies—Oysters and Gunboats are pretty in magazines, but like Ferraris, not many of us will ever own one. So let’s look at some practical boats that fill each size category. 

For every boat on this list, a dozen or more could’ve been included. Use these models to research brands and see which sizes suit your needs.

Boats under 35 feet tend to be best suited for solo travelers or couples comfortable living in small spaces. As always, coastal cruisers in this class have much more space than bluewater boats do. Catamarans in this class are also coastal cruisers—you need more length and volume to get real bluewater performance out of a cat. No matter which type of boat you’re looking at here, storage space on this size of liveaboard boat will be limited.

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Coastal Cruiser Under 35 — Catalina 34/35

If you want to move aboard, you’re on a budget, and you want the most space you can get, it’s really hard to beat an older Catalina. Starting with the Catalina 30, these beamy boats have a surprising interior volume. They make great first liveaboards.

Bluewater Sailor Under 35 — Panda/Baba 35, Tashiba 36

The famous yacht designer Bob Perry drew these Taiwanese-built boats, all tracing their lineage to the older Tayana 37 . They’re updated slightly and built by different yards, but all full keels with cutaways and built for bluewater cruising. They all have gorgeous teak joinery and are comfortable and forgiving at sea. 

Catamaran Under 35 — Gemini 105MC

The Gemini 105M and 105MC were arguably the most popular cat models ever. They’re American-built, with a single diesel engine and a narrow beam that allows them to be parked in a standard boat slip. In the US, this means many more marina choices if that’s how you roll. The boat has centerboards and kick-up rudders, so the board-up draft is a scant 18 inches—gunkholing perfection. 

While some Geminis have crossed oceans, they aren’t made for it. They have average (sometimes below-average) build quality and fiberglass work. However, they’re perfect coastal cruisers and capable of heading into The Bahamas.

The Gemini should be on your shortlist if you’re looking for a cheap catamaran .

Runner Up: PDQ 32

Are you looking for a small cat with better build quality? They didn’t make many of them, but the PDQ 32 is what you seek. It’s an attractive small catamaran with a wider beam. It came with twin outboards in wells, but the LRC (long-range cruiser) option had inboard diesels.

Forty feet is the sweet spot for most cruising couples—big enough to be comfortable and carry enough provisions but small enough that handling and maintenance are manageable. This class of boat has a lot of excellent choices in both coastal cruiser and bluewater boats, making it a good size range to find the perfect affordable liveaboard sailboat.

The catamaran group from 35 to 40 feet has a few very popular choices, but they are right on the edge of being too small for most cruisers. Counterintuitively, these cats are perfect for couples who don’t mind downsizing and traveling lightly. These shorter cats are prone to hobby horsing and don’t provide as comfortable a ride in bluewater as slightly longer cats do. 

Coastal Cruiser Under 40 — Islander Freeport 36

The Islander brand is no longer around, but these California-built production boats from the 1970s and 80s were well-built and well-liked. The I32 and I36 were very popular cruising boats designed by Bob Perry. The Freeport 36 is a before-its-time European deck salon with enormous windows. The swing-down swim platform is another bonus for a boat from this era, as are the Pullman-style berth and forepeak-located head (some layouts). If you can find one in good condition, these boats make excellent liveaboards. 

Bluewater Sailor Under 40 — Passport 40

Yet another boat from the desk of Bob Perry, the Passport 40, is a sharp-looking aft-cockpit bluewater cruiser from one of the best yards in Taiwan. They feature a long fin keel and skeg-mounted rudder. Everything about this sloop is just right for long-term cruising.

Catamaran Under 40 — Prout 38

The Prout 38 traces its heritage back to the earlier Prout Snowgoose. The boat is still being made, now under the Broadblue brand. It’s a sturdy British-built cat made for serious offshoring. While it lacks some of the open feeling that newer charter boats have, it more than makes up for it with its robust and high-quality build.

Runner Up: Leopard 40 (2005-2009)

This early L40 (don’t get confused with the newer ones built around 2020) was designed by famous multihull designers Morelli and Melvin. It’s got more of the things you might expect from your typical charter cat: a sliding salon door, galley-up layout, and a huge walk-through cockpit.

While this seems a small step up from the size of boats above, prices increase rapidly above the 40-foot mark. At this point, the boat’s gear needs to be bigger and heavier, from all the lines and rigging to each block and winch. Engines are now larger four-cylinder diesels, and there’s much more hull area to clean and paint. 

A 45-foot coastal cruiser has enough space to keep a small family happy for short trips or a couple happy for any length of time. These boats usually have island berths in a spacious master bedroom, so no more crawling over each other just to go to the bathroom! Bluewater boats in this class are a little smaller inside, making them just right for most couples doing a long-term cruise.

As far as catamarans go, the 40 to 45-foot range is the perfect sweet spot for most cruising couples. A spacious interior plus excellent seakeeping abilities make these top picks. There are tons of boat choices out there, and most of the best cruising catamarans come from this size group.

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Coastal Cruiser Under 45 — Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 42DS

Jeanneau is part of Groupe Beneteau , but their boats often have a more refined finish than Beneteaus. The DS stands for “deck salon.” They feature larger windows that let in more light and have better visibility than a standard cruiser. This is especially welcome if you’re attracted to the living space in a catamaran but need something smaller and more affordable. 

The 42DS also has an enormous island berth, plus a huge twin-helm cockpit with lots of space for entertaining.

Bluewater Sailor Under 45 — Hylas 44

The Hylass 44 is regularly picked as one of the best offshore cruising boats. It’s a center cockpit boat designed by German Frers.  It has a wonderful layout with tons of living space and a large, usable galley. The aft cabin has a large island berth with an en suite head. 

Catamaran Under 45 — Leopard 42/43 (2001-2006)

These early Leopard charter cats are highly sought after on the used market. Like all charter cats, the best finds are the “owners versions” with one hull dedicated to the master stateroom with en suite head and shower. The Leopard 42, which came out in 2002, had a soft canvas cover over the cockpit and was updated to the Leopard 43 with a hardtop. 

Above 45 feet is another big price jump. For beginners, these big boats will require some training and experience before you head out on your own. 

Related: Best Boat for Beginners

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Coastal Cruiser Under 50 — Beneteau Oceanis 473

This big Beneteau came with either 2, 3, or 4 staterooms. Finding the right layout is as important as finding the right boat. The two-stateroom version has enormous berths and lots of storage, perfect for couples with occasional guests or families of three. Most have the standard keel with less than a six-foot draft, making this fin keel/spade rudder boat a rare find. They were built from 2000 to 2005.

Bluewater Sailor Under 50 — Hallberg Rassy 46/48

Hallberg Rassys are well-regarded boats built in Sweden, mostly designed by German Frers. These are high-end boats of the best quality, so don’t expect to find one available cheaply. They’re gorgeous, however, and make wonderful world cruisers.

Catamaran Under 50 — Leopard 46/Moorings 4600 (2006)

If you want a big catamaran, it’s hard to go wrong with the 2006 Leopard 46. Where modern Lagoon and Leopards have tall profiles with tons of windage, this is one of the newest, largest boats that still have single-level living. It has distinctive hull chines that increase living space without increasing wetted surface and plenty of sail area for good performance. In true Leopard fashion, all lines are led to the helm for easy short-handed cruising despite the boat’s large size.

Boats in this class are borderline yachts based on their sheer size. If you were to charter these boats, they’d usually come with a crew. That size means they’re more expensive and more of a handful to manage daily. 

Coastal Cruiser Under 60 — Irwin 54

The Irwin brand is long gone, but many examples are available on the used market. They were known especially for their large center cockpit ketches, like this 54-footer. This is a spacious, big water boat that certainly meets the qualifications of most bluewater boats. They can go anywhere, but they may need maintenance and refit given their ages. 

Don’t get to lured by the low prices of these boats. You’ll have to lay out some serious cash to get one ready to cruise long-range. But if you aren’t opposed to some hard work and projecting, the Irwin can get you a lot of boat for not much money.

Bluewater Sailor Under 60 — Amel Super Maramu 2000 (53′)

Made famous by the Delos YouTube channel, the Amel is a French-built brand of high-quality bluewater boats. Today, this brand’s new models look like many others—wide sterned, flat-bottomed sloops. But the Maramus that made them famous were unique—ketch rigged and ruggedly built, designed to take a cruising couple anywhere. Electric winches were standard on everything to keep such a large boat easy to operate.

Catamaran Under 60 — Privilege 585

Privilege is the French-made catamaran that you don’t hear enough about. Unlike Lagoon and Fountaine Pajot, these are beefy cruising boats ready to take you anywhere. Their construction and fit-and-finish are first-rate, as is the joinery down below. 

Living on a sailboat is an adventure—it’s not for everyone. Finding the right boat is an important part of doing it successfully, but it’s not the only step in preparing for the lifestyle.

You should also consider checking my post on liveaboard catamaran options, to make sure you research thoroughly enough!

What makes a great liveaboard sailboat?

Everyone’s priorities for a liveaboard sailboat are different—a bluewater cruiser looking to sail around the world might pick a very different boat from someone who lives full-time dock life. In general terms, you need to find a boat that is safely capable of taking you where you want to go and has enough living space to be comfortable while doing it. 

Sailing catamarans are some of the most popular liveaboard sailboats because their living space is unmatched. Most are also bluewater-capable cruisers that can go pretty much anywhere. 

What is the best size sailboat to live on?

The size of the boat you’ll be comfortable on long term is a personal choice that depends on your personality and the number of people you’ll be traveling with. Solo travelers may be content with a sailboat around 30 feet, while most couples are comfortable on something around 40 feet. Forty-five to fifty feet is more realistic if you often have guests or kind on board. 

With all of this in mind, however, it’s really important to remember that the costs of buying and maintaining a sailboat increase exponentially with length. Getting the smallest boat you are comfortable living on is always better because that will be easier to manage and keep in the long run.

What are the negatives of living on a sailboat?

People live on their sailboats differently, so it’s difficult to narrow down the biggest negatives. Everyone struggles with the small living space that a boat affords. You’ll have to downsize your possessions to the absolute minimum you need. And getting personal space away from your spouse or family is pretty much impossible on a small boat. 

Why are sailboats so expensive?

New boats require a massive investment in time and resources to produce. The nicer the boat, the more time and skill it takes to build, which makes costs soar. Some production companies, like Beneteau, have found ways to reduce production costs and keep the price of new boats more reasonable. But these boats pale compared to other yachts in terms of overall quality. 

Older used boats can be found pretty cheaply. In fact, it’s often possible to find free or nearly-free boats that are on their way to the junkyard or dumpster. The key is understanding how much work and money it will take to get these boats ready to go again. 

Is it a good idea to live on a sailboat?

Living on a boat is an amazing way to experience seaside living or traveling the world by water. But it’s also a unique, out-of-the-ordinary lifestyle choice that’s not without challenges. 

Before you move onto a sailboat, you’ll want to research the topic carefully and talk to some folks who already to it. Many people start with occasional boating, spending a week or more onboard to try it out. With a little experience, it’s easy to see if it’s something you could do for the long term or if it’s best to keep a land house and enjoy the water occasionally.

Can you live comfortably on a sailboat?

Many people live comfortably on sailboats, but a lot depends on the size of the sailboat and your tolerance for living in a small space. Even the largest sailboats can feel cramped, while some folks love the cozy feeling of living on the tiniest boats. 

Matt has been boating around Florida for over 25 years in everything from small powerboats to large cruising catamarans. He currently lives aboard a 38-foot Cabo Rico sailboat with his wife Lucy and adventure dog Chelsea. Together, they cruise between winters in The Bahamas and summers in the Chesapeake Bay.

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12 Best liveaboard Sailboats To Live on | What’s Best For You?

Are you considering buying a live-aboard boat? If so, there are many options to choose from. Obviously everyone’s choice is unique, so “the best live-aboard sailboat” is a subjective topic. Therefore we have come up with a list of 12 best live-aboard sailboats that will serve everyone’s needs. Whether you are looking for a smaller vessel, a 20 feet, because you are a solo sailor or you want an all-out house on water, there is a vessel for you in to consider . 

But first, you will have to decide what your budget, needs and desires are. Once you have that clearly identified, you can then go on to see what are the best vessels for you according to your personal requirements.

Here are our top 12 best live aboard sailboats:

Catalina 30, contessa 32, islander 36, leopard 45 catamaran, beneteau oceanis 57, peterson 44.

When choosing a sail aboard vessel, it is crucial to consider the following 11 elements that distinguish a great boat from the rest. These are:   

The size of the boat 

The condition and seaworthiness of the vessel.

• Standing headroom in the cabin
• Having a good size Water tank
• Having a good size fuel tank
• Does the boat have a Water maker

A fully functioning Galley (kitchen)

• Heating and ventilation 

Shower and Toilet

• Power Availability

Seating Area

Sailboats are among the best liveaboard vessels on the water, there are some other types of boats that one can live in such as recreational boats, luxury yachts, trawlers, Sport fishing boats, houseboats etc., to name a few, but we are more interested in liveaboard sailboats which has many advantages over the other types.

So far we shared with you our top 12 best liveaboard sailboats and what makes a sailboat the best vessel to live on. In the following sections we will cover each sailboat in much more detail and explaining everything you need know to make an educated decision. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll feel confident enough to choose your dream sailboat to live in.

Things To Consider Before Living Aboard A Sailboat

Sailboats vary a lot from size, design and amenities to the comfort level they come with. Deciding which one is best for you depends on the overall purpose and requirement and the level of comfort you require while living aboard. 

For instance, some sailors find themselves okay living aboard on a sailboat that has no shower or a fully functioning galley. While for others it is important to have an electric toilet, a fully functioning galley and practical salon with some type of entertainment system installed. 

Additionally, you need to identify the purpose of the vessel, will your sailboat serve as an off offshore accommodation or an inshore accommodation. 

Offshore vessels generally don’t come with unnecessary furniture just to increase storage space on the boat. Also these boats have different sleeping layouts to provide for easy access and to ensure that the crew can stay in control of the boat at all times. 

Inshore sailboats on the other hand are geared towards luxurious interior design and high comfort level. Generally, inshore vessels stay within 2 miles from the shore therefore, they will have less storage space to allow for other luxurious amenities to exist.

In any case it is imperative to know what purpose will your sailboat serve and what amenities do you require before you can make an educated decision. 

What Makes A Liveaboard Sailboat The Best One?

Here are a list of characteristics of the sailboats that we believe make a liveaboard sailboat a great one: 

When it comes to living aboard, the size does matter, so depending on how many people are going to be sailing and living with you, generally bigger sailing boats offer are more comfortable. We will discuss this topic in the sections to come in great detail.

Is the boat you are about to live on in a good condition. When you buy a new sailboat for this purpose then it is a must that you hire a professional surveyor to assess the condition and the seaworthiness of the vessel before you make any down payment. Yes, it will cost you a bit, but that fee will save you a lot of money and headache.

Standing Headroom

The next feature is standing headroom. It is imperative to be able to stand upright properly without needing to crawl or bend yourself to move from one part of the boat to another. A good boat should offer at least between 5 feet 11” or 6 feet tall headroom. This element is important to consider for the health of your back and neck in the long run.  

Bigger Water Storage Tank

This is a crucial element that many older boats miss out on it. On average sailboats come with only 60 gallon tank capacity. If you make long passages then at least you should have a double of that aboard, meaning 120 gallons depending how far your destination is, you would be much safer to have 180 gallons if you are in a seaway for an extended period of time.

The last thing we don’t want to happen to you is that you run out of drink water while days away from the closest civilisation. Therefore, we recommend you to have approximately 140 gallons of water aboard during mid to long range trips or ocean crossing depending on how many people live aboard. Although, 40 gallons water storage tank is standard in the industry, you can increase this by having a few 5 gallon water container (also known as jerry cans). We have used these tanks in the past they are amazing. Click here to check these out on Amazon.

Bigger Fuel tanks

Like the water tank it is very important to have bigger fuel tanks if you plan to sail and explore the world. To give you an idea, for a 44 feet vessel a great fuel tank size will be in the range between 100 -120 gallons and on the contrary, a 30 gallons fuel tank is considered small for the same size boat. A 55 gallons Fuel tank for a 34 feet boat is classified as adequate, while a 25 gallon is considered a small fuel tank.

Although, if the boat you are considering to buy ticks all the other box except for this one, then you know that you can buy a few portable fuel tanks to resolve this issue. The best ones that I have found on Amazon will cost you around $85 for 12 gallon container. Click here to check for availability.

Does the boat have a water maker

A water maker is a live support equipment and a great amenity to have on your liveaboard sailboat that you can’t do without one. This is not a so important if you have super large storage tanks to store the water for you. Or you are located in the Caribbean where water is readily available everywhere. Other than that having a water maker means that you don’t have to worry about running out of water in the middle of the ocean, for this reason a water maker could be a life saver in some instances.

The water maker, like any other systems on the boat, needs some level of maintenance from time to time, but the quality of water that you get from a decent water maker out weighs the associated maintenance and costs.

In order to make life easier aboard this option is a must on our list, while sailboats’ galleys vary from only being able to prepare light meals to a fully equipped kitchen, but a great sailboat should at least have a fridge, cooking stove and a sink. Having a small oven is a luxury but not a necessity. 

Heating and ventilation

Even in the warmer locations, it can get really cold in the nights during winter months. So, if a boat comes with a heater, be it electric or diesel, is a great advantage. I have written a very useful article on how to heat your sailboat during winter months. Click here to read it.

Likewise, proper ventilation is crucial when living aboard a sailboat for an extended period of time. This is because mold and mildew grow in places that are dump and poorly ventilated. We know now that mold is very toxic to humans and animals.  

With proper ventilation we mean a roof vent, a porthole or window that allows sufficient air flow, also good insulation help against condensation and dump.  

Having a shower and a fully functioning toilet that is adequately supplied with water is one of the necessities on our list. It is vital to have a clean boat to prevent spread of diseases due to poor sanitation.

A good sailboat should have a well built-in toilet with safe waste storage tank. 

Power Availability  

A great vessel offers 120V AC outlets, some less great sailboats might offer only a 12V outlet, but if you live aboard all year round, you will need electricity to have your cell phones, laptops, batteries charged. 

A great boat should come with good size seating area other than beds or banks. It is important to have seating area for everyone to set while eating, working or just chilling out.

What is the best size sailboat to live on?  

Liveaboard monohulled sailboats.

The answer is very subjective and depends on a few factors: your budget, family size, the level of comfort and convenience you wish to have while living aboard. 

The smallest sailboat a single person can live in with very basic amenities is about 19 feet. A 23 – 26-feet vessel will offer a much decent living space but If you want comfort, 30 feet and longer will offer a great living abroad experience, as they come with dedicated washing, cooking and living spaces.  

For couples the 37 – 44 feet range will offer a comfortable living aboard space. While families with kids and pets, probably 45-50 feet range will be the most comfortable. 

We have researched best size sailboat to live in, here is a summary of our findings:

Liveaboard Catamaran Sailboats

Catamarans on the other hand will offer you the most space and comfort. Catamarans have two hulls and a salon attaching the two hulls together, allowing for more space. In addition to that they tend to be more stable and go much faster than a monohulled sailboat, due to their physical structure and size and number of sails. These vessels are well known for their safety, pleasant and smooth sailing characteristics. However they are much more expensive then monohulled sailboats.

These vessels offer a comfortable liveaboard experience. Our findings show that living aboard a 30-feet catamaran offers a comfortable and good enough space for a couple and a 1 child or a pet. 

A 35-feet catamaran will accommodate at least 4 people (4 adults or 2 adults and 2 kids) comfortably. Here is a summary of our findings:

Is living on a sailboat worth it? Pros & Cons

In this section we will discuss some of the pros and cons of living aboard a sailboat and will leave the judgement to you to judge whether it is worth it or not.

What are the advantages of living aboard a sailboat?

There are a few advantages that come with living aboard. We will discuss them one by one below:

Freedom and Relaxed lifestyle

Living aboard a sailboat may provide you the freedom and comfort that will not be possible anywhere else. Just as RVs on land offer great freedom while traveling from one place to another on land, living aboard allows you to take your entire household to a different geographic location whenever you choose to do so. 

This lifestyle comes with freedom and nearly limitless opportunities for exploration. Likewise, living aboard means living a life away from the fast paced life of the modern era, a way from many stressors to living a truly laid back and relaxed lifestyle. 

Safety and sense of community

For many of us living in a safe environment is absolutely a must, that is exactly what marinas offer you. Marinas are regarded as very safe places as they have the most advanced security gates, CCTV cameras and professional security guards present on the marine who keep watch 24/7. 

In addition to that, marinas are one of the best places to socialise as well. You will come across many like minded and well-travelled people who can share their knowledge and sailing expertise with you and vice versa.

Scaping the cold months and saving money

Also living aboard allows you to travel to the southern part of the country (or world) in the colder months of the year, where it is much warmer in the south than in the northern hemisphere. This lifestyle is really something unique and cool to be able to live where-ever and when-ever you want. 

Cost of living aboard a sailboat in majority of the cases is far less than living a life in a typical house or apartment. If you live fully all year round on a sailboat and you don’t have any residential rent or mortgage costs to pay, you can live very cheap and even save money. Of course you have to rent a slot in your desired marina, but usually it is much cheaper than renting a house or paying for your monthly mortgage payment in that same area. 

It goes without saying that if you live aboard only a few months in a year that you will have higher costs, as you still have to pay for a marina slot as well as your house expenses. 

What are some disadvantages of living aboard a sailboat?

So far we mentioned some of the pros why living aboard a sailboat could be desirable for many. While what we have mentioned above is true, there are some cons that come with this lifestyle, I will mention a few below:

Lack of space

From my experience, what I miss when I am sailing for days on end, is the lack of space. I mean by that no room for yourself or for your belongings. Even the largest catamarans will not be able to offer you the same amount of space as the typical house does, so anything less than that will be even more tighter living. 

Some sailors who live aboard all-year round find it easier to rent a storage locker, additionally choosing this lifestyle will mean that you will have to get used to taking your wash to the laundry and get used to having a small refrigerator and small storage spaces. It is crucial that you know your crew well or people who will live with you. While living aboard with someone is a great way to bond with each other, it can also be challenging at times, especially due to lack of privacy and personal space.

Bad Weather

Although sailors have the choice to sail to warmer locations during the winter month, which many do, they cannot escape from the storms, floods, hurricanes and even worse of them all the tsunamis. Because severe weather conditions could be seriously life threatening living aboard, it is imperative that you evacuate the sailboat if you are docked at the marina at times of severe weather conditions. But if you are out on the sea then you can do a lot to stay safe. I wrote a useful article on this topic. Click here to check it out.

Unwanted Visitors

One of reasons why most sailors choose to live aboard is that they want to be closer to nature, that is definitely true when it comes to wildlife. While docked on the marina or out on the water, you will have some unwanted visitors such as ants, spiders, insects, lizards and cockroaches to mice, rats and cats, foxes and raccoons. Seals and otters love to sun bathe on the deck and enjoy last night’s leftovers as well. If you are safe from seals and otters you will definitely not be safe from sea gals and other sea birds. The solution is keeping your sailboat tidy and clean and leave no food or leftovers etc on the deck or in the cabin. 

Maintenance and Repairs

It is inevitable that your vessel will need maintenance and repairs at some point. It could be bottom painting or to repair a rusty part or otherwise treating mildew and mold that grow constantly in certain areas of your boat. One thing they all have in common is: they all come with high price tags. You want to stay on top of these repairs and maintenance as having a maintenance routine will save you a lot of money and headache in the long run.

Top 12 Best Sailboats To Live On

In this section we would like to share with you our findings (after a thorough research of the market) of 12 fantastic sailboats that could make a great home on water.

This very special boat was designed by Dean Wixom with the seaworthiness and crew safety in mind. In addition, it was built to be easily transportable (trailerable)from one place to another. 

This feature is very unique to this boat, there are not many vessels serving the same purpose.

Although, legally it is possible to transport this boat on the back of a trailer without any special permit, it needs a bigger than average trailer to transport it. 

Nor’Sea 27 comes with the quality, comfort, amenities and safety on the sea of a much greater vessels. Most models feature a fully galley including fridge/freezer, Double sink, a reasonably sized head and v-berth with an inbound engine and a cutaway full keel. This vessel is well known for its comfort and functionality.

Although she is available in both an aft-cockpit and center-cockpit layout, the centre cockpit is a more preferred option for many sailors. This option features an amazing aft cabin, with 4 beds and standing headroom throughout main areas in the cabin and a safe and protected cockpit. 

So all in all this beautiful and spacious boat features amenities which are very unique for its size. It comes with almost all the features you would expect on a liveable boat. For this reason it comes with a slightly higher price tag. Nor’See 27 pride itself on safety and seaworthiness. That makes this model one of the best liveaboard vessels that ticks many boxes.

The only issue that this boat has (although it is manageable) is having smaller water and fuel tank storage. We mentioned how important it is to have a bigger water and fuel tanks in this article, in case you missed that part click here to read our recommended water and fuel tank sizes and how to resolve this issue. Other than that Nor’Sea 27 is one of the best liveaboard sailboat out there in this price range that is very safe and comfortable.

A brand new Nor’Sea 27 will cost you around $130,000 depending on the features, however a good used Nor’Sea 27 could be found for approximately $45,000. 

Specification & Dimension

This is a great sail aboard sailboat which was first introduced in 1974 and since then it has been extraordinarily improved. This is a very popular vessel which is sold plentifully all over the world. 

It comes in 3 models: Mark I (1974 – 1986), Mark II (1986 – 1993) and the Mark III (1994 – 1997). So if you would go for an older model, be prepared to customise a lot to improve functionality. 

The founder and president Frank Butler has been quoted in many publications saying that his company goal was to provide its customers with “as much boat for the money as we can.” 

Catalina is believed to be one of the best all-around sailboats ever built, it is a reliable and robust fibreglass sailboat that has a low price point which provides a good option for many new sailors to enjoy sailing and living aboard. 

Cataline features a well thought and spacious cabin layout and has all the basic features that a 30 feet boat has to offer such as fully galley including ice box, a large double sink, a reasonably sized head and fully functioning navigation station which makes living on this very comfortable.

This beautiful boat has a wide beam, abundant storage space, and good ballast/displacement ratio in addition to a low sail area/displacement ratio which makes Catalina very stiff and therefore comfortable to sail.  

Size-for-size and feature-for-feature the Catalina 30 is tough to beat. Depending on the model, condition and specification of the boat, you can find a good one under $40,000.

There are many reason why we think Contessa 32 is the best live aboard sailboat relative to its size and price tag. This cruising and racing boat with proven blue water track record, is truly a reliable, versatile, comfortable and seaworthy vessel that is built to cater for any type of adventure including living aboard. 

Contessa 32 is considered by many as a British yachting icon. It was first built in 1971 and it is still produced but on customer order basis. Co32 comes with speed and stability that not only make a nice racing vessel but also a great accommodation or a live aboard sailboat for you and your crew.  

Due to the design of the hull and the shape of the keel it sails smoothly without slamming on the sea bed, making the journey very comfortable. It is a classic boat with lovely lines and it is just looking so pretty, accommodating for a maximum of 6, however if living aboard probably it will be suitable for a couple and 2 kids or 4 adults. 

Co32 features a small galley on the port side and a navigation table on the starboard. An aft quarter berth, a large salon settee with a beautiful wooden fold up dinette table in the middle that transforms into a cosy double berth at night. Additionally you have a single settee that can be used as berth to starboard, forward a head and v-berth with plenty of space and stowage compartments.

The sailboat makes excellent accommodation for  2-4 people with many amenities that are required to call it a sail-aboard home.   

Depending on the model, condition and specification of the boat, you can find a good used one for about $45,000.

The next sail aboard winner on our list is the 40 feet, Nordic 40. If you want to live aboard comfortably or with a larger family/crew then look no further. This American designed beauty was first built in 1978 and is generously spacious in its interior. 

That means plenty of storage space which is needed during longer crossings. This fine cruiser is initially designed as a race/cruiser, so when it comes to sailing performance that is unbeatable. Its deep draft fin keel provides for a superior windward capability. 

Nordic 40 comes with a fully insulated fiberglass hull throughout the interior, not only it will keep you warm during the cold winter nights but also to keep the condensation at bay.  

This beauty comes with a large fuel and water tank and plenty of storage spaces that will allow you to stock up for your longer crossings or to sail around the world.

Nordic features a reasonably large galley on the port side and a navigation table on the starboard. An aft cabin with 2x quarter berths, a large salon settee with a beautiful wooden fold up dinette table in the middle that transforms into a cosy double berth at night. Additionally you have a single settee that can be used as berth on the starboard side, forward a head and v-berth with plenty of space and stowage compartments, this comes very handy while living aboard simply because it is hard to live with some of the household items.

All in all Nordic 40 is hands down one of the best live aboard sailboats in its category that has a lot of potential for being a floating home.

Although there are not many Nordic built you will still be able to get hold of them for a market price of approx $135,000. 

Is the safety and a superb performance something that you are looking for in a liveaboard vessels? If the answer is yes, then Etap 37s is the sailboat for you. Etap 37 is an award winner certified (by Bureau Veritas) unsinkable boat with an outstanding performance.

Something interesting with this model is that in case of flooding in the boat while at sea, not only the boat will stay afloat but it will also allow the captain and crew members to continue stay aboard and sail towards safety. This is possible because a special foam is injected in between the hull and the lining which in turn acts not only as a floatation mechanism but also as a great insulation and sound dampening layer.

This Belgian beauty has a generously wide beam for loads of storage space as well as extended stability. We think this sailboat will make a great living space for medium sized families with excellent live aboard facilities .  

Ergonomic and well thought out beautiful teak wood in the setting areas and the cabin give this boat a luxurious look. This fine cruiser offers accommodation for 6 people, with a v-berth in the bow, an aft cabin double bed and two fairly large settees in the main cabin and comes with a head and shower. The galley offers a 2-burner stove and double sink and fridge/freezer etc. 

All these excellent amenities along side the safety and performance make it and excellent liveaboard sailboat.

Sure, this boat has positioned itself at the high end of the market when we compare this vessel with other models of the same size, but the price is still competitive enough to compete against the high quality design sailboats. 

Hunter was first introduced in 1977 and amazingly still being produced till today.  

This will make an outstanding live aboard sailboat because it is designed to provide you with more of a house feeling than a boat. The cabin features two fairly large settees in the main cabin, good standing height headroom and beautifully designed storage compartments. Standing headroom is a great advantage to have which offers you extra comfort while living aboard.

Hunter is well known for its stainless steel arch in the cockpit area which creates a really nice set up for short handed or single hand sailing,  and the extended cockpit area enjoys all the modern devices that a modern sailor needs. Additionally the Hunter comes with lots of room in the salon, cockpit area and it is very well ventilated and lit all throughout and it is easy to sail.

Hunter features a spacious u shape galley on the aft portside, a good size fridge and freezer, 2 burner stove with oven and a stainless steel sink. 

It also features a relatively spacious liveaboard accommodation for 6 people. Aft head compartment offers a large queen size berth with plenty of headroom and ventilation windows above. Just fore of that is the head and shower. 

The cabin has a large u-shaped salon seating area that transforms into a cosy double bed using the large dinette table which is located in the middle of the salon. Additionally you have a single settee on the starboard side and forward v-berth with plenty of space and stowage compartments.

The price ranges from $50,000 to $90,000 depending on the models and condition of the boat. 

Truly, Hunter has enormous potential for live-aboard sailors who are willing to forgo some aspects of luxurious amenities that other same sized makes do offer, for maximising storage spaces, especially when storage is such a crucial matter in longer ocean crossings.

Less luxury has also an added benefit that is: less maintenance. This performance cruiser offers great opportunities for new sailors or people on tighter budgets. 

Cal 34 (first produced in 1966) is considered a fairly light mid-sized sailboat for its material usage in early models. The basic model even is a very promising sail aboard boat. It comes with a spacious and basic interior, offering many standard features although it is lacking some luxury ones. 

The older models are acquired for approximately $20,000. If you decide to buy an older Cal 34 from the 70s, please note that a lot has changed in the sailing industry since then such as more efficient rigging, easier sail handling, efficient diesel engine, bigger water tank storage and more appealing interior design etc. All in all this is an excellent fairly priced live aboard option for couples and families.  

The I-36 was first introduced in the market in 1971, and the company built around 800 boats of this model before they ceased production in 1986. This model prides itself on speed, performance and ease of handling even in heavy air. 

Like Catalina this model makes an excellent live aboard option for couples or families without compromising any important amenities. 

The cabin features a large salon seating area that transforms into a cosy double bed using the large dinette table which is located in the middle of the salon. Additionally you have a single settee ( it can be used as a bed) on the starboard side, a aft quarter berth and forward v-berth with plenty of space and stowage compartments. 

I-36 features an enclosed head (flush toilet) and a shower which are very important amenities to have when living abroad. 

The L-shaped galley features a large stainless steel sink, a 3 burner stove and standard icebox that can be upgraded to a full refrigeration unit. 

The price ranges from $25,000 to $65,000 depending on the models and condition of the boat. 

All and all, a generously spacious living area alongside the master berth makes this model a very good option for exploring the world as well as living aboard all year round.

This 20-feet sailing boat is specifically built for blue water sailing and extended cruising. It differentiates herself from all other 20 to 27 feet live aboard boats by just being much larger for its size and class. Furthermore, it is a seaworthy and comfortable single handed boat and has a great strong structure yet small enough to be loaded on a trailer and transported easily to another location. 

The 20 feet world cruiser comes with the interior space of much larger boats, making it an awesome option to live aboard for a single or even couples.    

It was originally introduced to the market in 1972 and the production continued till late 90s. The company has built over 400 vessels over the period of 25 years. 

There are many reviews showing that many have crossed the oceans with this little sailboat even under heavy weather conditions. When it comes to size of the boat, one reviews mentioned that he felt that Flicka was more spacious than his previous 31 feet boat, that is without exaggeration.  

It is spacious enough to live in, with an excellent headroom and easy to handle. It sails beautifully although it is only 24′ 0″ ft long and it has a heavy displacement. 

This amazing vessel can accommodate 4 people and comes with many hatches and opening ports to keep your sail aboard home ventilated. 

Flicka features an aft quarter berth, a large salon settee that transforms into a cosy bed at night. Additionally you have a single settee (can be used as a bed) on the starboard side, and forward v-berth with plenty of space and stowage compartments. 

The galley is located amidships that includes stove/oven sink and icebox with hinged table for two. 

We have admit to that this vessel is one of the best live aboard sailboats in its size and price range.

Because this boat comes with quality, strength, safety and ease of handling, it is priced with a higher price tag of $25,000 to $45,000. 

Leopard 45 is a “Boat Of The Year” award winner in 2017. This luxurious live aboard vessel features a superb performance and build quality. It has a very well thought out, all rounded and practical layout through the entire boat.

Known for for sailing speed, comfort, safety, luxury and entertainment, this offers the best live aboard options in its price range. It is a firm favorite of liveaboards as well as charters alike. This model features a light, airy and luxurious interior. The living space overall is very accommodating for those of us who wants total comfort.

Leopard 45 comes with plenty of living, setting and entertainment spaces in the cockpit area that adds to your comfort and luxury and joy during the warmer days.

The interior features 3-4 cabins, a super large saloon, a fully equipped galley, plenty of entertainment area in the cockpit with 3 to 4 heads and showers.

She is so spacious and luxurious that you will not miss anything you had in your typical home while living aboard this beauty.

The price for a used one ranges from $200,000 to $810,000 depending on the models and condition of the vessel. 

Beneteau is a very popular and modern looking cruiser thanks to its sheltered cockpit, large deck space and a vast aft master cabins and it makes an excellent live aboard option.

The manufacturers built this boat with speed, safety, luxury and also comfort in mind. This model can be found in 2 or 4 cabin configuration. The 4 cabin options comes with 2 huge aft master cabins, two double berth forward each featuring a luxurious head, sink and shower and a single aft cabin accommodating 9 people for the larger option and 7 people with a 2 cabin configuration.

The aft master cabins feature queen size berths, a side bench seating area and lockers and cabinets and plenty of natural sun light. The designers have done a great job in paying close attention to every detail.

This live aboard cruiser has every amenity that you will need while living aboard. This is a truly master piece, featuring a really massive galley with fridge/freezer, four-burner gas stove and even a dishwasher.

The gorgeous saloon features a large u shape seating area with beautiful saloon, a large bench seat on the starboard side with its own table. It is worth to note that the saloon is filled with plenty of natural light coming from the ceiling and wall windows. The saloon is finished in beautiful cherry wood that gives it a super warm feeling.

The price is between $200,000 to $600,000 range for a good used Beneteau.

We chose this boat on our best liveaboard sailboat list because this model features a very solid structure that will allow you to build and upgrade upon if needed, in addition to that this vessel is very reasonably priced. 

This option is a well known cruiser which prides itself on the ease of sailing in any type of wind. 

The company first introduced Peterson 44 in 1976 and built only 200 of this model before they ceased production. From what we have gathered reading owner’s review they have nothing but good to say about its performance. 

This boat is very unique in having two enclosed heads and showers, one in forward and one in aft.  A full size U-shaped galley is positioned to the port. The galley comes with a large sink, a 3-burner stove, oven, fridge/freezer, good size countertop and plenty of storage in and around the galley. A large navigation station that is located to the starboard very close to the cockpit for easy access.

The main cabin features a large salon seating area that transforms into a cosy double bed using the large table. Additionally you have a single settee (can be used as a bed) on the starboard side, and forward v-berth with plenty of space and stowage compartments. This live aboard vessel features a gorgeous looking large aft master cabin with a head and shower, hanging closet, plentiful storage cabinet and private access to the cockpit. This amazing vessel can accommodate up to seven people and comes with many hatches and opening ports to keep your sail aboard home ventilated. 

The price for a good used Peterson 44 ranges from $60,000 to $110,000 depending on the models and condition of the boat. With all the amenities and above average quality it makes an excellent liveaboard option for slightly bigger families.

I know it has become a super lengthy and detailed post that takes some time to read through, but I wanted to make sure to create a complete guide including all the features to look out for and the elements to avoid when looking for a great sailboat to live on. 

When it comes to living aboard, there are many crucial elements that you don’t want to miss out as we have discussed these in great depth in this article. The tips and recommendation that we shared in this article will save your a lot of money and headache. 

This article has provided you with the knowledge how to identify a great sailboat, and how to choose your first sail aboard vessel and what makes a sailboat the best one for you.  

Our recommendation list of top 12 best boats will give you the best options out there, bear in mind that to buy a great sailboat, you might have to travel abroad to find the best options. All the best.

I am the owner of sailoradvice. I live in Birmingham, UK and love to sail with my wife and three boys throughout the year.

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7 Best Liveaboard Catamarans: Seaworthiness and Liveability!

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While sailing the Bahamas I lived on a 35ft monohull sailboat, this was an exciting time of my life but once I stepped on my first catamaran I knew “this is the way it’s supposed to be done”. After that, I have fallen in love with the space and speed of liveaboard catamaran,s so today I want to show you some of the best out there.

The best liveaboard catamaran sailboats include Manta 42, Dolphin Ocema 42, Bali 4.5, Privilege 435, Fountaine Pajot Saba 50, Voyage 580, and Lagoon 620. These catamarans offer plenty of space, load-carrying capability, and are very comfortable to live aboard.

This guide offers a starting point for your research into what catamaran you should get , today we will discuss:

• Best catamarans to live aboard: seaworthiness and liveability
• Important questions to ask yourself before shifting to a liveaboard lifestyle
• Pros and cons of living aboard
• Factors to consider when choosing a liveaboard cat

Are you a beginner with catamarans and don’t really know what models are good for beginners? Check this out!

Table of Contents

There are rarely more than a handful of Mantas on the market at any given time, this is due to the high demand, sailors love this brand and the Manta 42 is definitely not an exception. Only 127 sailing vessels were ever produced before Manta closed shop in 2008.

Manta 42 was selected as the Boat of the year in 2001 and has since attracted a good number of sailors seeking to jump on board because of its liveability and affordability, this dedication has also led to a comparatively strong online community, where owners share their experiences and tips&tricks.

The Manta 42 is one of the few really good bluewater capable boats under $300k. If the $300k pricetag is still to high, then here’s a list of the best cats under $200k .

Seaworthiness

The Manta 42 is set up with almost all controls at the cockpit, this allows for single-handed sailing if either part of the crew gets sick or you just want to spend some time alone out at sea.

Safety-wise, the cockpit has been made big and is well protected from the winds and spray that will kick up. A well-built cockpit that protects its crew is very important since crew fatigue is one of the greatest threats to the safety of a boat.

I could write about its construction features such as honeycombed reinforcement at stress points, but there’s really no need since the manta already has a fancy track record of sailing around the world that gives more value than just raw numbers.

Liveability

This specific model boasts spacious accommodation in which five people can comfortably sleep. In the port (left) hull is the owner’s suite fitted with modern facilities. It has a shower cubicle, a marine toilet (aka head), mirror, headroom, bookcases, and companionway pantry storage.

The owner’s suite/cabin also features a queen-size bed and a settee.

On the starboard(right) hull of this 42-foot cat is a VIP stateroom with a double berth in the aft and a guest stateroom with a queen-size bed in the forward. The guest cabins feature a shared bathroom, shower, swanstone sink, and marine toilet.

The galley (kitchen compartment) is inviting, with large counter space, drawers, and an integral trash bin. It also features a force ten propane four-burner stove and a large swanstone sink. The storage space here is adequate, with cabinets fitted above and below the galley.

The saloon (general living space) is fitted with a modern décor featuring an L-shaped settee, an adjustable dining table, a TV locker cabinet, and two ottomans. It is also fitted with AC heat units to create a comfortable living environment.

Dolphin Ocema 42

Dolphin Ocema 42 offers a good balance between performance and great cruising . It is designed and built in Brazil with a foam core for reduced weight throughout.

Finding information on this model is quite hard, there aren’t many around, and once they hit the market they are sold fairly quickly, except for the custom builds which always seem to take somewhat longer to sell.

Some Ocema 42s are fitted with daggerboards to enhance upwind performance, while others, unfortunately, have the bad reputation of being too heavily loaded once fully setup up for liveaboard cruising, hence impairing performance.

This is usually fixed by removing the big water tanks and rather using a water maker, together with removing the Genset (adding solar panels preferably) it seems to be enough to shed sufficient weight to get back to good sailing performance.

Ocema 42 is also an excellent liveaboard catamaran option that offers a large saloon with a kitchen fitted in its port hull. The kitchen features a fridge, freezer, sink, a four-burner stove, and storage drawers.

Its interiors are made of laminated wood combined with fiberglass and epoxy to give a more defined look.

It has four cabins with four berths and two heads. Also, it has two complete bathrooms with a hot water system and electric toilets.

Additionally, this catamaran has plenty of storage space offered by its louvered lockers. Dolphin Ocema 42 also boasts a well-fitted air conditioning system for increased comfort.

The Bali company is owned by the Catana Group, famous for building some of the best-performing bluewater catamarans out there. Although there is a cooperation between the two brands there are not a lot of similarities, this boat is perfectly adapted to coastal and charter rather than hardcore offshore sailing.

The “open layout” with flybdrigde and high boom doesn’t really do well with offshore passagemaking, this is worth discussing in further detail.

The Bali 4.5 Open has a flybridge just like many motorboats, but since this is a sailboat that means the boom needs to be moved upwards to accommodate the heightened position of the cockpit.

This is of course not all bad, it’s perfect for visibility and docking, but horrible for bad weather since it is unprotected. It is also worth mentioning that this reduces sail area and moves the center of effort up, which impacts performance negatively.

Another interesting feature is that the engines can only be controlled from the flybridge.

Together with the self-tacking jib the Bali 4.5 is a great boat as long as you use it in the way it’s made for, coastal sailing.

This series of Bail 4.5 catamarans is well designed to meet the needs of liveaboards. It has modern interiors and easy-to-clean surfaces.

Its starboard features a side-by-side refrigerator with an efficient ice maker for a more homely feeling. Additionally, its port houses a galley fitted with an ENO cooktop and a separate oven at eye level for easier and more convenient cooking. It also has a double sink, a large countertop, and ample storage space.

There is a lot of electronics on this boat but the solar system is only on 400w (a microwave owen is 1000w) so be prepared to run the genset.

Most interior items are touch screen controlled, including the modern water maker and the Genset.

Along the port hull of this 45-foot cat is the owner’s cabin. It features an oversized shower, a wide berth, plenty of hanging and storage space, and a separate head, sofa, and desk.

The owner’s cabin has a privacy door that separates it from the rest of the cat.

On the other hand, the starboard hull has two cabins, a shared shower, and two heads. This catamaran boat boasts of its efficient lighting, storage, and ventilation, making it more accommodating.

Not only is the Bali 4.5 one of the best to look at, but it is probably one of the top five to live aboard.

Privilege 435

Something all too common on “condomarans” is a bridge deck clearance that is too small (this is the distance between the water and the underside of the boat, between the hulls). Insufficient clearance will increase something called bridge deck slamming, when water bashes into the bridge deck and not only creates awful noises but also puts some extra tear and wear on the boat and crew.

The bridge deck clearance on this privilege is probably one of the highest in its class.

The performance under sail of a privilege 435 is nothing to write home about, but the buildquality might be, this cat is known for its high level craftmanship and sturdy structure making it a safe and easy to handle cat during ocean crossings.

According to a sailor that circumnavigated without any light-wind sails, this boat can average about 8kts over long ocean crossings. Spending some dollars on a spinnaker and you’ll probably add a knot or two.

Compared to its French sisters and brothers (lagoon, FP, etc) you will have to pay a little more.

If interior design and perfect finish is your fetish, then this is probably the boat for you, It comes with meticulous details that make this boat stand out among other catamarans.

Which I must admit isn’t always a hard competition to win compared to the many shaky interiors in the business.

Privilege 435 boasts a lavish interior décor that you can customize as per your tastes and preferences. It has a spacious galley with modern kitchen equipment such as an espresso coffee machine, toaster, bread maker, and yogurt maker. Additionally, it has a gas stove with three gas burners and a double stainless-steel sink.

For increased accommodation, it has four cabins, four bathrooms, two heads, and three showers. The cabins have four queen size beds and one double bed. It also has a washing machine for your laundry.

The lighting, ventilation, and storage are ample in this catamaran.

Fountaine Pajot Saba 50

When it comes to being safe at sea, longer is most often safer. This means that when designing a boat as long as 50ft you can get away with some design decisions that would have been devastating on a 35 -40ft boat. Such as the flybridge and up top helm position, as we discussed with the Bali 4.5 this is not how you would design a boat for performance or safety. But considering its size, this is less of an issue than it is for its smaller competitor the Bali 4.5.

The Saba 50 comes as a result of the experiences that FP had with its little sister the Salina 48. The goal was to make the Salina 48 more comfortable while still maintaining performance. Something that the magazine multihulls world would agree that they did.

“A new model fulfilling the wishes of yachtsmen looking for comfort, as much on deck as below. However, performance has not been neglected, and that’s even better! “ Multihulls World Magazine Test Saba 50

The Saba 50 employs stub keels instead of daggerboards, this has its advantages of being easier to operate and therefore less chance of breaking something or making a wrong call when to lower or raise them. But with the disadvantages of not being able to go as close to the wind and possibly lose some downwind speed due to drag.

Although this is the case, in theory, the saba 50 design team seems to have found a good balance, and the cat performs better than expected upwind:

“…but here was a large—and I mean large—cruising cat doing 6 to 9 knots with the wind ahead of the beam .” Sailmagazine.com Test Saba 50

Fountaine Pajot Saba 50 boasts extensive liveability and comfort. It can carry an almost infinite amount of people during a day sail but can only accommodate approximately 10-night occupants in its either 4 or 6 cabin layout .

It offers plenty of space on the cockpit seattees, the large transom seat, between the sun pads on the bow and the flybridge lounge. People can relax here without feeling crowded.

The catamaran comes in two versions, the Maestro and the Quintet.

The maestro model features 1 private suite with an exclusive bathroom, and three guest cabins, each with its bathrooms as well. So if having a separate wash area for your guest is high on your list of priorities, well then this boat won’t let you down.

On the other hand, the Quintet version offers 5 double cabins one skipper’s cabin, and 6 bathrooms (I am still unsure of what I think of this love for bathrooms everywhere). This boat is aimed at the charter market hence the skipper’s cabin.

This catamaran also boasts luxurious interiors with four large cabins, four heads, and four double berths . Its dinette is on the cockpit’s far end, while the saloon features only a lounging settee.

The galley has a microwave, oven, gas burner, and freshwater maker, among other basic kitchen essentials.

The better-than-average performance, exceptional liveability, and comfort derived from this cat make it a highly-priced piece in the sailing market .

One sometimes forgotten aspect of bluewater sailing is the ease with which things can be fixed. I am talking about access to engines, the difficulty of finding parts, and how complex the various systems are. No matter what adventure you are on, the possibility to repair or maintain in far-out places is essential.

This is where the Voyage 580 excels:

“Voyage has kept this [Model] as mechanically and electrically simple as possible.” Cruising World Boat Resource Guide

It is also worth mentioning that the 580 stems from the smaller Voyage 440, a boat that won the Cruising Worlds “Boat of The Year” award in 2002. Not only did voyage keep what was good with the 440, but they also innovated and actually made an even better boat according to the Multihulls World test.

Correctly outfitted and with a knowledgeable crew this boat will get you anywhere you want to go!

Voyage 580 catamarans are huge with a lot of living space and are also pricey, you will have to pay +$600k to get yourself an older model. They boast luxuriously designed interiors using premium modern materials.

A voyage 580 catamaran has a spacious galley fitted with modern kitchen facilities. The kitchenette has a full-sized fridge, a large induction cooktop, a deep freezer, a freshwater maker, and two electric ovens.

Its saloon is cozy, inviting, and accommodating, with ample lighting and air conditioning. It is a perfect space to relax, read, or watch a movie. The dining area is also well prepared with glossy seats that can accommodate 8-10 guests in a single sitting.

For accommodation, it has two spacious cabins, four heads, and three double berths.

Lagoon 630/620

The L620 is created by the famous naval designer Van Peteghem Lauriot Prévost , or VPLP for short, this is worth mentioning since the company has won more awards than any other designer studio in the catamaran industry.

At 62ft this cat is so big that the criteria for seaworthiness start to shift, at this size most weather is safe as long as you have powerful enough engines to get you out of a bad situation in case your primary motor, the sails, for some reason stop functioning.

A sailboat of this size also requires a somewhat different skilled sailor to safely be sailed.

Even though this cat has the option of dual helm stations it can still be very hard to dock a boat with the windage of a small suburb. Especially if the wind picks up.

At this size it is probably only a handful of people that can single-handedly sail this beast, most would need a crew of at least three. And according to a study I did a while back, 46% answered that anything larger than 40ft and it becomes difficult to solo (you can find the post here ).

Lagoon 620 (or the powerboat version 630) is another highly appreciated liveaboard catamaran. Although it is pricey (~USD 2 000 000), this large catamaran offers exceptional liveability, comfortability, and convenience. It is highly accommodative, featuring four suites, a galley, and a large saloon.

And per a conversation with a sailor of the 620, the interior finish is much better than what is usually found on smaller/cheaper Lagoon boats.

Its port side hull is a fully equipped modern kitchen followed by a suite containing two bunk beds, a complete bathroom, and some cupboards. The bow is another suite with a raised double bed, ample storage space, and a complete bathroom.

Again, on the starboard side is another suite with a raised double bed, a complete bathroom, and a storage area. The fourth cabin is the owner’s suite located at the stern. It has a comfortable double bed, closets, a sofa, a private area, and a complete bathroom. Generally, this cat has four cabins, four bathrooms, four heads, three double baths, and two single berths.

The catamaran boats above are just a glimpse of what the sailing market has to offer concerning liveaboard catamarans. Depending on your budget and your needs, you may get a new or used catamaran. Most used catamarans are still in good working conditions and are more affordable if you have a tight budget.

Interested in a cat under $200k? Here is my list of the 12 best!

What To Consider Before Moving Aboard

Before shifting from your spacious apartment to a catamaran, here are a few questions you need to ask yourself:

Will It Be Cheaper to Live on a Boat Than on Land?

Living on a catamaran can be cheaper depending on its size, price, and additional costs. You’ll likely save on rent, water, gas, and electricity as you will not be lighting, heating, or cooling a big apartment room.

However, your maintenance costs are likely to rise. You will also incur additional expenses such as slip fees, insurance, and boat mortgage fee.

Therefore, don’t just assume that you will save by moving aboard. Do the maths, and make your decision based on facts.

Will Life Be Simpler?

Simplicity here depends on how your typical day or week looks. By living aboard, you may need to go grocery shopping frequently due to insufficient storage space. You may also need to rush to the post office to get your deliveries more often. This means plenty of back-and-forth movements.

If you want a simpler life aboard, it is advisable to run your typical day through your mind first. By doing this, you will be able to find solutions to the wanting issues.

If you plan on doing your maintenance, then life will not be easier from that perspective;

“ Sailing in the Caribbean as a liveaboard; one thing that really surprised me was how incredibly much time I would have to spend on maintenance and repairs! “

What About the Storage Space on a Catamaran?

Although some cats are large, their storage space does not equate to that of most apartments. Be prepared to forego some items such as kitchen equipment, utensils, and clothes. The kitchen space, lockers, cupboards, and wardrobes will be much smaller. Therefore, you’ll need to declutter and move in with only the essentials.

If it doesn’t serve at least two purposes, don’t bring it along! Life/boat lesson learned

What About Comfort and Connectivity?

You can tailor the interiors of your cat to suit your taste and preferences. Your cat should be dry, well ventilated, and have adequate lighting and air conditioning for increased comfort.

For connectivity, you can install a satellite receiver for TV or internet access. You do not want to be cut off from your family and friends when aboard. Choosing a satellite reception instead of the usual mobile phone network allows you to stay updated no matter where in the world you are!

I really like the Google Fi plan (mobile network) for connectivity near land ( link here ), it’s easy, works almost all over the planet, and is reasonably cheap. Whilst in the middle of nowhere I use the Garmin Inreach mini(satellite, Amazon link here ) to send emails and get weather, it’s a good device but nothing fancy.

Will It Be Safe and Secure To Live Aboard?

Safety and security will depend on the marina. The security in most marinas is usually really good although, as always, it’s good to be a little streetsmart and lock your vessel when you leave.

For safety, be sure to install fire extinguishers, carbon monoxide, and smoke detector alarms. You can also install gas and propane sniffers. If you live with kids and pets, check the above deck space to ensure it’s safe for them.

Since a cat is basically a floating apartment you can install the same type of security that you would on land, cameras, etc.

Can I Move Aboard My Boat if I Have a Slip?

A slip (a boat parking space enclosed by three sides) is not enough to guarantee life aboard. For most marinas, you’ll need to submit an application for you to move aboard. Most of them have long waiting lists, while others don’t allow life aboard. Ensure you understand the needs of your target marina before commencing your plans.

Most often you are allowed to stay a night or two, but long-term stay is frowned upon.

I have compiled a few lists of liveaboard friendly marinas depending on where you are:

• 9 Best Liveboard marinas in Florida
• Best liveaboard marinas in Australia

Pros of Living Aboard a Catamaran

Below are some of the advantages you get by living on a catamaran.

• Economical: Life on a catamaran can be cheaper than the skyrocketing housing prices in major cities. However, you shouldn’t base this only on the cat’s cost. It is important to consider other charges such as marina fees, insurance, state tax, and maintenance fees.
• Lifestyle: You get to experience a peaceful and exciting lifestyle away from crowded cities. Here you’ll get plenty of fresh air and a chance to explore the beautiful coastal or sea waters. If you need some solo time away from the daily hustles and bustles of life, this is the ideal lifestyle for you.
• Social life and community: Depending on the marina and area you live in, you meet and interact with like-minded people. You also get an opportunity to create social networks with a larger community of liveaboards. Additionally, you get to share ideas and learn more from your newly created community. This idea of community life is what draws many sailors to live aboard.
• Connecting with nature: Living aboard a catamaran gives you a chance to connect with nature. You wake up to beautiful views of the water and the peaceful hummings of sea birds. You also view the sunset from the comfort of your cat as you enjoy the calm sea breeze. If you are a nature lover, you’ll enjoy this special connection with nature.
• Adventure: Living on a catamaran means you are a step closer to plenty of adventurous days. You have the opportunity to explore the waters anytime you feel like it. You get to learn a new skill and make discoveries with each passing day.

Cons of Living on a Catamaran

Living aboard has several setbacks, which include:

• High maintenance costs: Unlike standard brick and mortar houses, catamaran boats are prone to damage by water, weather, and microorganisms. They are likely to corrode and rust, which calls for regular maintenance. The maintenance costs of a catamaran may be high compared to those of a standard apartment.
• Safety: Some marinas and anchorages are not safe enough. Additionally, others are filled with dirty water and littered with waste materials. As a result, they are not pleasing to live in.
• Practicalities: The space within most catamarans is limited. The limitations mean you’ll have to adjust your way of doing things such as disposing of waste and cooking to fit into your new lifestyle. Not everyone can fit into this lifestyle. If for you, the advantages of living aboard a catamaran outweigh the drawbacks, then you’re well placed to start your life aboard. 

With that, let’s look at the factors to consider in choosing the best catamaran boat to live on.

Features of the Best Liveaboard Catamaran

Here are the factors you should look for when getting a liveaboard cat:

• Space: Although the living space in catamarans is limited compared to that of an apartment, it should be enough to accommodate your needs. Your ideal cat’s space will depend on the projected number of people. It should be enough for everyone aboard without feeling congested or crowded. Having your own space is very important in the long run.
• Standing headroom: Standing headroom refers to the space available for you to stand in a cabin. Although some sailors live in cats without a standing headroom, it is not good for their general well-being. You don’t always want to crouch or crawl during your stay aboard. Sooner or later, your back will start experiencing problems. To avoid such health issues, get a cat with a standing headroom of at least 5-feet 10-inch (5’10”).
• Electric lighting: Although the use of kerosene lamps has basically disappeared, except for the enhancing cozy-factor. Consider getting a cat with LED lighting for reliability and low maintenance. Most modern sailing cats have solar panels for an efficient electric power supply.
• Ventilation: Your liveaboard boat should be adequately ventilated. It should have openings to let in fresh air without necessitating you to open the main hatch.
• 120VAC: Since electricity is vital when living aboard, your cat should have a reliable power source. Consider one with a 120VAC (or 230v for Europeans) where you can charge your phone, computer, and other electronic devices. Unless you’re getting a very old cat this is standard.
• Toilet and plumbing: Sanitation is extra necessary when living aboard, therefore when looking for a cat, get one with a well-fitted head (toilet) and an efficient plumbing system for safe waste disposal. It should encompass a holding tank so that you can use the head when parked in a marina.
• Kitchen facilities: Most cats have a galley but make sure it fits your needs, maybe you love to cook, and therefore you have special preferences for the setup.

When I’m looking to buy something as expensive as a cat I create a Need vs Nice spreadsheet where I track all the most important factors to make sure I don’t miss something, if you want to access this sheet all you need to do is either send me an email or sign up for the newsletter.

Interested in sailing characteristics and catamaran stability? Read this!

Here are Some of My Favorite Catamaran Cruising Resources

Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful as you hopefully start your sailing adventures. Here are some resources that I use as a sailor that I hope you’ll also find helpful. These are affiliate links, so if you do decide to use any of them, I’ll earn a commission. But in all honesty, these are the exact things that I use and recommend to everyone, even my own family. Sailboats: If you’re looking for the best boat to suit your needs, I would recommend a catamaran. If you’re interested, I can show you the differences between catamarans and other types of sailboats .

Books:  For getting started, I really like  Cruising catamarans made easy . It is actually a textbook from the American sailing association; it is used to get a cruising catamaran certification. There are some other great books, and I have compiled a list of books about cruising catamarans that you will find useful.

Communication:  Being out on adventures, whether it be sailing or climbing mountains, good communications are essential to being safe. I recommend two things Google fi (incredibly simple cellular data all over the world) and Garmin inreach mini (for text and voice in remote areas without cell coverage)

Sailing courses: Online sailing courses are great for beginners starting out their sailing career; it’s an efficient way of learning the basics of navigation, throttle controls, and maritime safety. I suggest starting with two free courses from NauticEd .

To see all my most up-to-date recommendations,  check out this resource  that I made for you!

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

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10 Best Sailboats To Live In

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 28, 2023

Living aboard a sailboat is an exciting lifestyle choice, but there are lots of considerations you’ll need to make.

‍ First and foremost, you have to pick a boat to live in. Unless you plan on sleeping under a canvas tarp, it’s essential to find a sailboat with a proper cabin.

Cabin sailboats became common in the United States during the early 20th century, but size and amenities vary widely between boats.  

For example, early wooden sailboats generally featured very sparse accommodations below, typically consisting of a pipe berth, oil lamps, a coal-fired stove and a bucket privy—typically without standing headroom.

Fortunately, the majority of cabin sailboats came with a lot more than a bucket to wash with.

In this article, we’ll go over some of the most important considerations to make when choosing a sailboat to live on . After, we’ll give a top-ten list of the best used liveaboard sailboats you can buy today.

Table of contents

Why Live Aboard a Sailboat?

Thousands of people choose to live aboard their sailboats.  It’s an alternative lifestyle with a host of benefits for those willing to deal with the added challenges.  

Liveaboards can move their entire house on the water, and it’s typically cheaper to live on a boat than in a traditional house.

This is especially true in major waterfront cities, where rent in the same area as the marina can be several times more expensive.  

Some people love the marina lifestyle, and others travel the world.  All-in-all, living aboard a sailboat can be a rewarding, enriching, and financially-freeing lifestyle choice.

What to Consider when Buying a Liveaboard Sailboat

The most important thing to consider when buying a liveaboard sailboat is what level of accommodation you need.

Some people aren’t bothered by limited amenities; in fact, many traditional sailors prefer a stripped-down and basic sailboat interior. However, many others appreciate useful features such as electric toilets and a full galley.

You can find virtually every creature comfort on board a modern sailboat, so it’s up to you to decide what level of convenience you expect. ‍

For most people, a standard cruising sailboat interior from after 1970 will suffice, as these typically include a usable galley, shower, head, and ventilation.

Offshore VS Coastal Cruising Accommodations

Sailboat interior design is dependent on certain criteria, such as the sailboat’s intended use. Long-distance cruising sailboats have cabins arranged to suit such a journey.

Long-distance sailboats usually remove any unnecessary furniture or extras down below to increase storage, and sleeping options are altered to ensure easy access, which allows the crew to regain control of the boat in a pinch.

Coastal cruisers tend to feature a more luxurious layout, with larger sofas and more complex interior features. Additionally, storage space is generally reduced to allow for the inclusion of other amenities.

Whichever style you choose should reflect both how you plan to use your boat and what level of comfort you need.

What Makes A Great Liveaboard Sailboat?

For this article, we’ve outlined a few requirements which we believe identify an excellent liveaboard sailboat :

• Standing headroom (at least 5’10”)

While many people live aboard boats without standing headroom, it’s still a nice feature to have.  Months or years spent crawling or crouching can wreak havoc on your back and body, so standing headroom is a necessity in this list.

• 120V AC availability

Electricity is a definite requirement for our liveaboard list.  Boats without 120V AC outlets present major challenges to liveaboards, as there’s no way to charge most computers or cell phones.  Some boats feature a 12V outlet, but full-time liveaboard boats should have standard house connections for electricity.

• Galley facilities

Unless you plan on eating out every day, a galley is a must for our list.  We define an adequate galley as a facility with a sink, ice box or refrigerator, and a stove.  An oven is an added bonus, but one can usually be added along with a new stove.

• Electric lighting

Electric lighting is a matter of both safety and convenience aboard boats.  There’s nothing wrong with kerosene lamps; many sailors adorn their boats with them.  However, a long-term liveaboard boat should feature safe and reliable electric lighting.

• Toilet with plumbing

Sanitation facilities are vital on board a sailboat, especially if you live on it.  Improper human waste storage and disposal will spread awful diseases.  Plus, nobody wants to live on a stinky boat or use a porta-potty all year long.  We required each of our ten boats to have built-in and properly outfitted toilets, plus safe storage tanks for pumping out later.

Bathing facilities are also a must on most liveaboard sailboats.  However, many liveaboards opt not to use their on-board showers in favor of marina or gym facilities.  That being said, it is very convenient to have a shower on your boat.  Keep in mind, some boat showers drain directly into the bilge.  If you use your onboard shower, be sure to keep the bilge pump in working order and remember that anything you put in the drain ends up below your floor.

• Separate seating spaces

We think a liveaboard sailboat should have extra sitting spaces on board, apart from the main bed.  A place for sitting, eating, working, and navigating is essential when living aboard long-term, and the added convenience of a separate space will make day-to-day activities much more enjoyable.

• Ventilation

Last but not least, we believe ventilation is essential for any liveaboard sailboat.  This is the simplest of requirements, as a passive solar roof vent or opening porthole should be sufficient.  In short, there should be a way to let fresh air in without opening a main hatch.

Top 10 Liveaboard Sailboats

Here’s a list of the top ten liveaboard sailboats that you can purchase used today.

These are in no particular order, but each boat meets or exceeds the requirements of a great liveaboard sailboat.

Remember, the features listed for each of these boats could vary based on age or trim, so be sure to check back to this list when inspecting a boat.

Without further ado, here’s ten of the greatest liveaboard sailboats ever produced.

1. Catalina 30

{{boat-info="/boats/catalina-30"}}

The Catalina 30 is one of the most common production cruising sailboats ever.

Thousands of these reliable and robust fiberglass boats still sail, despite the fact that they first entered the market in 1972.

This 30-foot boat features a modern and spacious interior, with all the accommodations you’d expect on a boat its size.

Most models feature a large and useful galley, along with running water supplied by electric pumps.

The Catalina 30 also featured a ‘suite’ layout, with a master bedroom V-Berth closed off to the rest of the cabin by a door.

An enclosed shower and head make it a pleasant boat to live on.

The layout of the Catalina 30 also featured a dinette, which serves as an excellent chart table or workspace as well.

2. Islander 36

{{boat-info="/boats/islander-36"}}

The Islander 36 is a well-rounded liveaboard sailboat which also has impressive cruising capabilities.

While manufacturing ceased in the 1980s, the I-36 was the company’s best-selling model with nearly a thousand built.

Islander boats are known for some well-adorned cabins, and many featured elegant wooden interior trim.

Like the Catalina 30, the Islander 36 includes an enclosed head with a shower and flush toilet.

The interior layout of the I-36 is spacious and well-designed, featuring a long port and starboard settee which folds out into a double-berth for sleeping.

An enclosed shower and spacious master berth make it a very well-rounded option for cruising and living aboard.

3. Contessa 32

{{boat-info="/boats/contessa-32"}}

Contessa Yachts produced their venerable 32-foot cruising and racing sailboat from 1970 until 1990, but custom boatbuilders still manufacture the yacht today.

It’s well-known for cruising capabilities, but it has a lot to offer as a liveaboard as well.

The traditional cabin is thoughtfully designed, featuring a fold-up table in the center of the cabin floor.

The spatially conscious design of the Contessa 32 makes it an excellent option for the no-frills and organized sailor.

This vessel features a separate master bedroom, along with a head and shower in the hallway between the compartments.

4. Pearson 34

{{boat-info="/boats/pearson-34"}}

Pearson produced their excellent 34-foot sailboat during the 1980s. This medium-sized cruising yacht features an extremely spacious interior with plenty of floor space to move around.

The layout is complex, but not overwhelming. The galley nook is functional and features convenient overhead storage for utensils giving it a ‘home-y’ feeling.

The head is enclosed and spacious, including a bathroom sink and mirror.

The separate master bedroom is also enclosed with ample clothing storage throughout.

Out of all the boats listed so far, the Pearson 34 should feel most like a traditional living space to most people.

If the Pearson 34 seems a little too compact, be sure to read on and check out the next two boats on the list.

5. Nordic 40

{{boat-info="/boats/nordic-40"}}

So far the largest boat on our list, the Nordic 40 is a super-capable offshore cruiser with excellent liveaboard facilities.

This relatively rare boat features an extremely spacious interior, which is more than ample for a couple to live comfortably.

Standing headroom throughout, a spacious master bedroom, along with a nearly full galley allows for superbly comfortable living in any climate or region.

The extra storage aboard makes remote living possible, so owners can anchor out for weeks or months at a time with enough provisions to last.

While this boat isn’t very common, it’s still worth keeping an eye out for it while searching for a liveaboard sailboat .

6. Peterson 44

{{boat-info="/boats/kelly-peterson-44"}}

The Peterson 44 is what’s known as a ‘center-cockpit cruiser,’ featuring a split-cabin both fore and aft.

This spacious interior layout maximizes living space without decreasing sailing capabilities.

The boat features a master bedroom and bathroom, along with another cabin, berth, and head behind the cockpit.

In addition to two bathrooms, it features a full galley, booth dinette, and settee.

All these extras combined with excellent storage make it an excellent liveaboard option.

Pearson is well-renowned for building excellent boats, and their interior quality is above average.

7. Nor’Sea 27

{{boat-info="/boats/norsea-27"}}

The Nor’Sea 27 is a classic compact sailboat, which is ideal for minimalist or single people living aboard.

The interior is surprisingly spacious for its size, featuring all the amenities you’d expect on a larger boat.

This beautiful little boat likely mimics the comfort of a Catalina 30, and should cost less in slip fees.

The interior features a toilet, shower, and galley.

The forward berth converts into a dinette but features two other bunks underneath the cockpit.

Production of the Nor’Sea 27 began in 1976, and it’s still produced today.

And the best part—you can legally tow it on a trailer. It’s arguably the ultimate compact cruiser/liveaboard available today.

{{boat-info="/boats/cal-34"}}

The Cal 34 is very typical of mid-range sailboats of the 1970s. Produced between 1968 and 1975, this basic but comfortable yacht has a lot of potential as a liveaboard.

The interior is simple and spacious, without much luxury or adorning. However, less features make for less maintnence, and everything you’d need is available in the Cal 34.

A master bedroom, shower, and toilet are all standard, along with a well-arranged galley and comfortable sitting area.

The boat features ample storage for clothes, food, and gear.

All mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems aboard are easy to maintain, plus the cabin is well-designed.

9. Catalina 38

{{boat-info="/boats/catalina-38"}}

Another classic Catalina sailboat makes the list, with a well-thought-out interior that’s spacious enough for a couple to live comfortably.

Catalina produced their 38-foot sloop between 1977 and 1990, and it came standard with many excellent liveaboard features such as electrical outlets throughout the cabin.

Also, the head is spacious and includes a sink, which is always very convenient.

With plenty of places to sleep, there’s no need to fold away the galley table to get some rest.

The Catalina 38 is another fantastic mid-sized sailboat for living aboard, especially if you aren’t quite comfortable inside a Catalina 30.

10. Hunter 33

{{boat-info="/boats/hunter-33"}}

The last boat on our list is also one of the longest-lived in its category. Hunter produced their 33-foot sailboat starting in 1977, and it’s still in production today.

This handy mid-sized boat features excellent interior accommodations, with plenty of sitting and sleeping areas to choose from.

In addition to a full dinette, it features a toilet and shower aft away from the master bedroom.  Such an arrangement is a great option for sailors, as it allows the use of the head without moving too far away from the controls.

Standing headroom throughout the long cabin makes for a very comfortable long-term living arrangement.

The galley has plenty of storage space and the L-shaped layout allows for easy and efficient use.

At the end of the day, you’ll get to choose the liveaboard sailboat that works best for you. Check out some of the boats we mentioned and get an idea of what they offer.

Use this list to help identify features that you need, and perhaps avoid features that you don’t want.

When it comes to living aboard, there’s a lot more to consider than just your boat. As long as the boat you choose is in good condition, you’ll likely end up falling in love with it.

Either way, consider these top-ten liveaboard sailboats when you’re on the hunt for your boat.

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Best Liveaboard Boats (Best Boats to Live On)

The thing about boating is that you don't take it up as a hobby unless you're 100% committed. Once you take that leap, you'll find that boating will quickly become the core of your being. For some people, it even becomes a way of life. And so we have live aboard boats.

Living on a boat might seem like a crazy idea. But liveaboard boat designs have made that lake-top lifestyle a convenient reality. So if you're ready to take your family to the water, here's a list of the best liveaboard boats money can buy.

1. Catamarans

The double hull catamaran makes living aboard a watercraft easy and effortless. Designed with two hulls, these boats tout two-bedroom style floorplans that provide enough room for most families.

And while conditions can get a little crowded under the deck, catamarans offer lots of deck space. Complete with a galley for all of your cooking needs, catamarans are often some of the best selling live aboard boats you'll find on the market today.

Best Picks in the Liveaboard Catamarans Category: 

• Nautitech 44

2. Triple Hull Catamarans

The trimaran is essentially a catamaran with three hulls, as its name so obviously suggests. Unlike the double hull catamaran, triple hull catamarans might not use the hull as actual living spaces. Although there are some models that try to make that stretch.

Nevertheless, the three hull designs come with much wider beam spans, allowing more space on the deck and aft. They're also impressively stable even in relatively choppy conditions. So you can enjoy a peaceful night's sleep even as the waves toss and tumble just outside.

Best Picks in the Liveaboard Trimarans Category:

• Dragonfly 1200

3. Sailboats

Although they might seem a little unstable, sailboats make the best liveaboard boats for usually tethered, moored conditions. The sailboat is great if you plan to live close to the dock and if you only need the boat part of its function when you need to get around to a neighboring marina or shore.

Lots of sailboats also come with an engine and motor so you can still cruise around even when the weather doesn't seem to want to cooperate. Sailboats also have a highly customizable layout, letting you replicate actual home interior designs to make your stay a little more comfortable.

Best Picks in the Liveaboard Sailboats Category:

• Catalina 25 Sailboat
• Aloha 28 Sailboat

When considering the best boats to live on, the yacht is often the first type of watercraft that comes to mind. Considered the ultimate luxury pleasure craft, the yacht offers a full range of features and amenities to guarantee comfortable living on its wide beam.

Sure, motor yacht and aft cabin designs are worth a ton of money and maintenance is going to cost just as much. But if you want plush, hotel-style living, then a yacht cruiser would be the way to go. The yacht can come equipped with media rooms, buffet facilities, and even built-in pools that can make any land lubber reconsider their choices.

Best Picks in the Liveaboard Yachts Category:

• Prestige M48 Yacht
• Maritimo M75 Sailboats

See some more of the best liveabord yachts in our guide.

5. Trawlers

Typically used as fishing boats, trawlers might tout a slow forward cruising speed, but they're exceptionally effective at long distance travel. So if you were hoping to mix some adventure with your brand new water-top lifestyle, then a trawler's cruising speed might be help you achieve just that.

These massive vessel comes with loads of deck room that you can customize to match your unique preferences. Complete with a galley, staterooms, lots of storage, and even shower and headroom, the spacious trawler cruiser makes an ideal choice for families with lots of members who plan to live on the high seas full time.

Best Picks in the Liveaboard Trawlers Category:

• Krogen 44AE

6. House Boats

As you might glean from the name, a house boat is essentially a house on water. They're not exactly designed to move so they don't have any sort of motor or even a cockpit. These boats sit on the water and remain moored for the duration of its usable lifespan. A houseboat will also often have a living space that closely replicates the interior layout of a typical house with a master stateroom, a complete headroom, and a kitchen.

You might think that living aboard a houseboat kind of defeats the purpose of lake-top lifestyle because the structure can't move you around. But because houseboats are often cheaper than conventional homes, they make a good choice for families who prefer living a stone's toss away from the fun and excitement on the lake.

Best Picks in the Houseboats Category:

• Stardust Cruisers Houseboat
• Gibson Cabin Yacht 5000

7. Sports Fishing Boats

Sports fishing boats can look like yachts, and may even have amenities that resemble that of the luxury boat. They're equipped with loads of deck space, an enclosed cabin, and comfortable interiors that make living on the water a dream.

Unlike trawlers that take their sweet time, sports fishing boats can travel much faster than other boats on this list. They're also fully equipped with all of the features you would need as an angler, so you could say that living aboard a sports fishing boat can have you sustaining yourself quite well.

Best Picks in the Liveaboard Sports Fishing Boats Category:

• Mikelson 75 SF
• Boston Whaler 280 Outrage

What to Look for When Buying the Best Liveaboard Boat

Moving from a conventional home to a liveaboard boat is a big change. So before you make any rash decisions, you have to consider all of the intricacies. Here's all of the nitty gritty you'll have to think about before you take the leap.

Type of Boat

Obviously, every different boat option listed here delivers a different experience. Think about your specific preferences. What would you want to be able to do while staying on a boat? Or what kind of activities were you hoping to enjoy on the water? These questions should lead you to the right boat model.

If you were hoping to travel, then a trawler, yacht, or sport fishing boat would be best for you. These liveaboards were designed either for speed or distance performance. For boaters who only want to get cruising within a relatively limited area or marina, the sailboat or catamaran makes a solid choice. If you have no plans of moving around at all, the stationary houseboat makes the perfect pick.

Space Considerations

A live aboard can feel pretty crowded. So it really pays to consider your family's space requirements. If you've lived in a conventional home up until this point, you might find yourself feeling a little claustrophobic with the kind of space available on a liveaboard boat, especially smaller models like the catamaran or sailboat.

While lots of families get by with a converted deck that changes depending on the time of day (like converting from a dining area in the morning to a bed or berth at night), some members of your family might prefer having their own stateroom all together. The cabin also plays a crucial role in providing a shared space for the whole family.

Some liveaboard boats feature spacious master stateroom and secondary stateroom areas that give every member of the group their own private space. Others use areas like the cockpit which they convert into staterooms at night by using temporary modifications.

Storage Availability

Another thing worth considering is storage space. A minimalist lifestyle often becomes the default way of life for people aboard a watercraft. But it's not necessarily by choice so much as is it because of circumstance.

Without a lot of room aboard for personal effects and other paraphernalia, a liveaboard might have you tossing out a bunch of things before making the move. Most often, it pays to have temporary or convertible furniture that you can move around depending on your needs.

Most owners use a dinette that they can fold away when it isn't meal time. Other models have a master stateroom with a berth and cabinets built into the area. And of course, dual-purpose benches that open into storage space is a must-have.

Amenities and Features

You'd be surprised just how much like a house some boats can look on the inside. Depending on the size and design of your boat, you could have a complete kitchen instead of just a galley and dinette, a bathroom, and even a media lounge on board. Yachts are particularly popular for their extensive features and amenities that can even include tennis courts, gym facilities, and a full-sized pool.

Even if you manage to buy a sailboat or catamaran on the cheap side however, there's hope for your hotel-style lake-top experience yet. Most boat owners customize their boats after market, allowing them to execute changes and designs that specifically match their own needs.

For a lot of boat owners, having a shower and toilet or head system on deck is a non-negotiable feature. But others get by with marina shower facilities that they can use by docking their vessel especially if their sailboat doesn't allow it.

Maintenance

If you're going to live aboard a watercraft full time, you have to consider maintenance. Remember that most boats get put into storage during the off seasons, so they're not always on water. This gives owners the opportunity to clean up and perform maintenance on a regular, routine basis.

Living aboard a boat however may significantly limit the opportunities for maintenance. That's because fixing an issue especially those concerning the motor, engine, or parts under the hull, would mean having to surrender your home for a few weeks or months.

Other boats cost a fortune to maintain. Yachts with leather upholstery and polished exteriors will need constant cleaning with specific products and formulations to maintain appearances. Unless you're willing to spend on those cleaning products and on people to do the job for you, the whole liveaboard lifestyle might feel a little expensive.

The Best Places to Liveaboard a Boat

Generally speaking, you're going to want to find a place that legally permits boat owners to live on their boat. Remember that marinas and docks have their own rules in place, and not all of them will gladly let you tether indefinitely. The same goes for lakes and other bodies of water.

Before you start sleeping on your boat moving forward, here are some of the best liveaboard locations you might want to consider calling home:

Atlantic Ocean

The Atlantic Ocean covers the entire west coast, providing you a range of options from Maine to Virginia to Florida. If you're hoping for a more relaxed environment, heading closer to the north for most of the year can help you experience a much less hectic atmosphere.

Of course, that's until winter settles in. When the cold months roll in, it would be best to cruise on down south to Florida where sunny skies and warm weather prevail most of the year.

Pacific Ocean

If you're more of a west coast kind of person, then the Pacific Ocean might be a better address. This location provides easy access to the excitement of California. Cruising through the Pacific also provides more opportunities for water sports and exciting water-top activities throughout the year.

Bordering Oregon, Washington, and California, the Pacific Ocean is home to loads of marinas and boating hot spots for avid boat owners who want a little more adventure during their day to day.

Gulf of Mexico

If you were hoping for a more retirement-like feel, then the Gulf of Mexico would be the place to be. This area boasts beautiful crystal clear turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and gorgeous sunny weather all year round. A mirror image of the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico offers all of the tourist-magnetizing beauty minus the travel requirements.

Local Rivers, Lakes, and Bays

Throughout the country, you'll find rivers, lakes, and bays that make viable spots for living aboard your boat. Remember though that rules and laws change from place to place, so if you were hoping to head down to your local lake and call it home, you might want to check with the authorities first.

Other considerations include accessibility. How easy can you move in and out of the body of water? Access to marinas, shops, and even repair centers can make your liveaboard lifestyle just that much easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good sized boat to live on.

Generally, a boat that's at least 30 feet should provide all of the necessary amenities and features for a family of two to three. You could probably squeeze in a fourth member if you don't mind sharing spaces. If you want more extensive features, you might have to consider getting a boat that's at least 50 feet.

Is it cheaper to live on a boat than a house?

In terms of utilities, you can expect to pay just a fraction of what you would while living in a conventional home. A great liveaboard can also come with solar panels that let you save on the cost of powering electronics on your vessel.

However just because it's cheaper, doesn't mean it's cheap. Sleeping and essentially living in a liveaboard boat means spending on maintenance. You'd be surprised just how expensive it can be to maintain liveaboards. Cleaning interior furnishings requires unique cleaning products. There's also the issue of moisture and humidity which can spell serious trouble for your boat.

How much does a liveaboard boat cost?

You'll spend between $10,000 to $30,000 for a suitable liveaboard boat. But prices can fluctuate widely. Depending on how you want your living space to be, you can find yourself spending upwards of $100,000 for a luxury boat.

Spacious stateroom units, a fully functional galley and dining room, and head systems and bathrooms can cost a lot to construct and customize. Not to mention the expense of interior design, which can exponentially increase the cost of your boat. 

Boat Sweet Boat

The best liveaboard boats provide all of the trappings you would expect from a hotel. But if your budget is limited, you can find a suitable water-top dwelling at just around $10,000.

Sure, moving your family into a boat might seem like a big and crazy change. But with the right planning and execution, you might find that life on liveaboards beats conventional housing in more ways than one.

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A List of The 5 Best Boats to Live On

5 Best Boats To Live On

So, you want to live on a boat? Our yacht management team at Yacht Management South Florida, Inc. has previously discussed the pros and cons of living on a yacht . However, if you’ve decided a maritime residence is right for you, you’ve got to decide which vessel is going to be your next home sweet home. While most mid-sized boats are boats you can live on, if you are going to be living on your boat year-round, you probably want something that’s high in comfort. If that’s the case, consider this list of the best liveaboard boats. From riverboats to open ocean cruisers, which type of boat is best suited to your lifestyle is up to you.

Catamarans The double-hull structure of catamarans not only offers exceptional stability in rough waters but also spacious separate living spaces. Most catamarans offer plenty of outdoor and above deck living as well as comfortable interior rooms. Sail catamarans often come with motors as well, allowing you to save on fuel costs during windy days and use the engines when needed.

Trawler If you're looking for a great pecan cruiser as well one of the best liveaboard boats, consider investing in a trawler. With their wide hulls, hard chines, and considerable below deck headroom, trawlers make great boats to live on. While the interiors of liveaboard trawlers typically maintain a nautical quality, their hard angles and high ceilings lend themselves well to a homier feeling.

Canal Boat Also called narrowboats, these types of liveaboard boats are mostly popular in Europe. Best suited for cruising rivers and lakes, these long, flat hulled covered boats need to go under extensive yacht restoration to be converted into water residences. Since the majority of the boat’s original interiors are gutted during renovation and many owners choose to decorate with traditional furniture and fittings, living in a narrowboat or canal boat is much like living in an oddly shaped one-bedroom apartment or even an RV.

Converted Barges Similar to canal boats, barges also need to go through extensive conversion to become boats to live on. However, converted barges are significantly more spacious and often have both below deck and above deck living spaces. So, while living on a narrowboat can feel like living in a small apartment, a converted barge feels more like living in a luxury apartment. Best suited for river cruising, some barges can go out into the ocean, just not too far from shore.

Houseboat Probably the best liveaboard boat when it comes to living in a maritime residence that looks like a regular land-based home inside and outside, houseboats are best suited to cruising rivers, lakes, and bay areas. However, even though houseboats do have propellers and don’t have to stay moored like floating residences do, houseboats stay docked the majority of the time. If you are looking for a boat you can live on as well as use for on the water exploration, a houseboat may not be the best choice for you.

Yacht Management South Florida, Inc. is a Fort Lauderdale yacht management and yacht maintenance company. At our Fort Lauderdale marina and full-service boatyard, we offer yacht restoration , refits, and regular maintenance packages that include boat bottom cleaning , boat hull painting , repairs, and other premier onshore or dockside services. Contact us or call (954) 941-6447 today!

For all inquiries, fill out the form below and a member of our team will respond as soon as possible

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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Living On A Boat Ultimate Guide (What You Need To Know)

Especially in today’s world, it’s hard to escape the high prices of city living. In places like San Francisco, the average rent is over three grand! Which is just crazy. Because of this, many people are ditching the standard way of living and deciding to live on a boat.

Although living on a boat may seem extremely exciting, there’s a reason why it’s not considered the “norm”. Some who try it love it, while others hate it. Reading this article will help you understand if living on a boat is right for you.

Table of Contents

How to know if living on a boat is right for you?

There are MANY things about living on a boat that are not ideal. With every pro, there is also a con that you will have to deal with. Being docked at a marina, you are usually very close to your neighbors. So if having to hear others talk or play music bothers you, you may not enjoy living in a marina.

Along with that, there are many other cons to living aboard. The ones I dislike the most are you don’t have a yard, sometimes the water smells like fish, and marina wifi usually sucks. To understand more about if living on a boat is right for you, the heading below will help.

13 things people who live aboard wish they new before going full-time

So after looking back on the struggles I had living aboard and asking many others on Instagram, here are the top things they wish they knew before living aboard full time:

There is always work to be done on a boat

Whether it’s engine maintenance, cleaning, waxing, painting, etc., there is always work that needs to be done on a boat. There is much more work that will need to be done than an average suburban home will have.

Cruisersforum.com did a poll and found out that liveaboard boaters spend 10 hours per week doing maintenance on average. One way to limit maintenance time and money is to get a sailboat with a small outboard or no outboard.

It is possible to pay for most maintenance work to be done for you, however, this can end up being thousands of dollars every month.

Personal privacy is hard to acheive in a small place

Not only will you be close to your neighbors if docked in a marina, but you will also be close to your partner. Most boats are much smaller than an average-sized home, so there isn’t much space to get away and be alone.

My liveaboard friend on Instagram @svbeflor points out that couples with great teamwork will find this to be barely an issue. However, if you believe it will be an issue, look at getting a larger vessel with a flybridge. This way, you can always go up there to get some alone time.

Organization is key

If you are not an organized person, you may get frustrated with the lack of space inside a boat. However, most people will eventually learn to be organized because it is a must when living aboard.

Internet and cell service is hard to get and is usually quite slow

Cell phones lose reception once they’re around 15 miles from shore ( source ). So having a satellite phone such as this one on Amazon is a must for those who travel far out of radio communication range.

Most boat marinas have internet that you can connect to from your slip but don’t expect it to be lightning fast. If you need internet when out at sea, a few satellite options are available. Iridium Go (link to Amazon) is the cheapest option available; however, other options provide much better connections. My favorite is the Iridium Certus Thales .

Small mistakes can cost you your life

If you are sailing out in the middle of the sea, you always need to be attentive to your surrounding and what you are doing. There is always a danger to living on the water. Some may like it, while others will hate it.

The importance of a water maker

If you’re traveling long distances in saltwater, the amount of water you have to bring can get ridiculous. This is why getting a water maker such as this one is extremely important to save space and weight.

Along with that, a water maker allows you to stay anchored away from a marina and still have fresh water in your boat.

The importance of a large grey water tank

Like a watermaker, a large grey water tank is important if you plan to travel long distances. Most marinas will pump out your greywater, but this isn’t possible if you’re out at sea.

Shaving cream, shampoo, toothpaste, and much more are all toxic to the ocean. So it’s never advisable to dump your grey water in the sea.

Simple things such as receiving mail is more complicated

Many simple things may become harder to do without having an actual address. Getting a doctor, voting, and receiving mail are a few things that will become more complicated.

Limiting your water and electricity use

If you’re out at sea, you want to use the least amount of water as possible to save water and space in your grey water tank. Electricity is the same. Unless you have loads of solar panels, you will most likely need to limit electricity use when out at sea.

In the marina, these utilities are provided but usually cost more than if you were in a regular home. So it’s a good idea to get in the habit of limiting your use of them.

Laundry can be a pain

Not having a washer and dryer on your boat can literally be the deal-breaker for many people. Fortunately, many marinas have washers and dryers available for use, but they may often be out of service, or you will have to wait your turn to use them.

Sometimes you’ll just need to take a break

The hassle of living in a boat can be fun for young travelers or people looking for an alternate lifestyle. However, sometimes it can get exhausting, and you will want a break.

You will probably want to take a vacation at least once a year. This vacation could be as simple as visiting mom and dad for a week or as elaborate as visiting Australia for a month. As long as you are away from the boat, your mind can reset. So when you go back, you will enjoy the hassle again.

You need to watch the weather religiously

Bad weather affects you much more on a boat than if you were in a home on land. This is especially true if you are anchored or traveling outside a marina. However, even if you are docked in a marina, the weather still can have harsh effects on your boat.

This is why watching forecasts every morning is essential. You always want to be prepared for whatever mother nature throws at you.

Living on a boat can be expensive

Although it can be cheaper to live on a boat than in an apartment or home, it also can be more expensive. Not only do expensive boats cost more, but they also cost more to repair. Maintenance will be costly on a boat no matter what, but especially if you have an expensive boat.

Many maintenances can be done by yourself; however, it will still cost you a lot of time.

What are the benefits of living on a boat?

Living on a boat is not for everyone, but the ones that do it get some awesome benefits. So if I were to convince you that living on a boat is the best lifestyle, here are the benefits I’d list.

• Makes you a more interesting person. Everyone will want to know about your unique lifestyle. If you enjoy being the center of attention at dinner parties, this is one way to get there.
• Can be much cheaper than living in a home. You can get a boat and a place to dock, anchor, or moor for much cheaper than you can a house. This is especially true if you live in a high cost of living area.
• Gives more meaning to your life. If you love being unique and traveling, nothing is more fulfilling than breaking the norm and living aboard.

How much does it cost to live on a boat?

The cost of living on a boat depends on many factors. It can be cheaper than living in a home or apartment, especially in areas with high rent, but it also can be more expensive.

On average, boaters who live aboard pay between $1,500-$3,500 per month. Sailboaters who live aboard pay around $1000-$2,500 per month. This includes costs for a boat loan, marina slip rent, electricity, fuel, maintenance, and insurance.

If you want to get a more personalized answer, go to the article by clicking here and scrolling down to the “Cost of living aboard calculator”.

How much do marina slips cost?

One of the most significant factors that go into the price of living aboard is your marina slip. Although you can anchor or moor for very cheap, it’s much better to be in a marina with many amenities that make life easy.

Marina slips cost depends mainly on their location. Prime cities such as Miami, L.A., and Key West will cost much more than regular cities. According to my data, renting a marina dock slip costs around $9-$20/ft per month. Marina slips in prime locations cost around $17-$30/ft per month.

If you want to see the average cost for your city, check out this article here .

Can you permanently live on a boat?

Yes, you can permanently live on a boat. However, you will need to make sure your marina allows full-time liveaboards. Many marinas will charge you more for this. Also, because living aboard is in such high demand, these slips often have year-long waiting lists.

So if you plan on making the switch to a more aquatic life, you must search for marinas as early as possible. If you don’t want to stay at a marina, you could moor or anchor; however, this would mean you are not connected to city power or water.

Weather is another huge thing to consider if living aboard permanently. Make sure your heater works well and doesn’t cost you too much in electricity.

How do you visit other countries on your boat?

One of the biggest perks of living on a boat is being able to take your home all over the world. However, you need to make sure you have the correct documents to do so. So in order to visit another country, you for sure need these two things:

• Your passport
• Proof of boat ownership

The most common proof of boat ownership is the title. You may also need (or need to do) these things when boating to another country (depends on the country, your boat, etc.):

• Cruising permits
• Pass customs regulations
• Pass quarantine regulations

So, always check the specific requirements for each country before visiting, because not all are the same. If you want to learn more about this subject, check out this article .

Sailboat vs motorboat for living aboard

Sailboats and motorboats both have their pros and cons, so the answer to this depends on what kind of person you are. I’ve laid out the pros and cons for each below to make it simple.

Pros and cons of getting a sailboat

• More widely available than motorboats
• Less maintenance
• better for the environment
• Can travel far without needing to be refueled
• Sailing is not easy
• Sailing is very hands-on and requires a lot of attention to properly do it

Pros and cons of getting a motorboat

• Travel much faster than a sailboat
• Less skill needed
• More maintenance needed
• More parts that can break
• Generally more expensive
• Need to stop to refill fuel often

If you want to save money and challenge yourself, I recommend going with a sailboat. If you get a watermaker and a sustainable energy source, you can travel for much more extended periods of time than in a motorboat.

If you don’t plan to travel very far and have enough money, then a motorboat may be better. Although motorboats may have more maintenance due to their engine, it generally needs to get fixed by paying someone else. This means motorboating is usually a lot less hands-on than sailing.

What is a good size boat to live on?

Although some people may be able to live in some pretty small areas, any boat length under 30 feet will be tough. lifeofsailing.com says the ideal size is 35-45 feet long.

For a single person, you will probably be fine on anything larger than 30 feet, but I do not recommend a couple living in a 30-foot boat. Especially if one of you gets claustrophobic easily.

If you plan on bringing your whole family aboard, I would look for something 45 feet or larger. Even 45 feet is pretty small for 3 people. Unless you get something 60+ feet, it’s basically like living in a tiny home.

What are the best types of boats to live on?

If you do decide living on a boat is right for you, you still need to know what type of boat suits you best. In an article I wrote titled “ What Type Of Boat Is Best To Live On? (Personalized Guide) “, I go over the top boats to live on. These include:

• Sailboats . Best for people who enjoy a challenge.
• Trawlers . Best for people who need space and experience cold winters.
• Houseboats . Best for people who don’t want/need to travel much on their boat.
• Yachts . Great all-around choice if you have the money.
• Sport Fishing Boats . Best for fishermen or people who want an affordable large boat.
• Catamarans . Best for people who want to travel the world.
• Canal Boats . Best for people living in canals.
• Cabin Cruisers . Best for solo boaters or couples who want to travel a lot.
• Pilothouse Boat . Best for cold weather boating.
• Tug Boats . Best for people who want an affordable boat that has lots of space.

I highly recommend you check out the article if you’re not sure what type of boat will suit you best. I even included a personality quiz at the end of it that you can take and it determines exactly what boat type suits you best.

Where is the best place to live on a boat?

Location and price are the two main factors when determining the best place for you to live aboard. You can find cheap mooring or anchoring locations if you’re worried about price. Marina slips will usually always be more expensive.

As I said earlier in the article, prime cities such as Miami, L.A., and San Fran will be much more expensive than sub-prime cities such as Philadelphia, Housten, and Daytona. If cost is the main issue, check out this article here that gives a marina price estimate for over 60 different cities.

From that article, some of the best bang for buck locations include:

• Houston, TX
• New Orleans, LA
• Savannah, GA
• St. Petersberg, FL
• Panama City, FL

Where can you purchase a boat/sailboat to live on?

The best places to look for used liveaboard boats is Facebook marketplace, Craigslist, and boattrader.com. If you want a new boat, go directly to dealers in your area.

Can you anchor a boat anywhere?

Although there are places you can anchor or moor (many times for free), you can’t do it anywhere. Most places have laws in place that will deter you from doing so. Along with that, not everywhere is safe to anchor.

If you do anchor down for the night, search for an area that is protected from wind and waves. If possible, also look for approved docking areas online.

Can you live on a boat with a pet?

Living aboard with a pet (especially a dog) is not easy. If you plan on doing this, organization is key. There is limited space on a boat, and when you add a pet, dog bed, pet food, cage, etc., space starts to run out.

If you plan to travel, every country has different laws for importing animals. Therefore, you will have to check online before crossing any borders if it’s okay to bring your pet.

Although the video below is directed toward dogs, it’s still an excellent resource for someone trying to bring any pet aboard with them. So check it out to learn more.

Instagram links to the liveaboards who helped me write this post

@svbeflor @mvblackmagic

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25 Best Boats with Living Quarters: Catamaran, Yachts, Sailboats

Categories Boating

When you blend the excitement of boating with the comfort of home, boats with cozy living spaces bring your maritime dreams to life. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway on calm waters or thinking about living on a boat, these special vessels are the perfect solution for what you’re after. In the next sections, we’ll take you on an exciting journey to discover the best boats with comfy living areas. With this thorough guide, our goal is to provide you with the information you need to make smart choices and ensure that your time on the water is truly amazing.

Different Types of Boats with Living Quarters

Catamarans, yachts, and sailboats make for popular living quarter choices among boat dwellers.

CATAMARANS:  Renowned for their wide beam and two-hull construction, catamarans are versatile, serving multiple purposes. They’re ideal for fishing, cruising, or operating as a yacht tender. Built for stability and speed, catamarans outpace their monohull rivals. Their midship living quarters offer open spaces and panoramic views.

YACHTS:  With their larger-than-average size, yachts are synonymous with luxury and are often the preferential choice for boat living. Main deck or below deck living quarters are built for comfort, offering ample space and stability for cruising and fishing excursions. Though bulkier and fuel-hungry, yachts generally outstrip sailboats in speed.

SAILBOATS:  Pioneers of maritime living quarters, sailboats are a common sight across marinas worldwide. Their major selling point lies in their fuel efficiency, providing the perfect balance between adventure and sustainability, even if slightly slower than the rest.

1. Bayliner 3488

The Bayliner 3488 proves itself as a standout in offering both leisure and homely comforts in one package. As a hybrid between a potent fishing vessel and a waterborne RV, it seamlessly blends function and comfort. The boat’s full kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping quarters are designed to accommodate up to six people, ensuring a hospitable environment at all times.

Measuring 29 feet in length and sporting a 10-foot broad beam, this vessel strikes a delicate balance between space and mobility. Operated by a powerful 250-horsepower Mercury engine, it can reach nifty speeds up to 34 mph, extending its capacity beyond calm marina waters. Yet, it remains small enough to explore hidden waterways inaccessible to more substantial watercraft.

Price: Used models are listed around $68,500 and $27,500.

2. 49′ Pilothouse

If you’re an angler at heart and yearn to merge your casual fishing getaways with an uninterrupted lifestyle, then the 49′ Pilothouse is your dream come true. It’s much more than a weekend escape vessel; the 49′ Pilothouse offers the perfect platform for live-aboard beginners who often find themselves constantly fishing off their boat.

Defying standard conventions, the 48′ Pilothouse stands out as more than your traditional fishing boat. It can sleep up to six individuals while housing an enclosed head with an exclusive shower stall. This unique configuration makes it a one-of-a-kind maritime dwelling choice that promises enjoyment and high sea relaxation for years to come.

Price: The DeFever 49 Pilothouse has used models listed for around $189,900 and $165,000.

3. Beneteau Swift Trawler 41

Tailored to elevate offshore fishing experiences, the modern, performance-oriented Beneteau Swift Trawler 41 is an angler’s paradise. It incorporates various innovations to serve the angling community best, featuring a large aft deck for unencumbered fishing, not to mention copious storage for rods, tackle, and other equipment.

But this boat does not cut corners on comfort for functionality: it is equipped with a plush, large cabin featuring a queen-sized bed, private bathroom, and shower. On top of that, an electric stove allows for meal preparation on the go, making this vessel a well-rounded option for liveaboards hoping to spend most of their time hunting the next big catch.

Price: The starting MSRP for a new model is approximately $782,100, excluding taxes.

4. Azimut Magellano 43

For those yearning for luxury on the water, the Azimut Magellano 43 is an embodiment of opulence. It readily accommodates up to 14 guests across large sundecks cradled by a crew of six. The feature list is exhaustive, boasting air conditioning, a state-of-the-art entertainment system with Wi-Fi access, a fully loaded galley, and even a gym, spa, and sauna for ultimate relaxation.

In terms of performance, this cruiser comfortably sails at 12 knots under calm conditions while capable of pushing 17 knots within rough seas. Its range extends to 2,600 nautical miles, suitable for lengthy voyages. The seven decadent cabins, each equipped with an en-suite bathroom, ensure privacy and ease for sizable groups exploring the seascape in style.

Price: Used models can vary, with some listings showing prices around $726,611 and $510,734.

5. Regal 33 Express Cruiser

As the epitome where comfort meets utility, the Regal 33 Express Cruiser reigns admirable for its well-thought-out design and a nod towards accommodating liveaboards amicably. Its interior, coupled with an enclosed cabin, can host up to six people for nights under the star-studded sea sky.

Aboard this fine vessel, you’ll find amenities akin to sophisticated RVs. A well-endowed marine head, robust galley, practical sink, and vital storage icebox all ensure living comforts are within an arm’s reach. Further accentuating its hospitality, an impressively large cockpit area allows everyone to enjoy their cruising destination without any compromise on personal space.

Price: New models have an MSRP of approximately $291,700, while used models can be found for around $234,105.

6. Bruce Roberts Seamaster 45

The Bruce Roberts Seamaster 45 positions itself at the forefront of maritime homes with its feature-rich offering. This purpose-built boat comes with an open deck, generous living quarters, and a handsomely equipped galley, embodying comfort and functionality in equal measure.

Ideally suited for fishing enthusiasts, the Seamaster 45 houses a spacious cockpit coupled with an enclosed helm station that can double as the captain’s quarters. It also features two separate staterooms that offer versatile space for sleeping or storage. An expansive galley with essentials like an electric stove, sink, and refrigerator caters to all your culinary needs while at sea.

Price: Used models range from approximately $85,170 to $58,000.

7. Meridian 368 Motoryacht

For those seeking an infusion of luxury into their maritime lifestyle, the Meridian 368 Motoryacht offers an elegant solution. With accommodating living quarters featuring indoor and outdoor seating areas, a complete kitchen, a bathroom, and ample moving space, this boat is built for entertainment and relaxation.

Housing two staterooms and two heads, the Meridian 368 Motoryacht adds a level of privacy unmatched by most. The tastefully designed master stateroom has a queen-size bed, while the guest room hosts two twin beds. Powered by twin Volvo Penta IPS600 engines, the vessel produces 600 horsepower, promising smooth and powerful cruising excursions.

Visually striking with its sleek design, the Meridian 368 Motoryacht provides a break away from the humdrum. It stands as a testament to a lavish, unhurried life on the water.

Price: Used models have prices ranging from approximately $199,900 to $235,000.

8. Lagoon 46

The Lagoon 46 is an embodiment of luxury and functionality fusing into one spectacular vessel. Featuring roomy living quarters with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a lounge area, including a functioning galley, this boat is a family’s marine home dream.

Designed for those with an adventurous spirit, the Lagoon 46 serves as a global cruiser. Its construction ensures comfort across various climates, coupled with a large cockpit for sunbathing or simply unwinding with friends and family under the open sky.

For families aiming for a maritime lifestyle, the Lagoon 46 provides ample space and necessary luxuries without feeling cramped. An exquisite blend of comfort and functionality, the Lagoon 46 could be the next great chapter in your life on the open waves.

Price: Used models can be found with prices ranging from approximately $875,000 to $1,163,477.

9. Meridian Aft Cabin boats

Meridian boats’ Aft Cabin models embody comfort and performance, wrapped elegantly into versatile offshore applications. Every Meridian vessel is built with the same craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail, making this range an easy choice for those seeking consistent quality.

The Aft Cabin models come in various sizes, highlighting the brand’s emphasis on customization. They cater to diverse boating needs, from family outings cruising or fishing, with a wide selection of add-ons improving the base model.

Price: Used models vary in price, with listings showing prices around $199,900, $200,000, and $235,000.

10. ADEA Sunreef 62

Consider the Sunreef 62 if you’re scouting for a spacious boat that marries marine mastery with homely comforts. Consisting of two docking bedrooms and an open living room, it also features a kitchen area and a bathroom with a shower. With a total space of 192 square feet, the Sunreef 62 makes a suitable choice for two people who aim to live aboard their vessel while preserving ample storage space for their belongings.

The Sunreef 62 boasts an aluminum hull with fiberglass decks and windows, ensuring it’s lightweight yet sturdy. Although its maximum speed is seven knots, it is aptly designed for coast cruising as opposed to long transoceanic voyages.

Price: This boat is available for charter, with rates ranging from $30,000 to $39,500 per week.

11. Beneteau Antares 11

Meet the Beneteau Antares 11, a superbly designed liveaboard boat with well-crafted living quarters. This alluring watercraft is furnished with three double berths and a pair of bathrooms, offering sufficient room for six occupants. It features an engaging saloon with a 360-degree panoramic outlook, thanks to the windows flanking three sides.

Sitting at 11 meters in length, the Beneteau Antares 11 moves with a maximum velocity of 15 knots. With a carrying capacity of up to 5,000 liters of fuel, it has a draft of 1.40 meters. The boat is equipped with a fully functional galley, inclusive of a stove, refrigerator, and freezer. Adding to its comfort features are an electric toilet, air conditioning, and an onboard generator.

Price: The starting price is around US$239,900.

12. Aquila 54

Bearing a bulky displacement of over 56,000 pounds, the dual-hulled Aquila 54 can comfortably provide accommodation for eight individuals. The boat encompasses two private owner staterooms and an additional pair of guest staterooms.

Highlighting an enclosed flybridge, the Aquila 54 can withstand challenging weather conditions, offering a generous open deck equipped with sun pads, a seating area, and a wet bar. The model comes as a powerboat or sailboat variant, the latter boasting two masts and an additional 4,000 square feet of living space on the main deck. With a spacious interior, including a sizable saloon and an open-plan galley, it houses up to 8 people comfortably.

Price: The price is approximately US$2,995,000.

13. Viking 46 Cruiser

Viking 46 Cruiser is your ideal luxury boat for a tranquil cruising experience, with enough room to sleep six people. Promising a robust cruising lifestyle, it provides amenities like an electric stovetop, refrigerator/freezer, microwave oven, and coffee maker. Complemented by an outdoor shower, swim platform, and transom door, the Viking 46 Cruiser elevates your liveaboard experience to a whole new level.

Price: The price is around US$1,599,000.

14. Neel 51 Trimaran

Neel 51 Trimaran, a three-hulled wonder, can serve as a sailing vessel, houseboat, or cruiser. The brainchild of Peter Neel, this boat dates back to 1992. It’s hailed as “the most beautiful of all three-hulled vessels,” having an innovative design that made headlines in the July 1987 issue of Popular Science magazine.

Comprising a sturdy fiberglass and epoxy resin structure over an aluminum frame, the Neel 51 Trimaran spans 25 meters in length. Designed with ample living space, it accommodates up to 8 people comfortably.

Price: The price is approximately US$1,250,000.

15. Scout 350 LXF

The Scout 350 LXF, equipped with three staterooms and two heads, incorporates an electric crane that simplifies onboard gear loading. Offering a cockpit table, an electric fireplace, and a large windshield, this model also boasts an aluminum transom and a fiberglass body for superior durability. Additional features include an accessible swim platform with a ladder for instant water access.

16. Grand Banks Eastbay 44

The Grand Banks Eastbay 44 is a remarkable liveaboard boat providing two separate cabins, each furnished with a bunk bed and double-sized berth. Both cabins offer curtains for added privacy. One cabin includes a head with a shower, while the other cabin provides an equipped kitchen that includes an oven, refrigerator/freezer combo, and microwave. Additionally, the Eastbay 44 offers a washer and dryer, a flat-screen TV with a DVD player, and a stereo system for ultimate convenience and entertainment aboard.

Price: The price is approximately US$1.35 million.

17. Tiara 43 LE

The Tiara 43 LE is a beautiful boat with everything you could ask for in a houseboat. It has three staterooms, two heads, a large salon, and a dining area. The galley is equipped with all of the amenities you could want in a boat kitchen. It has multiple beds, including two double beds, one single bed, and a queen-size sofa bed.

There is room for up to ten people on this boat, which makes it perfect for large groups of friends or family members. The Tiara 43 LE also has a large salon, which makes it ideal for entertaining guests. The boat has two staterooms, one of which is located below the deck and the other one on the main deck.

Price: The price is around US$1,049,000.

18. Jeanneau NC1095

This boat is one of the best boats with living quarters. It has a distinctive design that makes it look like a yacht, but it’s just an aluminum-hulled pontoon boat. It’s a great boat for all sorts of watersports and is available in several layouts, including some with living quarters.

The boat is available in two layouts: the V-berth and the cabin layout. Both of them are excellent choices, but it depends on your preferences. It can sleep six people comfortably, which is more than enough for a weekend trip.

Price: The price is approximately US$349,500.

19. Rinker 270 Express Cruiser

The Rinker 270 Express Cruiser is one of the best boats with living quarters. It has a head (toilet) and showers on board, which makes it perfect for more extended stays aboard. The 270 Express Cruiser has a length of 25 feet and a beam of 8 feet, which makes it ideal for cruising on the water. The boat has a maximum speed of 23 knots and can carry up to 2,200 pounds of weight.

The Rinker 270 comes with an impressive list of standard features. The boat has a spacious aft cockpit and an optional bow sun lounge that makes it easy for passengers to relax while underway. It comes with a bow thruster, which makes it easy to dock the boat and maneuver in tight spaces. The 270 also has an optional snap-in carpet flooring system that makes it easy to clean the ship.

Price: The MSRP is around $46,722.

20. Jeanneau Leader 33

The Jeanneau Leader 33 is an excellent boat with living quarters. It has an aft cabin, which can be used as your vessel’s head, or you could use it for storage. The boat also has a galley with an electric stove and refrigerator. The boat is light enough to be used on inland waterways and lakes.

The Jeanneau Leader 33 has a fiberglass hull powered by a Volvo Penta engine. The boat also has an anchor, fenders and lines, a bow roller, mooring lines, and a fire extinguisher. The boat is priced at $59,900.

The Jeanneau Leader 33 is an excellent boat for cruising the inland waterways or fishing on the lake. It has a spacious cockpit, which is great for entertaining or relaxing. The ship has a spacious cabin, which can be used as your vessel’s head or for storage. The boat also has a galley with an electric stove and refrigerator. The boat has a fiberglass hull and an aluminum superstructure. It is powered by a Volvo Penta engine with 215 horsepower.

Price: The price is approximately US$177,661.

21. Schaefer 365

The Schaefer 365 is a classic pontoon boat. This boat has the feel of an old-timey wooden vessel with modern flair and features. The interior flows seamlessly from one room to the next, with a galley on the port side and an aft cabin.

The Schaefer 365 is perfect for those who want to camp aboard their boat. It has two sleeping areas that can accommodate up to eight people. It also has a large cockpit that you can use for entertaining or relaxing in the sun.

The Schaefer 365 is perfect for those who want an alternative to living on land. It has a classic design but with modern amenities and features.

Price: The base price of a new Schaefer 365 is not currently published. Used models are listed around $323,679 USD and €166,780 EUR.

22. Schaefer 400

The Schaefer 400 is a high-quality pontoon boat that has an elegant, modern design. It also features superb construction and attention to detail. The interior is luxurious with mahogany wood, it has a fully equipped galley, and the exterior is designed with style. It also features an outdoor stereo system for entertainment purposes.

This boat is great for lounging on the water. It is equipped with a canopy for shade and protection from the sun, an outdoor stereo system, and it also has a large deck area. The interior cabin offers seating for up to 10 people.

The 400 model has a length of 39 feet and is 15 feet wide. It also features a depth of 3 foot 9 inches, which means that you can use it in shallow waters. The boat has a maximum capacity of 8 people and can reach a speed of up to 6 miles per hour.

Price: The prices for new models can vary, with some listings showing prices around $699,000 USD, $496,561 USD, and $648,000 USD.

23. Marex 350 Cabriolet Cruiser

The Marex 360 CC is a modern-day version of the classic fishing boat. Since it has an enclosed cabin, you can use this boat for many purposes besides fishing. This model also features an aft deck with a seating area and lives well.

The Marex 360 CC is available in various sizes, so it can be customized to suit your family’s or business’s needs. This model also features a large, open cockpit that provides plenty of room for fishing equipment and other gear.

The Marex 360 CC is built with an aluminum hull, making it lightweight and durable. This boat can be used for many purposes, including fishing, water sports, and transporting equipment or supplies to remote locations.

Price: The base price of a new Marex 350 Cabriolet Cruiser is €72.6 thousand. Used models are listed at around 166,780 EUR.

24. Parker 790 Explorer

The Parker 790 Explorer is a pontoon boat that can sleep up to 8 people. The living quarters are on the back of the vessel, and there’s an outside kitchen, bathroom, and living area.

The Parker 790 Explorer is a great way to enjoy the water with your family and friends. The boat is powered by a Mercruiser 5.7L MPI Alpha One engine and has plenty of storage space for fishing gear or supplies while you’re on the water. It’s also equipped with a Raymarine C-120 color GPS plotter, fishfinder, and an AM/FM radio with a CD player.

Price: The base price of a new Parker 790 Explorer is around €72.6 thousand. Used models are listed around $124,384 USD and $137,852 USD.

25. Sealine C 390

The Sealine C 390 is a fantastic boat with living quarters. It has a beautiful design that lets you see the ocean while on board and also have a relaxing time when inside.

The Sealine C 390 is a beautiful boat with everything you need for luxury living on the water. It has two cabins, a galley, and a full-sized living room. The design lets you see the ocean while on board and also have a relaxing time when inside. The Sealine C 390 is priced at $1,095,000.

Price: The prices for new models can vary, with some listings showing prices around $669,368 USD and $432,315 USD.

Features to look for in boats with living quarters

Boats with living quarters provide an ideal spot to spend quality time with family or friends. They also make great boating destinations for fishing, sailing, or simply exploring the waters around your home. By paying attention to the features that make a boat perfect for living in, you can find the ideal vessel for your needs.

Cabins –  Some boats are designed specifically for living on the water. These vessels have cabins that offer sleeping space and a place to relax and cook. Many of these cabins are finished with modern amenities like televisions, air conditioning, and bathrooms.

Living rooms –  Some boats have a separate room that serves as the living area. This area is often furnished with a couch, table, and chairs. Some ships even have a kitchenette in the living room.

Bathrooms –  Most boats with cabins or separate living areas have a bathroom. This is usually located in the cabin or separate room and has a toilet, sink, and shower.

Some boats are designed specifically for living on the water. These vessels have everything you need for a comfortable and convenient life at sea. The traditional crafts with living quarters include sailboats, houseboats, cabin cruisers, and pontoon boats.

What are the benefits of having a boat with living quarters?

The benefits of having a boat with living quarters include the ability to have more space, privacy, and convenience. Boat owners can also enjoy various activities such as fishing, sailing, or cabin cruising. Boat owners can also use their boats for transportation and vacation. Water sports such as jet skiing or boating are popular on boats with living quarters.

Having a boat with living quarters allows you more space than you would if you only had an apartment or houseboat. You can also use your boat for traveling and vacations instead of public transportation or staying in hotels.

Boat owners who live on boats often find it easier to keep clean than if they lived on land because there is no lawn to mow and no need for cleaning crews when visitors come over.

People who live on boats often exercise because they need to walk around their ship all the time instead of walking from one end of their property to the other, as people who live in apartments do.

How can you choose the best boat for you?

There is a lot to consider if you want to buy a boat. There are many different types of boats, which can be very expensive. Here, we will discuss some factors that you should consider when looking for a boat.

The first thing to consider is the size of your family and how many people will be using the boat. This will determine what type of boat you should buy. For example, a cabin cruiser would be best if you want to use the boat with your family and friends on long trips. You can sleep up to six people in a cabin cruiser. You should look for a liveaboard if you want to live aboard a boat. These can house two to four people and have the amenities of a home.

If you are looking for a cheap boat, you should consider buying a fishing or ski boat. A pontoon boat is a good choice if you want to go fishing or just relax in the water with family and friends. They are very stable and can hold up to ten people. You should buy a sailboat if you want to use the boat in rough weather conditions. They are very stable and can hold up to six people.

What are the prices of boats with living quarters?

The prices of boats with living quarters vary depending on the boat’s size, type, and features. However, most boats with living quarters range in price from around $75,000 to $1 million.

• Articles and Guides

Liveaboard Trawler: Living on the Water

18th mar 2023 by toi williams.

In recent years, the popularity of living on a boat has increased dramatically. If you are thinking of joining the many people who are making this move, a liveaboard trawler may be the right type of boat for you. Many boaters who want to live aboard their vessels choose liveaboard trawlers due to their strong hulls, spacious interiors, and comfortable accommodations. In this guide, we will discuss many elements of living aboard a trawler, including what a liveaboard trawler interior includes and answers to some questions in the liveaboard trawler vs. sailboat debate. 

What Is a Liveaboard Trawler?

The class of power boats known as trawlers are rugged motorboats built for deep-sea conditions and long-distance traveling. They are easily identified by their wide beams and displacement or semi-displacement hulls that may have single or twin engines. Originally designed to be fishing boats, trawlers today come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes to meet the needs of just about any boater. 

Trawlers with full displacement hull designs move through the water instead of on top of it, which makes them very seaworthy but not very fast. Designs with semi-displacement hulls still ride low in the water, but not having to push through so much water makes them a bit faster. Some trawlers have a steadying sail to reduce the rolling motion boats make while underway. Some have stoppers that can be lowered from booms extending over the sides of the boat to provide resistance to rolling on a mooring or at anchor.

Best Liveaboard Trawler

The best liveaboard trawler for you and your family will depend on how many people you will be living with and the comforts you want to enjoy on the water. Your decision will also depend on the size of boat you desire and your budget for purchasing it. 

There are currently more than 25 boat manufacturers that make liveaboard trawlers, with some sticking to the more traditional styles and others using new building practices and other innovations to create updated designs. Although there are many different models with various amenities, some boat manufacturers' vessels consistently top the lists of best liveaboard trawlers. These include Albin , Beneteau , Mainship , Nordhavn , Ocean Alexander , and Sabre . 

Advantages of Liveaboard Trawler vs. Sailboat

In the liveaboard trawler vs. sailboat debate, the liveaboard trawler has many advantages. Here are some of the reasons why a liveaboard trawler could be the better choice for you.

Wide hulls mean more personal space

The shape of a liveaboard trawler means there is more space available for roomy sleeping quarters, bigger kitchens, and storage space for all of your gear. More spacious interiors improve comfort, so the people aboard won't have to squeeze past each other all the time. Trawlers also have more headroom below deck than sailboats, adding to their comfort. 

Trawlers have high stability and easy accessibility

The shape of a trawler makes it more stable on the water than many other types of boats, resulting in a smoother ride in both calm and rough waters. It is also easy getting into and out of trawlers, making them more accessible than many sailboat styles. 

Their low draft is good for shallow waters

The draft of a liveaboard trawler is less than that of most liveaboard sailboat models. This makes it easier for them to navigate shallow waters and allows them to anchor in a wider variety of locations. Their size and shape also make it easier for them to clear most bridges without issues. 

More information:  Living on a Sailboat: Is it Right for You?

Liveaboard Trawler Interior

Liveaboard trawlers are considered some of the best boats to live on because the liveaboard trawler interior has the most living space per foot of boat length. The designs of trawlers built on full displacement hulls have excellent volume for their length and are often used for long-range cruising due to the space available for provisioning and stowage. The layouts are typically multilevel, with the living spaces on top and the sleeping quarters below.

The features and amenities of the liveaboard trawler interior will be major considerations when choosing the type of trawler that is best for your needs. Many are pretty spacious, with full-size kitchens, showers or bathtubs, full-size refrigerators, and washer and dryers. They usually have two bathrooms and can accommodate comforts like big-screen TVs and multi-speaker audio systems. They also have a sizable outdoor area and lots of natural light when the living space is above the water line. The features on each trawler will differ according to the manufacturer's specifications, but you can see many of the features available on each type of boat in Rightboat's listings. 

What Size Trawler for Liveaboard?

Again, the best size of liveaboard trawler for you will depend on the size of your family and the amenities you want. The more people living on board, the bigger boat you will need. As a general rule of thumb, the liveaboard trawler should be no less than 30 feet long for couples and no less than 40 feet long for families. For many boating families, trawlers of less than 40 feet simply don’t have the amount of living space they need to be comfortable. 

Cost of Liveaboard Trawler

The cost of liveaboard trawler boats is based on a number of factors, including the size of the boat, the materials used in its manufacture, the quality of its electronics and motor, and the amenities it includes. As a general rule, trawlers cost more per foot than the average sailboat. Liveaboard trawlers can range in price from as little as $21,000 to more than $5 million, with the average price for a new liveaboard trawler hovering around $250,000. It is important to remember that if you finance your boat, you will have a monthly mortgage to pay, just like buying a home on land. 

There are also some additional costs associated with owning a liveaboard trawler. One of them is associated with where you choose to live on your boat. Of course, the cheapest place is at anchor, which will cost you nothing, but choosing to live on a mooring ball could cost $150 monthly or more, and liveaboard slip fees can be more than $500 per month. However, slip fees come with all the benefits of living in a marina, including ample power, high-speed internet access, workshops, and shower and laundry facilities.

There is also the cost of liveaboard insurance, which can be more expensive than insurance for purely recreational boats. The cost can also vary based on whether you are cruising in local waters or intend to cruise internationally. While some boaters may choose to forgo this insurance, many boatyards will require that you have proof of insurance before they will haul your liveaboard trawler out of the water.

Liveaboard Trawler Safety

Liveaboard trawlers are considered some of the safest boats to live on for a number of reasons. They are designed to be pretty seaworthy, even in heavy seas. Their design also means that you won’t be dealing with obstacle-course side decks or bouncing decks with low handrails when the swells are large.

Liveaboard trawlers also do not have the issues that typically occur running at high speed, like mechanical problems and hitting debris. Their slower speeds put less stress on the boat and give boaters plenty of time to notice obstacles and maneuver around them. Their reduced speed is also good for navigating unfamiliar or tricky waters as boaters have more time to react to changes in the environment. 

Liveaboard Trawler Maintenance

Like any boat, a liveaboard trawler is going to have a number of maintenance needs. Power boats generally have higher maintenance costs than sailboats because of the motors and electronics needed to drive the boat efficiently. While your maintenance costs will vary based on whether you choose to do the work yourself or hire a professional for your maintenance needs, it is recommended that you budget 10% of the value of the boat annually for repairs.

On the Rightboat platform, we have a wide variety of liveaboard trawlers listed with various features that may be right for you. If a new model doesn't fit your budget, we also list previously owned models that can be acquired at a significant savings. The listings can be sorted by location, size, or a number of other factors to help you narrow down your choice. Check out the boats we have to offer today!

Related articles:

• Living on a Sailboat: Is it Right for You?
• The Best Boats to Live On Full Time
• The Best Types of Boat to Live on After Retirement
• Sleeping on a Boat: Tips for Overnight Stays
• Types of Houseboats: Different Home Styles for Living on the Water
• Is Living on a Boat Right for You? The Pros and Cons of Living on a Boat

Written By: Toi Williams

More from: Toi Williams

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How to Live on a Super Yacht

Living on a super yacht is a dream come true for many people. The luxurious lifestyle, breathtaking views, and the freedom to sail across oceans and explore exotic destinations are why owning or chartering a super yacht is often the ultimate symbol of wealth and success.

However, living on these massive boats is not just about indulging in luxury and relaxation. The lifestyle requires careful planning, organization, and adaptability.

If you want to test the waters and live at sea on a super yacht, let’s see what it takes.

Let’s dive in and get started!

What Is a Super Yacht?

A super yacht is a luxury vessel, typically over 80 feet long, for pleasure cruising. Wealthy individuals or corporations usually privately own these vessels. They come with all the amenities and features one would expect from a high-end luxury resort. 

Super yachts range from sleek and modern to classic and elegant. Construction of these units is to the highest standards of craftsmanship and engineering. They can accommodate various activities, including dining, entertainment, and water sports. 

Crews for these vessels are often a team of professionals who provide personalized services to ensure guests have the most enjoyable and comfortable experience. Overall, they’re the ultimate expression of luxury and freedom, offering unparalleled comfort and convenience to those fortunate enough to own or charter one.

Can You Legally Live on a Super Yacht?

Living on a super yacht or any other boat is generally legal. However, the rules will vary depending on where you’re attempting to live. You must follow the local regulations, whether in a country, state, city, or marina.

If you’re thinking about living in international waters, it’s not very easy. International waters typically are 24 nautical miles from a country’s coastline. It’s crucial to note that international waters are not the wild west. Most travelers in these waters must follow the laws according to the country they’re sailing under.

HOT TIP Get good internet no matter where your super yacht sails to. Learn more about using Starlink on boats .

What to Think About When Living on a Super Yacht

Living on a super yacht is an exciting and luxurious lifestyle offering the ultimate comfort, relaxation, and adventure. However, it also comes with unique challenges and considerations to make the experience enjoyable and stress-free. Let’s look at several things you must consider before living on a super yacht.

Good Boat Insurance

One of the most crucial considerations when living on a super yacht is having adequate boat insurance . Super yachts are precious assets requiring specialized insurance coverage beyond what standard marine insurance policies typically provide.

Since your super yacht will be your floating home, you must acquire adequate coverage for your vessel. Coverage and premiums will vary depending on the vessel’s value, onboard equipment, and personal belongings.

It would be best to work with an experienced insurance provider when acquiring your insurance policy. This can help ensure you don’t have any surprises should you need to file a claim. 

Living Expenses

Like living in a sticks-and-bricks home, you will have living expenses while on a super yacht. You must cover onboard amenities and supplies, docking and berthing fees, fuel, and crew salaries for those helping to manage and maintain it. 

Captains, engineers, deckhands, attendants, chefs, and other employees will have salaries and benefits packages. These will be ongoing expenses that you’ll need to consider. 

Yacht Maintenance

We hate to be the bearers of bad news, but even if you spend millions on your super yacht, things will break. You must do regular inspections, scheduled maintenance, and repairs promptly. 

Unfortunately, things don’t always break when it’s convenient. So you will need a healthy stack of cash to replace parts and components when they unexpectedly break. If not, you could be stuck at the marina.

Unseen Weather Conditions

The weather conditions can be incredibly unpredictable. However, weather conditions at sea are more than worrying about how much rain or lightning you’ll experience. Severe weather can significantly impact water conditions. The weather can change quickly at sea, and you must constantly stay aware of the weather forecasts.

You must have an emergency plan and a staff trained in responding. A super yacht offers the flexibility to move when weather conditions may not cooperate. You may have to adjust your itinerary or plans, so that flexibility will be crucial in this lifestyle.

Yacht Registration

Just like you must register your vehicle, a super yacht will also require registration. Where you register your vessel will determine the taxes and fees associated with registering a yacht. Additionally, where you register your craft will also determine the legal requirements your vessel must meet.

You need to understand the legal requirements, taxes and fees, and other factors associated with yacht registration. This allows you to make informed decisions that meet your needs, preferences, and those of your staff or anyone onboard the yacht.

Safety and Security

When living on a super yacht, safety and security are critical items you must take seriously. While yachts typically come with many safety features and security systems, there are still potential risks and threats that you must address.

It is vital to take proactive steps to mitigate potential risks and threats. The vessel will need the appropriate safety and security systems, and the crew will need training in basic procedures and protocols to keep everyone, including the vessel, safe and secure.

Living In International Waters

International waters are outside of the jurisdiction of any specific country, and they present opportunities and challenges for those living on a super yacht. Understanding the legal requirements and regulatory authorities is essential to ensure you comply with laws and regulations.

Living in international waters will require a tremendous amount of self-sufficiency. Accessing supplies, services, and emergency assistance can be challenging. You’ll also need the proper navigation and equipment to communicate with other vessels and the appropriate authorities.

While Jack Sparrow may not be on the open seas, pirates exist. You cannot take your safety and security too seriously when staying safe on international waters. You’ll likely want to consider hiring security personnel and avoid cruising into high-risk areas.

What Are the Pros of Living on a Super Yacht?

There is a long list of pros to living on a super yacht. It’s one of the most luxurious lifestyles imaginable. The level of service that individuals receive onboard these vessels is unlike anything most people will ever experience.

Life on a super yacht provides much freedom and flexibility. You can travel practically anywhere and make the world your playground. You can create your schedule and choose where to set the sails daily.

The lifestyle can be incredibly relaxing and rewarding. You’ll experience new cultures, taste exciting foods, and meet people with equally exciting adventures. Who wouldn’t love that?

HOT TIP Just because you live on a super yacht doesn’t mean you won’t get mail! Find out How to Get Mail Sailing Around the World .

The Cons of Living on a Super Yacht

While there is much to love about living on a super yacht, it’s not perfect. The lifestyle is costly, and you must deal with limited space. Additionally, you have to manage the crew’s dynamics, which can be challenging. Unfortunately, you can’t force anyone to walk the plank if they cause a fuss amongst the staff.

Don’t forget that you could experience days of rough seas. This could result in experiencing seasickness. The vessel will constantly be floating on the water and can be challenging for those prone to seasickness.

Does Living on a Super Yacht Cost Less Than in a House? 

Living on a super yacht is typically more expensive than living in a traditional house or apartment. Super yachts are costly to purchase or charter, and they also require ongoing maintenance, crew salaries, and other expenses that can add up quickly. 

While it is possible to save money on specific expenses, like property taxes and mortgage payments, the overall cost of living on a super yacht is typically higher than living in a traditional home or apartment. There are often additional costs associated with living on a super yacht that may not be present in a conventional home, like higher fuel prices and the fees for maintaining and repairing complex systems and equipment.

How luxurious you expect your lifestyle will significantly determine whether it’s more or less expensive than a house. However, it’s crucial to remember that yachts are typically depreciating assets and require substantial maintenance to retain their value.

Is Living on a Super Yacht Worth It?

Living on a super yacht can be a fun and exciting way to live. However, it will take a pile of cash. The lifestyle can be incredibly unpredictable, dangerous, and expensive. Severe weather conditions at sea can threaten you, your vessels, and any crew or passengers on board. Before you sell your home and move into a boat, make sure you fully consider the entire lifestyle.

Would you live on a super yacht full-time?

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Where to liveaboard: the best cities and marinas to live and boat.

Post by Janelle Cox - Published on 07/20/21 12:30 PM

For some, deciding on a permanent homeport will come down to location, but it’s not necessarily a matter of which places are “better” or “nicer” than others. That’s subjective. The choice you make will ultimately rely on your wants, needs, and dealbreakers. You might be looking for vibrant city life, a little southern charm, a sunny island escape, or a combination of it all.

Boston, Massachusetts

Constitution Marina: Located in Boston’s Inner Harbor, you’re just a 5-minute walk from the Boston Garden and the North Station transit line, which gives you access to the entire city, including Logan Airport and the New Encore Boston Harbor Casino and outer neighborhoods. Each summer, Constitution Marina becomes the destination of choice for boaters from around New England and beyond.

Boston Waterboat Marina: Located on historic Long Wharf in Boston Harbor, Boston Waterboat Marina is just steps from Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, New England Aquarium, and countless world-class restaurants. Charm and spectacular views punctuate this quiet and safe marina. As the city’s oldest continually operating yachting facility, Boston Waterboat Marina prides itself on offering small-town hospitality with big city convenience. 

Newport, Rhode Island

If you’ve ever been to Newport , it’s easy to see why the “City by the Sea” is such a popular destination for boaters. This seaside community is located on the southern end of Aquidneck Island in Narragansett Bay and is known as the world’s sailing capital. Not only will you find some of the best beaches in the Northeast, but the town also has a wide array of attractions, from the historic mansions to annual music festivals and the best restaurants and bars.

Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard: In the heart of the celebrated Sailing Capital of the World, Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard surrounds the colonial captains’ homes, cozy eateries, and seaside boutiques that line the streets of downtown Newport. The international sailing community makes it the preeminent home port for the most prestigious yachting events in the world.

Bowen’s Wharf: This award-winning, first-class marina is conveniently located amidst the bustling downtown area. With shoreside activities, tours, galleries, locally-owned shops, bars, and world-class restaurants, you’re steps away from the action.

Chesapeake Bay, Maryland

Anchorage Marina: Conveniently located in Baltimore City, Anchorage Marina is just minutes from the Inner Harbor, where you’ll find restaurants, entertainment, and shopping within walking distance. By water, the Anchorage is situated on the Northwest Harbor of the Patapsco River, just one mile inside of Fort McHenry, one of many historic sites in the area.

Eastport Yacht Center: EYC is a full-service marina located near downtown Annapolis. You’re a 10-minute walk, or water taxi ride to all the historic city has to offer.

Miami, Florida

Vice City Marina: Vice City Marina is located in the heart of Downtown Miami, just two blocks from Brickell City Center. The Marina boasts the best location in Miami, with numerous hotels and restaurants within walking distance.

Sunset Harbour Yacht Club: SHYC is ideally located in the heart of South Beach, within walking distance to all of the attractions, including Lincoln Road, the Miami Beach Convention Center, the Jackie Gleason Theatre, and Ocean Drive.

Tampa/St. Petersburg, Florida

Safe Harbor Harborage Marina: The first and only full-service mega yacht port on Florida’s west coast, Harborage Marina combines meticulous personal care with easy access to boundless area attractions. Unwind by the resort-style pool, then meet up with friends for cocktails at their casual Tiki Hut or dine at one of St. Petersburg’s many fine restaurants.

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is where southern hospitality, rich history, and city-dwelling meet. As one of the most affordable cities to live or retire on this list and beyond, it’s known for its gorgeous city parks, upcoming food scene, coastal beaches, diverse neighborhoods, and more. You can also expect a temperate climate with warm, humid summers and mild winters.

Bull River Marina: Bull River Marina is in the middle of a boating & fishing paradise. They offer sunset cruises, beach drops, and downtown Savannah tours by water. Their boater’s lounge is an excellent place to hang out.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is walkable and bikeable, with quaint neighborhoods scattered throughout its 17 square miles. This historic city has it all, from the rich history and beautiful architecture to world-class restaurants, nightlife, and stunning beaches.

Safe Harbor Charleston City: Safe Harbor Charleston City is home to the famed Mega Dock, which hosts some of the most prestigious yachts in the world. As a premier boating destination, the marina’s state-of-the-art facilities and unmatched southern hospitality are merely the beginning. They also offer van drop-offs and pick-ups to downtown during operating hours.

Cooper River Marina: Just 15-minutes away from the historic downtown Charleston area, the Cooper River Marina is an excellent facility for recreational and transient boaters.

San Diego, California

Sunny San Diego is conceivably the best choice for west coast liveaboards. Not only will you find surf and sand, but you’ll find scenic nature views across some of the best hiking trails in the United States. You’re also a sail away from other hot spot destinations like Catalina, La Paz, Cabo, and more.

Sun Harbor Marina: Sun Harbor Marina is the world’s first LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified marina. At this green marina, boaters enjoy the marina’s proximity to the Scott St. maritime district and its marine-based businesses, shops, and restaurants. This San Diego marina boasts beautiful facilities, which are well maintained using ecologically sensitive practices. Boaters also enjoy quick access to San Diego Bay and the open waters of the Pacific Ocean for boating enjoyment.

Harbor Island West Marina: Located less than a mile from the San Diego International Airport and just around the corner from the sites and activities of the beautiful Embarcadero and the action of downtown’s Gaslamp District, experience the warm, friendly community of San Diego’s Harbor Island West Marina, your gateway to the Bay. 

Half Moon Marina: Half Moon Marina is also a short drive from all of San Diego’s most popular attractions, including the Downtown Gaslamp Quarter, SeaWorld, San Diego Zoo, and San Diego’s famous beaches. Go for their summer concerts or to gain access to the San Diego Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Either way, you know you’ve landed in a special place when you come to their marina.

The Bahamas

Why you’d take up a permanent residence in the Bahamas requires little to no explanation. Made up of nearly 700 islands, the relaxed lifestyle, white sand beaches, and warm, crystal blue waters make it a dream destination and home for many.

Saint Francis Resort and Marina: Located in a very protected cove of Stocking Island, St Francis Resort and Marina is one of the best hurricane holes of The Bahamas. There is a full-service resort with a restaurant and bar on site. 

Cape Eleuthera Resort & Marina: Long favored by cruisers, sailors, divers, and anglers, the Cape Eleuthera Resort & Marina is a destination of choice for Out Island travelers.

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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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Four Seasons Unveils First Yacht Itineraries and Suite Interiors

By Jessica Puckett

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Four Seasons loyalists have a lot to be excited about, with the launch of the brand’s first yacht nearing in 2026.

The 14-deck luxury vessel, which is partly being modeled off of Aristotle Onassis’ iconic yacht Christina O , will offer some of the most opulent amenities at sea. Initial renderings released in October 2023 show a 66-foot saltwater pool, a marina deck built for swimming and watersports, sophisticated dining concepts, and 95 guest suites. Now, the Four Seasons has released the first renderings showcasing the spacious suites on board—and we got a first look.

The ship's sleek design seeks to translate “the Four Seasons guest experience in terms of comfort level and the luxury standards" to life at sea, Fredrik Johannson, partner and executive director of Tillberg Design of Sweden and the lead designer on the Four Seasons Yacht, tells Condé Nast Traveler. Even the hotel group’s beloved mattresses will be offered in every room.

The first renderings of the Four Season Yacht's suites were released Tuesday, showcasing spacious guest rooms with ocean views.

Also just revealed: the first destinations the yacht will call upon throughout its inaugural year. Passengers can expect to visit a wide variety of exclusive and jet-setting locales, as the yacht is slated to visit more than 130 destinations across 30 countries in its first year alone. And of course, guests will have the option to book pre-and-post cruise extensions at iconic Four Seasons resorts along the way.

“We’re incredibly proud to announce the first itineraries aboard Four Seasons Yachts, and know that these experiences will exceed our guest expectations when we set sail in 2026,” says Alejandro Reynal, Four Seasons President and CEO.

Each voyage calls upon small ports that are typically considered “yacht playgrounds," Thatcher Brown, the Chief Commercial Officer at Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings LTD and co-owner of Four Seasons Yachts, tells Traveler. Passengers can expect to sail between Caribbean and Mediterranean coastal havens almost exclusively visited by private vessels .

When the yacht launches in January 2026, it will first head to the Caribbean, where it will complete seven-night, island-hopping itineraries between St. Barths, Nevis, the Grenadines, St Lucia, Barbados, Martinique, Guadeloupe, Curaçao, and Aruba.

Then in March 2026, the ship will cross the Atlantic and begin sailing its Grand Mediterranean voyages , which include visits to alluring towns in Croatia, Gibraltar, Montenegro, Italy, Portugal, Spain, and Turkey. Travelers can also expect to access “under-the-radar” Greek islands , like Ios and Milos, as well as more popular Grecian destinations like Athens and Santorini, according to a Four Seasons release.

Guests will have the option to adjoin suites to accommodate families or other groups traveling together.

Sure the destinations sound glamorous—but it might be difficult for passengers to depart the ship and leave behind the luxe accommodations on board. Specifically the guest suites—which will offer 50% more living space per guest than any other competitor currently at sea, according to the company’s release.

Each space will offer floor-to-ceiling windows framing views of the sea, bathrooms with double vanities, and large closets. “Almost every single bed on this whole yacht is facing the sea,” Johannson says. “All the rooms there have this clarity to them. They are very exclusive, but they have a beautiful simplicity.”

Every suite will also offer private outdoor terraces. What’s more: guests will have the option to adjoin suites to accommodate families or other groups traveling together. There are more than 100 different adjoining configurations, including the option to reserve the entire side of a deck—an opportunity that would afford a group of travel companions more than 13,000 square feet of living space.

The Four Seasons Yacht will be divided between Funnel and Loft Suites, each with private outdoor terraces.

But the true showstopper on board is sure to be the Funnel Suite. Located on the very top deck where the funnel or smokestack would traditionally be, the Funnel Suite is essentially the ship’s penthouse, spanning four floors and 9,975 square feet. The massive space will feature three bedrooms and a terrace with outdoor dining space, splash pool, and outdoor showers. But the suite’s best amenity will be its views. The four-story, floor-to-ceiling windows have been fitted with the largest piece of contiguous curved glass at sea, offering sweeping 280-degree views of the ocean as the yacht sails from port to port.

Voyages on board the Four Seasons yacht haven’t yet opened for general booking, but interested travelers can join the yacht’s waitlist in hopes of securing one of the elegant suites on the 2026 itineraries.

They moved into floating homes and houseboats — and discovered a world of adventure and hidden expenses

• Forget buying a home on land — some people are heading for rivers and lakes instead.
• They're investing in floating houses, houseboats, and narrowboats.
• While the lifestyle has perks, it's not necessarily cheaper than owning a house on land.

Moving into their 360-square-foot floating home a year ago was a dream come true for Sarah Spiro and Brandon Jones.

The house, located on Fontana Lake in North Carolina, has loft-style interiors with high ceilings and windows all around.

"I just love that no matter what you're doing, you can look out the window and have this super peaceful view — even if you're just doing dishes," Spiro, 27, told Business Insider.

Spiro and Jones spent $90,000 building their floating home and say it would have been difficult to buy a house on land for that price. They pay a $5,000 annual mooring fee for their floating home.

Now, they can't imagine returning to life on land.

"I guess it depends on the person, but for us, we would never go back," she said. "It beats living on land."

Embracing life on the water

Living on water is big on social media, where it's spawned popular hashtags like #houseboat and #narrowboatlife , and helped push creators like Adam Lind of @adam.floatinghome to extreme visibility.

It's also a part of the alternate living movement that sees people choosing to stay in tiny houses , homes on wheels , or other forms of housing over traditional brick-and-mortar homes.

National data on the number of people who live in floating homes, houseboats, and narrowboats is hard to come by as there isn't a single authority responsible for tracking all these housing forms across the US.

However, regional data suggests the lifestyle is still quite niche.

In 2023, there were 70 floating home sales reported on the Regional Multiple Listing Service, or RMLS, which covers the Portland area and a significant part of northwest Oregon, Portland Floating Homes real-estate broker John McPherson told BI.

In the case of houseboats, US inventory is highest in the cities of Portland and Seattle, with an average of 47 and 23 monthly listings in 2023 respectively, per data provided by Realtor.com.

The cities with the next highest houseboat listings are Scappoose, Oregon, Sausalito, California, and Johns Island, South Carolina — each had between five and 10 houseboat listings per month in 2023, per data from Realtor.com.

Comprehensive data on the trend abroad is similarly hard to find.

The Canal & River Trust, which looks after 2,000 miles of canals and rivers across England & Wales, told BI there are about 34,760 boats along its waterways. Of those, 21% describe themselves as "liveaboard."

A punishing housing market is driving people to alternatives

Elizabeth Earle lives in a narrowboat that she bought for £35,000, or about $44,000, in 2022. She previously told BI's Jordan Pandy that the lifestyle was the least expensive way for her to buy a home in the UK.

"The price for a house in England is a bit ridiculous at the moment," Earle, 34, said. "Even if you're able to save £200 a month, how on earth are you going to save £20,000 towards a mortgage? It feels so unattainable compared to how our parents did it."

Earle's comments echo true across much of her generation around the world.

Millennials are saddled with debt, struggling to build up their net worths , and getting priced out of cities. Some are moving in with their parents because they can't afford to live on their own.

Houses are also getting more expensive . In the US, most major forecasts predict that home prices could rise between 1.4% and 4.1% in 2024.

And while millennials might be suffering the most in the real-estate market, people of all ages are among those seeking out a life on the water.

"What I have observed is that a lot of buyers seem to be in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. Some are in their 70s," McPherson said.

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It's often people who are downsizing and want to do something specifically for themselves now that they're older — which is enjoy the river, the views, and boating, he added.

"Housing has become increasingly unaffordable for many Americans because of historic high prices coupled with mortgage rates approaching 8%," Daryl Fairweather, Redfin's chief economist, told BI. "This is mainly due to the intense housing supply shortage in the US — we're short millions of homes, which is driving up costs."

A recent survey by Realtor.com also found that more than half of potential home buyers were second-guessing their plans to buy a home, Hannah Jones, a senior economic research analyst at Realtor.com, told BI.

"The relatively high barrier to homeownership may push would-be buyers towards renting for longer or seeking out  alternative living arrangements  to save money for a home purchase," Jones said.

Hidden costs

But if slashing expenses is the goal, life on the water might not be the answer.

"I wouldn't say that owning a floating house is much cheaper than owning a typical house on land, but it is a much lower-priced alternative to owning waterfront property in Portland," McPherson said.

Home insurance for a floating house tends to be about double what it is for a regular house on land, McPherson said. Most floating-home owners also have to pay a monthly fee to either rent or maintain the slip their house is in.

Additionally, the float — the part of the floating house that's equivalent to a foundation — deteriorates over time, McPherson said.

"Depending on what needs to be done, maintenance could cost around $10,000 or so," McPherson said. If a float is too old, it needs to be replaced — and it's not a do-it-yourself kind of job.

"Currently, to replace a float it could cost approximately $80,000 to $130,000 — or even more, depending on the size of the house and what exactly needs to be done," he said.

Laura Woodley, 35, took out a loan to buy a narrowboat in the UK in 2020. Her repayments cost about £650, or $810, a month.

"Many people think that I'm living on a boat to save money, but I actually spend more than I did when I was renting, although I now live alone instead of with roommates," Woodley previously told BI.

A boat license, heating expenses, and maintenance costs add up to roughly another £425 a month — and that's without emergency payments.

"A couple of winters ago, half of my chimney fell off, and my heating broke, and I had to pay £700 to fix it," Woodley said. "Living on a narrowboat is not as simple as having a set of fixed monthly expenses like you would if you lived in a house."

Value in the lifestyle and the community

Money aside, the lifestyle has perks.

"It's a very serene and calm way of life compared to downtown," Kate Fincham, 35, told BI . Her houseboat is moored in Bluffers Park Marina, about 30 minutes from downtown Toronto.

"There are lots of woodlands and trails by the water, and two beaches as well," Fincham added. She spends her summer mornings kayaking on the lake.

Lily Rose, 32, lives on a houseboat on Lake Union in Seattle with her husband Dylan.

"Having ducklings and goslings pay us visits in the late spring and early summer months has been a big highlight of our time on the houseboat," Rose said.

"We enjoy taking our paddleboards out for a quick lunch break during the week or cruising down to the south end of Lake Union in our little 11-foot Boston Whaler to watch the Duck Dodge sailboat races in the summer," Rose added.

For Fincham, there's value in the community and freedom she's found through the houseboat lifestyle.

"I think it's always kind of inspiring for people to think, 'Oh, I don't have to save up to buy a condo,' or whatever. There are alternate avenues and ways to live, too," Fincham said.

Houseboat life has helped her bond with her neighbors.

"The neighbors, we're all very close, and there are always activities and game nights, movie nights, or people going for dinner together," she said. When she lived in a house downtown, she barely knew the people who lived around her.

"You need to be able to roll with the punches," Fincham said. "Sometimes it's not the easiest way of life, but I always think, for me, it's the best way of life."

Watch: Inside the most expensive neighborhoods of Singapore, home to TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew

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More From Forbes

Yeti: yacht scoring tool engages feadship, heesen and industry leaders.

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Can superyachts effectively carve their carbon emissions down to net zero? Perhaps. YETI wants to ... [+] give it a go with the sustainability index.

Is YETI a hairy Himalayan, or a beloved cooler? In this case, neither. This YETI is a five-year-old with a big idea. A science-based, data-driven one, first conceived five years ago by Feadship Senior Design Specialist Bram Jongepier, now embraced by most of the industry's leaders. This YETI, Yacht Environmental Transparency Index, is designed to score and compare yachts based on how well they play with others, namely, the environment.

“Zero doesn’t exist,” Jongepier stated, acknowledging that zero impact is simply impossible. Aiming at what is, in fact, possible, Jongepier explained, “You cannot walk on grass without some degree of impact, but you can do it sustainably if you give the grass time to recover.” And that, confirms Jongepier, is how we should treat our oceans.

The group meeting in 2019 to further plans for YETI, the Yacht Environmental Transparency Index, as ... [+] a way to score and compare yachts based on environmental credentials was embraced by representatives of the yachting industry's top groups.

“Sustainability is essential,” Jan-Bart Verkuyl, Feadship Director/CEO of Royal Van Lent Shipyard. “There is pressure from our clients, there is pressure from ourselves, there is pressure from our workers, there is pressure from our children. It needs to be done,” Verkuyl states emphatically. And so, they did it.

YETI Takes Shape and Water Revolution Foundation Takes The Lead

As that original group took Jongpier's 2018 idea and put together YETI 1.0, the first index, they handed the reins to the Water Revolution Foundation for follow through. By 2020, operational yacht profiles were analyzed and defined based on an AIS study using 297 years of data from 100 yachts.

The YETI 1.0 index score is awarded based on data input, allowing future yacht designs to benefit ... [+] from the results and comparisons to be made.

By 2021, a sail correction was developed, a shore power study conducted, and upstream diesel assessed, adding important details to the index. By 2022, YETI 1.0 launched, adding an engine and generator study for the YETI database, and a fleet review was conducted for 60 yachts. Awaiting the arrival of YETI 2.0, yacht designers, builders, and buyers are embracing this tool to help make yachting more sustainable.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, feadship’s strategic roadmap.

Feadship, long an industry leader, has a plan for net-zero CO2 emission and minimal local pollution impact by 2030. Their 84.20-meter full diesel electric yacht Obsidian is equipped with architecture to run on HVO. Well beyond regulatory compliance, the yacht achieved the net zero CO2 target in 2023. Feadship concept Dunes expects to reduce environmental impact by 95 percent compared to current minimum compliance for yachts using methanol fuel cells.

Rendering of the Feadship yacht Obsidian, which will operate with 27% less total environmental ... [+] impact than a yacht of similar size launched only five years ago if run on fossil fuel, and 60% less when using HVO.

It's The Fuel, Stupid!

In February of 2023, Feadship posted an informative article on sustainability , essentially creating a verbal Venn diagram focused on the intersection of superyachts and the environment using the above headline. Feadship lines out that efficiency gains and emissions reduction cannot make sufficient change. Since the laws of nature cannot be cheated, further reductions must come from using different fuels.

Feadship busts the myth that are no suitable alternative fuels available, or that their yachts cannot use them. Although harder to find and more expensive, HVO offers a real drop-in alternative that immediately reduces CO2 emissions. Volvo Penta says that their diesel engines have been compatible with HVO since 2016, seeing it as a stable, high-quality fuel suitable for marine power systems that can lower fossil CO2 emissions by up to 90 percent, depending on the feedstock.

HVO vs Other Fuels

HVO is hydrotreated vegetable oil, sourced from vegetables or animals. Sometimes it is simply cooking oil, recycled and hydrotreated to address bacterial growth and stability. Made from paraffinic oil hydrocarbons, it is also called renewable diesel or green diesel.

Like diesel, HVO has similar chemical and physical properties, but with its fossil-free composition and low carbon content, it is an appealing sustainable fuel option. HVO can be blended in any proportion with diesel fuel. With regard to HVO and biodiesel, they both come from the same feedstocks, but the hydrotreatment of HVO and improved oxidation stability make it a higher quality fuel.

HVO A Short-Term Solution

As Methanol and Hydrogen technologies improve, Feadship sees HVO as an immediate but temporary solution that can significantly lower the impact of a yacht due to energy use. As methanol and hydrogen fuel cells evolve in preparation for installation and use on board superyachts, the use of HVO offers a quick and easy way to improve a yacht’s environmental profile.

While it may be harder to source and may cost a bit more, Jan-Bart Verkuyl, Feadship Director and CEO of Royal Van Lent Shipyard is adamant. "If we don't do it, we become complacent," Verkuyl concludes.

Heesen Yachts Also On Board with YETI

Erik van Mourik, Manager of Cost and Accounting at Heesen, has also been part of the original team working to get YETI up and running. Van Mourik stated that Heesen hoped to learn more about energy use while exchanging knowledge with other participants so they could understand where and how to save energy and improve their yachts.

The hybrid propulsion superyacht, Home, manufactured by Heesen Yacht Builders BV, sits dockside ... [+] during the Monaco Yacht Show (MYS) in Port Hercules, Monaco. Photographer: Balint Porneczi/Bloomberg

Assigning tasks to different groups, the reports came back to provide data that would build YETI 1.o. Heesen noted that one discovery from this data found that the hotel load of a yacht is a key factor. Under power just 5-10 percent of the time, hotel loads operate continuously while the yacht is occupied, making things like air conditioning, electronics, lighting, and spa bubbles important to energy use.

Heesen is already bringing the YETI tool into its standard build process, putting it to use in comparing yachts, reducing emissions, and directing new designs for a variety of elements.

How To Score On YETI

Can YETI help yacht owners drive down their footprint? This science-based, data-driven index thinks ... [+] it can.

With the goal of stimulating technologies that reduce energy demand and enhance system efficiency, YETI’s comparison index embraces everything from flow optimization, propeller efficiency, and displacement to heat recovery, insulation, recycling, sustainable sourcing, underwater noise and more.

It is free to request a yacht score. For a reasonable fee, The Water Revolution Foundation will do a complete analysis of the results and provide owners with important ways to reduce emissions. A full description of the YETI index, its credibility, and how to obtain a score are laid out in the YETI brochure .

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Niche has released its list of the best places to live in the United States for 2024.

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However, several neighborhoods in Tampa — Uptown, Harbour Island and Hyde Park — also managed to rank within the top 25.

In Central Florida, Orlando’s Audubon Park ranked at No. 22, featuring the following grades:

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“Living in Audubon Park offers residents a sparse urban feel, and most residents own their homes,” the website says. “In Audubon Park, there are a lot of bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks.”

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Anthony, a graduate of the University of Florida, joined ClickOrlando.com in April 2022.

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