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The True Cost of Living on a Sailboat: Our Monthly Expenses

pin of of man standing on front of catamaran holding onto jib rigging looking out at horizon

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Catamaran at anchor on the water

How much does it cost to live on a boat? This was my biggest question when we were planning and saving to cruise. I was clueless when it came to creating a budget for our future life aboard. I was looking for someone to tell me exactly how much it would cost ME to live on a sailboat full-time.

I quickly learned some people cruise for less than $1,000 a month and some for upwards of $10,000 a month. Most are somewhere between.

Not so dissimilar from living on land, different people cruise on all sorts of budgets.

For us, our cost of living on a sailboat isn’t so far from our land-based spending.

Part of this journey was learning to live with less, but we still maintain some creature comforts on the water.

Here is a breakdown of our cost of living on a boat full-time while cruising the US east coast.

Cost to Live on a Sailboat

pie chart of cost of living on a sailboat

Average cost of $2,424 per month*

Sailboat Maintenance Expenses

Average cost $1,006.

Sunnyside captain working in bilge on the sump pump

Maintenance, Parts & Tools ($687)

It’s no surprise boat maintenance is top of the list.

You will continuously be fixing broken things or maintaining things on a sailboat. You will also need different tools, spare parts, cleaners, etc., as you cruise.

There will be months when you won’t need much in the way of tools and parts (especially if you already have a lot of tools and spare parts onboard). Then in one month, you might spend 40% of the annual budget.

We make a strong effort to do most boat projects ourselves.

Shortly after we began cruising, our wallets learned the hard truth of paying people to work on your boat.

Since then, we’ve been our own plumber, mechanic, seamstress, and electrician.

You’ll always be learning. But if you can maintain and fix your vessel, you’ll save boatloads of cash (pun intended, I couldn’t resist).

READ NEXT: Check out our 9 Helpful Things You Need in Your Sailboat Tool Kit .

Insurance ($233).

If you are a newbie cruiser, your boat insurance options will most likely be limited. Insurance was a considerable expense in our first year. In our second year, the cost dropped from 2.8% of the boat’s value to 1.3%. (We now have restricted cruising grounds for July – November.)

Do your research and consider using a broker. Get quotes based on where you’ll be cruising and staying in hurricane season.

Miscellaneous ($86)

The miscellaneous category is everything else boat-related. This includes any small purchases we make for the boat (ex. rug for the salon), our USCG documentation, Amazon Prime membership, etc.

We also have a Boat US membership , which more than pays for itself. We get dockage and fuel discounts often. And, of course, the towing service is priceless when you run aground with only one engine. (What, just me?)

For a modest fee, this membership is a no-brainer for boat owners.

Marinas vs. Anchoring

Average cost $339.

Sailboat at anchor with dinghy behind it at sunset

Marina Costs

If you’ve been researching the cost of living on a boat, you know it is more economical to anchor than to dock in a marina slip. We love anchoring out, but it does come with a set of variables that dictate comfort and safety while you’re on the hook. Not to mention, it requires a lot more planning.

Marinas can be expensive, especially in popular cruising areas. Dockage is usually charged per foot, so the bigger the boat, the higher the costs associated with docking fees. However, you can find liveaboard boat marinas with slip fees that are paid monthly.

Many cruisers prefer to dock at a liveaboard marina during hurricane season and save anchoring for cruising season. This allows you to keep your cost per night at marinas down, and your overall costs balance out throughout the year.

READ NEXT: Check out our post on Liveaboard Marinas: Finding the Best One for You .

Anchoring challenges.

Dreaming of our cruising days, I had the idea we would anchor out and rarely pay for marinas.

In reality, that’s not what worked for us out of the gate. Being beginner sailors and newbies to cruising and boats in general – there was an enormous learning curve.

Learning to live this lifestyle is not always easy. And yes, marinas make it easier. Especially when you REALLY need it to be easier.

Anchoring out requires the captain to always be “on”. You must be aware of the weather, wind direction, currents, and tides. You also have to be aware of the boats around you. None of this stops when you leave the boat or when you sleep.

The reality is you need to slowly become more comfortable living on the hook.

With experience, you can build more confidence.

You’ll become more comfortable with boat systems, weather, and making repairs while on the anchor. Conserving power and water becomes more natural, and you learn how to stay warm in the cold and cool off in hot weather. With some practice, you can spend less time (and money) at marinas.

For folks dreaming of this lifestyle, I’m not saying you won’t be able to start living on the anchor immediately. But the stress level accompanying living on the hook will lower with time and experience.

Average Cost $449

Provisions are consistently one of our most significant expenses on the boat.

Anticipating my new life on the water, I knew I wanted to learn more about cooking, baking, and making things from scratch. And since we planned to live on a smaller budget, I also wanted to be conscious of spending on food.

A game I often play with myself is to see how long we can go until the next big provisioning trip.

Buddha bowls with lettuce, carrots, peppers, chickpeas, tomatoes and hummus

You might be thinking – that sounds miserable. But we eat pretty darn well most of the time.

We ration veggies and fruits, ensuring we leave the hardiest for last. We start with fresh salads and other raw veggie meals, such as cilantro hummus bowls. As the freshest veggies thin out, we work our way to curries and stir-fries. Then, when the fridge grows empty, we move on to rice and bean dishes, pineapple and jalapeño pizza, and bean tacos with pickled onions and cabbage.

One skillset you develop living on a boat is the ability to eat more sustainably.

Learning to make bread, yogurt, and vegetable broth from scraps is super satisfying.

Spend time learning to make flexible meals. Use a balance of fresh, canned, and dried ingredients. Do this, and you can stretch your provisioning budget without sacrificing flavor.

You can also save money by minimizing disposables, such as paper towels, sandwich bags, plastic wrap, and aluminum foil.

READ NEXT: Check out our ideas for Flexible Meals on a Boat and our Best Zero Waste Swaps for Small Spaces .

Having sundowners is a bit of a staple in the boating community. It’s a common way to meet and greet other boaters in a marina or in an anchorage. Given that, we always like to have a few extra beers onboard or the ingredients for a simple cocktail.

We love good wine, but we managed to find some enjoyable boxed wines. (Bonus, lose the boxes at the dock, and there’s very little trash to contend with.)

Sunnyside crew on beach with beers

When we find a deal, we stock up on beer. Nothing hits the spot like a cold beer after the anchor drops. We even discovered a reasonably priced rum we enjoy. (No boat is complete without rum!)

Expenses here are based on personal taste. For us, it was possible to have more affordable beverages and still enjoy sundowner traditions!

Average Cost $233

Sunnyside crew member enjoying a seafood platter at a restaurant

As a couple who dined out regularly in our Colorado ski town, it was going to be tough to start cooking three meals a day living aboard.

I read a lot of advice that said, “if you like eating out, you probably won’t stop eating out because you move on a boat.”

There is truth to this. Whenever we are in a place where eating out is convenient, we tend to fall back into old habits.

However, when we dock in remote places or anchor away from shore access, there is less (or no) opportunity to eat out.

Instead, we experiment with different types of food to make meals onboard rewarding.

We still enjoy going out to experience the local cuisine, but it has become a treat instead of how we live.

A great way to cut costs is by dining out for a late lunch rather than dinner or skipping the alcohol. Opting for a refreshing drink on the trampoline while watching the sunset isn’t a bad way to close out a night.

Average Cost $103

Sunnyside boat captain driving the dinghy

Diesel, gas, and propane are three resources you will continuously be aware of while living on a boat.

Here are a few adjustments we make to maximize our fuel efficiency.

  • We use our sails. This isn’t easy as new sailors on a big boat. We have slowly become more confident, but it took us months of traveling on the water to start getting comfortable using the sails. We are still learning.
  • We don’t put ourselves in a position where we are in a hurry or have a schedule. This almost always leads to running the engines more.
  • We run on one engine. We can run one engine instead of two on our catamaran and only lose about 1 – 1.5 knots. On the ICW, we unfurl the jib to improve speed if the wind is right.
  • We always make sure to travel at an optimal time for the current. Some areas of the Intercoastal Waterway can have a current that’s pushing 2-3 knots. Choosing a departure time around the current makes a big difference in travel time and fuel efficiency. 
  • Heating water with the electric kettle if the engines are running or we are on shore power.
  • Using hot water from the engines (when we have it) to get water boiling.
  • When cooking pasta, we use a minimal amount of water. We’ll often turn the propane off and let the noodles finish cooking in the hot water.
  • Quality cookware makes a big difference. Once brought to a boil, some dishes can finish cooking with the lid on. This is helpful when coming into an anchorage. Often, I’ll kill the propane, and by the time we are anchored, dinner is ready.
  • If we plan to make a few trips to shore, we’ll anchor closer to the dinghy dock. This doesn’t always work out, but being conscious of it has helped us stretch our gas budget.
  • If it’s a short trip to the dock and we aren’t carrying supplies, we use the kayak. Paddling is free (and fun)!

Average Cost $140

Working on the computer on the boat

When we were saving for the cruising kitty, we found ways to cut our mobile bill by using data on our home and work WiFi. When we moved aboard, our phone plan became the primary internet source. We quickly realized we would need to rethink our data plan.

There are a lot of options for unlimited data in the US, as well as hotspot data. I recommend having at least unlimited mobile data for research and logistics involved when cruising. If you need to work from the boat, you may also want to invest in an additional mobile service as backup or satellite internet. Starlink is starting to become popular in the boating community.

Our Mobile Plan

While cruising the east coast, we use T-Mobile. With this carrier, we get unlimited data and 40GB of hotspot data each month (20GB per phone). This is on the pricier end, and we have been looking into other options, but we enjoy having the hotspot data. Even after the 40GB, we still have hotspot data at 2G. When we cruise the Bahamas, we are planning to use My Island WiFi service .

Entertainment

Average cost $23.

TV with streaming services loaded on the screen

This category is for consumable entertainment since most other entertainment on the water is free.

Music, movies, and books are popular forms of entertainment onboard. Even when we cut down on spending, we kept a few options that provided these services. Instead of ditching all the monthly streaming apps, we looked hard at our memberships and cut back or found free services to supplement.

  • Spotify membership for music (we can download or stream) $11
  • Movie library on an external hard drive created before we ditched our DVDs Free
  • Hulu (included with Spotify) Free
  • Disney Plus (prepaid for three years during a special offer) $4
  • Nexflix (included with T-Mobile plan) Free
  • Tubi (a free streaming app) Free

Spotify and Audible are great for downloading books and playlists for when you are out of service or on passage. You can also download movies and shows through many streaming apps for playback when you don’t have a signal or are running on a budgeted amount of mobile data. An external hard drive of your favorite movies is also a great source of video entertainment that will never let you down.

Personal Care & Clothing

Average cost $73.

Crew member applying tinted moisturizer

Hair & Skin Care

Go more natural with skin and hair care. Most boats won’t have spare power for hairdryers and straighteners. On top of that, the sun and humidity will destroy makeup.

Start now researching ways to simplify your personal care regimens. It will make the transition abroad much easier.

Tips for Hair & Skin Care

  • Get a tinted moisturizer with SPF for your face (I like Raw Elements ), a flexible eye shadow, and waterproof mascara. Opt for reusable makeup remover cloths to cut down on waste.
  • Work on a natural look for your hair, and see if you can find a style you can cut yourself. Shampoo and conditioner bars are a great way to save space and are typically made with clean ingredients that won’t harm sea life.
  • Opt for a simple personal care routine. The fewer products you use, the more space, time, and money you’ll save.
  • We love to use UPF clothing in combination with sunscreen. The more you can cover up, the less sunscreen you’ll need.

For us, this area is where expenses remain similar to land life. There are no unique expenses with health or dental care, although finding healthcare coverage for multiple states can be challenging.

For the lady sailors, I recommend researching ways to have a zero-waste period. A menstrual cup is something I wish I had transitioned to before cruising. It will make your life easier, plus save you money and storage space.

If you can minimize laundry and wash some stuff on board, you can limit the need to find a washing machine.

Tips for Laundry on a Boat

  • Wear clothes that are easy to wash and dry and can be worn several times between washes.
  • In the summer months, wear UPF synthetics and bathing suits that can be washed by hand. This will also extend their life.
  • In the winter months, wear merino wool and dress in layers to get the most wears out of your clothes before washing.
  • Save sheets, towels, and bulkier clothing for when you have access to a washing machine. We aim to do machine washing about once a month.

Having a solid system in place for handwashing clothes helps limit our laundry budget. We average $8 per month spent on machines.

We try to buy high-quality clothing that is durable for boat life. Once you’ve created a boat wardrobe that works, you’ll find there is little you will need.

In six months, the only clothing I have purchased is a UPF shawl, a sun hat (to replace one I lost overboard), and a tank top. I previously spent a lot of money on clothes. Now I enjoy dialing in a functional, minimalist wardrobe for living on a boat.

READ NEXT: For more on clothing for boat life, check out What to Wear Sailing and How to Downsize Your Wardrobe .

Average cost $58.

View from commercial airline

For us, our travel budget for many years has consisted of only credit card membership fees. These help us earn points that pay for our travel.

Booking a flight or rental car without worrying about how it affects the budget is a nice perk in this lifestyle. There are times you need a car to get a project done or to book a last-minute flight to visit family.

We also get an annual travel credit with the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card. We use a lot of the credit toward Ubers and Lyfts – great for when grocery stores aren’t within walking distance or you need to make a larger provisioning run.

Getting Started With a Cruising Budget

Sunset on the Intracoastal Waterway

Here are some final thoughts when creating your future sailboat cruising budget.

  • The above expenses are based on actively cruising on our 38-foot catamaran. For us, extended time at the dock is just a redistribution of funds. Maintenance and fuel go down, and marina expenses go up.
  • Our maintenance costs are at about 4% of the hull value. Aside from the trampoline, we have not replaced any big-ticket items, so we expect this percentage may increase over the next couple of years.
  • If you hope to stretch your cruising kitty, give yourself time to overcome the learning curve. Learning to maintain, operate, cook, and just be on a boat will take time. As you get more experience, your spending habits will improve. Be patient and keep moving forward.
  • I highly recommend you continue researching and reading as much as possible about the cost of living on a sailboat. Get perspectives from different cruisers. This will help you create a cruising budget that will be unique to you.

Other Resources

  • Gone with the Wynns created a very detailed article and video that breakdowns their cost of living on a boat.
  • Sailing Kittiwake also has a great video on the cost of living on a sailboat on a budget .

*Costs not included in this overview are health insurance, taxes, business expenses, and gifts or donations. These expenses are particular to each individual’s situation and so are excluded from this article.

Want more tips on how to get started cruising on a boat?

For more information on the reality of boat life and tips for living on the water, view our complete guide.

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5 Big Costs of Living on a Sailboat

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

Excellent article. Thank you!

I started getting the urge to return to the sea not long after I got out of the Navy in 1974…. Started out on a 15′ Phantom…. Up to 21′ Keels, up to a 26′ Bristol and finally a 28′ Newport…. You learn alot of tricks of the trade at a working marina… Barter system, I used to go up the mast or anything Aloft in return for favors with anything that I had a problem with …. Had to give up the sailboat when I couldn’t sail it by myself anymore … Looking for a 35′-38′ trawler to live in the Tampa Bay area for the rest of my day…. From the Sea I came, back to sea I will return … Anchor’s Aweigh….

Hi George, it sounds like you have lived and breathed boats for a while! One of my favorite things about a good liveaboard marina is how everyone trades boat maintenance favors and helps each other out. I sure hope you find a good trawler to liveaboard in Tampa – sounds lovely!

Do you use a specific budgeting software or anything to track your transactions? Please share if so

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living on a sailboat cost

Cost of Living On A Sailboat (Monthly Breakdown)

Paul Stockdale Author Avatar

The cost of living on a sailboat full-time is approximately $1,880 per month or $22,560 per year.

Please keep in mind that the cost of living on a sailboat can vary depending on your specific location, the condition of the vessel, the size of the boat and your boating experience.

The cost of living on a sailboat can be broken down into 9 monthly expenses including:

  • Boat Marina Fees
  • Boat Insurance Cost
  • Boat Maintenance Fees
  • Fuel Expenses
  • Grocery Costs
  • Boat Gear Costs
  • Entertainment Costs
  • Internet Costs
  • Miscellaneous Costs

Below is a cost of living on a sailboat table summary.

1. Boat Marina Fees

Sailboat Marina Fees

The first cost to consider when living on a sailboat is the marina fees/slip fees.

The marina costs for a sailboat are approximately $10 to $20 per foot per month.

For example, a sailboat owner with a boat size of 30 feet will typically pay between $300 and $600 per month in slip fees to stay at a marina.

A marina will charge a boat owner on a per-foot basis based on the length of the vessel.

The size of the boat and the location of the marina will have a large influence on the price charged to boat owners with marinas in Florida typically being the most expensive in America compared to other locations.

Paying marina fees gives boat owners access to boat cleaning services, electricity, internet access, pump-out services and facilities, waste removal services and a marine store.

Some boat owners prefer anchoring which is free of charge. Anchoring can be the best option during warmer months from April until November when marina facilities are needed less.

Boat marina costs can be reduced by mooring in cheaper marina locations, only using the marina when necessary or anchoring the boat off the coast away from the marina.

2. Boat Insurance Cost

Sailboat Insurance Fees

The second cost to consider when living on a sailboat is the boat insurance fee.

The cost of sailboat insurance is approximately $55 per month or $660 per year.

This is an approximate cost for the average sailboat owner living onboard their vessel in America.

According to Progressive , the annual Progressive boat insurance policy cost for the insurance policies they issued to boat owners in America ranged from $250 to $700 per year.

To get an accurate boat insurance cost for your specific sailboat, contact marine insurance providers for quotes.

The cost of boat insurance will vary based on the size, location and condition of the sailboat as well as a boat owner's experience and claims history.

Typically, the boat insurance cost will be 1% to 4% of the total retail value of your sailboat.

Boat insurance is the most expensive in locations that suffer from hurricanes like Florida and Texas.

Boat insurance costs can be reduced by browsing insurance providers, using cheaper sailboats, using the boat in lower-risk areas and increasing your boat experience.

3. Boat Maintenance Costs

Sailboat Maintenance Cost

The third cost to consider when living on a sailboat is the maintenance cost.

The average cost of sailboat maintenance is $250 per month or $3,000 per year.

A sailboat's maintenance cost can vary based on the condition, size, age and location of the sailboat as well as the boat owner's experience with repairing and maintaining the boat.

Boat maintenance cost includes paying for spare parts, cleaning supplies, boat paint, engine services, repairing fridges, electronics, lines, cookers, windows, seats, toilets, deck materials etc.

Boat maintenance costs can be reduced by using second-hand parts, manually repairing the sailboat yourself and treating the boat with care.

4. Fuel Expenses

Sailboat Fuel Cost

The fourth cost to consider when living on a sailboat is the fuel cost.

Sailboat fuel costs approximately $150 per month or $1,800 per year.

Sailboat fuel costs include paying for diesel or gas for the boat engine and buying propane fuel for sailboat heating and cooking while living onboard.

The factors that affect the sailboat fuel costs are the location, weather, size and condition of the boat as well as the frequency of use.

In the winter, sailboat fuel costs tend to rise whereas they are cheaper in the months from April until September.

To reduce the fuel costs of a sailboat, use the sails more often rather than the boat motor. Sailboat fuel costs can also be reduced by only traveling when it is the optimal time for the current which can make a large difference in fuel efficiency.

5. Grocery Costs

Sailboat Grocery Cost

The fifth cost to consider when living on a sailboat is the groceries cost.

The cost of groceries when living on a sailboat is approximately $450 per month or $5,400 per year.

Grocery costs include paying for food, drinks, bathing supplies and kitchen cleaning supplies.

The grocery costs remain the same year-round. To reduce the grocery costs when living onboard a sailboat, boat owners can choose to catch fish by fishing from their boat. However, this will only cause a small reduction.

A saltwater-to-freshwater converter can be used to get a fresh supply of drinkable water without having to spend money on buying drinks. This will only cause a small reduction in costs too.

6. Boating Gear Costs

Sailboat Gear Cost

The sixth cost to consider when living onboard a sailboat is boating gear costs.

The approximate cost of boating gear when living on a sailboat is $100 per month or $1,200 per year.

Boating gear costs include paying for gear like sailing sunglasses, sailing jackets, swim gear, fishing gear, sunscreen, wetsuits, sailing hats, fire blankets, and general boating accessories.

The boating gear cost is the most expensive in the winter months when extra sailing clothing is needed to keep warm.

To reduce the cost of boating gear, take good care of your current boat gear to ensure it lasts longer and purchase high-quality boating accessories that will last for a long time.

7. Entertainment Cost

Sailboat Entertainment Cost

The seventh cost to consider when living onboard a sailboat is the entertainment cost.

The cost of entertainment when living on a sailboat is approximately $200 per month or $2,400 per year.

Entertainment costs include paying for tv subscriptions, board games, dining out, trips to the cinema, etc.

The entertainment costs will not change throughout the year.

To reduce entertainment costs, find free entertaining activities to do rather than spend money for entertainment.

8. Internet Costs

Sailboat Internet Cost

The eighth cost to consider when living on a sailboat is internet costs.

The cost of the internet when living on a sailboat is approximately $100 per month or $1,200 per year.

Internet costs include paying for a 4G/5G connection or satellite internet connection. It includes paying for a wi-fi router to connect to the sailboat too.

To reduce the internet cost on a sailboat, anchor the boat at marinas with a Wi-Fi connection included in the slip fees.

9. Miscellaneous Costs

Sailboat Miscellaneous Cost

The ninth cost to consider when living on a sailboat is the miscellaneous costs.

The miscellaneous costs when living on a sailboat are approximately $125 per month or $1,500 per year.

Miscellaneous costs will typically remain the same throughout the year without much change.

Miscellaneous costs include costs associated with buying items like boat rugs, personal care items, boat care basics, coolers, boating decor, cooking utensils etc.

To reduce the miscellaneous costs, reduce the number of general boating items purchased and ensure the items that are purchased are of good quality so they last longer.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Cost Of Living On A Sailboat

Below are the most commonly asked questions about the cost of living on a sailboat.

How Much Does A Large Sailboat (Over 50ft) Cost To Live On?

The approximate cost to live on a large sailboat (over 50ft.) full-time is $3,200 per month or $38,400 per year.

What Is The Most Expensive Cost Associated With Living On A Sailboat?

The most expensive cost associated with living on a sailboat is the marina slip fees which are a monthly cost of $10 to $20 per foot of boat size.

How Can The Cost Of Living On A Sailboat Be Reduced?

The cost of living on a sailboat can be reduced by using the sails instead of boat fuel to power the boat when traveling, mooring the sailing vessel in a cheaper marina or anchoring outside a marina, browsing for cheaper marine insurance policies, ensuring care when using the vessel to keep repair costs low, downsizing to a smaller sailboat and keeping entertainment costs to a minimum by finding cheaper or free entertainment alternatives.

The Cost of Living on a Sailboat Full-Time (with Examples)

What is the cost of living on a sailboat full-time? And can it be affordable? Yes! Absolutely it can.

It’s a dream for many to leave the land behind with its 9 to 5s, crowded cities, and traffic and take to the sea. To live aboard a sailboat for an extended period, maybe even indefinitely.

However, before casting off and setting sail into the sunset, one of the first questions, and perhaps the first hurdle to living this sailing lifestyle, is knowing how much such an adventure will cost.

Contrary to popular belief, boat life isn’t exclusively for wealthy people. In fact, living on a sailboat can be very affordable. Of course, a lot depends on where you’re planning to sail and what kind of lifestyle you want. Regardless of your budget, there are a number of common costs associated with living on a boat full-time that all sailboat owners should consider.

*All example costs given in $ USD

How Much Does Living on a Sailboat Full-Time Cost?

Living aboard a boat will generally cost somewhere between $500 and $10,000 per month at either extreme. For most, it’s probably somewhere close to $1,500 – $5000.

We spend somewhere around $2,500 per month living on a boat in the Mediterranean . That’s about $1,900 per month in living expenses plus a further $600 per month on boat-related expenses like servicing, repairs, boat insurance, and storage.

At the budget end of liveaboard life, are sailors living on smaller, older boats that they own outright, in areas where they can anchor regularly or have access to cheap mooring. In this case, overheads will be very low. If you can keep living costs down by cooking for yourself, not burning too much fuel motoring (either by sailing everywhere or simply staying put), and reducing maintenance and servicing costs by DIYing everything then live-aboard-life can be very cheap albeit very sparse.

On the other end of the spectrum, families leasing large, new boats that they use to explore widely can easily spend 10s of thousands in a single month.

Your cost of living on a sailboat will be completely dependent upon your own financial situation and personal aspirations for life on a boat. Let’s look at the various costs associated with living on a boat full time.

The Cost of Buying a Boat

One of the most obvious, and certainly the biggest, costs associated with the liveaboard life is the initial cost of purchasing a vessel to live on.

The cost of a boat will depend on your budget and criteria.

Realistically, a safe and seaworthy boat equipped for living aboard and with enough space for an individual or couple starts somewhere around $20,000. This will buy an older boat around thirty feet, but one that is sound and hopefully well maintained. There is no known upper limit for what you can spend on a boat, however, at the pointy end of the cruiser market, newer 50-foot monohulls cost hundreds of thousands of dollars and brand-new catamarans can cost over a million dollars.

To get an idea of how much a boat suitable for you and your crew’s needs will cost in your region head to Yacht World and plug in your criteria.

Other costs associated with purchasing a sailing vessel include:

  • Pre-purchase survey reports – These are generally charged per foot and can cost between $10 – $25 per foot depending on the region your boat is in. Boat build material may also factor into the cost with wooden boats attracting higher inspection fees.
  • Insurance – Liveaboard sailboat insurance, including third-party insurance which is almost universally mandatory, will vary substantially based on region, insurer, and boat value. On average an annual insurance policy should fall between $500 and $1,500 annually . Boat insurance is generally cheaper than home or vehicle insurance.
  • Registration costs, once again will vary from region to region and based on the size of your boat and onboard motor. Registration itself usually costs several hundred dollars for a liveaboard-sized boat . It may be a one-time payment or an annual payment. Be aware, that there may be other costs associated with boat registration, for example, some authorities might require used boats to be hauled and inspected and any issues rectified which can quickly increase the cost of registering your boat.

Costs of Maintaining a Boat

Once you’ve bought a boat, the endless work and expense of maintenance begin immediately.

The old ‘rule of thumb’ is that maintenance costs for a boat will be around 10% of the purchase cost.

Older boats will require more maintenance more frequently and owners should err on the side of caution and may need to budget for more maintenance depending on the age and condition of their boat. There is a lot of equipment on a boat and ‘nautical’ products always seem to attract an inexplicable but hefty premium.

Engine, electrical systems, kitchen, safety equipment, ropes, anchors, sails, rigging, navigation, dinghy, outboard, the hull itself, the list of systems that may require spot repair or total overhaul at any given time goes on and on.

Being able to predict a potential range of maintenance costs will require having an accurate assessment of your maintenance needs. You can do this by keeping careful inventory and monitoring your systems.

Start with the recurring annual costs. For example:

  • Inboard engine service
  • Haul out, clean, and paint
  • Outboard engine service

Next, consider which systems haven’t been updated or are starting to show signs of wear and anticipate potential maintenance or replacement costs. Try to stay on top of these issues as they arise to keep maintenance costs stable. For example:

  • Sail Service (or Replacement)
  • Worn out Rigging
  • Electrical systems
  • Electronic equipment such as sounders, navigation equipment or VHF radio
  • Expiring safety equipment like flares, life jackets, EPIRB, and safety raft

Finally set aside some contingency funds, say 10% of the boat’s value to address the unexpected issues that will invariably arise. For example:

  • Damaged rigging and equipment
  • Plumbing issues
  • Engine Issues
  • Hull damage

For an in-depth look at some average costs for common boat maintenance tasks check out this article by Improve Sailing .

Costs of Mooring a Boat

No matter how ‘off grid’ you plan to get, at one point or another, you will need to moor your boat.

Like everything else, mooring and docking costs are wildly variable. The amount you will spend will depend largely on the size of your boat, how you plan to use it, and where you plan to sail it.

Boat size is perhaps the most significant variable when it comes to mooring. Prices are usually calculated per square meter. The longer and wider your boat is, the more expensive the mooring. For this reason, catamarans are generally the most costly sailboats to moor.

How you use it will also affect the amount of money you spend on mooring fees.

  • Will you stay in one area year-round? And thus be able to get a much cheaper annual marina berth, rather than transient nightly berths which are much more expensive.
  • If you plan on sailing your boat far and wide, do you want to spend a lot of time off your boat enjoying new places, attractions, and restaurants on the land?
  • Are you a novice sailor not comfortable sleeping at anchor or sailing in bad weather
  • Do you have a smaller boat without amenities like large water tanks, a water maker, or a large solar electrical system to comfortably sustain long periods away from the port?

These questions will help you understand how regularly you might want to moor the boat. However, you probably won’t know for sure until you begin sailing.

The costs of mooring are also very much dependent on where you plan to dock. Even within the same country or region, one place very popular for sailing with many amenities and attractions may be much more expensive than a nearby marina in a less popular area. You can easily research prices for marinas in a particular area to get an accurate idea of prices. If you are planning to remain mostly in one area, consider that long-term leases can offer far cheaper rates than transient mooring prices.

Marinas are the most obvious places to more but also the most expensive. Many regions have mooring buoys or public wharves that might be free to use or be far cheaper than a marina but lack facilities.

To summarise the cost of mooring your boat is highly variable but you can easily calculate a potential range of costs based on your specific situation.

If you have a small monohull and plan to spend the majority of your time on the anchor, only coming into a marina a few times a month in very bad weather or to resupply, and you choose your marinas carefully, you’re mooring costs could conceivably be kept under $100 a month.

If you have a larger catamaran, enjoy the safety and convenience of mooring in marinas, and plan to visit the most beautiful and famous sailing grounds in the world marina fees could easily exceed $2000 a month.

For most, it will be somewhere in between based on personal preference and budget.

Personally, currently sailing in Greece, we spend about $450 a month on marina fees. We have a small boat, a 29-foot monohull but we usually spend two nights in a marina each week, sometimes even more if there is poor weather.

Winter Marina Berth Costs

Sailors in areas with challenging winter conditions may choose to spend the summer months sailing from place to place spending time on anchor and in transient berths, and over winter continue living on their boats but permanently moored inside a marina. These semi-annual marina berths often cost less than berths in the summertime as many boats will be dry-docked and there is no demand for transient berths. Certain marinas have winter communities that return each year to wait out the winter in comfortable marinas with like-minded liveaboards.

Dry Docking

Some seasonal liveaboards may live on their sailboat only for the warmer months, and haul it out each winter for cheap storage. In areas that experience disadvantageous weather in the off-season dry docking your boat for the winter can be a cost-effective solution. Dry docking involves pulling the boat from the water and storing it on the land for the winter. Storing the boat on land is far cheaper than mooring your boat in a marina. Dry docking also provides an opportunity to perform maintenance on the hull.

Costs of Sailing a Boat

The wonderful thing about a sailboat is that the wind is free. Ostensibly you could liveaboard without any costs for traveling save for the costs of maintaining sails and rigging. In reality, if you plan to travel with your boat you may end up using your motor more than you thought. That being said, fuel costs for a moderately sized liveaboard boat (30 – 40 feet) should be negligible especially compared to transport costs on land.

We travel very slowly, we work during the week and do most of our sailing on the weekend. Often we travel less than 50 nautical miles a week. Say we sail half of that time that is 25 nautical miles a week to motor (basically nothing). Our boat tops out at a little over 5 kn. This means we might motor for about 5 hours at top speed we are burning about 2 to 3 liters of diesel an hour. Our fuel consumption is a paltry 10 – 15 liters per week! In 2022 marine diesel costs $2 a liter which puts our fuel costs at $20 – $30 a week.

Some weeks we have to travel more, and some less, sometimes there is more wind, sometimes less but overall fuel costs on our little sailboat are very manageable

Let’s look at the other end of the spectrum, a 50 foot Catamaran that has to cover a lot of ground sailing in a region without much reliable wind, but a lot of swell. Say this boat needs to travel 100 NM a week using only the motor and burns fuel at a rate of 12 liters an hour. With a faster top speed of 8 kn the larger boat might use 150 liters of fuel each week which in the current climate would cost around $300 per week.

Costs of Living on a Sailboat

The day-to-day cost of living on a sailboat will likely be similar to your day-to-day cost of living on land. We have included our budget here as an example of our weekly costs of sailing in the Mediterranean.

This hasn’t changed much for us. We still cook most meals onboard and go out to eat when we are in a marina.

We spend about $80 a week on groceries and another $70 on eating out. However, your own personal grocery budget on land is a pretty good indicator of what you might spend living on a boat.

We spend another $50 a week buying wine and beer and budget a further $50 for going to the bar. We set aside $12 for coffee from a cafe on the weekend.

Phone and Internet

This one comes as a bit of a surprise to most people but our total phone and internet costs are less than $500 per annum. We have one entry-level smartphone that cost $250. We use data-only sims in the places we sail and are currently using a $50 Cosmote Three Month Unlimited Data sim in Greece. When in a marina we can often access marina wifi.

Using this single phone and single prepaid data sim we are both able to work using video conferencing as well as stream television and upload our own movies and photos to social media. The limitations of relying on a smartphone are that you usually need to be in sight of a cellular tower. As we are sailing in Europe and stay close to shore this is not a problem for us. But this might be too limiting for some.

Other phone and internet gear that full-time sailors might consider are mast-mounted wi-fi hot spot which provides a dedicated hot spot 24/7 and greater range than a smartphone thanks to their powerful antennae and positioning. Antenna boosters for wifi and cellular data are also cost-effective ways of increasing your range.

The truth is that cellular data is so cheap and so readily available along the coasts of most major sailing destinations that a modern smartphone is all most sailors will need these days. However, for those intrepid explorers planning long passages far from shore, another solution may be required.

Satellite internet is the only option to stay connected if you plan to sail offshore. The cost of satellite internet has been prohibitively expensive for most for a long time. Startup costs of purchasing entry-level marine satellite dishes cost thousands of dollars and very basic plans with a small amount of data and slow speeds cost thousands more each year. Large amounts of high-speed internet at sea and the infrastructure to deliver it can easily cost 10’s of thousands of dollars.

Hopefully, as satellite internet becomes more widely adopted, the prices of satellite internet comes down giving off shore cruisers an affordable way to access high speed internet.

Entertainment

Boat life is rarely boring. We spend weekends sailing, anchoring in new bays and beaches, swimming fishing, and cooking.

When we reach a new town or city we will often spend a night in a marina, once or twice a week. This gives us the opportunity to leave the boat to explore a new area.

In total our entertainment spend boils down to

  • Netflix – Free using Mum’s login details
  • Spotify – $12 per month
  • Bars – $50 per week
  • Restaurants – $80 per week

Final Thoughts About the Costs of Living on a Boat

Of course, the cost of living on a sailboat full-time will be different for everyone. The biggest factors will be the boat you buy, how you use it, and where you intend to sail.

Sailing can be bare bones, basic, and frugal, it can be reasonably comfortable and moderately priced or it can be luxurious and mind-bogglingly expensive and everything in between.

Whatever your budget and whatever your sailing style, you are really only limited by your imagination.

Hopefully, we have given you a starting point to think about the cost of living on a sailboat full-time. But if you have any questions or comments please let us know below!

Looking for more sailing content? Have a look at these recent articles:

  • The 13 Best Sailing Vlogs And Sailing Blogs (According to Us)
  • 10 Things We Hated About Sailing Albania (And 5 Things We Loved)
  • Buying a Boat In Croatia

Want to save this Cost of Living on a Sailboat Full-Time blog post for later? Pin it!

In 2016, recently single, without a job, and an expiring lease I took off on my first solo backpacking trip, with a one-way ticket to Bangkok and a well-thumbed Lonely Planet guide. From there I wandered Southeast and Central Asia, traveled the Great Steppe, and made my way across Russia and throughout Europe.

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

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

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

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

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My Cruiser Life Magazine

Living On a Boat Full Time — What to Consider Before Living Aboard

Let’s talk about real-life boat ownership and living on a boat full time. My wife and I have lived on our boat for nearly eight years, doing everything from full-time living on a boat in a marina to cruising The Islands of The Bahamas for months.

For starters, everything you’ve ever wondered about living on a boat probably doesn’t scratch the surface of everything you’ll learn. This lifestyle isn’t for everyone; for every wonderful day on the water, there’s a stressful situation or broken boat part.

So what does living on a boat full time look like? Here’s a glimpse into the world of the liveaboard. 

living on a boat full time

Table of Contents

Should i live on a boat absolutely yes, here’s why (pros of living on a boat), never, in a million years, should anyone ever live on a boat (cons of living on a boat), there’s more than one way to live on a boat, there’s a steep learning curve, it’s kind of like camping, constant maintenance and cleaning, weather drama, the legalities of the live aboard life, cost of living on a boat, paths to moving aboard, living on a boat full time faqs, what are the pros and cons of living on a boat.

It is often said that there’s a wide gap between the romantic vision that many people have of the liveaboard lifestyle and the nitty-gritty reality.

Here are the pros and cons of living on a boat full time, taken from our personal experiences.

Living on a boat is sometimes even better than your most romantic vision. Dolphins frolicking while the sunsets, tropical drinks in your hands, and nothing but crystal clear water between you and the most spectacular island beach you’ve ever seen. Yes, that all happens, sometimes.

  • Freedom to go where you want, when you want
  • Travel as much or as little as you want
  • Take your house with you as you move
  • Changing scenery, waterfront property where ever you go
  • Wildlife visits—seals, whales, dolphins, birds
  • A friendly community of other boaters
  • Learn to live more simply, with only the necessities

Everyone has good days and bad days. We’ve often described boat life as having high highs but very low lows. The peaks and valleys of boat life (crests and troughs?) are just much farther from baseline-normal.

For every dolphin, there is a broken toilet joker valve leaking sewage onto the bathroom floor. 

For every idyllic island beach, there is a fouled diesel filter that needs changing. 

For every smooth downwind passage, there is a sloshy, windless mess of flapping sails making everyone on board seasick.

The list could go on and on and on.

  • Constant maintenance and cleaning
  • Difficulty finding skilled, professional labor 
  • Small spaces, no storage, no privacy
  • No dishwashers, washing machines, dryers (usually)
  • Away from docks, you always have limited power and water
  • Constant exposure to the weather
  • Tax and insurance issues

Common Issues with Moving Onto a Boat

Here are some of the biggest issues we have noticed from our experiences and those around us. While everyone’s experience of living on a boat full time differs, everyone seems to have similar issues.

First, it has to be said that everyone’s experience is different. And that’s most obvious by looking at what sort of boat they choose and where they choose to live on it.

Many books have been written on the subject, and most like to divide boaters into three groups based on their budgets. There are the high-lifers who can afford to buy a new or newish boat that is large and comfortable. They can afford to live at a resort marina and likely hire professionals for most maintenance and cleaning tasks. They likely spend most of their time in marinas if they travel far. 

Then there are the Goldilocks boaters—not too big, not too small—making up the “middle class” of boating. There’s a healthy mix of DIY projecting with some professional help on the big projects. They might liveaboard at a marina or travel full-time. They might live at docks, anchor, or a mix. 

And then there are the budget boaters. Cheap boats are easy to come by if you’re willing to use DIY labor to fix them up. They are most likely to anchor out to minimize costs. 

All these people live very different lives on their boats, but does it matter? The costs are astronomically different, but they could be visiting the same ports, seeing the same sights, and even sharing the same experiences. 

What’s most amazing is how everyone perceives their liveaboard situation. I’ve been to dock parties where couples on 60′ catamarans complain that they have no personal space and must take a break from being on the boat together after a few months. Meanwhile, I know a family of five (plus two dogs) that live on a 40′ monohull with less than 1/3 the space of the catamaran. They have issues, but they’re pretty happy five years later. 

(Speaking of catamarans, check out my recommendations for liveaboard catamaran options.)

Living on a Boat

Year one of boating is the worst. There’s so much to learn; it’s all new and different than anything you’ve done before. There are all the sailing terms you must learn, but there are also boat maintenance tasks and understanding how all the systems on your boat work. Then there are the basics of seamanship and how to operate your vessel safely. It is a lot to take in.

And the basics of living on a boat are different from land life. Your kitchen (galley) is much smaller. The toilet doesn’t flush like a regular land toilet. You’re always thinking about minimizing water use when showering or doing dishes. If you turn too many electrical items on, circuit breakers pop. The list goes on and on, and when you’re new, it’s stressful.

Once you’ve got the kinks worked out, learned your boat systems, and successfully traveled and lived on your boat for a while, things get much better. You know more, your boat is set up the way you need it, and you have the confidence to start enjoying yourself. Some people take a few months, some a year, and, unfortunately, some never get there. 

Boats are small spaces, but the truth is that living on a boat is more like camping than most boaters like to admit. You get by with only a few items in your wardrobe. You skip showers since you don’t always have hot water. You don’t have space for all the luxuries of home. No dishwasher. No washing machine. Everyone is occasionally uncomfortable onboard, whether from the weather or the cramped quarters.

Boats are also hard on relationships. While there’s something romantic about being cozy and alone together at sea, it isn’t so romantic on day five, or thirty, or sixty. Personal space is non-existent on most boats. It’s inevitable that your significant other—or anyone else—will drive you nuts after some time. Boats have ended more than one marriage that we know of. 

The cramped living space on a boat poses other problems, too. Downsizing is important because you simply can’t bring it all with you—there’s no storage space. What is important, what’s nice to have, and what will you use on a boat? Living on a boat forces you to live with the minimum and acknowledge what you need to survive. 

Living on a sailboat is, of course, drastically different than living on a luxury yacht. But all these problems seem relative, and no matter what size your boat is, everyone has the same complaints.

Boats are always trying to sink and fall apart. The ocean helps them with its corrosive saltwater and constant motion. The only thing keeping it afloat? You, the lowly and unprepared new boat owner. Yikes!

 Even if you have mechanics and boatyard workers do most of the big projects for you, there’s still a ton that you’ll wind up doing on your own. Just day-to-day cleaning on a boat is a big deal. Everything is more difficult and takes longer than it does on a house. 

Somehow, boats seem to get dirtier faster than houses do. From polishing the hull, shining the stainless, varnishing the teak, and scrubbing the scum line to everyday things like dishes, sweeping the floors, and cleaning the bathroom, boats are dirty, and it takes time to keep them clean.

boat maintenance

The weather plays a bigger part in your life than you’ll even imagine. Most of us pay remarkably little attention to the weather when we’re on land. If it’s hot, we might just minimize our time away from air conditioning. If it’s raining, it’s a minor inconvenience. We never think about the wind or tides.

But everything on a boat revolves around the weather. Every day we look at the weather for the upcoming week. Forecasts are often inaccurate, so we expect it to change. But what should we be ready for? When cruising, we often track weather systems over a week away and start planning. 

This week, it says we might get gusts to 52 knots (!!!) from the southwest with heavy rain and thunderstorms. We’re anchored and away from the dock. Will our anchorage be protected from winds like that? Is the holding good here, or is there a safer place we should move to? Should we think about moving there early in case it fills up with boats? 

We go through this exercise every week or two, no matter where we are. When approaching an anchorage, it’s all about the wind direction, tide level, and whatever else is happening. Are we okay with being stuck here for a few days if it’s foggy? A week? What if we need south winds to reach our next destination, but the forecast only has east winds? Do we wait or change our destination? 

The amount of attention it takes and the flexibility of your schedule is mind-boggling to most landlubbers. When friends want to visit us, we tell them we can meet them in a specific place or at a specific time, but not both. If you want us to meet you, you’ve got to be flexible too!

What do you legally need to do to live on a boat full time? Most people’s home or apartment is their legal residence and domicile. It’s listed on their driver’s license, and it’s where they vote and pay taxes. 

How will all these issues play out when you move onto a boat that moves around? There are mail forwarding services that allow you to set up residency. We use St. Brendan’s Isle in Florida since we were already Floridians, but there are also similar services in other states. This at least gives you the ability to have a driver’s license and vote. 

Taxes are a little more complicated. You can register the boat at your address in Florida, but each US state collects its own use tax. If you use your boat in their state for over a few months, they want to tax it. It’s not a problem if you move around, but what if you want to leave your boat in New York for the summer? Then you might have to register it there and pay taxes. 

Additionally, many counties in the US collect personal property tax on boats. We know of several places where if you are in the county on January 1 st , you’ll owe the county property tax. If you were one county away where the tax happens to be zero, you would owe nothing. Tricky!

Recreational boat insurance is another matter of concern. It used to be fairly easy to insure a boat, especially a cheap old boat. If you have a homeowner’s policy, you can easily add the boat. But if you’re a liveaboard with no real land address, getting insurance is becoming a problem. If the boat is too old, you’re traveling to distant ports, or the boat is very large, and you’re first time boat owners, it can be hard to find an underwriter. 

Do you even need insurance? Many marinas and boatyards now require it. Gone are the days when you could sail the world and “self-insure.” But, honestly, those days never really existed. If your uninsured $5,000 sailboat drags anchor and puts a gash in a $5 million yacht, a serious legal headache will follow. Many owners of older vessels keep “liability-only” insurance, but even this is getting less affordable and hard to come by.

Many folks who want to try boat life are understandably curious about the average cost of owning and buying a liveaboard sailboat . Is it cheaper to live on a boat than a house? That’s a tough question to answer. For one thing, people’s expectations and their needs for comfort and security vary widely.

Both houses and boats can be found for about the same amount. If you’re in the market for a $250,000 house, you could find a nice boat for that amount. It would, of course, be much smaller and—unlike the house—be a terrible investment. So while you might be able to get a loan for a house (which makes excellent collateral for the bank), getting a loan for a boat would require a bigger risk on the part of the bank and therefore cost you a lot more.

On the cheaper end, you could find a fixer-upper boat on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace for far less than a neglected house. A house will always have some value based on the land, whereas a boat can become valueless. It’s not uncommon to hear of people getting free boats abandoned in boatyards, making ridiculously low offers on neglected vessels, and getting large boats for a few thousand dollars. People are always wondering how to get rid of an old boat .

These fixer-uppers have their own stories, of course. Many YouTube channels are dedicated to the cheap boat fix-up scheme. Project boats can be wallet-shrinking and soul-sucking. Taking on a project is a good way to lose a lot of money, along with years of your life and any interest you ever had in boating. Project boats are not for most people.

Both boats and houses have taxes and insurance, so those costs are probably very similar. Tax laws vary by state and county. In some places, you won’t have to pay any tax on your boat except for the initial sales tax at the time of purchase. You will have to pay an annual personal property tax in other locales.

You’ll also have to pay for boat parking . Marina, mooring ball, or in the boatyard—all will come with a monthly bill. The house or apartment will not have storage fees, so there’s no equivalent here. But, if you bought a cheap boat for cash and are only paying monthly liveaboard slip fees, this might be less than a mortgage payment would be.

If you’re traveling and anchoring, you can generally do that for free. However, most cruisers spend a few nights a month at marinas. That averages about the same amount they’d pay for monthly dockage since nightly transient rates are high.

Both boats and houses have maintenance and upkeep expenses, but boats generally have more. It’s generally estimated that you should budget ten percent of the boat’s purchase price for annual maintenance. If you bought a $50,000 boat, this would be $5,000 yearly. That holds for most boats, but year one will be higher as you fix neglected items and make your upgrades.

cost of living on a boat

From our experience, we’ve seen people take two paths towards the liveaboard life.

  • Some folks own their boat and use it for weekends or a week’s vacation here and there. They move aboard full-time as they transition to retirement, a work sabbatical, or remote work. Since it’s a gradual transition, these folks generally know what to expect. 
  • Then there are the folks who go all in—they know nothing about sailing or boats and sell it all and move aboard. For them, it’s a jump into icy cold water or learning a new language by moving abroad. 

Which group is more successful? Group One generally knows what to expect, has worked out the kinks in their boat, and has already tackled the learning curve. There’s still a lot to take in, but they’re generally less stressed by it. If you can spend some time on your boat enjoying boating before moving onboard, it’s generally a good thing.

But, either way, being a full-time liveaboard is not a long-term lifestyle for most people. People who start from both groups seem to last an average of about one and a half to three years. After that, they’re ready to either sell the boat and move on or buy an RV or vacation land home that allows them to divide their time between boating and something else. People who last more than three years with only a boat are a very small minority.

One parting thought: Living on a boat full time and traveling is like having three or four full-time jobs. Each requires 30-40 hours per week when you include labor, research, and thinking and planning. 

  • Boat ownership — basic maintenance and cleaning
  • Cruising full-time — destination and route planning, weather study
  • Living aboard — cooking, cleaning, shopping, and everything else takes so much longer on a boat than in a house
  • Your actual job — if you work aboard

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

A lot depends on the size of the yacht. A small sailboat can be found fairly cheaply. For around $50,000US, you can get an older 35-foot sailboat in decent condition and move aboard with few problems. The biggest issue is finding a marina that allows live-aboard boaters. Slip fees will be your biggest expense and can be as high as $1,500 monthly in some areas. However, you can get monthly slips for as little as $300 in other places. 

How to stay organized on a sailboat?

Sailboats have small spaces and not much storage, so keeping organized is key. The first step is to downsize your possessions to the bare minimum—only take what you absolutely need. The less you have, the easier your life aboard will be. 

After that, it’s a matter of packing the boat so that everything has its place. Some boaters like to keep a spreadsheet of where they’ve packed everything away so they can find it quickly. 

Is it cheaper to live in an RV or a boat?

Both of these activities are very dependent on location. Purchasing either one is very similar in cost. RV parks and marinas charge similar prices, but the cost varies depending on the location and services. In the end, however, moving an RV somewhere cheaper is easier and quicker, so you can live somewhere cheaply more easily. 

living on a sailboat cost

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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living on a sailboat cost

The Costs of Living on a Sailboat

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April 5, 2019 By ESI 25 Comments

living on a sailboat cost

We have been there a handful times (three on cruises and twice on trips to Grand Cayman ).

If it was up to me, we will go there at least once per year for the rest of our lives.

And by “up to me” I mean that I am planning at least one trip there per year. 😉

In addition to my love of the Caribbean, you also know that I’m fascinated by the thought of retiring on a cruise ship . It’s still something I would like to give a try. But that’s a no-go from my wife.

But what about going a bit smaller? What about buying a boat, living on it, and sailing it around the Caribbean? Is that reasonable? And what would it cost?

It’s something I’ve pondered for some time now, but has recently popped into the forefront of my thinking.

It Starts with an Excursion

This “dream” (if you can call it that) started many years ago. We took a cruise to escape the Michigan winter.

The sequence of events went something like this:

  • It was approximately 80 below zero, 12 feet of snow on the ground, and we had seen six months of winter by the time January rolled around. (Ok, maybe a bit of an exaggeration, but I’m going for dramatic effect here.)
  • We booked a cruise to the Caribbean to escape the cold.
  • On the cruise we took several excursions (one at each port).
  • Of these excursions, we loved catamarans the most (my daughter and I would get on the front, feet hanging over the edge, and water splashing in our faces as we sailed.) Haha to the suckers in Michigan!!!

Once back home I considered going back to the Caribbean but this time renting a catamaran (with a captain).

My wife didn’t like the idea so we put it on the back burner and took another cruise the next year.

But the idea did not leave my mind…

RV Living Goes Sailboat Living

The idea of living/sailing on a ship had almost perished from my thoughts when my interest was suddenly renewed.

My friend, Michelle, from Making Sense of Cents gave up her RV living for what????? Yes, a catamaran !

What? That’s a thing? People actually live on a boat? (And by boat I don’t mean those nasty houseboats on the Mississippi River back where I’m from.)

I mean a very nice boat. In the Caribbean.

I guess I always knew that some people did this, but I was clueless that many did.

And now someone I knew was doing it!

Obviously I was intrigued and asked if she was going to document her experiences on video. But since she already makes $19,927,345 a minute on her blog (or something close to that), she doesn’t really have any incentive to do it.

Still…I’m holding out hope.

But she did share links to several people who are recording their lives living on catamarans.

So for the past few months I have been watching YouTube videos on the subject.

Let’s take a look at a few of my new “friends”…

Sailing La Vagabonde

The first is a video blog titled Sailing La Vagabonde .

In case it’s not clear, La Vagabonde is the name of the boat. 😉

Anyway, this series is done by an Australian couple (+1 for the accents) who produce videos of their catamaran life.

The videos are very professional (+2) and always include cool music (+3).

And the combination of an attractive and charming woman (+4) with a stud of a captain (+5, you should see the videos of him deep diving and spear fishing, the guy is a beast!) makes their videos fun, entertaining, and educational while also showing great Caribbean scenery.

Here’s a recent video of theirs (warning: if you watch this, you’ll likely find yourself spending the next 4-5 days reviewing back episodes):

Gone with the Wynns

The next video blog is titled Gone with the Wynns . Haha! Big bonus points upfront for a cute title!

This 30-ish couple is sailing all over creation and sharing their story.

They are very friendly people, the sort you’d want to have as neighbors — especially since that would mean you’re in a great location as well!

They also have cats on board, which makes for some funny video moments.

I watched them cross the Pacific Ocean in their catamaran (yes, you read that right — they did it) and I was on the edge of my seat with every video!

Can you imagine crossing the PACIFIC OCEAN in a catamaran????!!!! I was afraid they were going to be hit by a 50-foot wave, lose power, run out of food, or any one of a number of calamities that seemed imminent. I tell you, I think I was more happy for them to see land than they were.

Here’s the episode from the end of that trip:

Sailing SV Delos

I’m not sure what’s going on with the gang from SV Delos .

There are several guys and girls, somewhat of a rotating cast (or so it seems), in their 20’s, sailing all over creation together.

Imagine a college fraternity and sorority got together and decided to sail. That’s a bit of what SV Delos seems to be about.

I have no idea what their off-camera antics entail, but I bet it’s crazy.

The on-camera stuff is mild and full of great scenery, exotic locations, and lots of sun and water.

Here’s a typical episode:

How Much Does It Cost?

Now that Michelle’s got me watching all these sailing video blogs, I started to wonder about the finances.

What does it cost to live on a boat and sail it around?

The answer is not as easy as you might think.

Why is that?

Well consider this question:

What does it cost to live on land?

As you know, there are a gazillion answers to that question based on lifestyle choices and a ton of other factors.

It’s the same with living on a boat.

For instance: Do you want to live on a multi-million dollar yacht or a dinghy that’s the water version of camping in a tent?

Your choices make a HUGE difference.

But I still wanted to get a “general” sense of what it would cost, so I did some googling.

Costs of Living on a Boat

To no surprise, the main costs of sailing boil down to two things:

  • Buying the boat
  • All the expenses of running/living on the boat

Let me share some of the resources I found that detail these costs (at least in part) and make some comments along the way.

We begin with this video that (of all things) tells the financials behind Sailing La Vagabonde:

  • Cost of boat: $119k Australian (about $83k US dollars as of this writing)
  • Cost of other expenses: Uh, weak on details here other than “they do not spend as much as it seems at first sight” and “they earn money due to the monetization of their video channel.”

Yeah, I’d say they earn money alright. They currently have over 600k YouTube subscribers.

In other words, they are not hurting for funds.

Next I found an article on Business Insider .

This couple spent $150k on a boat, then moved it to San Diego where:

In an average month, it costs them around $2,200 to live on the boat.

By comparison, they would spend $2,500 to $3,000 to rent an apartment in a similar area of San Diego, and still be paying the boat’s mortgage on top of that.

Ok, so that’s if you want to live on the boat and not sail it. A bit different than what I was looking for but still adds to the general topic knowledge.

Let’s move on to this video where a couple details their costs:

Down in the comments there is some gold. Namely this:

Budget $52K USD per year to live full-time, well done if you spend less.

Turns out this seems to be on the high side of things…moving on to this video:

There are different budgets and different styles of cruising – you can spend from $500 to $2,000+ dollars per month while sailing. We give you the tools to calculate your own cruising budget, because you need to find a budget that works for YOU.

Their actual costs: between 500 and 700 Euros a month ($560 to $790 US dollars).

They also give this advice: to lower expenses, be as self-sufficient as possible.

In other words, you can save a ton by anchoring in a harbor versus at a marina, creating/using your own energy, catching your food, etc.

Even More Information on Sailing Costs

Now let’s go into the lightning round.

I’ll simply post titles, links, and summaries:

  • How Much Does It Cost To Live On A Boat??? : Costs them $1,040 a month
  • Living On A Sailboat in the Caribbean in 2017: The Cost : $1,000 to $2,000 a month
  • Real cost of living on a sailboat : $500 to $3k per month
  • Our Cost of Living: Sailing Around the World (Dana Greyson) : $1,500 to $2,500 a month
  • Top 10 Aspects of Living on a Boat : $460 a month
  • Cruising Budget for the Third Year on a New Catamaran : $32k per year

Lots of information here and quite a spread on costs.

So What Does It Cost to Live on a Catamaran?

The short answer to “what does it cost?” is “it depends.”

But let me try and wrap it all up into a somewhat cohesive set of conclusions:

  • I am surprised by the costs. Both the initial boat expense plus living costs are waaaaay lower than what I thought they would be. I’m not sure what I was expecting but my image was that it was an expensive lifestyle. And yet the reality appears to be quite affordable.
  • Once you think of it, the costs being low are not really that surprising. These people are living in the equivalent of a 200 square foot tiny house. Those aren’t that expensive on land either.
  • On the low end, on-going costs seem like $500 a month. On the high end as much as $50k per year. I’m sure we’d be on the higher end since that’s just how we roll. But even at the top (within reason) it’s completely affordable — and would probably save us money versus living where we do now. However the boat would be much smaller than our house. 😉
  • Given this, I wonder if “retiring to a catamaran” is an affordable option for those struggling for retirement funds. Maybe it’s better (as cost effective or even less expensive) than moving to a low cost of living city or foreign country.

In the end I think this is an exercise in futility for me. While I might consider this as a lifestyle option, my wife still has flashbacks of the cruise where we had 25 to 30 foot waves. She gets seasick just thinking about that. So I’m not likely to be sailing around the Caribbean anytime soon.

But…I still have hope that we could rent one for a week and see how we like it. Ha!

Anyone out there have a boat and/or ever want to sail/live on one? I’m hoping you can share your stories and tips with the rest of us.

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April 5, 2019 at 3:47 am

Need to check out bumfuzzle. Start see the beginning, you’ll be hooked for weeks.

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April 5, 2019 at 8:25 am

I love being on boats so I completely get where you are coming from. One of the main perks of Florida is being able to go on cruises a lot for discounted prices. 🙂 Retiring on a boat is definitely doable. I know your wife won’t go for it, but hopefully you get more cruises in your future. Great post!

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April 5, 2019 at 9:42 am

One boat-living idea that I find interesting is doing the Great Loop. No, it’s not really sailing (although some “loopers” are, in fact, sail boats). And it’s not focused on the Caribbean (although the Great Loop can include a stint through it). What it is, is a loop that includes a trip down the Mississippi River, the Florida Intercoastal waterway, Everglades, and possibly the Keys, East Coast shore hopping up to the St. Lawrence Seaway, all the way back to where you started (hence Great Loop).

Usually this trip is done in a 40-50’ power boat, although sailboats have been used. There is a website devoted to Loopers, including stories, ads for Looper boats for sale that have already been set up for the journey, and budgets. Here is an article about the budget that might be of interest to those who want to learn more: https://www.greatloop.org/content.aspx?page_id=2507&club_id=574480&item_id=921&pst=4906&sl=969106252

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April 5, 2019 at 3:01 pm

I have been a live aboard boatie for 14 years now and my wife has spent last 8 of those with me. A single dad for first 6 years on my launch and when I met my wife she wanted to give it a go and we bought a yacht and now on our second one, a Beneteau 40. My wife who by the way gets sea sick when it’s rough, refuses to stop living aboard as the adventures we’ve be had, the peace the quiet the nature is all she wants. It’s way cheaper than living in a house. I have done many yacht deliveries around the country to get my adrenaline fix. We live in NZ 50 knot winds not uncommon. Plan your trips bad ones become rare. We have made good money on each boat, buy wise get professional advise get a survey. I still prefer a mono hull over a cat

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September 30, 2019 at 9:42 am

Hi, could you elaborate on your comment a little please “We have made good money on each boat, buy wise get professional advise get a survey. “ Is it best to buy in one area and sell in another ? Any advice would be much much appreciated

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April 5, 2019 at 3:13 pm

Fun post! Some of these numbers are a little off- La Vaga is actually a $1,000,000 catamaran. Their monohull is what is quoted in that piece you mentioned above – not their latest boat.

Also, a lot of people don’t talk about the actual refit costs, and that’s where a lot of the boating costs add up quickly.

I haven’t met any full-time boater who says that boating is affordable. BOAT stands for Bust Out Another Thousand 🙂 I’ve met several people in the last year who have quit sailing because of the costs, and have moved back to a land base.

Boating can be done for cheaper, but I find that’s not the average boater.

April 5, 2019 at 3:15 pm

The person commenting above is the first I’ve heard say that it’s way cheaper, haha. But, he’s a liveaboard in NZ so that is different.

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May 17, 2020 at 6:51 pm

Regarding La Vaga – as it turns out, one of the executives at Outremer followed them for a long time and had the idea of getting them in a cat. They made some sort of special sale that made it possible (so not nearly $1,000,000) and Outremer gets endless publicity from the videos.

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April 5, 2019 at 9:29 pm

My co-workers (married) retired and purchased a $1.4M catamaran about 10 years ago with the intention of it being their forever home, as they were both avid sailors. Lived in Panama for a few months to really learn the boat and then sailed to San Diego with a couple friends. Stayed a few months before sailing back to Panama, selling the catamaran, and moving back to the Bay Area. Too much isolation away from family, and too much stress to have someone awake at all times on overnight sails and too much stress with the constant repairs.

Definitely not a life that I would choose.

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March 3, 2020 at 7:25 am

So many naysayers on here, and most of them are so ill-informed. A decent sailboat can be picked up for cheap, and you can cruise the Caribbean for next to nothing. You didn’t mention Sailing Uma on this page, but you should have, because they are the best example of this. They bought their boat for 3000 dollars, spent 10k to fix, and at 13k, went sailing. They are something like 5 years in and doing wonderful, and spending a FRACTION of what you would on a house over that same period of time. Do your research folks. Living on a boat is not only affordable and doable, it’s cheaper than most home living, and it allows you to travel and experience a million more things. Is there some expense? Yes, but just do the numbers. If you are frugal, there is no possible way that a house will be cheaper than living on a sailboat. None.

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August 28, 2020 at 9:15 pm

True, but the difference is income. On land it is easier to make money in the more conventional ways. Some cannot adapt to a freelancing style of income. So, though it is significantly less expensive by the numbers, especially when you add up ongoing maintenance and large periodical repairs, upgrades/expenditures etc. for both. (Even land based people do not usually truly take into account the true cost of home ownership and “deal with it” when something happens)

The reality is that you still have to have the appropriate funds to cover maintenance and living costs. No matter the lesser” by the number” expense.

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April 6, 2019 at 7:36 am

There is a Finnish saying that says: Nothing is too expensive for the boat! ?

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April 6, 2019 at 8:49 am

Gosh if you were to decide to do this, (and I understand your spoise’s concern) it would be fascinating to read your blog entries on how you go through the entire process of researching boat; buying boat and tailoring it to your style.

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April 8, 2019 at 6:37 pm

We’ve gone through this thought process with both boats and RV’s in mind numbing detail, but ultimately we enjoy our house, nice hotels, and resorts way too much. (That…and my wife says something like…”Oh hell no…!” ?) So we compromised this year! We just returned from a full month in the Florida Keys where we rented a nice house (AirB&B) and a boat for the month of March. We loved it so much, that we are already planning two months there next winter. Never saw myself as a snowbird type, but hey…it was pretty dang awesome! We plan to throw in a couple of cruises to the Carribean, and we are planning a road trip to Acadia, Maine and Nova Scotia, CA this summer. IMO, why be locked in to one option, when you can have it all?

March 3, 2020 at 7:28 am

“IMO, why be locked in to one option, when you can have it all?”

For me, and for the majority of the people living the U.S.A., it comes down to money. Unless you are approaching the 1% tier of wealth, it’s just not affordable to be a snow bird and vacation all over the place, PLUS pay for an expensive house. The majority of Americans can’t even afford the outrageous rent prices in America, let alone a house, a mortgage, or the expensive of snow birding. The people that are choosing to live on boats are the same people that are choosing tiny houses and R.V. life, and they are choosing it because it is a more affordable option.

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April 11, 2019 at 9:18 am

Love Gone with the Wynns! I believe they are currently in the South Pacific. Last year I traveled to American Samoa. The Wynns haven’t been there yet, but I’m hoping they visit. Watching their videos reminds me of being there…especially the color of the water. And the whales.

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April 14, 2019 at 9:17 am

Yacht vacation to a great thing. I love to spend time alone by the water and I often use this type of vacation. I live in Poland and I have my yacht here. Sasanka 700 😀 maybe not to big but very nice for alone weekend or small trip with friends. My dream is to go to the Caribbean or Greece for a yacht trip with friends. it is really a great thing to spend time together and take a break from everyday life. recommend

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June 14, 2019 at 11:12 am

One of the problems you’ll note with many of these is they are not showing you their boat maintenance or fuel costs. That can really add up quickly. i.e. I hit a rock while sailing last weekend. Its a min $300 haul out fee followed by whatever the cost is to repair. But with that said we still love it and plan on taking a year to do the great loop and eventually the even greater loop around the world when we are finally able to retire. I would guess a realistic budget for us would be around 75-100k a year which would include side trips and travel home every 3-4 months to stay connected to family and friends.

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June 20, 2019 at 10:57 am

Thanks for this post. In 5 minutes it satisfied my curiosity and showed me this is not the life for me!

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August 8, 2019 at 11:39 am

I have given some thought to purchasing a slip (in the Carolina’s around $25k + about $1800/yr yacht club fees) living aboard and using that as my hub. Some of these yacht clubs are surrounded by nice shops, restaurants with live bands, etc.. You wouldn’t need a car as most tourists bicycle around anyway helping to lower your monthly costs. I’m just digging into more of the details, but have met an 80 year old woman who enjoys this lifestyle and she’s not wealthy. So many ways to skin a cat.

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February 4, 2020 at 9:43 am

researching on this topic this week. Got the exact same conclusion like yours… wife had seasick… ha ha but I think it is worth trying some time later. maybe not for long term, but for a year or 2, that would be nice, as a resume of life.

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May 7, 2020 at 10:48 am

I loved this post. I hope you’ll try it for a couple weeks or a month sometime in the future and regale us with your sailing adventures.

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May 21, 2020 at 3:32 am

I loved this post as well. I have had to pleasure in meeting several couples and even families living this lifestyle in both the med, Asia and Carib. It is fascinating. I’ve also come to the conclusion that generally speaking the lifestyle seems to be cheaper than living on land. You sacrifice the space, but make up with excitement, adventure and living with nature. It is something I’m seriously considering as a lifestyle for a few years. If I manage to create a stable passive income I would go for it.

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February 5, 2021 at 2:05 pm

Great information, but it is hard to compare *reality* with some of the sweetheart deals some of these vloggers get from sponsors, Patreon donors, or other sources of income. I would love it if someone handed me a $1M catamaran to essentially advertise their brand! IMO: Anyone thinking of doing this should get a more affordable monohull that is well found with little to no deferred maintenance, newer sails, newer or engine in great condition = a good starting point. Then I figure $20k per year (after taxes) as the base funds required. FWIW, Gone with the Wynns are the most annoying couple I have ever had the misfortune to watch on YouTube. Some of their content is informative, but damn.

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May 18, 2022 at 7:27 am

For those who are asking the question “How to live on a sailboat full time?”, the best answer is to create a consistent plan and stay organized. Should look for a sea with stable weather conditions. You should pay special attention to wind direction, as well as tidal waves, make sure you find a dock to dock your boat or a place on land where you can stay in inclement weather.

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Better Boat

Set Sail: How to Enjoy Living on a Sailboat to the Fullest

Set Sail: How to Enjoy Living on a Sailboat to the Fullest

Whether it's your dream for retirement or your wish for tomorrow, living on a sailboat can be a dream come true. And, believe it or not, this liveaboard life can work out well for families, couples or singles who are living on a variety of budgets.

All you need is the will to make the jump to a liveaboard life and the energy to get your sailboat setup to accommodate your needs .

And of course, you'll need a sailboat. There are other types of boats that people live on, like trawlers , but sailboats have plenty of advantages .

Why Live on a Sailboat?

There are many reasons you might want to spend your days living on a sailboat. First of all, every day can be an adventure when you live aboard a sailboat. All you need to do is raise the anchor  and lines and hoist the sails and you can set off to make memories .

If you're looking for more downtime, living on a sailboat can also be wonderfully relaxing . Sailing on calm days or lounging about as you rest at anchor or in the harbor is just about the right speed of life for many people.

Contrary to popular misconception, liveaboard life can actually be quite affordable . You just need to budget accordingly with an eye toward routine costs, unforeseen repairs and for covering the rare but catastrophic issues that can arise, such as a fire or even a sinking.

Before you commit to living on a sailboat, know that the lifestyle does come with more inherent danger (remember when we talked about sinking a few seconds ago?) and responsibility than life on land.

But your house or condo is never going to carry you out over the shimmering waters at sunset or let you haul in a prize-winning marlin or bass. When your sailboat is your home, you can live out these dreams and so many more.

The way to enjoy liveaboard life? Be prepared for it.

A Quick Look at the Cost of Living on a Sailboat

If you're still actively working and earning income, it'll be important that you balance the cost of liveaboard life with your earnings and other expenses.

Many people live on a sailboat in retirement, and this requires even more careful planning. This is true first because your net worth is likely fixed or at least largely static (stock dividends and bonds might keep making you money, for example) but also because you probably won't spend the rest of your life on a boat.

Dodging the jib might be fine in your sixties and even your seventies, but it's probably not ideal much after that. Unless it is, and that's great.

Insurance Costs

While boat insurance isn't mandated in all parts of the United States, when your sailboat is your home, you're going to want to have it insured.

Sailboat insurance is generally calculated as around 1.5% of the boat's value, so a sailboat that's worth $40,000 will cost you around $600 to insure each year, and that's a small price to pay in the scheme of things.

Marina Costs

The fee a marina charges you to use a slip varies widely around the country (and the world) so there's no good range of costs to use.

In San Diego, you'll pay around $1,000 per month in many marinas.

In Baytown, Texas you'll pay only around $250 per month for a boat between 35 and 40 feet in length.

Do the research based on your area, and watch out for additional liveaboard fees, which are common.

Scraping, Painting and Other Maintenance

Every few years, you need to get a sailboat entirely out of the water and have it thoroughly cleaned, scraped of barnacles, repainted and generally repaired and maintained. This can cost several thousand dollars, so assume $1,000 per year is a safe bet, even though it's not an annual expense.

Unless you're able to live a very stripped-down lifestyle indeed, chances are good that you'll want to own more worldly possessions than you can store on your boat.

If you don't have friends or family around who are willing to let you stash boxes and bins of sundry goods at their homes, then you'll need to rent some storage space on land. This usually costs only between $50 to $100 per month, but everything adds up.

Water, Electricity, Fuel, Etc.

You need water to drink, bathe and cook, electricity for lights and radios and various types of fuel for heaters, stoves and (for most sailboats, anyway) for the backup engine.

Some marinas include power and water in their fees, but many don't. Do the research ahead of time and, if need be, do the math, too.

Setting Up Your Sailboat as Your Home

A sailboat offers freedom and adventure and often an affordable lifestyle, but one thing it doesn't offer is a plethora of free space. You'll be confined to a few hundred square feet of living area, with about 300 square feet serving as a decent average.

Many sailboats come with cabins that are hard to move or reconfigure, but you can still choose how you use the space.

Bedding Down

Your bedroom on a sailboat is probably not going to serve only for sleeping. It will likely also be your office, your den and your closet.

Choose the smallest bed you can comfortably sleep in and consider a setup that allows the bed to fold out of the way or also be used as a seat.

Make sure to maximize storage space underneath the bed.

Bathroom (AKA Head)

A boat's bathroom is going to be small and cramped. Just accept that. The head is also a frequent location for the growth of mold and mildew , as it's often moist and usually closed off. 

One good way to combat these issues is to rig up the door to stay open when the bathroom isn't in use. Also consider adding a fan, a  dehumidifier  and dehumidifier refill bags .

Speaking of boat bathrooms, you'll want to be sure to use marine and RV toilet paper , which is specifically designed to break down so that it doesn't clog marine septic systems . 

Featured Boat Care Product

Check Price on Amazon - Better Boat's mildew stain remover is perfect for use on boat covers, seats and tops as well as tents, outdoor furniture and other items. It removes stubborn stains to make upholstery look new. Use on vinyl , fiberglass, plastic, tile, grout and canvas. 

Kitchen (AKA Galley)

Your boat's kitchen is probably not going to be suitable for preparing a five-course banquet for 15 people. Oh well. What you can do to maximize its useful space is get creative.

That sink need not be wasted counter space, for example. Buy or fashion a cutting board that neatly covers it for when you're prepping a large meal.

And use your fridge wisely. Any food that doesn't need cold storage can be kept in cabinets or even in another room entirely, say under the bed, for example.

Folding furniture is key when you live aboard a sailboat. It's good to have at least one or two comfortable chairs and/or a couch, but as much as possible, use furniture that folds down for storage and for easy movement.

You can use a folding chair as extra seating in the cabin, on deck or on the dock, which will become your new front yard.

Three Great Places to Live Aboard a Sailboat

Your sailboat is your home, but where you have that home tied up matters too. You already know to look for costs associate with the marinas of various areas, but here are three reasons to consider these three locations other than money.

When you live aboard a sailboat in Boston, you're right beside the downtown area. You can even walk from several marina locations to centers of business, commerce and culture.

So, if you want great professional opportunities or you want to enjoy an urban lifestyle while still living on a boat, Boston is a great place to consider.

If you prize consistently warm, mild weather and you don't want to deal with the hurricanes that often swirl their way across Florida, then Southern California, and specifically San Diego, is a great place to live aboard a sailboat. The days are hot in the summer but the nights are cool all year round.  

Great Lakes

Living aboard a sailboat in any of the Great Lakes of North America means getting to enjoy all four of the year's seasons. Yes, it gets cold in the winter, but the fall and spring are both mild and lovely. During the warm summers, you can always take a dip.

Is Living on a Sailboat a Good Idea?

In short, yes. Yes it is. It just takes extra planning ahead, being ready for a contingency place to spend some time if there's a bad storm or if your boat needs repairs, and other such long-term thinking.

In taking the very long view, just know that if you plan to retire onto your boat, you'll almost surely have to move at least once more in your life, but hopefully not for a good many years.

living on a sailboat cost

  • choosing a selection results in a full page refresh

How Much Sailboats Cost On Average (380+ Prices Compared)

Turns out that owning a sailboat is pretty affordable. OK, it isn't cheap, but it can absolutely be done on a budget. In this article, I'll show you exactly what to expect.

Sure, super yachts are expensive, but so is everything super (except for maybe supermarkets). But a modest, used sailboat can be as cheap as $2,500 and an additional $1,400 per year.

It may come as a surprise to you that you can get a decent sailboat for as little as $1,500 on Craigslist.

Average sailboat costs at a glance

We've compared thousands of listings, so you don't have to. If you just want the ballpark figures, here they are:

The average price of new sailboats is $425,000 ($127,000 to $821,000). The average price of used sailboats is $278,000 ($67,000 to $555,000). Maintenance costs are on average $2,000 - $3,000 per year, and the average total annual cost is $3,000 to $7,000.

Of course the price of a sailboat depends on our choices. We decide whether sailing is a rich man's game, or actually a very good holiday investment. (It beats driving to a bungalow park for sure - both cost-wise and the experience itself.)

living on a sailboat cost

How Much To Charter a Superyacht? (Less Than You Think)

Why you should trust us These figures are based on our latest research which was last updated September 26th 2023 . We do this research every year, giving us very accurate numbers and clear insight into the trend of sailboat prices. We've literally compared thousands of sailboat listings over the years, and we've done so methodically. The research is done by our researcher Tay, who is an engineer by trade.

This will be a long article because there are so many aspects to cover. I'd like to spend some time exploring the costs of actually buying the boat. Then I want to go into recurring costs , like mooring, maintenance, and insurance.

To really drive home what you're getting into , I'll give four real-life examples. These examples include every expense as a separate line-item. And we'll go over them line-by-line together.

Then I'll share our exact research results with you . This will include all our numbers: new vs. used, average price per foot, and much more. These are extremely detailed numbers (you don't have to read this if you don't want to).

At the end of the article, we'll discuss why a boat doesn't just cost money: she can actually make you some if you wanted.

  • A used family week-ender with a small cabin will cost roughly $30,000 (all-in for the first year).
  • If you dream of sailing around the world, expect to spend around $100,000.
  • New sailboats on average cost twice as much as used boats.
  • Maintenance cost are 5-10% of the boat's value per year. Docking costs are roughly $800 - $2,500 per year.
  • Sailboat prices have gone up 30% this year.

Lean sailboat in blue, protected waters with just the mainsail up

On this page:

Average sailboat cost: 2023 summary, examples of popular sailboats, and how much they cost, what does it cost to buy a sailboat, what does it cost to own a sailboat, make or save some money, related questions.

Before we really get into it, I first want to give you the quick rundown. So I've summarized our research for you.

Buying a sailboat

Small boats are up to 30 foot long . They'll be very capable and great for solo sailors or small families who want to go on day trips, or short week-end trips on inland waters. Some of them will have cabins and sleeping quarters, although small.

Medium boats are between 30 and 50 foot long . They'll host larger parties and will be more suited for longer trips, coastal sailing, or even bluewater cruising. Sailboat length isn't necessarily the most important feature for that, though.

Large boats are 50 foot and up . This is proper yacht territory, and they'll be a lot more luxurious, and also exponentially more expensive.

If you buy via a broker, you typically get more reliable boats, but also pay more. If you buy off of Craigslist, you get a fat discount, but there are more lemons on there too.

You could hire a boat surveyor who will inspect the boat before you buy it (much like when you buy a house). Those surveys are not very expensive and can be worth your money.

Owning a sailboat

There are a lot of costs involved with simply owning a boat. The biggest expenses will be docking and maintenance.

Those two alone will account for roughly 80% of your yearly expenses.

  • Maintenance : 5-10% of the boat's value
  • Docking : $800-$2,500 per year on average, depeding on location

If we want to know what we're getting ourselves into, we should know every expense to the dot.

Below, we'll go over four very different case studies. I'm hoping one of these will relate to your specific situation. It'll show you what to expect and how to budget for your purchase.

The four sailboat case studies

  • What does it cost if you want to keep your boat in good shape and have a good sailing experience? - aka: most people
  • What does it cost if you ONLY spend the absolute minimum amount to keep her floating?
  • If I want to sail the world on a budget, what's the absolute minimum?
  • If sailing is more of a status thing to you, how much money COULD you spend?

There are a lot of great boats out there for a good price and there are also some boats that are so expensive (or so cheap), it's not even fun to look at them.

But one thing's for sure: there are plenty of boats available, and even if you're on a very tight budget, you could absolutely still make it work. Sailing in and of itself is actually not that expensive: wind is free, water is free, boats can be cheap - if you're willing to look around a bit. It's all the little extras that add up quickly.

Listed below are 4 boats that make great beginner boats. Since more than 80% of all boats that are bought are second-hand, I'll use the prices of used boats I found on Craigslist.

If you want to know exactly where the numbers come from, don't worry, I'll explain them after the 4 examples.

1. Island Packet 26' for stressless weekends on the lake

The one-time costs are $24,860 Your total recurring costs are $5,650 per year, or $471 per month

Let's say you're like me and most other people and just want a nice boat without too much hassle. So you pay people for complex maintenance. You do the required maintenance and save up for future repairs. You do a little yourself, which saves you a couple of hundred of bucks a year. You also join a (cheap) sailing club to learn how to not trash the boat. You get the right trailer, and you save up some money for future repairs. You don't want to buy a bad boat, so you pay a fair purchase price

One-Time Costs:

Recurring costs:, 2. extreme low budget catalina 22'.

Catlina 22 white sailboat in marina

Ok, I'm very interested in how cheap you could actually go (in theory). Is it do-able to buy a very cheap sailboat and just keep her afloat, never change sails, and only pay for maintenance that is absolutely necessary to not sink?

In this scenario, I don't care about speed, so I don't change sails. I certainly won't join a sailing club, and I try to save some money on the marina by boondocking. I also happen to live in a cheap state registration and tax-wise.

Docking costs can get out of hand For an average sailboat, depending on your area and wishes, up to $5,000/year . Read everything about docking costs

I try to pay as little as possible for the boat itself (and I've actually found a Catalina 22 for $2,250 on Craigslist today!). I don't save up for rigging and hardware (tomorrows' worries). I try to get an extra 2 years out of my bottom paint and I only do the essential repairs, and I do them myself. But because I saved so much on the purchase, this little boat needs a lot of maintenance.

Luckily, I have time on my hands and know my way around engines and rigging, so I do all of it myself (with the help of YouTube).

I don't bother with winterizing my boat, I'll just sail somewhere warm. Oh, and I'll use the engine as little as possible to save on gas.

Will your boat be happy? Definitely not, but your wallet will be (for now). Can it be done? It's optimistic, but yes, I think it can be done. But you have to be mechanically inclined, and pretty creative.

The one-time costs are $2,428 Your total recurring costs are $1,380 per year, or $115 per month

Recurring Costs

3. low budget 35' ocean cruiser for traveling the world.

living on a sailboat cost

If you dream of crossing oceans, you need a comfortable ride. Usually, most sailors pick a boat that's between 32' - 50' for two person ocean cruising. Anything under 32' gets pretty uncomfortable in high waves, although it can be done.

But this is also the range that gets expensive - quickly . So if we're on a tight budget, but also need a good and reliable boat: how much will it cost?

The boat will cost you $35,000. For this price, I've seen a beautiful 1983 wooden cutter (by Robert Tucker), multiple Beneteau Oceanis from '88 - '89, multiple Bavarias ... plenty of solid choices on the second-hand market here.

In this example, you don't join any sailing clubs (I assume you're pretty experienced if you want to cross oceans). You also don't winterize (you're sailing the Caribbean by now). No trailer, as you won't haul it out of the water any time soon.

You do pay a fair price for the boat because you don't want any surprises during your Tour du Monde. In need of a lot of bottom paint , since you're in saltwater most of the time. It's also a good idea to invest in at least SOME navigation equipment, so for $500 I've added a simple but capable GPS chartplotter and compass.

You can get a cheap but reliable chartplotter and compass for less than $500 - in total. If you want to learn more, head over to the recommended gear section .

The one-time costs are $37,590 Your total recurring costs are $5,425 per year, or $452 per month

4. Powerful 40' Yacht (and everything that goes with it)

Saloon of large yacht ready for dinner

Let's say you're in the game for the fame. What does it cost me to own a grande yacht with all luxuries (and costs) that go with it?

I join an expensive sailing club, hire pros that maintain the thing beautifully, and I also pay for winterization, the best trailer I can find. I replace my sails and running rigging every 5 years - since speed matters to me. Because she's my pride, I paint her every year. I spend an additional 500 bucks a year on special soaps and waxes.

I want a prime mooring location, so I pay a premium. I also get a small boat to hang from the large boat, to get to shore more quickly.

The one-time costs are $166,400 Your total recurring costs are $15,150 per year, or $1,263 per month

There are a couple of important factors that determine how much money you end up spending.

  • Size - length determines mooring costs, insurance, amount of paint on your hull, literally everything gets more expensive with every foot of length
  • New vs. used - of course, it makes all the difference whether you buy new or used. Typically, the price of a 25-year old used sailboat vs. a comparable new one is 3-4 times lower ($60,000 vs $200,000).

With used sailboats, I find that the price generally increases rapidly from 30 feet onwards

It's the same with new sailboats - or actually, it keeps increasing with every extra couple of feet. The reason is that as the boat gets bigger, it also gets more luxurious (upholstery, finishing, equipment).

The average price of a new sailboat per foot in USD:

  • under 30 ft: $3,217 per ft
  • 30 - 50 ft: $7,625 - $11,128 ft
  • over 50 ft: $14,927 - $78,033 per ft

On average, second-hand sailboats go at 1/3 - 1/4 of the cost of a new boat:

  • under 30 ft: $1,773 per ft
  • 30 - 50 ft: $6,473 per ft
  • over 50 ft: $10,091 - $36,889 per ft

If this is too much for you, you could always rent a boat instead. I recommend chartering. You can get great sailboats at great prices. Check out my charter recommendation here .

living on a sailboat cost

Cost of buying a sailboat

Price of new sailboats.

I've looked at the prices of thousands of yachts (really) on one of the largest yacht marketplaces in the world (- not manually, don't worry: with the help of their search function). This is what I came up with:

Source: Yachtworld.com Q3 2023

The price of new sailboats ranges from roughly $1,765 - $78,033 per foot. I've used these numbers to calculate the following list:

Prices per foot in USD

Here's the detailed price per foot for all lengths from 20 to 100 feet:

Price of used sailboats

We did the same for used sailboats, comparing thousands of listings. Here are the complete data:

Source: Yachtworld Q3 2023

The price of used sailboats ranges from roughly $882-$36,889 per foot . Here's the detailed price per foot for all lengths from 20 to 100 feet:

Prices on Craigslist

The price of used sailboats ranges from roughly $476-$2,098 per foot.

To get an average of the price of a used sailboat, I went over to Craigslist. I took the first 20 relevant search results for sailboats under, and over 30 feet.

Of course, the averages here are very speculative, as prices vary from day to day. But it gives a broad range of what to expect.

Over 50 feet, listings become meagre. I believe people tend to not place their 80-ft sailboats on Craigslist, but sell it through a broker instead.

Median Craigslist price of a used sailboat:

  • under 30 ft: $11,065
  • over 30 ft: $87,020

I've calculated the median price , not the average. The median is the price that's most common within the price range. This way the highest and lowest prices don't have as much impact.

Average Craigslist price-per-foot of a used sailboat:

  • under 30 ft: $476 per ft
  • over 30 ft: $2,098 per ft

This is what I found on Craigslist under 30 feet:

Washington dc.

Source: Craigslist Washington DC Q3 2023

Los Angeles

Source: Craigslist Los Angeles Q3 2023

Source: Craigslist Houston Q3 2023

South Florida

Source: Craigslist Miami Q3 2023

Source: Craigslist New York Q3 2023

Here's what I found for 30 feet and up:

Sailboat price development.

Compared to our 2022 research, the median price of new sailboats has gone up 22.5% (from $251,000 to $307,500). The average price has gone up 33.6% (from $248,000 to $331,250).

The average price of used sailboats under 30 ft on Craigslist has gone up 30% (from $8,500 to $11,000).

Sailboat prices research archive

You can check our earlier research data here:

  • 2022 average sailboat price data
  • 2019 average sailboat price data

living on a sailboat cost

Catamarans are 60% more expensive

If you dream of owning a catamaran, you should expect to pay roughly 60% more for the boat, and 60% more on annual cost like upkeep and mooring. There are exceptions, of course, and for some boat lengths, new catamarans may be slightly more affordable than a monohull.

I've researched thousands of catamaran listings as well to come up with those numbers. The exact numbers are summarized in my guide on the average cost of buying and owning a catamaran. It's very similar to this article, so if you like this and are curious about catamaran prices as well, I encourage you to check it out.

living on a sailboat cost

Average Cost of Buying & Owning a Catamaran (With 4 Examples)

So let's take a quick look at the costs for owning a sailboat.

One-time costs:

  • Registration : costs of registration differ per state, but usually run anywhere from $3 - $10 per foot.
  • Taxes : differs per state and country. Most governments want you to pay property tax and sales tax. Sales tax is usually about 5%. Property tax varies and is more complex, so I'll leave that up to you to figure out.
  • Trailer : $1,000
  • Sailing club initiation fee : $1,500 - $4,000

Recurring costs:

  • Mooring : $10-15 per foot per year (can be much higher for prime locations)
  • Insurance : typically 1.5% of the total value of the boat. So a $50,000 26' cruiser will cost 750 bucks.
  • Maintenance : a good rule of thumb is 10% of the boat value. Expect to spend anywhere between $500 - $2,500 per year for small to mid-sized boats.
  • Fuel : depends on how much you use the boat and the engine, but on average something between $100 - $150. - Find out how much fuel a sailboat uses in my article here (opens in new tab).
  • International License : if you want to sail on international waters, you have to get your ICC (International Certificate of Competence ). Plan on spending anywhere between 400 to 500 dollars.
  • Safety equipment : plan on spending anywhere between 150 to 600 bucks for lifejackets, first aid kit, and distress signals.
  • Winterize boat : $2,000
  • Sailing club: $800 - $1,500

living on a sailboat cost

Cost of owning a boat

Horizon of masts in marina

Maintenance

Your average maintenance cost will be roughly $144 dollars per month for boats under 30', or just under $2,000 per year.

Maintenance involves a lot of hidden costs We took an in-depth look at everything . The result is a comprehensive article that lays it all out for new boat owners. Read all about maintenance costs

Gas engines run for about 1,500 hours, diesel engines run for 5,000. After that, you'll need to change them out.

Most engines will last you about 20 years.

A standard 15HP or 20HP outboard gas engine will cost you about $5,000 - $6,000 and needs replacing every 20 years or so. If you do the work yourself, it's more something like $1,000 - $1,500.

A smaller engine uses less fuel, reducing your total cost You can actually use a pretty small engine for most sailboats. To learn how small (and efficient) you can go, I've written a guide on how to calculate it yourself. Read all about outboard engine size

Replacing the sails and rigging

Most people that own a sailboat will have to replace the sails and rigging at least once in their lifetime. Replacing the mast is uncommon, but if you're unlucky and get demasted, it will need to be fixed. So I've added it to the "be aware this might happen" list - but won't add it to the monthly recurring costs.

If you need to replace the mast and boom, prepare to spend anywhere between $15,000 - $25,000.

I won't go into detail, but I have written a long article about the cost of new sails (opens in new tab). It's a really helpful post (with a formula) if you want to know what to expect.

Good quality cruising sails will need to be replaced every 10 years or so.

The cost of new sails is on average:

  • 26' Bermuda Sloop rig will cost you about $1,000 - $2,500.
  • 34' Bermuda Sloop rig will cost you about $3,000 - $5,000.

The cost of the new rigging is on average:

  • Standing rigging - every 10 years at $4,000
  • Running rigging - every 5-10 years at $5,000

Bottom Paint

Your boat will need bottom paint roughly every 2 years (could be longer, but to be safe, let's keep it at two). It's also called antifouling paint because it helps to protect your hull from weeds, barnacles, and so on. Barnacles can slice through your boat's bellow! So you don't want them on there.

On average, it costs about $15 to $20 per foot to get your sailboat hull painted professionally.

For a 26' sailboat, that's just 500 bucks. Money well spent.

Replacing safety equipment

USCG safety regulations require you to replace safety gear regularly.

  • Lifejackets have to be replaced every 10 years.
  • Flares have to be replaced every 42 months. You could consider buying a LED electric distress light instead, which will last you a lifetime.
  • If you carry a life-raft you'll need to replace that every 12 years as well.

Adhering to the minimum safety requirements shouldn't cost you more than 150 - 250 dollars every 5 years. But if you want the good stuff, need more fire extinguishers, plan on spending more like $600. If you want a life raft, that's another $1,500.

To avoid you have to go cheap on your safety gear, I've put it in the budget for $500.

If you want to know exactly what the USCG safety requirements are, including checklists , definitely check out my article here.

Winterizing your boat

Winterization is an often overlooked cost, but it can be one of the largest expenses each year. If you're like me, and not so lucky to live in Florida, you need to winterize your boat.

Failing to winterize it will increase your maintenance cost over time, as the engine wears out more quickly, and your plumbing and equipment will fall apart. Winter storms and ice can damage the hull and mast as well. Learn all about the dangers of failing to winterize here .

It's the best way to protect your boat in wintertime, period.

It consists of two parts:

  • Winterizing - costs $500 to $1000 - This is the preparation for winter storage. You flush the cooling system with anti-freeze, and the boat gets wrapped in a shrink wrap cover.
  • Winter storage - costs $50 per ft on average

Boat wrapped in white shrink wrap

Some other maintenance costs:

  • Batteries: deep cycle batteries need replacing every 4-6 years at $600
  • Deck hardware: every 20-30 years (bullseyes, tiller, eye straps) at $1,500

Joining a Sailing Club

If you're new to sailing, you might want to consider joining a sailboat club. This might help you to get tips, make friends, and learn in a safe environment. Most clubs also organize races, which are a great way to quickly improve your sailing skills.

But it comes at a cost. Sailing clubs are very expensive.

Initiation fees range anywhere between $1,000 - $4,000. But that's not all.

Then there's an annual fee of $500 - $1,000 per year. And lot's of additional fees: for dining, lockers, etc.

If you're willing to skip Christmas, go for it.

How about making up for some of those losses? There's just no better feeling than earning back all that cash with the same thing that you've spent it on in the first place.

There are lot's of ways to earn a little extra with your boat - if you're willing to put in the effort. Here are a few ideas:

  • hire yourself out as the captain of a personalized cruise (for families, newly-weds, groups of colleagues)
  • take people to go fishing
  • hire your boat out to yacht charter companies
  • teach someone to sail
  • take photographers, film crews, and artists on tours
  • organize dolphin and whale watching tours
  • delivery of cargo - some places just can't be reached by car, for example, the city center of Giethoorn (Dutch Venice). So you have a competitive edge here!

Giethoorn, farmers manors standing besides water way (no road)

Some ideas to save money:

  • install solar panels (no more dock power)
  • buy a and cheap small boat (kayak or someting) to get to offshore anchorage (which are cheaper)
  • shop around for insurance
  • get gas at the gas station, not the marina
  • do your own maintenance as much as possible
  • find a friend with water access to avoid mooring
  • use it a lot (prevents stuff from breaking)
  • fix things that are broken immediately
  • keep your sails out of the sun
  • do your own upgrades
For example, convert your winches to self-tailing yourself. I was really surprised by how cheaply this can be done yourself. Read my article on how to do it here (opens in new tab).

How much does it cost to paint a boat hull? Painting a boat hull with antifouling paint will usually cost between $15 - $20 per feet. For example, a 25-foot sailboat will cost roughly $500. A 35-foot sailboat will cost $800 to repaint. You can get premium paints and services, which can quadruple the cost. Typically, a boat needs to be repainted every two years.

Why are used sailboats so cheap? Sailboats require a lot of skill and patience. They can be quite expensive to maintain and to keep in slip. Some people find they can't afford the marina rent, upkeep, and other costs; sometimes they simply don't want to; others don't want to sail anymore. In some cases, expensive and important parts are missing.

How much does it cost to charter a sailboat? The price of a charter depends on location, size of the vessel, crew or bareboat chartering, and so on. However, on average, a bareboat yacht charter will cost anywhere from $5,000 - $10,000 per week. Crewed charters cost anywhere between $10,000 - $15,000 per week. Superyachts may cost up to $150,000 per week.

Thanks to Jean-Pierre Bazard for letting me use his wrapped boat photo under CC BY-SA 3.0

Pinterest image for How Much Sailboats Cost On Average (380+ Prices Compared)

Excellent write up. This is honestly the type of information that’s hard to find as you’re trying to get into sailing. I’m a car guy. People think of car collecting like Jay Leno, but it can be done cheaply. I get the impression sailing is the same way.

Shawn Buckles

Hi Stephen, thanks a lot for your kind words, really appreciate it! It really is kind of the same, it’s all about how much time and effort you’re willing to put in. As with anything, lots can be achieved with energy and attention.

Thanks again.

Serious question. Why are you buying a trailer for a 40 ft yacht? That doesn’t even make sense.

Hi Christian, thanks for the remark. 40 ft boat trailers do actually exist, although I agree that most people probably won’t trailer a 40 ft yacht.

Thank a lot for the very useful information„ now you caused me to start thinking why don’t I start sailing lessons to do round the world in a sail boat ( instead of an aircraft)

Hello Hatem, you’re very welcome. Smooth sailing, or flying.

Hi, I am not familiar with boats. My boss just asked me to find a nice boat for him. Thank you for this informative post, this helps me so much. By the way, I already found a site selling yachts here in the Philippines, here’s the link https://rayomarine.com Do you have any suggestion with brand and boat type. Thank you! More power!

Very good information, but I am having a hard time matching these number here in Southern California. Cheapest slip I found so for is $375/month, on a very run down and far from the ocean marina. At the harbor that I want, the cheapest I found is $800/month. Even if I was given a boat for free, just keeping it in place would cost me almost 10k/year

Excellent writeup, Shawn! Thank you very much for all your hard work and I look forward to reading your other articles on the subject.

Great info! We are in the market for our first sailboat and this answered many of our questions. Although I do agree with Rafael that slip prices in Southern California our much higher than what you listed. The marina we like will run about $1000 a month.

Thank you for your artical…a LOT of useful information included in it sir. I have been thinking about buying one for two years now, since I moved to a harbor town near where I grew up. We always had motor boats when I was young. But, I always loved sailing MUCH much more! I love the quiet of it, and always something to do, rather than just sit, drive, gas it up, dock, repeat. Laugh!! It’s about a ten min walk to the marina from here..and I have nothing but time. However my health is pretty bad. I just don’t know if I could handle it all alone. I’m thinking maybe a 25-30 foot cruiser. Thanks again sir!! I look forward to reading your other articles. Sincerely, Gary Heaton Olcott, Ny

Thanks a million! First time I come across an article that complete and with so much effort. For people thinking about buying a boat the info you provide is priceless.

John Callahan

Good information, but any article on prices should have a date associated with it. I see no indication of when this article was posted.

Thank you so much for this well done article. We’re looking at getting a boat and you’ve answered questions we didn’t even know we had.

Awesome article good job i am from Slovenia and thinking about buyng sailboat and sail for 6 monhs per year.I hawe bean looking on Holland sites too buy one can i maybe find auctions too buy a sailingboat i bawe wach Troswijk but they do t hawe any up ther?

Many of the costs quoted look very low to me, especially in the first article. Was this written a long time ago?

Excellent article. Am wondering though how do I dispose of a used boat if I get tired of it and can’t sell it or possibly run it aground. Maybe a 40 ft sloop?

Chris Kenny

Thanks for this infor.

Peace sailing.

Benjamin Sklar

Extremely helpful and interesting article! Thank you!

John Wallace

This is the most accurate information I have ever seen about boat ownership costs.

Many thanks!!!!

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Affordable Ways to Live on a Sailboat: Expert Tips for Cheap Living

Alex Morgan

living on a sailboat cost

Living on a sailboat can be an exciting and adventurous way to embrace a simple and cost-effective lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking a temporary escape or a long-term living arrangement, living on a sailboat offers unique benefits and challenges. Understanding the essentials, from choosing the right sailboat to reducing living costs, generating income, and embracing sustainable living practices, is crucial. Let’s explore the key aspects of living on a sailboat and discover tips for a comfortable and enjoyable sailboat lifestyle.

Introduction to Living on a Sailboat:

Living on a sailboat provides a sense of freedom and connection with nature. It allows you to disconnect from the complexities of modern life and embrace a minimalistic approach. It’s essential to be aware of the benefits and challenges of sailboat living before embarking on this journey.

Choosing the Right Sailboat:

Selecting a suitable sailboat is a crucial step in creating an affordable and comfortable living space. Factors such as size, layout, condition, and budget need to be carefully considered. Tips for buying a used sailboat can help ensure a wise investment.

Essential Equipment and Supplies:

Equipping your sailboat with the necessary tools and supplies is essential for a smooth sailing experience. Must-have equipment, along with stocking up on supplies, will help you navigate life on a sailboat with ease and preparedness.

Reducing Living Costs on a Sailboat:

Living on a sailboat can significantly reduce living costs compared to traditional housing. Minimizing marina fees, managing energy consumption, reducing water usage, thrifty grocery shopping, and DIY maintenance and repairs are key strategies to keep expenses low.

Generating Income while Living on a Sailboat:

Finding ways to generate income while living on a sailboat is essential to sustain your lifestyle. Remote work opportunities, offering boat-related services, and freelancing or starting a remote business are options to explore.

Living Sustainably on a Sailboat:

Embracing sustainable practices is not only beneficial for the environment but also contributes to a self-sufficient sailboat lifestyle. Utilizing renewable energy sources, reducing waste through recycling, and practicing local and sustainable fishing are ways to live harmoniously with nature.

Tips for a Comfortable and Enjoyable Sailboat Living:

Maintaining good hygiene, staying safe on a sailboat, and finding community and socializing are vital aspects of ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable sailboat living experience.

Living on a sailboat can offer a unique and fulfilling way of life. By understanding the fundamentals and adopting practical tips, you can embark on this extraordinary adventure with confidence and make sailboat living a memorable experience.

Key takeaways: 1. Living on a sailboat maximizes freedom and adventure: Living on a sailboat allows for a mobile and flexible lifestyle, with the ability to explore new destinations and beautiful coastal areas. 2. Living on a sailboat requires careful planning and consideration: Choosing the right sailboat and stocking up on essential equipment and supplies is crucial for a comfortable and successful sailboat living experience. 3. Living on a sailboat can be cost-effective: By minimizing marina fees, managing energy consumption, reducing water usage, practicing thrifty grocery shopping, and DIY maintenance and repairs, it is possible to live on a sailboat cheaply and sustainably.

Benefits and Challenges of Living on a Sailboat

Living on a sailboat offers a unique set of benefits and challenges. From the freedom and adventure of exploring different destinations to the deep connection with nature, living on a sailboat provides a fulfilling and fulfilling way of life.

One of the major benefits of living on a sailboat is the freedom it offers. You have the opportunity to sail to remote islands and discover hidden coves, experiencing new adventures along the way. This sense of freedom and adventure is unmatched.

Living on a sailboat also allows you to deeply connect with nature. Waking up to stunning sunrises, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and being surrounded by marine life enhances your appreciation for the natural world. The beauty and tranquility of the ocean become a part of your daily life.

Another advantage of living on a sailboat is the simplicity and minimalism it encourages. With limited space, you learn to prioritize essentials and let go of unnecessary possessions. This minimalist lifestyle leads to a more fulfilling and clutter-free life, allowing you to focus on what truly matters.

Living on a sailboat fosters self-sufficiency . You rely on your own skills and resources to navigate, maintain the boat, and manage energy and water usage. This cultivates a strong sense of independence and self-reliance .

Being part of the sailing community is another benefit of living on a sailboat. The sense of camaraderie among like-minded individuals who share your passion for sailing and adventure is unparalleled. You have the opportunity to connect with others who understand and appreciate your lifestyle.

Living on a sailboat also comes with its own set of challenges. Adapting to weather changes, handling maintenance and repairs, and managing limited resources require flexibility and problem-solving skills . This lifestyle demands adaptability and resilience .

Living on a sailboat means being weather-dependent . You need to plan your travels and daily activities around the wind and currents. While this can be challenging, it also adds a sense of rhythm to your lifestyle and allows you to appreciate the power of nature.

To make the most out of living on a sailboat, it is important to embrace both the benefits and the challenges. Maintain a positive mindset, continue honing your sailing skills, and be adaptable to enhance your experience on the water.

Choosing the Right Sailboat

Looking to embark on an adventurous lifestyle on the open sea? Let’s set sail and explore the key aspects of choosing the right sailboat. From factors to consider when selecting your vessel to valuable tips for buying a used sailboat, we’ll navigate through the sea of options and guide you toward making an informed decision. So, hoist the anchor and join us on this exciting journey to finding the perfect sailboat for your dreams of living aboard.

Factors to Consider when Choosing a Sailboat

When choosing a sailboat, there are several factors to consider. You should take into account the size of the sailboat, the number of people living on board, and the desired comfort level. It’s important to consider the number of cabins, berths, and storage space needed.

Sailing performance is another important factor to consider. You should assess the sailboat’s speed , maneuverability , and its ability to handle different weather conditions .

The construction material of the sailboat is also a crucial aspect to think about. You should consider whether the sailboat is made of fiberglass , aluminum , or wood . Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of durability and maintenance .

Before purchasing a sailboat, it’s essential to thoroughly inspect its condition. Look for any signs of damage or wear and tear . It may be beneficial to hire a professional surveyor to assess the sailboat before making a decision.

Age is another factor to take into account. Older boats may require more maintenance and repairs, so it’s important to consider the age of the sailboat before making a purchase.

It’s crucial to determine your budget and search for sailboats that fall within that range. Don’t forget to consider additional costs such as equipment, repairs, and marina fees .

The layout and amenities of the sailboat are also significant factors to evaluate. Ensure that the sailboat’s layout meets your living requirements. Consider amenities such as a functional galley , bathroom facilities , and comfortable seating areas.

Researching the reputation and resale value of the sailboat brand and model is also recommended. This will ensure that the sailboat retains its value over time.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when choosing a sailboat that suits your needs and preferences.

Tips for Buying a Used Sailboat

1. When purchasing a used sailboat, it is important to thoroughly inspect the hull and deck for any damage or signs of wear. Look out for cracks, soft spots, or indications of previous repairs.

2. Don’t forget to check the rigging and sails to ensure they are in good condition. Keep an eye out for fraying, corrosion, missing or damaged parts that might need attention.

3. Before making a final decision, make sure to test the engine and other mechanical systems to ensure they are functioning properly. In some cases, it might be a good idea to hire a professional surveyor who can thoroughly inspect these systems on your behalf.

4. It is equally important to inspect the electrical and plumbing systems of the sailboat for any issues or potential problems. This step is crucial to ensure that these systems meet your needs and are safe to use.

5. In order to have a better understanding of the sailboat’s overall condition, take the time to research its history and maintenance records. This will help you identify any evidence of neglect or improper maintenance.

Pro-tip: Prioritize getting a sea trial before finalizing your purchase. This will allow you to assess the boat’s performance and handling on the water, giving you a better idea of its suitability for your needs.

Essential Equipment and Supplies

Living on a sailboat can be an exciting and cost-effective way to experience a different kind of lifestyle. In this section, we’ll explore the essential equipment and supplies you’ll need to make your sailboat life comfortable and stress-free. From must-have equipment that ensures smooth sailing to stocking up on supplies for a self-sufficient life at sea, we’ll cover it all. So, get ready to hoist your sails and embark on an adventure that’s both thrilling and budget-friendly!

Must-Have Equipment for Living on a Sailboat

– When it comes to living on a sailboat, must-have equipment is essential. This includes anchoring equipment, safety equipment, navigational instruments, communication devices, galley equipment, electrical systems, plumbing systems, and mooring and docking equipment.

– Anchoring equipment , such as an anchor, chain, and anchor line, is crucial for securely mooring the boat in various locations.

– Safety equipment is of utmost importance for ensuring the safety of everyone on board. This includes life jackets, throwable flotation devices, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits.

– Navigational instruments are essential for safely navigating the waters. These may include a compass, GPS unit, and charts to guide the sailor in the right direction.

– Communication devices , like a VHF radio or a satellite phone, are crucial for staying connected and seeking assistance from other vessels and emergency services.

– Galley equipment is necessary for cooking and storing food. Must-have items for the galley include a stove, refrigerator or cooler, pots and pans, cutlery, and storage containers.

– Electrical systems , including batteries, solar panels, and inverters, are important for powering lights, electronics, and other appliances on the sailboat.

– Plumbing systems are essential for access to freshwater and maintaining hygiene. This includes freshwater tanks, a water pump, and a marine toilet.

– Mooring and docking equipment , such as dock fenders, lines, and cleats, are necessary for safely securing the sailboat, protecting it from damage, and ensuring stability while docked.

Stocking Up on Supplies

When living on a sailboat, it’s important to have all the necessary supplies for your journey. Here are the key items you should stock up on:

– Food and Water : Purchase non-perishable food items that can be easily stored and prepared on the boat. Stock up on canned goods, dried fruits, nuts, and grains. Make sure you have enough fresh water for drinking and cooking.

– First Aid Kit : Prepare a comprehensive first aid kit that includes bandages, antiseptic ointment, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications. Don’t forget to include seasickness medication.

– Cooking Equipment : Bring along pots, pans, and cooking tools. Make sure you have a reliable stove or grill for cooking meals onboard.

– Safety Equipment : Have enough life jackets, signaling devices like flares or a whistle, fire extinguishers, and a well-stocked toolbox for minor repairs.

– Cleaning Supplies : Stock up on dish soap, sponges, laundry detergent, and garbage bags. Keeping your living space clean and organized is essential for comfort and hygiene.

By carefully stocking up on these supplies, you’ll be well-prepared for your sailboat living adventure.

Reducing Living Costs on a Sailboat

Living on a sailboat can be a thrilling adventure, but it’s important to minimize costs to make it sustainable in the long run. In this section, we will explore practical strategies to reduce living expenses on a sailboat. From minimizing marina fees to managing energy consumption, reducing water usage, thrifty grocery shopping, and DIY maintenance and repairs, we’ll uncover savvy techniques that will help you live affordably while enjoying the freedom and beauty of a life on the open sea.

Minimizing Marina Fees

Minimizing marina fees is of utmost importance to sailboat residents. Here are some effective strategies that can help reduce docking and mooring costs:

  • Look for discounted rates: Many marinas offer discounts for long-term stays. It is wise to inquire about monthly or annual contracts as they can significantly reduce fees.
  • Consider off-season rates: Marinas often have lower rates during the off-season. Taking advantage of these times can help minimize expenses.
  • Share a slip: If you don’t need a full slip, consider sharing a space with another boat owner. Sharing expenses can save money for both parties involved.
  • Anchor out: Instead of docking at a marina, you can choose to anchor out in a designated anchorage area. This option is either free or significantly cheaper than marina fees, but it does require more self-sufficiency.
  • Join a boating association: Some associations offer member benefits, such as discounted dockage fees at partner marinas. Research and join these associations to avail of potential savings.
  • Utilize transient slips: When passing through an area, opt for transient slips instead of long-term contracts. These are typically cheaper and allow for short-term facility use.
  • Maximize efficiency: Keeping your boat well-maintained can help minimize costly repairs and upgrades. Efficiently managing energy consumption and reducing water usage can also result in savings on utilities.

By implementing these strategies, sailboat residents can effectively minimize marina fees and make their lifestyle more affordable.

Managing Energy Consumption

Managing energy consumption is crucial for a sustainable and efficient lifestyle on a sailboat. To effectively manage energy, here are some strategies you can incorporate:

1. Install solar panels: Solar power is a clean and renewable energy source that can meet your electrical needs.

2. Use energy-efficient marine appliances: Opt for appliances specifically designed for marine use that consume less power.

3. Utilize LED lighting: LED bulbs are energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional incandescent bulbs.

4. Implement a wind generator: Harness the power of the wind to generate electricity and supplement your energy requirements.

5. Maximize natural ventilation: Open windows, hatches, and vents to promote air circulation and reduce reliance on power-hungry fans or air conditioning.

In addition to these strategies, it is crucial to be mindful of your energy usage by turning off lights, electronics, and appliances when they are not in use. By adopting these energy-saving practices, you can reduce your carbon footprint, conserve battery power, and spend more time at sea.

Reducing Water Usage

Fixing leaks is an important step in reducing water usage. Regularly checking for and repairing leaks in plumbing fixtures and pipes can help prevent water waste. Installing low-flow showerheads and faucets can help to reduce water flow without compromising water pressure. Remember to keep your showers short, aiming for showers under 5 minutes, to conserve water. Another way to reduce water usage is by collecting and reusing water. Consider gathering rainwater or graywater for non-potable purposes such as flushing toilets or watering plants. When choosing appliances, opt for ones with high energy star ratings to ensure water efficiency. Remember to turn off faucets when they’re not in use to avoid unnecessary running water. Use your dishwasher efficiently by only running a cycle when it’s full, maximizing water use. When watering plants, do so in the morning or evening and use targeted watering methods instead of sprinklers to minimize evaporation. Regularly check for and promptly repair toilet leaks to prevent water waste. It is important to implement water-saving practices and educate everyone about water conservation. Encourage the adoption of water-saving habits to further reduce water usage.

Thrifty Grocery Shopping

When living on a sailboat, it’s important to practice thrifty grocery shopping to save money and maximize storage space. Here are some budget-friendly tips:

1. Plan meals and create a shopping list before going to the store. This avoids impulse purchases and ensures buying only what is needed.

2. Take advantage of discounts, sales, coupons, and loyalty programs to save money on groceries.

3. Buy in bulk when possible , considering storage space limitations on the sailboat.

4. Choose generic or store-brand products that are often as good as name-brands but cost less.

5. Shop for fresh locally grown produce at farmers markets and local grocery stores for lower prices compared to larger chains.

6. Opt for non-perishable and long-lasting foods like canned goods, dry pasta, rice, and beans to be more economical.

7. Avoid pre-packaged convenience foods that tend to be more expensive and contain unnecessary additives. Prepare meals from scratch using basic ingredients instead.

8. Consider fishing or foraging for food if skilled, as a cost-effective way to supplement grocery shopping.

9. Minimize food waste by using up leftovers and properly storing perishable items.

By following these thrifty grocery shopping tips, you can keep food costs down and make the sailboat living experience more budget-friendly.

DIY Maintenance and Repairs

When it comes to DIY maintenance and repairs on a sailboat, follow these steps to ensure everything is in working order:

1. Regularly inspect the hull for damage or wear. Look for cracks, chips, or delamination and repair as needed.

2. Check the rigging and rigging hardware for corrosion or damage. Replace any worn or broken components.

3. Clean and lubricate winches and other moving parts for smooth operation.

4. Inspect the sails for tears, fraying, or UV damage. Patch or replace damaged areas.

5. Check the electrical system for loose connections or faulty wiring. Test all lights and electrical devices.

6. Inspect the plumbing system for leaks or clogs. Replace worn hoses or fittings.

7. Regularly clean and maintain the engine , changing oil, filters, and spark plugs as recommended by the manufacturer.

8. Inspect and clean the bilge pump and bilge area to ensure proper function.

9. Check safety equipment , such as life jackets and fire extinguishers, for expiration dates and proper function.

10. Keep a well-stocked tool kit onboard for minor repairs or adjustments that may be needed.

Generating Income while Living on a Sailboat

Looking to generate income while living on a sailboat? We’ve got you covered! Discover a world of opportunities in this section. From remote work options to boat-related services and freelancing , we’ll explore ways to sustain your sailboat lifestyle. With the help of real-life experiences and practical tips, you’ll be well-equipped to finance your sailing adventures while enjoying the freedom of being on the open waters. So, let’s dive in and uncover the possibilities awaiting you!

Remote Work Opportunities

Remote work opportunities are a great way for individuals to earn income while living on a sailboat. Freelancing is a popular choice among professionals, including writers, graphic designers, and programmers, who have the ability to work independently. Virtual assistance is another option, involving tasks such as scheduling, email management, and social media management. Online tutoring provides the opportunity to teach subjects online. Digital marketing is a field that encompasses social media management, content writing, and search engine optimization. Consulting is yet another remote work option, allowing professionals to offer guidance from afar. When considering remote work opportunities, it is important to assess your skills, experience, and availability. By doing so, you can find the right remote work opportunity to sustain your lifestyle while enjoying the freedom of sailing.

Boat-Related Services

When living on a sailboat, various services can enhance your experience and ensure smooth sailing.

Boat-related services have been integral to the sailing community for centuries. Skilled boatbuilders and repairers ensured vessel seaworthiness and sailor safety. As sailing evolved from transportation to recreation, marinas and other services emerged to cater to sailors’ needs. Today, these services continue supporting the sailboat living community worldwide, offering convenience, expertise, and peace of mind.

Freelancing and Remote Business

Freelancing and remote business are two thriving opportunities for those living on a sailboat. The beauty of freelancing lies in the freedom it offers and the ability to take control of one’s earnings. Whether it’s writing, graphic design, web development, or marketing, success knows no bounds.

On the other hand, remote businesses open up possibilities such as boat maintenance and repairs, yacht chartering , and online coaching for sailing enthusiasts. Thanks to digital technology, connecting with clients and customers is now easier than ever, even while sailing. Working remotely allows for the exploration of new locations while still maintaining a steady income. Of course, a stable internet connection and the necessary communication equipment are vital.

By capitalizing on their skills and fully embracing the digital world, inhabitants of sailboats can truly flourish in both freelancing and remote business ventures.

Living Sustainably on a Sailboat

Living sustainably on a sailboat offers a unique and fulfilling lifestyle. In this section, we will explore ways to minimize our environmental impact while enjoying life at sea. Discover how to harness renewable energy sources, reduce waste through recycling, and adopt a sustainable approach to food by eating locally and practicing sustainable fishing . By embracing these practices, we can experience the beauty of sailboat living while treading lightly on our precious planet.

Utilizing Renewable Energy Sources

Utilizing renewable energy sources is crucial for sustainable living on a sailboat. Here are some ways to naturally incorporate these sources:

Solar panels: Installing solar panels is a great way to harness renewable energy on a sailboat. They use the sun’s power to generate electricity.

Wind turbines: Utilize wind turbines to convert the energy from the wind into electrical power, which can be stored and utilized as needed.

Hydro generators: Consider investing in hydro generators that use the boat’s movement through water to generate electricity, particularly when sailing at higher speeds or in strong currents.

Energy-efficient appliances: Opt for appliances that consume less electricity, maximizing the energy generated from renewable sources.

Energy management systems: Implement energy management systems that monitor and optimize your onboard energy usage. These systems provide insights to help you make informed decisions.

By utilizing renewable energy sources, you can reduce your dependence on non-renewable resources and minimize your environmental impact on a sailboat.

Fun fact: A typical solar panel can generate enough electricity to power a sailboat’s lights, electronics, and essential systems, enabling a more sustainable and self-sufficient lifestyle.

Reducing Waste and Practicing Recycling

Reducing waste and practicing recycling are fundamental for maintaining a sustainable lifestyle on a sailboat. To efficiently manage waste, it is important to follow these steps:

  • Separate recyclable materials , such as plastic, glass, and metal, and utilize onshore recycling facilities whenever possible.
  • Opt for reusable alternatives instead of single-use products. Remember to bring your own water bottle, utensils, and containers.
  • Compost organic waste , such as fruit and vegetable peels, to reduce food waste and produce nutrient-rich soil.
  • Minimize packaging by purchasing products with minimal packaging or using refillable containers , thus reducing plastic waste.
  • Engage in beach or marina clean-up initiatives to prevent pollution and safeguard the marine environment.

Let me tell you a true story about Sarah , who lived on a sailboat and was deeply committed to reducing waste and practicing recycling. She made a significant investment in a composting system for her boat to properly dispose of organic waste. Sarah adhered to a strict recycling routine, correctly sorting and disposing of recyclable materials at the nearest recycling center. She also took the initiative to educate fellow sailors about waste reduction and regularly organized clean-up activities to maintain the pristine environment. Through these practices, Sarah and her community cultivated a sustainable lifestyle and positively contributed to the protection of the environment.

Eating Locally and Sustainable Fishing

When living on a sailboat, eating locally and sustainable fishing are important. Here are some suggestions:

– Source local ingredients: Choose fresh produce, fish, and seafood from local markets or fishermen. This supports the community and ensures fresher and more sustainable food.

– Learn local regulations: Know the fishing rules in the area you’ll be sailing. Follow size limits, catch limits, and protect species to preserve the marine ecosystem.

– Practice catch and release: If you enjoy fishing, release the fish after catching. This lets you enjoy fishing without depleting the fish population.

– Use sustainable fishing gear: Opt for eco-friendly gear like biodegradable fishing lines and hooks to minimize the environmental impact.

– Try sustainable fishing methods: Explore alternative methods like spearfishing with minimal impact on the marine environment.

– Support local fishermen: If you don’t fish, buy catch from local fishermen. This sustains their livelihoods and promotes sustainable fishing.

– Reduce food waste: On a sailboat, minimize food waste. Plan meals, use leftovers creatively, and compost organic waste.

By following these practices, you can enjoy fresh and sustainable meals on a sailboat while supporting local communities and preserving marine ecosystems.

Tips for a Comfortable and Enjoyable Sailboat Living

Living on a sailboat can be an exciting and liberating experience, but it also presents unique challenges. In this section, we’ll dive into some valuable tips that will make your sailboat living both comfortable and enjoyable. From maintaining good hygiene and ensuring safety on board to finding a sense of community and socializing with fellow sailors, these tips will help you make the most out of your sailboat life . So, grab your compass and let’s navigate the waters of sailboat living together!

Maintaining Good Hygiene

Maintaining good hygiene is crucial on a sailboat for the sake of a healthy and comfortable living environment. It is important to regularly clean and sanitize the living quarters, particularly the bathroom and kitchen areas, to prevent the growth of bacteria and uphold cleanliness.

Water conservation is also key to maintaining good hygiene. It is recommended to take quick showers using minimal water and use biodegradable soaps to minimize the environmental impact.

Proper waste disposal is another essential aspect. It is necessary to dispose of waste properly to prevent odors and contamination. One should make use of designated waste systems like marine toilets or composting toilets and dispose of trash at designated facilities on land.

Hand hygiene plays a significant role as well. It is imperative to practice good hand hygiene by regularly washing hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizers. This practice helps in preventing the spread of germs and maintaining personal cleanliness.

Laundry management is also vital due to the limited space and resources on a sailboat. It is advisable to use water-efficient methods like hand-washing or find access to laundry facilities onshore. It is important to ensure that clothes are thoroughly dried to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.

Moreover , personal grooming routines, such as brushing teeth, washing the face, and nail care, should be maintained to promote good health and well-being.

By adhering to these hygiene practices, individuals living on a sailboat can ensure a clean and healthy environment while enjoying the freedom of life on the water.

Staying Safe on a Sailboat

Staying Safe on a Sailboat is important for a smooth and enjoyable sailing experience. Here are some tips to consider:

1. Wear a life jacket: Always wear a properly fitting life jacket, especially when underway or in rough conditions.

2. Know your boat and its safety features: Familiarize yourself with safety equipment and features, including the location and proper use of fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and emergency signaling devices.

3. Be mindful of weather conditions: Stay updated on weather forecasts and avoid sailing in severe weather conditions, such as strong winds or storms.

4. Practice proper navigation and collision avoidance: Follow navigational rules and maintain a lookout for other vessels or potential hazards.

5. Maintain communication equipment: Ensure your boat is equipped with functional communication devices, like a VHF radio or mobile phone, for emergencies.

6. Learn basic sailing techniques: Understand basic sailing techniques to handle unexpected situations effectively. Take sailing courses or seek guidance from experienced sailors.

7. Plan for emergencies: Have a well-stocked first aid kit, emergency flares, and a float plan. Inform someone ashore about your plans.

By following these safety guidelines, you can have a safe and enjoyable sailing experience. Prioritizing safety is key to a positive and memorable time on your sailboat.

Finding Community and Socializing

Living on a sailboat can be an adventurous and fulfilling way of life. It is crucial to find a sense of community and engage in social activities . If you are living on a sailboat and want to connect with others, here are some helpful suggestions:

1. Join sailing communities: To meet fellow sailors and engage in group activities or events, consider joining local sailing clubs , marinas , or online forums . These communities often arrange regattas , excursions, and social gatherings, providing ample opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals.

2. Attend sailing events: Stay updated about sailing events, boat shows, or workshops happening in your area. These gatherings offer a chance to network, learn from experienced sailors, and bond with others who share your passion for sailing.

3. Engage in social media groups: Take part in online communities and groups dedicated to sailing, boating, or the liveaboard lifestyle . These platforms provide a space for asking questions, sharing experiences, and organizing meetups with fellow sailors.

4. Volunteer or join sailing organizations: Consider volunteering with sailing organizations or non-profits. This not only allows you to contribute to the community but also provides an opportunity to meet and connect with other sailors. You can get involved in activities such as sailing programs for underprivileged youth or environmental conservation projects.

5. Engage with locals: When you anchor in new locations, make an effort to interact with the local community. Explore local establishments, attend cultural events, and participate in community activities. This will help you form connections beyond the sailing community.

Remember, finding community and socializing on a sailboat requires active participation and a willingness to engage with others. Embrace opportunities both on and off the water to make sailing a social and fulfilling way of life.

Some Facts About How To Live On A Sailboat Cheap:

  • ✅ Living on a boat for free is theoretically possible, but it requires becoming self-sufficient and finding free resources. (Source: Our Team)
  • ✅ To achieve a cost of living of $0 on a sailboat, it is important to spend upfront on a suitable liveaboard boat, a solar or wind turbine system for free energy, and a watermaker for free water. (Source: Our Team)
  • ✅ Other solutions for living on a sailboat cheap include DIY maintenance, using free moorings and international waters for docking, and moving to states that don’t charge property tax for avoiding taxes. (Source: Our Team)
  • ✅ The upfront costs for living on a sailboat for free include the boat itself, the solar system, a chartplotter, fishing equipment, a vegetable garden, a watermaker, and a dinghy. (Source: Our Team)
  • ✅ The monthly cost of living for free on a sailboat ranges from $200 to $500, which includes maintenance, fuel, canned food, and a MiFi device. (Source: Our Team)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. how can i live on a sailboat cheaply.

To live on a sailboat cheaply, you need to carefully manage your budget and expenses. Start by auditing your bank statements to understand your income, savings, and recurring expenses. Regularly track your finances and find ways to save money. Consider investing in a sailboat that fits your budget and monthly loan payments. Reduce utility expenses by utilizing shore power with a marine extension cord, conserving water and power, and using propane for cooking and heating. Find marinas with reasonable docking fees and look for free mooring options.

2. What upfront costs should I consider when living on a sailboat?

To live on a sailboat, you’ll have upfront costs such as purchasing a suitable liveaboard boat, installing a solar or wind turbine system for free energy, and obtaining a watermaker for free water. You’ll need to budget for a chartplotter, fishing equipment, a vegetable garden, a dinghy, and other necessary equipment. The estimated total initial cost is $29,500, but this can vary depending on your specific needs and preferences.

3. How can I manage my income while living on a sailboat?

Managing your income while living on a sailboat involves creating a budget that considers all your financial needs and obligations. Dedicate a portion of your monthly income to cover boat payments, maintenance costs, fuel expenses, and utility bills. It’s also important to have an emergency fund of at least $10,000 to cover unexpected expenses that may arise while living aboard. Consider remote work or freelancing opportunities to generate income while enjoying the sailing lifestyle.

4. What are the considerations for maintaining utilities on a liveaboard sailboat?

Living on a sailboat requires managing your utilities effectively. Sailboats store water and sewage in tanks, which may need to be pumped out at separate locations. Some marinas offer water and sewage hookups, while others may require you to access these services independently. It’s important to practice water and power conservation to ensure availability on your sailboat. Hooking up to shore power using a marine extension cord can provide electricity, but it’s essential to budget for docking fees that cover utility expenses.

5. How can I minimize maintenance costs while living on a sailboat?

To minimize maintenance costs while living on a sailboat, adhere to regular maintenance and inspection schedules. This includes checking and maintaining rigging, sails, furling systems, winches, and other sailing hardware. Allocate funds for safety equipment, engine maintenance, hull scraping and painting, deck maintenance, wiring, hauling out, and necessary chemical supplies. Having a few thousand dollars set aside for unexpected repairs is also recommended.

6. How can I avoid taxes and insurance costs while living on a sailboat?

If you want to avoid taxes and insurance costs while living on a sailboat, consider moving to states or countries that don’t charge property taxes or require insurance for boats. Adopting a cruising lifestyle that involves spending time in international waters or remote areas away from touristy regions can significantly reduce your tax and insurance obligations. It’s important to research and comply with the legal requirements of the specific jurisdiction where you plan to reside.

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Home » Budget Travel » Boat Life 101: How to Live on a Boat and Travel the World! (2024)

Boat Life 101: How to Live on a Boat and Travel the World! (2024)

Waves lap at the hull of the boat. Your feet are in the glassy water, a glass of rum in your hand, and a glorious sunset in front of you. Of course, the weather is perrrfect .

Just another day in the life of living on a boat.

Surely that’s not all what living on a boat is like though, right? What about the sea monsters ? What about getting shipwrecked and floating for days on end at sea awaiting rescue?

And as if a broke bum can really live on a sailboat. Come on!

Rest assured, greenhorn – I’ve got you.

I went from a baby sailor who almost blew up the boat, to hand steering my way across the Pacific Ocean using the Southern Cross as my bearing. And I did it all with very little cash to my name.

Now I’m here to pass on to you what it’s really like to live on a boat AND how to do it . It’s the how-to-poop, how-to-cook, how-to-sail – and the best places in the world to do it all in. PLUS how exactly you can put a budget on a dream.

Avast! I give you, how to live on a boat and travel the world.

A man stands on his sailboat and raises the mainsail at sunset.

Living on a Boat: What’s it Really Like?

How to live on a boat full time, best places in the world to live on a boat (and when to go) , the cost of living on a sailboat (and how to minimise it) , can you live on a sailboat for free, last tips for living the boat life.

“Indigo, where’s the F**CKING coffee?” 

Yeah, you want to buy a boat. And then you’re going to sail off into the sunset – travelling the world without spending a dime – with twelve babes on one arm and the world’s greatest rum in the other. Oh, it’s going to be so lovely, isn’t it?

Welllllll , I’m not here to burst your bubble, but I am here to give you a wee reality check. 

Living on a boat is not for suckers; it’s not for the impatient; it’s not for the stupid. I realise that many people who suck and are stupid, can and do sail. They give the rest of us a headache – don’t be them. 

If you forget the coffee, the rest of the boat may very well feed you to the sharks. The only shop for the next 200 nautical miles is now a distant speck on the goddamn horizon, after all. 

However, provided there is ample coffee, rum, and good conversation, there is nothing better than living on a boat. No, that is not a cliche.

A girl stands at the helm of a sailboat looking at the horizon.

Life on a sailboat is life at its most .

  • The duality of boredom and near-death experiences.
  • Harnessing the wind and moving soundlessly across the great blue spectacular.
  • Fresh sashimi.
  • Deep introspection.
  • The oscillating moods of the crew that spread like the flu.
  • Long stretches of time with no goddamn Instagram.

A boat becomes a very miniature village, and in this, you can touch on a very primal way of living; one that has been passed down to us from many millions of years of evolution. 

The simplicity is not always poetic. But it will make you appreciate every damn cup of coffee – and isn’t that what life is all about? 

living on a sailboat cost

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So here it is folks! The basic and hyperbole-filled how-to of living on a boat.

It’s just three simple things. (Sort of.) And then, the ocean is your oyster.

Hoist those sails and may the wind be ever in your favour.

Boat Life 101: Pooping 

Four underwater toilets looking gross as a reminder to sailors that how you poop on a boat is important.

Don’t laugh! Pooping on a boat is your first lesson in how different living on a sailboat is to land life.

You have to think about the consequences of your every action: sustainable travel MATTERS . If it’s a small sailboat, it will likely have a manual pump instead of a flush. You do your business, and then pump, pump, pump. 

And that’s not where it ends. You need to think about where exactly your poop is going. 

It becomes very clear that all drains lead to the ocean. 

Usually, your poops will be going into the boat’s holding tank, but they only hold so much. You need to know the regulations in the national waters of wherever the boat is because you can’t empty the holding tank until you’re far enough away from shore, certain mooring fields, and protected areas… for obvious reasons.  

Now, I would argue you haven’t lived until you’ve dealt with a malfunctioning head (marine toilet). Nothing makes you appreciate modern sewerage systems like the sweet smell of shit. 

Boat Life 101: Cooking + Provisioning 

A girl is smiling on a sailboat while holding up bags of fruit.

The consequences of your actions continue here. Even if you are sailing in proximity to shops or markets, the basic fact remains that the shops are on land and your boat is on the water.

That means there is no nipping to the servo for some extra milk that you forgot. You have what you have on the boat, and you make do. 

So yeah, not bringing enough coffee for the passage? A dumb mistake you only make once. 

Living on a sailboat has made me an organised (one might say obsessive, but one would be wrong) motherfucker. I am a HARDCORE list-writer, but you need lists when you live on a sailboat.

living on a sailboat cost

WRITE LISTS. And keep them going all the time.

  • The food and supplies list.
  • The fix-it list for maintenance.
  • The visa requirements and beaurcracy list.
  • The all-important books to read list .

If you go on an overnight sail and you know there’s food at the next anchorage, then you can get away with forgetting the coffee just this once. If you’re crossing the biggest ocean on Earth, that’s not gonna fly. You need to write a bloody list.  

Also, food sometimes needs to be refrigerated. Refrigerators come with limited space and the frustrating tendency to gain sentience halfway through a passage. With sentience comes a severe attitude and willingness to ruin your food.

All I’m saying is, you gotta plan your meals, know how you’re going to store them, and write lists.

Oh, and it sounds obvious, but while sailing, the boat moves.

Yes, the stove on a boat is on a gimbal which means it swings with the motion of the boat and compensates for the movement. But when King Neptune feels the sailors on board have grown too comfortable, the soup says hello to the floor.

Boat Life 101: How do I sail this thing? 

four men sailng a dhow (type of sailboat)

If you can take a shit and cook a meal while on a sailboat, you’re 90% done. 

Collectively, we humans have been chucking some cloth on a bit of wood to capture the wind since the original discovery of Australia and the Solomon Islands (50 000 – 25 000 years ago).

Over the millennia, the process has become more refined. Now we can sail upwind and tack and all this fancy stuff. But ultimately, with a little patience and a lot of practice, anyone can learn to sail. 

Four small figurines are on an electronic chartplotter as they learn to sail a sailboat.

There is a multitude of electronic tools – chart plotters, AIS, GPS, Iridium GO – that help you keep a track of where the hell you are and give you detailed charts about where you want to go.

You can even get the weather sent in a tiny little electronic file via a device like the Iridium GO, even when you’re sailing across the Pacific Ocean . Very handy for avoiding boat-sinking storms!

Putting some sail on a mast and heading off has never sounded so sweet! But if you learn a thing or two about the trade winds , you can make your journey even sweeter.

The trades are these delicious winds that blow reliably from east to west, meaning you can access a reliable source of energy to propel you forward (provided you want to head west).

Trade wind sailing is famous for being fucking chill, with few gnarly storms and not too many becalmed days of boredom. The merchants of the tall ship days and the modern boat bum circumnavigating the globe both love the trade winds. Yes, for the easy sailing, and also for the good rum found at many of the ports along the way. 

But when all else fails – say if your mast is struck by lightning and all your electronics are fried – there are still ways to orientate yourself on the big blue. These are methods that have evolved over our collective sailing history:

  • Celestial (star) navigation : Using the constellations and a sextant, plus some maths, to figure out the boats latitude and longitude.
  • Cloud navigation : Recognising the flat bottomed clouds associated with land to keep you on track back to terra firma.
  • Reading the swell : This is just fascinating. This means understanding the persistent swell that move across world oceans and their relation to the star quadrants to estimate where your boat is and where it is going.

Test the Waters BEFORE You Sail – The Liveaboard Experience!

Another way you can get a taste of the boat life before you commit to a lifelong project is to charter a boat! Sailo does just that: Sailo lets you rent the boat life.

Banner image showing Sailo - an online platform to rent the experience of living on a boat

You get a boat, a sampler of the experience of living on a sailboat, and people on deck that actually know what the bloody hell they’re doing! With over 30,000(!) boats to charter from and a fabulous selection of the BEST places to live on a boat around, you’re guaranteed to find something that… floats your boat.

Sure, it’s not the no-frills boatbum style, but ultimately, you can choose to do it bareboat – with no captain and you bring all your own provisions. Or you can choose to have the boat crewed so you can sit back, relax and, learn a thing or two about boat life. (And drink champagne.)

Living on a boat comes with a host of challenges (and juicy rewards) that are made that much easier by picking a good place to do it in.

Access to quality boatyards, provisioning, internet connection – these are all big plusses for those living on a sailboat!

But also, all the stuff that made you want to partake in this mad boat lifestyle in the first place rate highly too. A plethora of remote beaches, magic sunsets, and a friendly cruising community of cool travel buddies (soon to become treasured friends) can make or break a dream destination.

I’ve also considered how easy it is to top up the cruising kitty with funds by rating how easy it is to find work in each place.

Australia + New Zealand 

a kangroo is on an australian beach proving that it is the best place in the world to live on a sailboat.

  • When to go: November – May (NZ & southern Australia) April – September (northern Australia)
  • Best suited liquor: EMU BITTER MAAAATE Whatever the Australians aren’t drinking.

I don’t care that the citizens of both these fine nations will be after me with pitchforks for lumping them in the same pile. Honestly, mate, bro, whatever, come at me. They’re both equally dope places to liveaboard your sailboat.

Yup, gonna say it right now, both these places can be expensive for the boat bum. But they also provide good-paying work opportunities if you can play the visa game right. So they are great places to slow down, pick up a travel job , and stack some cash for future ocean adventures.

You can also take a break from the boat life, and go on an epic backpacking adventure around New Zealand . You won’t know how much you miss the ocean until you take a break from her, trust me.

Also, the sheer diversity that I’ve so callously dumped in one heading is incredible.

Honestly, you can sail down to Stewart Island in the subantarctic waters and then back up to the Eden on Earth in the equatorial Torres Strait .

You could spend a whole, wonderful lifetime sailing between these two continents and still die regretting not having seen everything.

The long and the short of it:

  • You can make bank here $$$!
  • You can get your boat fixed properly here. Island nations like Australia and New Zealand have a wealth of boat building and fixing experience.
  • There are well stocked supermarkets here, so you can stock up on bulk items that prove tricky to find in more remote locations.
  • People are cool, remote beaches are cooler. And there is a metric shitton of incredible beaches here.
  • There’s also an opportunity for non-boat adventures (like backpacking around Australia ) that will make you appreciate the ocean nomad life even more.
  • Diversity! Of landscape and cultures.
  • Dude, the first nations of Australia managed to cross over from Papua New Guinea (probably) 60 000 years ago. SIXTY THOUSAND (louder for those in the back). The knowledge on this ancient continent will humble you if you pause to listen.
  • And the seafarers that made it to Aotearoa? The Maori are some of the most badass, friendly, wise, creative, HILARIOUS people you will ever have the privilege of meeting.
  • $7 bottles of wine. Sorry. But like, yes please.
  • There’s epic diving in New Zealand and all over Australia with endless (and scrumptious!) spearfishing opportunities.
  • Living on your boat here is easy . Not without its struggles of course, but it’s always easier to struggle close to wifi connection.

The Caribbean

A photograph of a turtle taken by a diver living on a boat in the Caribbean.

  • When to go: The conventional advice says December – May, but you can sail here year-round if you know how to dodge hurricanes.
  • Best suited liquor: Rum. Obviously rum. Maybe with a squeeze of lemon and a splash of cola.

If you can dodge the hangouts of the rich and the famous (or work out how to make money off them) sailing the Caribbean and living on a sailboat is very rewarding.

Salsa lessons in the streets of Puerto Rico , rum-soaked nights in the Virgin Islands , goat hunting, spearfishing , azure waters, and white sand beaches all the way down to Bonaire .

Getting into the charter boat game provides a great way to make dat money. During the high season, this is one of the most popular places in the world to charter a boat.

If you are happy to do your own boat repairs, a lot of fishing, and get clever with your travel budget , the cost of living in the Caribbean is not super expensive either. You just gotta know where to go for what.

Cheap coffee and rum can be brought in bulk in the Dominican Republic . There’s a Costco not far away in Puerto Rico , so you can get some bulk toilet paper. Then it’s onwards to a deserted island, a reef, and some endless fun in the sun.

  • Cheap boat repairs are available in places like Rio Dulce, Guatemala. So, for those big projects you can save quite a bit of money by getting them done here.
  • The rum. I mean, it has truly been perfected here.
  • There are oodles of work opportunities in the charter business or in the superyacht world.
  • Cheap flights back to the USA means you can feasibly travel between the USA and El Caribe guaranteeing you an endless summer.
  • The glorious azure waters and their 27-degree celsius temperatures. Helllloo, nude night diving.
  • Warm, deliciously WARM, diving.
  • More people at the anchorages = a very social and welcoming community of cruisers. There is a great liveaboard culture that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.
  • Easy trade wind sailing.
  • Did I mention the rum?

The South Pacific

A glowing sunset at an atoll in French Polynesia.

  • When to go: May – October (You can arrive in the Marquesas in April with no problems.)
  • Best suited liquor: A little vodka, a lotta soda, a squeeze of lime.

I won’t even try to hide my bias. I LOVE the Pacific.

Is it the best place to live on a sailboat for most people? Probably not. Because the distances between your boat and a grocery store are usually mind-boggling. It can be expensive. It can be lonely.

There’s just no way quite like travelling to places like French Polynesia the way you can on a boat. Out in the middle of the ocean life is not always easy, even if it is full of palm trees. 

But fuck it, I love the Pacific, so we’re including it. 

No, honestly, if you can mitigate the challenge of distance, you are rewarded with the best planet Earth has to offer. Incredible diving, a slow pace of life, some world-class hiking trails (and world-class peaks), lazy sunshiney afternoons. Perfect postcard sunsets. Mmmmm.

A full one-third of the globe is consumed by the Pacific Ocean, and scattered throughout this utter vastness are innumerable tiny little islands. Luckily for the bum of the seas, the trade winds can carry you from the Americas to these little flecks with few problems.

In fact, all the technical sailing here is relatively easy. As long as you don’t get becalmed at the equator thanks to the weirdness of the ITCZ band, it is easy sailing.

But you’re going to need a water maker and have a solid solar panel set up for power. Because between Panama and the Marquesas , there are approximately 3800 nautical miles – more if you go stop in at the Galapagos.

That’s a long way between places to buy coffee. And there’s not much in the way of supermarkets until you get to Tahiti , another 800 nautical miles away.

If you leave IndigoRadio on for long enough, inevitably Kiribati will come up. You can hide from hurricanes here. The South Pacific is defined by island life at an island tempo:

  • You can get delicious fish on the end of your gidji real fast here.
  • People-less anchorages.
  • Dreamy atolls.
  • And not a damn supermarket in sight.

Ok, not everyone’s idea of easy sailing, but certainly my idea of the best that living on a boat has to offer.

There is a multitude of lifetimes that could be spent escaping the rat race and kicking back in the Pacific. There is an awesome amount of diversity of landscapes and cultures here too, not to mention a proud seafaring tradition that we aspiring boat bums should shut up and learn from. 

A Tip From One Pirate to Another

Okiedokie, you wild little circumnavigator-to-be! There are multiple ways to criss cross the globe. Resources like noonsite.com and Jimmy Cornell’s cruising guides will be invaluable to you in the planning  and execution stages of your journey.

A map with a line of a good route to follow for someone travelling the world by boat

But at a glance : I would suggest starting in Europe and the mediterranean and picking up the trade winds west across the Atlantic in this order:

  • Through the Caribbean and through the Panama Canal.
  • Onwards across the South Pacific, kissing New Zealand and Australia before either…
  • Circling through South East Asia and back across the Northern Pacific…
  • OR continuing up past Sri Lanka then…
  • Around the Cape of Good Hope before…
  • Going back across the Atlantic and the northern coast of the USA and back home!

Use the trade winds to your advantage! Go west until you can go west no longer.

packable travel medical kit

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

No sugar coating here. Buying and maintaining a sailboat, no matter how much it resembles a tin can, adds up real fast. 

But when the eternal sunshine and the lessons of the great blue spectacular call you – when King Neptune drafts you into his eternal service – it’s time to find a will and a way. 

Here are a few tips to help you plan a trip that I’ve picked up from my short time making various vessels my temporary abodes: 

  • Don’t buy a project boat unless you want a project.  It will cost you more to fix everything on a broken boat than it will to buy a boat that’s good to go.
  • But, when you do need to repair, DIY. Endless learning, yay! Or, plan your sailing route to include time in places like the Rio Dulce where repairs are cheaper.
  • Anchor more often than you stay in marinas.  Marinas are devilishly expensive; anchoring is deliciously free.
  • Volunteer on someone else’s boat before you get your own. 😉 If done right, this is win-win. You can take share in the labour of running a boat (for example by standing night watch) while learning the finer points of sailing from a master.
  • Get seasonal work. There are so many options when it comes to this, from ‘backpacker’ staples like agriculture and hospitality to working on superyachts or as dive instructors.
  • Or have residual or passive income if you’re real cool. If you’re on that elusive property ladder or earning money online , why don’t you have a boat? Just head off now and live off your automatic wealth. Be a cool kid.

A man repairs something on his liveaboard sailboat.

Of course, when a backpacker asks about the cost of living on a sailboat, they really want to know if you can live on a sailboat for free. When a family looking to take a sabbatical asks about the cost of living, they just want to know hard numbers and a budget breakdown.

At the end of the day, you can hoist a heavily patched sail on a jerry-rigged mast and work on the boat yourself, and eat only what you catch or grow. At the other end, you can set sail on a superyacht replete with full-time staff and jetskis.

We anchor in the same sand and watch the same sunset though, so you choose what you need to spend.

I would suggest being honest about your lifestyle. Consider being a little obsessive organised about your annual costs. Because costs are going to vary greatly from boat to boat.

How Much Does it Cost to Live on a Boat? (Pricing Breakdown!)

Obviously, the variables that go into the cost of running a liveaboard boat are vastly dependent on your style of living and where in the world you are sailing.

Generally speaking, it is cheaper to spend more time at anchor and in countries with a lower cost of living. However, insurance will still be 1% – 2% of the cost of your boat and port fees are port fees. Still gotta pay ’em, whether you’re a broke bum or a gazillionaire.

Sailing and Diving Go Together Like… Sailing and Diving!

A way to combine two of the best things on Earth is to indulge in a liveaboard experience .

This is exactly what it sounds like – you live aboard a boat, usually in some fantastic and tropical destination. You can indulge in some wonderous diving, and pick the brains of the crew about their tips on living aboard a vessel!

living on a sailboat cost

The focus of the liveaboards is the epic diving experiences in destinations that just aren’t as accessible when travelling in other ways. Also, it’s a great inspiration for you to hustle your way onto your own boat so that diving amongst reef sharks becomes as normal as your morning coffee.

Now the controversial stuff.

I’ve had someone say, a little tongue in cheek: damn yachties get the wind for free and now they want everything else for free!

A sailboat mid-cruise on a sunset lake.

While I think being resourceful and a bargain hunter is the best way to live your life, boat or no boat, it’s just as important to have a bitta respect. So when you hit the seas or the road, I don’t see the point in haggling hard over what amounts to 50 cents.

When it comes to boat stuff, in particular, break it down into your shelter, food, and fuel, and don’t aim to get everything for free .

Aim to sustain your lifestyle for as long as possible in a way that doesn’t compromise it for everyone else. In other words, be ethical about your damn budget travel. The most rewarding consequence of trying to keep costs down is creating a more or less self-sustaining yacht. Better for you and your personal growth; better for this pale blue dot we call home.

Sailboat Cost Cutter #1: Shelter 

A girl is in the engine of the sailboat she lived on while covered in oil.

Maintaining your shelter (i.e. your boat) is not going to be a ‘free’ exercise. You will pay with money, or your own labour and time, to maintain it. 

It will be an exercise in learning all kinds of systems – both mechanical and electrical – and time management. Do you want to pay for that task with money or your labour? Whatever you land on for each maintenance task that inevitably comes up, you will learn that to sustain this boat bum lifestyle you just gotta take care of your wee home and she will take care of you. 

It is always free to sleep on your boat while underway. Well, it doesn’t cost any money anyway. You are investing a lot of time and energy into the passage, but you’re not paying to sleep on your boat!

Once you arrive, you can choose to stay in a marina, on a mooring, or at anchor. Anchoring will always be the cheapest (usually free) and so you don’t have to spend a lot to live in paradise. But don’t be a dick.  

  • Have the right visa.
  • Be respectful of others in the anchorage.
  • Don’t dump shit (literal or otherwise) overboard unless you are sure you’re allowed to.
  • Be friendly and offer your neighbours a hand if they need one.

This lifestyle can bring out the best in us provided we’re responsible travellers , so lean into that. 

Sailboat Cost Cutter #2: Fuel

living on a sailboat cost

As my friend said, damn yachties get the wind for free! Much of the energy needed to go from A to B is yours for the taking, provided you can harness it efficiently with your sails. But as with DIY vs paying for repairs, sometimes you pay just as dearly with your time as you would have with your money. 

If you are becalmed, the engine may be just the thing to help you out. When coming into a marina, you’re not going to want to be under sail. Likewise, in a storm, it is time to put the sail away and turn on the engine for stability. So having a little diesel onboard is necessary.  

Compared to land life, people living on a boat can minimise their carbon footprint and live very simply. But it’s difficult to ask the Earth for none of its resources. Just be mindful about the way you live, be eco-friendly , and try your best to not waste resources. 

You can recharge your boat batteries for electronics with the sun though – provided you can harness it with solar panels. And a lot of liveaboards will have a wind turbine for extra power on the less sunny days. This stops you from needing to use the engine so much. Yay for money, yay for the environment. 

It’s never going to be completely free. You either pay with time or money. But you can certainly save a lot of money on fuel while living on a boat. This is a rewarding way to sustain your lifestyle and be kinder to the planet. 

Sailboat Cost Cutter #3: Food

A tuna caught while sailing with a lure in its mouth and a spike in its brain so that it died quickly.

I apply the same principles to food as I do to food and shelter: you pay with money or you pay with time and labour. Also, don’t be a dick, and be good to the environment. What comes around goes around. 

This means, when it’s available, I will spearfish and I will hunt. This is me paying for my food with my time and labour rather than money. But I would also argue that it’s fulfilling my other principles of:

  • Not being a dick and…
  • Being good to the planet. 

Hear me out: I think vegans and hunters alike would agree that factory farming and the industrial scale of meat production are fucked up. It’s a waste of our water, arable land, and produces poorer quality meat. Furthermore, the animals suffer tremendously. 

But if I’m kicking it in Kiribati, there is no way I’m going to be a vegetarian and still believe I’m doing a solid for the planet. The carbon footprint required to get my strictly vegetarian tofu to the remote islands is greater than the carbon footprint of me harvesting a fish every few days. 

A man and a woman on their liveaboard sailboat. A goat they killed is in front of them.

That fish has swum about its whole life having a good time doing cool fish stuff. And then, like all of us will, it died. I have immense gratitude toward this being for providing me with sustenance. I feel like I am part of a cycle of life that predates my puny existence. 

In the same vein, to bring tofu to the Caribbean has required a process that is on the whole less ethical than going for a shoot and getting a feral goat for dinner.

The land cleared to grow the soybeans + the production of soybeans into tofu + the carbon cost of flying the tofu product into the island = YIKES.

The feral goats that destabilize delicate island ecosystems? They had a good goat-y life and then they became a good goat-y curry that fed 12 people. 

Ok, I’m done. Eat meat or don’t; ethical animal tourism and all that jazz, however, morality is complicated. There are ways to reduce the money you spend on food and your carbon footprint without being a dick.

I’d also say that in the process of harvesting your own food, you gain a greater appreciation for life on this planet. And get a sense of urgency around stepping up to protect it.  Give it a try; you might be surprised.

Epic Tips for Broke Boatpackers

  • Know your knots. Apart from knots being fascinating in their own right (knots were probably invented alongside stone tools?! ), they are the foundation of boat life. Knowing a couple of basics , like a bowline, will give you a good leg up when joining a boat. 
  • Be able to cook at least two decent meals, also be clean. You aren’t only working, but living on this boat with someone. Take care of your space and bring some good food to the table and you will go a long way as a crew member. 
  • Go to docks and ask around. This is a good way to meet people – even if you just end up crew for a day sail. Be friendly, make yourself known, and find you’ll find yourself on a boat in no time. 
  • Facebook can be your friend. When walking the docks fails, there is a multitude of Facebook and other social media groups dedicated to connecting wannabe crew with boats!
  • Know how to write about yourself on your Facebook adverts. But you’ve got to know how to sell yourself! If you can cook a bomb-ass puttanesca and can tie a reef knot – mention it! Don’t sell yourself short! That being said, don’t exaggerate and tell fibs about the sailing experience you (don’t) have. The truth will come out painfully during the first bit of real sailing you do, so be honest. There’s usually captains willing to teach the basics for a bit of company and a good meal. 
  • Knowing how to fillet a fish is handy. Sailors know how to sail. They don’t necessarily know how to fish. So if you can bring this skill to the table, you’re going to be a beloved crew member in no time!

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Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Sweet, glorious tips from a pro-pirate to a soon-to-be, the seas are calling, so go sail them!

Stay Safe, Boat Bums!

One thing that many intrepid little sailors are not good at? Estimating danger and the likelihood of death.

Maybe this is a good thing because you do have to be the right sort of mad to get into a sailboat and cross an ocean.

Maybe, just maybe, you should consider purchasing travel insurance before shit hits the fan though. But enough from me, hear it from a fellow adventurer.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

living on a sailboat cost

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

FAQs About Life on a Boat

Here’s what I know you want to know about living on a boat!

What is the cheapest place in the world to live on a boat?

This will depend on your spending habits, of course. If you give yourself a budget of $3000 per month, you will spend $3000 per month. That being said, travelling around Southeast Asia and South America is an exquisite choice. They have superb cruising and a low cost of living. The Philippines stands out as a paradise to explore while on a budget.

Can you live on a boat in a marina?

You absolutely can! Now, call me biased, but the point of living on a boat is to go adventuring so I’d keep marina stays  strategic . Only stay as long as it takes to get repaired, or get provisions, and then take off into the sunset!

Can I sail around the world?

It doesn’t take much to put the sails out and follow a bearing. It also doesn’t take much to lose your mast in a surprise squall. Of course, you can sail a boat around the world, but you need to be organised. Provisions, finances, weather. The trip of a lifetime is not for the faint-hearted. Not that that should stop the intrepid adventurer!

SOMETHING REALLY IMPORTANT NOT TO FORGET

Follow instructions and ACTUALLY LISTEN. Put that ego aside, mate. The Captain ALWAYS has the final say, and if they say duck, you DUCK. The boat life can be real unforgiving. Oh, and learn how to handle your rum! It’s a pirate’s life and, well, nobody wants to be at sea with  that guy…

Do sea monsters really exist?

Oh yes. Without a doubt. You just won’t meet the monster until you’ve been at sea for more than 25 days straight. The crew are tired of each other. The boat keeps breaking. There’s a storm on the horizon. It’s night watch again and the clouds are hiding the stars. You wonder if your mother is worried for you and when you might be able to call her again. Briefly, you lean over the side of the boat and wonder what it would be like to just walk off. Would you sink or swim? The sea monsters don’t live in the sea.

Fair Winds, Sailor!

Living on a boat will challenge you.

There is no other lifestyle that forces you to be attuned to weather patterns, engine maintenance, personal dynamics, ethical dilemmas at every mealtime; to consider watermakers and wind turbines; to completely surrender while also stepping up and getting shit done. 

The nitty-gritty of how to live on a sailboat will not be fully revealed to you until you step onto one and do it. But, if you can poop and provision you’re halfway there! 

You gotta lick your finger and hold it up to the wind. Ah yes, the trades blow west. Rum and a seriously sexy sunset await.

A man sitting on his boat in Myanmar with a beautiful sunset.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Indigo Blue

Indigo Blue

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I truly enjoyed this read. I am under a government contract for the next while, but have a plan to retire and become a full timer somewhere warmer than Canada. I have been making my own notes and your writing gave me plenty more tips. Please feel free to email and keep me in the loop. Thanks so much and happy sailing!

Amazing read, thank you so much! I’m planning to get on with my own boat living dream and was curious if you (and fellow readers ) could share your thoughts on some of the big issues of boat living you have experienced? Much obliged 🙂 Keep up the good work!

First of all, welcome to the boat life! Biggest issues: Realistically the biggest issue is usually finances. The ocean is constantly wearing away at your boat and trying to sink it. Buying and maintaining a boat is expensive. That’s why so many boat lifers end up in the charter or delivery business – either as crew or as owner/operators – because it pays well.

Once you have your cruising kitty sorted, the next biggest issue is crew dynamics. Sailing alone is demanding, lonely, enthralling, and incredible all at once. Having crew on board and stepping up as captain is a trip in itself. Managing a team is always challenging – let alone when your team lives on a tiny sailboat and is constantly fighting the elements and can never take a break from each other.

The actual sailing and reading of the weather – that stuff becomes easy! This is why you should make yourself stop every so often and remind yourself how wild and wonderful it is that you’re getting around using the freaking wind! Also, the stars, man. If there’s one reason I’d cross the Pacific again for, it’s the stars.

Good luck and fair winds!

That is a f*cking great 101 boat guide! ahah Thank you Indigo for it and welcome to the writer’s team 🙂

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  • Articles and Guides

Living on a Sailboat: Is it Right for You?

11th mar 2023 by samantha wilson.

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Living on a sailboat full time is a major lifestyle change, but one which can bring untold happiness and adventure. Imagine waking each day to the sounds of the water gently lapping against the hull, of stepping onto the deck and breathing in the fresh sea (or lake) air, and of exploring whenever and wherever your heart takes you. It’s a back-to-basics lifestyle, where the trappings of modern life can get left behind as you embark on a way of living that is simple yet hugely rewarding.

Yet living on a sailboat isn’t for everyone, and it won’t always be smooth sailing (in all senses of the phrase!). If you’ve done your research and are prepared for the ups, downs, trials and challenges that your new lifestyle will undoubtedly bring, then that’s your first major hurdle overcome. Here we take a closer look at the nuts, bolts, pros and cons of living on a sailboat . 

port golden hour full of sailing boats

Advantages of Living on a Sailboat

A relaxed lifestyle.

Life on a sailboat is so much more relaxing than living on dry land for many reasons. Materialism is a thing of the past as there simply isn’t enough space to store anything but the essentials, and the sounds and sights of nature are constant and all around. You can expect a casual, laid-back lifestyle free of many of the trappings of modern life. 

A Healthier Way of Life and Connection to Nature

When you live on a boat, exercise and fresh air aren’t commodities that need to be carved out of your daily life in the form of gyms and runs in the park. You’ll have no choice but to keep active as you run and maintain your boat, and with nature all around you’ll be kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming and snorkeling too. Your sense of connection to nature will heighten as you learn to read the weather, the seasons and the wildlife around you. 

Lower Cost of Living

With the prices of rent skyrocketing in most cities across the Unites States, Canada, Europe and beyond, more and more people are taking to the water for a more affordable way of living. A residential mooring, including power, water, internet access, laundry, showers and storage can cost considerably less than the rent and utilities on even a small apartment. Of course you need to factor in maintenance costs and the associated costs of boat ownership (which we’ll look at in more detail below) but you can expect a much lower cost of living on a sailboat. 

A Close Sense of Community

Living in a marina or boating community is like living in a village where everyone shares your life choices and passions. Boating communities are strong and tight-knit, which offers not just the chance for camaraderie and new friendships, but for safety too. Strangers won’t go unnoticed wandering around a marina!

The Opportunity to Travel Cheaply

Travel is an expensive pastime, but if you live on a boat you can travel anywhere, anytime you choose. Whether it’s day trips up the coast, weekend adventures further afield, or a more transient lifestyle sailing around the world , the choice is yours. 

sunset living on a sailboat

Disadvantages of Living on a Sailboat

Lack of space.

Personal space and physical storage space are both lacking when it comes to living on a boat. While there are good boat storage ideas , ultimately you’ll have to be ruthless when it comes to personal possessions. Everything from clothes to cooking items to personal trinkets need to be scaled back to the bare minimum. And while it can be a hugely bonding experience, when it comes to who you share your limited space with, it’s important to make sure they share your dream of living on a sailboat. Tensions can rise quickly when one person isn’t enjoying the experience. 

Maintenance

Boats need constant maintenance, and so you might find you’ve always got something on your to-do list. But create a schedule, learn to do a lot of it yourself to save on costs and it won’t seem so overwhelming. 

Bureaucratic difficulties

For reasons known only to them, some people perceive life on a sailboat as bohemian or of dropping out of society. While most boaters couldn’t care less what other people think of them, it’s worth noting that there can judgment or prejudice when using a marina address as your fixed abode when applying for jobs for example. If you don’t have a fixed address then bureaucracy such as getting a cellphone contract can be tricky. 

Bad weather

While warm summers are blissful, and even the pitter patter of rain on your boat is melodic and calming, a massive thunderstorm or freezing temperatures can be less fun. Living on a boat means you have to be prepared for any weather, and take steps such as keeping things stored away safely at all times. Living on a boat in winter adds its own challenges, from keeping the interior warm to ensuring you winterize the engine . 

There can be long waiting lists for residential moorings

As the popularity of living on a boat grows every year, the waiting lists for some marinas can be several years long. Residential moorings are different to recreational moorings, so you can’t just move onto your boat if you don’t register as doing so. You can expect longer waiting lists in big cities than in more remote areas. 

Can you Live on a Sailboat Full Time? 

The answer is a resounding yes! And there are thousands of people doing so in the United States and around the world. Laws and regulations are different in different countries, and even in the US different states have their own laws as to where you can live on a boat. You have several options for where you can live on a sailboat which include:

Living on a Sailboat in a Marina

Unless you are planning to sail around the world or live a transient boating life, most people opt to live in marinas on residential moorings. These will come with some restrictions, such as how long you can stay, how much you need to pay, and they will also require you to have insurance. But in return you get safety and security, shelter and a sense of community, as well as amenities such as storage, fresh water, electricity, WiFi internet and laundry facilities. 

Living on a Sailboat in the Ocean

This is a trickier option, as there will be places where you can drop anchor for certain periods of time, and plenty where you can’t. You can live in international waters (24 miles off the coast) for as long as you choose, as well as in contiguous zones, which are defined as are 12 to 24 nautical miles away from a country’s coastline. However this is a difficult way of life as you’ll need access to food supplies, fresh water, laundry and so forth. Living on your sailboat coastally is possible but more difficult, as you must avoid shipping lanes, city harbors and private harbors. This type of lifestyle is better suited to those who prefer to cruise up and down a stretch of coast rather than staying in one place. 

Living on a Sailboat on a Lake

It less common to live on a sailboat in a lake, but not unheard of by any means. With most lake shores privately owned, you’re only option would be a residential marina. More information:  The Most Popular Types of Lake Boats

sailing yacht with a dog

The Cost of Living on a Sailboat

Living on a boat is an attractively affordable option compared to land-based rents and house prices. However, it’s important to know what the costs involved are likely to be before making your choice. Check out our article on the Costs of Owning a Boat for a thorough breakdown, but in general you will need account for: 

  • Residential Mooring Fees : This type of mooring allows you to live on your boat in marina full time. It will most likely cost more than a recreational mooring as you get additional facilities. 
  • Utilities : You’ll need to pay for the electricity and water that you use (as well as sewage pumping out) but the bills are going to be considerably less than they would be living in a house or apartment. Boats are small spaces so they use less electricity to heat or cool, and there are far fewer electrical appliances to run too. While you may need to charge your battery, many sailors opt for solar panels allowing them to be fully off-grid and to cut the energy costs altogether. When it comes to water, you can be sure you’ll get very good at conserving water when you have to keep filling up the water tank on a regular basis. WiFi is often included as part of your residential mooring fee. 
  • Marine Mortgage Repayments: If you don’t own your boat outright you most likely have a marine mortgage on it which means you will have regular monthly payments to your lender. These will of course vary depending on the type of boat you have, how much it cost to buy and how much deposit you put down. More information:  Best ways to finance a boat today
  • Liveaboard Insurance:  Residential marinas will require you to have this specific  insurance policy when registering and living there full time. Likewise, you need to inform your insurance company if you start living on your boat as the policy you have might cover you. There will be different rates for whether you’re sailing locally or internationally as well as other factors such as the size and type of boat and your location. 
  • Maintenance Costs: Boats require on-going maintenance - much more than a house - so you need to account for the costs of spares, replacement parts and labor if it isn’t a job you can do by yourself or the boat needs lifting out of the water. The general rule is to allow 10% of the value of your boat each year for upkeep. 
  • Taxes: In the United States boat property taxes are assessed differently depending on where you live. As an example, in California annual tax is 1.1% of the boat’s current value. 

Can I Make Money while Living on a Sailboat?

A boat is more than just a home, it’s the chance for adventure that others will pay money to enjoy too. Many boat owners make a living or supplement their income by offering charter vacations on their sailboats. Chartering your sailboat is the most common option, but there are lots of other great ideas too;

  • Offer sightseeing cruises : You can offer private sailboat tours along the coast for anything from a couple of hours to a full day. Visitors to your local area are more likely to sign up than locals, although romantic sunset cruises or even small weddings might be appealing to local residents. You could include trips to sea caves or beautiful beaches, offer a beach BBQ, or simply cruise along soaking up the coastal scenery. 
  • Teach sailing lessons : You could offer sailing lessons from your sailboat. If you’re a trained instructor you could offer accredited courses, otherwise you could offer lessons on a more informal basis, allowing people to gain sea time and experience.
  • Wildlife-watching expeditions: If you’re lucky enough to live somewhere frequented by impressive wildlife you could offer wildlife-watching expeditions. It might be whales or dolphins, seals and sea lions, migrating whalesharks or sea birds.
  • Start a blog or Instagram account : There is money to be made in social media, and if you can offer valuable information or entertainment that gets read or watched by a lot of people it can be quite lucrative. You can earn money from advertising on your blog site, or if you become an influencer you may get offered useful products for free in exchange for reviewing them.
  • Advertise your boat to film crew: Production crews are always looking for sets for small films or advertisements, and your boat could be just what they’re after. Register with local media, advertising or film companies and let them know your boat is available. 

Written By: Samantha Wilson

Samantha Wilson has spent her entire life on and around boats, from tiny sailing dinghies all the way up to superyachts. She writes for many boating and yachting publications, top charter agencies, and some of the largest travel businesses in the industry, combining her knowledge and passion of boating, travel and writing to create topical, useful and engaging content.

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Cost To Live On A Sailboat In The Caribbean

Cost To Live On A Sailboat In The Caribbean | Life of Sailing

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

June 15, 2022

So, you've decided that you want to commit to living on your sailboat, and, you've chosen the Caribbean.

‍ Why wouldn't you? It's beautiful, warm, the people are friendly, the food is great, the fishing is top-notch, and their entire way of life is relaxing.

The Caribbean is an awesome place to live, especially if you are lucky enough to do so on your sailboat. There are some things you might want to consider before moving out there, though. Such as, can you afford it? The chances are you could afford a marina slip, at least if you could afford one in America. But is the marina going to be up to the standards you were hoping for? Will you even be able to afford it without working, or with reduced income. Is the Caribbean even the right place for you? This article answers all of that and more!

Table of contents

How much does it cost to live on a sailboat in the Caribbean?

Living in the Caribbean isn't quite as cheap as most people expect it to be. It isn't going to be crazy expensive, at least it doesn't have to be. You can get a pretty nice marina slip in the Caribbean for about $1000 a month. This is going to get you some security, some decent amenities, and a nice location. You could "slum it" and get a far cheaper marina slip near where the locals will dock their boats, but you aren't getting all the added pleasantries and amenities. You might also find yourself quite far out of town. To put that in perspective, a year's worth of accommodation in the Caribbean will only cost you about $12k. Far less than rent might be, and certainly far less than organizing some sort of vacation accommodation. If you choose to live in one of the smaller, for lack of a better word poorer, island nations you will find that your money goes a lot further. You could rent a luxury marina slip for just a few hundred dollars a month. The Dominican Republic is a good example of this.

You must also consider how you are going to be paying tax when you are living here. If you are only technically visiting (just a few months) and are still technically living in the US, you can avoid paying income tax in your host nation. This isn't ethically or legally wrong so long as you do only stay a few months here and a few months there. If you plan to pick one country and live there long term, make sure you register with the country. It is easiest to do this before you go but can be done locally in most cases. If you are unsure what to do, you can always give the American consulate a call. They should be able to help you out. Maintenance is also something that many people fail to consider fully before making the move.

When you move to a new country you need to find a new everything. A new doctor, dentist, mechanic, grocery store, gym, etc. This is part of the fun of moving, at least it is for most people. The problem is when you move somewhere new with a sailboat you must immediately find a good boat repair yard and storage dock. These costs vary from island to island, of course. But you will find it is generally cheaper than the US. Don't be thrown off by low prices when looking at repairs. Labor is much cheaper here. Use your gut instinct when deciding if a boat repairman seems legit. Storage is also something you will need to consider, especially if you plan on going on vacation without the boat. And, perhaps the rainy season if you plan on sticking around. A good storage facility will be about $10-$15 per foot. Much less than you might be paying in the states. (perhaps about $40 per foot).

The cost of living should drop pretty drastically. Food, liquor, and basic amenities will be far cheaper than you have likely ever seen before. But, some of the brand names "luxury" items that you may not want to live without might end up costing you an arm and a leg. Do you want Lucky Charms for breakfast? Because there is a good chance they won't have them. And if they do, they'll fleece you for as much as they can. This is how any country operates with products a select few people want and are also hard to come by. If you are a flexible person, making this adjustment shouldn't be too hard. Who knows, perhaps you'll find a new favorite!

Why would you want to live on a sailboat?

There are lots of great reasons to live on a sailboat in the Caribbean. It allows you to sail around and go where you please. The island nations of the Caribbean are all spectacularly beautiful and pretty relaxed when it comes to immigration. You will be changing countries whenever you arrive at a new island (usually), but many won't even ask for a passport on arrival. You should have one, of course. But it is nice that you can take it easy. Living on your sailboat can also give you the peacefulness and quiet you are very likely seeking. You can drop anchor anywhere you like, in any of the calmer water at least, and just relax and unwind. Living on your boat also gives you the adventure so many of us crave. Being able to explore those historic islands, following the routes of long sunken trade ships from pre-industrial Europe. What an opportunity. Something very few people can do.

Why would you want to live in the Caribbean?

There are so many great reasons for living in the Caribbean. If you have never been, the way of life can be a little hard to describe. It is a unique pace of life. People there value things differently. I think it is fair to say that they are generally more relaxed and welcoming to outsiders than most other countries. In part, because they are inherently friendly people. And also, because such a large amount of many of the island's income is reliant on tourists. Being friendly, and being safe, is of paramount importance. That's why the islands are such a great place to live. Or vacation. When you are living there, the two almost blend into one.

The Caribbean is also incredibly diverse. So many countries bustled up together with tourists from the world over has created a true cultural melting pot. If you want a chance to meet people from all over the world, this is the place to do it. Plus, you likely won't see them again. At least not often. The benefit of making friends with tourists, they are very casual relationships. This can be good or bad depending on your perspective. This also means there are endless places to eat, cuisines to try, and cocktails to sample. The islands try to accommodate everyone, this is aimed at tourists of course, but you can take advantage of it all the same.

The Caribbean is also quite reasonably priced. Everything that isn't aimed at tourists is priced for the locals, meaning it is pretty cheap. This doesn't help you with the luxury items, but the everyday essentials you are good to go. Having a good job and moving to an area where your dollars stretch further is a good way to either save money or live a life that was normally out of your means. That choice would be up to you - if it were me though, I would go for the extra savings. Maybe put that extra money towards some luxuries on the boat. Like a TV and a SatPhone or a satellite internet router.

What are some things you should know about sailing in the Caribbean?

The Caribbean is a great place to sail. The waters are normally pretty calm, the conditions are generally good, and the maritime laws are relaxed enough that you can feel at ease but strict enough that it isn't total mayhem. One thing to consider is the depth of your hull. You see, the Caribbean waters are rather shallow. At least close to the mainland. The waters are shallow and the sea bed is made of sharp shale. The chance of you scuppering yourself is quite high. This is why so many ships swap out their fin keels for a torpedo-shaped one. Or, they simply cut half of the fin off. Learning to navigate shallow waters is a good idea before you arrive. That and having a decent depth finder onboard.

You will also want to be wary of the rainy season. That is May to October for most places. The rain itself isn't a problem, so long as you don't mind being confined to your ship for a short while. The real problem is the storms. Cyclones are not uncommon. They arrive multiple times during the rainy season. If you have lived on the east coast of America, you are likely used to getting cyclones to blow in from far out at sea. Well, most of those storms make landfall in the Caribbean first. Meaning what you have seen in America is only a taste of what's to come. This is fine if you live on the island. Storm shutters, a fully stocked pantry, and a backup generator are enough to see you through the worst of it. On your sailboat though, you are at serious risk of capsizing. You may want to find a friend who will allow you to wait out the storm in their home. Or book yourself into a hotel. That will save you, but your ship is at the mercy of the storm.

Tips for sustaining yourself while living/working in the Caribbean

If you are planning on living in the Caribbean, the best advice would be to secure a remote working job (or jobs) before you go. Wages on the islands reflect the general economy. They are poor paying, to say the least. Unless you can get a high up job at one of the hotels or one of the few business firms. If you plan on moving around, from island to island, the best idea is to start your own business that can be run from home. One that doesn't need a physical presence, just a wifi connection. Having a hefty savings account before you go is the best way to ensure you have some breathing room. If you are lucky enough to have already retired, well your pension check should be enough to cover you. And then some!

Conclusion:

Hopefully, this article has given you a good idea about how much it can cost living in the Caribbean. And, how feasible living there truly is. If you don't have a source of income pre-planned you aren't ready to move. Having a nice savings account and at least $1000 a month to spend on the marina slip is a good starting point. The scale of value in the Caribbean is pretty great. Meaning, a $1000 marina in the Caribbean will be amazing. A $2000 one will be out of this world. You will get far more for your money than you would in most places in the US. If you are looking to cut costs, bring some good fishing rods with you. The fishing in the Caribbean is phenomenal. You'll have a blast. Good luck with the move, make sure you are fully prepared financially before you set sail. And remember - Don't forget your passport!

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

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Exploring the Joys and Challenges of Living on a Boat

Living on a sailboat.

L iving on a sailboat is a dream for many adventurous souls. The thought of waking up to the gentle sway of the ocean, feeling the salty breeze on your face, and exploring new horizons every day is incredibly alluring. However, just like any lifestyle choice, living on a boat comes with its own set of joys and challenges. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of living on a sailboat and provide insights into the unique experiences it offers.

Embracing the Boat Community

One of the most rewarding aspects of living on a sailboat is becoming a part of the vibrant boat community. Whether you choose to dock in a marina or anchor in a secluded cove, you will soon discover a network of fellow boaters who share your passion for the sea. This close-knit community becomes your extended family, always ready to lend a helping hand or share their seafaring wisdom.

Spending time with like-minded individuals who understand the joys and challenges of living on a boat can provide a sense of camaraderie that is hard to find elsewhere. From impromptu dockside gatherings to organized regattas, your social calendar will be filled with exciting events that celebrate the boating lifestyle. The boat community truly embodies the spirit of adventure and exploration.

Challenges of Coastal Living

Living on a boat also presents its fair share of challenges. While the idea of constantly being surrounded by magnificent coastal views may seem idyllic, the reality is that coastal living can be unpredictable. Inclement weather, rough seas, and shifting tides are all part of the daily routine for a boat dweller.

Adapting to the ebb and flow of life on the water requires resilience and adaptability. Simple tasks like grocery shopping or doing laundry can become more complicated when you have to factor in weather conditions and boat accessibility. However, these challenges also teach valuable life skills, such as problem-solving, resourcefulness, and a deep connection with nature.

Exploring Coastal Living Adventures

Despite the challenges, living on a boat opens up a world of unparalleled adventures. Coastal living offers an ever-changing playground where each day brings new discoveries. From secluded anchorages with crystal-clear waters to picturesque fishing villages steeped in history, there is always something to explore and experience.

The freedom to chart your own course and navigate the open waters is a feeling like no other. Whether you long for solitude and serenity or seek adrenaline-pumping water sports, coastal living has something to offer everyone. Imagine waking up to dolphins frolicking alongside your boat or witnessing a breathtaking sunrise over the horizon – these are the moments that make living on a boat truly extraordinary.

Living in Harmony with Nature

Living on a sailboat inherently fosters a deep connection with the natural world. Unlike traditional land-based living, boat dwellers are constantly immersed in the elements – the sun, wind, and sea become an integral part of their daily existence. This symbiotic relationship with nature instills a profound sense of appreciation and respect for the environment.

Boat dwellers often strive to live in harmony with the ecosystems they encounter. Responsible boating practices, such as minimizing waste, conserving water, and respecting marine life, become second nature to those who call the water their home. The ocean becomes not only a playground but also a cherished resource that should be protected for future generations to enjoy.

Tips for Aspiring Boat Dwellers

If the idea of living on a boat has captured your imagination, here are a few tips to help you on your journey:

  • Start with sailing lessons: Before diving into the world of boat living, it's essential to gain basic sailing knowledge and experience. Take sailing lessons or crew on boats to hone your skills and learn from seasoned sailors.
  • Research boat options: Choosing the right boat for your lifestyle is crucial. Research different types of boats and assess their suitability for the environment you plan to live in.
  • Minimize possessions: Living on a boat requires downsizing and embracing a minimalist lifestyle. Assess your belongings and prioritize what is truly essential for your new life on the water.
  • Prepare for maintenance: Boat ownership comes with ongoing maintenance and repairs. Learn basic boat maintenance skills and be prepared for regular upkeep.
  • Connect with the boat community: Reach out to fellow boaters, join boating associations, and participate in events to connect with the boat community. Their knowledge and support will prove invaluable throughout your boating journey.
  • Embrace the unknown: Living on a boat is an adventure filled with surprises and uncertainties. Embrace the unknown and approach each day with an open mind and a sense of curiosity.

Living on a sailboat is a unique lifestyle that promises both incredible joys and inevitable challenges. From forging lifelong friendships within the boat community to embracing the freedom of coastal living, the experiences gained from life on the water are truly priceless. So, if the call of the sea resonates deep within you, consider following your dreams and exploring the wonders of living on a boat.

The post Exploring the Joys and Challenges of Living on a Boat appeared first on Things That Make People Go Aww .

Living on a Sailboat Living on a sailboat is a dream for many adventurous souls. The thought of waking up to the gentle sway of the ocean, feeling the salty breeze on your face, and exploring new horizons every day is incredibly alluring. However, just like any lifestyle choice, living on a boat comes with...

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    The first cost to consider when living on a sailboat is the marina fees/slip fees. The marina costs for a sailboat are approximately $10 to $20 per foot per month. For example, a sailboat owner with a boat size of 30 feet will typically pay between $300 and $600 per month in slip fees to stay at a marina. A marina will charge a boat owner on a ...

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    How Much Does Living on a Sailboat Full-Time Cost? Living aboard a boat will generally cost somewhere between $500 and $10,000 per month at either extreme. For most, it's probably somewhere close to $1,500 - $5000. We spend somewhere around $2,500 per month living on a boat in the Mediterranean.

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    Sample Liveaboard Budget. Now that we've covered the basic expenses to expect when living aboard, we'll put together a sample liveaboard budget. The figures are based on someone making a monthly income of $4,000 docking a 30-foot sailboat at a reasonably priced marina. Monthly Expense.

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    Living on a sailboat offers freedom and flexibility: It allows individuals to have a nomadic lifestyle and explore different locations at their own pace. Living on a sailboat is a cost-effective lifestyle: Compared to traditional living arrangements, the expenses associated with living on a sailboat can be significantly lower.

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    The cost of living on a sailboat can vary depending on individual preferences and circumstances. Some people spend less than $1,000 a month, while others spend upwards of $10,000. On average, the monthly cost is around $2,424, including expenses such as maintenance, insurance, provisions, marina fees, fuel, internet, entertainment, personal ...

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    The cost of living on a sailboat full-time is approximately $1,880 per month or $22,560 per year. (Source: deepsailing.com) Marina fees for a sailboat range from $10 to $20 per foot per month.

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    One parting thought: Living on a boat full time and traveling is like having three or four full-time jobs. Each requires 30-40 hours per week when you include labor, research, and thinking and planning. Boat ownership — basic maintenance and cleaning. Cruising full-time — destination and route planning, weather study.

  10. The Costs of Living on a Sailboat

    Real cost of living on a sailboat: $500 to $3k per month. Our Cost of Living: Sailing Around the World (Dana Greyson): $1,500 to $2,500 a month. Top 10 Aspects of Living on a Boat: $460 a month. Cruising Budget for the Third Year on a New Catamaran: $32k per year. Lots of information here and quite a spread on costs.

  11. How to Retire on a Sailboat

    On average, the cost to dock a liveaboard sailboat ranges from $600 to $3,000 per year. This is considerably cheaper than rent in most places. That sail, slip fees vary widely between locations and cities. Some marinas charge per foot of length, with prices ranging from $5 per foot to upwards of $300 per foot per year.

  12. Set Sail: How to Enjoy Living on a Sailboat to the Fullest

    Insurance Costs While boat insurance isn't mandated in all parts of the United States, when your sailboat is your home, you're going to want to have it insured. Sailboat insurance is generally calculated as around 1.5% of the boat's value, so a sailboat that's worth $40,000 will cost you around $600 to insure each year, and that's a small price ...

  13. How Much Sailboats Cost On Average (380+ Prices Compared)

    Best-value ocean cruiser (40') $166,000. $1,300. The average price of new sailboats is $425,000 ($127,000 to $821,000). The average price of used sailboats is $278,000 ($67,000 to $555,000). Maintenance costs are on average $2,000 - $3,000 per year, and the average total annual cost is $3,000 to $7,000. Of course the price of a sailboat depends ...

  14. How Much Money Do You Need To Retire On A Sailboat?

    It could cost between $500-$10,000+ per month to retire on a sailboat. This number covers the wide range of variables in spending that can occur from person to person. A frugal person living at anchor on a boat they own may live on as little as $500/month. Alternatively, the sky's the limit for how much a person may spend if they are living in ...

  15. Living on a Boat Full Time: How Much Will It Cost You?

    Get the boat ready for life aboard, not just a weekend in the islands. Prepare the boat before you move so it feels like a home, not a camper. If you move from a 2,000-square foot house to a 45-foot boat, you may have a two-bed/two bath waterfront condo but all the closets are smaller, the cupboards are fewer and there's no two-car garage.

  16. How To Live on a Sailboat

    Living on a sailboat is possible if you find the right boat, stay organized, manage maintenance and utilities effectively, make an income, and choose a suitable marina. ... Cost To Sail Around The World. Daniel Wade. May 16, 2023. Small Sailboat Sizes: A Complete Guide. Daniel Wade. October 30, 2022. Popular Posts.

  17. Affordable Ways to Live on a Sailboat: Expert Tips for Cheap Living

    The upfront costs for living on a sailboat for free include the boat itself, the solar system, a chartplotter, fishing equipment, a vegetable garden, a watermaker, and a dinghy. (Source: Our Team) The monthly cost of living for free on a sailboat ranges from $200 to $500, which includes maintenance, fuel, canned food, and a MiFi device.

  18. Boat Life 101: How to Live on a Boat (EXPERT TIPS • 2024)

    Boat Life 101: How to Live on a Boat and Travel the World! (2024) Waves lap at the hull of the boat. Your feet are in the glassy water, a glass of rum in your hand, and a glorious sunset in front of you. Of course, the weather is perrrfect. Just another day in the life of living on a boat.

  19. Living In A Sailboat: An Insider's Guide To Sailboat Life

    You can get it cheaper but there are no recommended surveyors in Sicily so we made the decision to fly one in from the UK. That way there weren't any language barriers either. We were slightly unlucky that the marina the sailboat was in was such an expensive one to get a lift out, you can get lifted out for more like £200-£300 ($250 - $380 USD) in other boatyards.

  20. Living on a Sailboat: Is it Right for You?

    The Cost of Living on a Sailboat. Living on a boat is an attractively affordable option compared to land-based rents and house prices. However, it's important to know what the costs involved are likely to be before making your choice.

  21. Living On A Sailboat

    Living on a sailboat brings us closer to nature. We tend to go to sleep when the sun sets and rise with the sun. You're dealing with the weather on a daily basis, whether it's heat, wind, rain, or cold. You experience weather more intensely on a boat. This causes us to appreciate the good weather all that much more.

  22. How Much Does It Really Cost To Live On A Sailboat?

    It can cost from as little as a few hundred dollars a month to as much as thousands of dollars a month to live on a sailboat, depending on how you do it. People who are willing to rough it a little bit often find that they can live on a sailboat very affordably. If you've been wondering how much it really costs to live on a sailboat and ...

  23. Cost To Live On A Sailboat In The Caribbean

    A good storage facility will be about $10-$15 per foot. Much less than you might be paying in the states. (perhaps about $40 per foot). The cost of living should drop pretty drastically. Food, liquor, and basic amenities will be far cheaper than you have likely ever seen before.

  24. Exploring the Joys and Challenges of Living on a Boat

    Learn basic boat maintenance skills and be prepared for regular upkeep. Connect with the boat community: Reach out to fellow boaters, join boating associations, and participate in events to ...