motorboat liveaboard

5 Best Liveaboard Boats

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Last Updated on November 3, 2023 by Boatsetter Team

Want to live aboard a boat? Maybe you’re looking for more affordable waterfront living, or an alternative lifestyle – either way – living on a boat has many rewards. That said, choosing the right boat will make all the difference to your happiness. Before you commit, consider these five best liveaboard boats : 

• Motor yachts and cabin cruisers 
• Trawlers 
• Sailboats 
• Catamarans 
• Houseboats 

  Find Live Abroad Boats ready for rent here

Motor yachts and Cabin Cruisers

Motor yachts is a broad term that encompasses large(ish) motorboats with accommodations like a bed (sleeping cabin), a head (bathroom), and a galley (kitchen). These boats can be quite large such as an Absolute 50 with a flybridge that provides extra space for outdoor recreation/entertainment, like the backyard of a house. 

Models like these usually have three cabins and two heads to accommodate an entire family. Of course, big boats come with big price tags and lots of maintenance needs, so you may not save much over living in a condo. 

Consider how much space you need and check out some best liveaboard boats under 40 feet. Cabin cruisers like the Cutwater 32 are great choices. This boat has one cabin as well as a galley and lounge area (living room) with large windows that bring in lots of natural light and air. 

The twin outboard engines can transport your home to new surroundings in the blink of an eye. Best of all, boats under 40 feet may save you a million dollars (literally) over large motor yachts and provide many of the same amenities. 

2. Trawlers  

Trawlers are a great option because they are built with the liveaboard lifestyle in mind. They’re typically slower boats designed for long-distance cruising, and they come in many sizes from a large Nordhavn 60 built for tough ocean conditions to a more compact Beneteau Swift 35 that’s ideal for coastal cruising. 

Most trawlers have good liveaboard layouts and will travel at speeds 8-10 knots, where they offer good fuel consumption , which is important with high diesel prices. 

Pro Tip: Not all trawlers are slow – the French Swift series is designed to run at planning as well as trawling speeds, so you get the best of both. 

READ MORE: Don’t Ignore Your Bucket List: Great Loop  

3. Sailboats

Perhaps you’re contemplating living aboard in preparation for long-distance cruising under sail. Sailboats come in all sizes, just like motor yachts, but they’re usually narrower, and most of the living aboard happens lower down in the boat, so they’re not as airy and light. 

On the plus side, because space is more premium, sailboat design is very efficient, so you can pile a lot into a sailboat and still have room for sailing necessities. 

Looking for a compact sailboat? Consider the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 380 with two or three cabins in just 38 feet. For something a bit roomier, check out the new Hanse 510 . This massive model can be spec’d with up to five cabins and even has a tender garage. 

The great thing about sailboats is that you can travel long distances when you want to change your neighborhood entirely – and with little money spent on fuel. 

4. Catamarans

Catamarans are boats with twin hulls and they can be both power and sail models. They have many advantages including more room aboard than the same-length monohulls with better cabin privacy and more system redundancy for backup options. 

They’re more stable both in motion and at anchor (dock) so they produce less seasickness and are more comfortable in a rolly anchorage at night. They’re roomy platforms for kids as well as older folks but due to their beam (width), it’s harder to find a slip for them in a marina. 

Sailing cat models come in various sizes and prices. Production boats like the Fountaine Pajot Isla 40 and the Excess 11 are both around 40 feet but feel much bigger than a monohull sailboat of equal length. 

Many cats come in an “owners’ version” where one entire hull is dedicated to the master suite which is like a bedroom at home. Models like these start around $500,000 but upmarket, carbon fiber, semi-custom designs like the HH55 will set you back multiple millions.

Powercats are growing in popularity and offer the same amenities as their sailing counterparts, except they have bigger engines to travel at much greater speeds. Powers can be on the smaller side, like the 32-foot Aspen C100, or quite sizeable, like the Aquila 54. Cats tend to be more expensive to purchase and to own since there are two of just about everything to maintain. 

5. Houseboats

If you want to live aboard but have little interest in being mobile, you may consider a houseboat. These boats usually maximize living space and are shaped more like houses than boats. Household-sized amenities, including side-by-side refrigerators, massive sofas, and large TVs can be had.

Because they don’t require much technical gear like engines, electronics, and advanced power systems, houseboats can be quite affordable and can make the best liveaboard boats under $100k. 

A few companies build houseboats like Eco-Sea Cottages, but many will be one-off and home-built designs. Although these boats don’t move (much), they must still have a solid floating foundation to be safe, and only some marinas will allow them to dock there.

One more thing to consider

There are no hard rules as to what makes a great liveaboard boat! You just have to find one that suits you and your budget. Read our Living on a Boat post for more insight, and be sure to browse through Boatsetter to find the perfect liveaboard boat. 

About Boatsetter 

Boatsetter is a unique boat-sharing platform that gives everyone — whether you own a boat or yyou’rejust renting — the chance to experience life on the water. You can list a boat , book a boat , or make money as a captain .  

List. Rent. Earn— Only at Boatsetter

Zuzana Prochazka is an award-winning freelance journalist and photographer with regular contributions to more than a dozen sailing and powerboating magazines and online publications including Southern Boating, SEA, Latitudes & Attitudes and SAIL. She is SAIL magazines Charter Editor and the Executive Director of Boating Writers International. Zuzana serves as judge for SAIL’s Best Boats awards and for Europe’s Best of Boats in Berlin. 

A USCG 100 Ton Master, Zuzana founded and manages a flotilla charter organization called Zescapes that takes guests adventure sailing at destinations worldwide. 

Zuzana has lived in Europe, Africa and the United States and has traveled extensively in South America, the islands of the South Pacific and Mexico. 

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Used Live Aboard Boats For Sale

70' Hatteras 1988

Stuart, United States

63' Viking Motor Yacht 1989

Little River, United States

60' Viking 60 Cockpit Sport Yacht 1996

Palmetto, United States

56' Carver 564 Motor Yacht Aft Cabin 2002

Portland, United States

55' Viking 55 Convertible 2013

$ 2,149,000

Pensacola, United States

54' Hatteras Motoryacht 1987

Savannah, United States

54' Sea Ray Sundancer 2013

Cancun, Mexico

53' Hatteras 53 Motor Yacht 1980

Mystic, United States

52' Hatteras Sport 1999

Miami Beach, United States

51' Riviera 51 Flybridge 2008

Marathon, United States

50' Absolute 50 Fly 2019

$ 1,060,000

Manhattan, United States

50' Custom Trawler 1991

Description

If your dream is to live aboard a yacht, United Yacht Sales has the inventory to connect you with the perfect boat for your needs. We feature more than 1,000 listings at any given time. You can always find a huge selection of live aboard yachts for sale in Florida and elsewhere in the United States. These live aboard yachts are made by a number of top brands, including Hatteras , Viking , Sea Ray , Tiara , Sunseeker , Kadey-Krogen , and more. Our inventory also represents a variety of dimensions, ages, amenities, price points and other characteristics and features.

SPEAK TO A SALES PROFESSIONAL

How We Can Help?

Founded in 2002, United Yachts Sales has grown to become the largest independent yacht brokerage in the world. In addition to our 1,000-plus listings, we have a team of more than 100 brokers spread across the United States and Canada. These brokers are experienced and knowledgeable, and each is more than capable of helping you find the perfect live aboard yacht for sale in Florida. Our team's talent is evidenced by our results - each year, about 600 transactions close representing about $100 million. When you want a live aboard yacht, we know how to find and secure it for you.

Browse our selection of live aboard yachts for sale in Florida and contact the listed broker to get more details or ask questions. If you don't see a yacht that meets your needs, contact one of our United Yacht Sales brokers directly. We can watch the market for a boat that better fits your requirements.

Browse our inventory or contact us today .

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Best Liveaboard Boats to Live On Full-Time

Living on a boat represents a significant and thrilling life choice . Departing from the comforts of traditional dwellings and the spaciousness they provide in favor of an unconventional lifestyle is an option that an increasing number of individuals are embracing. Escalating urban living costs, particularly in major cities, coupled with the daily routines of life, have led more people to seek a simplified existence on the water . A previous article examined the merits and drawbacks of residing on a boat. This piece delves into the diverse range of liveaboard boat styles. It identifies the most suitable Boats to Live On for year-round living.

Options for Living on a Boat Full-Time

Best Liveaboard Boats encompass a broad spectrum of possibilities. From stationary houseboats to highly maneuverable sailboats and an array of options, the choices continue to expand with innovative , designer-driven , and spacious vessels .

Ultimately, practically any boat can serve as a domicile. While some may find the space restrictive, it remains feasible . The decision largely hinges on one's preferred lifestyle, whether residing in a water-based community near work and social circles or embarking on seafaring adventures worldwide.

Types of Best Liveaboard Boats

Sailboats for full-time living.

Sailboats, available in various shapes and sizes, epitomize the essence of maritime freedom. They offer an economical means of purchase and travel, as wind power is free . Moreover, finding a berth for a sailboat is generally easier and more affordable than larger houseboats. On the downside, sailboats often have limited space, and smaller models may lack showers or hot water. Size considerations, such as single-handed sailing capability and budgetary factors , are crucial for operational feasibility , as larger sailboats tend to incur higher operating costs.

Sailboats are known for their:

Economical purchasing and maintenance costs. Ease of finding berths compared to larger houseboats . Versatility in terms of mobility. However, they may need more conveniences of larger houseboats and have limited space.

The Best Sailboats to Live On

Whether one seeks a new or used sailboat, the options are vast . While identifying the absolute best sailboats may prove elusive, some standout choices include:

Catalina 38

Produced from 1978 to 1999 , the Catalina 38 sloop offers a comfortable living space for couples. Its thoughtful features, from electrical outlets to a well-equipped galley, provide a cozy cruising experience. Despite limited space, the Catalina 38 is an excellent choice for adventurous living.

Originating from the 1970s, the Hunter 33 , an aft-cockpit sloop, enjoys enduring popularity. With ample interior space, including a full dinette , head , shower , master cabin , and standing room height , this sailing yacht offers comfort. It boasts a contemporary design and a homely atmosphere.

Peterson 44

Slightly larger than the previous options, the Peterson 44 is a double-spread cutter that caters to various living needs. Ideal for small families, it combines affordability with home comforts like a shower , galley with oven , fridge , freezer , three cabins , and a practical center cockpit .

Catamarans for Full-Time Living

For those seeking an ocean-going liveaboard with extensive amenities, including a house-sized kitchen and bathroom , multi-hull boats like catamarans and trimarans excel. The bridge connecting the hulls creates a spacious, well-lit living area above water, with bedrooms within the hulls . These boats offer enhanced stability compared to monohull vessels. However, their higher purchase and berthing costs warrant consideration.

Catamarans are prized for their:

Abundance of space relative to monohull yachts . Full-sized kitchen and bathroom facilities. Enhanced stability in rough seas . Nevertheless, they tend to incur higher acquisition and berthing expenses due to their wider dimensions.

Read also this : Best Catamaran Fishing Boat Brands

The Best Catamarans to Live on

The catamaran market, encompassing motor and sail models, thrives, particularly among Boats that Live On Full-Time liveaboards. Notable models include :

Privilege 435

Founded in 1999, the Alliaura Marine Privilege 435 impresses with its comfort and spaciousness. Its luxurious finishings , latest technology , and navigational equipment create an elegant and homely atmosphere. Featuring four bedrooms and the iconic central 'hull' for added space, it accommodates a range of activities, from living to coastal cruising.

Situated within the Lagoon's range of luxury catamarans, the Lagoon 46 offers comfort and ample space while remaining compact for ease of handling and mooring. It boasts a spacious galley and dining area with abundant natural light , three cabins , a plush master suite , and a generous deck space .

Trawlers for Full-Time Living

Trawlers represent a unique category of powerboats designed for long-distance cruising, ideally suited for Living on a Boat Full-Time . Evolving from their origins as commercial fishing vessels, modern trawlers differ significantly. They feature wider hulls, reduced draft, increased below-deck headroom, and more space for modern amenities. Trawlers often include full-sized kitchens, showers, and multi-level living areas, especially on larger models. Despite potential initial costs and higher operational expenses , their roominess makes them a preferred choice.

Trawlers offer the following advantages:

Ample interior space relative to length . Luxurious designs are akin to penthouses. Compact dimensions for straightforward berthing. However, they typically involve higher initial purchase and operating costs than sailboats.

The Best Trawler Yachts to Live on

Modern newly built or converted trawlers showcase innovative designs and luxurious features. Notable examples include :

Grand Banks 60

Grand Banks has transformed the humble trawler into a long-range cruiser with the luxury of a small superyacht. The GB 60 combines impressive cruise speed , a customizable interior , advanced technology , and a signature deep V hull for a smoother , faster ride .

Beneteau Swift Trawlers 48

Beneteau's Swift Trawlers offers elegance and power , ideal for comfortable living at anchor or long-distance cruising. They feature a central living space with panoramic views , abundant storage , stylish cabins , and efficient engines .

Ranger Tugs R-43

Ranger Tugs specializes in high-quality, affordable vessels. The R-43 boasts a light-filled interior , two cozy cabins with en-suite shower rooms , a chef's galley , wrap-around decks , and advanced tech features , making it suitable for families or friends seeking a shared living experience.

🚀Recommended article:   Types of Boats With Cabins: A Comprehensive Overview

Houseboats for Full-Time Living

Transitioning to life on the water need not entail traversing vast oceans . The allure of awakening to birdsong and the gentle lapping of water against the hull, or reconnecting with nature and embracing a simpler existence, is at the heart of year-round boat living. Sacrificing seaworthiness for space leads to various types of static or houseboats that offer a more residential ambiance.

Non-powered houseboats featuring a steel floating pontoon supporting a mobile home-style structure deliver spacious living areas, large windows, and all the comforts of home. While they can be towed, they typically reside in residential communities along rivers, lakes, sheltered bays, and inland waterways . These houseboats often provide municipal utilities, cable television, and broadband internet connections, offering the best of both worlds.

🚀Recommended article:   Exploring the Most Popular Types of Lake Boats

Powered houseboats are self-propelled residential vessels available in various configurations. While some are suitable for shorter journeys and resemble static houseboats, others possess substantial cruising capabilities . Their squared-off silhouette accommodates ample living space relative to their length.

Houseboats are esteemed for their:

Affordable pricing compared to ocean-going yachts of similar size. Abundant interior space with home comforts. Creative interior design possibilities. Securing a residential berth for houseboats can be challenging due to their popularity ; some are exclusively towed rather than powered.

The Best Houseboats to Live on

Innovative architects have introduced a range of luxurious , creative , and imaginative designs for static and powered houseboats . These designs incorporate floor-to-ceiling windows , roaring fireplaces , and rooftop hot tubs . Some noteworthy choices include:

American Houseboat 'The Zion'

Resembling a house floating on water, these quintessential all-American houseboats measure 14 x 14 feet , providing two bedrooms with an additional loft area for up to eight guests. Featuring ample windows , a full kitchen , and a spacious private deck off the master bedroom , they combine home comforts with the joys of waterfront living.

Gibson Cabin Yacht 5000

Gibson Boats' Cabin Yacht 5000 combines affordability with spaciousness and reliability . It offers a comfortable and well-equipped living space with two or three double bedrooms , carpeting , high-quality electrical appliances , air conditioning , heating , and two full bathrooms .

Bravada Yachts Atlas V-Series

The Atlas V-Series powered houseboats redefine traditional notions of houseboat living. With futuristic silhouettes , expansive windows , two floors , and an array of home comforts , including a fire pit and rear waterslide , they elevate water-based living to new heights.

In conclusion, choosing the ideal liveaboard boat depends on individual preferences, budgetary considerations, and lifestyle goals. Sailboats offer economical and adventurous living , catamarans provide spaciousness and stability , trawlers deliver luxurious long-range cruising , and houseboats offer diverse options for embracing life on the water. Each vessel type presents unique advantages, catering to those seeking unconventional, waterborne lifestyles.

Frequently Asked Questions About Living on a Boat

Is living on a boat more affordable than a traditional home, do i need special skills to live on a boat, can i live on a boat with a family, how do i secure a mooring spot for my boat, are there any legal restrictions on living aboard a boat, can i work remotely while living on a boat, what kind of boat can you live on, how big should a boat be to live on, which boat is the strongest, can you really live on a boat.

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Best liveaboard boats: 4 of the best options for long-term cruising

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Our used boat expert Nick Burnham picks out four of the best liveaboard boats on the secondhand market right now.

One of the real joys of boating is the sheer diversity of it. Whatever you want to experience, whether it’s exhilaration, exploration, relaxation, escapism, social interaction or solitude, there’s a boating style and a boat type, specifically made for you.

And exactly the same is true for the ultimate boater’s fantasy – living aboard your floating home full time (it’s what we all dream of, right?).

So here to fulfil the fantasy are four great examples of vessels that could either take you and your family or friends around the world in a constant stream of adventures, or a more modest barge that would allow you to park up on a quiet stretch of the River Thames and enjoy a constant stream of G&Ts! Cheers!

Nordhavn 46

Built: 1997 Price: £350,000

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The Nordhavn 46 is Genesis for Nordhavn and set the tone for pretty much every model that followed. Pacific Asian Enterprises was formed by Jim Leishman and Dan Streech in 1974, originally importing and selling a line of boats from Taiwan called Transpac.

In 1978 Jeff Leishman, Jim’s younger brother, joined PAE as a part-time employee whilst still at school. Jeff completed his studies in 1987, and received his naval architecture diploma from the Yacht Design Institute.

As part of his graduation requirement, he was asked to design a vessel of his choosing. That actual design became the Nordhavn 46 and an entire new genre was born.

Saloon and galley are all on one level with stairs leading down to the owner’s cabin

Several layout options were tried in the early days, before settling down to the layout you see on this 1997 example, much of which echoes through to current models.

Designed for long-term living aboard, there’s a large saloon and galley on the main deck, with steps down to an owner’s cabin in the centre of the boat (reducing motion at sea to a minimum).

But another set of steps lead up to a proper separate wheelhouse , little-ship style. Steps forward from here drop you down to a separate guest cabin in the bow.

A wide side deck leads from the cockpit along the starboard side and up around the front of the wheelhouse in the form of a Portuguese bridge protected by a bulwark from the foredeck.

Follow it round and you’ll go back past the wheelhouse on the port side and up the stairs again to the boat deck above the saloon where the tender is stored.

The bridge deck is a few steps higher and further forward than the saloon

Performance

Nordhavns are all about range, which is why speeds are strictly limited to hull displacement speed rather than forcing more knots via a semi-displacement or planing hull.

Figure on about 8.5 knots flat out with 7.4 knots as the cruise speed, at which the 3,785 litre fuel tank should give about 2,500 miles of range.

There is a lot of boat under the water, with its full hull shape and long keel designed to help the boat plug on and on.

Nordhavn 46 specification

LOA: 45ft 9in (13.9m) Beam: 15ft 5in (4.7m) Draught: 5ft 0in (1.5m) Displacement: 20 tonnes Fuel capacity: 3,785 litres Engine: Lugger L668D 134Kw 180hp diesel engines Location: Hamble Contact: Nordhavn Europe

Aqualine Canterbury 62×10 Widebeam

Built: 2019 Price: £182,950

Widebeam narrowboat sounds like the ultimate oxymoron, but it’s a term used to denote canal barges that are, well, wider of beam. A typical narrowboat is 6ft 10in wide, and it’s constructed to this dimension in order to access virtually all of the British canal system.

In short, there are places a wide beam just can’t go. But there are plenty of places that it can. There are four main UK ‘cruising grounds’ for the widebeam owner: London and the South; East Anglia; the Severn waterways; and the Trent and North. Indeed, many owners simply use them as floating homes and never go anywhere at all.

The saloon looks more like an apartment than a boat, with proper domestic furniture…

So what’s the point of a wide beam narrowboat that can’t go everywhere? In a word, space. At 10ft wide, it’s not far short of double the beam, meaning you get almost twice the internal volume for a given length.

But it also gives you rooms that feel far more like those in a house and less like railway carriages. Given that very little of the interior is structural, it’s easy for the manufacturer to customise the layout. This particular boat has a large bedroom at the bow, a generous bathroom and a huge lounge/diner large enough for domestic furniture plus a kitchen.

Narrowboats tend to major on internal space so there is little more than vestigial side decks. There is a decent cockpit at the aft end with a large crescent of seating around a table, and a helm station with wheel steering rather than the tiller of more traditional designs. There is also a ‘well deck’ forward, which is basically a small cockpit in the bow accessed from the forward cabin.

…and the fully equipped galley could be the kitchen in a stylish new build house

Performance is probably not a word you associate with 62ft of 10mm steel plating powered by a Barrus Yanmar Shire 50hp, 4 cylinder 2,190cc diesel engine.

It will move you sedately around the inland waterways, but the fact the water tank is almost double the size of the fuel tank encapsulates the priorities of these vessels.

A misnomer – if you’re planning to put to sea, this is not the boat for you.

Aqualine Canterbury specification

LOA: 62ft 0in (18.9m) Beam: 10ft 0in (3.1m) Draught: 1ft 9in (0.6m) Displacement: 33 tonnes Fuel capacity : 430 litres Engine: Barrus Yanmar Shire 50hp diesel engine Location: Bray Contact: TBS Boats

Built: 2002 Price: £399,950

Built in 2002 by Zijlmans Jachtbouw, a family owned yacht builder in Drimmelen on the Amer River, North Brabant in Holland, this Triqual 65 has had a rather colourful history. It ended up in the Caribbean before being shipped back to Amsterdam in June 2011.

Following a tip-off from the French authorities, the HMRC intercepted the boat in Southampton. After seven days of very thorough searching, they found no drugs inside the boat. There was, however, the small matter of 1.2 tonnes of cocaine worth £300,000,000 hidden in a secret compartment located underneath the bathing platform!

The result was rather a lot of work needed when the current owner bought the boat from an HM Revenue & Customs auction in 2013. A total interior strip and rebuild to a high standard followed.

The owner wanted a boat for exploring the coastlines of Ireland and Scotland before heading over to Scandinavia and the Baltic Sea, so comfortable liveaboard boat was the name of the game and a full interior refit followed, creating a very contemporary and, above all, spacious displacement cruiser with three cabins (two doubles and a twin), a lower dinette and a large saloon area.

A total interior refit in 2013 means the saloon still feels fresh, bright and modern

A flybridge motor yacht, there is masses of space on the outside too. The large flybridge has been refitted with more seating, there’s an aft deck to enjoy and deeply bulwarked side decks encircle the boat.

A pair of Vetus Deutz DT67 231hp six cylinder diesel engines pushing over 40 tonnes of steel about (the hull is 6mm thick below the waterline, 5mm above) is never going to set any speed records, but a displacement maximum speed of 10 knots and an 8.5 knot cruise is not too shabby at all, nor is the fuel burn of 28 litres an hour, giving an impressive 1,000 nautical miles of range.

The flybridge is unusually large for a Dutch built steel displacement craft

That weight of the Triqual 65 is also going to do a pretty good job of flattening any chop offshore. Registered as an RCD Category B ‘Offshore’, it’s a boat designed for far more ambitious routes than just coastal cruising.

Triqual 65 specification

LOA: 63ft 3in (19.3m) Beam: 17ft 0in (5.2m) Draught: 5ft 7in (1.7m) Displacement: 40.6 tonnes Fuel capacity: 3,768 litres Engines: Twin Vetus Deutz DT67 231hp diesel engines Location: Lymington Contact: Berthon International

Built: 1991 Price: £385,000

Tony Fleming was the technical director of American Marine in Hong Kong, builder of the Grand Banks line of trawler yachts , before leaving to set up his own company under the Fleming brand name. He and business partner Anton Emmerton worked with an American naval architect, Larry Drake of San Diego, California, to develop an all-new range of pilothouse boats.

The Tung Hwa facility, located near Kaohsiung in Taiwan, was selected to build them. The very first model was a 50-footer, with this 53ft version following from hull number 9 onward.  Intriguingly, the boat was originally designed as a 55-footer but a dam was inserted in the aft end of the mould to shorten the hull to 50ft.

Soon after the dam was pushed back to create the Fleming 53, then in 1990 it was finally removed altogether and the Fleming 55 proper was launched as it had been envisaged all along.

Available in two or three-cabin layouts, this boat is the two-cabin version which creates a much larger owner’s stateroom with vanity desk, large guest port cabin and storage room all on the lower deck forward.

A raised wheelhouse gives great visibility but also direct access to the flybridge for easier movement between decks. Further aft, a large saloon with the galley forward on the same level makes this a great social area. It’s ideal for extended cruising as a couple with a pair of guests, which is exactly what this boat was designed for.

Spacious saloon and galley are ideally set up for liveaboards and long distance cruising

One of the most noticeable things about the decks of the Fleming 53 is just how low the side decks are. Open a door in the high bulwarks and you can step straight aboard – try that with a contemporary Sunseeker or Princess !

Back aft, the cockpit is kept completely clear for freestanding furniture and there’s another stairway up to the flybridge where you’ll find fixed seating, the tender, complete with crane for launching, and the liferaft.

The original owner of this boat specified twin Caterpillar 3208 NA diesel engines that produce 210hp each, giving a cruising speed of 9 knots and maximum speed of approximately 12 knots.

Separate wheelhouse is well suited to night passages and has access up to the flybridge

Those low side decks help keep the centre of gravity low, aiding its legendary seakeeping and minimising rock and roll (of the non-musical variety).

Fleming 53 specification

LOA: 52ft 6in (16.0m) Beam: 16ft 0in (4.9m) Draught: 5ft 0in (1.5m) Displacement: 31 tonnes Fuel capacity: 3,880 litres Engines: Twin twin Caterpillar 3208 NA 210hp diesels Location: Chichester Contact: Ancasta

First published in the September 2021 issue of MBY.

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Live Aboard Boats for sale

1-15 of 1,599

44 ft reliable live aboard,

Fort Myers, Florida

Make Concord

Category Aft Cabin

Length 44.0

Posted Over 1 Month

A lot of boat for the money, she is ready for the keys, solid 1970 concorde, many updates last 2 years, new bottom paint in 2014, 3 motors, one rebuilt 454 date /?, one 350 installed in 2013, one 05 outboard 25 hp kicker that moves her at 5mph alone with lower inside controls, halon system, dingy with motor, 700 plus mile range, 2 a/c units, 2 bath, separate shower, water tank, holding, all cruise equipment included. radio, bumpers, anchors ect. queen, sleeps 8, many extras go with it, 3 good trips this year very roomy and stable, at our dock on the river but must move come take a look and make us an offer,? can move to your location, text for aug. engine video operations, two 70 799 four four 0 one, please call to hear more and schedule a ride on this deal!, ,

Coronado Center Cockpit Sailboat - 40 ft LOA - Great live-aboard

Bainbridge Island, Washington

Make Coronado C35

Great liveaboard sail boat. Many will tell you that it is one of the roomiest boats inside for this size of a boat. Flushdeck design allows approximately 6' headroom throughout, except about 7 ft near the companionway in the main cabin. I've lived aboard for four years, and it was like a mini apartment inside. The center cockpit allows for a nice size stateroom in the back with a full queen size bed (10" thick futon mattress with inner coil springs, is only a year old. I upgraded the anchor to a 70lb CRQ plow, with about 40 ft chain, and then rope. Helps me to sleep well at anchor knowing I won't go anywhere. Also has a smaller dansforth style anchor onboard. Pictures show interior. Rear bed sleeps 2-3 (Queen), front V-birth is roomy and sleeps two just fine, Couch in main cabin folds up into bunks for 2. We have slept 7 aboard very comfortably. 2 more can sleep in the cockpit if you add air mattresses or make cushions to lay on. About the boat: It is older, but in pretty good shape for the age. (Much better than others I looked at when buying). I sail it to the San Juan Islands about once a year for 2 week getaways. I love anchoring out in harbors. Sails are older. Main looks pretty good, but genoa looks older with a small patch that I added last year due to a tear. Probably about due for new one. I have never used the spinnaker, but it is a bright yellow and blue, symmetrical, with 3" pole I bought for $300, and I purchased a sock to use for it. Boat is sloop rigged, but has connections to add a stay, and run it as a cutter rig. I have a stay sail for it, that I believe is Engine was pulled and replaced with an inboard electric by a professional ($4,000) about 5 years ago. it is 36V (6 golf cart batteries). It pushes the boat about 5-6 knots, but at full speed only lasts about an hour. Batteries are 6 years old though, and if replaced with higher volume you might get a lot more. (Or add another bank). It is great for getting in and out of marinas, but for longer trips, I use a 15 horse outboard on the back which is included. I think the impellar went out on it though. I ran it a couple months ago and it wasn't pumping water. I would consider replacing it if I kept it this boat. I have also considered putting a diesel back in for long cruises down to mexico. All plumbing, etc. still seems to be there for a diesel. There is an 8 ft inflatable RIB dinghy that hangs from davits off the back. It has a 6 horse mercury, that is 1-1/2 years old and still under warranty. Great for getting around in bays when at anchor. (I go to the San Juan's a lot). I was going to sell separately, but will include if full price is paid for the boat. Offers below full price won't include the dinghy or smaller outboard. I will sell them separately to recoup some of the difference or keep it for lake fishing. Dodger seems to have been replaced with a frame that is 7" too wide. I had planned on taking a little out of the middle, but please assume that there is no canvas over cockpit. You can have the dodger that I have, but it won't fit as is. Will need to be made smaller. (Material is very good though). Hot water heater was replaced last summer with an 11 gallon stainless (electric) model. Great for multiple showers. I have used it 24 hours after power shut off and still hot. I have a Honda generator that I used to run for the water heater and microwave when at anchor, and to charge the house batteries every couple days. I intend to keep the generator though. I bought it used for under a $1,000 though, so they are easy to come by. Not much in the way of electronics. I have a hand held GPS, hand held (waterproof) VHF, and depth finder up on deck, that are all only a couple of years old. The main VHF is mounted below, but is older, and I never used it, because I was always up above. Refer seems to stop getting cold sometimes and then after I tap on temperature sensors inside, it sometimes starts working again. Haven't figured out if it is a loose wire, or not. There is also a small dorm sized freezer in one of the lockers. It runs off of 110V. Stove is a 2 burner propane unit on gimbals. Has an oven. 2 ea 40 gallon water tanks (80 total). 17 gallon diesel tank in case you put diesel engine back in it. You can buy a used one for a couple thousand. I am currently about 400 miles away, so it is either buy unseen, in which case I will drive there to meet after deposit is made. Or, I will be up in the area the last week of the month to show it if it is not sold yet. Feel free to email to make arrangements to see it. I intend to have it sold this month, even if I have to take less than asking price. Current moorage is $412/mo. It is an awesome small harbor/bay and small marina with great facilities (laundry, rec room available for watching games or entertaining, exercise room, full showers, etc. You can see downtown Seattle skyline from the middle of the harbor. People anchor out there all the time. There is a ferry nearby that goes to downtown Seattle. Or, it is about a 45 minute to 1 hr sail with a 10 knot wind. You can live-aboard if you make arrangements with owner of marina, but he may want a little more money.

Catalina 30 Sailboat for sale or live aboard

Cowichan Bay, British Columbia

Model Catalina 30

Category Sloop Sailboats

Length 30.0

1980 Catalina 30 Sailboat with fixed fin keel in good condition with 18 horsepower Sole Diesel engine, fairly new Main sail except for small tear that's been professionally patched. Extra Main sail, new rigging/conversion of the furling. Beautiful customized Pelican wood doors at cockpit entry.Magic Chef 3 burner propane stove and oven. Canvass dodger on steel frames at the companionway. Navigation equipment includes Horizon VHF marine radio, like new new and never used Standard Horizon CPF 300iColor GPS Chart Plotters/Fish Finder, Saturn 4" compass, and Raymarine Autohelm 3000 Autopilot, and Many more extras. For an additional $800.00 I have a rebuilt with new cable/chain rigging, shackle mooring buoy for sale in Cowichan Bay for boat. Owner lives out of country and has priced the boat for a quick sale. Please call Mike anytime at 951-269-9373

Ocean Yacht 46 Sunbridge *Turn Key live aboard aft cabin*

Merritt Island, Florida

Make Ocean Yacht

Model 46 Sunbridge

Length 52.0

Here is a beautiful 1984 Ocean Yacht 46 Sunbridge. She weighs 40,000lbs dry and has an overall length of 52 feet with a 15.5 foot beam and 18 feet bridge clearance. This is a turn key boat loaded with upgrades and electronics. I've owned this boat for three years and it has been the most reliable boat that I have ever owned. This boat looks and runs beautifully however I just don't have time enough to use it so I'm reluctantly putting her on the market. This is a true live aboard vessel with as much space as a two bedroom apartment. Engine Package She's powered by two 6-71 turbo charged Detroit Diesel's rated at 450 HP each. The boat and engines have 1250 total hours and run perfectly. For perspective, Detroit diesel recommends upper end refreshing between 10,000 and 20,000 hours so these engines have a long way to go before then. The generator is a 7KW diesel Westrebeke which also runs perfectly. Cabin The cabin is beautiful and has three air conditioners for added comfort. There has two staterooms and two bathrooms with sink, head units, and showers. The salon has a full leather couch, love seat, and recliner and all of the window shades can be lowered providing a clear view port, forward, and starboard. The dining area converts into an additional sleeping area and the galley has a new refrigerator, a stove, oven, microwave, trash compactor, dish washer, laundry dryer, sink and waste disposal. The stereo system has speakers in the cabin, patio area, and bridge. All of the upholstery and carpeting is in excellent condition. Deck The patio area has entrances aft, port, and starboard and the custom soft top is completely removable to create a completely open patio deck desired. The bridge has seating for 10 people and has a sun pad just up and behind the helm seats. The bow area also has seat cushions across the entire window area. Electronics This boat has a full array of electronics including Radar, GPS, VHF radio, auto-pilot, depth finder, and a hailer ( two-way loud speaker). Also at the helm are windlass power anchor controls and remote search light controls. Hull The hull is in very nice shape. The gel coat is original and has a nice luster. The teak has been finished with 15 coats of varnish and should be protected for years to come. The bottom paint was refinished 2 years ago and is in good shape. The hull is damage free. All of the photos were taken one day prior to the start of this listing with the exception of the boat on stands which was taken when the bottom paint was being completed. Features Include Two 6-71 Turbo Detroit Diesel 450hp/each Westerbeke 7kw generator Shore Power with motorized power cord retractor Three air conditioners Hydraulic trim tabs Hydraulic steering Remote control search light Windlass power anchor Radar/GPS/VHF/Auto-pilot/Hailer Battery charger Pressure fresh water system Hot water heater Full galley w/sink /microwave/ stove/ refrigerator/trash compactor/dish washer/ laundry dryer. Deck sink with pressure fresh water Bolster captain's chair Fender holders Lock box Two staterooms Two bathrooms w/ head units/sink/ shower Two waste holding tanks with macerator I can also assist with international shipping arrangements! Feel free to Craig at 321-604-5191 with questions.

40' Mainship Live aboard cruiser great for entertaining in St Pete Beach FL

St. Petersburg, Florida

Make Mainship

Model Sedan Bridge

Length 40.0

We are selling our 40' Mainship..which we have had for six years..wonderful memories of cruising and living aboard..but it's time for new adventures..wonderful live aboard..over nighting..day cruses..vacations..entertaining.. Beam is 13.6 wide 3.5' draft..bridge clearance is 17' Powered by twin 454XL Crusaders 310 fuel tank 100 gallon fresh water tank 35 gallon holding tank 6 gallon water heater AC/Heat (2) thirty Amps shore power plugs Large wrap around flybridge..with walk thru Step down into salon with wrap around dinette..which lowers and converted into a bed..flat screen TV and DVD player..love seat lazy boy recliner.. Full size galley with 2 burner stove..microwave..fridge..counter oven..lots of cabinet space.. Vac-u-flushed commode..full shower.. Spacious stateroom..with full storage under bed..flat screen TV and DVD player.. Second stateroom was converted into a closet/storage room..can always make it back to original.. Boat is located at Blind Pass Marina St Pete Beach, Fl.. 5 minute walk to Sunset Beach you can keep the boat here or have it moved...call and make an appointment to see her..you will love her lines...

*NEW PICS* 89' Motor Yacht - Excellent Opportunity, LiveAboard, Commercial Use

Colonial Beach, Virginia

Make Kelly Yachts

MOTIVATED SELLER!!! PRICE DROPPED TO SELL IMMEDIATELY!!! Take the video tour at: http://youtu.be/jiyoAiCDw7A ***OWNER HAS RECENTLY HAD SURVEY DONE, APPRAISAL CAME IN AT OVER $325,000.00**BOAT IS BEING SOLD WELL BELOW MARKET VALUE***A new survey is being completed since completed. Yacht recently performed sea trial and we have logged over 100 miles down the Potomac river from Fort Washington, MD. to Colonial Beach, VA., from Colonial Beach down River for Haul out. Haul out has been completed. The vessel received a bottom inspection including all thru hulls, shafts and props, fresh bottom cleaning and all new zincs. The bottom of the boat was found to be in excellent condition. THIS BOAT IS STILL AT THE HAUL OUT LOCATION WHERE WORK WAS DONE!!! For haul out part of the top section has been removed and will be finished into a lounge deck. Please view pics of the haul out and you will see what has been removed. During operation the vessel performed well at all RPM ranges. All main systems operated well, including bow-thruster, radar, auto-pilot, main engines, genset, etc. Only issues noted were GPS and fuel guages not working properly. This Yacht now for sale at $175,000.00 AS-IS, WHERE-IS at haul out location This vessel was purchased with a fleet of office style house boats. It doesn't quite fit the owners needs so the owner is very motivated to sell. The price is set low with intent of a quick sale. Owner can assist with vessel transportation or relocation almost anywhere. Owner can also assist with modifications or improvements of vessel. This is "Oasis" a 1999 89ft Steel hull Motor Yacht. Originally built in Louisiana. Custom built as a live aboard then converted to a floating office. Berthed in fresh water at the nations capital for the last 14 years, vessel was in the great lakes prior. Powered by two 903 Cummins with only around 150 hours each, a 4 cylinder Cummins powering the hydraulic bow thruster, and a 20K Onan genset to provide all the power you need when underway. Controlled by hydraulic shift and throttle controls and hydraulic double ram steering. Diesel capacity of at least 2200 gallons+, Freshwater capacity of at least 1150 gallons+, 50 gallon hot water heater, Waste capacity of at least 315 gallons+. 27'3" bridge clearance, 5ft draft, 20ft beam, hull speed of 11.5 knots. Engines run as they should with no known problems. 4 cylinder Cummins in bow runs great. Genset runs great and starts easy as it should with only 789 hrs. All electrical works as it should. This vessel is 3 levels with a huge walk in engine room, you can build to suit without a lot of teardown.

89' Motor Yacht - Steel hull - Excellent Opportunity, LiveAboard, Commercial Use

Take the video tour at: http://youtu.be/jiyoAiCDw7A ***OWNER HAS RECENTLY HAD SURVEY DONE, APPRAISAL CAME IN AT OVER $325,000.00**BOAT IS BEING SOLD WELL BELOW MARKET VALUE*** Yacht recently performed sea trial and we have logged over 100 miles down the Potomac river from Fort Washington, MD. to Colonial Beach, VA., from Colonial Beach down River for Haul out. For haul out the vessel recieved a bottom inspection including all thru hulls, shafts and props, fresh bottom cleaning and paint, all new zincs. During operation the vessel performed well at all RPM ranges. All main systems operated well, including bow-thruster, radar, auto-pilot, main engines, genset, etc. Only issues noted were GPS and fuel guages not working properly. This Yacht now for sale at $175,000.00 AS-IS, WHERE-IS This vessel was purchased with a fleet of office style house boats. It doesn't quite fit the owners needs so the owner is very motivated to sell. The price is set low with intent of a quick sale. Owner can assist with vessel transportation or relocation almost anywhere. Owner can also assist with modifications or improvements of vessel. This is "Oasis" a 1999 89ft Steel hull Motor Yacht. Originally built in Louisiana. Custom built as a live aboard then converted to a floating office. Berthed in fresh water at the nations capital for the last 14 years, vessel was in the great lakes prior. Powered by two 903 Cummins with only around 150 hours each, a 4 cylinder Cummins powering the hydraulic bow thruster, and a 20K Onan genset to provide all the power you need when underway. Controlled by hydraulic shift and throttle controls and hydraulic double ram steering. Diesel capacity of at least 2200 gallons+, Freshwater capacity of at least 1150 gallons+, 50 gallon hot water heater, Waste capacity of at least 315 gallons+. 27'3" bridge clearance, 5ft draft, 20ft beam, hull speed of 11.5 knots. Engines run as they should with no known problems. 4 cylinder Cummins in bow runs great. Genset runs great and starts easy as it should with only 789 hrs. All electrical works as it should. This vessel is 3 levels with a huge walk in engine room, you can build to suit without a lot of teardown.

Cruiser, Yacht, Monk, WW2, Cedar, live-aboard, project, coast guard patrol boat

Anacortes, Washington

Make Ed Monk, Sr.

Model US Coast Guard

Cruiser, Yacht, Monk, WW2, Cedar, live-aboard, project, coast guard patrol boat1944 coast guard cruiser one of 55 (designed by Monk?) built to patrol Puget Sound primarily for submarines and one of a handful in existence today. At about 50' length overall and 16' beam, it is big enough to live on comfortably but small enough to cruise and get good moorage. Its Port Orford Cedar planked hull on white oak frames is solid and does not leak. In the 70's or so Seawolf was refitted as a charter yacht, cruising from Puget Sound to Alaska, but all of the original military equipment and lines remain for a great "steam-punk" look. Starting at the bow, there is a chain locker, then a porcelain head with porcelain sink and original door, accessible through the captain's berth, which will sleep two (that like each-other) comfortably, in addition to, two hang-up closets, 6 large drawers, many shelves for storage, a curved beam ceiling, ceiling hatch and 4 portals windows. Up 3 steps to the helm, which has a fold down map/charts desk, a sliding outside door on each side, large windshield and side-glass. Floor access hatches to engines and a scuttle to the fly-bridge and a curved beam ceiling. Down 3 steps to a large galley featuring the original diesel cook-stove, military issue GE fridge, double booth and large dining table, 4 portal windows and two fold out windows, curved beam ceiling, walk in pantry with porcelain sink, stainless steel countertop and double bowl sink, drawers, cabinets and under sink storage. Just off the galley is the aft berth, with a folding bunk arrangement, converting easily to either a couch or two bunk-beds, spacious, cool closets and cabinet storage, a portal and opening window, a separate head, equipped with sink, cabinet space and roomy shower, complete with the continued curved beam ceilings. Just off the aft berth, up a couple steps and out the wood panel door, with original brass hardware, to a semi-enclosed observation deck, (aft) open on 3 sides with a full roof and enclosed half wall below and beam ceiling. The fly bridge is also semi-enclosed with full windshield, side windows and open in the back with a large open upper observation deck. There is also a nice for deck with exposed frames and cool woodwork plus 4 large built in deck boxes. The boat has had a lot of TLC paintwork done on the exterior but is not finished. The twin engines are Chrysler Hemi's but they along with the rest of the machinery have been wet during a partial swamping and neglected, so plan on it needing the works to cruise again.This is a big project but it is also very sound, extremely unique and well worth effort. It would not take much to make a fun live-aboard or a get-away cabin (floating or on the hard).

1975 47Ft Olympic Adventure Off-Shore Sailing Ketch-Live-aboard

Key West, Florida

Make Olympic

Model Adventure 47

Length 47ft

Emmanuel is an Olympic adventure 47ft off-shore cruising ketch and a great live-aboard. She is very roomy with a 14ft 3in beam and she is a sea kindly vessel with an extremely strong hull.Auto-pilot, radar, and a new Garmin Chart-plotter, Much extra cruising equipment.

1986 Gulfstar 49' ft. Motor Yacht - All new running gear - Live-aboard ready!

Boston, Massachusetts

Make Gulfstar

Length 49.0

All new running gear, bottom paint and some fiberglass work done in Summer of 2013...$23,000 worth!!! We are pleased to present "Penny Benjamin", a 1986 49' Gulfstar Motor Yacht. With a large salon and galley, three staterooms, and three heads, she is an excellent choice for a full time live-aboard. Whether you are looking for a live-aboard, a cruising motoryacht or just a condo on the water this 49' Gulfstar has what you need to be comfortable and ready to go. Her recent interior and exterior attention also makes her ready for a sea trial and your new memories. Running gear serviced and props, shafts and cutlass bearings replaced in 2013Bottom Painted in 2013New IsinglassPreferred Cat 3208's with 2500 Hours In Walk-In Engine RoomTotal Power: 750 HPCruising Speed: 15 knots @ 1800 RPM / Maximum Speed: 18 knots20KW Generator For Lots of Power2447 hours on starboard engine; 3065 hours on port engine.Minimum Draft: 3 ft 10 in / Maximum Draft: 4 ft 0 inDry Weight: 42,000 lbs (21 tons)Tanks - Fresh Water Tanks: 1 Plastic (375 Gallons) - Fuel Tanks: 1 Aluminum (675 Gallons) - Holding Tanks: 1 Plastic (50 Gallons) Accommodations - Number of double berths: 3 - Number of cabins: 3 - Number of heads: 3 Electronics - Furuno 48 mile radar - Furuno GPS navigator - Cetec Benmar Autopilot - Horizon depth finder - Standard VHF radio - Navigation center - GPS - Plotter - Compass - 42" TV in salon / 26" LED in Master Stateroom - CD player / Receiver / Speaker system - VCR / DVD player Galley - Tappan electric 4 burner stove - Tappan Microwave Oven / Convection Oven Combo - Single stainless steel sink - Maytag full size fridge/freezer - GE toaster Electical - Raritan 20 gallon hot water heater - 48,000 BTU Marine reverse-cycle Heating / Air Conditioning - Heart Interface Freedom 2500 Watt inverter - 130 amp 12 volt battery charger - Pro Mariner 21-3 24 volt battery charger for bow thruster - Glendenning Cable Master 50 amp inlet - GFI outlets throughout - Splendide Washer/dryer combo Mechanical - Caterpillar 3208 diesels - 2001 Onan 20kw diesel generator in sound shield with 190 hrs - Twin disc tranmissions - Vetus 24 volt bow thruster - Glendenning engine synchronizers - Shafts, Props, and Cutlass Bearings were replaced, fall of 2013 at a cost of $23,000. Deck - Complete enclosure - Bimini Top - New Isinglass - 30 kilo Claw anchor with 250' 5/16" chain - Extra fortress FX 37 - Electric windlass She is well maintained and ready to cruise. Come see her flybridge, aft deck, walk-in engine room, and large salon and galley.

Stunning little Ericson 30+ blue water live aboard sloop - Time capsule!

Westport, Connecticut

Make Ericson

Length 33.0

Autohelm w/ wireless remote. Bow mounted high resolution wireless video camera (works w/ your iphone/android). Garmin g2 vision compatible chartplotter/gps with auto guidance creation and redundant hand held battery backup (3 batteries). Engel 27 quart fridge/freezer. Engel 15 quart fridge/freezer. 60 quart icebox in galley. 20 Quart icebox in cockpit. Yamaha 2000watt generator. 60 watt solar. Inverter. Hot water heater. Shower. Microwave. Indoor natural gas stove and oven. Outdoor propane grill and range. Kenwood Optical Head w/ pandora Iphone Siriusxm and hard drive compatibility (plug anything in and it will find the music) Kenwood low distortion high power amplifier outdoor subwoofers and mid range indoor bose acoustimass 2 double cubes. New Genoa from Quantum... all pumps replaced within 24 months secondary bilge last month. Kind of a dream come true for the single handed sailor looking to impress his date in heavy wind. Or, lounge downstairs with your gps, ipad and autohelm remote.

1998 Silverton 372/392 Motoryacht, Live Aboard, 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath, Low Hours!

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Make Silverton

Model 372/392 Sidewalk Edition

Length 39.0

1998 Silverton 372/392 MOTOR YACHT, If you are looking for an affordable, max volume, you will find much to love in the Silverton 372/392 MY. The salon dimensions are truly expansive for a boat this size. The galley is well-laid out with ample storage, a comfortable and spacious dinette and plenty of space to entertain or cook with friends and family. there are two staterooms with comfortable berths, two heads with shower stalls and plenty of locker space. Silverton's hull design, deep modified V provides a comfortable ride when conditions are less than ideal. These boats take the water very well. Whether cruising to your favorite destinations or just marina hopping with the family, . This is a great opportunity and a lot of boat and equipment for the money.I describe the boat as a 372/392 because both models are exactly the same length. Although the photos do not show it, we have the black screen for the front windshield. It was off at this time for the buffing and waxing. If you are in the market for an inexpensive family yacht that can sleep 8 comfortably and is built as a family cruiser, than this should be on your short list.This vessel includes:Full Galley with Full stand up refrigerator3 burner electric stove topOven (Princess brand)Microwave / coffee maker in galleySleeper sofa in salonConvertible Dinette in galley/ salon spaceEnormous salon area2 electric heads, one forward, one aft ( in master)Large Swim platform, with access ladder to aft deck3 independent zones AC/ heat2 private cabins; (one forward, one aft)Stainless Steel Magma Propane Grill Electronics include:Chart plotter Radar GPS VHF w/ external antennaBow mounted Spot light with remote control on bridgeWindlass with bridge controls 1998 Silverton 372 Motor Yacht. Powered with twin 502 Crusaders. We just had her put back in the water after having the whole boat buffed and waxed, bottom scraped inspected and painted, props refurbished, zincs replaced and new batteries installed. Boat comes with Generator, air conditioning, hot water heater, full galley, two private state rooms, two marine heads with showers, Gps, radar, compass, VHF radio, stereo, ice maker, shore power, television, extremely large main salon, Fly Bridge, windlass, bow cushion and extended swim platform. This boat is in great condition and runs perfect. Has also recently had the generator refurbished. Boat is located on Intracoastal waterway in Little River South Carolina. Last summer we took her on a 12 day trip down to Daytona Beach and back. Made most of the trip about 25 miles off the coast. Ran great! We also have a new 13 ft hard bottom inflatable West Marine dingy and new 9.9 Mercury. These could be included dependent upon what the final deal price would be. This boat would make an excellent live aboard!

1994 Skipperliner Yacht 56ft Steel Hull Luxury Live Aboard Houseboat, 230 Hours!

Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota

Make Skipperliner

Model Yacht

Category Houseboats

Length 56.0

Best Offer Available1994 Skipperliner Yacht Top Line InformationYear:1994VIN:X2505Make:SkipperlinerStock:MB161Model:YachtCondition:Pre-OwnedHull:SteelLength:56 ftExterior:WhiteInterior:TanEngine:Mercury Mercruiser Twin inboard/outboard 5.7L 350 HPHours:230Additional Photos* * * Click Photos to Enlarge * * ** * * Click Photos to Enlarge * * *Phone: 8778539037Description 1994 Skipperliner 56ft Steel Hull Yacht Luxury live aboard houseboat; 3 berths, fully furnished (updated); Twin 350 Mercruiser 7.4L I/O engines; 12.5 KW Kohler Gen.; 200 gallon gas tanks; Cetek Auto Pilot; Mathers Micro-Commanders; 8" steel keel; Dual control stations; GPS; Full instrumentation; Power davits; Swim Platform; New canvas; Bimini top; New exterior carpeting; Interior cork floors; Cellular shades; Dual water system; New Pioneer stereo and speakers; TVs in salon and master stateroom; Marine Radio; New Washer and Dryer; 2 Heads; Trash compactor; New fixtures in kitchen and heads; 60KBTU propane furnace; Dual Cruisair reverse cycle AC; Power Windlass; Bow pulpit; Searchlight, full size refrigerator; wet bar. Boat moored at Castaways Marina, Slip #31- 6140 Doffing Avenue, Inver Grove Heights. For sale and located in Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota 55076 At our company we work very hard to accurately describe our vehicles through text descriptions and elaborate photos. When you purchase a pre-owned vehicle it is not a new vehicle. Any used vehicle can have normal wear and blemishes. Before placing a bid please read the descriptions thoroughly and view all pictures. Boat InformationSpecificationsBeam:15 ftEngineFuel Type:Hours:Gas230TrailerYear:0 Included Standard EquipmentInteriorInterior in very good conditionExteriorExterior in very good conditionBoatAir ConditioningBimini TopGPSGeneratorHeating SystemMicrowaveRefrigeratorStereoTVToilet Hours of Operation Vehicle Values Inspections INSPECTIONS: Nationwide Inspections, Inc. is a full service property inspection company providing a wide variety of technical INSPECTIONS, EVALUATIONS, INVESTIGATIONS, APPRAISALS AND EXPERT WITNESS SERVICES “NATIONWIDE”. Our menu of services includes, but is not limited to; automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, marine vessels, generators, RV’s, ATV’s and bicycles. NATIONWIDE will provide you with the level of expertise needed from our network of over 3800 inspectors, including ASE CERTIFIED AND MASTER CERTIFIED technicians, licensed appraisers, investigators and engineers throughout the nation. Call us at 1-800-849-3005 and let us exceed your expectations. Warranty WARRANTY HEADQUARTERS: We believe that customers make the best decisions when they are provided with good information in a timely fashion. We do not believe that you should be pressured into making a purchase. We won't try to get your business by creating a false sense of urgency or by bringin up a "special to get you to buy." what we will do is answer your questions and help you select the right warranty for you. For instance, if you mileage is getting close to a cut-off for a lower-priced warranty, we believe you should know. http://warrantyheadquarters.com/request_quote.php Financing Capital One Auto Finance, America's largest online vehicle lender, provides vehicle loans to customers directly via the Internet, as well as through dealerships nationwide. Applying online is safe and easy, and it takes just minutes to get a response. Once approved, qualified customers receive a no-obligation Blank Check, which works like a personal check and can be used to buy a new or used car or motorcycle, refinance or even buy out a lease. Specialty Auto Financing J. J. BEST BANC & CO., being the largest Automobile Lender of it's type in the country, is recognized by Antique, Classic, Exotic, Muscle, Hot Rod and Sports car enthusiasts and dealers as the leader in the Classic Car automobile finance industry. Offering long terms and low rates, financing is available for most model cars ranging from 1900 to today. With the most knowledgeable staff available, and loan approvals as fast as 5 minutes J. J. BEST BANC & CO. will help you drive the dream. Vehicle & Equipment Financing Specialists Highway & Construction Equipment Financing made easy with US Financial. We specialize in financing the hard working American companies who make this country work, those workers in the construction, agriculture, trucking, machine tool, and commercial trades. If you need to finance heavy equipment, dump trucks, machine tools, or trucks you have come to the right place. Call 888-595-4422 TermsPayment Types:Certified Funds and Institutional FinancingFees: TERMS OF SALE:By clicking the Buy It Now Button, or by submitting an offer you agree to the following terms. There is a required non refundable $500 deposit with hitting the buy it now button.1. The buyer is to contact the seller within 24 hours to discuss payment and transportation details or contact us for the seller contact information at 877-853-9037.2. Payment is made directly to the seller. We recommend to our sellers to accept cash in person or a bank wire.3. The seller must receive payment in full within 7 days.4. 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Pacemaker 40ft Motor Yacht Great Live-Aboard or Weekend Condo on the Water

Coronado, California

Make Pacemaker

Model Motor Yacht

Live Aboard Motor Yacht or weekend Condo on the water located in sunny San Diego... This is a 40 ft Aft Cabin Motor Yacht. 64,500 OBO. Very clean, no pets, non-smokers. Entering the vessel from port side to command bridge, sundeck configuration. The deck is spacious and accommodating. There are two marine chairs, a custom BBQ, teak hand rails and a large bench seat for the helm station. Port side is the companion way to the salon/galley. New carpet, new appliances, new granite counter tops, custom pantry and a comfortable living spaces is apparent immediately. Large opening windows supply great light to this area, and ample ventilation. Going forward is the v-berth, with double v bunk, hatch, port lights and in suite head and sink counter, Aft from the salon down a few steps is the custom master. This completed refitted cabin features a full, vented, closed cell foam berth. Custom drawers under add to storage. Next to the berth is the hanging wardrobe locker. The is a n additional locker for hanging garments as well as extra storage in the heed. New vacu-flush head This cabin is clean, neat and an excellent use of space and very tastefully done Specs: 40' Pacemaker Motor Yacht •Year: 1973 •Current Price: US$ 64,500 •Located in San Diego, CA •Hull Material: Fiberglass •Engine/Fuel Type: Diesel •YW# show contact info Additional Specs, Equipment and Information: Dimensions LOA: 40 ft 0 in Beam: 13 ft 11 in Length on Deck: 39 ft 11 in Minimum Draft: 2 ft 11 in Displacement: 24000 lbs Engines Cruising Speed: 10 knots Range: 150 nm Tanks Fresh Water Tanks: 1 (82 Gallons) Fuel Tanks: 2 (260 Gallons) Electronics Compass VHF Navigation center Depthsounder Inside Equipment Electric bilge pump Battery charger Heating Electric head Hot water Manual bilge pump Marine head Refrigerator Microwave oven Electrical Equipment Shore power inlet Outside Equipment/Extras Gangway Accommodations Galley New Stainless steel refrigerator New Granite Counter tops New stainless steel sink updated fresh water system Stove and oven with microwave. Custom pantry built in solid mahogany tremendous storage and light Coffee maker, small appliances and flatwear Engine Room Twin Detroit 671 natural diesel engines with 650 hours ( running perfect) Onan 6 KW diesel Generator (inoperative) New 12 volt Batteries 2 27series deep cycle 1 4D deep cycle house 2 steel diesel fuel tanks 260 gallons total 1 stainless water tank 82 gallon Master Battery switch copper hard wiring twin Bronze propellers 26"x 26" 1 3/8 " stainless steel tail shaft Navigation Equipment Compass Spherical 4" Mounted at helm Navigation Lights coast guard approved VHF Radio telephone Standard Horizon Complete engine gauge package Safety gear Fire Extinguishers (3) Personal flotation devices 9 total Distress signal kit and flares Disclaimer... We offer the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.

1996 Cruisers aft cabin motor yacht 38ft live aboard CHEAP

Crystal River, Florida

ASKING 42K OBO all REASONABLE Offers considered. This boat is mechanically and structurally sound see pictures for cosmetic appearance. too many details to list. selling due to family medical problems. Won't last long at this price. don't miss out.NADA Market value 57k cash/cashiers only. No trades. Email or text between 8 and 8 no phone calls please. Year: 1996 Use: Fresh Water Make: cruisers motoryacht Engine Type: gasoline Model: 3650 Engine Make: Volvo Engine Type: cruiser Engine Model: penta Length (feet): 40 Primary Fuel Type: Gas Beam (feet): 13.8 Fuel Capacity: Over 200 Gallons Hull Material: Fiberglass For Sale By: Private Seller She has a contemporary styling, a surprisingly spacious bright interior with over 6 feet in head room kept in fresh water for the last 7 yrs. Sleeps 6 without having to break out the sleeping bags. interior features 2 cabins with queen berths, aft cabin with ensuite head inc tub/shower combo 3rd berth from converted dinette 2 heads w/ Vacuflush L shaped couch in main salon fully equipped galley w/ microwave, stove and updated fridge/freezer combo(fridge operates on both shore power and battery) 16k Cruisair ac/heat unit original owners manuals am/FM/cd radio w/ speaker interior and exterior mechanical features 2 - 7.4Volvo penta gas motors max speed 23 knots, cruising speed 19 knots with 960 hours 6.5kw Kholer generator with 209 hours Halon engine room fire suppressor system 3 position battery charger w/ isolator full electronics inc Furuno radar w/ chartplotter and GPS, VHF radio , depth finder exterior features aft deck hard top aft deck wet bar w/ sink and ice maker compete eyes n glass extended swim platform w/ boarding ladder and rinse down shower safety rail all around electric windlass w/all chain & anchor Aluminum dock side boarding steps w/ hand rail will mount on either side of boat NADA selling price of $57k. BARGAIN CHEAP This boat is mechanically and structurally sound. selling due to family medical problems. Come see today don't miss this great deal.

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13 Dirt-Cheap Liveaboard Sailboats (That Are Actually Good)

When it comes to selecting a dirt-cheap liveaboard sailboat, you don't have to compromise on quality. There are many classic models and a few hidden gems that provide comfort, space, and sailing capabilities at a very affordable price. In this article, you'll find a list of classic liveaboard sailboats, as well as a few original finds that can fit your budget.

Liveaboard sailboats that are cheap but actually good include Westsail 32, Alberg 30, Tayana 37, Catalina 30, Ericson 35, Albin Vega 27, Bristol 32, Morgan 323, Contessa 32, Pearson 365, Hunter 31, Cal 34, and Tartan 30. The prices of these boats range from $5,000 to $50,000 or more.

Living aboard a sailboat on a budget doesn't mean you have to settle for less. These affordable boats can still provide the comfort and performance you're looking for. We've included some models that you can find on Craigslist.

• These budget-friendly liveaboard sailboats offer a great combination of affordability, performance, and comfort, making them ideal choices for living the sailing dream.
• Some classic models that provide you with enough room to move around and store your belongings include the Alberg 30 and the Tayana 37.
• Classic models such as the Westsail 32, Alberg 30, Tayana 37, Catalina 30, Ericson 35, and Albin Vega 27 are known for their seaworthiness and versatility.
• The cheaper the boat, the more likely you'll need to invest in repairs and spare parts over the years. This is where some more obscure finds can surprise you, such as the Contessa 32 and the Cal 34, which offer easy maintenance and relatively cheap spare parts.

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13 cheapest liveaboard sailboats that are good, key features of a good liveaboard sailboat, classic liveaboard sailboat models, affordable liveaboard sailboats.

When looking for an affordable yet reliable liveaboard sailboat , there are several important features to consider. These can greatly affect your overall experience and satisfaction with your chosen boat.

Layout and space : On a liveaboard sailboat, space and layout are crucial. You'll want a boat that offers efficient use of space, a comfortable living area, a functional galley, and adequate storage. Generally, 25 to 35 feet in length is the ideal size range for a liveaboard.

Sailing performance : Even if you plan to live aboard primarily , sailing performance should still be a priority. Consider its ability to handle light winds, heavy winds, and everything in between. Your boat should be able to handle various sea conditions and be easily maneuvered. It should be versatile enough for various wind conditions and sea states.

Hull design : The hull design of your sailboat will affect its stability and performance in the water. Look for a design that offers a good balance between comfort, safety, and speed. A full-keel or modified full-keel design provides stability and tracking in rough seas, while a fin keel offers better maneuverability in tight spaces like harbors and marinas.

Maintenance and construction : Pay attention to the boat's construction materials and quality. Fiberglass and aluminum are popular choices due to their durability and low maintenance requirements. Wooden boats tend to be more affordable but may require more maintenance and care.

In this section, we will discuss some classic liveaboard sailboat models that are known for their affordability, functionality, and reliability. These boats have stood the test of time and are excellent choices, especially for novices.

Westsail 32 is known as "the cruiser that launched the cruising boom"

The Westsail 32 is a sturdy, reliable, and comfortable liveaboard option for those seeking a classic, bluewater cruising boat. Designed by William Crealock, it boasts heavy construction, a full keel, a roomy interior, and seaworthy capabilities. With many of these boats available on the market, you can find a Westsail 32 in good condition at affordable prices.

Alberg 30 is a classic full-keel cruiser known for its seaworthy design

The Alberg 30 is a classic design from the 1960s, created by Carl Alberg, and built by Whitby Boat Works in Canada. This boat is known for being easy to sail and is a perfect choice for new liveaboards. The Alberg 30 has a simple layout, adequate living space, and enough storage to make it a suitable option for long-term living, all while keeping to a budget.

Tayana 37 is known for its seaworthiness and durability

Designed by Robert Perry and built in Taiwan, the Tayana 37 is a popular and capable bluewater cruiser. This well-built classic boat is known for its comfort, safety, and ease of handling when sailing long distances. The Tayana 37 offers plenty of space and storage, making it a delightfully practical liveaboard choice, even for small families or couples.

Catalina 30 is one of the most popular sailboats of all time

The Catalina 30 is one of the most popular sailboats in its size range and has a reputation for being an incredibly spacious boat, given its 30-foot length. Designed by Frank Butler, the Catalina 30 is known for its roomy interior and user-friendly layout, making it a fantastic option for liveaboard enthusiasts. The affordability and availability of the Catalina 30 also make it a top choice among sailors. It’s a tried-and-true option for liveaboard enthusiasts.

Ericson 35 has solid build quality

For those looking for a slightly larger liveaboard sailboat, the Ericson 35 is an excellent option. Designed by Bruce King and built by Ericson Yachts, it is praised for its solid build quality and comfortable accommodations. The practical layout and generous storage space make the boat a desirable choice for those looking to live aboard on a budget .

Albin Vega 27 is a proven ocean cruiser

The Albin Vega 27 is a smaller liveaboard option for those who prioritize simplicity and affordability. Designed by Per Brohäll and built in Sweden, the Albin Vega 27 is a proven ocean cruiser with a surprising amount of space for a boat of its size. If you're looking for an affordable liveaboard sailboat with a compact yet functional layout, the Albin Vega 27 might be the perfect fit for you.

In your quest for a dirt-cheap liveaboard sailboat that's actually good, there are some finds worth considering. Let's dive into these affordable gems that were built for liveaboard life and sailing.

Bristol 32 is known for its classic design and solid construction

The Bristol 32 is a classic liveaboard sailboat with a solid reputation for its sturdy construction and excellent sailing performance. Designed by Ted Hood, this boat is known for its comfortable living spaces and adequate storage. A used Bristol 32 can be found at a reasonable price, making it perfect for those with a tight budget.

Morgan 323 provides stability and safety

Next is the Morgan 323, which offers a great deal of interior space for a 32-foot sailboat. The well-designed layout ensures you have all the necessary amenities for living aboard while maintaining high sailing performance. Equipped with a full keel and skeg-hung rudder, the Morgan 323 provides stability and safety while underway.

Contessa 32 has a solid reputation for being safe, seaworthy, and comfortable

A British classic, the Contessa 32 is a small yet capable liveaboard sailboat , perfect for a couple or solo sailor. With its sleek lines, excellent performance, and well-built hull, the Contessa 32 is a go-to choice for many budget-conscious sailors. It's a rugged, seaworthy vessel that can handle various weather conditions with ease.

Pearson 365 is suitable for long-term and weekend cruises

The Pearson 365 is another popular liveaboard sailboat, known for its spacious interior, comfortable accommodations, and reasonable price. With a roomy cockpit, plenty of storage, and a versatile sail plan, the Pearson 365 is well-suited for both long-term liveaboards and weekend cruisers.

Hunter 31 is well-rounded and spacious

Affordable and easy to find, the Hunter 31 is a popular choice for budget-conscious sailors searching for a suitable liveaboard. With its beamy hull, the Hunter 31 boasts a spacious and functional interior. While not a traditional bluewater cruiser, the Hunter 31 can hold its own in coastal and nearshore environments.

Cal 34 offers solid sailing performance

Another solid liveaboard option is the Cal 34. This well-designed sailboat has earned a reputation for its quality construction and comfortable living spaces. The Cal 34 strikes a suitable balance between performance and affordability, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious sailors.

Tartan 30 has enough space for living aboard

Last but not least is the Tartan 30. This sturdy sailboat is known for its seakeeping abilities and high-quality construction. The Tartan 30 provides adequate space for living aboard while maintaining its performance capabilities. Finding a used Tartan 30 at a great price is an excellent opportunity to secure an affordable, comfortable liveaboard.

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Choosing the right liveaboard boat

We’ve received many inquiries from our blog about choosing the right liveaboard boat. Folks have many questions ranging from style of boat, length of boat and horsepower to interior layout and aesthetics. I decided to post our experience with choosing Blue Turtle and what we initially looked for versus what we might have done differently today. First though, I want to point out that we are liveaboard cruisers, which mean we liveaboard our boat in a marina, but we also cruise places rather frequently (at least once a month). This post is about liveaboard boats that are fit for cruising. If you want to liveaboard but never plan to leave the dock, you can really choose any type of boat that suits your space and aesthetic needs. Houseboats would be the way to go as they offer the most space, but they are more fit for lake cruising than coastal cruising.

25 thoughts on “Choosing the right liveaboard boat”

i wont to thank you for all that info it helps to find a right boat for people that do not know boats just starting out ….

Thanks Royal. We didn’t know much starting out even though we had the advantage of our parents living aboard. We hope this write up is useful to those starting out.

especially when the boat mentioned starts out at 500K!

Many thanks for taking the time to write this! Very helpful. My wife and I might be looking for a liveaboard in FL in a few years.

Hope this post helps a little bit. Please let us know if you have any questions. We’ll be glad to answer them 🙂

Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge and experiences. You answered all my questions and have probably saved me a lot of time and headaches. Truly appreciated!

So glad this helps! Let us know if you have any more questions.

recently found your blog and FB. thank You for the information you are supplying us newbee’s A little more detail would be very helpful when you post, as we are making the leap into a trawler/cruiser. this coming spring. We’ve been reading, looking at thousands of boats online and in person, took my boating course last summer and even went out on lake erie a few times. Yes we are new to boats no one we know owns one. Maybe I’m post a few questions each day lol you speak about you needed a trawler to cruise the keys main issue is fuel. how much fuel do you use and what is the distance. We are looking in your area as a beginning base and love the keys. Also we have a dog who does he/she handle long trips and how to you allow him to go to the bathroom? aa big litter box? Are you considering solar to run you boats dc I know your fridge is AC . If you break down engine wise do you have a kicker motor onboard ? thanks for today Giligan

Sorry for the late reply Giligan but I’ll post our answers in case it helps someone else.

“You speak about you needed a trawler to cruise the keys main issue is fuel.” Actually you can cruise the Keys in a sailboat or trawler. We only mention that when cruising to the Dry Tortugas, it’s nice to have a trawler for the extra fuel it requires to visit dive and fishing spots once you get there. Many sailboats and smaller boats cruise there but they would have to carry extra fuel in order to do any additional dive/fishing cruising once you are there since there is no fuel available in the Dry Tortugas.

“Also we have a dog who does he/she handle long trips and how to you allow him to go to the bathroom? a big litter box?” We trained our dog as a puppy to go on a potty patch. See our article “Living aboard with a boat dog” ( https://blueturtlecruising.com/living-aboard-with-boat-dog/ ).

“Are you considering solar to run you boats dc I know your fridge is AC?” No, we have an invert system which runs our fridge while away from the dock. The generator then charges to the inverter batteries.

“If you break down engine wise do you have a kicker motor onboard?” No we do not. Randy has become quite the mechanic at troubleshooting most engine issues if we break down. In rare cases he can’t solve it or we don’t have a part, there’s always Sea Tow. We’ve only been towed 2 times in almost 8 years and the issue was fuel, not the engine. Even if we had 2 engines we still would have had the same issue.

Hope this helps!

Loved reading about your boat! That’s what we’re planning to do

Thanks Loretta! Hope we can provide some useful info to you from time to time. If you have any questions feel free to ask.

We’almost ready to make the jump. Sold the Rentals, House is for sale, we both had great boss’s who are friends so they laid us off so we can collect unemployment (great friends) , Put in a bid for a GB 36 keeping our fingers crossed…. See you hopefully at the Fest

I agree that you would want to consider what type of boat you have when choosing a motor. It would be good to consider if it is a sail or a motorboat as well. My brother wants to get a boat, so he’ll have to consider the type before he buys it.

Put me on your mailing list.

I have been told by y sailing friends that trawlers roll like crazy offshore and everybody gets sick. What is it like offshore? Thanks.

It’s no different than any boat in big seas. Otherwise our trawler is very stable in normal seas and no one has been sick in the six years cruising (knocks on wood).

Our biggest challenge right now is deciding where to liveaboard! Thinking North Carolina or Alabama but really have no clue how to decide. I do know we will choose a houseboat. Any tips on picking a location?

I would research marinas in areas of interest and call to get rates, availability, etc. Look for areas that have close proximity to shopping, parks, and other areas of interest. You could also schedule a trip to visit a few favorite spots to check out the marinas and get a feel for the community. Hope this helps.

Kim, thank you for being available, and helpful. I’ve been boating all my life, Ohio and Pensacola. 7 knot maximum, always, makes me nervous. Long crossings, storms, emergencies included. Have you wished you could go faster very often? Benetau’s swift trawler can supposedly do both well, but maybe not as economically. Any thoughts? Thank you, Steve

A swift trawler would be the best of both worlds but I imagine fuel costs would be higher. If your budget allows for purchasing one and the additional fuel that would be ideal. We’ve only been in a few storms and have been ok. We normally wouldn’t cruise without an ideal weather window and the afternoon showers that pop up in the afternoon around here are usually pretty quick. I think it really boils down to your budget and comfort level in the end.

Thanks for the info!

I would like to be added to your mailing list please.

You mentioned not liking the ising glass in Florida… are you saying you prefer to not have any enclosure on the fly deck? What if it rains (as it does a lot in Florida) when traveling? I thought it was a must-have… but now learning to pay attention where the people are from when taking any advice. 😉

In Florida, you can pretty much predict the afternoon showers. We have a lower helm so if we run into an afternoon thunderstorm while cruising, Randy steers from inside below on the lower helm. The ising glass, to us, ended up being a very costly ($7,000 to replace new) thing that we didn’t really need. It also constantly got battered and ripped with every tropical storm or hurricane so we decided to remove it. We realized cruising to the Keys in especially calm water that it blocks a lot of the breeze you could get without it.

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What it's like to live on a boat in Boston during the winter

By Mike Sullivan

Updated on: January 18, 2024 / 7:04 AM EST / CBS Boston

BOSTON - With sky high rent in Boston, some people are resorting to living on boats all year long. They are part of what is called a liveaboard community. There are a few in the city, including several in Charlestown. This way of life means braving the winters to save a buck.

"This is living the life really," laughs Larry Andersen, a liveaboard resident in Charlestown for the last eight years. "You just have to not have 30 pairs of shoes."

You will often find Andersen buried in cables with his eyes affixed to a screen. He is a video editor by trade, and he has his boat fitted with an editing suite that allows him to work on anything from ad content to music videos.

"I changed my Instagram to Larry lives on a boat. I think it's more popular just for that," jokes Andersen. "In the summer, I am on the outer dock, so I can sail until my heart's content."

His boat is docked at Constitution Marina along with roughly 50 others. Together they create a quirky community akin to an aquatic Cheers where everybody knows your name.

They even share cold nights at a nearby hotel pool. "Every Friday night they turn it up to hot tub level and everyone strolls up there with beer and wine," says Andersen.

The same hotel offers discounted rooms for rent in case of a heavy storm; however, Andersen says he has only had to do it three times since he has lived here. In the winter, the marina strings the boats together for safety. It also allows Larry a chance to stay connected electronically.

"I am plugged into shore power from a cable there plugged into the dock," explains Andersen pointing to cables running out of the windows of the boat. He also has high-speed Wi-Fi. "Everyone also assumes that I am freezing, and it really is just a couple space heaters for a room as big as someone's kitchen."

During the colder months, the boats look like floating plastic bubbles. The exteriors are shrink wrapped to create an exterior space with the exterior of the boat. The plastic wrap creates a greenhouse effect that can keep the deck of the boat in the 70s during the day.

"It's really fun creating the frame and figuring out how you want to lay it out," said Andersen.

He does the wrapping himself to save on cash. Financial freedom is a key reason for this lifestyle. Renters here pay by the foot. At 37-feet, his spot costs on average $1000 a month for the year. He pays more in the summer and less in the winter. His slip even comes with a parking space.

"A friend of mine, Isaac who lives at the marina also, has this souped-up dingy that he has, and he commutes to East Boston from his boat. He even does it in the Winter," said Andersen.

It's cheap way to live as long as you can minimize life itself.

"When I first got on here, I got a ukulele. I was like that's as big of an instrument that I can have," said Andersen, who has since upgraded to a guitar.

"I have two closets about this wide. One holds all of the shirts that I ever wear for a season. Everyone says they are sorry for me, but I think they are ridiculous," Andersen said. "I got my spot in Charlestown, my hot tub, my summer pool, Boston parking, and I walk out every morning to the smell of the ocean and skyline is on the way." 

• Charlestown News

Mike Sullivan is a multimedia journalist for WBZ-TV. He returned to his home state of Massachusetts after reporting in the Midwest for more than ten years.

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