If you’ve considered making your passion your full-time home, you’re not alone. In fact, statistics show that living on a boat can be more cost-effective than renting an apartment or paying a mortgage on a home. In this article, we’re going to cover the frequently asked questions regarding living on a boat. Before making any decisions, protect yourself and your vessel with a Boat Insurance policy.
What are the costs of living aboard?
This is a relative factor that depends on location, climate, how you use your boat and how often. For example, on the east coast, people often rent out apartments for the winter and return in the spring. If you’re in a more mild climate, such as southern California, you might choose to live on your boat year-round. So, depending on your lifestyle and how you plan on living, this can be a money-saving option or a luxurious one.
How do I go about living on a boat?
It might seem a bit backward, but once you have a general idea what kind of boat you’d like to call home, it is usually better to research your marina options. In some markets, there are no available slips for liveaboards and in others space is not an issue. There are too many people that end up with boats and no place to put them. Some people will even pay for a slip when it becomes available while they continue to locate and buy their boat.
The second thing you should do, after you know where you can put your boat along with any possible limitations (such as boat size) is choose your boat and clearly develop an understanding of the costs, says Living Aboard.
Can I have modern amenities on a boat?
The short answer is yes. Wireless internet and phone service is easy to install in the boat. Or, you can inquire about what provider services the marina to use a wired option. As for tv, you can get a satellite dish or antenna to get channels on board.
Can I stay on my boat in winter?
In conditions where the air drops below freezing, and especially if the water can freeze, proper care is essential and can be the difference between life and death. It is critical that ice is kept away from the hull, and there are ways to do this. In addition, the engine and water lines must be winterized or otherwise heated. A smoke/CO2 detector is critical and care should be taken to ensure that heating devices do not deplete the oxygen or are not vented properly. Be careful when walking on the decks on your boat or on the docks as they can easily become icy and slippery, as well.
Living on a boat in winter is doable with the right preparation and equipment. However, it’s all up to the owner.
About Mariners Insurance
Mariners General Insurance Group was founded in 1959 to protect boat owners and marine business clients. We are marine insurance experts, and insure boats worldwide – in every ocean on the planet. Marine insurance is critical if you own a boat or nautical business. Trust the professionals with all of your Boat Insurance needs – trust Mariners Insurance. Call us at (800) 992-4443 any time you have questions or concerns about insurance for your vessel or marine business.
