Exploring The Diversity Of Living Boats

Living on a boat is an increasingly popular choice, with many people opting to swap bricks and mortar for life on the water. There are several types of boats that can be lived on, from sailboats to motor yachts, trawlers, houseboats, and catamarans. Each type of boat has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on the individual's needs and preferences. For example, sailboats offer a sense of adventure and freedom, while motor yachts provide high speeds and luxurious amenities. Trawlers are ideal for long-range cruising, and houseboats offer spacious interiors and home comforts. Catamarans provide added stability and separate living spaces. The cost of living on a boat can vary depending on factors such as boat size, insurance, slip fees, and maintenance.

Motor yachts and cabin cruisers

When it comes to size, motor yachts can vary significantly, with lengths ranging from 30 to over 100 feet. The larger vessels, typically those exceeding 100 feet in length, are commonly referred to as superyachts. While motor yachts provide generous living spaces, they also come with higher price tags and maintenance requirements.

Cabin cruisers, such as the Cutwater 32, offer a more compact yet functional option. This model features a single cabin, a galley, and a lounge area with large windows that flood the space with natural light and air. Cabin cruisers are generally more affordable and manoeuvrable than larger motor yachts, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a balance between comfort and convenience.

If you're considering a liveaboard lifestyle, motor yachts and cabin cruisers provide a range of options to suit different needs and budgets. Whether you opt for the spaciousness of a motor yacht or the manoeuvrability of a cabin cruiser, you'll find a variety of choices to make your life on the water both comfortable and enjoyable.

Sailboats

There are two main types of sailboats: monohull and multihull. Monohull sailboats have a single hull and are usually more limited in terms of interior room. They often have a deep keel or centreboard, which restricts access to shallow marinas or moorings. They also have pointy ends and curved sides, which can limit headroom and storage space. However, they are usually more affordable and easier to manoeuvre than multihull sailboats.

Multihulls include catamarans (two hulls) and trimarans (three hulls). The main advantage of multihulls is the increased space, with almost twice as much room as a monohull. They also have a shallower draft, making them faster and more stable than monohulls. However, they are usually more expensive and can be harder to find marina slips for due to their larger beam (width).

When choosing a sailboat to live on, it's important to consider the level of accommodation and amenities you require. Some people prefer a more basic and stripped-down interior, while others may want modern conveniences such as electric toilets and a full galley. It's also worth considering the intended use of the sailboat, as long-distance cruising sailboats will have different cabin arrangements and features compared to coastal cruisers.

• Catalina 38: This sloop was produced between 1977 and 1990 and offers a well-thought-out interior with electrical outlets throughout the cabin. It has a spacious head with a sink and plenty of places to sleep.
• Hunter 33: This sailboat has been in production since 1977 and offers excellent interior accommodations with plenty of sitting and sleeping areas. It has a full dinette, toilet, and shower, as well as standing headroom throughout the long cabin.
• Contessa 32: Produced from 1970 until 1990, this 32-foot cruising and racing sailboat offers a thoughtfully designed traditional cabin with a fold-up table in the centre. It has a separate master bedroom, head, and shower, making it a great choice for those who value organisation and simplicity.
• Islander 36: While manufacturing ceased in the 1980s, the Islander 36 is a well-rounded liveaboard sailboat with impressive cruising capabilities. It includes an enclosed head with a shower and flush toilet, as well as a spacious and well-designed interior layout.
• Nor'Sea 27: This classic compact sailboat is ideal for minimalist or single people living aboard. It features a toilet, shower, and galley, as well as a forward berth that converts into a dinette. It is also trailerable, making it a great option for those who want to explore different locations.
• Peterson 44: Also known as a 'centre-cockpit cruiser', this sailboat maximises living space without sacrificing sailing capabilities. It features a master bedroom and bathroom, another cabin, berth, and head, a full galley, booth dinette, and settee, as well as excellent storage.

Trawlers

The best size of trawler depends on the number of people living on board. For couples, a trawler of at least 30 feet in length is recommended, while families should consider a trawler that is at least 40 feet long.

Some popular trawler boat manufacturers include Albin, Beneteau, Grand Banks, Mainship, Nordhavn, Ocean Alexander, Ranger Tugs, and Sabre.

Houseboats

Static houseboats are also known as non-cruising houseboats and are moored or anchored semi-permanently at piers and marinas. They are often plugged into utilities at a marina and have access to the internet, electricity, and other amenities. These boats are usually larger than cruising houseboats, with ample space for storage and custom features. They are ideal for those who want to live on the water full-time.

Cruising houseboats, on the other hand, can travel on water and are typically powered by sails or an engine. They are designed for calmer waters like lakes and rivers and are not suitable for high seas or open waters. These boats are often used as vacation vessels or for water activities and fishing trips.

Canal-style houseboats, also known as narrowboats, are popular in Europe and have a flat bottom with a slightly raised deck. They are designed for canals and similar waterways and are easy to tie off on banks and docks. While they offer less storage space, they are more manoeuvrable and provide access to electricity and communication through a junction box near the bow.

Pontoon houseboats combine the features of a pontoon boat and a typical houseboat, offering stability and ease of operation. They are made of aluminium but can also be constructed from other materials. These boats are relatively affordable and are great for vacations and exploring new areas.

Floating-home houseboats are stationary and designed to float on pontoons or barge-like hulls. They are often connected to local utilities and sewer lines and are economical and energy-efficient. This style is commonly used for residential living, and Seattle's waterfront is known for its floating-home communities.

Catamaran-style houseboats offer improved stability, efficient handling, and easier docking. They have more storage space and are one of the most fuel-efficient types of houseboats.

Full-hull houseboats have a solid hull made of moulded fibreglass, often reinforced with wood. They provide larger living and storage spaces, and additional features can be added for a more comfortable experience.

Barge-style houseboats are some of the largest houseboats available and come in both cruising and non-cruising models. They are designed with a shallow depth to navigate through shallow waters easily and are low maintenance. These boats offer ample space and can accommodate full kitchens, bathrooms, and other amenities.

Trailerable houseboats are small, versatile, and affordable, making them ideal for towing behind a powerful vehicle. They are constructed from various materials, including aluminium, fibreglass, steel, and wood. While they are manoeuvrable and good for trips to remote locations, they have limited space and amenities.

River houseboats are self-sufficient and provide ample living space for families or groups of friends. They are available in both cruising and non-cruising styles and offer excellent accommodations and amenities at various price points.

Luxury houseboats are often larger and come with additional features such as air conditioning, dishwashers, grills, and granite countertops. Some are motorized and may be customized from commercial vessels.

Multihulls

However, due to their width, it is harder to find a slip for multihulls in a marina, and they are usually more expensive to purchase and maintain.

If you're looking for a multihull sailboat, you can consider the Flicka, a twenty-foot-long sailboat manufactured by Pacific Seacraft. Despite its small size, it has tremendous room and has served as a liveaboard home for many people. It has even made several Atlantic and Pacific crossings and circumnavigated the globe.

If you're looking for a multihull powerboat, you can consider the PDQ Power Catamaran, which is economical to run and can negotiate shallower waters due to its hull design.

Frequently asked questions