Why Not Live on a Boat? And Write?
A range of alternative lifestyles for anyone
I live on a boat and write novels. And I’ve worked extensively online over the past 20 years — on my boat.
You could do it too.
Living on a boat is not necessarily about getting seasick — the first thing that comes to most people’s minds when living on a boat is floated as an idea.
There is a huge range of ‘styles’ of life on a boat and many don’t include mal de mer.
What is life on a boat really like?
An easy question. It’s not all that different to life ashore if you plan it that way. Of course, there are practicalities to deal with because you’re living somewhere smaller than most people’s bedrooms.
But your bedroom is mobile and if you wish you can have a different outlook every day. If you like solitude and being with nature, then that’s easy to find. If you don’t, then base yourself in a popular marina with shops, bars and restaurants. Or anchor off a town.
Unquestionably it is an outdoor life style.
And fishing is easy if that appeals. We hang a line over the stern and catch fish regularly. It doesn’t come fresher!
How much does it cost?
I’m not going to re-invent the wheel here.
Boats are not expensive to buy these days, compared with, say a mid range family car. Back in the 1970s boats suitable for living aboard were beyond the reach of most people. Nowadays there’s far more choice and prices to suit most pockets.
Lots of people use boats as a cheap alternative to a holiday home. But it can be more than that and you’re still getting value for money compared with something like a static caravan or log cabin.
Annie Hill wrote a great book on the subject. She’s just built herself another boat. Yes, with her own hands, in New Zealand. That’s certainly not for everyone, but the book, Voyaging on a Small Budget, is worth reading (no affiliation) if only to give you an insight into one of the many possible lifestyles you could enjoy on a small boat.
But not everyone want to voyage.
Maybe you like the idea of being tucked up in a river, perhaps in Spain (almost free). Or in a marina in Oregon (prices vary enormously and not all marinas like ‘liveaboards’).
Boats can be bought for $1. But that will usually mean you will have a LOT of work to do to bring it up to scratch. Definitely not recommended, but certainly possible if you’re handy with tools and have the time. But budget very carefully. I started when my Dad built a plywood dinghy in the yard.
Think about:
- What sort of lifestyle do you envisage?
- Would you sell your home to make the move?
Testing the water
Of course there can be a lot to learn about safety, boat handling and the weather — depending on the level of ambition you have. Training courses are plentiful and you get used to being on boats and living aboard for short spells.
Once you have basic qualifications then you can charter a boat and get used to being your own skipper. And you can do that almost anywhere in the world.
Check out the £200 millionaire (no affiliation). It’s an old story but it could change your view of life.
About me: I write on a variety of topics including humor, tech and travel, together with daily news events. I also write techno-thrillers…and about…
…living and working on my boat
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You can follow me on Facebook Twitter @jamesmarinero . On Pinterest you will find many of my research photos from around the world. Check out my website where I occasionally have a free book on offer.
