Why don't marina's like liveaboards? - General Yachting Discussion (2023)

FAQs

Why do marinas not like liveaboards? ›

Many liveaboards will pump sewage overboard at night if there isn't a pumpout that can reach the boat. The grey water scum floating around the marina every morning. Also the extra electrical and water demands (costs) to the marina's.

Most marinas require an application for you to move aboard permanently. In some areas, liveaboards aren't permitted or there are long waiting lists. Liveaboard slip fees are usually higher and your insurance rates may increase if your boat becomes your primary residence.

: a boat suitable for a person to live on.

Living on a boat is frequently associated with luxury and affluence. However, this life is frequently less expensive than other lodgings. You'll save money on utilities, water, plus the mortgage or rent.

Put simply, marinas are not designed for people to hop into the water. They are designed for boats and potentially hazardous electrical equipment. Often, wiring can fray or dip into the water. Don't swim at a marina, because all of these active electrical currents can often charge the water.

Exhaust fumes from boat engines or generators can have a deliberating effect to swimmers exposed to the harmful exhaust. A seemingly calm water's surface may mask unseen hazardous conditions. Many marinas experience strong currents caused by tidal changes, flowing rivers, wind produced seiches or heavy rains.

Marinas tend to be a lot more sheltered than more open anchorages, so living in a marina means the boat moves around a lot less. But obviously it still moves a lot more than when you live in a house! Living in a marina comes with the benefit of unlimited water and electricity, just like in a house.

Can you sleep on a boat in a marina? A marina is one of the most popular locations for sleeping on a boat overnight because of the amenities and facilities available to boaters.

Boats are a lot of work, far more than a house. Stuff breaks all the time and you'll need to be a good problem solver and ideally handy with tools. It's hard work, but on the plus side, you'll develop a whole bunch of new skills.

Some of the most important amenities to look for when selecting a liveaboard boat is heating and air conditioning, adequate closet space, a fully-functional galley, comfortable master stateroom, and a practical salon with entertainment systems.

What is the minimum size boat for live aboard? ›

For a sailboat to be considered as a liveaboard, it needs to be at least 30ft. Anything smaller and the boat will be cramped for anyone other than a solo sailor. However, the larger the boat, the greater the cost of ownership. The ideal size sailboat to live on would be 35-45 feet for most people.

Liveaboard sailboats in clean and operational condition cost anywhere between $10,000 and $30,000, but some excellent vessels cost less. Finding an affordable sailboat can greatly reduce the overall cost of living the liveaboard lifestyle.

Lack of Space

This may be one of the main drawbacks of living aboard your boat, especially if you are looking to house more than one person. Boats, whilst incredibly space-efficient, do not give much space for storage. After your boat is furnished and fully equipped, you will quickly run out of room.

If you are leasing a boat slip, property taxes will usually be included in the monthly lease price. However, there are ways to avoid paying property taxes when living on a boat. For vessels that are always at sea and only briefly stay in ports, you are less likely to be subject to property taxes.

"They do get a salary for being hired as part of the yacht crew, they do get to keep their tips, and they do get a production fee."

The Disadvantages to Living on a Houseboat

There are additional fees involved with living on a houseboat. In addition to payments on the boat itself, you likely will have to pay rental fees for the slip you are using in the marina. A houseboat typically has less living space than in a traditional single-family home.

The most popular and sought-after marinas: “The favorites remain St. Tropez in France, Porto Cervo and Capri in Italy,” says Benazeth. “A slightly more recent addition is Ibiza, which has always been of interest to superyachts, but was held back by strict regulations on cruising in Spain.

Marinas and boating activities can also contribute to nonpoint source pollution. Chemicals used to maintain and repair boats, such as solvents, oils, paints, and cleansers, may spill into the water, or make their way into waterbodies via runoff.

For some people, living on a boat is a lifelong dream, for others, not so much. No matter how romantic you find the notion, do not attempt to live aboard if your partner is not game. There are plenty of challenges: limited space, leaks, and potentially a lot of motion.