Living on a Sailboat?

-I'm curious about living on a sailboat. Does anyone here know people who live on one or actually live on one themselves? I'm only asking because it seems like a pretty inexpensive lifestyle once you've got the sailboat ready for full operation. I've never sailed, but have always wanted to. I think it would be a great lifestyle. What do you think? I will most likely be living in Hawaii (Thats the plan right now) and traveling to Charleston, SC and also Malaysia. So I know I'll need to learn a lot before making those trips, mainly the Malaysia trip. I've read that sailboats are usually cheaper in Hawaii so I would probably buy it there, if I do.



Experiences living on a sailboat?



Suggestions for buying the right boat for sailing to other countries roomy enough for 2 to live in?



Advice on what to stay away from in regards to types of sailboats?



How big of a sailboat should we get that can be managed by one person if needed?



How much do you think it would cost to get fully operational and ready to live on and be ready for long distance sailing?



For the international sailing, would I need a Captains License?



Do I need a Captains License period? If so, how hard is that and how long does it take?



You don't have to answer all the questions, just the ones you can. ThanksA lot of questions and none that are easily answered. First make some short trips...especially into rough water because inevitably you'll meet some while cruising. Many people assume they are sailors but end up sick or bored after investing a great deal of time and money. Not every one is a long distance sailor. My preference is for short legs near home. The price as dictated by the boat varies so much that it is once more very difficult to answer. A friend of mine well versed in blue water sailing...15 trips across the Atlantic, many solo as well as all of the south Pacific, just bought a 1981 Niagara 35 which is as good as it gets out there for a reasonable $38k Canadian. Took about 10k extra to get her ready to sail home but she's very much capable of all that you would need. There's a great deal of disagreement on the best boats but there are many out there that cost much less than 100k. Here in Canada we have seen more than our share of good cruising boats that predate the 80's. Check out some of the ones built in Ontario and Quebec as well as Nova Scotia. Look for carrying capacity..water and fuel not a good cockpit for lounging because they won't help save your hide between ports. I don't think you need any form of ticket...sure don't here in Canada as long as it's classed as a yacht below a given tonnage.
I live on a 52 ft Jeanneau and I have cruised Mexico with my family for just about a year. It has been great and we have had a lot of fun.There will probably be more boats to pick from if your on the mainland. I can answer most of you questions for you so here it is



Question1...living on a sailboat is a large lifestyle change but i think it is for the better. You are truly free and can go many places people without a boat can't. If you will be doing a crossing make sure you watch the weather which is the main thing. Today my dad and i saved a 43 ft twin engine trawler in Cabo san Lucas Mexico which was a cool experience. You will find you will have many cool experiences though cruising.



Question2...look for something where most of the sails can be controlled in the cockpit for single handed sailing. Sloop or cutter rig is good. Depending on what your looking for full or thin keel is fine. Stay away from fake wood in the interior. Get a boat that will also sail well also. Center cockpit boats are good but don't offer as much space in the cockpit. For lounging aft cockpit is better and larger.



Question3...Hunter is horrible, any Beneteau yr. 2005 and up, catalinas are okay, the newer Jeannea because Beneteau has taken them over recently, nothing 2007 and up..mine is very nice, most things that are 1980s and down are a lot of work to fix up so if you want to buy a boat and go stay up from around the yr 85



Question4...35 to 45 ft very comfortable for two people



Question5...from 100,000+ dollars



Question6...NO



Question7...NO just make sure you are educated about cruising and know your boat. Also take some time practicing and doing little trips around the islands if you buy a boat there. If you are on the mainland make little week trips where ever you are and practice with your boat.



I recommend going into a sailing school which will teach you many things about sailing.

Also it will be hard to find a marina slip in Hawaii. search for boats to buy on www.yachtworld.com



Nick on SCOUT