live on a sailboat

I find myself owning a sailboat again, and about to embark on an amazing journey. If you don’t hear from me again, well… I didn’t make it, lol

We have recently been living on a 26-ft. boat in Dana Point. We’re in the process of buying a bigger boat (40-ft.) and we have no where to put it. Does anyone know where we can live on a boat out on the ocean without violating any laws?

I love the sea and don’t need alot of material goods to make me happy. Warm waether and the vast ocean offer experiences.

It just occured to me that I could wait to find a great deal on a sailboat (as I just have) on craigslist, buy the boat and a slip, and live on it.
It would cost about $450/mo to live on a 30’ sailboat. That’s probably the cheapest gated community in San Diego, and a great way to be able to stay here after I get out of the military.
I don’t want to return to Iowa, except to see family and friends, but staying in SD seems a little unreasonable while going to college because the rent alone would destroy me. It’s usually $1000/mo for a tiny little apartment.

job
loan
boat
slip
roommate?

Why is it so impossible to find a mate to share this dream? One that I have had since a young boy growing up on the ocean in Long Island. I will be organized and really ready 5 years from now … perhaps sooner … don’t want to do it alone. Dave

Last night I attended a Bon Voyage party for a sailing acquaintance. My first impression when reading the announcement was jealousy. But after reading her blog, I realized that she also had moments of doubt.

I am ALREADY on the path. I stumble quite a bit, but I can take a bearing, plot a course, and cast off, NOW! (figuratively speaking.)

I often consider myself to be getting too old, but Sandy is a decade older. I don’t need to feel rushed. I don’t need to wish I were somewhere further down the path. I can enjoy my sailing and learning NOW, and trust that the future will take care of itself.

Besides, it’s all I CAN do anyway.

I grew up loving the water…thanks to my dad. We had a 30ft catalina and I adore sailing. I have always wanted to live on a sailboat but I put that thought in the back of my mind because I was busy raising kids. Well my daughter went to college and my son has 1 more year left of H.S AND I recently had a long relationship end. I have decided why not? It’s my turn to live!! So, next year I am going to buy one and live on it. If anyone has any advice on this adventure I would really appreciate it…

My hubby and I are currently looking for a sailboat to live aboard. We rented a 62’ ketch two years in the Virgin Islands and fell in love with it. We have put a goal to be doing this in the next 2 years, hopefully sooner.

I’ve recently been inspired to live aboard, most likely in Southern California. Check out the book, “The Essentials of Living Aboard a Boat” by Mark Nicholas. It has tons of useful information. I’m living in Chicago now, and will be taking sailing lessons this summer. As soon as I can get a transfer to Los Angeles, I’ll be on my way. Shooting for fall 2009, but would love to be outta here by this winter!

I’ve never been into sailing really, but it occurred to me recently that living on a boat would be a great idea for someone that likes to travel as much as I do and doesn’t have a lot of money (also like me…). Sailboats are cheap I hear- maybe six grand for a 30something footer. Or less. That’s much better that paying rent every month. Plus, the fuel that makes it go is free. You can go/live anywhere you want. That suits me just fine.

If anyone has a boat I could make payments on please let me know. I’m about to start my search.