In a world increasingly open to alternative ways of living, more people are choosing to leave behind traditional homes in favour of a life afloat. For many, the draw of living on board a boat lies in its promise of freedom, breath-taking scenery, and the sense of adventure that comes with being connected to the sea.

Life Afloat: More Than Just a Scenic View

Boat life is often romanticised—and not without reason. Vessels between 26 and 40 feet offer far more than just a bed and a galley. Many are cleverly designed with fixed sleeping areas, compact kitchens, and even dedicated saloon and bunk spaces. It's not uncommon to find boats with chart tables that convert into work desks, allowing liveaboard owners to blend leisure with remote work seamlessly.

But the lifestyle is more than just about picturesque horizons. It’s a conscious choice to downsize, simplify, and fully immerse yourself in nature. Boat living is a gateway to exploring coastal beauty and a slower, more intentional pace of life.

Off-Grid Living and Sustainability

When a massive tech failure plunged large parts of Spain and Portugal into a sudden, disorienting blackout at the end of April, many people found themselves abruptly severed from the modern world: no lights, no internet, no card machines. Even mobile networks and internet services collapsed for hours. For those tied to the grid, it was a stark reminder of just how fragile our infrastructure had become.

A quieter part of the population barely noticed. The off-grid community carried on. Boaters, of course, were among them, floating in quiet anchorages, solar panels catching the sun, water tanks filled, batteries charged.

Before off-grid was a buzzword, it was just... how boats worked. Water-makers, solar panels, wind generators, composting toilets, diesel heaters and efficient battery banks; none of this is new to the average cruising sailor. Boats have always demanded self-reliance. Energy must be generated and stored, waste managed and supplies planned.

With proper planning, off-grid living on a boat can be both efficient and deeply rewarding.

Planning and Practicalities

Despite its appeal, living on board requires careful preparation and adaptability. Travelling by boat often means coordinating moorings between marinas or anchorages, each with varying levels of availability and cost. While marinas offer convenience and community, alternatives such as sheltered bays, hired mooring buoys, or even beaching the boat offer more flexibility—but come with their own demands.

Understanding and maintaining your boat's systems is vital. From water pumps to electrical setups, onboard life demands a hands-on approach.

One of the most jarring aspects of the recent power outage in parts of Spain and Portugal was not just the lack of electricity - it was the silence. No mobile signal or WiFi, but staying connected while living afloat has never been easier. The original Starlink setup to ensured you could stay connected offshore or in remote anchorages. More recently, there is the Starlink Mini - compact, efficient and, crucially, able to plug directly into 12V systems. It is a game-changer, offering fast, independent internet, without relying on land based infrastructure

Financing the Floating Lifestyle

The shift towards remote work has opened up new possibilities for sustaining a nomadic lifestyle. Digital platforms now support a wide range of income opportunities—from content creation and consulting to freelancing across multiple industries.

Boaters moored near bustling marinas often benefit from an added layer of community and commerce. With cafes, workshops, bars, and small businesses nearby, opportunities for networking and supplemental income abound.

The Spirit of the Sea

Ultimately, the liveaboard lifestyle is as much a mindset as it is a way of living. It calls for adaptability, a thirst for adventure, and a commitment to sustainable practices. For those who embrace its rhythm, living onboard is richly rewarding—offering not only the beauty of the sea but also the freedom to shape life on your own terms.

At Boatshed, we continue to support those ready to take this leap—offering guidance, practical tools, and a global network of passionate boat lovers. Whether you’re planning a full-time move onboard or simply dreaming of coastal living, your next adventure might be just a boat away.