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Best Boats To Live On (2024 Update)

If you're looking for a unique and adventurous way to live life to the fullest, living on a boat may be the perfect way to do it. Whether you’re drawn to the water, the freedom of life on the move, or the tranquility of being surrounded by nature, living on a boat can be an amazing experience. However, before taking this plunge, it’s important to consider all the factors before choosing the best boat for you.

First, you need to determine what kind of boat suits your lifestyle and needs. How big should the boat be? How many people should it accommodate? What amenities, such as a fully equipped kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping quarters, do you require? Additionally, you must consider where you plan to dock the boat and how often you will need to move it.

Second, you need to think about the practicalities of living on a boat. With limited space, you must be efficient in your use of resources and storage. You must also be prepared for the maintenance and upkeep required to keep the boat functional.

Finally, you may be asking, “Why is living on a boat such a great idea?” What are the benefits of living this lifestyle? What challenges will you face? How can you deal with them? In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about choosing the best boat to live on and what to expect from life on the waves.

10 Best Boats To Live On

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for creating a fun and enjoyable swimming experience in lakes, rivers, or pools.
2
This product is ideal for adding ocean and beach landscape themed wall art to a modern living room space.
3
Ideal for enhancing the look of living room walls and adding a modern touch to home decor with beautiful beach and sunrise imagery.
4
Ideal for adding nautical-themed wall art to home, office, living room or man bedroom. Stretched and framed, ready to hang.
5
This product is ideal for solo kayaking adventures with its lightweight and easily portable design.
6
The product is ideal for adding a modern and decorative touch to a living room with its framed canvas prints.
7
This canvas print set is ideal for adding a colorful, rustic touch to the décor of living rooms, bedrooms, and offices.
8
The product is ideal for creating a sturdy and spacious platform on water for various activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing.
9
This product is ideal for adding contemporary and abstract art to living rooms or bedrooms with a ready-to-hang canvas.
10
This product is ideal for decorating a living room or bedroom with fishing-themed art on canvas.
The product is ideal for creating a fun and enjoyable swimming experience in lakes, rivers, or pools.
This product is ideal for adding ocean and beach landscape themed wall art to a modern living room space.
Ideal for enhancing the look of living room walls and adding a modern touch to home decor with beautiful beach and sunrise imagery.
Ideal for adding nautical-themed wall art to home, office, living room or man bedroom. Stretched and framed, ready to hang.
This product is ideal for solo kayaking adventures with its lightweight and easily portable design.
The product is ideal for adding a modern and decorative touch to a living room with its framed canvas prints.
This canvas print set is ideal for adding a colorful, rustic touch to the décor of living rooms, bedrooms, and offices.
The product is ideal for creating a sturdy and spacious platform on water for various activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing.
This product is ideal for adding contemporary and abstract art to living rooms or bedrooms with a ready-to-hang canvas.
This product is ideal for decorating a living room or bedroom with fishing-themed art on canvas.

1. Island Hopper Patio Dock 15 Foot Inflatable Swimming Water Platform

Introducing the 15’ X 6’ x 6” Water Patio platform extension – the perfect addition to your pontoon or sport boat to enhance your water experience. This manageable platform size can comfortably accommodate 10 or more friends and can handle over 2000 lbs. With its versatility, you can use it for sunbathing, swim play, wakeboard and tube launching, boat docking, floating dock, and any number of water activities. You can even paddle it like a giant stand-up paddleboard and anchor it in place at a swim area.

The durable EVA foam surface is not only non-slip, but also has a soft feel, adding to the comfort of your water experience. You can connect multiple units to make an extended platform configuration. The platform also features 11 side welded stainless D-rings, 6 carry handles, and 24 top & bottom welded web-loops for secure anchoring and holding accessories.

This product comes with 2 inflators: a PSI hand pump and electric 15 PSI auto-set portable power inflator with a 20” extend power cord (a $129 value!). You can plug it into both 12-volt options – cigarette lighter outlet and battery terminal clamps. In addition to the platform, you will also receive a double-action hand pump, stow straps, an instruction manual, and repair patches. Optional suggested accessories sold separately on Amazon Prime include an inflatable pillow and soft entry ladder. The valve is a universal inflatable boat valve fitting for inflation. You can also take advantage of the 30-day money-back satisfaction guarantee.

The Island Patio Swim Dock is constructed with a rigid and buoyant commercial drop-stitch, and heat-welded seams for added durability. Island Hopper does not use glue on the sides or corner seams on their platforms, unlike most competitors. Instead, they have developed a special Heat-Welding process for these tight rounded edges and corners to ensure that the seams will never come apart. The welding process may cost a little more, but it is worth it! Island Hopper backs their quality with a 5-year "NO SEAM BLOW-OUT" limited warranty on all of their drop-stitch platforms.

This product is a must-have for anyone who loves spending time on the water. With its durability, versatility, and added accessories, you can enjoy countless hours of fun with family and friends.

2. Beachscape Canvas: Hand-Painted Wooden Frame Wall Art

This high-quality canvas print is an original design, featuring hand-painted details that truly make it stand out. The inner stretcher is made of natural fir wood, while the elegant golden frame is crafted from stable and durable PS material.

This canvas picture comes ready to hang, with pre-installed hooks and a solid wooden frame. The HD prints are of the highest quality, and are waterproof, UV-resistant, and fade-resistant, making it an ideal choice for indoor display.

The canvas is gallery-wrapped, adding depth and dimension to the artwork. This piece is perfect for display in a variety of settings, including living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, offices, hotels, dining rooms, bathrooms, bars, cafes, and more.

One of the standout features of this artwork is the 1.5-inch thickness of the wood stretcher bar. Made from high-quality pine tree wood from North European countries, this thickness sets it apart from other canvas prints with only 0.8-inch thickness. The result is a truly unique and valuable piece that will enhance any space it is displayed in.

3. Sunrise Seaside Canvas Print – 60×40 Framed

Looking for the perfect piece of wall art to add a touch of elegance to your home? Look no further than this stunning canvas painting! With a size of 60×40 inches, this artwork is sure to make a statement in any space.

Crafted from high-quality printed canvas, this painting is stretched and stapled to durable, shrink-resistant frames to ensure it stays looking beautiful for years to come. The result is a truly stunning piece of art that will add a touch of sophistication to any room.

Not only is this canvas painting beautiful, it is also incredibly easy to hang! Each panel is already stretched on solid wooden frames and comes with hooks and accessories, making it a breeze to hang and enjoy in your home. Whether you're looking to add a touch of elegance to your living room, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, guest room, or office, this canvas painting is the perfect choice.

At an affordable price, this canvas painting is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to add a touch of sophistication to their home decor. And with our 45-day money-back guarantee, you can shop with confidence, knowing that you're getting a quality product at an unbeatable price. So why wait? Order your canvas painting today and start enjoying the beauty and elegance it brings to your home!

4. Sunset Yacht Canvas Trio For Nautical Home Decor

This beautiful canvas artwork is a must-have for any home or office space. Measuring 16×24 inches per panel, this set of 3 canvases comes in a customizable size to fit your specific needs.

The artwork is expertly printed using the Giclee method, ensuring a high-quality, long-lasting print that will bring life to any room. The canvas is also waterproof and archival quality, making it a durable and reliable piece of art.

These canvases are perfect for decorating any living space, including the living room, bedroom, kitchen, office, hotel, restaurant, dining room, bathroom, bar, and more. They are versatile and can be used to complement any décor style.

Each canvas panel comes with a black hook already mounted on the wooden bar, making it easy to hang straight out of the box. The back of each panel is covered with neat flannel, ensuring that the staples or tacks used during the manufacturing process are not visible.

At this seller, they only provide high-grade wall art, so you can be confident that you are receiving a top-quality product. However, if you do encounter any issues with your purchase, don't hesitate to contact their customer service team. They offer a 30-day full refund guarantee, ensuring your complete satisfaction with your purchase.

5. Sevylor Quikpak K1 1-Person Kayak Blue, 8'7" X 3'

Looking for a durable and easy-to-use inflatable kayak? Look no further than this 5-minute setup option that will have you out on the water in no time. The backpack system makes it easy to carry to your desired location and doubles as the seat for your adventure.

Constructed with rugged 21-gauge PVC, this kayak is built to handle the demands of lake use. The tarpaulin bottom adds extra protection against punctures, allowing you to confidently navigate through the water without fear of damaging your vessel.

In the unlikely event of a puncture, the multiple air chambers ensure that you will still be able to make it back to shore safely. The double lock valves make inflation and deflation a breeze, with two locking points to ensure a secure seal.

Spend your time on the water in comfort with the backrest and multi-position footrest, allowing you to find the perfect position to relax and enjoy the ride. The secure storage area with bungees lets you store your items safely and securely while you paddle.

This inflatable kayak comes complete with a pump and paddle, making it the perfect choice for anyone looking for a convenient and easy-to-use option for their next water adventure.

6. Seaside Impressions: 3-Piece Canvas Art Set

This canvas print set is an exquisite addition to any home decor. Each panel measures 40"x20" and when placed horizontally, side by side, the total size is 60"Wx40"H (100x150cm). The high definition photo prints on quality canvas create a vivid, original nature look and feel, resulting in an immersive atmosphere when hung on the wall.

These canvas art wall paintings are made of 100% anti-fade cotton linen, which is waterproof, lightweight and safe. The framed wall art has long-lasting durability, ensuring you can keep it for a long time. It comes ready to hang, with each panel perfectly stretched on a strong wooden frame and metal hooks mounted on the back, making it easy to hang with traceless thumbtacks.

This canvas wall decor makes for a great gift choice for special occasions such as birthdays, Christmas, Thanksgiving Day, New Year, or any other important event. It's a perfect gift for family, friends, colleagues, or customers.

7. Wilderness Boat Canvas Print Set

Introducing this stunning 3-piece canvas art set, featuring high-quality printed artwork that is expertly stretched to fit on durable, shrink-resistant canvas. Each piece measures a generous 24"x36", making this set perfect for adding a statement piece to any room in the house.

This canvas art set is a great gift idea for friends and family, especially during holidays or other special occasions. The 1.5" stretcher bars give the artwork a gallery-quality profile, ensuring that it will look great on any wall.

The set comes complete with a hanging accessory toolkit, making it easy to install and display your stunning new artwork. Please note that due to monitor display issues, the actual colors of the artwork may slightly differ from the pictures.

8. Inflatable Sport Boats Mega Yacht Dock 10' X 10' Inflatable Water Platform Dock

Looking for a luxurious extended swim platform for your boat? Look no further than the Mega Yacht Dock! Currently on sale for $210 off, this inflatable dock is a must-have for any captain looking to expand their swim deck without sacrificing cabin space.

What sets the Mega Yacht Dock apart from other water platforms on the market? It features industry-exclusive HEAT WELDED seams on a drop stitch platform, ensuring durability and longevity. The platform is also crafted from UV-resistant, heavy duty PVC and boasts a ¼ inch thick deluxe teak wood EVA foam top, providing both style and comfort.

In just 8 minutes, the Mega Yacht Dock can be inflated to its impressive dimensions of 10 feet by 10 feet by 6 inches thick. When it's time to pack up and head out, the dock deflates in just 5 minutes and rolls up to a compact size of 44”x 12” x 16”, making it easy to store anywhere.

The Mega Yacht Dock comes equipped with a variety of features to enhance your experience. It includes a storage strap, double action hand pump with PSI gauge, 2 elastic storage bungees on both corners, an owner’s manual, 2 repair PVC patches, 4 D-rings for optional ladders, 8 D-rings for mooring, and 8 heavy duty carry handles.

For your peace of mind, the Mega Yacht Dock also comes with a 2 Year Manufacturer Limited Warranty and a 30 day money back satisfaction guarantee.

Upgrade your boat's swim deck with the Mega Yacht Dock and enjoy a luxurious, spacious experience on the water.

9. Fishing Village Canvas Art – Ready To Hang

This large oil painting, measuring 24×48 inches (60x120cm), is an impressive piece of art that will add richness and texture to your living space. The ocean painting wall art is designed to create a strong contrast and enhance the beauty of your room.

This 100% hand-painted wall art is perfect for various settings, including hotels, homes, offices, arenas, ballrooms, resorts, hotels, coffee shops, living rooms, studies, bedrooms, dining rooms, hallways, lounge spaces, and more.

Installing this decorative canvas oil painting set is easy, as each panel comes stretched and framed, with a black hook already mounted on the wooden bar for easy hanging.

The painting also comes in a separate carton packaging, making it a great gift for your loved ones. The packaging has an atmospheric fashion appearance, adding to the overall appeal of the gift.

Before making a purchase, please confirm the installation space to ensure that this beautiful piece of artwork fits perfectly in your room.

10. Fishing Seascape Canvas – Premium Quality Wall Art

This set of wooden framed canvas panels is perfect for adding a touch of elegance and style to any room. With a total size of 20x28inchx3pcs (50x70cmx3pcs), this set includes three panels that are sure to impress.

The posters and prints have been created using high-quality glossy canvas, ensuring long-lasting durability. The latest state-of-the-art color technology has been used to print at high resolution, ensuring sharp and vivid images every time.

These framed wall art pieces are ready to hang, with a strong hook already fixed on each wooden inner frame. This makes it easy to hang them up straight out of the box.

Ideal for Christmas and New Year gifts, these wall pictures are perfect for decorating any room, including the bedroom, kitchen, dining room, office, hotel, bar, and more. Please note that due to different monitor brands, actual wall art colors may be slightly different from the product image.

Your paintings will be carefully packaged in bubble wrap and cardboard to ensure they reach you in perfect condition. With this artwork package, you can be sure that your paintings will arrive in top condition, ready to be hung up and admired.

Best Boats To Live On FAQs

How can I customize my boat to make it the best possible living space?

Customizing your boat to make it the best possible living space requires careful planning and consideration. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Assess your needs: Determine what you need in your living space. Do you need a full kitchen, bathroom, or sleeping area? Is storage important to you? Consider all of your needs before making any changes.

2. Plan your layout: Once you have assessed your needs, plan the layout of your boat. Consider the flow of the space and how you will move around in it. Make sure to maximize every inch of space.

3. Choose functional and durable materials: When selecting materials for your boat, choose options that are durable and can withstand the harsh marine environment. Look for materials that are resistant to saltwater, humidity, and UV rays.

4. Add storage: Storage is always crucial in any living space, but even more so in a boat. Look for ways to add extra storage, such as under-bed storage, built-in cabinets, and hanging storage.

5. Optimize lighting and ventilation: Proper lighting and ventilation are essential in a boat. Consider adding skylights, portholes, and fans to increase natural light and airflow.

6. Personalize your space: Finally, add your personal touch to make your boat feel like home. Add artwork, throw pillows, and other decor that reflects your style and personality.

By following these tips, you can customize your boat to make it the perfect living space for you.

How can I find the best deals on boats for living aboard?

Finding the best deals on boats for living aboard requires a bit of research and patience. First, determine your budget and the type of boat that will suit your needs. Research boat dealerships, online marketplaces, and classified ads to find potential options. Attend boat shows or talk to other liveaboards to gather information on different types of boats and their prices.

Once you have a list of potential boats, thoroughly inspect them to ensure they are in good condition and meet your needs. Hire a professional surveyor to conduct a thorough inspection and provide you with a report. Negotiate with the seller to get the best deal possible.

Consider purchasing a used boat as they are often priced lower than new boats. However, ensure that you thoroughly inspect the boat and are aware of any potential repairs that may need to be made.

Finally, be patient and do not rush into making a purchase. Take your time to find the best deal and ensure that the boat you choose is the right one for you and your lifestyle.

What are the benefits of living on a houseboat versus a traditional sailboat?

Living on a houseboat versus a traditional sailboat offers several benefits. Firstly, houseboats typically offer more living space and amenities, such as full kitchens, bathrooms, and multiple bedrooms. This makes them ideal for families or those who prefer a more spacious living environment.

Houseboats are also generally more stable and offer a smoother ride than traditional sailboats, which can be beneficial for those who are prone to seasickness. Additionally, houseboats are often equipped with more advanced technology and features, such as air conditioning and heating systems, making them more comfortable to live in year-round.

Another advantage of living on a houseboat is the ability to moor in a variety of locations, including marinas, rivers, and lakes. This provides greater flexibility and freedom to explore different areas and enjoy a variety of water-based activities.

Overall, while traditional sailboats can be a great option for those who prioritize mobility and flexibility, houseboats offer a more spacious and comfortable living experience, making them an appealing choice for those looking for a unique and relaxing lifestyle on the water.

What are the most affordable boats for living aboard?

Choosing a boat for living aboard can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to affordability. However, there are several options available that can fit the bill without breaking the bank. Sailboats are typically more affordable than motorboats, and they also tend to be more fuel-efficient. Some of the most affordable sailboats for living aboard include the Catalina 30, Hunter 31, and Islander 36. These boats offer ample living space and storage, making them perfect for long-term stays.

If you are looking for a motorboat, trawlers are a great option. They are slower than other motorboats but are more fuel-efficient and have a lot of space for living aboard. Some of the most affordable trawlers for living aboard include the Marine Trader 34, Grand Banks 32, and Mainship 34. They offer comfortable living spaces and can be great for long-term stays.

In conclusion, there are several affordable options available for living aboard a boat, whether you prefer a sailboat or a motorboat. It's important to do your research and find a boat that fits your budget and lifestyle preferences.

What are the most important features to look for when choosing a boat for living on?

When choosing a boat for living on, there are several important features to consider. First and foremost, it's important to choose a boat that is spacious enough to accommodate your needs. This includes the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and common areas. You'll also want to ensure that the boat has plenty of storage space for your belongings.

Another important feature to consider is the boat's durability and seaworthiness. You'll want to choose a boat that is built to withstand harsh weather conditions and has a reliable engine. It's also important to consider the boat's maintenance requirements and any potential repair costs.

Additionally, you'll want to choose a boat that is equipped with modern amenities such as a kitchen, heating and cooling systems, and entertainment options. You may also want to consider the boat's energy efficiency and whether it has solar panels or other eco-friendly features.

Finally, it's important to consider the cost of the boat and any associated fees such as docking and maintenance costs. By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a boat that is comfortable, reliable, and affordable for living on.

What are the most reliable boats for long-term living?

When it comes to choosing a boat for long-term living, reliability is key. You want a vessel that can withstand the elements and provide you with a comfortable and secure home. Some of the most reliable boats for long-term living include:

1. Trawler: Trawlers are known for their stability and endurance. They have a displacement hull, which makes them more fuel-efficient and comfortable in rough seas.

2. Sailboat: Sailboats are a popular choice for long-term living because they are self-sufficient and eco-friendly. They can be powered by wind and solar energy, and they are often designed with ample storage space.

3. Catamaran: Catamarans are spacious and stable, making them ideal for long-term living. They also have a shallow draft, which allows them to anchor in shallow waters.

4. Motor Yacht: Motor yachts are luxurious and comfortable, with plenty of amenities for long-term living. They also have powerful engines that can handle long distances.

Ultimately, the best boat for long-term living will depend on your personal preferences and needs. It's important to do your research and choose a vessel that is reliable, safe, and well-suited to your lifestyle.

What are the top rated boats for living aboard?

Choosing the right boat for living aboard depends on various factors such as budget, lifestyle and personal preferences. However, there are some boats that are well-known for their livability and comfort. One such boat is the Fountaine Pajot Helia 44, which offers spacious living areas, ample storage and a stable sailing experience. Another popular option is the Leopard 48, which boasts a modern design, plenty of natural light and a spacious cockpit. The Lagoon 450 is also a highly rated boat for living aboard, with its comfortable cabins, expansive outdoor areas and impressive performance on the water. Other top-rated boats for living aboard include the Beneteau Oceanis 60, the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 45 DS and the Bavaria Cruiser 46. It's important to do proper research and take the time to view and test out different boats before making a final decision.

What makes a boat ideal for living on full-time?

When considering a boat for full-time living, there are several factors to keep in mind. Firstly, the size of the boat matters. A boat that is too small won't provide enough living space, whereas a boat that is too large may be difficult to maneuver and maintain. A boat with a length of 40-50 feet is ideal for full-time living.

Another important factor is the layout of the boat. It should be designed in a way that maximizes space and provides all the necessary amenities, including a comfortable living area, a galley, a bathroom, and a bedroom. The boat should also have enough storage space for personal belongings and equipment.

The boat's systems are also crucial when it comes to full-time living. The electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems should be reliable and efficient. A boat with a generator, solar panels, and a watermaker system will provide the necessary power and water supply for comfortable living.

Lastly, the boat's location is important. It should be in a marina or anchorage with access to amenities like grocery stores, laundry facilities, and medical services. Overall, a boat that is well-designed, properly equipped, and located in the right area can make for an ideal full-time living situation.

What types of boats are best for living on in open water?

When it comes to living on a boat in open water, there are a few types of vessels that are better suited for this type of lifestyle. One of the most popular options is a sailboat, as they are designed to handle rough weather conditions and can be self-sufficient with the use of solar panels and wind generators. They also offer a more sustainable and eco-friendly way of living.

Another option is a trawler boat, which is a type of motorboat that is designed for long-distance cruising. Trawlers are known for their stability and comfort, making them a great option for living on the water. They also offer ample storage space and fuel efficiency, which can be important when living off the grid.

Lastly, catamarans are becoming increasingly popular for liveaboard lifestyles. They offer a spacious interior and stable platform for living on the water. They also have a shallow draft, making them ideal for exploring shallow waters.

Ultimately, the best type of boat for living on in open water will depend on personal preferences and requirements. It's important to consider factors such as budget, size, storage, and desired amenities before making a decision.

Which boats offer the most space and comfort for long-term living?

When it comes to boats that offer the most space and comfort for long-term living, there are several options to consider. One popular choice is a motor yacht, which typically has multiple levels and a spacious interior with plenty of amenities. This type of boat often includes features such as a full kitchen, multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, and a large living area for relaxation and entertainment.

Another option is a catamaran, which has a wide beam that provides ample living space. Catamarans often have multiple cabins, a spacious saloon, and an outdoor area for dining and lounging. They are also known for their stability and smooth sailing, making them a popular choice for long-term living.

Finally, a houseboat is designed specifically for living aboard and can offer a unique lifestyle experience. These boats often have a full kitchen, multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, and a large living area. They are typically moored in a marina or on a river, providing a unique way to enjoy waterfront living.

Overall, the best boat for long-term living will depend on personal preferences and needs. It's important to consider factors such as space, amenities, and the type of sailing or cruising that will be done to find the ideal vessel.