Imagine waking up every morning to the gentle sway of the water, sea breeze in your hair and a stunning view of the sunrise. Living on a boat may sound like an adventurous dream come true, but it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. From navigating choppy waters to dealing with limited storage spaces, there are several things you need to consider before taking this unique lifestyle leap. In this blog post, we’ll discuss ten crucial factors that can make or break your living-on-a-boat experience in the UK.
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#1 Location. Where Can You Live on a Boat in the UK?
If you’re considering living on a boat in the UK, there are a few things you should take into account. First, of course, is location. Where do you want to moor your boat? There are many options available, from marinas to river moorings to canals. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to do your research and decide what’s best for you.
Another thing to consider is weather. The UK is known for its unpredictable weather, and that can be a challenge when you’re living on a boat. You need to make sure your boat is well-equipped for all types of weather conditions, and that you have a plan for dealing with bad weather when it hits.
Finally, you need to think about the practicalities of living on a boat. How will you power your boat? What will you do for drinking water? How will you deal with waste? These are all important questions that need to be considered before making the move to life on the water.
#2 The Costs of Living on a Boat
One of the big questions people ask when they are considering living on a boat is ‘how much will it cost me?’ and ‘Is it expensive to live on a boat UK?’. The truth is, there is no easy answer to this question as it all depends on your individual circumstances. However, in this blog post we will attempt to give you an overview of some of the costs you may need to consider if you are thinking about living on a boat in the UK.
The first cost you need to think about is the purchase price of the boat itself. Obviously, the size and type of vessel you choose will have a big impact on how much it costs. You also need to factor in things like mooring fees and insurance. These costs can vary considerably depending on where in the UK you plan to live onboard your boat.
Another key cost to consider is self-sufficiency. If you want to be completely independent, then you will need to generate your own power and water. This can be done through solar panels and rainwater harvesting, but it will obviously come at an additional cost.
Of course, there are other costs associated with living on a boat that you need to consider, such as food and fuel. However, these costs are relatively small when compared to the overall cost of living on land. In fact, many people who live on boats find that they save money in the long run as they no longer have any housing-related expenses.
#3 Living on a Boat – Maintenance
It is important to maintain your boat regularly to ensure it remains in good condition. This includes checking the hull, engine and sails for any wear and tear. You should also clean the decks and superstructure to prevent the build-up of dirt and grime.
If you live on your boat permanently, you will need to carry out more extensive maintenance tasks such as painting the hull and replacing worn-out parts. This can be costly, so it is important to factor this into your budget.
#4 Living on a Houseboat – Solving the Storage Problem
If you’re considering living on a boat in the UK, there are a few things you need to take into account when it comes to storage. First of all, you need to make sure that your boat has enough storage for all of your belongings. You’ll also need to consider how easy it is to access your stored items, as well as how secure they are.
When it comes to storing your belongings on a boat, there are a few different options available. You can either choose to store them below deck, or above deck. Below deck storage is usually more limited, but it can be more secure. Above deck storage is more accessible, but it’s important to make sure that your belongings are properly secured so they don’t blow away in bad weather.
Another thing to consider when it comes to storage on a boat is whether or not you have space for everything you need. If you’re planning on living on your boat full-time, you’ll need to make sure that you have enough space for all of your clothes, bedding, food, and other essentials. If you’re only using your boat occasionally, then you might be able to get away with less storage space.
Finally, you’ll need to think about security when it comes to storing your belongings on a boat. If you’re keeping valuables onboard, you’ll want to make sure that they’re properly locked away so they can’t be stolen.
#5 Seasonal Considerations
The UK is a country with four distinct seasons, and each one brings its own challenges and considerations for those living on a boat.
In winter, the weather can be harsh, with high winds and heavy rains. This can make living on a boat very difficult, and it’s important to make sure your vessel is well-prepared for the conditions. You’ll also need to be extra vigilant about things like flooding and ice build-up.
Spring is a more pleasant time of year, but it can still be unpredictable. You’ll need to be cautious of storms and high winds, but overall it’s a good time to enjoy being out on the water.
Summer is the best time of year for most people living on a boat. The weather is usually warm and sunny, making it perfect for spending time outdoors. However, you’ll need to be aware of the risk of thunderstorms and heatwaves.
Autumn can be a beautiful time of year, but it’s important to remember that the weather can start to turn cold again from October onwards. It’s worth being prepared for this by stocking up on supplies and making sure your boat is in good condition.
#6 Legalities
There are a few things to consider from a legal standpoint when living on a boat in the UK. First, boats are subject to VAT if they are used for private pleasure crafts, which is typically 20%. If you plan to live on your boat permanently, you will also need to register it as a permanent place of residence with your local council and pay council tax. Additionally, boats must have valid boat insurance at all times.
Boat licences and fees
You usually need a boat licence.
This costs around £500 to £1,000 per year and gives you permission to use the waterways.
You must display the licence on both sides of your boat.
You also need to pay a mooring fee if you rent a mooring.
Conclusion
Living on a boat can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it is important to consider all of the things that must be taken into account before making such a big decision. Ensure you have consulted with local council and marina staff, accounted for your costs, considered available storage space and understand what regulations are in place when living on a vessel. The tips provided in this article should help you decide whether or not life afloat is for you!
