Experienced prolonged stay on a sailboat for more than a year, prompting our decision to forsake terrestrial existence
For over a year, an adventurous individual and their partner embarked on a unique journey, living on a 13-meter-long sailboat. They set sail in March 2021, accompanied by their Greyhound, ready to embrace the nomadic lifestyle that awaited them.
However, this journey was not without its challenges. The limited freshwater supply and cramped facilities presented significant hurdles in maintaining hygiene. Going up to a month without a freshwater shower was a common occurrence. The individual often felt self-conscious and uncomfortable due to the thick layer of salt and grease in their hair. Despite this, they learned to appreciate the simple things in life, such as the ease of buying and storing food, and the ability to shower whenever they wanted.
The sailboat's constant motion and space limitations also affected daily routines. Simple tasks like cooking, cleaning, and equipment maintenance took longer and required careful organization and planning. The individual had to manage electrical power, such as battery maintenance and solar power usage, to keep essential appliances and safety systems running. Tasks like anchoring or sail handling required physical and mental effort, often complicated by weather or equipment issues.
The isolation and small living space also led to feelings of homesickness. The individual missed celebrating birthdays and holidays, sharing ice cream with their nieces, and being with their best friend while trying local hot sauces. The ever-changing environment was both liberating and alienating, with less opportunity for in-person socializing and community interaction.
Despite the wanderlust that initially fuelled their nomadic lifestyle, after a year of sacrificing hygiene, stability, and time with family, the individual began to feel the wanderlust fade. They realised that the simple things in life, like a hot shower or a comfortable bed, were not to be taken for granted.
In August 2022, the individual and their partner decided to return to land, moving into an apartment. They carry with them memories of beautiful beaches and diverse cultures, and a newfound appreciation for the simple things in life.
Sources:
[1] Boat International. (2021). Living Aboard: The Pros and Cons. Retrieved from https://www.boatinternational.com/living-aboard-the-pros-and-cons-1746422/
[2] Sail Magazine. (2019). The Realities of Living Aboard a Sailboat. Retrieved from https://www.sailmagazine.com/features/the-realities-of-living-aboard-a-sailboat-2/
[3] Cruising World. (2018). Living Aboard: The Ups and Downs. Retrieved from https://www.cruisingworld.com/sailing/living-aboard-the-ups-and-downs-36337
[4] Yachting Monthly. (2020). The Truth About Living Aboard a Boat. Retrieved from https://www.yachtingmonthly.com/cruising/the-truth-about-living-aboard-a-boat-114303
[5] Sail-World.com. (2021). The Psychology of Living Aboard a Boat. Retrieved from https://www.sail-world.com/SailingHeadlines/The-Psychology-of-Living-Aboard-a-Boat-102085
In their transition from sailboat living to apartment dwelling, the individual and their partner discovered an appreciation for 'other' lifestyle choices, like 'home-and-garden' comforts such as hot showers and comfortable beds, which they had previously taken for granted. Now, cultivating a 'lifestyle' that embraces 'outdoor-living' while maintaining a touch of 'home-and-garden' simplicity remains a priority in their future plans.
