Cruising Costs: What Live-Aboards Actually Spend Per Month

How much does it actually cost to live aboard and cruise? The answer varies wildly based on where you cruise, how you cruise, and what you consider essential. Real numbers from experienced cruisers provide better guidance than marketing fantasies.

The Boat Payment Reality

Many cruisers own their boats outright before casting off. Those with payments face monthly obligations regardless of cruising plans. A $400,000 boat financed at 7% creates roughly $3,000 monthly payments before spending anything on actual cruising.

Buying a smaller, less expensive boat that you own free and clear often makes more sense than financing your dream yacht. Cruising freedom comes from low fixed costs.

Ongoing Expenses

Fuel costs depend entirely on cruising style. Sailboat cruisers might spend $200-400 monthly on diesel for charging, motorsailing, and occasional motoring. Trawler cruisers should budget $500-1,500 monthly depending on vessel size and cruising pace.

Marina fees vary from free anchoring to $3-5 per foot per night in expensive locations. Budget cruisers anchor predominantly; those wanting amenities should budget $300-1,000 monthly for occasional marina stays.

Provisioning costs roughly parallel land-based grocery budgets plus a premium for remote locations. Budget $400-800 monthly for two people eating primarily aboard with occasional restaurant meals.

Maintenance Reality

The industry rule of thumb—10% of boat value annually for maintenance—proves remarkably accurate. A $200,000 boat averages $20,000 yearly in repairs, upgrades, and maintenance. Some years cost less; others shock you with major expenses.

DIY skills dramatically reduce this figure. Cruisers who handle their own engine work, electrical projects, and fiberglass repairs spend far less than those hiring everything out.

Bottom Line

Realistic budgets for modest cruising: $2,000-3,500 monthly for a couple on a paid-for boat cruising inexpensively. Comfortable cruising with marina time and restaurant meals: $4,000-6,000 monthly. These figures exclude health insurance, boat payments, and major repairs.