MAINTENANCE COSTS + Lessons Learned LIVING on a NEW SAILING CATAMARAN | Harbors Unknown Ep. 54

MAINTENANCE COSTS + Lessons Learned LIVING on a NEW SAILING CATAMARAN | Harbors Unknown Ep. 54
So many people dream about living on a boat and sailing around the world. It’s a big risk. You need to leave everything behind. Fabio retired early from a career as a surgeon, and a hospital executive. And I (Kristin) left a promising advertising career to chase that dream. Just over a year ago, that dream became a reality when we moved aboard our new Seawind 1600 catamaran. It hasn’t been without challenges, getting caught in storms, boat repairs, and learning to be self-sufficient. But the most valuable resource we have in this world is time. We wanted to make the most of our time here, experience everything this beautiful world has to offer and make an impact. So to make this easier for you guys, we’re sharing everything we’ve learned living on and sailing our new catamaran over 4000 nautical miles, the safety and comfort upgrades, how much it cost to maintain and run a new sailing catamaran for a year, and answer the question, would we do it again? Take the risk. Sell everything. Retire early. Leave family and friends to embrace this life of uncertainty and adventure.
If you enjoyed this video give it a thumbs up, leave a comment down below and be sure to subscribe to our channel. Thanks for watching!
VIDEO WITH WARRANTY PROCESS TIPS: • Buying a NEW BOAT for ...
VIDEO WITH SAFETY KIT TIPS: • Preparing for Offshore...
HARVESTING FOOD FROM THE SEA PLAYLIST: • Harvesting Food From t...
If you're new here, Harbors Unknown is the story of two dreamers, Kristin and Fabio Potenti, and our French Bulldog dog Yoda. We sold our home at the beginning of the pandemic (May 27th, 2020) and moved aboard our Seawind Catamarans boat, Wanderlust, in September, 2020. We're sailing her to Harbors Unknown, to explore the world’s vast cultures through food, a common thread amongst people everywhere. Connecting with people and places through the local cuisine, and showing how those dishes can be cooked on a boat with limited space and resources. We're sharing our adventures as a sailing couple living on a boat and how it’s possible to live an alternative lifestyle that provides freedom and fulfillment. We have set off on our voyage sailing around the world, after exploring the beautiful waters of South Florida, the Florida Keys, and the Bahamas. Subscribe now to join our sailing adventure.
#sailing #OffTheGrid #catamaran
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TIMECODES
00:00-01:03 Episode Intro
01:04-02:30 Initial Thoughts
02:31-04:41 Upgrades Made
04:42-11:52 Personal Key Takeaways
11:53-14:44 Cost of Owning & Maintaining a New Catamaran the First Year
14:45-15:33 Would We Do it Again?
15:34-16:53 Final Thoughts

[@Verb130]

Show the unglamorous, different, challenging side. The hard work, that for everything in life, makes the beautiful precious moments even more sweet.

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks for the feedback! We’ll work to include more of the day-to-day life. 😊

[@johnahern881]

I retired at 48. I bought a FP Lipari over in France and brought it over to Boston. I then sailed her (solo) down the east coast, Bahamas, etc. for 6 years living on her the whole time. I however flew back to Boston for about 2 months a year to see family, friends, holidays, etc. I owned a business and for the first two years I missed the “game” of business, deadlines, etc. After about 5 years I got burnt out of beaches, fixing problems in exotic locations, etc. I then bought a condo in Florida and cruised 6 months a year which was a good balance. I sold the catamaran and bought a Jeanneau 440 mono hull 2 years ago. I have maintained the 6 months cruising (although with Covid, its more like 3 months cruising and 3 months using the boat as a condo) and 6 months in the condo. People will never understand the work that goes into living aboard a boat. Certainly the pros outweighed the cons, but I will not live full time aboard a boat. Looking a head, I would like to buy a smaller powerboat and cruise parts of the great loop and ICW. Too many times like you said KZbinrs and boat shows only show the good times. They dont show the stresses of weather, things breaking at 2:00 am, sitting at anchor in 90 knot winds, items on the boat not working, etc. With that said, I have boated for 30 plus years, lived aboard full time for 6 years and would not trade it in. Good luck with your journey. BALANCE is the key.

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks so much for sharing your experience! It’s not so often you hear stories like yours. As you said balance is key and we’re working to maintain that. 😊

[@BarracudaHawk]

Great story John , were you alone on the boat for 6 years?

[@johnahern881]

@@BarracudaHawk 85% of the time it was just me with my dog. People would fly in and spend their vacation with me or take short hops with me. I did have 2 other people with me coming across the pond.

[@BarracudaHawk]

@@johnahern881 it sounds great though John and as someone said you’ll only ever regret what you didn’t do in life. Congratulations on your achievement

[@ReefRunner1]

Thanks for reminding folks that everything is about finding the right balance for each person's needs and wants. Was your decision to go to the Jeanneau 440 motivated by simplification, cost savings, better configuration or performance for your situation?

[@gbsailing9436]

Thank you SO MUCH for being honest enough to put yourselves out there with your costs, thoughts and emotions, together with your efforts putting in the time, sweat and tears to make this video possible. I'm not sure how many people would want their finances exposed to strangers as you have done here, so I personally am very thankful that you both have been happy to do this. I AM sure that there will be many that will be very thankful and appreciative for this video! GOD bless you both in your upcoming travels. I DO hope that things will be better this year, and less expensive - with only minimal repairs needed, if any!

[@HarborsUnknown]

We’re glad you appreciate the effort and candor. It was impossible for us to find this type of information when going through the boat buying process so we thought it would be helpful for others. Thanks for your support and for watching our videos!

[@walterhunter4011]

Good video. The best was you being honest and not sugarcoating the real issues. Maintenance is very important to your vessel and if doing at least your daily, weekly and monthly required maintenance will pay off between haul outs.

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thank you! We appreciate your comment. Most people don’t realize how much maintenance a boat requires 😊

[@SailingCAVU]

We briefly met in Annapolis during the KZbin panel change over. We are 9 months into the ownership of a new monohull and slowly shrinking our lives. I agree that the upgrades and outfitting of a new boat skews the first years of ownership. I'm scared to tally ours.

[@HarborsUnknown]

Hi there! Yes, we remember you. Nice to hear from you! Glad to hear it’s not just us. 🤣 Sometimes it’s better not to know. 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@donrumph1]

All the story, all the time. Exciting, boring, happy, sad, panicked and any thing else you can identify. Most of us are living vicariously thru you. Give us a fulfilling life - PLEASE!

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks so much for your feedback! We'll do our best! ☺

[@ileneturner6127]

Great video...very honest and informative! Fair winds....

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks Ilene! We’re so glad you enjoyed the video!!

[@rabukan5842]

Hi K&F! This is one of the most informative and honest cruising videos on KZbin, and it is so valuable! I was going to build my cat in Asia, but because of COVID, supply chain problems, rapidly rising costs, etc. that is not happening. Instead, I will be purchasing another used 50 footer and refitting it for longer travel, but not for full time living as I decided to purchase a condo (in the US) as a base for when I retire in 3 years. I think many people new to sailing don’t understand the costs involved in time, effort, and money. What you paid in maintenance and repairs is equal to the purchase price of a good older 30-35’ sailboat, and that’s constant as things always need fixing on boats. That is not cheap, and it is real. I restored my 50’ motor yacht for around that price (parts and my labor) and just sold it so I can purchase my sailboat, which will be another monohull as there are so many great deals out there on monohulls (which I enjoy sailing) because so many are wanting cats these days not realizing the increased docking costs, redundant engine maintenance, and after purchase costs of such a large vessel. Yes, the larger, the more expensive to maintain. Restoring the yacht taught me so much about boats in general, as in these trying times, just getting parts can be difficult. You have been so honest in showing us all what those costs actually are. Is it worth it? I think so, but full time live aboard sailing is a lot more involved than most realize. Thanks for your openness, and for sharing!

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thank you for your comment! We are happy to be able to provide some useful info for our subscribers, I agree with you, had we found a used boat to fit our needs we would have bought it, but the market for catamarans is now very tight and used boats cost as much as new. We are becoming stronger and learning how to fix stuff and enjoy life as full time cruisers. Thank you for your continuing support

[@rabukan5842]

@@HarborsUnknown You two are pretty amazing, and you record when you are learning, so we can see the learning curve. I agree, used cats have become so hard to come by for a good (even fair) price, and I think many of the channels make the cat seem so much better than a monohull. But I've always enjoyed sailing monohull, and feel that at this time, good monohulls can be found at bargain prices (even more so after the markets drop,) thanks to the cat craze. Once you have your boat zeroed in, your costs will drop, maybe even by 1/3? But with all boats, the costs are continuous. So aspiring sailors need to beware and have the reserves, which many don't. And the more mechanical skills you acquire, the better, as it's very difficult to have to rely on others to fix things, especially out at sea. Fair winds!

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thank you! Very valuable perspective. Please keep commenting on our videos!

[@rabukan5842]

@@HarborsUnknown You keep making them; I’m happy to respond…

[@mrjbbarker1947]

excellent information. Fabio, you seem out of your comfort zone with the mechanical repairs. It will only get better with time. Kristen, you look great.

[@HarborsUnknown]

With a spent in the OR and hospital there wasn’t much time to develop mechanical skills but Fabio’s working on it. With time, cursing and wine they’ll come. 😂 We’re glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for your support!

[@andrewmeikle283]

Many thanks guys awesome honest review. Keep it coming I love your channel no complaints for sure.

[@HarborsUnknown]

We’re so glad you enjoyed the video! Thanks so much for watching our channel and for your encouragement!

[@kathytegreene1562]

Thank you both so much for taking the time to make these videos. You are very good at it. We also got a new catamaran in 2020. Such a range of experiences and emotions. Now the anxiety has been replaced with more confidence. We gave a boat tour to a prospective catamaran buyer (for the manufacturer) and his family when we first got our boat. He brought his Father, who was in his 90’s. He was an experienced Sailor, full of advice. We joked with him that we wished he could come with us. He said, “ I will be there in my dreams.” Those memories last a lifetime. No regrets. Thanks again.

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks so much for the compliment and for watching our videos! Fortunately, we typically remember more of the good times. Best of luck with your adventures!

[@Peter_Herrman]

Your BEST video yet!

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks so much Peter!

[@nigelstretton4566]

Fantastic episode, a refreshing perspective that I struggle to find on other sailing channels, nicely delivered, congratulations for going in a different direction to the bulk of sailing channels who seem to be in a race to win the KZbin best videography award (if there is such a thing). I really appreciate content based on your actual life experience, raw and honest. Yoda’s a legend. Thanks for treating us all as adults and keep up the great work.

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks so much for your thoughtful comment Nigel! We’re trying to provide helpful information that we were searching for when we were going through the process. Yoda is clearly the best. 😂 We appreciate your support!

[@haroldconnell2973]

One of your best videos, it is great to see the good and the bad

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks so much Harold! We’ll definitely work to include more of the challenges.

[@michaelzotzky4378]

Hi Kristin and Fabio. Really enjoyed the video. We enjoy cruising every other year, for a 4-5 month period. So we haven't made the jump as you two have, but can relate to the maintenance, self-sufficiency, etc., if only for part time. Maybe we will see you in Bahamas, as we are tossing the dock lines in a couple of weeks. Oh, and our Seawind is now 3 years old, and I would say that we are finally done with warranty work, upgrades, modifications, etc. At least the major ones!

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thank you Michael, glad to know that it takes 3 years the get the boat tuned up, it’s good to know that here is light at the end of the tunnel! 😂😂. We are certainly looking forward to seeing you in the Bahamas. Thank you for your continued support

[@jordan0brown]

Thank you for the honesty, great video.

[@HarborsUnknown]

We’re so glad you enjoyed the video! Thanks for watching!

[@deniscloutier383]

great video. We are planing living on a cat in few years. So every infos, even day to day, are of great use to us. Thanks

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thank you! We’re so glad you enjoyed the video and found it helpful!

[@PrecisionSailLoftVictoria]

Great video guys! It's great to see what the cruising life is actually like.

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks so much!

[@timtrinkaus7072]

Excellent video providing feedback as new boat owners and new at the cruising lifestyle. I know the videos are super time consuming but I would try to show everything the good bad and the ugly as it documents your whole journey. You guys are doing fantastic and have come along ways and will continue to grow into your new life and continue to learn and adapt. New boats always have kinks to work out and upgrades needed it is part of the growing process you will have her dialed in soon. Fair winds be safe out there!

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks so much for your input Tim! I think we’ll be showing more day-to-day life as it seems people are interested in that. We truly appreciate your support!

[@jeffmooreD40]

Kristin & Fabio, Love the content, your boat and lots of excellent extras like B&G electronics! Your on my top 3 must watch VLOGs. Thanks!

[@HarborsUnknown]

Wow, that is so awesome to hear! We’re thrilled you’re enjoying the videos so much!! Thanks for the encouragement and support. 😊

[@abronskipg]

Totally enjoyed hearing your recap of your first year, thanks for sharing!

[@HarborsUnknown]

Hi Barbara!! It’s good to hear from you, thanks for watching

[@josemiguelsarmiento9359]

Very good video!! thank you so much!!

[@HarborsUnknown]

We’re glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching!

[@MK-gr9qz]

Realt good one, thanks🤟

[@HarborsUnknown]

We’re glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching!

[@johneubank237]

Great video you’re doing a good job. I’ve had a Sailboat for six years and yes every year you make changes and you spend money and it makes it more enjoyable and you learn along the way

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks John! We’re glad you enjoyed the video. It sounds like we’re on our way then! 😊

[@ednabella5162]

Best video of this type that I have watched. Keep up the great work. Really enjoy your channel.

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks so much Edna! That brought a smile to our face. We’re glad you enjoyed the video and appreciate your support!

[@federicorio]

Great video - we are just about to put our order in and these type of videos are so helpful! Grazie ragazzi! Siete un coppia bellissima e spero di conoscervi in barca presto.

[@HarborsUnknown]

Grazie Federico, siamo felici che il video ti sia piaciuto. Speriamo di incontrarci presto!

[@grahamtrembath4951]

Thanks for a very honest and informative piece. I hope Fabs finds more love for the cruising life in the future.

[@HarborsUnknown]

It’s our pleasure! We’re so glad you enjoyed the video. I’m sure as our repair skills improve that aspect will become less frustrating.

[@sailingsvwomble3173]

Love the authenticity and explained so well. Cruising has amazing highs which we share with everybody and desperate lows which we keep quiet about as it seems churlish to complain when we are externally living the life. However, it is frustrating, expensive and requires fortitude and problem solving skills to overcome self doubt, minimal support and maximum bureaucracy. At times any normal person is going to question if the effort is worth the reward. But I firmly believe that perseverance gets us to the right place, eventually, maybe, of course!!😃😃👊

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks so much! You said it much more eloquently. 😂 But in the end we agree!

[@jkmorphs]

I love this video. Looking forward to seeing where this journey takes the both of you, as well as hearing from Fabio whether or not he'd do it again. 😆

[@HarborsUnknown]

We’re so glad you enjoyed the video! We’re in for a rollercoaster ride. 😂

[@bayanicustodio3998]

Just in time. 👍🙂 For you guys to start your adventure.

[@HarborsUnknown]

Yes! Thanks for watching!!

[@dandjstack]

I like watching your ADVENTURES AND PLEASE keep cooking

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thank you David!!

[@1Electricmoon]

Great video, love to see the real you, that’s what make your videos unique. Oh yes… and the giggle’s, when things go wrong. 😊 Cheers Nigel

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks so much Nigel! We're glad you enjoyed the video, including the real in-between moments. 😂

[@BrianPKelly]

Your videos certainly have gotten better. I enjoy the dream of sailing you project. I appreciate your frankness and truth about the challenges you face. I would like more of the challenges so I can learn and avoid Thanks for sharing

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks Brian! We’re glad you enjoyed the video. We’ll include more of the challenges to so it’s a learning experience for everyone.

[@Anjinsan456]

Very very inspirational. And yes, it will great to see the “not so elegant” part of live full time aboard. Blessings for you two (sorry, three)

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thank you! Your comment brought a smile to our face. We'll try to include more of the challenges we face and how we tackle them. We truly appreciate your support and engagement!

[@corkson1744]

! This episode compelled me to like and subscribe. Very well done. I’ll bet other viewers will agree. I’m a sailor like you both, each day I get closer to full ownership of my catamaran that’s got 17 remaining months left before exiting charter program in the Caribbean. Perhaps we’ll wind up sharing an anchorage and greetings with you guys one day in some far off place. Appreciate your attitude and all that you communicated in this video. Very inspirational. A sincere thanks.

[@HarborsUnknown]

We are so glad to hear that you enjoyed the video and subscribed! Sounds like you have an exciting adventure on the horizon. We hope to one day share an anchorage. Thanks for watching!

[@davegreene3706]

Thanks for this video. It was great to get to know you both a people. The financial information was nice but getting to meet more human to human. Thanks again. Namaste.

[@HarborsUnknown]

We’re glad you felt like you got to know us a bit better. Thanks for watching! Namaste 🙏

[@geoffthefarmer]

Great video. Boats cost so much money but I still love it.

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thank you! Yes, it’s a definitely a love/hate relationship but love wins. ❤️

[@shuzoskates]

Very inspired! You showed us lots of important messages Boat life may enhance the onshore life more clearly Key words are also applied for our daily life I am always admiring you guys thoughts Great expenditure needs such basic thoughts, I think 😊

[@HarborsUnknown]

We’re so glad you enjoyed the video Hiro! Thanks for the compliments!

[@SGudur]

Simply loved this Ep... And the best part was the smelly one.. You know, there is a proverb in my language, "There is no but in the world that doesn't fart".. Hahahahaha.. Second best was, he is a surgeon!! Never says anything straight! He just mentions the "available life" in numbers!! So, we have 365! ;-) hahahaha

[@HarborsUnknown]

😂😂 We thought Yoda's contribution was the best, at least, funniest part as well! Thanks for your comment and for watching our channel. We're so glad you enjoyed the video!

[@billyrusk5645]

Boating always has its ups and downs seems like you two are handling it well. keep it going !

[@HarborsUnknown]

We’re trying to roll with the punches and focus on the great experiences instead of the challenges. Thanks for your support!

[@ElGringoLoco]

I think, that of all of your talking points, fulfillment is the key to personal, shared and life success. Many, if not all of the other points, can be anticipated, budgeted and accomplished with the right planning and, of course, advice from those who have forged those paths before you. Inasmuch as maintenance and repairs, stocking your boat with vital spares, which parts/equipment is best, where to buy it, +/- what it costs, where to best get it shipped on your particular route, finding responsible and qualified labor... and a thousand other "unknowns"... I can't think of anything that can't be found here on KZbin. Your chat today is a perfect example of this. I was planning to see you guys and others at this year's boat show in Annapolis last October, but I was confronted with a "situation" at an olive grove I am co-owner of in Cádiz, Spain and reluctantly "crossed the pond". Maybe we can coordinate and raise a glass together somewhere and sometime in the future. Stay safe, stay real, and stay committed to your beautiful dream.

[@HarborsUnknown]

We also think fulfillment is the key. As you said everything else can be planned for and taken in stride but without that it’s difficult. We hope to raise a glass together someday, until then, cheers!

[@ThiagoMaiaSs]

Interesting perspective, specially for someone considering this lifestyle as an option.

[@HarborsUnknown]

We’re glad you found the video interesting! Thanks for watching!

[@rjbowman52]

Very helpful

[@HarborsUnknown]

We’re glad you enjoyed the video! Thanks for watching!

[@rjbowman52]

@Harbors Unknown It's all good advice to me as I've got a Sewind 1260 on order for delivery late 2024. My last boat was a 43' Robert's ketch, so I do agree with you about the maintenance, and I built the thing.

[@rainfinger]

Your perception of the reality of cruising is spot-on, having circumnavigated in the 1980s, my wife and I are cruising again, sailing as we speak in the Bahamas. The video documentary of your life is almost like literature in the feel and presentation of a very-complex subject. Please keep it up, presenting truth in your "highlight reel" is easily digestible, and something you do very well.

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks so much for the wonderful compliment! It brought a smile to our face. We’re glad to hear you’re out cruising again. It’s a testament to the magnetism of this lifestyle. Thanks for watching and for your support!

[@stephenandrews8445]

Glad you're finding your footing and ironing out some of the early kinks. We plan to hit the water in 4 years and itching to get out of the 🐀 race. We can't wait to see all your adventures unfold. Go enjoy them 💪 , we will just have to eat our 🍿 in the meantime 😆

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks so much for watching our videos! We are 🍿 for a long time but are happy to be living it now. Good luck with your plans!

[@ohrosberg]

Your best video yet! Congratulations. Your storytelling gets better and better, and you are slowly getting comfortable being "just yourselves" and that is great! The more you can make your videos feel less scripted and more - "just us" if you get my drift - the better. And remember, when you get to 100 000 subscribers in a year or so, you can hire an editor to do all the hard work ;) I love your channel, and I do want you to succeed and become one of the major sailing channels on KZbin. You can do it, and I'll root for you (and of course, being a Norwegian - double so...) :)

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks so much! We’re trying to be more natural in front of the camera. The more we do it the easier it will get. We appreciate your support and encouragement!

[@ohrosberg]

@@HarborsUnknown You did some great improvements in this video, and yes - you'll get more and more relaxed over time. And also, getting some insight into your past lives in the hospital and in marketing was also great! I'm rooting for you two, keep going... :)

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks for the insight! It’s helpful to know what people enjoy about the videos.

[@the_ayesha_khan]

Great video guys, and good to see you go off-piste with the poops! Thanks both keep going, we love you!

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks! We’re so glad you enjoyed the video. It definitely gave us a laugh!

[@the_ayesha_khan]

Quick question guys, I know you mentioned the challenges with the flexi-teak. Would you say you have the same issue with the desk und cover in the cockpit? Or does that age better and stay cleaner? Thanks in advance.

[@HarborsUnknown]

Because the flexiteak in the cockpit gets the most wear it’s not super clean but it doesn’t have the same mold issue as the head. If you dedicate time to scrub it often I’m sure it would be cleaner but we have so much going on that’s not possible for us. We’ve gotten used to it now so we’re ok with it.

[@nessuno1948]

To make life at sea complete you should learn the art of navigation as it was in use till the eighties, nineneties.....Imagine failure of the electronics.....It gives you a lot of intellectual satisfaction.

[@HarborsUnknown]

We would love to! Perhaps once we get into a groove cruising this next season we’ll be able to.

[@admir_]

First, you are wonderful people! Thanks for sharing your experiences - there is something in your style that makes it more authentic and down to earth, compared to click-bait sailing channels. To your question about sharing "boring" stuff - perhaps you can make a video or two and see how it is received? There could be some folks that complain, but probably the vast majority would appreciate to see the less glamorous side. In any case, keep on keeping on and best wishes!

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thank you Admir, it takes one wonderful person to recognize another! We appreciate your comments and we will try to incorporate more regular daily stuff and see what happens. We are so happy and comments like yours make our day more meaningful

[@jafcanedo]

Great video! Congratulations on speaking about day-to-day costs and how you two make decisions on activities vs videos. Definitely one your best videos. And do you see yourselves back on land in 20-25 years? Thx

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks so much Jorge! We're glad you enjoyed the video. Yes, we'll most likely be back on land in 20-25 years. We're planning for about 10-15 at this point.

[@randyrable2113]

Best work yet. Nice presentation of the other side of boat life, but no cooking?

[@HarborsUnknown]

😂😂 We’re trying to keep the videos a bit shorter. There will be some cooking coming up. Thanks for watching!

[@sailingsvwomble3173]

And another thing! Your point about the cruising community is spot on. None of us can do this on our own and the selfless support we have had from so many people, including yourselves, makes it all the more worthwhile.

[@HarborsUnknown]

That is 100% true! We have seen such gracious support from so many people that we never experienced before.

[@HeidiandFranny]

Wow! Great video :) Really liked it! It is super helpful to hear your experiences and your honesty. I'm sorry the maintenance was intense for you this last year. I think maybe you had a bit more than your fair share. But that is such a common theme. Fabio, I totally get your reservation at the end and really do appreciate you not sugar coating it. There is so much on the line and it is such a drastic change it takes a serious eye and attention. We are in somewhat of a similar situation and the thought of cashing in our whole hand for a completely new set of cards is terrifying (and exciting). Can we do it? Will we like it? Will it be worth it?? Your video is so helpful because you address these concerns for yourself. Anyhoo, thanks so much and, again it was such a treat to chat with you at the boat show. I hope we can someday soon meet up with you out on the water :) Take car and safe travels, f

[@HarborsUnknown]

We’re so glad you enjoyed the video! We thought this would be of particular interest to you. We had a similar conversation with another couple the other day. How do you know when to pull the trigger? In our case the thought of having to wait another two years if we didn’t commit then was enough to push us over the edge. If you don’t like it, you can always sell the boat and do something else. 🤷🏼‍♀️ But you have to be ok with that. You’ll know when you’re ready. 😊

[@HeidiandFranny]

@@HarborsUnknown It was super helpful! Thanks again :)

[@HarborsUnknown]

Our pleasure!

[@wesleyooms]

Good to know there's so much maintenance cost in the first year for a new boat. I expected it to be more like a new car. A new car needs very few maintenance just because it's new. I'm looking for a boat but will take this into account to not blow my whole budget on the purchase of the boat but also keep enough for the first years.

[@HarborsUnknown]

We didn’t realize it either so we felt it was important to share. We’re glad you found the information helpful! Thanks for watching!

[@deedee55686]

Hi guys! Nicely done, beautiful. I think showing the every day stuff is good. You may think it’s boring but to others it is more real & relatable, like when Yoda passed gas. Hilarious reaction from you both! It was natural & funny. Is there a way you could spend less time editing so you can spend more time together? Maybe take the less hard on yourself& less perfectionist approach? Keep it simple and see what happens. Love you guys!❤️

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks so much Denise! We’re going to try & work in more everyday stuff. It’s hard to find a balance because we’re both perfectionists but I’m sure as I get better at editing I’ll have to spend less time. We truly appreciate your input. Thanks for watching!! ❤️

[@WillN2Go1]

Helpful? Well... ah... for me this video is a bit like Dickens' a Christmas Carol, "Will, we are the ghost of your sailing future..... " Gulp... but full steam ahead. This video is very helpful, a bit sobering. No one sails who doesn't love a challenge. As long as Fabio is still smiling I figure have at least a chance of surviving. Yoda seems pampered; Kristin unsinkable. 'Stronger pumps on the heads' and 'second autopilot -- installed' just got added to the list - and underlined. Thank you.

[@HarborsUnknown]

Hi Will! We’re glad you found this video helpful. As long as you can roll with the punches you’ll be ok. Thanks for watching!

[@trueconspiracies7945]

Simply put, I'm jealous

[@HarborsUnknown]

It is a great boat. Thanks for watching!

[@RonProvinge]

More day to day

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@DCGULL01]

It's hard to remember that not only were you genuinely new to sailing, you were also new to this catamaran. Planning for ocean passages & long coastal journeys is difficult (head sizing, pumps, valves & autopilot mounting) but defining 'needs': H2O making, energy, battery sizing & make, flexiteak strengths & weaknesses, etc... And, even owners can't agree on many of these things! Arggghhhh. Plus, desiring a little safety margin in the auto pilot is completely normal- to have yours go out on the North bound trip & take so long to repair must've been frustrating to say the least. Then, of course, is the sailor confidence & competence variances- he's better at this, she's not so good at this & vice versa can create added frictions under pressure. Traveling with a pet is an added stressor... Thanks for 'posting up' and sharing your experience- very valuable for the next cruiser!

[@DCGULL01]

Gosh, you guys are so close to reaping the rewards of all of your hard work & crazy dollars spent. I appreciate the good doctor 'taking the fifth' on would he do it again, but- the shell shocked look that you both had on occasion during the first say 15 months is clearly wearing off, natural & genuine smiles are coming back- NOW- let the adventures begin! You changed EVERYTHING from wake up routine to 'what is normal' on any given day' and that ain't easy for anyone! To do it alone together (with neither being a reference for what is normal in boating life) is even more difficult. I applaud you BOTH for doing it and getting there! Congratulations, you've survived the sea's boot camp (although it was close there a couple of times). For sure, you aren't grizzled sea dogs, but- you aren't starry eyed dreamers anymore either. You know that time in pretzel shaped positions holding strange tools is 'daily living' & boat repair is between 10 -2... (Well, it was for me? Although I did have marathon days of boat repairs!) Sunrises & sunsets & unusual mixed drinks with exciting names is 0.00001% of 'actual time' & that helming in cold wet rainstorms is the OTHER 99.99991% Hahaha. Land legs, heat on in a car in the Summer just to warm up & a hot shower/ normal bed have new meaning to you! But dreamers can't appreciate fixing your windex on your masthead at 6am & partying in Newport, RI the same night is not only possible- but, probable if you live on a boat.

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thank you David! You are completely correct, albeit not new to sailing (this is our third boat and we have a few thousand miles on our previous boats) this is our first real cruising experience with all the issues that you describe so eloquently! Thanks for being with us in this journey

[@JohnDallaire]

Guys I love your video style. My question is not if you would do this again but if you would buy brand new again?

[@HarborsUnknown]

We would definitely buy a Seawind 1600 again, had there been a used one available we would have definitely preferred it but the used inventory was non existent at that time and only now you see one for sale and it sales in days. Thanks for watching our videos and following our channel

[@MrTCela]

And we cook a lot! Lol what an understatement, one day you will beat Bobby Flay with your casseroles, chicken and veggies- Fabio would you like to operate on ppl with 4 morbidities or producing great content and making the rest of the sailing community dream about the day to give up the rat race and do whatever you like and nature gives!? Dude you have everything, no need to look back- I cannot wait to hit my number and have my boat- in bocca al’ luppo e venti buoni! Kristin it was a please shaking your hand in Annapolis- I cannot wait to see your next vlogs

[@HarborsUnknown]

😂😂 thanks for the reality check and the compliments! This is definitely the better choice! It was great meeting you as well. Thanks so much for following our journey and for your support!!

[@rondrizek]

You earned another subscriber! Your content caught our attention as my wife and I are about to embark on a very similar journey, with similar backgrounds. I'm retiring as a physician at age 54. We are purchasing a new Balance 442 Catamaran and it should be completed middle part of next year. Neither of us have any sailing experience other than some sailing classes and a couple of weeks in the US Virgin Islands and BVI. It was nice to hear that neither of you have strong regrets and did find it fulfilling? Our plan is to start on the East coast, Caribbean, and then venture around the world. Do you have plans to do more than the Caribbean? Seawind products were definitely on our radar when looking at purchases. As our boat is still in the build phase, do you have any recommendations? You had a number of upgrades in the first year. Any regrets on not having those placed by the factory at the time of construction? Any other thoughts or advice is welcome. I saw the comment about insurance cost of $6000. Any advice on helping keep this cost down? I've heard much higher estimates. I hope you continue making videos and sharing your journey.

[@HarborsUnknown]

Awesome! Thanks for subscribing and congrats on your upcoming adventure! The Balance is an incredible boat. The one thing we wish we’d done at the factory is have a backup autopilot installed that can be turned on with a switch. We didn’t do that and now it’s nearly impossible without major work. We ordered an additional autopilot but will have to swap it manually if the installed one fails. Be sure to check how the life raft is installed and if you need to put it in when the boat is on the hard or if it can be done while in the water. We’ve found $6k for insurance is on the low end. In fact, the year before when we were in Florida for hurricane season it was $14k. The way to keep it lower is to stay out of hurricane areas during the season. We do plan to go through the Panama Canal to the South Pacific after the Caribbean. We’ll see how things go!

[@rondrizek]

@@HarborsUnknown We will probably be a few years behind you, but our paths may cross. Safe travels and thank you for the information.

[@HarborsUnknown]

Yes, hopefully one day our paths will cross. Best of luck!

[@kirkb3473]

Great video! Question: can you tell me why you felt the need for a 3rd chart plotter on the inside of the boat vs. just using an iPad (or other tablet) that's linked to one of the plotters at the helms?

[@HarborsUnknown]

Good question, we could have certainly done with an IPad but in our experience the B&G app is unstable when it come to controlling the autopilot. When we are inside during bad weather we want to have reliable way to do some course correction. Thank you for your comments and for watching our videos

[@kirkb3473]

@@HarborsUnknown okay good to know! would you still go with B&G overall vs. their competitors? Also, I know a bunch of us really appreciate your honest reveal of expenses. I understand why you omitted some items as they will vary by individual choices, but it would be helpful for people to understand they whole picture for what the lifestyle costs from year to year. I'd imagine you'll see years 2-3 costs go down drastically.

[@HarborsUnknown]

Yes, we would still go with B&G because it’s tailored for sailing. We didn’t include food, restaurants, and more personal expenses because that will vary and Fabio was still working until June so we were more land based than we plan to be in the future. We also expect our costs to go down as we cruise & live on anchor more.

[@kirkb3473]

@@HarborsUnknown okay thanks for the information! I can completely understand why Fabio is holding off judgment for the lifestyle since he was still working, plus dealing with all the challenges of sorting out a new boat. Looking forward to future updates, good luck!

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thank you!

[@BarracudaHawk]

Really enjoyed your video. Did you mention insurance on your boat in your expenses? Maybe I missed it.

[@HarborsUnknown]

Ahh, you’re right! We talked about it when prepping for the video then forgot to include it. It was $6,000 for the year for the eastern US and Bahamas, but we had to stay outside of the hurricane belt June 1st- November 1st. Staying outside the hurricane belt saved us about $8,000.

[@BarracudaHawk]

@@HarborsUnknown hi thanks for that information that’s great. Keep up the good work guys!

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thank you!

[@Pires1954]

I follow your channel since the begin and I can see something that you didn’t mention: compare yourselves with Kristin and Fabio 18 months ago! How much younger are you now? How much more confident are you now? Do you feel it or I am wrong?

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thank you Antonio! We certainly feel younger and stronger with a more active life and more time spent outdoors. Thanks for your comments and for being with us from the beginning

[@dougmarder]

YODA! Bad girl. Very, very few channels, of any topic, show life "dog farts and all." As I am sure you have learned from your creator-friends, sad does not sell. You will have to choose whether you are doing these videos to earn an income or to be a rewarding hobby that just helps to top-off the cruising kitty. I would love you to show real life, in as close to real time as possible; but, that is not going to work for you if you are trying to compete with La Vagabonde and Delos, et al. Thanks again for sharing!

[@HarborsUnknown]

Very interesting perspective, though it obviously makes sense. I suppose the way some real life is included is by making it the "challenge" the characters have to overcome. Thanks for watching Doug!

[@ready4utoplayw]

How much is the boat insurance? I did not see in your video ,I may have missed .

[@HarborsUnknown]

It’s $6,000 for the Eastern US coast and Bahamas. We talked about it and then forgot to include it. 🤦🏼‍♀️

[@rightright6582]

B&G Replacement Hydraulic Ram T3 Function: Allows Auto Pilot Power Steer Mode during Manual Steering Failure. Did u have a steering failure? Please explain why is T3 and T2 are important.

[@HarborsUnknown]

We didn’t have a steering failure. The T2 & T3 are types of B&G autopilot RAM. These are different size RAM’s (T3 is larger) used to steer the boat to a set course or wind angle. It makes long passages much easier because you don’t have to hand steer the whole time. Does this make sense?

[@rightright6582]

@@HarborsUnknowncorrection: U advice that T3 n T2 , should be ordered from factory as an option; the Google definition is wrong as it relates to steering failure.

[@HarborsUnknown]

Yes, ideally it would be ordered from the factory as an option. The Google definition is a bit strange. 🧐

[@rightright6582]

@@HarborsUnknown thank you...

[@xavpil2]

Such a helpful video that I am now considering NOT moving forward with my plan for my wife and I to buy a catamaran and liveaboard…. I was pretty much expecting all the things you mentioned, but definitely not the costs…. I think I am cancelling the surveyor that was supposed to go see a FP Mahé 36 in Yarmouth next week!!!! I am a pro video editor/camera op and I can tell you that the video is super well produced. Maybe too much actually. SInce you mention not having too much time for editing and all, I would keep the story telling structure you have, and take down the quality of the editing. I know it’s hard to lower your standards, but people care more about the content and this will free you time. Lastly, you guys are very engaging when you interact and talk to camera (not when you read cards of course, but who would). NOw that you woke me up from my dream you better give me tips on how to explain to my wife why we are staying home! Or you invite us onboard ! :-)

[@HarborsUnknown]

Don’t kill your dream!!! We want to see you out here with us spending your hard earned cash fixing your boat and fighting salt corrosion, chafe, electrolysis, gel coat cracks. 😂😂😂. Then when you get to the South Pacific and French Polynesia you can scratch your bug bites and carry jerry cans of fuel from gas stations to your boat, while cursing us: “go sailing they said, it will be fun they said. Mystery loves company! Don’t let us be the only one who have all the fun. Thanks for the editing tips for watching our videos, for commenting and for making us chuckle today!! Unfortunately you know you were bitten by the sailing bug and there is no way out!! Remember that the highs are so high and the lows are so low the these emotions cannot be replaced by anything else.

[@xavpil2]

🤣Well.... it's definitely killed. We are looking at monohulls now. As for Tahiti, I hope to see you there one day. I actually lived in Bora Bora for a year and my wife and I also chartered between the islands. Hope you are well

[@HarborsUnknown]

Looking forward to see you out there!! You did not kill a dream, you got rid of a hull! Cut your troubles in a half 😂

[@6800891]

I'm 58 yo and hope to retire in a couple of years and would consider the same adventure. For the benefit of folks like me, if you could go back in time, with all your acquired knowledge and wisdom, what things could we do in preparation to make the transition smoother over that first 18months of cruising?

[@HarborsUnknown]

Hi Troy! The thing that has plagued us the most is not knowing how to troubleshoot and fix different things on board. So I suppose familiarizing yourself with electrical systems, or the plumbing systems, engines, etc. would probably help. Every boat is different but I think it's more understanding how they work in general. We took a Nigel Calder diesel engine course at a boat show, which I suppose was helpful in some ways. If we could go back I might join a sailing club to connect with other sailors and try to learn from them.

[@6800891]

@@HarborsUnknown Thanks for experience based advice. May your adventure keep getting more fulfilling as you learn more and more!

[@HarborsUnknown]

It’s our pleasure. Thanks so much!

[@bernstir]

For life on-board content would love to see more cooking content! Your previous kitchen essential video was awesome.

[@HarborsUnknown]

We’re so glad you you enjoy the cooking content! Fabio LOVES to cook. Thanks for watching!

[@davidgravlin6518]

Insurance cost?

[@HarborsUnknown]

1.5% of vessel value!😱😱

[@idahobob180]

Fabio what happen I can't believe it's not butter, your golden hair is gone

[@HarborsUnknown]

😂 I have incurred that and other losses!! Thanks for watching and for your comments

[@davidg2651]

Oh vay, Frenchie farts, from my experience they are the worst :)

[@HarborsUnknown]

🤣🤣 Frenchie farts ARE the worst!

[@johnbhodi3785]

I would like to see all the mistakes, problems, things you don't like about how the boat was designed, about things that break. This way, I can learn from your experience!

[@HarborsUnknown]

Hi John, thank you for watching. We have recently posted a video with our 3 year review on the vessel including what we like and what we don’t like. Are you building your own boat?

[@johnbhodi3785]

@@HarborsUnknown I am looking to purchase a new Seawind 1270. So your videos are very relevant to my goals!

[@HarborsUnknown]

Thank you for watching! We are very happy to help!