Living On A Boat On The Norfolk Broads Full Time Norfolk Broads Forum

Navigating Norfolk Broads Boat Living: Key Insights from Four Years Aboard.
For the past four years, my life has been a continuous journey on a boat. While I won't claim to be an expert, the wealth of experience I've accumulated during this time is worth sharing. In this article, I'll delve into essential considerations for those contemplating the unique lifestyle of living on a boat.
Embracing Size: Bigger Is Better
When it comes to boat living, size matters. Ignore the expenses momentarily and focus on actual space. From my perspective, bigger boats offer a better living experience. It's not just about headroom; width and length play crucial roles. Storage on a boat is a perpetual challenge, and a larger boat can alleviate this issue. If you're considering living on a boat full-time, anything under 30 feet might be a compromise. I strongly recommend opting for a vessel of 35 feet or more for a more pleasant and comfortable life.
Power Choices: Diesel vs. Petrol
In the realm of boat engines, the choice between diesel and petrol is pivotal. For areas like the Norfolk Broads, I'd insist on a diesel boat. The exception would be outboard motors, where petrol is more manageable. Safety concerns and the limited availability of petrol stations for boats reinforce the wisdom of choosing diesel.
Cooking Dilemma: Gas or Propane
The decision on cooking fuel-gas or propane-holds significance. While gas is fantastic for cooking, it can lead to condensation, a nuisance on boats. Propane, on the other hand, doesn't freeze but emits condensation. An alternative worth considering is Meths stove/hob, a potential solution to combat condensation and enhance heating efficiency.
Warming Up: Heating Options
Heating becomes a critical aspect of boat life, especially during winter. Wood burners provide a dry heat, eliminating condensation concerns. However, safety considerations arise with potential gas leaks. Diesel heaters are a practical option but come with fuel expenses. Electric heating, particularly fan heaters, may not be cost-effective and pose safety risks.
Safety Measures: Securing Your Boat
Ensuring safety on a boat involves various measures. Concerns about people tampering with boat ropes can be addressed with technologies like anchor watch apps and security systems like Salient Eye. Surprisingly, having a dog on board serves as an effective deterrent. Dogs not only love boats but add an extra layer of security.
Moorings Dilemma: To Moor or Not to Moor
Choosing a mooring depends on personal circumstances. If you're a daily commuter, a mooring is likely essential. Continuous cruisers, those moving frequently, may not need a permanent mooring. The prejudice against liveaboards, particularly continuous cruisers, stems from outdated biases. The key is to choose what suits your lifestyle without succumbing to societal expectations.
Marina Living: Debunking Myths
Whether you can live on a boat in a marina often sparks debate. Consider the thriving hire boat industry where individuals live on boats seasonally. The same principle applies to those choosing a boat as their permanent residence. Ultimately, what you do on your boat is your business.
In conclusion, the decision to live on a boat is a personal one, and each individual must navigate the unique challenges and joys it brings. By considering the insights shared here, prospective boat dwellers can embark on this lifestyle with a more informed and prepared mindset. #Norfolk #Broads #Norfolk #Broads

[@johnobiro5202]

Enjoy your life Miles. I wish I had the opportunity to live on the Broads.

[@PERKINS4107]

Fantastic! Love you miles!

[@blazer666del]

Very interesting....cheers and keep posting..

[@lairdjohn]

I love the blogs.

[@marklawrence855]

Great advice and interesting stuff 🤠

[@cigarmann]

Brilliant!

[@AndysEastCoastAdventures]

I don't live on my boat but spend plenty of time on it. As part of the restoration I removed the gas system and went for an origo alcohol stove instead. Not as efficient as gas but a whole lot safer. No need to worry about gas locker storage either. Don't have issues with condensation as boat is fully insulated and most soft lined. Also fitted 3 x solar fan vents as part of resto which helps. I don't shower in the boat though, only in the cockpit. Showers create loads of condensation. We have a shower in our caravan and always open window afterwards because of it.

[@914va]

great one Miles!

[@williamnassif7312]

Very informative, great video!

[@davidchild8761]

I live onboard my boat too. I have a Horizon.

[@thegreathansoni]

useful

[@k956upg]

Bowl with an inch of salt is really good for keeping the condensation down....

[@NorfolkBroadsForum]

Good call.

[@GameLifts]

Ive been watching for about 2 months now im 19 and realy enjoy your videos, just wandering do you work or how do you pay for day to day goods? Have a good weekend, Jack

[@NorfolkBroadsForum]

I have multiple websites that generate revenue from affiliate marketing.

[@GameLifts]

Sailing High Seas - Boat Life Vlogger im 19 and live in the west of ireland currently doing a carpentry apprentiship that i absolutely hate and all i want to do is buy a boat and sail, do you have any advice that might help me? any help is much appreciated!

[@NorfolkBroadsForum]

Finish your apprenticeship first.

[@johnbrookes2196]

I agree with Miles finish your apprenticeship, get an old boat and do it up then go sailing and you will have a skill to fund your sailing anywhere in the world.

[@Anmeteor9663]

Agreed. Learn the skills that will fund your sailing lifestyle forever if you are smart. Don't let go of the dream and enjoy the apprenticeship in the knowledge that you are working for something worthwhile and far far bigger.

[@rhancock249]

Where can I Fill up with red diesel ? Do you use red ?

[@NorfolkBroadsForum]

Broads is full of red diesel outlets

[@NorfolkBroadsForum]

I use red and if you have a diesel heater? You qualify for 60/40 payment options.