Converting a Bareboat Charter Catamaran to Full-time cruiser

Part 2 of the conversion: • HOW MUCH FOR A FULLY O...
Boat Search: • Buying a cat was harde...
Boat Tour: • Leopard 46 Catamaran B...
We spent $110,500* converting a Leopard 46 bareboat chartercat into a tricked out cruiser with all the bells and whistles.
We break down the costs and show where we saved money on the outfitting.
*Oops, forgot about the new anchor and chain. That was another $2K.
iTunes Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Consulting: www.sailclarity.com/consulting
Squarespace - 14 day free trial: squarespace.syuh.net/AvmDj
Private Fb Group: / 475364229906600
Products we use: www.amazon.com/shop/nickokelly
Website: www.sailclarity.com
___
Nick's Books and Audiobooks:
Get Her on Board is about getting that significant other to buy into this cruising nonsense. People seem to like it. All proceeds go to our dog Sugar.
Audiobook: www.audible.com/pd/B00CIE9I1I...
Book:
www.amazon.com/dp/0578057298/...
Live on the Margin is about making money on the go trading stocks and options. I co-wrote it with Pat Schulte of Bumfuzzle. People seem to like that one too. All proceeds donated to our boat.
Audiobook: www.audible.com/pd/B00CMCGHPQ...
Book:
www.amazon.com/dp/0578116642/...
Audiobooks:
Bumfuzzle - Just out Looking for Pirates.
You know these guys, and now you know me, so have a listen.
www.audible.com/pd/B00CWJISRE...
Bound for Distant Seas, by James Baldwin
James is the real deal and this his story of adventure aboard a small, simple boat.
www.audible.com/pd/B015HQBDWU...
__

[@syexplorarconmigo8853]

Probably one of the most honest- and realistic review of refitting a boat of this size and $$ it takes to make it up to snuff with class and comfort. Great taste in Refit choices- I can see years of experience in your choices... So I have to ask- as a monohull owner- is there anything you miss about monohulls these days? Big or small...

[@TheOKellys]

SY Explorar Conmigo SY Explorar Conmigo first of all thank you very much. The trite answer would be that as full time liveaboards we don’t miss much about living on a monohull full time. There are times we’d much prefer a monohull. One would be lighter winds in a comparably rough sea as the sea state goes right into the rig on a cat. The slatting is much worse on a cat in these conditions and you end up dropping sail to save wear and tear or bearing away to set the spinnaker loose. Another time is when opening the bill from the inevitable marina stay. I’m sure I will own another monohull when we are done full time cruising. Our last boat was a Freedom 33, and I loved that particular boat and that size. 33 (she was more like 36) is more than big enough to live on for a stretch, has enough mass to be out in the ocean with, and is very easy to single hand offshore (which I have) and in tight spaces....heck I might even try to buy Either Way back! I also very much prefer small daysailor monohulls over beach cats. It’s a thought provoking question. Thanks again for the kind words.

[@4kbeaches953]

I’m glad you made this video. Lots of people talk about it, you showed it, and as a catamaran lurker, I think about. Thank you

[@AfricanFlightStar]

SY Explorar Conmigo Totally agreed!

[@AfricanFlightStar]

Nick O'Kelly Great informative response thanks!

[@russelltullis7415]

thankyou

[@midnite22767]

I've been doing some research on possibly buying a catamaran once I retire in 3 years and move to the Caribbean. Glad to find your channel, new subscriber. What I love about your content is how much information you are able to share with your viewers about all that is involved in this lifestyle and the challenges you face. You don't just show the pretty drone shots of white sand beaches and that is appreciated. From a viewer who doesn't know anything really about sailing I'm grateful that you take the time to explain some of the more basic sailing jargon and processes. Not sure if my wife will let me turn this dream into a reality but till then I will life vicariously through you guys. Safe travels!

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Nitram. Life is short my friend. See if you can work it out with your wife. I hope we see you out there!

[@jasonwhite2592]

I’m 10 years away from this dream...but these Vlogs are fantastically helpful!

[@donfults1]

Great video.... thanks for taking the time to share that with us! Fair winds!!!

[@TheOKellys]

Thank you Don!

[@keithschoolfield6034]

Love the comfortable “here it is “ cost calculation. Makes me rethink the type of boat to buy. Thank you for being real.

[@robertdonnell8114]

Nope, no comment, this was laid out so you communicated the topic well and thoroughly. I wish everyone would do half as well.

[@Joseph-C]

Very, very nicely done you two. Excellent presentation, and stunning vessel. This is how it's done. My suggestion is to keep it up, this video was so organized and well made I've already subscribed. Top shelf work.

[@TheOKellys]

Wow! Thanks for this. Hope we can keep the standard high. We just sailed up to the Abacos day before yesterday and tomorrow's video about the trip is going to be both more technical and more "freewheeling" in the presentation. Good to have your feedback so we can tweak this and that. Best, Nick

[@brotherbryan2414]

Thank you I appreciate your courteous and prompt response. Blessings

[@segeln4me]

Nick, great job! Fun to see an honest take of this endeavor and it’s amazing how quickly the costs escalate! Keep it up, love to see more of your videos!

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Daniel. Yes it really adds up. Talking to others, our numbers are typical, maybe even on the low side.

[@walterthorne4819]

A professional presentation ....thanks. Love your updated cruiser. Great camera work. Upgrading a boat can be expensive but the end results will make the owners proud.

[@stuartmcmichael5250]

Thoughtful process of restoration and your requirements. I just love your honesty and breakdown of costs. Thank you for sharing. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿⛵️

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Stuart. Appreciate that!

[@TheOKellys]

Wow... is all I can say. Thank you for all of the comments and suggestions. Glad this is useful info for you. We'll do a boat tour in a few days so you can see all that we are talking about here. If you want us to focus on or show something in particular, let me know and we will. Best, Nick and Megan and Sugar.

[@downswingplayer9712]

Hi, Nick I just found your channel I had a lego boat when I was a child and that was about it, I just like seeing different peoples lives on KZbin you present very well and are very watchable. You did a price comparison at the end but what would the price difference be if you were to buy a similar boat to what you have now but brand new? How long does it take to be competent on a boat before you can go off safely on your own? I bought a done a few months ago and am getting some fantastic video with it, with the locations you are going to you could get some amazing footage and they are fun to fly as well. All the best I look forward to seeing your boat tour.

[@TheOKellys]

Thank you for the comment. To buy this boat new or comparable today, I am guessing it would be somewhere in the $750K range, but the newer boats in this class from the same builder are very different beasts, so it is a little hard to compare. I would say the learning curve is definitely easier on a cat. I came up the old way...dinghies, little boat, bigger boat, bigger boat, slightly smaller boat, then this boat. I would say if you had formal instruction, you would be comfortable on this boat in a couple of months. The rest of it is getting used to the ocean...

[@soundbeings1]

@@TheOKellyslooking at present pricing on L46's I think you guys played a blinder (English soccer-speak for 'did really well') and have a stunning, virtually brand new boat. Kudos.

[@michaelhilliard535]

Hey Nick and crew. Just found this channel and thought "That guy looks familiar. " Long way from the Rockies and KUSA channel 9". Someday I'll fallow my dream and sail on down the line like youse guys.🦈 Mike from Aurora ⛵😉

[@donb3392]

@@TheOKellys excellent information and well done. Thanks for making my retirement research so much more informed and saving me from some expensive pitfalls.

[@shananagans5]

I totally agree with you on the carpet thing. It's comfy, it helps keep noise down and if you vacuum every week it's good to go for a year or so. If you buy the leftovers, it's really cheap. A boat doesn't have much floor space so it's easy to find a piece large enough. After you do it a few times it gets to be a quick easy job to swap it out. We had a cardboard template & would roll the carpet out upside down, throw the template on, spray paint around the edges, then cut it out with a utility knife. You have a piece of carpet that fits perfectly in an hour. Another 2 hours or so for pad and install. It's gets easier and faster every time you do it. It doesn't last like it does in a house but it's quick, easy, and cheap to swap it out.

[@TheOKellys]

Right? The key (at least for us) is to see this as something you are going to replace every so often. For us that means keeping the cost down as if we went too nice and fancy, we'd feel obligated to nurse it along with crazy cleaning products, etc. Your method sounds pretty efficient too! Thanks for the comment! Nick O

[@MichaelOZimmermannJCDECS]

Now that is what I call a comprehensive conversion report1 Thanks!

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Michael! I keep finding little projects I forgot doing! Gotta add another grand I think!

[@RogerWilco1]

Having the budget was really compelling. You rarely get this kind of information and it’s really interesting to compare your charter boat plus upgrades to the new factory price of a Leopard.

[@TheOKellys]

If you saw the earlier video, you'll see original budget was to be 300k. Well over that! Goes to show you, we're always trying to be "optimistic." No regrets! She's a good boat. Thanks, Nick O.

[@hutchr6142]

Thank You for the clarity and review. My brother is a live-aboard, I have toyed with the idea; however, my wife does not seem to be into it, yet! I have been curious about the cost involved; you bring up a point I have not pondered, Labor vs Purchase. After watching your video, I believe I would fall in the middle. As a novice, it was easy for me to follow your presentation, I will continue to watch and look forward to viewing your other videos! Best Regards!

[@mtnbikur]

FYI, you’re doing KZbin completely wrong. This was an 18 minute video with 18 minutes of actual content. I’m subscribed. Thanks!!!

[@markjones3425]

Hi Nick & ?Crew mate/Roommate/Mate, Very good video, very informative and nice presentation. Thanks! its great to get first hand experience like this as most sailors are usually a little tight on capital for wants and big on ideas/dreams, and even if your not, and funding is relatively free, its great to have a real first hand idea of costs, sweat equity and to see the finished product. Looking forward to other topics like real first hand performance numbers speed on crossings, easy of handling systems, and show us more of your boats interior. Cheers

[@TheOKellys]

Mark, thanks for this. All good ideas. We were thinking a boat tour was in order. Gonna have to clean up first! Megan is my wife. She'll be a bigger part of the video(s) as she is a better lookin! Cheers mate, Nick

[@jasonstrong4610]

And estimated annual running costs after repairs would be interesting, great video and of course, easy on the ears.

[@markduncan6690]

Your tongue in cheek humorous is perfect!

[@TheOKellys]

Accidents do happen.... lol. Thanks Mark.

[@ConstrianedVideo]

Nick just discovered your channel. As others have commented thanks to you and your wife for breaking down these costs. These costs are helpful to understand for anyone considering a refit of a charter or even older owner catamaran. The lithium batteries and latest electronics package must make you smile every day! Thanks for the well produced sharing!

[@TheOKellys]

Hey thanks Dave. Yeh man, these batteries do make me smile everyday. I swear it's one of those things you get used to worrying about on a boat when you are out full time and lithium removes that worry. Of course you have to have enough generation to keep up, but at least it is easier. Electronics these days are pretty amazing. Back in my day..... thanks for the note.

[@jzb99]

I like the detail you provide Nick - esp about the costs because thats one of the first things that pops into my head when I see something cool/functional/technological is - "I wonder what that costs?" - again - thanks for taking the time! Been binge watching your videos!

[@csmith785]

Great job, guys. Your boat is magnificent! Thank you for sharing your experience with such honesty.

[@TheOKellys]

Thank you for the thank you! The feedback is great and it makes all the difference. Best to you, Nick

[@muskietime]

Crazy informative, organized and comprehendible. Thank you.

[@TheOKellys]

Wow, thank you! Nick O.

[@danielnwatt]

Very educational. I appreciate the clarity. I love the Leapord 46 design and you further added to it.

[@TheOKellys]

Yeh it's pretty slick. Gino Morelli designed her. He designs the Gunboats, HH, etc. Knows what he is doing for sure. Thank you for the kind words.

[@markessle2066]

This was one of the best videos I saw. I have refitted a blue water monohull and can attest that this content is very good.

[@TheOKellys]

That's really nice of you to say Mark. Appreciate it.

[@johnmarshall6926]

great info, I swear I've watched this at least 5 times, HUGE thumbs up.

[@TheOKellys]

Holly smokes! Look at all these views! Glad this one is of some use! Thanks John

[@charmlite6584]

Wonderful job! I totally duplicated what you had to do. Very Well Done on the mods!

[@TheOKellys]

hey thank you! so you know it's a lot of work! Same costs?

[@farzinbehji330]

Many Many thanks for sharing numbers like this with clear descriptions. Very helpful indeed. Wish you guys lovely sailing and cruising.

[@embg]

Just found your channel and now on the second vid.. You do an excellent job of getting straight to the point, sharing relevant info and answering the pertinent questions, without wasting a lot of time.. just subscribed, well done.

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Michael. I appreciate the positive feedback!

[@bjornhojgaard]

Excellent vid; I enjoyed the grown-up tone! Lots of useful information, you just got a new subscriber! My wife and I are catamaran fans, we have a Labrador Retriever, she is a seamstress and my professional background is as Navigator in the Merchant Navy. It looks like all you do is relevant to us. Thanks!

[@TheOKellys]

Bjorn, thank you for the compliment. I can assure you we are goofy grownups sometimes too. We have a lot in common! I can imagine your skills will serve you well aboard. The catamaran, for us is a game changer. We have lived in apartments smaller than this boat. The luxury of dedicated spaces for each of us....it is amazing. Sugar, our American Bulldog/lab mix is very confident on this boat. As she's gotten older (soon to be 14), being on a stable platform has become essential. We were just now out in 8-10 foot confused seas and Sugar was walking around, looking for food like she always does. Thanks again for the kind words. Best, Nick and Megan and Sugar

[@StephenJPayne]

Very well made clip. Tons of useful information. Thanks for posting.

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Stephen. I'm going to do a boat tour coming up. Maybe a little more smooth...lol!

[@calsherman4958]

Thanks! You answered a lot of questions I had about updating costs.

[@tom080955]

This is brilliant!!! Nearly every boat-video adventurer focus on the scenery. Here, thanks to the O'Kelly's, you get the entire how to's on building your boat into your home. This is priceless information and a treasure to us dreamers. wishing there were much more like this. AND, they put a budget to the work! Id love to see if you've got more like this...sail repair, water collection you guys are great and enjoying your work.

[@pilotdane]

Great video and thank you for being honest about what things cost.

[@TheOKellys]

happy to if it helps people make the right decisions. Thanks. I'm a pilot too.

[@stevehofmann9525]

A first class presentation. Your calm well modulated voice just enhanced the content of your video. The organization of your information made for easy comprehension. Your closing comments were clear and concise and seemed well considered. I would advise anyone thinking of making a video to watch one of yours to see how to approach the task as well as by their absence of some common mistakes like yelling at the microphone or mumbling or not organizing your thought before you speak or learning how to edit content for clarity. The last bit would be the respect for your audience your voice conveyed. That goes a long way to making a successful and well received sailing video blog especially in today’s crowded field with many fine examples of sailing videos (like RAN Sailing) and many almost unwatchable attempts at the art and no use naming names.

[@TheOKellys]

Thank you for the kind words Steve. Happy to be of any service to this group. Amazing we live in times when sharing is so easy! Appreciate the note immensely! Best, Nick

[@dawn2788]

Yes, Nick seemed so well-spoken , and articulate.......was not surprised Nick made a comment at the end, that he was a "TV Weatherman".

[@lancboi88]

He's a WEATHERMAN!

[@cherryvillerunner]

Awesome job on your boat and making it like new again. You should get many years of enjoyment out of it. I’m a new subscriber and really like how you go in detail. Enjoyed watching!

[@mattbeharry]

Finally someone willing to share honest and openly about the costs... A lot of people wonder around the issue, nice to have someone give exact numbers.

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks to my wife's record keeping. Lol. I'd have hoped to forget. :) Seriously though, these numbers seem to be in line with what other Leopard owners have spent. We might be on the low side actually.

[@anthonyalford8970]

Outstanding follow up, you have done a nice job, will played life, well played.

[@TheOKellys]

I take no credit. I am the luckiest person you will ever meet.

[@garyrahn2172]

I greatly appreciate this video. My wife and I are planning on buying a boat soon and this video helped us determine how much boat we can afford. Thanks

[@TheOKellys]

Awesome Gary. Congratulations on the decision. Take your time and set aside a bit to make her yours. Best, Nick O.

[@BreakingWavesSailing]

Thanks for making this, I feel like this convo keeps coming up

[@TheOKellys]

It's an attractive option. Just gotta go in with your eyes wide open.

[@sctenz]

Looks like a good beginning to a great adventure! Thanks for sharing. Looking forward to see where you sail her. Fair winds!

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Scotty. We are a couple years into this latest cruise, but everyday is the beginning of the adventure. Northbound to Maine this summer. That will be fun. Thanks for the comment, Nick

[@theymakeitlookeasy]

Brilliant Nick, very, very interesting. I owned a 62 foot sloop, bought in a mess and worked it up to fair standard; that was tough and expensive. A cat like this is the ideal boat for cruising. Looks lovely. Happy sailing.

[@TheOKellys]

Russell Hicks thanks Russell. Yeh big sloops still tug at my heartstrings, but for livability you just can’t do better than a cat. That being said, this much money buys a very nice monohull as well. Best, Nick

[@theymakeitlookeasy]

@@TheOKellys My plans are to just cruise the Caribbean and Bahamas, two of us. A cat is easier and safer for a couple to handle. I've sailed on a few cats but never sailed one myself. Seems to me that shallow draft, not rolling around in anchorages, loads of space, two engines, room for solar panels are pluses against a knot or two. And my lady would love room for a washing machine!!

[@TheOKellys]

yeh, and once you go cat, you rarely go back. It's pretty friggn nice.

[@mgrantom]

You have a very beautiful floating home. I have often considered what would be involved in outfitting a catamaran of that size. Grew up sailing an Irwin 32 and have always wanted a 42+ catamaran. Thanks for all the tips and general information. x

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Mark. We are very lucky and never forget it. Go get that boat! Hope we see you out there soon!

[@OutChasingStars]

I did a double take when I saw the (original) name of your boat. We actually chartered Star Eyes way back in 2013 as we were trying out different boats we were considering buying. Love the L46 and so glad to see she she's moved on to a new adventure!

[@TheOKellys]

Well hello there! We know you guys and enjoy your videos! That is a crazy coincidence. Your ride is pretty darn nice as well! We met Ryan and Tasha down there at Nanny Cay aboard their Helia 44. Your (their) boat felt much much larger than this one. After cruising monohulls for years, I feel that all of these mid-40s production cats are pretty darn nice for extended cruising. Some excel a little more in this way or that, but it's just such an amazing platform! Keep on keepin on and we will be following...when we have good data! Best, Nick

[@FRv4S]

From the bottom of my heart I really wish you the best of luck! You 2 are really cool cats!

[@TheOKellys]

Wow, thank you Felix!

[@ianadkins471]

Great video and very informative. I’m looking to buy a trawler and this info is tremendously helpful.

[@TheOKellys]

Groovy. I think we all end up on a trawler at some point. A lot to be said for them. For now though, I still dig the wind in the sails. Feels like flying.

[@michaeldenicola6725]

Great video it was very helpful you both did an amazing job. Thank you for sharing, and safe sailing.

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Michael. Appreciate it. Nick O.

[@DavidMosby]

I am glad your videos show up before others. I enjoy yours immensely. I guess most of us landlubbers somehow identify with you because you explain things so well.

[@christophersanders7483]

Great realistic view on the costs of these boats. Thank you for sharing. It helps a lot.

[@svflyer-fromzerotonineknot3125]

Great info. Would be nice if you gave a tour at the end....

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks for the comment David. We are going to do one soon. As it was, I thought I was being a bit long-winded so cut it off at 20 minutes or whatever it is.

[@pikehk]

Great Video thanks for the breakdown.

[@bill2292]

I watched this when it first came out, and just watched again as we get close to buying. Great video Nick!

[@johnfilmore7638]

Something Ive learned as I got older. No matter how smart you are, if you have little experience, all the books in the world wont stop you having to redo stuff you didn't anticipate. I've crewed for races but never lived aboard or spent more than a couple days aboard. If I bought a boat, for any amount I'd still choose a boat that's been lived-aboard a couple years, and get them to leave everything non-sentimenal and explain their storage, systems, cleaning schedule, etc, someone figured out a system that works and if it aint broke dont fix it.

[@TheOKellys]

good strategy!

[@seanrhone5306]

Great video! Thanks for sharing the details.

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Sean!

[@mediocreman2]

This was pretty cool, thanks. I always find it interesting when even millionaires are willing to talk about how much things cost.

[@TheOKellys]

Millionaires....lol.....lol.....

[@ratj4715]

You guys have came a long ways from your first boat that’s for sure. I just got you guys today and I started off with your first boat than maybe one other video than to this one. And it like wow are these the same people. You guys have done well.

[@timo2905]

Most sailing channels do not go into the costings or technical stuff so this was great and refreshing. New subscriber.

[@djmatthewsol]

Nice work! Great information.

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Matthew. Appreciate it.

[@dannyvaldez1926]

Great video ... good luck on your cruising .... :-)

[@TheOKellys]

Danny Valdez thanks Danny. We are having a good time. Best, nick

[@ceeceety2320]

Wow! We are not boat owners, however, we've been watching a LOT of yachting channels and then came across the Catamarans and fell in love! Our issues would be #1, We don't know anything about sailing! Don't laugh! #2 I don't have the time to learn, so I would have to either hire a captain and deckhands or wait until we retire and learn myself. I imagine a younger man who is fit such as yourself would have an easier time keeping up with a boat and sailing. This is probably more of a pipe dream for me. Your boat is a beauty and your wife did a fabulous job with the upholstering! Looking forward to seeing the tour! Also, have to commend you both for giving your dog such a wonderful life. We are animal lovers and they would be included in anything we decide to do with our lives of course. Seeing your dog on the paddle board was a great moment! What a lucky dog!

[@TheOKellys]

Hey thanks for the note Tim. We are lucky lucky people for sure and really happy to be able to share a bit of our life on youtube. Much gratitude! As for learning to sail and hiring an experienced captain, that is a HIGHLY advisable thing to do. Two years ago we met a husband and wife with a young daughter on a catamaran they had recently purchased. Even though they had quite a bit of experience on monohulls in the med, they hired an experienced catamaran sailor to sail up from the Caribbean over a couple of months. The tips and hints and tricks you learn will save a lifetime of mis-steps. I find myself learning something new on just about every other sail and this is after four boats and a lot of miles! Finding the right person for the task is the tough part, because not only does this person have to be trustworthy and knowledgeable, but they need a compatible personality! But I say go for it! If you have the interest, I don't see how someone couldn't go from zero experience to quite competent in just a few months. The hardest part of it all, to be honest, is learning all of the systems on the boat as you often are called upon to fix this or that. Sailing, navigating, landfalls, watches....those are not that difficult to learn. Please do keep in touch as you pursue this. I want to hear how it is going. Hope to see you out here soon! Nick

[@danjf1]

Nie deal - I like how you fixed/upgraded many things yourself. One thing I have been told over and over, esp for a solo sailor, is you must be totally self sufficient while at sea and (try) to know every nut and bolt on your craft. Awesome videos O'Kelly's!

[@jgbpa]

Great video Nick!!! just subscribed. We have been thinking about doing this very thing.

[@TheOKellys]

Excellent. Plusses and minuses to going this route, but if you've got the time and patience, you can really dial it in the way you want. Good luck and hope to see you out here soon. Best, Nick

[@darrencortines8133]

Nice video. Very informative. Thanks!!!

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Darren. I appreciate the feedback.

[@alejandrodurruty7382]

Thanks!!!Lots of information. Helps anyone realize what you need to think about when you purchase a used boat

[@HillBassplayer]

Thank you for providing such valuable information. Hope to see you on the high seas one day.....Happy and smooth sailing mate ⛵⛵⛵

[@TheOKellys]

Hope so Eugene! To you as well!

[@gyzmopower7599]

Fantastic Vlog👍👍👍

[@timedek]

Nice thanks, would be interested to see a video of the result at the end like a tour of the boat and you smiling with spouse and dog.

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks for the idea. I'm wondering what sorts of videos to make. I like doing this. So a boat tour. We will give that a shot! Thanks!

[@bradfocl]

What do you do with the dog when you go to a Caribbean island where it can't come off because of quarantine?

[@TheOKellys]

well, our dog is almost 14, so she barely wants to get off the boat as it is. But basically to answer your question, if it is a country that is not friendly to dogs, like T&C, then I'm not friendly to them and I sail right by... My dog is never going into a quarantine.

[@skesno309]

Great Info. You make alot of people envious of your lifestyle. Thanks

[@TheOKellys]

We are incredibly fortunate to be doing this. We never forget it. That we can share it with you is amazing.

[@caligunlawssuck4326]

I agree with Darren! Very nice video and very informative! I can't afford one myself right now. If I feel like I do now when I'm ready to retire, I will sell my house and buy a 45-55 ft cat for full-time sailing! I can't wait!!! Thanks again for your video!!!

[@TheOKellys]

Wow, thanks. I gotta tell you, you get to a cat this size and it basically a floating house. Appreciate the comment. Get out sooner rather than later! Nick

[@keithwiggins6891]

Great video, we're just moving from a Leopard 38 to a L44 & it needs a bit of work. Some great tips here! 😀

[@TheOKellys]

Keith, thanks. Those look like really nice cruising platforms. Congrats! Would love to hear how it goes. I know they are put together a little differently than the 46.

[@keithwiggins6891]

@@TheOKellys yes, they are both really nice, but after living on the 38 for around 8 months, we were feeling that we needed more room. The survey revealed a lot of damage below the water line from hitting reefs and a few other bits of damage. So we're just negotiating on that, as our 38 is pretty much all ready, so kind of back to the start with fixing. So mixed feelings: more room, nicer layout, but lots more work! It does have the front cockpit, which will be good for our German shepherd.

[@TheOKellys]

It must have the removable keels, correct? I'm pretty sure you can just buy new ones from R&C if they are that bad. Can even be changed out in the water. No idea if this helps, but when I was getting estimates on the known issues (basic stuff like glass, rudders, engines) I doubled those numbers and deducted from our phaseout price. I had to walk from the deal twice, but eventually settled on the correct number. And of course those early estimates were too low as the contractors can't help but make promises...So it worked out obviously. Anyway, the 44 and 48 look like great platforms. I can't imagine how nice it would be to have that front cockpit. I like those 38's though. There was one at Nanny Cay in a desperate situation and really good price when we were looking. But we promised ourselves we would make friends and family a priority with the next boat. Let me know how it goes, and hope to see you out here.

[@keithwiggins6891]

@@TheOKellys Thanks for the info. Interesting that you walked away a couple of times. I'm also thinking that we will need to stand firm to avoid a heap of cost without compensation. No problem if it is funded in the buy price, or if the work is done properly as part of the purchase. But it does make me uneasy moving from a great 38 to a 44 fixer-upper.....

[@TheOKellys]

Well, I don't advise posturing, but the numbers either work or they don't. Gotta listen to your gut on moving to a bigger project from a boat that is already dialed in. Personally, I like smaller boats. I loved our last boat, a Freedom 33...liked it even more than the one before that which was a Peterson 46 with all the bells. The main reason we wanted this big fancy cat is that we are getting older and missing our family a bit and wanted them to visit and be comfortable while they were here. :) When we are done with this adventure, I am thinking a trailerable tri is going to be my next ride. For now, really do like the L46. If you aren't a member of the Leopard group on Fb, join that- it is one of the more "useful" groups I've joined. Lots of wisdom in there and not a lot of baseless opinion. Nick

[@nooneanybodyknows1321]

Great informative video with thought and experience to back up reasons for/for not doing this yourself.👍

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks. Money is probably the number one reason we do what we can ourselves, but learning how is fun and gives us a lot more confidence.

[@craigbowman9398]

Great Episode. We plan to live full time and travel the world on a Cat and your numbers and decisions are really helpful. Thanks for making it.

[@TheOKellys]

Happy to provide something useful! Appreciate the feedback. Nick

[@StephenWalkerAhoy-Boats]

Such a useful video! 2nd time around it made even more sense and helped me make judgements about 2nd hand boats on the market that we might or might not buy. Thanks a million.

[@festitraining]

Great video. Was very interesting to see what it would take to convert a charter boat to a comfortable live aboard....great job

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Steve!

[@BJ-fh2xc]

Thank-you and your wife for taking the time putting this together. Did the whole refit including the batteries take place in the BVI's?

[@TheOKellys]

Good question. No, we did the basics in St Maarten and continued installing gear in up through BVI, DR, etc. We bought the batteries in St Augustine from a guy named Simon Ytterbom at Batteries Distributors. Really cool dude who held my hand all the way through it. Things like the rigging we did in Georgia after a couple seasons. I included it in the vid because this is definitely a cost you have to factor in with a used chartercat...who knows how many rough gybes those renters had had. Thanks for the question. Nick

[@davidturner8301]

@@TheOKellys Hi Nick, I am considering buying an older cat to possibly live on fulltime and found this amazingly informative! Have you considered going with electric drives instead of diesel motors in the future as the options open up? I have heard they can be expensive and having enough battery storage can be an issue with weight as well as overall cost I'd imagine. Great to see you went with upgraded lithium to save weight and increase your total power needs by a huge amount :-)

[@wilhelmarchitects9259]

Very well done video. I have renovted a 35' English built wooden sloop out of Pelican Harbour in Sausalito some years ago, after sailing it down to Santa Barbara where I now reside, I had it on a mooring for about 10 years. One day during the recession the boat got nearly completely submerged on the mooring. The coast guard was able to pump out the water and raise it, but given my financial situation at the time I was forced to let the boat go. I loved one of your other videos where you described your anchor debacle exiting the golden gate. I could really relate having a similar experience exiting the gate on our way to Santa barbara, a truly "ass-puckering" experience. I have been considering getting a Cat for my next boat. your videos are very helpful, keep it up!

[@TheOKellys]

Ah yes, Pelican. We kept Either Way next door at Sausalito Yacht Harbor. Santa Barbara is another favorite but impossible to get a slip unless you know someone. Wooden boats, wooden boats....a labor of love, always. Thanks for the note.

[@patriotpioneer]

Probably the most accurate & truthful video on actual cost currently on the Tube.....!

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks. I didn't realize that. I actually thought people would be a little bored with all these details. It was my wife Megan who said people really want to know and I should do the video. Smart woman!

[@patriotpioneer]

@@TheOKellys Having a Good Wife makes a man Better...!

[@TheOKellys]

she certainly does. We've known each other since sixth grade.

[@DurningJ]

Your return on investment- the joyful days - is exceptional and beyond measurement.

[@TheOKellys]

Exactly. Well said.

[@EL90291]

You deserve at least 100k subscribers. Great content, very informative, kind of a reality check to all dreamers who want to get a “cheap” cat. What was the extra cost for the research, travel and surveys, before you settle on this cat ?

[@TheOKellys]

EL EL wow, thanks. I did a video a few months ago about searching for this boat. I’d guestimate we spent about 25k on the search. We had five deals and surveyed four boats. Wholly cow look at that! People are subscribing! Google gods are smiling on me! Lol. We live in amazing times. Thanks for the comment.

[@daxbattaglia2613]

Great video.....I just started watching a few of your videos and can't wait to check out more. Also, thanks for the quick response to the comments.

[@blazejennifer2507]

Great video. Great information- while a pretty healthy price tag, it does seem like you really ended up with a great boat. Happy sailing 😎

[@TheGolfdaily]

We need more You tubers like this gentleman who can share honest information concerning money.

[@TheOKellys]

Thank you, appreciate the kind words.

[@millertimeeeeeee]

Really cool video

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Dave. Appreciate the feedback

[@sonofagunnin]

Subbed. Looking forward to watching all your vids this weekend. 🍻

[@TheOKellys]

thank you. Going to get a boat tour out here in a few days too!

[@markosdehigginson4776]

Hi Nick, Megan and Sugar Many folks who have never cruised need to think about anchors and ground tackle too. To me these items are super important in the "make it safe" category..... Have a wonderful cruising life! Hasta, makomarkos

[@TheOKellys]

Yes, I somehow forgot to mention the new Rocna Vulcan 33 and 250' of new chain we added. It was another $2k that I forgot I spent. An oversight on my part as these charterboats often come with completely inadequate ground tackle. Thank you for the comment, Nick

[@firemanmfd229]

Awesome video. Preparing for life in a few years, and it was really informative. You made me think twice about a catamaran.

[@TheOKellys]

Right on Don. Appreciate that. Hope to see you out there soon.

[@stevehines5751]

Refitting the boat is half the fun!

[@TheOKellys]

I sort of agree...though the older I get the less interested I am in the dirty stuff. But tricking these boats out with the newest gear is pretty cool. I hate to sound old and salty, but the equipment back when we started this was not nearly as good. Except stainless parts...those seem to have become lower quality...

[@portiatecharters5269]

Hi Nick. Really enjoyed watching that. I was a skipper for Moorings in Thailand for 2 seasons and the Leopard 4600 was my main yacht. It was by far my favorite to sail even next to their newer models. Heavy, strong and really spacious. I now manage our families yacht charter company in the south of Portugal. We don't have any Leopard cats in our fleer nor is it common to see one in our waters, so every time I spot those steps on the front window I smile and point it out to guests. If you ever sail to Europe and stop in the south of Portugal, let us know!

[@TheOKellys]

What a cool job you have! Pretty much living the dream! L46/4600 really is a great boat, isn't it? Sailing it is a lot of fun! Now that I've talked to a few Lagoon, Privilege, Voyage, etc. owners, I wouldn't call it heavy, but I get what you mean....it's no Catana or Outremer. I have no idea if we will get over there, but certainly will say high if we do. What boats do you charter?

[@jackgabbert3233]

Hello, New viewer/sub and very much appreciate your behind the scenes dollar and cents look you provide. I'm beginning to binge your video library now and enjoying your content. Thank you both for fun and facts. Regards, Jack

[@wmmikek]

I like your comment "It's our house." so rare today when all is looked at as an investment! Happy cruising, ENJOY, ENJOY, ENJOY!!!

[@TheOKellys]

Wow, thanks! Not all investments pay in dollars/marks/rubles/etc !!!! Enjoy, Enjoy, ENJOY!!! I like that! Kanpai!

[@peterkacandes5905]

Great info and very kind of you to share the cost details.

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Peter, I'm thinking about doing one on ongoing maintenance/berthing/insurance costs.

[@ahawk850]

This is a really great and enlightening video. I totally agree with your logic - having bought a "Fixer-upper" of my own. It is everything I wanted because I was able to build everything in according to the way I use the boat. Now - I am looking to upgrade to Catamaran and am looking at the charter fleet. Thanks for the great insights...

[@TheOKellys]

Hey thanks for the feedback. I think it helped we had done this before. It seems like two things can bog you/me down in this process: taking on tasks that would be better done by a pro, and getting in over your head financially. My experience buying a charterboat is that you have to treat each deal individually because they arent ALL used and abused boats, but some certainly are. Good luck. Be curious to hear how it goes for you. Best, Nick

[@justjrandomuser]

THANK YOU! Even with all the people doing this, no one likes to talk about the real costs! This is good to know from a budgeting standpoint regardless of whether you're leaving your job or working remotely.

[@fxpthl]

Very well explained and detailed! I wondered if this former charter service boat had any issues because it Was perhaps used & abused by the many renters. Being from Southern California myself, the ac work would have been a very high priority for us as well. That humidity is a fun killer! Your finished “home” looks to be almost perfect and like new. Bravo!

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Edward. Yeh, credit card captains use these boat pretty hard, but nothing on a glass boat is unfixable. It just depends on how much money is required. This boat had had one engine replaced and both saildrives replaced (SD60s from the original SD50s - this is a good thing), prior to our purchase. There we also some dock dings, but as long as you figure in the cost of repair, it's not a big deal. Now if there had been evidence of a dismasting or hard grounding or something, we wouldn't have pursued this boat...I don't need to deal with structural problems. Glad you like the video! We will be back to SoCal one day. SD holds a special place for us.

[@FrankHRitz]

don’t forget you have learned your boat before your journey

[@TheOKellys]

More or less a continual process, but you are right Frank. Thank your for the comment, Nick

[@Johnonayacht]

We are looking for a live aboard. We have seen a lagoon 42 owners and a four cabin. What are your thoughts? It’s just us and our dogs.

[@aitch6216]

You can do it on a 42, although it’s a small boat. A little cramped, a little easier to sail and a little less expensive to operate. You may end up wanting more room if you are living aboard

[@joelhorn5858]

New and aspiring sailer thank you for the great content. Happy sailing!

[@traviswallace1352]

You are an excellent commentator. Better than our small town TV news guys who stumble through our nightly newscast. Maybe you were a TV meteorologist! Great video and you guys are amazingly handy!

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Travis. It's always been ad-lib for me. Appreciate the compliments!

[@mikedhsr007]

What's the 'market' value after the conversion investment ?

[@TheOKellys]

That’s a tough one. The L46 has developed a bit of a cult following, so finding one is very difficult (I think there is only one for sale in the US) and they command a premium compared to other boats of its class and age. Ours, considering condition and upgrades is probably going to sell in the high 300s. The last few I’ve seen have been asking mid 400s. At the end of the day, however, a boat is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it, so market value on something as specific as the L46 is a little tough to figure out.

[@johntatum5052]

@@TheOKellys k

[@10lauset]

you know what you put into the boat and how it was done instead of learning what's there and then learn how to repair it. A shortened learning curve especially when you don't have the time when under pressure. Thanks

[@TheOKellys]

exactly my thinking! Thanks, Nick

[@WillN2Go1]

I learn so much from you guys. I'm watching this for at least the third time. As a noob, every time I watch a video like this I'm a completely different person - sailor. Ah, $11,000 for all new electronics that is good and I know the same amount will apply to the monohull I want to sail for the next two years waiting for my cat. Those refrigerator seals. They do get stiff. Here's a trick that's always worked ('cause I've done it for over 40 years). When you flip a 'fridge door hinges the seals absolutely will not seal, but pour near boiling water over them and they soften right up and will re-form to the new door swing. Maybe your seals were completely shot - saltwater, sun... but I'd always try hot water first. And it's good to occasionally hold your hand under the door seals to check if they're getting stiff and no longer sealing. Needed to do that to my old fridge a couple of years ago.

[@miafreya2529]

Thank you so much for this video. I have started saving and working a bit more so that I could one day actually rent my flat and live on a boat... At this moment I am living on a friend's mono and I have realised it needs some repairs... So I just might repair some stuff for him since he is giving it for free to me and my boyfriend... He uses the boat just as a holiday house in a marina and actually lives on a catamaran in another country.. . He is a really, really great guy honestly... So, since I will hardly get that kind of money any time soon, I might start with something small, and this video has shown me some stuff I have thought about... I am in no rush, and I really appreciate your insight guys ❤️