Van Life vs. Sailboat Life: Which is Better?


Hey Reader!

We've been bopping down the California coast in our new-to-us sailboat, on our way down to Baja and the Sea of Cortez.

Right now, we're enjoying Southern California and doing the final fixes before we head out into the ocean.

All this time on the sailboat has made me think about some key differences between van life and sailboat living.

But first, check out this ad from Timber vans (thanks for clicking on and supporting my advertisers!)

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Timber Van Kits also offers a-la-cart component kits and accessories.

----End Paid Ad-----

Here are some of the differences between van life and sailboat life:

Van Life is Way Easier

With van life, you just turn the ignition and go wherever you want. There's no waiting for the perfect weather window, no dealing with uncomfortable swell, no life-threatening emergencies far from land. Plus, it's easier to get groceries, fuel, you name it.

Van Life is Way Faster

As you know, vans travel down highways FAST. It takes hours to reach a destination rather than days. Even though our sailboat is fast for a sailboat, it's only going 10-12mph max, and that's on a good day with enough wind.

Sailboats Offer more Space

To be honest, I'm REALLY enjoying the space we have on our boat. There are two bedrooms, two heads, a large table and living area, and a nav station where I work on my computer. I also love our large galley with a 3-burner stove and oven.

Sailboats are Way More Exciting

Sailing is a thrilling sport when you get the right wind and ocean conditions. Plus, there's something magical about being under sail under the power of the wind. We are using the forces of nature to get to our destination rather than burning diesel.

Sailboats Require Extreme Self-Reliance and Self-Sufficiency

If something on your sailboat breaks, there are typically no mechanics around where you can bring in your sailboat for work (or it's extremely expensive). Most sailors know how to fix their own boats, from the diesel engine, to the watermaker, to the toilet systems, etc. You must know A LOT about fixing things, even in exotic, far-off, remote places.

Nobody is going to come to your rescue and fix your boat if it breaks down in the middle of nowhere.

Sailboats Reach More Remote Areas

Sure, you can reach plenty of remote boondocking areas in a van, but with a sailboat, it's a whole other level of remote. Our sailboat can reach islands and places ONLY other boats can go, and the amount of sailboats out there is way less than the number of vans or RVs.

These are just a FEW differences, there are many!

Just too much to write about in one email.

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Would YOU ever consider the sailboat life?

Why or why not? Hit reply and let me know, I read every email!

Hey! Want to live the van life? Whether you're a weekend warrior or full-timer, I'm here to help.

I spend half the year in a DIY Sprinter van camper, and the other half on a sailboat. I want to help you achieve your nomadic living dreams. Join my email list for van life tips and advice, remote work ideas, personal stories and anecdotes, and more!

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