|
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!) --------PAID AD---------- Complete Van Conversion Kits Under $16K Timber Van Kits introduces a complete, professionally engineered van conversion kit, starting at less than $16,000 and manufactured in our Boulder, Colorado facility. Every kit is designed specifically for the realities of vanlife, with robust materials and components tested extensively by seasoned van travelers. Engineered for durability, each piece handles temperature fluctuations, continuous movement, and daily wear and tear with reliability and ease. Paneling Insulation Flooring Electrical System Battery Storage Solar Panels Alternator Charging Plumbing System Fresh Water Storage Gray Water Storage Galley Sink and Faucet Plenty of Cabinetry Storage Spray-Down Shower
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 EasierWith 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 FasterAs 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 SpaceTo 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 ExcitingSailing 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-SufficiencyIf 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 AreasSure, 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. If you want to hear more about my sailing adventures and thoughts, just click here to join my sailing newsletter. And "like" my new Facebook page: That Sailing Life. Would YOU ever consider the sailboat life?Why or why not? Hit reply and let me know, I read every email!
|
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!
Hey Reader! This morning I woke up to a crazy text alert on my phone: "High Humidity Detected: 86%" 86% humidity is a whopper. We're at the boatyard in Puerto Peñasco in June, when the sea temp rises and drags the humidity right along with it. Not exactly comfortable conditions. I'm monitoring all this from my phone using a small cellular device called the Necto 4G Multisensor. I set upper and lower limits for heat and humidity, and it texts me the moment things go beyond those limits. No...
Hey Reader! A lot of people wonder what the hardest part of van life is. And the answer might surprise you. It's not the lack of hot running water, washing machine, full-size fridge, bathtub, or comfortable couch to rest and watch TV after a long day at work. It's not the dirt or inconveniences or tiny space. It's the uncertainty. The decision fatigue. The overwhelming aspect of trying to find all the parts and pieces to make living in a campervan work. Questions like: Where will I park and...
Hey Reader! Every time I rent a camper in Europe and come back to the U.S., I notice the same thing. The small rigs over there just feel… better thought out. They’re easy to drive. Easy to park. And somehow still manage to feel comfortable inside. I’ve always wished we had more options like that here. And FINALLY. I’ve found one that makes the cut. In fact exceeds it. It’s made by Wingamm and is called the Oasi 610. Have you ever seen a 20 foot motorhome with a dry bath and a garage that can...