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jdausten · 28-10-2012, 10:25

Hi all,

I hope this is the right section of the forums to post this. If not then I apologize.

My wife and I are going to make the move to living on a boat. We don't want to go deep into the ocean. Our thoughts are to just cruise up and down the coast, never going farther away from shore than the minimum allowed by law and safety for surfers. With that being said we aren't sure what type of boat we should look for and that's what I am looking for from here...for now

Based on my initial research it seems like a houseboat is NOT the way to go. It seems those are more for just being in one place and or just cruising around the harbor at best. We don't want a sailboat but aren't sure what type of motorized boat is best for what we want to do.

We want to start out in San Diego, spend a few months there, then move up the coast a little bit and do the same thing. Basically spend a few years just going up and down the coast from California to Washington and back.

It's just the two of us, four cats, and a dog. We aren't in a rush. We intend to do tons of research and make sure we are as prepared as one can be when making such a big lifestyle change.

Kind regards,
Jonathan

webejammin · 28-10-2012, 10:47

To cruse up and down the USA's west coast on a power boat you need to look for a 35 to 40 footer with at least well maintained 2 diesels. The southern current along the coast builds large confused waves and you will need a tall bow at least 5 ft off the water. There are a couple of months a year to safely travel July thru first of Sept in boats under 100 ft and then you need to watch for good weather windows. Good luck

markpierce · 28-10-2012, 10:55

Suggest you obtain/study a cruising guide such as Charlie's Charts of the U.S. Pacific Coast.

jdausten · 28-10-2012, 11:13

Thank you for the responses. One thing I should have added, and hope it helps, is what type of boat. Meaning, is it a cruiser, deck boat, yacht, etc. We're looking to stay within a budget of 75k.