Retirement: First Decision

[WDSTRAND]

I am contemplating my retirement, and life changing move to the boat I am purchasing. The location for this move is yet to be determined. any recommendations, for friendly marinas, that wecome liveaboards. either coast is doable, for the right situation. Thanyou this is a great forum.

[Capt Phil]

Welcome, WD... Look for a marina with well maintained vessels, good security, friendly management staff and reasonable rates for water, power and any other charges. Be prepared to pay a little extra for the priviege of living aboard. Before settling on a marina, spend some time walking the docks and talking to folks, preferably liveaboards in the marina you are interested in.
Many of the west coast marinas now have liveaboard slips available due to the economy going in the tank. But be prepared to pay an extra tax levied by CA Countys' on your personal property, ie., your boat. Good Luck with your search... Capt Phil

[capnorv]

Most Washington state saltwater marinas welcome liveaboards. The bureau of land management seems to limit to 10% of capacity. Premium for doing so range from $15-$100 dollars per month. Automobile parking not included. Where I'm moored, it's $15/ month plus $285/month moorage for a 49' boat, but then it's 12 miles to town, and no security, but it doesn't seem to be an issue. Other marinas range to 10$/ft or so. Oregon seems to be comparable.

[Lancerbye]

Welcome aboard. Went through this process about 5 years ago. Still only live aboard here 6 months a year.

[MikeinLA]

Look for potted plants by the dock steps, it's a sure sign of liveaboards. I'm in Marina del Rey in L.A. and there are liveabords everywhere. The additional fee is generally 50% of the slip rate.

[seafish]

I bought a house on a Bayou in Louisiana...125' of Bayou. Neighbors are Shrimp fishermen, I drive up to the boat, important because I'm re-building and there is no property tax. Not everyone's cup of tea but I love it.

[Talbot]

Does it really matter / the whole point about a boat isthat when you are tired with the view or fed up with the neighbour, you move. Probably better to choose one that is easy to get to toinitially, and then cruise up and down a bit where you think you might be interested and see how they compare.

[Doodles]

Where are you now and what type and size boat?

Are you looking for pleasant weather year-round? Rural or metro area? What kind of cruising do you plan to do? What kind of amenities do you want or need? Lots of variables to consider.

We like our marina, but there aren't a lot of liveaboards so you may not like that. Also it's rural and cold in the winter, a couple other things you may not be looking for. Price is very good and the sailing is great, people super, good protection from bad weather, and not far from lots of culture in Washington, DC, plus lots of marine services in Annapolis.