I’ve been living aboard my Hallberg-Rassy in Port de Pollença for three years now and I occasionally get asked about what it’s actually like. Here’s the honest version.
The great parts:
- Waking up on the water every morning never gets old
- The community in the marina is wonderful — liveaboards look out for each other
- Living costs are lower than renting an apartment (once the boat is paid for)
- Freedom to move — if I want a change of scene, I sail somewhere else
The challenging parts:
- Space. A 42ft boat is spacious by boat standards but tiny by house standards. You become very good at decluttering
- Weather dependency. A strong northerly that goes on for days can make life uncomfortable — constant motion, noise from rigging and halyards
- Maintenance is constant. Something always needs fixing. You become a plumber, electrician, and carpenter whether you want to or not
- Bureaucracy. The Spanish regulations around liveaboards are… complicated. Technically it’s a grey area in many marinas
- Visitors. Having people to stay requires creativity and honesty about the space
Would I change it? Not for a moment. But it’s not for everyone. Try it for a week before committing.
Any questions from potential liveaboards?
I love this post! The honesty is refreshing. My biggest concern would be the space — I work from home (well, from a café usually) and I’m not sure I could do a full day’s work in a boat cabin. How do you handle workspace?
Also, how do the marinas feel about liveaboards? Is it explicitly allowed or more of a don’t-ask-don’t-tell situation?
This is literally our plan in 2-3 years so this is gold dust. A few questions if you don’t mind:
- What’s the marina fee like for a year-round berth?
- How do you handle laundry?
- Is mail/deliveries an issue?
- Does it get cold in winter?
@sophie_turner I have a folding desk in the saloon and I work there when I need to. It’s fine for a few hours but I’ll admit I also use the yacht club café for longer sessions. Most marinas are fairly relaxed about liveaboards as long as you’re quiet, tidy, and a good neighbour. Officially it varies.
@tom_lisa Happy to answer:
- Year-round berth in Pollença for a 42ft is around €10-12k depending on the marina and the deal you negotiate
- Laundry: marina laundry room plus the occasional launderette in town
- Mail: I use a PO Box in Pollença. Amazon delivers to it, which is essential
- Winter: it does get cold! January nights can be 4-5°C. I have a diesel heater which makes it perfectly comfortable. The cold isn’t the problem — it’s the damp. A good dehumidifier is essential
I know several liveaboards here in Mallorca and they all say the same thing — the community is the best part. You really do look out for each other. One tip: if you’re seriously considering it, spend a winter on the boat first before committing. Summer liveaboard life is easy. Winter is the test.
I’ve been living aboard for about 18 months now and I’d echo everything James said. The one thing I’d add is the importance of good ventilation. In the Med, condensation is a real problem in winter and mould can become an issue quickly. Dorade vents, opening hatches, and a dehumidifier are essential.
The Starlink has been transformative for my work setup — but that’s another thread entirely!