How much does it cost to live aboard a boat in Florida?

In Florida, monthly slips for a 40-foot sailboat can cost anything from $800 to well over $2,000 per month. You’ll almost certainly pay twice as much in popular vacation cities like Miami Beach or Key West. So do your research, look for private docks to rent, and investigate every marina using satellite pictures.

Can you live on a boat in a marina in Florida?

You can pick pretty much any marina in the world and live there. So long as you can afford the Marina fees, you should have no trouble at all. Once you are sure that living full time on your boat is for you, there comes the big question.

How much does it cost to live in a marina in Florida?

Living on the Water Docks can be purchased or leased depending on the long-term plan, but most will come with a monthly utility fee ranging from $250-$1000 per month (even if purchased).

What is a liveaboard fee?

Then, marinas also charge a “liveaboard fee” to people that live on their boats full-time because they use the facilities more, and that is usually between $100 and $300. Finally, you will also have to pay for electricity and water (which are metered) and taxes.

What is considered a liveaboard in Florida?

In Florida, the law defines liveaboards as persons who stay aboard their vessels for 10 days out of any 30 calendar days. Those days do not need to be contiguous.

Is it legal to live on a houseboat in Florida?

Yes, you can live on a houseboat in Florida. Many places in Florida are perfect for houseboat living, such as Tampa Bay, which is not only far away from the city’s hustle and bustle, but also offers one of the best on-board lifestyles in the world!

Do you need a captain’s license to drive a boat in Florida?

Do I need a license? In order to operate a motorboat of ten (10) horsepower or greater, Florida law requires anyone who was born on or after Jan. 1, 1988 to successfully complete an approved boating safety course and obtain a Boating Safety Education Identification Card issued by the FWC.