Liveaboard marinas can be supportive communities of like minded people, but it takes some searching to find one that is right for you and your needs.
Not all marinas allow liveaboards.
Sometimes it's a case of their government permit not allowing permanent residents on boats in the marina.
This is becoming the situation more often all over the United States.
If you are still working in a job that requires you to go to an office or factory every day, you will need to find a place near your job.
If, on the other hand, you are truly retired and can live anywhere your marina choices can be easier to make.
If you are a party animal, some marinas will be just for you. If you are a person that likes your peace and quiet, you need to look for that kind of place.
I have ruled out living aboard in marinas that have tiki bars on the property that stay open until all hours. For others of you, that could be just what you are looking for.
Marinas can be very safe places to live. Look for ones that have security gates at each dock and have a watchman on duty at night.
If you tend to use the head and shower on your boat, then the size and quality of the marina restroom facilities will not be so important.
But if you like to keep your holding tank empty and enjoy unlimited hot water in your showers, look for a great restroom when you are deciding on a marina.
I like a facility that offers a degree of privacy such as enclosed toilets and shower facilities.
Unless you have a real big yacht, you will appreciate a marina that has a clean modern laundromat with machines that work and the ability to get change.
I like marinas that have modern pedestals and finger piers. The best pedestals are equipped with hookups for electricity, water, and cable television.
A finger pier allows you to enter your boat from the side. Without one you have to climb aboard the bow or stern - whichever is nearest the main dock.
If the marina furnishes a lock box bolted to the dock next to the pedestal, you can consider that a welcome bonus.
Since your boat will be your home and the marina is your community, you might consider finding one that has a swimming pool.
I've made my home at several marinas with beautiful pools, including this one in Miami Beach.
Living-Aboard.com has compiled a list of marinas that we understand allow you to live on your boat full time. We have stayed at some of them, but you should do your own research based on what you want and need.
NORTHWEST FLORIDA
NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA
NORTHEAST FLORIDA
CENTRAL EAST FLORIDA
CENTRAL FLORIDA
CENTRAL WEST FLORIDA
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
SOUTHEAST FLORIDA
If you know about a liveaboard marina that's not on our list, or if you find one you like or don't like, tell us about it here. This list changes because marinas decide to stop allowing liveaboards. Please let us know if that happens.
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By Mike Miller, Copyright 2012-2023 Living-Aboard.com