I have been living on our 34′ Marine Trader Trawler for almost three years now. In this time I have had so much fun and have seen so many new places. Here are a few things I have learned along the way:

  1. Water is precious. Conserve, Conserve, Conserve! Shower fast and make sure to turn the water off while in between dishes! It is never fun when you have to stop an adventure just to fill up with water!

    Mowing the lawn

    Mowing the lawn

  2. Diesel Engines are incredible, with proper maintenance those things can really run forever! Our Ford Lehman has proved to be bullet proof (knock on wood) over 40 years old and just a few replacement parts here and there! Still purring like a kitten.

    Ford Lehman Diesel Engine

    Ford Lehman Diesel Engine

  3. Simple is better, and “stuff” is over rated. Not having much storage space can really limit how much a person can have. But it is so relieving to know that we have everything we need and nothing that we don’t 🙂

    Fresh Fish!

    Fresh Fish!

  4. Always be aware and prepared. If you happen to forget something on the boat it is usually a long dinghy ride back to get your forgotten item. A simple check to make sure you have your phone, wallet, and keys can save the day.

    Paddling home!

    Paddling home!

  5. Anchoring is more peaceful than docking. No doubt about it.

    Trawler at anchor

    Trawler at anchor

  6. The sun is powerful. Not only does it power all our electrical needs but it also burns. Always wear sunscreen and keep any delicate items covered.
  7. Salt corrodes pretty much everything. If something hasn’t been frequently used and washed there is a good chance it will be seized or stuck. RIP to the many backpack zippers that will never again be opened.
  8. Family and friends think we are crazy. Whatevs we wake up to a beautiful scenery everyday and avoid the 9-5 like the plague. I think they are the crazy ones.

    Cruising with friends

    Cruising with friends

  9. Boat work is impossible to avoid and most projects include some kind of sanding. Sanding dust gets on, in, under, between, and beneath absolutely everything. No matter how much you try to cover the area.
  10. We are beach bums but appearance is important. We currently have the ability to anchor at night for free in appropriate places. If you are respectful and keep things looking nice and neat people will not complain. If your boat looks like a forgotten about mess you will be sure to be getting some objections.
    The Boat Life

    The Boat Life

     

    With every new adventure there is new knowledge to be gained! I love living on our boat and learning new things everyday! Comment below and tell us what you have learned! Thanks for reading!

Sierra 🙂