live aboard yacht in florida

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If your dream is to live aboard a yacht , United Yacht Sales has the inventory to connect you with the perfect boat. We feature more than 1,000 listings at any given time. You can always find a huge selection of live aboard yachts for sale in Florida. These live aboard yachts are made by a number of top brands, including Hatteras , Viking , Sea Ray , Tiara , Sunseeker , Kadey-Krogen , and more. Our inventory also represents a variety of dimensions, ages, amenities, price points and other characteristics and features.

PRE-OWNED Live Aboard Boats

70' Hatteras 1988

Stuart, Florida, United States

63' Viking Motor Yacht 1989

Little River, South Carolina, United States

55' Viking 55 Convertible 2013

Pensacola, Florida, United States

55' Novatec 55 Islander CMY 2002

North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, United States

54' Hatteras Motoryacht 1987

Savannah, Georgia, United States

54' Sea Ray Sundancer 2013

Cancun, Mexico

53' Hatteras 53 Motor Yacht 1980

Mystic, Connecticut, United States

52' Hatteras Sport 1999

Miami Beach, Florida, United States

INSPIRATION II

51' Riviera 51 Flybridge 2008

Marathon, Florida, United States

50' Absolute 50 Fly 2019

Manhattan, New York, United States

50' Custom Trawler 1991

50' Carver 506 MY 2000

Richmond, British Columbia, Canada

BORN TO BE WILD

48' Sea Ray 48 Sundancer 2008

North Miami, Florida, United States

48' Californian 48 Motor Yacht 1986

North East, Maryland, United States

48' Fairline Targa 48 GT 2015

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Founded in 2002, United Yachts Sales has grown to become the largest independent yacht brokerage in the world. In addition to our 1,000-plus listings, we have a team of more than 100 brokers spread across the United States and Canada. These brokers are experienced and knowledgeable, and each is more than capable of helping you find the perfect live aboard yacht for sale in Florida. Our team's talent is evidenced by our results - each year, about 600 transactions close representing about $100 million. When you want a live aboard yacht, we know how to find and secure it for you.

Take a moment to read our article, Liveaboard Boats Frequently Asked Questions and then let us know if you have any of your own!

You can read more about 7 unique liveaboard boats and yachts that are currently for sale on the market.

Browse our selection of live aboard yachts for sale in Florida and contact the listed broker to get more details or ask questions. If you don't see a yacht that meets your needs, contact one of our United Yacht Sales brokers directly. We can watch the market for a boat that better fits your requirements.

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The Best Liveaboard Marinas in Florida (3 Budgets)

Florida has numerous live-aboard marinas, offering different prices, security, and attractions. The best ones are those in a convenient location that have luxurious amenities at an affordable price. In this article, we'll look at the best marinas in Florida that offer liveaboard options, broken down by region and budget.

Some of Florida's most exceptional liveaboard marinas include Bay Point Marina, Legendary Marina, and Sandestin Marina. They have world-class amenities and top-notch security but at a higher cost. Monroe Harbour Marina and Twin Dolphin Marina are some of your go-to places for affordable liveaboard marinas.

In North Florida, their best bets for liveaboard options are Panama City Marina and Jacksonville City Marina, which only require a medium budget. Let's look at a much longer list of other liveaboard marinas in each of these regions in Florida based on how much budget you have.

Miami Beach Marina, Opal Key Resort and Marina, and Harbortown Marina are some of the best liveaboard options in South Florida.
The Miami Beach Marina is situated in a prime location, so you will need to prepare a higher budget between $1,500 and $2,500 per month.
East Coast Florida has some excellent liveaboard marinas with above-average amenities and security, such as Bahia Mar Marina and Palm Harbor Marina.
Green Cove Springs Marina offers one of the cheapest liveaboard options in Florida, with rates starting at $10 per foot per month.

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Some of the most exceptional liveaboard Marinas are located in Northwest Florida, such as Bay Point Marina, Legendary Marina, Sandestin Marina, and Green Cove Springs Marina in North Florida. They come with world-class amenities and top-notch security, but they also have luxurious prices.

If you're after affordability, liveaboard marinas in Central Florida including Monroe Harbour Marina, Ortega Villa Yacht Marina, and Twin Dolphin Marina are some of your go-to places. They provide basic amenities like showers, restrooms, and laundry facilities, as well as additional amenities like Wi-Fi and cable TV.

Although not as extensive or luxurious as those provided by marinas with higher ratings, they are still of good quality and provide a comfortable and convenient experience for boaters and yacht owners.

When it comes to security, they can provide basic security measures like security cameras, gated access, and security personnel. However, the security measures may not be as extensive or sophisticated, and could potentially be vulnerable to security risks such as theft, vandalism, or other criminal activities.

The table below shows some of the best liveaboard marinas in Northwest Florida (also called "Panhandle") and the estimated monthly cost for each based on three budget types:

Pensacola Shipyard

Located in Pensacola, Florida, this marina offers a variety of amenities including a ship store, fuel dock, laundry facilities, and boat repair services. It is conveniently located near downtown Pensacola and has a friendly community of boaters.

Pensacola Beach Marina

Located on Little Sabine Bay, Pensacola Beach Marina is a great option for liveaboards. The marina offers a variety of amenities, including a pool, laundry facilities, and a ship store. It's also just a short walk from the beach which makes it a great spot for those who love to swim and sunbathe.

Palafox Pier & Yacht Harbor

Also located in Pensacola, this marina offers a variety of amenities including a swimming pool, fitness center, laundry facilities, and a restaurant. It's a good liveaboard marina because it's located in the heart of downtown Pensacola and offers easy access to restaurants, shops, and entertainment.

Bayou Grande Marina

Bayou Grande Marina offers a variety of amenities including a ship store, boat rental services, and a fuel dock. It's one of the best live-aboard marinas because it's located in a quiet and peaceful area with easy access to the Gulf of Mexico.

Shalimar Yacht Basin

The Shalimar Yacht Basin is located in Shalimar, Florida, which is a small town in Okaloosa County. The marina offers a variety of amenities for liveaboard residents, including a full-service fuel dock, clean restroom and shower facilities, laundry facilities, pump-out station, Wi-Fi access, and cable TV.

The marina is conveniently located near many popular attractions, such as the Gulf of Mexico, Destin Harbor, and the Emerald Coast. The marina also has a strong sense of community, with many social events and activities organized throughout the year, making it a great place to meet other boaters and make new friends.

Destin Harbor Boardwalk

The Destin Harbor Boardwalk is a great spot for liveaboards who want to be close to all the action. The boardwalk is home to several restaurants, shops, and attractions, and it's just a short walk from several marinas.

This marina is also home to several other popular attractions, such as the Destin History and Fishing Museum, the HarborWalk Village, and the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. These attractions offer a variety of activities for visitors, including fishing charters, dolphin-watching tours, and water sports rentals.

Fort Walton Beach Landing

Fort Walton Beach Landing is a marina located in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, on the Gulf of Mexico. Some of the amenities offered here include:

Electricity and water hookups
Pump-out station
Restrooms and showers
Laundry facilities
Picnic areas and grills
Fishing pier

This marina is situated in a protected harbor, which means that boaters are sheltered from the wind and waves that can sometimes make life on a boat uncomfortable. Additionally, the marina is located near many restaurants, shops, and other attractions, making it easy for liveaboards to access everything they need.

Niceville Yacht Club

Niceville Yacht Club is another marina located in the Florida Panhandle, specifically in Niceville, Florida. It's a popular destination for boaters and liveaboards due to its location on the beautiful Choctawhatchee Bay and its great amenities, such as:

Swimming pool
Clubhouse with kitchen and lounge area

This marina also hosts regular events and activities for its members, which helps to foster a sense of camaraderie among boaters and liveaboards.

Bay Point Marina

Bay Point Marina is located on Grand Lagoon in Panama City Beach. The marina offers a variety of amenities, including a pool, a fitness center, and laundry facilities.

Additionally, Bay Point Marina provides easy access to the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrews Bay. The marina offers boat slips for rent, as well as boat rentals for those who don't own their own vessel. Here's how much a boat slip costs in Miami, Florida.

Fishing charters are also available from Bay Point Marina, allowing visitors to try their luck at catching a variety of fish species, including red snapper, grouper, and king mackerel.

Legendary Marina

Legendary Marina is located in Destin, Florida, and it offers high-end amenities for boaters. The marina is situated on Choctawhatchee Bay and has easy access to the Gulf of Mexico.

It also offers a variety of services, including boat rentals, fueling, and yacht sales. The marina also features a restaurant, a pool, and a fitness center. The liveaboard options at Legendary Marina come with a high price tag due to the luxurious amenities and services that the marina offers.

Sandestin Marina

Sandestin Marina is also located in Destin, Florida, and it offers a wide range of amenities for boaters. Sandestin Marina offers boat rentals, fueling, and yacht sales, as well as a variety of dining options, shopping, and entertainment.

The liveaboard options at Sandestin Marina are also priced higher due to the luxurious amenities and services that the marina offers, including access to the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort.

The table below shows some of the best liveaboard marinas in North Florida and the estimated monthly cost for each based on three budget types:

Green Cove Springs Marina

Green Cove Springs Marina is located just south of Jacksonville and is a great option for boaters looking for a more relaxed atmosphere. The marina has 220 slips, with rates starting at $10 per foot per month. Some of the amenities available include:

Showers and restrooms
On-site restaurant

Green Cove Springs Marina is also located near several great attractions, including the historic town of Green Cove Springs and the St. Johns River.

Marinas at Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a great place to live aboard your boat, with several marinas to choose from. One of the best options is the Marina at Ortega Landing, which offers a range of amenities and services for boaters. The marina has 192 slips, with rates starting at $15 per foot per month. Some of the amenities available include:

Fitness center

Another great option is the Jacksonville City Marina, located in the heart of downtown Jacksonville, and has 78 slips, with rates starting at $12 per foot per month. Some of the amenities available include:

24-hour security

If you plan to keep your boat in a marina in Florida, find out the different slip rates for each marina from this article.

Panama City Marina

If you are looking for a live-aboard marina on the Gulf Coast, the Panama City Marina is a great option. The marina has 125 slips, with rates starting at $12 per foot per month. Some of the amenities available include:

The Panama City Marina is also located near several great attractions, including the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrews State Park.

St. Augustine Municipal Marina

The St. Augustine Municipal Marina is a marina located in the historic city of St. Augustine, Florida. It offers a variety of amenities for boaters, including fuel, water, electricity, restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, and a pump-out station.

The marina is conveniently located near many popular attractions, including the historic district, restaurants, and shops. It is also a popular spot for fishing and boating enthusiasts, with easy access to the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean.

The table below shows some of the best liveaboard marinas in Central Florida and the estimated monthly cost for each based on three budget types:

Monroe Harbour Marina

Monroe Harbour Marina is a full-service marina located in Sanford, Florida, on the shores of Lake Monroe. The marina features 200 wet slips that can accommodate boats up to 60 feet in length.

The slips are equipped with water and electrical hookups, and the marina also provides Wi-Fi and cable TV services. The marina's fuel dock offers both gas and diesel fuel, and pump-out services are available for waste disposal.

In addition to its boating services, the marina also has a clubhouse with a lounge area, kitchen, and laundry facilities. There is also a swimming pool, a hot tub, and a picnic area available for use.

The location of Monroe Harbour Marina is ideal for boaters who want to explore the St. Johns River and the many lakes in the area. It is also within driving distance of many popular attractions, such as Disney World and Universal Studios in Orlando.

Ortega Villa Yacht Club Marina

Located in Jacksonville, Ortega Villa Yacht Club Marina is a great option for boaters looking for a quiet and peaceful marina. The marina offers 24-hour security, laundry facilities, and a clubhouse with a kitchen and lounge area.

The dockage rates are affordable, with slips ranging from $9 to $12 per foot per month. The marina can accommodate boats up to 50 feet in length.

Twin Dolphin Marina

Twin Dolphin Marina is located in Bradenton, just south of Tampa Bay. This marina offers a variety of amenities, including a heated pool, laundry facilities, and a ship store.

The marina also has a restaurant and bar on site. The dockage rates are reasonable, with slips ranging from $12 to $16 per foot per month. They can accommodate boats up to 60 feet in length.

Sanford Boat Works and Marina

Sanford Boat Works and Marina is located on Lake Monroe in Sanford, just north of Orlando. This marina offers a wide range of amenities, including a fuel dock, pump-out station, and laundry facilities.

The dockage rates are more affordable, with slips ranging from $8 to $14 per foot per month. The marina can also accommodate boats up to 60 feet in length.

The table below shows some of the best liveaboard marinas in South Florida and the estimated monthly cost for each based on three budget types:

Marinas in Miami

Miami is a vibrant city with plenty of marinas to choose from. Here are a few of the best liveaboard marinas in Miami:

Miami Beach Marina

Located in the heart of South Beach, this marina offers easy access to the city's restaurants, shops, and nightlife. It has 400 slips that can accommodate boats up to 250 feet long, and it offers amenities such as cable TV, Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities.

Dinner Key Marina

This marina is located in Coconut Grove and has 582 slips that can accommodate boats up to 175 feet long. It offers amenities such as a fuel dock, pump-out station, and laundry facilities.

Crandon Marina

Located on Key Biscayne, this marina has 200 slips that can accommodate boats up to 50 feet long. It offers amenities such as a fuel dock, a pump-out station, and a restaurant. It is also one of the cheapest places to dock your boat in Florida , with rates from $2.50 per foot per day for wet slips.

Marinas in Key West

Here are a few of the best liveaboard marinas in Key West:

Opal Key Resort and Marina

This marina is located in the heart of Old Town Key West and offers easy access to the city's restaurants, shops, and nightlife.

It has 245 slips that can accommodate boats up to 200 feet long, and it offers amenities such as a fuel dock, pump-out station, and laundry facilities.

Garrison Bight Marina

This marina is located on the north side of Key West and has 140 slips that can accommodate boats up to 70 feet long. It offers amenities such as a fuel dock, pump-out station, and a ship store.

Key West Bight Marina

This marina is located in the heart of Old Town Key West and has 33 slips that can accommodate boats up to 140 feet long. It offers amenities such as a fuel dock, pump-out station, and laundry facilities.

Marinas in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is known as the "Venice of America" because of its extensive network of canals and waterways. Here are a few of the best liveaboard marinas in this area:

Lauderdale Marine Center

This marina is located on the New River and has 160 slips that can accommodate boats up to 200 feet long. It offers amenities such as a fuel dock, pump-out station, and a ship store.

Cooley's Landing Marina

This marina is located on the New River and has 40 slips that can accommodate boats up to 60 feet long. It offers amenities such as a fuel dock, pump-out station, and laundry facilities.

Marinas at Southwest Florida

Legacy harbour marina.

Located in the heart of downtown Fort Myers, Legacy Harbour Marina is a great option for those who want to be close to restaurants, shops, and other amenities.

The marina offers floating docks, 30/50/100-amp power, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a fitness center. There's also a pool and hot tub on-site, as well as a waterfront restaurant and bar. The marina is also pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along for the adventure.

Burnt Store Marina

Located in Punta Gorda, Burnt Store Marina is a full-service marina with plenty of amenities for liveaboards. The marina offers floating docks, 30/50-amp power, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a fitness center.

Burnt Store Marina is located near several popular boating destinations, including Boca Grande, Charlotte Harbor, and the Gulf of Mexico.

The table below shows some of the best liveaboard marinas in East Coast Florida and the estimated monthly cost for each based on three budget types:

Riverside Marina

This marina is located on the Indian River and offers affordable rates for liveaboards. You'll have access to laundry facilities, restrooms, and showers, as well as a swimming pool and picnic area.

The marina offers boat slips, dry storage, fuel, bait, tackle, and a ship store. It is a full-service marina that can accommodate boats up to 120 feet in length.

Harbortown Marina

Harbortown Marina is located on the Indian River Lagoon, just a short distance from the Fort Pierce Inlet and the Atlantic Ocean. The marina offers 100 wet slips and 400 dry storage spaces for boats up to 100 feet in length.

In addition to the amenities mentioned, Harbortown Marina also has a fuel dock, pump-out station, and a ship store that sells boating supplies, snacks, and beverages.

The marina is located in a gated community and has 24-hour security. It is conveniently located near downtown Fort Pierce, which has a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions for boaters to enjoy.

Palm Harbor Marina

Palm Harbor Marina is a popular destination for liveaboards, with over 200 slips available for long-term rentals. The marina offers a range of amenities to make life on board more comfortable, including a fitness center, laundry facilities, and a swimming pool. There are also several restaurants and shops located within walking distance of the marina.

In addition to its amenities, Palm Harbor Marina also offers a range of services to boaters, including fueling, pump-out, and boat maintenance and repair. The marina has a team of experienced technicians who can handle everything from routine maintenance to major repairs.

Sailfish Marina Resort

Sailfish Marina Resort is a popular marina located on Singer Island in Palm Beach County, Florida. They offer a variety of amenities to boaters, including a restaurant, a swimming pool, and laundry facilities.

The restaurant called the Sailfish Marina Restaurant, is known for its fresh seafood and stunning waterfront views. The swimming pool is a great place to relax and cool off after a day out on the water, and the laundry facilities make it easy to keep your clothes and linens clean while on board.

Sailfish Marina Resort is also a popular destination for sportfishing enthusiasts. The marina hosts several fishing tournaments throughout the year and is home to a number of charter fishing boats.

Bahia Mar Marina

Bahia Mar Marina is located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and is one of the most popular marinas in the area. It offers a luxurious and comfortable experience for those who choose to live aboard their boats.

The marina is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including a fitness center, a swimming pool, and laundry facilities, making it an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy the best of both worlds - the freedom of living on a boat and the amenities of a luxury resort.

Pier Sixty-Six Marina

Pier Sixty-Six Marina is another high-end option in Fort Lauderdale, which offers a variety of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and a swimming pool.

In addition to these amenities, Pier Sixty-Six Marina also provides guests with access to a variety of dining options, ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Pier Sixty-Six Marina is also home to a variety of events throughout the year, including boat shows, fishing tournaments, and other water-related activities.

Below are some factors to keep in mind when selecting the best liveaboard marina for your needs:

Choose one with the most convenient location

You'll want to find a marina that is conveniently located near your work, family, and friends. You might also want to consider the surrounding area and the amenities available nearby.

For example, if you enjoy fishing, you may want to choose a marina that is located near good fishing spots. One well-known spot for these activities is the Florida Keys located off the southern coast of Florida.

Choose a marina that offers the amenities you need

Some marinas offer laundry facilities, swimming pools, and fitness centers. Others may have restaurants, bars, and shops on-site. You might need to make a list of the amenities that are important to you and choose a marina that offers them.

A marina with a high rating means that the marina provides a wider range of high-quality amenities that are well-maintained and easily accessible to boaters and yacht owners.

Check the price

When you own a boat in Florida , one of the recurring expenses goes for docking and slip fees in marinas. Some marinas are more expensive than others, such as those found in Northwest Florida like Bay Point Marina, Sandestin Marina, and Legendary Marina.

But, there are also affordable marinas such as Monroe Harbor Marina in Central Florida and Riverside Marina on the East Coast. However, keep in mind that some marinas charge additional fees for liveaboard status, so try to factor those costs into your budget as well.

Pick one with good security measures

You'll want to choose a marina that has good security measures in place to protect your boat and your belongings. Therefore, look for ones that have security cameras, gated entrances, and on-site security personnel.

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Living on a Boat in Florida – Best Liveaboard Marinas, Costs and Tips

Many people would consider switching their land-based life for living aboard if they could wake up to the sound of waves lapping against the boat and seagulls fluttering overhead. The liveaboard life appeals to many people, sailors or not. Thousands of people have already abandoned the hustle and bustle of the city and chose the liveaboard life. If you’re already a Florida resident, you’re probably a big fan of the weather, sea, and boats. You may have contemplated relocating to a boat because you are charmed with the idea of spending all of your time on the water.

In Florida, you can live aboard a boat, but you must follow certain laws and regulations. While it may appear to be a straightforward change of life, there are a variety of restrictions that apply to living aboard a boat. In this article, you’ll learn about living aboard a boat in Florida, the rules that govern this lifestyle, and any obstacles you might experience. So, keep reading!

Information about Living Aboard in Florida

Florida is a wonderful place to call home. There’s so much to do, so much to see, and so many job options. Florida has a reputation for being a strange state, but it is just that: a reputation. In fact, Florida is a very safe state with rigorous rules and a high level of transparency. Florida is an open book, so if that appeals to you, that may be enough of a reason to relocate there. Consider this if you’re looking for a job as well.

Keep in mind that there is no income tax in Florida. If you earn $50,000 a year, you could lose anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 in taxes each year. Getting a job there is like getting a raise right away. This is also something to keep in mind when calculating your marina slip budget. You’ll have a lot more disposable income, so you might be surprised at how much more you’ll have to spend on a high-end marina slip in a prime location.

Florida, or any other coastal area, appears to be an ideal spot for mooring your boat and living aboard. While this is a distinct possibility, there are numerous restrictions in place to safeguard both coastal marinas and boat owners. It’s crucial to keep in mind that not all boats are suitable for living on. The term “liveaboard vessel” refers to boats that are used to live on. When a boat is referred to as a liveaboard boat, it simply means that the owner chooses to make the vessel his permanent dwelling. Making your boat your home can be simple enough, but there are a few things to consider before making the step.

The decision to live on a boat is a major lifestyle change that should not be taken lightly. When you decide to live aboard a boat, you must first decide how long you want to stay. Some people choose to live aboard a boat only during the summer, while others wish to do so all year. If you live on the boat all year, you’ll probably have to give up your permanent house on the land. Because the boating lifestyle does not lend itself well to owning a lot of material goods, you will be giving up much of your possessions. Alternatively, you can store them when you give up your permanent house.

When you decide to make your boat your permanent home, you must consider how you will receive mail and other important items. Remember that a floating home usually lacks a physical address or mailbox. In addition, before you decide to leave up to your land life in favor of the open water, you should research the legal implications of your decision. While living aboard your boat may not appear to be a problem, there are laws that must be followed or you may be fined. Also, while living aboard a boat may seem like a dream come true, you must consider safety concerns before making your decision.

In terms of keeping trespassers at bay and withstand harsh weather, a boat is not as secure as a house. To protect your safety while living on a boat, make sure you have a plan in place to ensure you can deal with severe weather. This will not only protect you, but it will also most likely safeguard your boat, which is now your home.

>>Also Read: All You Need to Know About The Liveaboard Life

Best Liveaboard Marinas in Florida

Liveaboard marinas can be wonderful communities full of nice people. However, finding one that is appropriate for you and your needs requires some searching. Note that liveaboards are not permitted in all marinas. It’s sometimes due to their government authorization prohibiting permanent residents from boarding boats in the marina. This is becoming an increasingly common occurrence across the United States. If you still have a job that requires you to go to an office or factory every day, you’ll need to find a location close to your workplace. On the other hand, if you are actually retired and have the freedom to live wherever you want, your marina options may be more limited.

If you prefer peace and quiet, you should look for a marina in a quiet location. On the other hand, if you prefer parties and a vibrant boating community there are many marinas in Florida that can offer this. Keep in mind that some marinas can be extremely safe to live in. Look for facilities that include security gates at each pier and a nighttime watchman. If you choose to use your boat’s head and shower, the size, and quality of the marina restrooms won’t be that important. However, if you want to keep your holding tank empty and have endless hot water in your showers, look for a marina with a restroom.

Unless you have a very large boat, a marina with a clean, modern laundromat with working machines is what you should look for. Moreover, modern pedestals and finger piers are also options in some Florida marinas. These will include electricity, water, and cable television. You can also enter your boat from the side with a finger pier. If you don’t have one, you’ll have to clamber aboard the bow or stern, depending on which is closest to the main dock. You can consider a lockbox affixed to the dock adjacent to the pedestal a pleasant extra if the marina provides one.

>>Also Read: Living on a Boat in Texas: What you Need to Know

List of the Best Liveaboard Marinas in Florida

Finding the perfect marina for you will be determined by a number of factors. These are the duration of your liveaboard life, the length and type of boat, the location, and your needs. The location is crucial, just as it is when purchasing a home. Note that the marinas are organized by location first, then by quality. The better the marina, the higher it appears on the list. Of course, it is up to you to choose which marina is ideal for you. For example, if your job is in Miami or if you want a job there, then you should find a marina in Miami.

Keep in mind that it’s much easier to find something in South Florida than it is in the north. When it comes to the north, you’ll quickly find that your alternatives are very limited. In North Central Florida, for example, the Sea Hag Marina in Steinhatchee is the only marina in the region. The south, on the other hand, has roughly 20 options. But, there is nothing wrong with living in the north; nonetheless, it does not provide as many options as the south.

So, Here’s the List of the Best Liveaboard Marinas in Florida:

North West Florida

Bay Point Marina in Panama City Beach
Panama City Marina in Panama City

North East Florida

Fernandina Harbor Marina in Fernandina Beach
Ortega Villa Yacht Club Marina in Jacksonville
Mandarin Holiday Marina in Jacksonville

North Central Florida

Sea Hag Marina in Steinhatchee

Central Florida

Astor Bridge Marina in Astor
Green Cove Marina in Green Cove Springs
Sanford Boat Works and Marina in Sanford
Monroe Harbour Marina in Sanford

Central East Florida

Fort Pierce City Marina in Fort Pierce
Eau Gallie Yacht Basin in Melbourne
Halifax Harbor Marina in Daytona Beach
Melbourne Harbor Marina in Melbourne
Vero Beach Municipal Marina Vero Beach
New Smyrna City Marina in New Smyrna Beach
Titusville Municipal Marina in Titusville
Harbortown Marina in Fort Pierce
Harbortown Marina in Merrit Island

Central West Florida

Blind Pass Marina in Saint Pete Beach
Harborage Marina in Saint Petersburg
Longboat Key Club Moorings in Bradenton
Saint Petersburg Municipal Marina in Saint Pete
Pasadena Marina in Saint Petersburg
Gulfport Municipal Marina in Gulfport
Riviera Dunes Marina in Palmetto
Twin Dolphin Marina in Bradenton
Regatta Pointe Marina in Bradenton

South East Florida

Dinner Key Marina in Coconut Grove Miami
Hollywood Marina in Hollywood
Miami Beach Marina in Miami Beach
Harbour Town Marina in Dania
Lauderdale Marine Center in Fort Lauderdale
Marina Bay Resort in Fort Lauderdale
Boot Key Harbour City Marina in Marathon
Palm Harbour Marina in West Palm Beach
Royale Palm Yacht Basin in Dania Beach

South West Florida

Burnt Store Marina in Punta Gorda
Marco Island Marina in Marco Island
Old Cover Marina in Naples
Port of the Islands Marina in Naples
Marinatown Yacht Harbour in North Fort Myers
Snook Bight Marina in Fort Myers Beach
Legacy Harbour Marina in Fort Myers
Calusa Island Marina in Goodland

Liveaboard Life in Florida

In Florida, the liveaboard life can be either pleasant or to be avoided. This will depend mostly on your preferences and character. One of the most important aspects of Florida is that it’s quite hot, which is fantastic. Florida is also incredibly humid, so you will probably need a dehumidifier. Note that a large part of Florida is swampland, which, combined with the humid air, creates the ideal environment for mosquitos and other insects. On the other hand, if you live near the city’s coast, you’ll notice that there are significantly fewer insects. Furthermore, depending on where you live in Florida, you might find the party culture to be annoying. For instance, Miami is a wild, party place for wealthy people. If this isn’t an issue for you, that’s fantastic! Perhaps you are young, inebriated, and wealthy.

If, on the other hand, you want to avoid this way of life, then you have to find another area to liveaboard in Florida. If you want to escape this type of nightlife, it’s best to stay in Tampa Bay instead of Miami Beach. Tampa, contrary to popular belief, is a much more laid-back city. The weather is mostly pleasant and there is nothing to be concerned about on a daily basis. However, bugs are annoying, but they aren’t always a major issue. Storms, on the other hand, can be a major issue. Tropical storms, tornadoes, hurricanes, twisters, and cyclones occur often in Florida. For this reason, many people chose to live in safer locations than Florida. So, it’s possible that you’ll have to drop anchor and sail to safer waters.

If everything said above has made you desire to live in Florida even more, then it’s time to decide where you want to live. Choosing a marina is less of a commitment than renting an apartment because leases are typically shorter and more flexible. However, this usually comes with a cost. By signing a longer lease, you will be able to get a much better bargain. As a result, it’s critical to do your best to choose the ideal marina for you the first time. In the long term, it could save you a small fortune.

>>Also Read: Best Sailboats to Live On

Costs of Living Aboard in Florida

Marinas in Florida are not cheap. Florida is a year-round vacation spot and a popular starting point for boaters heading to the Bahamas or the Caribbean. Furthermore, it’s a favorite winter destination for boaters from all over the country who don’t want to deal with winterizing their boats. When looking for a marina, it’s crucial to know how long you want to stay. Your rate will be lower if you can commit for a longer period of time. Many marinas charge a transitory fee on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis, with discounts for longer stays. Annual slip holders, on the other hand, benefit from the best rates.

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. It’s more difficult to get information about marinas that only service long-term residents. A nice place to start is WaterwayGuide.com, which has marina listings. Their ads include some basic pricing information as well as information on whether or not liveaboards are permitted.

If done correctly, living aboard can be a cost-effective way of life. If you know your way around your boat, conducting your own maintenance and repairs will save you money. And, note that heating or cooling your boat will be significantly less expensive than doing so in an apartment. Moreover, your boat might not even have an engine in some circumstances. This eliminates one of the most significant costs of owning or managing a boat. Lastly, some people are quite content to stay in the marina and never leave. They call a towboat if they need to move. Houseboats are popular among these people.

>>Also Read: How Much Does It Cost To Live On a Boat

Things to Keep in Mind before Choosing the Liveaboard Life in Florida

First and foremost, a harsh reality: Florida is one of the least welcoming states for liveaboard boaters. This is because the cost of a slip is high, and just a few marinas allow individuals to live on their boats. When you add in the constant flux of regulations on where liveaboard boaters can stay and anchor, you will feel totally confused.

Note that slips fill up quickly during the hectic winter season. Cruisers are known to plan their winter vacations months in advance. So don’t be surprised if you have to try a few marinas before finding the ideal for your needs. When you factor in the difficulty of finding a location that permits you to live onboard, keep in mind that you will have to do a lot of research beforehand. You should, of course, go to the marina before showing up or making a reservation.

Even the word “liveaboard” might raise a red flag for many dockmasters when asking about slips. Every marina dockmaster dreads the idea of a boat that is no longer seaworthy and is being used as nothing more than a cheap floating hotel. Which is also a recipe for an unattractive and environmentally disastrous situation. These boats have tarnished the term to the point where every marina interaction feels like walking on thin ice. Before agreeing to lease you a slip, more savvy dockmasters may want photos of your boat and confirmation of insurance. Don’t be surprised if you feel as if you’re being interviewed for the position—you are.

It’s almost always easier for a dockmaster to simply say, “No, we don’t allow liveaboards,” than putting out a cohesive and fair plan to allow only “good” liveaboards. Dockmasters aren’t the only ones who impose restrictions on slip holders. Living aboard a boat is prohibited in many Florida communities. Moving around with your boat is a way to prevent all these from happening. Every marina has a favorite type of liveaboard boater: the cruiser. You may sometimes get quarterly dockage rates if you stay for one, two, or even three months at a time, and you are more or less free of the hassles associated with the Florida “liveaboard” cliché.

Bear in mind that in popular anchorages throughout Florida, many communities install mooring fields. The problem of derelict and abandoned vessels at anchor is one element contributing to the trend. Cleaning up the sunk or beached vessels following storms has become a state-wide issue. So, the state can use mooring fields to set legal restrictions on where you can anchor. Moorings are a tempting choice because they save a lot of money over dock space. Some mooring sites offer shuttle services and are highly accommodating to liveaboards. While they like to reserve the majority of the moorings for passing boats, they usually have a more appealing month-to-month cost. And, if you want to anchor, there are still lots of options.

Hurricane Season in Florida

The marina’s location and storm policies are also important factors to consider when looking for a marina. Don’t think you’ll be fine if you leave your boat in the slip. Even if the insurance provider does not demand it, every Floridian should have an emergency plan in place before time. A few marinas have built-in “hurricane holes” where you will be able to leave your boat safely. It should have heavy-duty pilings atop floating docks and be sheltered from all directions from winds and tides. Even still, if a powerful storm makes landfall nearby, there’s a good possibility that it will destroy a lot. This is because the state of Florida is flat, and storms can be severe.

Some marinas with less protection may have an evacuation policy. To put it another way, they’ll inform you that you have to leave your boat at their marina in case of emergency. Keep in mind that this will happen with three days’ warning or less. Preparing a boat for a storm may entail transporting it hundreds of miles or removing it from the sea. So, it’s important to prepare ahead of time and be aware of what you’re going to do in case of a storm or hurricane .

>>Also Read: Living on a Boat in California: What you Need to Know

Living on a Boat in Florida – The Bottom Line

As you can see, liveaboard life in Florida can be amazing if you play your cards right. Hopefully, one of the marinas in Florida will cover your needs. However, it’s difficult to give a definitive answer for the best marina in Florida. Every marina has its own set of regulations and restrictions. In addition, what may be ideal for you may not be ideal for someone else. It all depends on your budget, needs, and on your boat. Of course, you’re in luck if you work from home and have the freedom to live wherever you like.

Keep in mind that some of the marinas in the north are far less expensive and quieter than marinas in South Florida. They provide a much slower pace of living. On the other hand, they don’t provide as many chances for jobs or recreation. On South Beach, there is more to do than in the north. Remember that if water and electricity aren’t included in the lease, you’ll need to receive a quote before deciding on a location to live in. It may appear to be less expensive at first, but once all the other costs are factored in, it becomes significantly more costly.

I hope that this article has helped you find out whether or not you want to liveaboard in Florida. It is totally feasible and it can also be cheap if you choose the right marina and location. I wish you all luck with your research!

Peter is the editor of Better Sailing. He has sailed for countless hours and has maintained his own boats and sailboats for years. After years of trial and error, he decided to start this website to share the knowledge.

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The Best Liveaboard Marinas In Florida

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

June 15, 2022

If you are lucky enough to be able to live aboard your boat, the world is your oyster. Yes, truly. The world. You have a luxury that very few people do. 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. Where do you want to live? The answer to that varies from person to person. Maybe you want to be close to a big city? Maybe you want to be near family? Maybe you want great access to the rest of the world? Maybe you want to live where the weather is good, the people are friendly, and the food is great? Maybe you want to liveaboard in Florida.

If that is the case, you are in luck, this article will act as your guide. This article not only explains why you might want to live in Florida but where exactly would be best for you. Here are some of the best liveaboard marinas in Florida.

Table of contents

Why might someone want to live aboard their boat in Florida?

Florida is a fantastic place to live. There is so much to do, so much to see, and the work opportunities are abundant. Florida may have a reputation for being a weird state, but that’s all talk.

Florida is very safe, it has strict laws with impressive transparency. Florida is an open book, if that’s something that appeals to you, maybe that alone is a good reason to move there.

If you are looking for a financial incentive, consider this. Florida has zero income tax. That’s right – 0% income tax. If you are someone making $50k a year, you may lose anywhere from $5k-$15k from that in taxes every year.

In Florida, you would keep all of that. Moving there is like getting an immediate raise. It is also important to consider this when you are factoring in your budget for a marina slip.

You will have far more disposable income, so you may be surprised how much more you have to spend on a high-quality marina slip in a prime location.

What are some things to consider when living aboard your boat in Florida?

Not everything in Florida is sunshine and rainbows. A lot of it is, but not everything. Florida is very hot, which is great. Florida is also very humid, which you might not enjoy as much. A lot of Florida is swampland, which when combined with the humid air, offers the perfect climate for mosquitos and other insects. If this is something that will bother you, maybe Florida isn’t for you. On the other hand, if you are living along the coast very close to the city there are going to be far fewer insects. Not none, but less.

Additionally, depending on where you live in Florida you may find the party culture uncomfortable. Miami can be crazy. It is a playground for the young, drunk, and wealthy. If this isn’t a problem for you, great! Maybe you are young, drunk, and wealthy yourself. If, on the other hand, you have left your partying and binge drinking behind you this may become rather grating over time. If you are trying to avoid this kind of nightlife, its a good idea to stick to Tampa Bay rather than Miami Beach. Despite what you might think, Tampa is far more relaxed.

The weather has been touched on briefly, day to day you have nothing to worry about. Bugs are annoying but not necessarily a big problem. What can be a big problem is the storms. Florida bears the brunt of a lot of tropical storms, tornados, hurricanes, twisters, cyclones, whatever you want to call them. A lot of them hit Florida. It isn’t uncommon for people to evacuate yearly for safer waters. This is typically a metaphor for ordinary folk. For people who live aboard their boat, this is literal. You may genuinely need to weigh anchor and sail for safer waters. Heading up the coast to New York in a hurry is a pain. It can also be very expensive.

If everything mentioned above has left you still wanting to live in Florida, perhaps it even made you more excited, then its time to pick where you might like to live. Choosing a Marina is not as much of a commitment as renting an apartment, leases can be far shorter and much more flexible. But, this normally comes at a price. You will be able to get a much better deal by committing to a longer lease. So, doing your best to make sure you pick the best marina for you the first time around is very important. It could end up saving you a small fortune in the long run. This next section is here to help you do just that.

What should I be looking for in my marina?

Your marina needs to work for you. How much your money will get you varies from place to place. Do you want to live as close to Miami as possible? Great. But you may only be able to afford the most basic marina. This is a marina with little to no added amenities, electricity and water may not even be included. Here are some things you might not have considered that you need, but that you might miss once you are without them.

Washing and drying facilities

If you are living on your boat, unless its a mega-yacht, chances are you don’t have a washer or dryer. This means having to rely on a laundromat. Which is fine, of course. But, when you consider you likely don’t have a car can become a real pain. You will need to do laundry at a minimum once or twice a week. Having to take a bus across town with all your dirty clothes is going to be tedious at best. That’s why choosing a marina with good washing and drying facilities is so important. It can save you a lot of headaches. And a lot of money, as the machines are typically free. They won’t be free in a laundromat, that’s for sure.

Being stuck on a boat is some people’s idea of heaven. But, it isn’t heaven for your body. People need to move around as much as possible. This is good for both mental and physical wellbeing. Having to go across town to find a decent gym is inconvenient, some marinas will have a gym and swimming pool included on the premises. This isn’t a necessity, just something that you might want to consider when choosing between two otherwise equal marinas.

Power and water hookups

Not all marinas come with power and water hookups. You will not only want but need access to both of these things if you plan to be there long term. If power and water are not included in your lease, you will need to discuss how much extra these will be. The cost of power especially can start to add up over the year. It is just something to consider when comparing multiple locations.

Not all marinas will come with wifi, those that do may not have particularly good wifi. But, bad wifi is better than no wifi. Of course, you can set up a connection yourself with a satellite router. But this isn’t always ideal. If you do manage to find a marina to provides wifi, even if it isn’t free, this should put it at the front of the running. If you are planning on working from your boat, doing so without wifi might not be ideal or even possible.

Having good security is important. If you are living aboard your boat that is likely where everything you own is. Boats are not the hardest to break in to. Someone who is determined could be in and out of your boat in 5 minutes with everything of value. That’s why choosing a marina that’s gated, has CCTV, and even has 24/7 security is not only ideal but advised.

The Best Liveaboard Marinas in Florida

Finding the best Marina for you will depend on a lot of things, many of them were touched on above. But for the most part, it is two things. Location and price. Just like when buying a house, location is everything. Here are some of the best liveaboard marinas in Florida sorted by location. Hopefully, at least one or more of them will be what you are looking for.

The marinas are listed first by location and then by the quality. The higher up the list the marina is the better it is, not the more expensive it is. Of course, it is up for you to decide which of the marinas is best for you. If you are looking for the most job prospects, the closer to Miami the better. Finding something in South Florida is far easier than finding something in the north. You will quickly notice that when it comes to the north, your options are very limited. North Central Florida for example only has the Sea Hag Marina, in Steinhatchee, in its entire segment. Whereas there are about 20 choices for the south. There is nothing wrong with choosing to live in the north, it just doesn’t afford as many opportunities as the south does.

North West Florida

Bay Point Marina in Panama City Beach
Panama City Marina in Panama City

North Central Florida

Sea Hag Marina in Steinhatchee

North East Florida

Fernandina Harbor Marina in Fernandina Beach
Mandarin Holiday Marina in Jacksonville
Ortega Villa Yacht Club Marina in Jacksonville

Central East Florida

Eau Gallie Yacht Basin in Melbourne
Fort Pierce City Marina in Fort Pierce
Halifax Harbor Marina in Daytona Beach
Harbortown Marina in Merrit Island
Melbourne Harbor Marina in Melbourne
New Smyrna City Marina in New Smyrna Beach
Titusville Municipal Marina in Titusville
Harbortown Marina in Fort Pierce
Vero Beach Municipal Marina Vero Beach

Central Florida

Astor Bridge Marina in Astor
Green Cove Springs Marina in Green Cove Springs
Monroe Harbour Marina in Sanford
Sanford Boat Works and Marina in Sanford

Central West Florida

Blind Pass Marina in Saint Pete Beach
Gulfport Municipal Marina in Gulfport
Harborage Marina in Saint Petersburg
Longboat Key Club Moorings in Bradenton
Pasadena Marina in Saint Petersburg
Regatta Pointe Marina in Bradenton
Riviera Dunes Marina in Palmetto
Saint Petersburg Municipal Marina in Saint Pete
Twin Dolphin Marina in Bradenton

South West Florida

Burnt Store Marina in Punta Gorda
Calusa Island Marina in Goodland
Fort Myers City Yacht Basin in Fort Myers
Legacy Harbour Marina in Fort Myers
Marco Island Marina in Marco Island
Marinatown Yacht Harbour in North Fort Myers
Old Cover Marina in Naples
Port of the Islands Marina in Naples
Snook Bight Marina in Fort Myers Beach

South East Florida

Boot Key Harbour City Marina in Marathon
Dinner Key Marina in Coconut Grove Miami
Hollywood Marina in Hollywood
Harbour Town Marina in Dania
Lauderdale Marine Center in Fort Lauderdale
Marina Bay Resort in Fort Lauderdale
Miami Beach Marina in Miami Beach
Palm Harbour Marina in West Palm Beach
Royale Palm Yacht Basin in Dania Beach

Hopefully, one of the above marinas has what you are looking for. A definitive answer for the best marina in Florida is very hard to answer. You could even argue that it is impossible. What is perfect for you might not be perfect for someone else. It depends so much on your budget and needs. If you are free to live wherever you choose because you work from home; then you are in luck. Some of the more northern marinas are a lot cheaper and far quieter. They offer a much more relaxed pace of life. Conversely, though, they don’t offer as many opportunities for work or play. There is more to do on South Beach than there is in the north. That’s for sure.

Remember, if water and power aren’t included in the lease you need to get an estimate before you choose a place. It may look cheaper but in the end, winds up being far more expensive when all the extra bills come in to play.

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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How To Live on a Boat in Florida: Laws, Liveaboard, and Houseboats!

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Being lulled to sleep by the gentle waves of the ocean and waking up to the sound of seagulls and other marine wildlife is a very romantic and attractive idea. This type of fantasy leads many people to look for, or at least consider, a life on a boat, away from the land. This may be especially true if you’re already in love with the climate and water of Florida.

You can live on a boat in Florida, and you can do this safely and legally. However, there are laws that govern this kind of lifestyle, and you should be well-acquainted with them before choosing to move to a boat. If you follow the laws, you’ll be able to live on a boat very easily.

So, let’s get into the costs, legality, and some popular types of liveaboards to help you see for yourself if you can afford the lifestyle and if it’s the right choice for you. If done right, living on a boat can be a wonderful experience and a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Let’s dive into it!

If you’re interested, I can also suggest 11 incredible locations around the world that are perfect for liveaboard enthusiasts to explore.

Table of Contents

What Is Considered a Liveaboard in Florida?

A liveaboard is a vessel that serves as a person’s primary residence. In other words, it’s a vessel that a person uses primarily as their house. This does not mean that you’re not permitted to use the vessel for anything else; you’re permitted to use it for recreational purposes as well.

Therefore, a boat you use, let’s say, for fishing and sometimes sleep on, is not a liveaboard. But if you live on it and occasionally go for a sail, it is a liveaboard.

If you’re still unsure about what type of boat would be the best fit for liveaboard purposes, I can provide you with valuable insights on the topic through my article.

The Cost of Living on a Boat in Florida

Just like with every major life decision, budgeting is the primary task you have to complete before moving on to fulfilling your wishes. We have to take a look at and analyze some key elements.

There are two basic costs you have to pay attention to:

A marina slip

A marina slip or a boat slip is like a parking space for your boat , that is, the place where your boat will be anchored. A monthly slip for a 40-foot (12-meter) boat can cost between $800 and $2000, depending on the location.

The price of the slip depends on the location – the more popular your area is, the more it’s going to cost.

Another critical factor is how long you’re going to stay. If you can commit for a more extended period, you’ll pay less. If you can commit for an entire year, the price may go from $11 per foot (per 0.3 meters) per month. You might negotiate an even better deal if you stay longer.

The prices of boats vary widely based on the size of the vessel and its type. You can count on spending at least $30,000 on a smaller boat, and it’s safe to say that there’s no upper limit to the price. Keep in mind that bigger boats need more space. Therefore, the slips for them are more expensive.

Apart from those basic costs, you’ll also need to take into account taxes, fuel, maintenance, insurance, and so on. These costs are highly variable, so it’s hard to give an exact number.

Taxes can be the most expensive cost when it comes to these costs. Florida has a sales and use ta x of 6% of the boat’s value. You’ll need to take that into consideration.

Are Houseboats Legal in Florida?

Houseboats are legal in Florida. It’s essential to understand the laws concerning houseboats, such as installing a proper toilet, and mooring outside prohibited areas.

One of the laws that you have to follow states that your houseboat, just like any vessel, has to have a proper toilet installed, which means that you’re not allowed to drain your sewage into the water.

However, there have recently been some problems when it comes to anchoring in Florida. Many cities have been trying to limit the time you can remain anchored , which may complicate your living situation. This has raised the concern of many houseboat owners.

You’ll need to check with your local authorities to know if and how long you’re allowed to anchor and what rules you have to adhere to. Some places may allow you to anchor your houseboat there, while some may not.

Of course, you’ll also have to respect regular safety practices and not operate your houseboat under the influence.

When are Houseboats Allowed and When are They Not?

Houseboats are not legally allowed to be in a navigable waterway, channel, or mooring field. You’re also not allowed to stay in a protected area, and you can pay if you do so. However, as long as you’re in a designated liveaboard area and follow the rules, living on a boat in Florida is legal.

It’s best to check if a marina you’re interested in allows liveaboards. Some don’t, so you can’t just drop an anchor everywhere.

In some places, there is a new law that you’re also required to pay a $5 permit and to pump your sewage at a designated area.

Living on a boat in Florida is legal and possible. If you can afford it, and if such a lifestyle attracts you, you can start with the preparations.

You have to budget for the marine slip and the boat, as well as taxes and the cost of maintenance. You’ll have to decide if the expenses are worth it for you. In some cases, living on land may be cheaper, albeit less romantic.

Local regulations and laws have to be observed, as well as the rules enforced by marinas. Be sure to check everything with the local authorities.

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Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

The Best and Cheapest Florida Liveaboard Marinas [LIST]

For many residents of eastern North America, Florida is the perfect winter destination. It gets brutally hot during the summer, but during winter snow is rare and most of the state doesn’t even see a single frost. Add in some tropical islands marina and a palm tree-lined beach, and what better place could there be to live on your boat?

But Florida has more registered boats than any other state, plus a huge influx of snowbirds every season as the weather chills up north. Finding a marina in Florida can be challenging, to say the least.

Here’s a look at the state’s liveaboard marina options by region. There are some lovely parts of Florida worth considering, and while slips are generally quite pricy, some bargains can be found in the quieter areas.

Northwest florida/jacksonville and saint augustine, central florida east coast, southeast florida, florida keys, florida gulf coast, florida panhandle, most affordable florida marinas, liveaboard marinas in florida, hurricane season, marinas versus moorings, monthly cost, tips for choosing a marina, 1. boat size, 2. docking requirements and regulations, 3. finding a dock, 4. local ordinances and hoa rules.

The Best and Cheapest Liveaboard Marinas in Florida_Where you make it

Best Liveaboard Marinas by Area in Florida

The marinas listed here are collected from our own experiences. Many specific marinas are not mentioned due to the constant fluctuations in the rules. Even if you find that a marina is listed as liveaboard-friendly, things may have changed.

The only way to honestly know is to either call or visit. Visiting is almost always better because you’ll be able to chat with the dockmaster and see the boats that you’ll be calling neighbors.

Northwest Florida has a few nice areas to choose from. Up the St. Johns River has some excellent sailboat sailing, cruising, and several wonderful marinas past Jacksonville. Upriver liveaboard marinas in Florida tend to be value-priced by Florida standards. Saint Augustine is a popular cruising stopover on the way north or south, and slips there are anything but value-priced.

Amelia Island/Fernandina Beach
Jacksonville— Ortega River
Green Cove Springs
Saint Augustine City Mooring Field

The central Florida marinas are almost all located along the ICW in the calm waters of the Indian River Lagoon. There are draft and height limits—bridges along this section of the ICW are only 65 feet tall.

Titusville Marina and moorings
Harbortown Marina, Canaveral
Vero Beach City Marina and moorings
Fort Pierce

The stretch from Stuart and Palm Beach down to Miami is the busiest part of Florida, and for boaters, it’s also the most expensive. With so many boats and a limited number of places to build marinas, simple supply and demand economics take over.

North Palm Beach Marina
Hollywood Harbour Town Marina
Dinner Key Marina and moorings, Miami

Some famous singers have made careers out of luring people to the “fabulous” Florida Keys. It’s a beautiful place, but there aren’t many marinas and navigating these shallow and coral reef-strewn waters is tricker than you might imagine. Since it’s one of the most popular and exclusive destinations in Florida, prices for the few marina spots are high.

Mangrove Marina, Tavernier
Boot Key Harbor moorings, Marathon
Key West City moorings

The west coast of Florida is much less busy and more laid back than the east coast. As a result, you’ll find more marina options on the calm Gulf of Mexico side, and those slips that you do find will be more affordable. Tampa Bay, especially, has lots of sailing and excellent marinas in Florida.

Port of Islands Marina, Naples
Calusa Island Marina, Goodland
Fort Myers Beach City mooring Field
Legacy Harbor Marina, Fort Myers
Burnt Store Marina, Charlotte Harbor
Tampa Bay Area, multiple marinas
Western Bay/Ruskin
St. Petersburg City Marina
Blind Pass Marina, St. Pete Beach

On the West Coast of Florida, St. Petersburg is also one of the best places to retire in Florida .

The Florida panhandle has few major ports and only a few small fishing and beach towns with marinas. Pensacola is the place to go for city amenities, and there are quite a few marina options there. The panhandle is overlooked by many boaters, so marinas here can be much cheaper than in other parts of the state.

Steinhatchee
Pirates Cove Marina, Panama City

In our experience, in terms of cost, these are our picks for the cheapest marinas:

Shop around, look for private docks to rent, and investigate every possible marina to find the most affordable options for your budget.

First off, a bitter truth—Florida is one of the least friendly states for a liveaboard boat. Slip fees are expensive, and there are very few marinas that allow people to live aboard their boats. Add in a constant flux of restrictions on where liveaboard boaters can stay and where they can anchor, and the recipe is set for.

During the busy winter season, slips start filling up fast. It’s not uncommon for cruisers to make their winter plans months in advance. So don’t be surprised if you have to try multiple marinas before you find anything that has availability. When you add in the complexity of finding a place that allows living on a boat —well, expect to dedicate some time to your search.

You want to visit the marina before you show up or make a reservation. When asking about slips, even the word “liveaboard” can be a red flag for many dockmasters. Every marina dockmaster fears the derelict boat that is no longer seaworthy, serving as nothing more than cheap floating accommodations—a recipe for an unsightly and environmental nightmare. These boats have given the word a bad reputation, so much so that every marina encounter feels like you’re treading on thin ice.

Smarter dockmasters may ask for pictures of your sailboat and proof of insurance before agreeing to lease you a slip. Don’t be surprised if you feel a little like you’re being interviewed for the position—because you are. It’s nearly always easiest for a dockmaster to simply say, “No, we do not allow liveaboards” than to cobble together a cohesive and fair plan to only allow “nice” liveaboards.

It’s not just the dockmasters that put restrictions on slip holders. Many municipalities in Florida have stringent limits on living aboard boats.

One way to avoid all of this trouble is to keep your boat moving. There’s one type of liveaboard boater that every marina loves—the cruiser. If you stay for one, two, or even three months at a time, you can often get quarterly dockage rates, and you are more or less free of the problems associated with the Florida “liveaboard” stereotype.

Other major considerations when marina shopping is the marina’s location and its storm policy. Don’t assume that you can leave your boat in its slip and be alright. Every Floridian needs to have a storm plan worked out in advance, even if their insurance company does not explicitly require it.

A few marinas are built-in very protected “hurricane holes” where it may be safe to leave your boat. It should have floating docks with heavy-duty pilings and be protected from winds and seas in all directions. Still, if a strong storm makes landfall nearby, chances are not much will be left. Florida is flat, and the storms can be fierce.

Less protected marinas may have an evacuation policy. In other words, they will tell you that you must move your boat out of their marina. Remember, this is going to happen with three days’ notice or less. Prepping a boat for a storm may mean moving it several hundred miles or hauling it out of the water. Be ready and know what you’re going to do in advance!

Many municipalities in Florida have installed mooring fields in popular anchorages. There are many reasons for the trend, but one factor is the problem of derelict and abandoned vessels at anchor. Cleaning up these vessels that sink or beach after storms have become a state-wide problem. Mooring fields provide a legal method for the cities and the state to impose limits on where you can anchor.

Moorings often provide an enticing option that saves a lot of money over dock space. Some mooring fields run shuttle services and are very liveaboard-friendly. While they like to reserve most of the moorings for traveling boaters passing through the area, they usually have a more attractive month-to-month rate.

And there are still plenty of places to anchor should you wish to.

Florida marinas are expensive. Florida is a year-round destination, and it’s a popular jumping-off point for boaters looking to head to The Bahamas or the Caribbean. In the winter, it’s a popular destination for boaters from the rest of the country who don’t want to face winterizing their vessels.

When shopping around, it’s important to know how long you want to stay at a marina. The longer you can commit, the cheaper your rate will be. Many marinas charge a daily, weekly, or monthly transient rate with discounts for the longer you stay. Annual slip holders, though, get the best rates.

Monthly slips in Florida for a 40-foot vessel realistically range from about $800 to well over $2,000 per month. In popular resort towns like Miami Beach or Key West, you’ll probably pay double that. So shop around, look for private docks to rent, and look at satellite photos to investigate every possible marina. Marinas that only serve long-term tenants are harder to find information on.

A good starting point is WaterwayGuide.com, where you can view marinas. Their listings have some basic price information, and you can see whether or not liveaboards are allowed.

Here are some tips to help you select the best marina for your situation:

Location : Consider the marina’s proximity to your desired cruising areas, as well as its accessibility to amenities like fuel, groceries, and boat services.
Amenities : Look for marinas that offer the amenities you need, such as shore power, water, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, showers, and restrooms.
Size and layout : Ensure that the marina can accommodate your boat’s size and draft. Check if the marina layout and slip arrangements are suitable for your vessel.
Security : Assess the marina’s security measures, such as gated access, surveillance cameras, and on-site staff.
Protection : If you plan to keep your boat in the marina during storm seasons, ensure that it offers adequate protection from high winds and surges.
Liveaboard policies : If you intend to live aboard your boat, verify the marina’s liveaboard policies and availability of long-term slips.
Community : Consider the marina’s community and whether it aligns with your lifestyle. Some marinas cater to specific interests like fishing, sailing, or social activities.
Price : Compare the marina’s rates with your budget, considering factors like slip fees, liveaboard fees, and additional charges for utilities and amenities.
Reputation : Research the marina’s reputation by reading reviews, talking to other boaters, and visiting the facility in person to gauge its overall atmosphere and management.
Lease terms : Carefully review the marina’s lease agreement, including the length of the lease, cancellation policies, and any restrictions or rules you must follow.

Florida Boat Size and Docking Requirements

The rules and regulations can vary based on local jurisdictions, waterways, and specific marinas or docking facilities, but there are general guidelines and requirements that tend to apply universally.

It’s a good idea to check with local authorities or the specific marina you’re interested in.

Length : The size of the boat, especially its length, directly impacts the type of docking facilities you can use. Larger boats may require specialized marinas with deep water docks and more space for maneuvering.
Beam (Width) : The beam of your boat will also determine the types of slips available to you. Wider boats need wider slips, which might not be available at all marinas.
Draft : The draft of your boat (how much of it is underwater) is crucial, especially in Florida where many areas are shallow. Knowing your draft helps you avoid grounding and ensures you choose docks that can accommodate your boat’s needs.
Permits and Documentation : In some areas, you may need permits to dock your boat, especially for long-term docking. Always have your boat’s registration and any required permits available.
Environmental Regulations : Florida has strict environmental regulations to protect its waterways. Be aware of and comply with any regulations related to waste disposal, fuel handling, and habitat protection.
Safety Requirements : This includes having the necessary safety equipment on board and ensuring your boat is in good condition to avoid oil leaks or other hazards.
Insurance : Many marinas and docking facilities require proof of insurance before allowing you to dock. Check the minimum coverage requirements with the facility.
Marina vs. Private Dock : Consider whether a marina (with additional amenities and services) or a private dock (which might offer more privacy and fewer restrictions) best suits your needs.
Location : Proximity to open water, protected areas, and your home are important. Also, consider the water depth and the ease of navigating to and from the dock.
Amenities and Services : Some docks and marinas offer electricity, water, fuel, maintenance services, and even social spaces. Consider what amenities are important to you.

If you’re docking in a residential area or within a homeowners’ association (HOA), be aware there may be additional rules and restrictions about boat size, types of boats allowed, and docking structures.

In many ways, Florida is the dream cruising destination. Warm weather year-round, tropical beaches, and lots of places to travel by boat. If you have the time to do it, the best way to find your perfect liveaboard slip is to travel the state and try different places out. Eventually, you’ll find the port of call that stands out to you, the one that you don’t really feel like leaving—the one that feels like home.

Where is the best place to live aboard a boat in Florida?

Finding the cheapest place to keep a boat in Florida can depend on several factors, including the type of storage you’re looking for (wet slip, dry storage, or on a trailer at a storage facility), the size of your boat, and the amenities you require. Generally, prices for boat storage will vary widely based on location, with areas that are more popular or upscale (like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or the Florida Keys) typically being more expensive than more rural or less tourist-centric locations. The best approach is to contact various marinas and storage facilities directly to inquire about their rates, making sure to ask about any discounts or promotions they might offer.

How much does it cost to keep a boat at a marina in Florida?

The cost to keep a boat at a marina in Florida can vary widely depending on several factors, including the marina’s location, the size of the boat, and the type of docking (wet slip vs. dry dock), along with the amenities and services provided by the marina. It’s crucial to contact marinas directly for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing based on your specific needs and to inquire about any available discounts or packages that may reduce the overall cost. Keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always meet your needs in terms of location, amenities, and services.

Where is the cheapest place to keep a boat in Florida?

Some of the more affordable areas to keep a boat in Florida include: Panama City: Known for its relatively low cost of living, Panama City offers several affordable marinas and boat storage options. Jacksonville: With its large number of marinas and boat storage facilities, Jacksonville is another cost-effective option for boat owners in Florida. Crystal River: Located on the Gulf Coast, Crystal River has several marinas that offer competitive rates for boat storage. Melbourne: On the Space Coast, Melbourne has a variety of marinas and boat storage facilities with reasonable prices. Fort Pierce: Located on the Treasure Coast, Fort Pierce offers affordable boat storage options, particularly for smaller boats. Keep in mind that rates can still vary significantly within these areas, so it’s essential to research specific marinas and storage facilities to find the best deal for your boat. Additionally, storing your boat in a less popular location or farther from the coast may result in lower costs but could be less convenient for regular use.

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

Yes, in many cases, you can live on your boat in a marina in Florida.

Matt has been boating around Florida for over 25 years in everything from small powerboats to large cruising catamarans. He currently lives aboard a 38-foot Cabo Rico sailboat with his wife Lucy and adventure dog Chelsea. Together, they cruise between winters in The Bahamas and summers in the Chesapeake Bay.

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8 New and Used Liveaboard Boat

Trader Sundeck

Naples, Florida (United States of America)

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Are you thinking about the LOOP or hitting the Bahamas? Well this is the perfect vessel for you! Discover the 1986 Marine Trader Sundeck Trawler, your gateway to timeless marit...

Palmetto, Florida (United States of America)

Classic Design, Motorsailer Comfort, Maintained and Updated, Ready to Sail! This 1990 Island Trader is located in Palmetto, Florida and has been updated by it's current owner. ...

Fort Lauderdale, Florida (United States of America)

YACHTS UNLIMITED

The Lagoon 560 gave Lagoon a strong lead in terms of comfort, ergonomics and style, combining the world-renowned talents of the architectural firm VPLP and the design consultants Nauta. The S2 v...

Catalina 320

Port Charlotte, Florida (United States of America)

Pier One Yacht Sales

The original 320 was introduced in 1993 with over 1,000 hulls built. The 320 incorporates contemporary styling, smart ergonomics and the latest convenience features along with ...

Jacksonville, Florida (United States of America)

Turn-key blue water cruising catamaran: 2020 Lagoon 42 owners version - Upgraded teak deck - Upgraded wood cockpit table - Full enclosure - Upgraded Onan 13.5 KW generator - Upgraded Yanm...

Sunseeker Manhattan 52

Fort Lauderdale , Florida (United States of America)

Rick Obey Yacht Sales

Winner of 2017 Motor Boat Awards ‘Flybridges up to 55ft’ category. Space, light and sociability define the Manhattan 52. Its innovative design is all about spacious living for...

Fort Lauderdale, FL, (United States of America)

The Multihull Company

LevioSail is the lowest-priced 2017 Lagoon. 42 in the market today. Among the many recent upgrades include: 57 HP Yanmar Engines Flexofold Propellers Full B&G Electronics Suite AIS Transceiv...

Cape Coral, FL, (United States of America)

"AQUAHOLIC", formerly "Knotty Dreamer", is a wonderful example of why the Lagoon 42 is one of the manufacturer's most sought-aftermodels. Known far and wide, the Lagoon 42 is a comfortable cat w...

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ABOUT LIVEABOARD BOAT IN FLORIDA

There are many manufacturers of liveaboard boats in Florida including Sea Ray, Starcraft and Axopar. They vary in size, ranging from compact 39 feet models all the way up to 56 feet, as well as in price from $81,907 for the most affordable models up to $1,827,145 for the largest or newest models with the latest equipment and technology. liveaboard boats are wonderfully versatile boats and great for enjoying full-time living on board, self-sufficient living and long distance cruising. At Rightboat you’ll find 9 used and 0 new liveaboard boats available in Florida, offering you a huge choice whatever your budget or specific requirements.

Liveaboard Marinas in Florida: A Comprehensive Guide

Florida is a popular destination for boating enthusiasts and liveaboard sailors. Known for its beautiful coastline and warm weather, the state offers a variety of marinas that cater to those who live on their boats.

Liveaboard marinas in Florida are a great option for those who want to experience the boating lifestyle full-time, or for those who want to escape the cold weather up north during the winter months.

Florida has a wide range of marinas that offer liveaboard options, from small, family-owned facilities to large, full-service marinas. Many of these marinas are located in popular boating destinations such as Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Key West.

Some marinas offer amenities such as swimming pools, laundry facilities, and on-site restaurants, while others offer a more laid-back, rustic experience. No matter what your preferences are, there is a liveaboard marina in Florida that will suit your needs.

Living on a boat is not for everyone, but for those who have a passion for boating and the open sea, it can be a dream come true. Whether you are a seasoned liveaboard sailor or just starting out, Florida’s liveaboard marinas offer a unique opportunity to experience the boating lifestyle in one of the most beautiful and vibrant states in the country.

Top Liveaboard Marinas in Florida

Florida is a popular destination for liveaboard marinas and with good reason. The state offers a wide variety of marinas with different amenities, security features, and pricing options. Here are some of the top liveaboard marinas in Florida:

Melbourne Harbor Marina

Melbourne Harbor Marina is located on the east coast of Florida and offers a variety of amenities, including electricity, cable television, and free Wi-Fi. The marina also has a fitness center, hot tub, and sauna. For those who enjoy fishing, the marina has a fishing dock and cleaning station. The marina is located near shops, grocery stores, and restaurants, making it convenient for residents.

The current cost of Liveaboard at Melbourne Harbor Marina is $150.00/month, in addition to the dockage price.

Marco Island Marina

Marco Island Marina is located on the west coast of Florida and is a popular destination for liveaboard marinas. The marina offers a variety of amenities, including a spa, pool, and fitness center. The marina also has a fueling station, a pump-out station, and bike rentals. The marina is located near shops, grocery stores, and restaurants, making it convenient for residents.

The current cost of Liveaboard at Marco Island Marina is $30.00/month, in addition, to slip leasing rates.

Twin Dolphin Marina

Twin Dolphin Marina is located on the west coast of Florida and offers a variety of amenities, including electricity, Wi-Fi, and cable television. The marina also has a pool, fitness center, and laundry facilities. The marina is located near shops, grocery stores, and restaurants, making it convenient for residents.

Pasadena Marina

Pasadena Marina is located on the west coast of Florida and offers a variety of amenities, including electricity, Wi-Fi, and cable television. The marina also has a pool, fitness center, and laundry facilities. The marina is located near shops, grocery stores, and restaurants, making it convenient for residents.

Bay Point Marina

Bay Point Marina is located on the west coast of Florida and offers a variety of amenities, including electricity, Wi-Fi, and cable television. The marina also has a pool, fitness center, and laundry facilities. The marina is located near shops, grocery stores, and restaurants, making it convenient for residents.

Hollywood Marina

Hollywood Marina is located on the east coast of Florida and offers a variety of amenities, including electricity, Wi-Fi, and cable television. The marina also has a pool, fitness center, and laundry facilities. The marina is located near shops, grocery stores, and restaurants, making it convenient for residents.

Green Cove Springs Marina

Green Cove Springs Marina is located on the east coast of Florida and offers a variety of amenities, including electricity, Wi-Fi, and cable television. The marina also has a pool, fitness center, and laundry facilities. The marina is located near shops, grocery stores, and restaurants, making it convenient for residents.

The current cost of Liveaboard at Green Cove Springs Marina is $45.00/boat, in addition to the dockage price.

Titusville Marina

Titusville Marina is located on the east coast of Florida and offers a variety of amenities, including electricity, Wi-Fi, and cable television. The marina also has a pool, fitness center, and laundry facilities. The marina is located near shops, grocery stores, and restaurants, making it convenient for residents.

Overall, these marinas offer a range of amenities and features to make living on a boat in Florida comfortable and convenient. From pools and fitness centers to shops and restaurants, these marinas have everything residents need to enjoy their time on the water. With safe waters and security gates, these marinas offer peace of mind for permanent residents and those just passing through.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Liveaboard Marina

When choosing a liveaboard marina, there are several factors to consider to ensure that the marina meets your needs and preferences. The following subsections provide some important factors to consider when choosing a liveaboard marina in Florida.

The location of the marina is an important factor to consider when choosing a liveaboard marina. Factors to consider include proximity to grocery stores, restaurants, and other amenities, as well as the proximity to the water. Central Florida is home to many live-aboard marinas that offer easy access to the ocean, rivers, and lakes.

Amenities are another important factor to consider when choosing a liveaboard marina. Look for marinas that offer a variety of amenities, such as swimming pools, spas, laundry facilities, and pet-friendly services. Some marinas also offer luxury amenities, such as floating docks and concierge services.

Security is an important consideration when choosing a liveaboard marina. Look for marinas that have good security measures in place, such as surveillance cameras, secure docks, and gated access. This is especially important during hurricane season and other severe weather conditions.

Budget is an important factor to consider when choosing a liveaboard marina. Look for marinas that offer reasonable rates and flexible lease options. Be sure to factor in additional costs, such as income tax and dock fees.

When choosing a liveaboard marina, it is also important to consider other factors such as weather conditions, storms, insects, and party culture. Additionally, look for marinas that offer reliable water and ice services, as well as good shower and drying facilities.

In summary, choosing the right liveaboard marina comes down to several factors, including location, amenities, security, and budget. By considering these factors, you can find a marina that meets your needs and preferences while providing a comfortable and enjoyable living experience.

Living on a Boat in Florida: What to Expect

Living on a boat in Florida can be an exciting and unique experience. However, it’s important to know what to expect before making the move. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Florida is known for its warm and sunny weather, which can be great for those who enjoy spending time outdoors. However, it’s important to note that Florida can also be very humid, especially during the summer months. This means that you may need to invest in a dehumidifier to keep your boat dry.

The costs of living on a boat in Florida can vary depending on the marina you choose. Some marinas charge a daily, weekly, or monthly fee for dockage, while others charge a liveaboard fee on top of the dockage fee. It’s important to do your research and find a marina that fits within your budget.

Florida is known for its party culture, especially in areas like Miami and Fort Lauderdale. However, if you’re looking for peace and quiet, there are also plenty of marinas that offer a more relaxed atmosphere. Additionally, many marinas offer amenities like laundry facilities and pet-friendly accommodations.

Maintenance

Living on a boat requires regular maintenance, including cleaning, repairs, and emergency repairs in case of storms or other unforeseen circumstances. It’s important to have a plan in place for these situations, and to be prepared for the costs associated with them.

Overall, living on a boat in Florida can be a unique and exciting experience, but it’s important to know what to expect before making the move. By doing your research and choosing a marina that fits your lifestyle and budget, you can enjoy all that Florida has to offer while living on the water.

About the author

I worked as an officer in the deck department on various types of vessels, including oil and chemical tankers, LPG carriers, and even reefer and TSHD in the early years. Currently employed as Marine Surveyor carrying cargo, draft, bunker, and warranty survey.

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The Perfect Spot for Liveaboards in the Florida Keys -->The Perfect Spot for Liveaboards in the Florida Keys

Liveaboards up to the sounds of waves gently lapping against your bedroom every morning or watching the dolphins play as you sip wine on your deck. It sounds like the perfect vacation getaway, but for people who live aboard their vessels, this is an everyday reality. Living aboard a sailboat, catamarans, houseboats, and other vessels can give you a whole new perspective on life. Liveaboards in the Florida Keys offer a fresh take on the tiny living lifestyle. Here, you can live boundlessly and take your home on the open seas. Finding the right marina for your liveaboard can make a world of difference in your experience, which is why Mangrove Marina works so hard to ensure our marina has everything you need during your time with us, including wet slips rental in Tavernier. Our resort-like amenities combine with a beautiful location, and once you settle in, you might not ever want to leave. Our marina is spacious, stretching out across 20 lush acres. We have more than 100 wet slips designed for both transient and liveaboard boaters. Each wet slip is spacious and built to accommodate boats up to 70-feet long with 24-foot beams and 5-feet of draft. When you step off your deck and onto our fixed cement fingers and walkways, you will be ready to discover everything our marina has to offer, including breathtaking views and a laid-back atmosphere. Along with all the routine amenities marinas typically have to offer, including power, water, and pump-out services, Mangrove Marina also offers:

Barbecue facilities
WiFi and cable
Bathhouses with showering facilities
Laundry facilities
Heated freshwater pool
Bicycle racks

Also on our site is the always lively and ready to entertain Fin & Juice Bar, where you and your family can grab fun drinks, enjoy some great food, and listen to live music in a laid-back, classic Florida Keys setting. Our full-service marina in Tavernier is aptly named. Nestled in the middle of hearty mangroves, Mangrove Marina is sheltered by the hurricane hole effect, shielding your liveaboards in the Florida Keys from storms, high winds, and surges. In severe storms, you can protect your boats using our dry storage. Along with dry storage, we offer the full complement of essential maintenance services, including:

Powerwashing
Electrical work
Top and bottom painting
Marine system repairs
Fiberglass and canvas repairs
Engine work

Our full-service marina in Tavernier offers everything you need to maintain your vessel on-site and offer haul-out services. You don’t have to feel anchored to our marina during your time here. Launch off into Tavernier to explore everything our area has to offer, including shopping, kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, the Wild Bird Sanctuary, Old Settlers Park, and plenty of restaurants, sightseeing, and fishing to fill your days and evenings. Mangrove Marina is located between markers 62 and 65 on the ICW if you are accessing from the water and in Tavernier, Fla., just off Mile Marker 91.7 from land. Contact us today to learn more about our wet slips rental in Tavernier or to plan your visit.

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200 Florida Ave. Tavernier, Florida 33070 305.852.8380

Located at Mile Marker 91.7 on the Bayside (25’ 00.681 N) (080’ 31.110 W) Between Marker 62 and 65 on the ICW

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5 Best Places to Live Aboard a Boat in the U.S.

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It’s hard to say how many Americans live aboard boats , or where most of those boats are docked and used, but it’s easy to see that the number has been steadily increasing for at least the past few decades.

With home prices soaring, living aboard becomes the more economic choice. That said, more people may embrace living on a boat in the years to come. Whether that’s you now or you in ten years from now, you’ll need to know the best places to live aboard a boat.

Generally speaking, the best places to live aboard are locations where the weather is warm near or all year-round, where marinas and day-trip destinations abound, and where shore services are available for things like provisioning and marine repairs.

With all of that in mind, here’s a look at the five best places to live aboard a boat in the U.S.

Southeast Florida
Southwest Florida
Southern California
The Carolinas

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1. Southeast Florida

Best Places to Live Aboard a Boat. Miami, Florida.

There’s a reason Florida is called “The Sunshine State,” it gets about 230 days a year of sunshine, compared to the national average of 205. And, temperatures here rarely dip much below 55 or 60 degrees.

So living on a boat in Southeast Florida means you’ll be living in a near year-round tropical paradise. Sounds like a dream, right?

Boaters abound here, especially in the area in and around Fort Lauderdale, which is nicknamed “The Yachting Capital of the World.” Marinas and shipyards are everywhere, which means services of every kind that a liveaboard boater might need.

And since superyachts tend to ply these waters, there’s serious provisioning options—the kind that crew use on the bigger boats. This part of Florida is also a great jumping-off point for long-weekend cruises to the Florida Keys or the Bahamas , giving liveaboard boaters lots of options for getting away once in a while .

Find boats & on-water experiences in South Florida

2. Southwest Florida

Best Places to Live Aboard a Boat. Southwest Florida

If you decide to live aboard in this part of Florida, you’ll see far fewer superyachts. Southwest Florida is also well-known for boating, especially in the areas in and around Sanibel Island and Captiva islands. Liveaboard boaters in Southwest Florida typically describe a quieter pace of life, with fewer attractions that serve as tourist magnets.

Long-weekend trips can include a jaunt up the coast to Tampa and St. Petersburg area, or down the coast to Naples or Marco Island for cruising on Barfield Bay or dock ‘n’ dining at one of Collier Bay’s incredible waterfront restaurants.

Pro tip : Moving on a boat will be a change in lifestyle. Before making any decisions, here are a few items to consider first .

3. Southern California

Best Places to Live Aboard a Boat. Catalina Island, California

San Diego, known as “America’s Finest City,” actually has more sunny days each year, on average, than Florida, with temperatures that rarely drop below 50 degrees. It’s an excellent place for sportsmen and women to get on the water for some thrilling action.

Also, a great place for liveaboard boaters to putter around in San Diego Bay on day trips, as well as destinations farther apart along the coast to the north.

Catalina Island is also a popular spot for liveaboard boaters who want to enjoy a weekend getaway from the mainland . This island is less than 90 miles from San Diego, and it’s considered a great destination all year long for scuba diving, ziplining, shopping or relaxing on the beach.

Find boats & on-water experiences in South California

4. The Carolinas

Best Places to Live Aboard a Boat-Myrtle-Beach, SC

From Albemarle Sound and Pamlico Sound in North Carolina to the city of Charleston in South Carolina, the part of the east coast that the Carolinas comprise has quite a lot to like for liveaboard boaters.

Compared to Florida, the Carolina coastline sees fewer hurricanes, and the cost of living is typically lower—including boat insurance, which has spiked in Florida in recent years. There are lots of things to see and do in this region, including award-winning golf courses and historical tours of cities.

The marinas continue to expand to include luxury essentials as an increasing number of snowbirds decide to stop over here during spring and fall migrations. For liveaboard boaters who want to venture up the mid-Atlantic toward New England in the summertime, the Carolinas are an easy place to start the journey.

Find boats & on-water experience in The Carolinas

5. Texas

Best Places to Live Aboard a Boat. Texas, U.S.

The Texas coastline , running along the Gulf of Mexico, has been a favorite spot for liveaboard boaters for years. Costs here can be lower than in more boating-dense states such as Florida, and the region from Corpus Christie down to South Padre Island has a fair number of marinas that allow people to live aboard a boat.

The weather swings can be more extreme here from season to season than they are in Florida or Southern California, with hotter summers and colder winters, but generally speaking—especially aboard a boat with heat and air conditioning—this coastline can be a great place to call home.

Find boats & on-water experiences in Texas

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Boatsetter is the go-to app for boat rentals and on-water experiences. Whatever the adventure, we’ve got a boat for that—Set sail , start the party , go yachting , make your trophy catch , and hone your watersports skills! Download the Boatsetter app ( App Store | Google Play ). Make sure to follow @boatsetter on Instagram, and tag us in all your boat day pictures for the chance to be featured.

Kim Kavin has been on boats in more than 50 countries and islands, including in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, South Pacific, Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia. She grew up learning to steer a ski boat and Hobie Holder at her grandfather’s lake house in New Jersey, and went on to spend time aboard everything from America’s Cup racing sailboats to submarines.

Kim is a PADI-certified scuba diver and animal lover who always enjoys a good, long look around a coral reef. Her award-winning writing and editing regularly appears in national marine magazines and on leading websites. In her early years, she was a Dow Jones editing intern and a graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Journalism. When she’s not writing, Kim can usually be found hiking northwest New Jersey’s beautiful park trails with her adopted shelter mutt, Ginger.

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Live Aboard Boats for sale in Stuart, Florida

2006 Dakota 360SF Center Console

Stuart, Florida

Make Dakota

Model 360SF Center Console

Category Center Consoles

Posted 1 Month Ago

SINGLE owner - this seller ordered this boat right from the factory in Stuart, FL. The seller had the entire hull painted with awl grip paint and added new canvas on cushions a few years ago. The seller keeps her on a lift undercover and the seller tells us he has kept up with all necessary maintenance. Please note that this Seller will NOT agree to a haul-out and lengthy marina inspection. He is happy to take the buyer on a water trial and have the buyer bring an inspector to inspect the boat and engines on his lift (and they can bring a little boat around the lift to check the entire hull if they want). The hull is Kevlar and fiberglass and very solid. The boat will need new electronics. Stock #358234 Super go-fast fishing machine ready to head to the Bahamas! This 2006 Dakota 360SF Center Console is a mean fishing machine. No stone was left unturned in designing and developing this beautiful Dakota. With the innovative, specifically-designed hull and top-quality E-TEC engines, the Dakota is by far the very best in fast fishing boats. It's not often you find a true center console fishing boat that also has a cuddy - plenty of room for a couple and 2 kids. And there is also a head with a handheld shower and sink under the console. Just ask any professional angler, and they will tell you that having a fast fishing boat DOES matter. While the top speed doesn't affect the quality of your fishing, the faster the fishing boat, the faster you get to your favorite fishing spot! Which gives you more time with lines in the water, and not to mention more time fishing and ultimately MORE fish! And this boat is meant to go fast and go fishing! Lots of rod holders, outriggers and the back seat comes off to allow for even MORE rod holders. Huge fish boxes with a live bait well and sink at the back of the boat where all the action happens. Bring all your friends aboard, there is a lot of seating and plenty of deck space on the bow for sunbathing. She runs like a dream and smooth as silk - you won't spill a drop of your drink doing 50 MPH. Consumption: 16 to 20 gallons per hour at 30 MPH and 24 gallons per hour at 40 MPH. Powered by triple 250 Evinrudes. Any concerns regarding the Evinrude engines, please know that Envinrude states that "We are proud to have supplied you with outboard engines over the past 110 years. For business reasons, we have made the difficult decision to discontinue manufacturing of our outboard engines to focus on the next generation of propulsion. We know you probably have questions about how this decision will impact where to go for services, parts availability and whether your current warranty coverage or service contract are affected. Rest assured, our teams and dealer network will continue to be there to support you." https://www.evinrude.com/en-US/our-evinrude-customers.html Reason for selling is not using anymore.

1986 Gulfstar Motor Yacht

Make Gulfstar

Model Motor Yacht

Category Cuddy Cabin Boats

Posted Over 1 Month

1986 Gulfstar Motor Yacht Looking for a great cruising or live aboard then this Gulfstar is a must see motor yacht . She has been in the family for over 20 years and now it is time for new owners.

1979 Hughes H40

Make Hughes

Category Cruiser Boats

1979 Hughes H40 Recently renovated for full time off the grid living, we are pleased to present this well-built, well-equipped yacht ready to go to anywhere in the world! This Sparkman & Stevens design came from the Hughes yard in Canada at a time when sailing yachts were more ruggedly built than today but up-graded with today's best features: Standing Rigging 1X19 316 SS Wire New 2014 Electro Polished 316 SS Chain Plates New 2014 Mast completely rewired - 2014 with LED Mast Head and Anchor Lights Furlex 304s Headsail Furler MK 4 generation New 2015 Furling Main with new 2012 Mack Main Sail 2 X 275W Solar Panels on Arch New 2015 28 Samsung Wireless Smart TV with DVD player New 2015 The list goes on! Virtually everything needed to live aboard for extended cruising. With her sea-kindly nature and roomy cabin, Tallulah is attractively priced and ready to go sailing!

2016 Robalo 246 Cayman

Make Robalo

Model 246 Cayman

Category Bay Boats

2016 Robalo 246 Cayman Designed to take inshore/offshore fishing capabilities to another level, the 246's Extended V-Plane hull design can easily navigate both shallow water fishing holes and big water destinations. Simply stated, wherever they're biting, the 246 can speed you there. The boat's wide deck layout combined with excess hull flare, delivers more fishing space, stability and a dryer ride than rivals. The 246 simply won't back down no matter what Mother Nature dishes out. Robalo leaves no detail uncovered. Innovative hideaway seating says welcome aboard then converts to the ultimate fishing machine with huge casting decks forward and aft. Lockable rod storage and live bait well capacity is best in class. Designed for comfortable extended outings, the 246 features a forward entry privacy head and wrap around bow seating. The best helm design in this size range features Yamaha digital gauges with plenty of room for advanced electronics. A complete array of stainless steel hardware is a cut above. The 246 is equally impressive under the gelcoat with Kevlar reinforcement, rot free construction and a poured composite transom.

1987 Morgan 44 Just Repowered

Make Morgan

Model 44 Just Repowered

1987 Morgan 44 Just Repowered With upgrades and changes complete, Blown Away, now is back on the market! Owners are looking for offers so this is the best time to check her out. She's a well equipped cruising sloop that has carried her knowledgeable and experienced owners on many memorable passages.Rebuilt Yanmar 4JHE diesel with 1 hour!Roomy two-cabin, two-head lay-out with center-line queen berth in master suiteSpacious U-shaped galley with ample storageCustom sugar-scoop stern for easy boarding10' AB rigid inflatable tender with 15HP Honda 4-strokeBlister-free bottom with fresh paint July 20168KW Westerbeke generatorCustom stainless steel fuel tanks This is a comfortable and popular design and a spacious live aboard yacht. She is a solid cruiser ready for her next adventure! She is close by our office and ready for your exclusive showing.

1990 Luhrs 3400 Motor Yacht

Model 3400 Motor Yacht

Category Convertible Boats

1990 Luhrs 3400 Motor Yacht We are pleased to offer this 1990 Luhrs 3400 Motor Yacht.Great boat for the moneyMakes great live aboard97 hours on starboard hour meter/112 hours on port hour meter since current owner has had boat last 8 yearsRare walkdown staircase from the flybridge to the foredeck makes it easy to handle aloneShe features a large flybridge with plenty of seating.Wet bar, and additional room for deck chairs or cushions in the aft bridge area Give us a call for your exclusive showing.

1987 Morgan 44 Back on the Market!

Model 44 Back On The Market!

1987 Morgan 44 Back on the Market! Come see Blown Away, now that she is back on the market. Several upgrades and changes. Owner is looking for offers. Now is the best time to check her out. A well equipped cruising sloop, Blown Away has carried her knowledgeable and experienced owners on many memorable passages.Rebuilt Yanmar 4JHE diesel with 1 hour!Roomy two-cabin, two-head lay-out with center-line queen berth in master suiteSpacious U-shaped galley with ample storageCustom sugar-scoop stern for easy boarding10' AB rigid inflatable tender with 15HP Honda 4-strokeBlister-free bottom with fresh paint July 20168KW Westerbeke generatorCustom stainless steel fuel tanks This is a comfortable and popular design and a spacious live aboard yacht. She is a solid cruiser ready for her next adventure! She is close by our office and ready for your exclusive showing.

1983 Californian Motor Yacht w/ Twin 3208's

Make Californian

Model Motor Yacht W/ Twin 3208's

1983 Californian Motor Yacht w/ Twin 3208's We are pleased to present this 38' California with one of the largest interiors of any 38' vessel on the market. She is well equipped with Twin 3208 Fresh Water Cooled Turbo Cats and a 7.5 KW Onan Generator with a Sound Shield. Three reverse cycle air conditionersTwo staterooms , large, cool and comfortable. Large flybridge and aft deck with custom hard tops. She is all ready to do The Great Loop! A Great Live Aboard or Party Boat!

2001 Voyage Yachts 440

Make Voyage Yachts

2001 Voyage Yachts 440 We are pleased to present this 2001 Voyage Yachts 440. This Vessel has had over $100,000 in upgrades in the past few years. She also has just return from sailing around the Caribbean.4 queen cabin and 4 heads provide ample room for family and guests.Spell Bound is rigged for self-sufficient, live aboard for cruising in far out places.She has comfortable and spacious accommodations and modified salon and, very good sailing performance, a good selection of sails in very nice shape.Her New wind generator, new Next Gen generator, and solar panels can run the new updated electronics and water makers while sailing you anywhere in the world you would like to go. Give us a call for your exclusive showing.

1975 Hatteras Convertible

Make Hatteras

Model Convertible

1975 Hatteras Convertible Hugh Price Drop. Down another $7,500 Owner is looking for Offers She is Powered with Twin Detroit Diesel 12V71 engines. Port engine was overhauled in 2008. Owner is there several days a week making sure she remains in great shape for her age. Three Staterooms, Three Heads Hatteras has built a reputation for bulletproof construction. The hulls bottom is solid fiberglass, no absorbent foam core to be found. Hatteras looks at boat building as an art, doing it better and building it stronger. The Hatteras legend began at Cape Hatteras where winds can blow almost as fiercely as hurricanes and the Diamond Shoals are home to some of the most turbulent and untamed waters in the Atlantic. Hatteras accomplished their goal to build a boat that would handle these waters and yet be friendly to the hard core fisherman. Hatteras boats are a legend, become a part of that legend. You owe it to your family and friends to enjoy the renowned Hatteras ride in comfort and style. The MEDITATION is a 53 Hatteras that is a proven fish raiser. She has fished many tournaments from New York to Florida. This Three Stateroom, three Head model is Galley up. There is a large Salon with convertible sofa making it easy and comfortable to sleep eight people. The Cockpit is a large 145 Square foot with 130 pound class Fighting Chair. She has Rupp outriggers, Tackle Locker, Bait prep area, Saltwater washdown and all of the right feathers to Fish, Cruise, or live aboard. Come and take a look if she meets your requirements!

1973 Hinckley Custom

Make Hinckley

Model Custom

Category Sailboats

1973 Hinckley Custom Manatee Pocket Yacht Sales is pleased to offer this remarkable one-of-a-kind yacht, designed by Henry Hinckley himself. Originally launched in 1973, she completed a circumnavigation in the mid-90s, then underwent a nearly complete re-fit. Recent replacements and up-grades include:Electric winchesLike new North Sails with Mack Stack PackNavTec hydraulic vang re-built '14Plumbing and electrical systems replaced since '02Ford Lehman 135 HP diesel with 2,000 hours since re-build '93 Her appointments below deck are stunning. If you're looking for the perfect live-aboard yacht in excellent condition, you owe it to yourself to see Nirvana!

carver 28 aft cabin

great live aboard ac 6.5 gen sleeps 6 call for more info 772 485 4755

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Enjoy a private custom Dive Charter with just you, your party, the Captain, and/or one other crew member in Key West, Florida! Dive, relax, and explore the stunning underwater world.

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See Mark Zuckerberg’s glossy new $300M, 287-foot superyacht ‘Launchpad’

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All aboard S.S. Facebook.

Mark Zuckerberg has reportedly gifted himself a $300 million megayacht, dubbed “Launchpad,” ahead of his 40th birthday.

The staggering 387-foot-long vessel was seen floating at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., after arriving at its berth earlier this week, The Sun reported Thursday.

The multi-layered luxury ship’s sleek exterior was designed by Espen Øino International and boasts a steel hull and an aluminum superstructure, according to SuperYacht Times.

Reportedly ranking as the 45th largest yacht in the world, the interiors are just as aesthetically pleasing and reportedly executed by Zuretti Interior Design company, a France-based company specializing in unique and custom yacht design.

The breathtakingly beautiful floater stands out with a navy blue theme matching an American flag perched proudly on its wood-paneled stern.

The Launchpad yacht in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

There are several outdoor areas where the social media maven will be able to relax with his family and the indoor levels feature glass paneling allowing for tons of natural light.

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There also appears to be a helipad perfect for whenever the Facebook co-founder wants to travel to his vessel by air.

The Feadship-built yacht, built in 2022, can comfortably fit 24 guests aboard, requires a crew of 48, and is said to cost $30 million a year for upkeep and usage, according to Superyachtfan.com .

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Want celebrity news as it breaks? Hooked on Housewives?

Boatworld insiders have been buzzing with speculation that Zuckerberg is the owner of the newly minted mega-cruise ever since it made its main voyage from the Netherlands last week.

The tech titan was spotted touring the Russian-commissioned megayacht in early March, though the impressive boat didn’t arrive stateside until this week due to sanctions, according to The Sun.

The website reported that Zuckerberg purchased the pricey yacht – along with its own $30 million partner boat — most likely as an early 40th birthday present to himself.

The boat reportedly traveled to Florida after being granted special permission to be imported just weeks ahead of Zuckerberg’s birthday on May 14.

Zuckerberg’s yacht is just 30 feet shorter than the length of fellow billionaire Jeff Bezos’ 417-foot megayacht Koru, which the Amazon boss snagged for a whopping $500 million.

Zuckerberg’s rep did not immediately respond to Page Six’s request for comment.

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SpaceX launches another batch of Starlink satellites from Florida coast

A rip current statement in effect for coastal flagler region, ‘human smuggling operation:’ florida officers intercept boat with haitian immigrants near sebastian inlet, 5 of the immigrants were children, fwc says.

Brenda Argueta , Digital Journalist

BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. – A vessel with 25 Haitian immigrants was stopped by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers near Sebastian Inlet, according to a release.

The FWC said two officers were conducting a patrol around 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 29 near Sebastian Inlet when they stopped a 42-foot vessel.

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Brenda argueta.

Brenda Argueta is a digital journalist who joined ClickOrlando.com in March 2021. She is the author of the Central Florida Happenings newsletter that goes out every Thursday.

Take a look inside this Miami-based research boat that studies Florida’s overheated corals

W hile you might first notice the glossy super yachts or a fishing trawler on the Miami River, there’s also an 80-foot vessel packed not with partiers, but scientists, trying to protect the coral offshore.

Bridget Coughlin, the CEO of the Chicago-based Shedd Aquarium, said their research vessel named the Coral Reef II is docked in Miami because of the diversity of marine life in the area.

Look inside the Coral Reef II

“We teach climate change through empathy with animals,” said Coughlin. “If you talk about how otters are starving, that empathy for that otter is going to catalyze you to act.”

The vessel can go out to sea for three weeks at a time and can travel as far south as the Dominican Republic. The researchers study a plethora of animals including queen conch, endangered rock iguanas, sharks and climate change’s impact on the coral reef. From March through October, the crew often works days that stretch from 7 a.m. to midnight.

How to come aboard the research vessel

The Coral Reef II also acts as a live-in laboratory for aspiring marine biologists. High school and college students can go on a weeks-long journey that includes snorkeling in crystal-clear water with Caribbean reef sharks and working side-by-side with scientists. Chuck Knapp, a 30-year employee of Shedd and the head of conservation on the vessel, said he got his start that way.

“I was originally a high school marine biology student back on the boat as a 17-year-old in the late ‘80s so it’s been a thrill of a lifetime to come back,” Knapp, who gave a tour of the vessel in the video said.

This summer, high schoolers will be taking a trip to the Bahamas to learn about how to protect dolphins, snorkel shipwrecks and observe firsthand from Shedd’s shark research biologist.

Conducting research on coral reefs bleaching

One of the most unique parts of the vessel is its live well system, which consists of large built-in tanks at the front of the boat filled with seawater. These mini aquariums are a safe harbor for wildlife that scientists are trying to study or move. The live well system makes it easy to scoop marine life like coral up, perform heat stress tests and return them back to sea in hours.

Ross Cunning, a coral biologist with Shedd, said researchers can use technology onboard to test how well the coral absorbs sunlight and observe what temperature and speed cause corals to bleach. Even two corals of the same species might bleach at different speeds, and they’re looking for the most heat tolerant coral, Cunning said.

Last summer he worked alongside South Florida research groups, like the University of Miami, the Coral Restoration Foundation, and Reef Renewal to test snippets of these baby corals in nurseries that have been growing in higher water temperatures.

“Finding interventions to boost the heat tolerance in coral reefs is more important than ever,” Cunning said. “But the most critical thing we need to do is stop climate change. All the research in the world will not boost coral heat tolerance enough to cope with oceans that continue warming. We must stop the root of the problem and stop greenhouse gas emissions as quickly as possible.”

Ashley Miznazi is a climate change reporter for the Miami Herald funded by the Lynn and Louis Wolfson II Family Foundation in partnership with Journalism Funding Partners.

Bird sits on top of the Coral Reef II docked at the Miami River on March 13, 2024.

Florida News | Go inside research boat that studies…

Breaking News

Florida news | ‘frozen in time’: vice president harris reacts to viewing site of stoneman douglas shooting, florida news, florida news | go inside research boat that studies florida’s overheated corals.

The Coral Reef II is docked in Miami on March 13, 2024. The research team left that morning for Key Largo.(Tampa Bay Times)

While you might first notice the glossy super yachts or a fishing trawler on the Miami River, there’s also an 80-foot vessel packed not with partiers, but scientists, trying to protect the coral offshore.

Bridget Coughlin, the CEO of the Chicago-based Shedd Aquarium, said their research vessel named the Coral Reef II is docked in Miami because of the diversity of marine life in the area.

“We teach climate change through empathy with animals,” said Coughlin. “If you talk about how otters are starving, that empathy for that otter is going to catalyze you to act.”

How to come aboard the research vessel

Rep. Carolina Amesty notarized document that teacher says he never signed

This summer, high schoolers will be taking a trip to the Bahamas to learn about how to protect dolphins, snorkel shipwrecks and observe firsthand from Shedd’s shark research biologist.

Conducting research on coral reefs bleaching

One of the most unique parts of the vessel is its live well system, which consists of large built-in tanks at the front of the boat filled with seawater.

These mini aquariums are a safe harbor for wildlife that scientists are trying to study or move. The live well system makes it easy to scoop marine life like coral up, perform heat stress tests and return them back to sea in hours.

Ross Cunning, a coral biologist with Shedd, said researchers can use technology onboard to test how well the coral absorbs sunlight and observe what temperature and speed cause corals to bleach.

Mark Schick, the senior director of animal operations on the Coral Reef II research vessel owned by Shedd aquarium, dumps water overboard. (Tampa Bay Times)

Even two corals of the same species might bleach at different speeds, and they’re looking for the most heat tolerant coral, Cunning said.

“Finding interventions to boost the heat tolerance in coral reefs is more important than ever,” Cunning said. “But the most critical thing we need to do is stop climate change.

“All the research in the world will not boost coral heat tolerance enough to cope with oceans that continue warming. We must stop the root of the problem and stop greenhouse gas emissions as quickly as possible.”

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Florida jobless rate unchanged at 3.1% in February, metro Orlando up slightly

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Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a package of bills Thursday that supporters say will help improve access to health care, boost the number of doctors in Florida and address issues such as mental-health treatment.

Politics | DeSantis signs Live Healthy bills meant to train, retain health-care workers

24 Cuban migrants arrive in Florida Keys

FLORIDA KEYS, Fla. (WSVN) — A group of migrants arrived in South Florida.

According to U.S Border patrol agents, 24 migrants from Cuba arrived in the Florida Keys aboard a homemade vessel, Monday evening.

The migrants said they were at sea for two days prior to their arrival.

Agents said they will all be processed for removal proceedings.

DeSantis signs bills that he says will keep immigrants living in the US illegally from Florida
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COMMENTS

Used Live Aboard Yachts For Sale
We feature more than 1,000 listings at any given time. You can always find a huge selection of live aboard yachts for sale in Florida. These live aboard yachts are made by a number of top brands, including Hatteras, Viking, Sea Ray, Tiara, Sunseeker, Kadey-Krogen, and more. Our inventory also represents a variety of dimensions, ages, amenities ...
The Best Liveaboard Marinas in Florida (3 Budgets)
If you plan to keep your boat in a marina in Florida, find out the different slip rates for each marina from this article. Panama City Marina. If you are looking for a live-aboard marina on the Gulf Coast, the Panama City Marina is a great option. The marina has 125 slips, with rates starting at $12 per foot per month.
9 Best Liveaboard Marinas in Florida (2023); Prices, Security, and
Florida is a wonderful place to live. It's warm year-round, with plenty of boats, good swimming areas, theme parks, and in-town events around every corner. Because most of the state is surrounded by water, there are plenty of places to liveaboard. This is where I started my sailing career, and I can definitely recommend parking your boat here.
Living on Your Boat in Florida: What You Need to Know To Liveaboard
Living on a boat in Florida is cost-effective and offers boaters freedom, flexibility, stress-free living, a sense of community, and a connection to nature. One of the most important factors to consider when deciding to live on a boat in Florida is the marina. There are many marinas throughout the state that offer different amenities and services.
Living on a Boat in Florida
Many marinas charge a transitory fee on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis, with discounts for longer stays. Annual slip holders, on the other hand, benefit from the best rates. In Florida, monthly slips for a 40-foot sailboat can cost anything from $800 to well over $2,000 per month.
Best Liveaboard Marinas in Florida: 15 Top Picks for Boaters
Ortega River Marina. source. Ortega River Marina is located in Jacksonville, Florida, and offers liveaboards access to a pool, private bathrooms, washers and dryers, a waterfront grill and picnic area, and complimentary bikes. They charge $18 per foot per month plus $40 for 30 Amp service or $65 for 50 Amp service.
The Best Liveaboard Marinas In Florida
Here are some of the best liveaboard marinas in Florida sorted by location. Hopefully, at least one or more of them will be what you are looking for. The marinas are listed first by location and then by the quality. The higher up the list the marina is the better it is, not the more expensive it is.
How To Live on a Boat in Florida: Laws, Liveaboard, and Houseboats!
The boat. A marina slip or a boat slip is like a parking space for your boat, that is, the place where your boat will be anchored. A monthly slip for a 40-foot (12-meter) boat can cost between $800 and $2000, depending on the location. The price of the slip depends on the location - the more popular your area is, the more it's going to cost.
The Best and Cheapest Florida Liveaboard Marinas [LIST]
Liveaboard policies: If you intend to live aboard your boat, verify the marina's liveaboard policies and availability of long-term slips. Community: Consider the marina's community and whether it aligns with your lifestyle. Some marinas cater to specific interests like fishing, sailing, or social activities.
Liveaboard Boats for sale in Florida
There are many manufacturers of liveaboard boats in Florida including Sea Ray, Starcraft and Axopar. They vary in size, ranging from compact 39 feet models all the way up to 56 feet, as well as in price from $82,027 for the most affordable models up to $1,829,828 for the largest or newest models with the latest equipment and technology.
Liveaboard Marinas In Florida: A Comprehensive Guide
The marina also has a pool, fitness center, and laundry facilities. The marina is located near shops, grocery stores, and restaurants, making it convenient for residents. The current cost of Liveaboard at Green Cove Springs Marina is $45.00/boat, in addition to the dockage price.
Where Can You Live on a Boat in Florida: Top Locations to Consider
The Florida Keys, Key West in particular, is a popular location for boaters to live full-time. The Miami and Fort Lauderdale areas are also popular places in Florida where you can live on your boat. One of the most popular areas for live aboard boaters Florida is the Florida Keys. With its crystal-clear waters and laid-back island lifestyle ...
Great Harbour Trawlers: America's go-anyhere liveaboards
Call or write Sales Director Eric Kraft to set it up, 352-538-4843, [email protected]. TT35 Lake Day. Watch on. Great Harbour Builds the World's Most Versatile Liveaboard Cruisers, Designed To Go Off the Grid; Stable and Unsinkable Too. Handcrafted by Mirage Manufacturing in Gainesville, Florida, Great Harbour Trawlers are designed ...
The Live-Aboard Life: Best Liveaboard Yachts
Best Live Aboard Sailboats Brands. Catalina Yachts (the Cataline 30 is the most popular) Beneteau Boats. Pearson Sailboats. Islander 36 / I36 Boat Models. Leopard. Manta. Fountaine Pajot. Nautitech.
Live Aboard Boats for sale in Clearwater, Florida
1999 Catamaran Berkstresser Boats 60 A 60 foot world cruiser, live aboard and term charter sailing catamaran that is fast, long, light, comfortable, efficient and easy to sail (single hand). Low maintenance design provides a safe and unsinkable vessel. Many windows, ports and hatches provide a lite, open and airy interior.
The Perfect Spot for Liveaboards in the Florida Keys
Our full-service marina in Tavernier is aptly named. Nestled in the middle of hearty mangroves, Mangrove Marina is sheltered by the hurricane hole effect, shielding your liveaboards in the Florida Keys from storms, high winds, and surges. In severe storms, you can protect your boats using our dry storage. Along with dry storage, we offer the ...
5 Best Places to Live Aboard a Boat in the U.S.
Find boats & on-water experiences in South Florida. 2. Southwest Florida. If you decide to live aboard in this part of Florida, you'll see far fewer superyachts. Southwest Florida is also well-known for boating, especially in the areas in and around Sanibel Island and Captiva islands. Liveaboard boaters in Southwest Florida typically describe ...
House boats for sale in Florida
Find House boats for sale in Florida. Offering the best selection of boats to choose from.
Boats for sale in Florida
Motorized yachts are more common than sailing boats in Florida with 13,660 powerboats listed for sale right now, versus 638 listings for sailboats. Yacht prices in Florida Prices for yachts in Florida start at $1,499 for the lowest priced boats, up to $12,008,816 for the most luxurious, opulent superyachts and megayachts, with an average ...
Live Aboard Boats for sale in Palmetto, Florida
2000 silverton 322 motor yacht pride of ownership shows turn-key clean $10,000 in upgrades 2016 2 new a/c units new refrigerator new generator inverter new icemaker all new batteries molded stairs no ladders to climb spacious lots of storage 64 headroom sleeps 6 with two state rooms ready to move-in for the weekend long vacation or live-aboard turn-key call for a private showing
Live Aboard Boats for sale in Stuart, Florida
Live Aboard Boats for sale in Stuart, Florida. 1-12 of 12. Alert for new Listings. Sort By. 2006 Dakota 360SF Center Console. $74,500 . Stuart, Florida. Year 2006 . Make Dakota. Model 360SF Center Console. Category Center Consoles . Length 36 ...
Live Aboard Boat Rentals in FL
Multiple Day & Overnight Private Boat Charters in Florida Keys. Experience the ultimate aquatic adventure with Adventure Watersports Charters' liveaboard dive, fishing, and snorkel trips in Dry Tortugas, Marquesas Keys, and Key West. Book now for an unforgettable journey! From $5,400. Up to 4 Days.
See Mark Zuckerberg's new $300M, 287-foot superyacht 'Launchpad'
The Feadship-built yacht, built in 2022, can comfortably fit 24 guests aboard, requires a crew of 48, and is said to cost $30 million a year for upkeep and usage, according to Superyachtfan.com. 13
'Human smuggling operation:' Florida officers intercept boat with
"Immediately upon stopping the vessel, the officers knew they had intercepted a human smuggling operation. The operator of the vessel was armed and onboard; lying prone on the deck of the boat ...
Take a look inside this Miami-based research boat that studies Florida
While you might first notice the glossy super yachts or a fishing trawler on the Miami River, there's also an 80-foot vessel packed not with partiers, but scientists, trying to protect the coral ...
Boats for sale in Key west
Motorized yachts are more common than sailboats in Key West with 25 powerboats listed for sale right now, versus 10 listings for sailboats. Yacht prices in Key West. Prices for yachts in Key West start at $17,500 for the lowest priced boats, up to $1,650,000 for the most expensive listings, with an average overall yacht value of $305,000.
Palm Beach Boat Show 2024 yachts for sale
The "Rearden Steel" custom built by the renowned Dutch shipyard Moonen, is a 121ft tri-deck super-yacht, which will be up for sale during the Palm Beach International Boat Show, March 21-24, 2024 ...
2 Holland America Line crew members on Florida-bound ship killed in
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Two Holland America Line crew members were killed in an "onboard incident" on Friday," according to the cruise line.
Go inside research boat that studies Florida's overheated corals
How to come aboard the research vessel. The Coral Reef II also acts as a live-in laboratory for aspiring marine biologists. High school and college students can go on a weeks-long journey that ...
US Border Patrol intercepts 24 Cuban migrants in Florida Keys
FLORIDA KEYS, Fla. (WSVN) — A new group of migrants stopped in South Florida. According to U.S Border patrol agents, 24 migrants from Cuba, arrived in the Florida Keys aboard a homemade boat ...

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The Best Liveaboard Marinas in Florida (3 Budgets)

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Pensacola Shipyard

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Bayou Grande Marina

Shalimar Yacht Basin

Destin Harbor Boardwalk

Fort Walton Beach Landing

Niceville Yacht Club

Bay Point Marina

Legendary Marina

Sandestin Marina

Green Cove Springs Marina

Marinas at Jacksonville

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Ortega Villa Yacht Club Marina

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Sanford Boat Works and Marina

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Crandon Marina

Marinas in Key West

Opal Key Resort and Marina

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Key West Bight Marina

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Lauderdale Marine Center

Cooley's Landing Marina

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Burnt Store Marina

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Bahia Mar Marina

Pier Sixty-Six Marina

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