Living on a self-sustaining sailboat: 10 years of experience
Sailing is not just a way of getting around. It is a way of life that allows you to feel freedom and independence, being away from civilization. Brian and Catherine Trautman share their experiences of living on a sailing boat, which fully provides them with everything they need for a comfortable existence even in the most remote corners of the world.
In this article, we will dive into the details of their lives aboard the Dellos boat and find out how they cope with the challenges that adventures at sea bring.
Delos sailing boat: a house on the water
Delos is a 53-foot sailboat of the slup type with two masts, which became the home of the Trautman family. They have been on this boat for 10 years, having traveled more than 83,000 miles, which is equivalent to more than three trips around the world. Thanks to its design, Delos provides comfort and safety, allowing Brian and Karin to enjoy life on the water.
Boat structure and features
Delos has everything you need to live on board. The cockpit of a boat is where most of the action takes place. Navigation devices and sail controls are located here, which allows you to stay safe even in difficult weather conditions. The couple shares that this space also serves as their “second living room” where they spend time chatting and enjoying the views.
The kitchen on the boat is a compact space where Brian and Karin can cook. It is designed to minimize movement during heavy rolling, with the possibility of fastening for safety. There is an induction hob, an ordinary oven and even a washing machine, which is a real luxury for boat life.
Energy and water
One of the key features of life on Delos is independence from external sources of resources. Brian and Karin use solar panels and wind generators to generate electricity. Their system can produce up to 200 liters of fresh water per hour using a de-stalinizer, which allows them to stay in remote locations for a long time.
Family life on a boat
With the arrival of their daughter Siera, life on the boat became even more interesting. Brian and Karin share that having a child on board requires extra effort, but it also brings a lot of joy. They use reusable diapers to minimize the amount of debris, and have a special place for Siera so she can be near them while cooking or doing other things.
Learning and adaptation
Brian, who previously worked as a programmer, became a full-time sailor and video blogger. He studied a lot of resources to learn how to operate a boat, and shares that the first few years required a lot of time and effort to master the skills needed to keep the boat in good condition.
Lifestyle and budget
According to Brian, living on a boat can be cost-effective, but it depends on lifestyle. They spend about $2,500 a month, including food, fuel, and other expenses. It is important to note that this amount does not include the cost of the boat itself, which can significantly increase the budget for those who plan to live on the water.
Maintenance and repair
Boat maintenance is an ongoing process that requires considerable effort. Brian shares that he had to learn how to be an electrician, plumber, and mechanic to keep the boat in working order. He estimates his maintenance costs at $700 per month, but if they didn’t do the work themselves, those costs could triple.
Adventures and challenges
Life at sea is full of surprises. Brian and Karin share that sometimes they have to deal with difficult situations, such as bad weather or the need to move the boat to a safer place. They also mention the importance of planning routes based on weather conditions and seasons.
Safety on board
Safety is a priority for the Trautman family. The boat has a variety of safety systems, including radios and life rafts. Brian talks about the importance of preparing for emergencies and having the necessary supplies to survive if necessary to leave the boat.
Conclusion
Life on a sailing boat is a unique experience that combines freedom, adventure and challenges. Brian and Catherine Trautman show how you can live in harmony with nature, enjoying every moment spent on the water. Their story inspires many who dream of living at sea and are ready for adventures.
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The article describes the experience and impressions from this video:
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