Nautical Banter: Less is More as a Liveaboard

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1. We lived on our 42 foot Matthews for 10 years, with our Doberman, and loved it. Just outside your door was the kayak, and the sailing dingy. And lots of friends.

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2. Great column about transitioning from home to boat, from a real life, local perspective. Reality, really struck me one morning, as a newbie in a slip, when my neighboring slip mate, was already sitting out, and only about 6ft – 8 ft away from me! My personal space was encroached upon, even though we did express morning niceties. We’re only once a week boaters, I like saying hi to dock mates, we look out for one another, but your article heightens my appreciation and awareness of privacy. How close is too close?!! Maybe I wouldn’t want to be so friendly, if I was a live aboard?? Am I intruding, or too nosey? Or vice a versa? Learning to accept others’ living styles, in adjacent slips, lack of privacy and such tight quarters, are serious BIG deals to consider, OR contend with!!!! Please write more!!!!!

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3. One thing that surprised me about my new live-aboard neighbors is that they brought with them 3 dogs, one of which is a 220 lb. mastiff. They chose the last slip away from shore in a very long shed.

   When do you take your 220lb Mastiff back to shore to do his business? Anytime he wants. So just like clockwork, at 2-3 A.M. every morning I’m sleeping on my boat, I hear the pitter-patter of huge feet, hoofing it (literally) down the walkway.

   As for being social, it is important to realize that your social life gets “enjoyed” by everyone else at your dock, whether they wish to enjoy it or not. I’m sure you are right proud of your taste in music, for example, but you should be aware that “Rap Music” is an oxymoron to most of those around you.

   For good measure, that oh so funny joke spewing forth from your inebriated brain is not that funny as it carries across the water four sheds down the harbor.

   But I digress. live-aboards are great!

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