Practical Sailorvideo
The Best Way to Live on a Boat in the Florida Keys
1 February 2025 · 10 min · 754K views · Florida Keys
What this video covers
Living aboard a boat in the Florida Keys requires navigating specific legal, environmental, and infrastructure challenges. Anchoring remains the cheapest option but faces strict regulations, including a 90-day move rule intended to protect coral reefs from anchor and chain damage. Shallow, clear waters often feature poor holding, forcing many liveaboards to deploy three to five anchors to withstand 50-knot windstorms. Alternatively, mooring fields offer more security and often include marina amenities like laundry and parking, though costs range from several hundred to over $1,000 monthly. Renting a dock slip for a 40-foot boat averages $1,000 per month, plus utilities and mandatory liability insurance. Purchasing a slip for $250,000 to $300,000 provides long-term stability, with lenders offering specialized mortgages. Regardless of the arrangement, residents must account for constant maintenance, the necessity of air conditioning, and the significant risk of hurricane-driven storm surges.
More from Practical Sailor
From Practical Sailor — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analysed video.
The Sailing Directory Newsletter
One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.