SmoCo Sailingvideo
[Ep 4] First Year Living on a Boat: Water in the Boat, Endless Projects, We Quit!
April 6, 2025 · 17 min · 399 views · Breakwater Cove Marina, Monterey
What this video covers
Armand and Liya prepared their boat for a transition to full-time cruising by documenting a year of refits and lifestyle adjustments while moored at Breakwater Cove Marina in Monterey, California.0:27 The couple managed recurring maintenance issues, including a leaking forward v-berth water tank, a corroded radar mount, and a faulty shower drain.2:36 They tracked project progress and finances through monthly check-ins, estimating a $20,000 budget for essential gear such as a new dinghy, outboard motor, and watermaker.7:16 To accelerate preparations, both owners resigned from their jobs in early 2024, moving their departure date to April.8:53 Throughout the year, they installed significant upgrades, including solar panels, an inverter, a hot water system, and a new galley sink.9:36 The process required balancing boat projects with maintaining their mental health and social lives in Monterey.12:08 By May 2024, the couple finalized their resignations and completed major equipment purchases, shifting their focus to the logistics of sailing south to Mexico.14:41
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