Sailing around the world is awesome…but it’s also dangerous and expensive.
Living on a small boat in the marina is fun – until the cabin starts to feel cramped and claustrophobic.
Living on a fishing trawler, however, is one of the safest and most comfortable ways to fully embrace life on the water.
The Liveaboard Trawler Lifestyle
Living aboard a trawler is more than just a change of scenery; it’s a complete transformation of lifestyle. Trawlers offer:
● Stability
● Easy access
● More room for sleeping quarters
● Larger kitchens
● Ample storage space for all your belongings
Say goodbye to cramped quarters and limited headroom, as trawlers boast more spacious interiors than sailboats.
If you’re not familiar with fishing boats with a cabin, check out our complete guide here. (And if you’re unsure what the difference is, you can familiarize yourself with the types of boats here.)
Long-Range Cruising
One of the most appealing aspects of living aboard a trawler is the ability to travel far and wide, exploring distant ports and remote areas.
Many trawlers are designed to cross oceans, meaning you can travel virtually anywhere on the seas.
Also, with their shallow draft, trawlers can easily navigate inland waters and anchor in more locations – while still being capable of handling deep sea conditions.
Trawlers also boast spacious outdoor areas, such as the aft deck and flybridge.
Comfort and Space
Trawlers excel in providing comfort and space. If you’ve ever spent any time on a boat, you know that being able to stow all of your stuff is crucial. And you need a lot more stuff if you’re living on the boat full-time!
Trawlers feel large and inviting with their more boxy, wide-open interior spaces. Climb aboard, and you’ll see the trawler as more than just a recreation option but a potential living space. Trawlers typically have more headroom below deck and ample space on deck for entertaining guests.
One of the reasons for this spaciousness is the use of full displacement hulls in trawler design. Displacement hulls travel below the water’s surface – not on top of the water. This makes them slower but very stable.
Choosing the Right Liveaboard Trawler
Remember, the trawler you choose will be your home, your mode of transportation, and your gateway to countless adventures. Taking the time to thoroughly research and weigh your options will ensure that you find the ideal trawler that meets your needs and allows you to embrace the liveaboard lifestyle fully.
When shopping for a trawler, consider the following:
Size Considerations
Selecting a trawler of appropriate size is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable onboard living experience.
For couples, a trawler of at least 30 feet in length is recommended.
Families, on the other hand, should consider a trawler that is at least 40 feet long to accommodate the needs and preferences of all members.
Keep in mind that size considerations are not solely about the length of the trawler. You should also think about the living spaces, storage capacity, and overall layout of the vessel when making your decision.
Budget and Financing
As a trawler is a significant investment, you’ll need to seriously weigh the financial aspects of buying and maintaining your vessel (including those pesky hidden costs).
When budgeting for a trawler, consider the following costs:
● The cost of the boat itself
● Insurance
● Maintenance
● Fuel
Don’t forget to factor in any potential upgrades or repairs, as these expenses can add up.
Keep in mind that liveaboard boats often cost more to insure than recreational boats, so it’s crucial to account for this when planning your budget. For more information on the average costs of boat insurance, check out this resource.
Popular Manufacturers and Models
Choosing a reputable trawler model and manufacturer is key to a smooth, enjoyable, live-aboard experience. Some popular trawler boat manufacturers include Beneteau, Grand Banks, Nordhavn, Nordic Tugs, and Ranger Tugs.
In the social media age, one of your best options is to search online for people living the “trawler lifestyle.” They will be more than happy to tell you what they think is the best liveaboard trawler. Using social media to your advantage is a great way to get a sense of authentic trawler life.
Essential Amenities for Living Aboard a Trawler
Once you’ve chosen the perfect trawler, it’s time to ensure your new floating home is equipped with all the essential amenities for a comfortable and enjoyable live-aboard experience.
A marine trader-style trawler, for example, may feature a recliner sofa, a large flat-screen TV, and a surround sound soundbar, ensuring that you have all the comforts of home while living aboard.
Some key features and comforts to consider include:
● Full-size kitchens and bathrooms
● Climate control options
● Entertainment systems
● Comfortable sleeping quarters
● Ample storage space
Full-size Kitchens and Multiple Bathrooms
A well-equipped kitchen and bathroom are essential for comfortable living aboard a trawler. Full-size kitchens typically come with:
● Stove
● Oven
● Refrigerator
● Sink
● Plenty of counter space
Additional appliances like a microwave and dishwasher are often included.
Some of the larger trawlers even have two bathrooms.
Climate Control and Air Conditioning
Living on a trawler necessitates a good cabin heating and cooling system. You won’t notice a trawler’s other amenities if your teeth are chattering or you’re dripping sweat in the cabin.
Popular climate control systems for liveaboard trawlers include reverse cycle air conditioning systems, evaporative cooling systems, and portable air conditioners.
Entertainment and Connectivity
Living on a trawler doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice your connection to the world or your entertainment options.
In the era of satellite internet for boats, it’s possible to use all your digital tools and devices:
● Navigation equipment
● Entertainment systems
● Computers
● Mobile devices
You might consider starting a YouTube Channel (like these fellow full-time boaters). Many trawler lifestyle devotees partially finance their journey this way.
Trawler Safety and Maintenance
Don’t let all the comforts of a trawler cause you to forget: Safety is still the most important consideration on any boat.
Essential Safety Equipment
Essential safety equipment includes:
● Life jackets and personal flotation devices (PFDs)
● Throwable flotation devices
● Fire extinguishers
● Visual signaling devices
● A bilge pump system
● CO2 and smoke detectors
Routine Maintenance
Maintaining your trawler routinely is vital for its good condition and a safe, comfortable live-aboard experience. Regular upkeep includes inspecting and replacing parts, cleaning, and performing preventative maintenance tasks to address any signs of wear and tear.
Professional Maintenance vs. DIY Options
When it comes to your trawler’s maintenance needs, you’ll have to decide whether to hire professionals or handle tasks yourself.
Hiring professionals offers the advantage of expertise and assurance that the job will (usually) be done properly, while DIY options can save money and provide a sense of accomplishment.
For basic cleaning and maintenance tasks, such as waxing, polishing, and changing oil, take the DIY approach.
However, for more complex tasks — such as engine repairs and electrical work —it’s best to rely on professional services to ensure proper and safe completion.
Taking the Trawler Home
Unless you plan to live full-time on your trawler, you’ll need to find trawler storage for those off-periods.
For seemingly hard-to-store items like trawlers, Neighbor has you covered with plenty of affordable boat storage options close to your home when you’re back on land.
