Question 1

1. What is blue water cruising?

Accepted Answer

Blue water cruising is long-distance sailing on open oceans, often involving crossing vast stretches of water and exploring remote destinations. It’s about self-sufficiency, adventure, and embracing a lifestyle of freedom at sea.

Question 2

Do I need sailing experience to live on a boat and travel the world?

Accepted Answer

No! Many blue water cruisers, including families and solo sailors, start with little to no experience. The key is a willingness to learn, starting with sailing courses, hands-on practice, and learning from experienced cruisers.

Question 3

How much does it cost to sail full-time?

Accepted Answer

The cost varies widely depending on your boat, lifestyle, and cruising destinations. Some sail on a tight budget of $1,500–$3,000 per month, while others spend $5,000+ for added comforts. We’ll discuss budgeting strategies, how to save money, and ways to sustain this lifestyle.

Question 4

What kind of boat is best for blue water cruising?

Accepted Answer

The best boat depends on your budget, crew size, and sailing goals. Some prefer monohulls for their affordability and traditional feel, while others choose catamarans for space and stability. We’ll cover key features to look for when choosing a seaworthy vessel.

Question 5

How do you make money while sailing?

Accepted Answer

Many cruisers sustain their lifestyle through remote work, online businesses, content creation, freelance work, or rental income. We’ll explore different ways to fund your adventure so you can keep sailing indefinitely.

Question 6

Is it safe to sail around the world?

Accepted Answer

With proper preparation, sailing is a safe and rewarding way to travel. We’ll discuss storm preparedness, navigation tools, pirate risk zones, and essential safety gear to ensure a smooth journey.

Question 7

What about family life and homeschooling on a boat?

Accepted Answer

Many families cruise full-time with kids, using homeschooling or worldschooling methods. We’ll talk about education, socialization, and the benefits of raising children in a global, hands-on learning environment.

Question 8

How do you handle storms and bad weather at sea?

Accepted Answer

Weather routing, storm tactics, and proper preparation are key. We’ll share strategies for avoiding dangerous conditions and how to handle rough weather if you get caught in it.

Question 9

What’s the best way to start preparing for the cruising life?

Accepted Answer

The best first step is to start now—learn to sail, research different boat options, and develop a financial plan. We’ll outline an action plan to help you move from dreaming to doing.

Question 10

Can I sail solo, or do I need a crew?

Accepted Answer

Many people sail solo or with a partner, while others prefer a crew for company and shared responsibilities. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of each, plus how to find crew members if needed.

Charting Your Course: Introduction to Bluewater Cruising