Owning a large boat in either Spain or Portugal
Discussion
Can anyone in a similar situation, offer some advise on owning a large boat in either Spain or Portugal. I am interested in buying a boat (motor) in the Med, so I can visit and spend extended time with family.
The size of boat I am looking at would be 45 to 55 feet ish, that would accommodate 6 people comfortably. My intention would not be to use it to tour but mainly as floating accommodation.
Would really like to explore if this is possible and if living on a boat of this size is comfortable and doable.
I also have the pleasure of having a British and Irish passport so I hope this will be an advantage now Brexit as settled things.
The size of boat I am looking at would be 45 to 55 feet ish, that would accommodate 6 people comfortably. My intention would not be to use it to tour but mainly as floating accommodation.
Would really like to explore if this is possible and if living on a boat of this size is comfortable and doable.
I also have the pleasure of having a British and Irish passport so I hope this will be an advantage now Brexit as settled things.
I'm not trying to dissuade you, but I don't understand why you want all the hassle of a boat when you don't intend to do much boating? Surely you'd get more usable space and comfort from an appreciating shoreside property, rather than a depreciating, space compromised, maintenance hungry (yes, even without moving!) motorboat? You could spend they money you'd save on charters if you did want the occasional boaty experience!
Boatbuoy said:
I'm not trying to dissuade you, but I don't understand why you want all the hassle of a boat when you don't intend to do much boating? Surely you'd get more usable space and comfort from an appreciating shoreside property, rather than a depreciating, space compromised, maintenance hungry (yes, even without moving!) motorboat? You could spend they money you'd save on charters if you did want the occasional boaty experience!
Strong agree. If you’re not going to travel far then the answer has to be a villa/apartment and a smaller boat in a local marina for day/weekend trips.Former boat owner (albeit sail not powered).
Have you spent much time onboard a 45-55ft boat as 6 people? They are not particularly spacious. Great for the odd weekend/ week but anything more than that you will feel very shoehorned in.
I lived on a 50ft yacht for 2 months on my own and that is still a big compromise compared to land based living.
As others have said easier to get a day boat/ flat ashore. Will be much better if you have no desire to cruise the boat.
I lived on a 50ft yacht for 2 months on my own and that is still a big compromise compared to land based living.
As others have said easier to get a day boat/ flat ashore. Will be much better if you have no desire to cruise the boat.
Was going to say that, even with a flybridge you’ll be tripping over each other with 4 aboard. Fine for short trips, not to live on.
I’m also not sure how pleasant it would be in winter relying on A/C for heating.
Also those sodding sailing boats with the ropes flapping against the mast all night
I’m also not sure how pleasant it would be in winter relying on A/C for heating.
Also those sodding sailing boats with the ropes flapping against the mast all night
I think this idea is dead in the water. The more I look into the practicalities of spending time throughout the year on a boat, the less I find this appealing. My initial thoughts were, that it must be at least 50% less in capital costs, but give's the same benefits of locality. I guess bricks and mortar will always win.
ajh349 said:
I think this idea is dead in the water. The more I look into the practicalities of spending time throughout the year on a boat, the less I find this appealing. My initial thoughts were, that it must be at least 50% less in capital costs, but give's the same benefits of locality. I guess bricks and mortar will always win.
Boats are one of the three 'F's....'If it Floats, Flies or ***ks, renting is always cheaper.'

If a UK boat remains in EU water for more than certain time it will be liable for VAT so probably advisable to buy within the Eu. The downside is you would also be liable if the boat gets repatriated to the UK.
Typically marinas in Spain are much less expensive than South coast UK but certain ones like Porto Banus are more comparable to UK
Typically marinas in Spain are much less expensive than South coast UK but certain ones like Porto Banus are more comparable to UK
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