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rv road trip florida keys

Sailboat Shopping Stinks, Let’s Go To The Keys

The Florida Keys are the ultimate winter blues buster.  It’s a tropical island getaway that you can easily drive too…so it’s a huge hit with us RV’ers!

As it turns out, sailboat shopping is a frustratingly slow and tedious process that is simultaneously over and underwhelming.  Unlike RV’s there are not thousands to choose from.  Most manufactures only build a small number of boats each year and only in certain sizes.

Our options for a 40ish foot used catamaran, fit for full time cruising and within our budget, are way more limited than we expected. We’ve scoured the internet and the docks around Ft. Lauderdale, Miami and Palm Beach, yet we’ve only found a small handful of cats to look at.  The craziest part is we’re not even being that picky!

We did however find a couple of boats sitting in the Keys that looked worthy of scoping out.  Plus, we have friends in the Keys that we really wanted to see again. Our friends also happen to have an RV friendly driveway.  So, there really were no excuses not to pack it up and head down.

As you can see, the drive doesn’t really get exciting until after you pass Key Largo.  Then it’s one bridge after another with beautiful turquoise waters calling your name.

This is as close to a tropical paradise as you can get without hopping on a plane or a boat!  The locals have a joke down here “we’re closer to Cuba than Wal-Mart!”  Cuba is only 90 miles away…too bad we don’t already have a sailboat ‘cause it’s only a hop, skip and a jump away (FYI – the nearest Wal-Mart is over 120 miles away).

from the keys to cuba

Sadly, we didn’t get to check out the two boats we were hoping to see, but I am sure we’ll still manage to enjoy the sunsets, good company and catch a small case of the Keys disease.

Kent, our boat broker, has been on the case sending us updates and potential new boats to look at when we return from hanging in the keys.  With Kent’s advice, and a crapload of online research, we feel like we’ve narrowed it down to a few possible brands of cruising catamarans…so now we have to play the waiting game.

Before you even ask, we tried talking our friends Todd and Maggie (also RV’ers) into letting us post their address as the perfect Florida Keys boondocking location.  They weren’t on board with that idea.  So, my suggestion is this…if you happen to meet a Todd and Maggie while out camping, invite them over and bust out the good wine, you never know where a bit of quality socializing will lead!

Stay tuned because next we plan on taking you around Key West and sharing some of the local’s favorite spots.  We’ll also give you our top camping recommendations and show off a few awesome spots to anchor a boat.  And I’ll convince Jason to buy a fishing & shellfish license so he can hop in the frigid water to grab a few lobsters for us.  See ya next week!

Extras you may have noticed:

Equipment used to film this video:

Road Report

Where We Parked It – While in Ft. Lauderdale are we stayed at the Davie KOA  and of course parked it in our friends driveway once in The Keys. Stay tuned for our Key West video where we’ll discuss Keys campground options.
Gear Suggestions – You will want bug spray! Florida is notorious for mosquitoes and no-seeums. We have found that the natural lemongrass bug sprays work best and the thermacell: https://www.gonewiththewynns.com/product/thermacell-mosquito-repellent-lantern
Road Conditions – Roads are all in good condition but be mindful of the time of day as traffic can get crazy around here.  Try to avoid the 6pm rush.
Best Time To Visit – Winter or Summer.  Winter brings perfect 70-80 degree weather but also lots of wind.  The summer is hot but the fishing, snorkeling and diving are prime.
Date of Road Trip – March 7th

Hello there! I honestly don’t know what to say, so I am going to tell you a bunch of random facts instead. I'm a fish eating vegetarian who hates spiders and loves snakes. I almost never took vacations growing up. I wanted to be Pippi Longstocking (still do). I misspell about every other word I write and still struggle with grammar. I love splurging on a good high tea (which is really hard to find these days). And whatever you do, don’t tell me I can’t do something, because then I'll HAVE to do it!

Comments (105)

  • Dave Cannamela

    Hey Guys! Big boating show in Annapolis this and next weekend!! I still say you should start looking at Monohulls the newer ones are very beamy and bring the beam further aft giving you as much room as your RV!!

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  • Teresa

    Loved this vid. This was the first winter I haven’t driven down to the Keys from Minnesota in 5 years and totally miss it! Stayed a month in 2015. Thanks for my only 2016 glimpse!!

    So…I can’t help at all with boats, but I think (could be wrong!) locals say “I’ll-more-ah-da” (emphasis on 1st syllable) and “bah-high honda”(emphasis on 2nd syl). 🙂

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  • Lance and Shirley Hunt

    Hey guys your adventure in RV inspires my husband and me!! We have a RV and traveling as much as possible. I still work and husband retired. We sold our 28 ft Catalina sailboat and now charter. A great way to have fun!! We love our RV and hope to go full time some day. Stay save fun travels! Lance and Shirley

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  • I just added this site http://www.bumfuzzle.com/blogs/ to http://www.hitchitchitch.com
    Their link http://www.bumfuzzle.com/adventure/ Has extensive coverage of their travels around the world in their 2003 35′ Wildcat Catamaran. Costs and everything. Check it out.

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  • Brian

    In my previous posting I meant to say………….DON”T buy something, just to be buying…………..geeeesh, I guess I need to start proof reading my posts. We have spell, check, I need a Proof Reading Check

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  • Brian

    I know very little about sailing boats, but here’s one I found. http://westcoastmultihulls.com/boats-for-sale/lagoon-42-tpi-cruising-catamaran-cruise-ready/
    Most of the ones I looked at online, don’t look very homey, very different then a motor home. Also the beds are stuck in a hole, with no walk around, must be fun trying to make the bed. Looks like it will be a major change from RVing. Good Luck, hope you find something you like…………my only word of advice is, don’t get frustrated and buy something, just to be buying.

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  • Dirk Van Essendelft

    Also, you should probably expand your search area and even consider buying a boat several thousand miles away. Yes Florida is a decent place to find a boat and is the catamaran capital of the world, but it is far from the only or best place to get a good deal. When you are considering dropping that kind of cash for a yacht, the cost of flying to see a good one and even hiring someone to sail it back for you is very small. Your talking a few thousand dollars to get a potentially much better deal by expanding your search area.

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  • Dirk Van Essendelft

    One good and highly sought after yacht is a PDQ. They are relatively fast and quite sturdy. The company started making commodity level sail boats with the 32 and 36. In the late nineties they decided to make high end luxury power cats. So the sailboats you find will be from the mid nineties or older. The layout is pretty good especially for the size. I would try to find a good 36 or at least try to do a test sail. You can find them for under $175k depending on how they are equipped. The good thing is that boats age gracefully if they are well maintained and PDQ owners have the reputation of being experienced and fastidious yacht owners. I want to get one when I retire. They are great boats and good for Island hopping and small passage excursions. They also hold their value well as they are a desired brand. People have done many ocean crossings in them, but I wouldn’t. they are solid and think they will do everything you want them to do without breaking the bank.

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    • Dirk VanEssendelft

      I mis spoke… They continues to make the PDQ 36 Capella until the mid 2000s. Then they decided to quit making production boats and start making custom order high end boats much the sme as Hinkly. They started making a 42 and a 44 and still make them today. You are unlikely to wind one for under $400k though… Factory new and loaded they are close to a million.

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  • Dirk Van Essendelft

    Not sure about the market now because I haven’t looked in a while, but you can get a good deal on a used charter boat. The moorings almost exclusively uses Leopard Catamarans which are awesome. They are sturdy blue water boats and have a world class reputation. They are made in Durban South Africa. They are often only a few years old and you can find quality ones around. Just be careful to have a full marine inspection and ask about accidents and repairs. You have to remember that they have been used by inexperienced people who only need a drivers licence to charter so they may have been abused. However, if you can find one that has survived without major incident, you can pick it up at a good deal. The only issue is that you probably wont find an owners suite.

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    • You are indeed receiving lots of “advice” on what boat may suit your needs and what you need to consider. One of the risks in receiving unsolicited or possible unqualified input is that people may offer you opinions yet characterize such opinion as being factual. Clearly this could be riddled with inherent risk. have no doubt that you are putting much thought and consideration as well as meaningful research in to you boat hunting. Resource yourselves with experienced folks who have already pursued and executed your dream. Many have us have already made the mistakes and overcome hurdles that you are yet to encounter or that you could avoid with a bit of sage advice. Walk the docks, attend boat shows if and where you can, read sailblogs & forums, and hang out with cruising sailors (current or past).

      Have you considered casting your boat-searching net a bit further? The Bahamas and the Caribbean are some of the world’s most favorable cruising grounds and many sailors have started and ended their voyages there. Lots of boating real estate for sale in many ports. Many of these are privately owned by folks from the USA and Canada. It is not unusual for a potential seller to consider moving the boat to a location of your choice with a bit of negotiation.

      A quick hunt around the web again this morning and I’ve found a number very suitable cats that would readily fit your budget. I’ve spotted two Lagoon 41 S2 mid 2000’s for less than $190,000. Great boats, loads of room, and could easily carry you to near and distant shores when commissioned and fitted out appropriately.

      Many folks are out cruising on ex-charter catamarans. They become affordable as they have depreciated and earned their monies while in charter service and then are decommissioned often after 4 – 5 years of service. The Moorings, Sunsail and Dream Yacht Charters are three of the most recognized and reputable companies out there. Their fleets favor Leopard, Lagoon, Fountaine Pajot and Catana catamarans. The catamarans in the fleet are however dominated by boats built in South Africa and France. Leopard catamarans are built by Robertson and Caine in Cape Town, South Africa and many of these cats have sailed on their own hull from the challenging waters off southern Africa to their new owners in the Caribbean and around the world. My bias here is that I am a South African ex-pat whose now lived in Canada for 25 years (and we have previously owned a Leopard 40).

      Would be happy to share our past boat-buying experiences with you on a Skype, FaceTime or more simply by phone call call if you wish. Will leave the ball in your court.

      Best wishes,

      Alan

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      • Dirk Van Essendelft

        Good advice and I should have looked up where they were made… I was going off of memory. Most of my cruising experience is not with Cat’s or in the Caribbean. Most of my life was spent on mono hulls cruising the great lakes. My dad and I sailed a lot together on his Catalina 30 and have taken it out solo many times. There was a time in life where I spent a lot of time reviewing and looking into Cat’s because I wanted to work down in Texas and live on a cat. I have been on a number of them and sailed several of them. Life didn’t work out as I had hoped and now we live in the Pittsburgh area and do RV’ing as much as we can. I still go back to Michigan to sail a few times a year and miss going out every weekend like we used to.

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        • Dirk – might I suggest weekend trips with the RV to Erie. Lots of sailing only 2 hours away. I have sailed there for many years with people from Pittsburgh.

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  • Jim

    Hey guys, have enjoyed your info over the past year+. We are in the process of selling the house and going full-time RV, however as a former boat dealer and yacht broker I can help answer any questions you may have – without the BS because I am not selling you anything. Shoot me an email anytime (we are on the West coast of FL), don’t want to see you make any mistakes.

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  • Don

    I like this one, but it is in Mexico and you’re not. http://westcoastmultihulls.com/boats-for-sale/lagoon-42-tpi-cruising-catamaran-cruise-ready/
    [Couldn’t pay me to live on a boat, but can’t stop me from shopping. I was curious. I’ll stop now.]
    Have loved all the RV sharing. Thanks, guys.

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  • Mary

    My husband and I will soon be embarking on a semi full time rv life?So love all your blogs, such great info! Such an inspiration, thanks guys!

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  • Rod Davidson

    I like the way you are approaching this, so I thought I would bring up some possible considerations.
    Where are you going to sail? Lots of shallow water (eg Bahamas, French Polynesia) you need to think about what you have under the water. Will your keel be sufficient to protect your propellers, will you rudders have adequate protection? You will end up near floating ropes and other tangle hazards at some point, and you will touch the bottom from time to time (hopefully sand). Many cats have sail drives, look them up, investigate them, and make your own decision. Many cats have dagger type rudders, I personally prefer a rudder supported both top and bottom (skeg-mounted), again look them up and decide.
    My last thought is the location of the helm, for both comfort and safety I believe a protected (from the elements) helm is a prime concern. There is nothing more miserable being out in the weather in heavy seas bearing the brunt of spray, rain and wind. It leaves you chilled to the bone and saps your strength, even in tropical waters. You will run in to foul weather, it’s a fact of life. Even with these unpleasant periods, there are many, many, many (yes, 3 manys) more times where all is exciting and wonderful.

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  • Sandy Gens

    Our good friends, Karen & Chris Simpson, own BVI Yacht Charters in Tortola. I was just looking on their website and noticed a 41 ft Lagoon and the price was just dropped to $189k. It has a relatively open galley, a captain’s chair that is a part of the cockpit (as you wanted) and some lovely little sunny spots for the cats! Lagoons have pretty good storage space too. I’d be happy to “introduce” you to Chris if you so desire.

    I remember sitting on a mooring ball in Trellis Bay and looking over at the next boat. A little cat sat on deck with his paws draped over the gunwales while he spent a lazy morning watching all the fish swim down below. I wondered if he was a good enough swimmer to catch his own lunch!

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  • Tom from Chicago

    OMG No.

    There are a million Catamarans on sailboatlistings.com (listed by owner) and yachtworld.com (listed by broker).

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  • Roy B

    Found more interesting sites on youtube for cats,, maybe a brand that will fit your need. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zmTvp_dwhaU

    He also had insite on where to look for cats, and the time to buy in another video.

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  • Greetings Jason and Nikki:

    Stumbled across your popular blog while doing other extraneous research this evening. A brief bit of motivation – your sailing dreams are indeed well within reach but do require strategy, resourcefulness and the ability to be accelerated adaptive learners.

    I’m a mid career professional living and working on the west coast of Canada. In 2010 my wife and I bought a sailing catamaran with the purpose of spending a one year sailing sabbatical out on the water of the Caribbean with our two teenage daughters. In short – it was an amazing and inspiring year! Very manageable in having three novice sailors on board for the journey with me. Needless to say while planning for our adventure we went through many of the same experiences and soul-searching that you two are no doubt in the thick of. Our message is simple, avoid any detractors or naysayers – just do it!! If planned for appropriately, this is well within your collective abilities.

    In preparing for our adventure, we read extensively, and gained as many necessary skills as we could in a hands-on manner including many of the condensed and targeted courses offered through the accredited sailing schools and programs.

    There is no perfect sailboat or yacht out there, but there is one with your name on it if you do your homework. We set off on a used 40′ sailing catamaran and she served us admirably. We had no trouble selling her once our sabbatical was complete with the assistance of knowledgeable broker who was well worth his commission.

    We spent our year in the Bahamas which was an excellent introduction to live aboard sailing and cruising life. We’d strong encourage you to consider doing the same. As your skills and experience grow you will become motivated to journey further if so inclined.

    I spent close to 18 months trolling the internet and sailing magazines looking for that special yacht. They are out there and yours will declare itself at the right moment. You will not be sorry in choosing a catamaran as your preferred sailboat. Lots of redundancy built in, and offers remarkable living space when compared to monohulls of similar length. Remember, you will spend significant time at anchor and “on the hook” and being comfortable while living aboard is a real blessing. Catamarans have both their protagonists and detractors – this is your choice not theirs!

    With my own knowledge and experiences of our own boat search still relatively fresh in my mind, I took a quick look around what is available and in your part of the world and may have found a link to a catamaran that could fit your budget and requirements. Contact me by private message through my email and I’d be delighted to share it with you from our own personal experience and optics of having hunted for and found our own boat in the past.

    Also, read as many sailing blogs out there as you can – many are filled with excellent information, knowledge and learning experiences that can accelerate your own journey. A well written and most informative blog is that of a Canadian couple who started out as neophytes on the east coast, bought a catamaran and have all but since had an amazing adventure. We met Mike and Rebecca in the Bahamas while we were out sailing and have connected with them since in Grenada on later travels. Start at the beginning of their blog to get a feel and flavour for what you must be going through – then jump ahead and experience the amazing life that could be in store for both of you too. Their blog is on the web at http://www.zerotocruising.com

    Best wishes and good luck,

    Alan

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  • Kurt

    You should consider a trip to Bermuda or the Bahamas. Sadly, many retirees take on the “dream of a sailing life” and make it that far before realizing the seriousness of what they are doing. Three days in a mild storm or 15′ swells will make many give it up. The get to the islands, sell the boat and fly back home. It leaves many boats there at often better prices.

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  • CiCi

    I also totally agree on the sailing classes. My brother-in-law took a week long one to get certified to bare boat and he already had sailing experience. He said it made a huge difference for him and he wouldn’t have attempted living aboard without first being a certified captain with several tickets. (Tickets are the levels you are qualified to sail/operate) We live in the USVI and could ask some of our captain friends for recommendations if you need something in the area. Good Luck, love the updates.

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  • CiCi

    You may have better luck in the Caribbean. The BVI’s have charter boats that they phase out after a number of years, we have friends that bought that way and are very happy. Puerto Rico’s economy is tanking and may provide a better deal. There are any number of islands that may have a boat that fits your needs. Just a thought…

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  • Mitch and I were in the lower Keys for 7 weeks this fall. Thank you for your previous description of the Sugarloaf Key/ Key West KOA! It tempted us leave Key West to try it out — thumbs up! We loved it! We also appreciated your recommendation to go to the No Name Pub. The drive there one evening this past December was the only time we’ve ever seen Key deer. I thought they were pretty tiny … I have a picture of one that is dwarfed by a mailbox.

    We also loved Lorelei’s Tiki Bar Sunset Celebration on Islamorada so much, we drove the distance twice from Sugarloaf in the toad to enjoy the great food, cocktails, amazing sunset over still waters, followed by a fun band and dancing.

    Best of luck with the sailboat shopping! We’ll continue to follow you and wish you the best!
    Val and Mitch, RVLuckyOrWhat

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  • While in Key West, take advantage of going sailing on America 2.0. This big , black schooner was inspired by teh 1851 Schooner America , that was the winner of the America’s Cup.
    It combines a very traditional boat design with many different high tech aspects in a new sailboat. Very fast and lots of fun. Although not a cat, it is a real sailboat !

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    • Here is your chance to actually go sailing ! Check your info address for an email.

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  • Leslie Sharpe

    Bloodlines is filmed and set in Islamorada. Check it out if you have a chance.

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  • Scott

    Jason,
    I think your looking in the wrong area for Sailboats, Florida is for Power Boats (think fishing and Condos on the water). Best place to look is The North east coast Maryland and north This is where the sailboats are prime.
    I have previously been in the yacht business in So Cal area and this might work for you. (20 + years).
    I would be happy to help you if you like.
    My wife and I also have 35 yrs of RVing and that is why I look at your site. I am very grateful to you and Nikki for you Blog site and input.

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  • Victoria Leavy

    Why don’t you take a series of really serious sailing lessons from a professional USCG approved company, then bare boat charter a catamaran AND a monohull? Since neither of you has experience, you may not fully understand the differences without sailing both. There is are pros and cons to both. Don’t get stuck on heeling over being the decision maker. Talk to a lot of people about both. Experience is the difference between solving a problem or having a disaster when it gets hairy and/or things go wrong. Even an old boat needs the best instrumentation money can buy and all boats need tons of maintenance in the salt water environment. There are some great older boats out there…it’s going to take time, patience and cash. Take advantage of this down time to take lessons and get some experience.

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    • Kurt

      I have to agreewith Victoria. Sailing, as you describe your plans, is not a RV on the water. A 40′ cat with two people in rough weather is a handful, if you know what you are doing. I love sailing – it is a lifestyle, but I listen to people give the “people have rowed across the ocean” but what they failed to mention is how many did not make it. The coast guard is not AAA, and if you are calling on them, you are asking that they risk their lives for you.

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  • Larry Odom

    Great vlog/blog, Nikki!
    The one immutable law of life is: Things change! Don’t be discouraged by what isn’t or hasn’t come together, regarding the catamaran. Keep your eye on the prize and the goal and continue to add your faith to your search and it’ll come about, almost of its own accord. I’m so impressed with you guys and add my faith to yours.
    -Larry

    Postscript:
    “There is no time or distance in the realm of the spirit,”
    -St. Paul

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  • ShirleyD

    Try The Square Grouper in Cudjoe Key for great food!

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  • Oh yeah, one more thing,
    Have you read, Awakening Waves? http://www.amazon.com/Awakening-Waves-exciting-sailing-adventure-ebook/dp/B00768ZXCE It’s a neat story of an LA Lawyer selling everthing, buying a sailboat, and sailing the Pacific with his wife. How he endured the social judgement of it all, the journey of learning about boats, sailing, picking the right boat, trials and tribulation, etc. It’s very interesting and quite hair raising when they get into the Polynesian Islands. Yikes.

    Your current goings on reminded me of this book. I think you’ll like it! And, maybe find a few gems in those pages.
    🙂
    Cheers,
    Sean

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  • Hey Guys!

    I was thinking about reaching out to you guys after the last video since you were somewhat close, in West Palm. But, I just now learned that you were staying in my backyard! The ex nudist colony / KOA is just down the street from my house, where I grew up. As a kid, I had a friend who lived there. The one time I walked to his house he told me, “If you see anything unusual, don’t stare.” Haha! I must have been about 10. That was about 26 years ago.

    If you guys decide to come back to Fort Lauderdale. My wife and I would love to meet and/or host you guys. We have a driveway with 50-amp hookup and water…. food and drinks, etc. 🙂 We’d be happy to show you around Fort Lauderdale if you get bored. Sounds like boat shopping is proving difficult. Sean and Louise from http://ourodyssey.blogspot.com/ is another nomadic couple who made the transition from RVing to boating. Sean is very mechanically inclined and maybe can help in your hunt if you two got in touch. They also have an immensely popular blog. Oh, and they’re in Fort Lauderdale right now too.

    Tracy (my wife), Eva (daughter), and I used to full-time, hence the hookups at all of our parents houses. But unfortunately, we were lured back into the rat-race temporarily. We sold the Newmar, bought a house, got our feet back under us, and now we’re aiming at a second shot at full-timing. It’s harder for us young folk to make this work I think. Our first shot is/was full of learning experiences. So, we have the tried and failed story to share.

    Safe Travels!

    Best Wishes,
    Sean

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  • Hey Jason & Niki, if you two are unsuccessful in your pursuits of locating a Catermeran, on your return ride out of the the Keys, travel the west coast of Florida and tour Southwest Florida. The snow birds will be migrating north, and the area will recapture some of its quaint small town feel. When in Key West check out the Ferry that takes passengers from Key West Florida to Fort Myers Florida in Four hours. http://www.keywestexpress.net

    There is an emergening micro brewery scene complete with food trucks at one location onThursday nights.http://www.swflbrewerytours.com

    Remain safe in you travels! 🙂

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  • Erin

    I stopped once at Bass Pro Shop on Islamorada for one reason only: to see Hemingway’s sister ship the Pilar (you can board it in snoop around, etc.). Being a crazed Hemingway fan, I had to. Maybe that’s why the parking lot is full all the time?

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  • Hey guys, I’ve been following you RV post and adventures. They’ve been great. My wife and I were planning boating adventure as you are. We bought a boat and outfitted it for the crushing life. Unfortunately Healy issue with both of us have trumped our plans and now we’re considering the RV adventure. The issue is we have a very nice monohull 41 ft Hunter sailboat for sale.. I know you’re looking at catamarans but wanted to just let you know.. Good luck with you search. Take your time and do your research.. You’ll find her.

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  • Check out this website it may help. Also why are you limited to shopping in Florida? Capistrano, California is a great place to shop, also anywhere along the gulf coast. You two are certainly living a great life. My wife and I are upgrading to a class A this summer and your reviews have help us tremendously. Have you had any interaction with Thor Industries. We are looking at purchasing the Challenger 37 TB. Happy shopping…..
    http://www.catamaransite.com/Voyage-450-Cabriolet-catamaran-for-sale-01.html

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  • Bon Pierce

    Can you just lease a boat for a year?

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  • Chris Flower

    Hi Guys,
    Have you thought about getting a motor boat? I would go for a trawler style I.E a Grand Banks lots of usable space to live in. They normally have generator, A/C, big fridge and freezer, water maker, room for a good sized tender for those trips ashore, room for solar panels. There are a few with single engines but most have twin diesels don’t be put off by the fuel consumption, if you stay at displacement speed 6 / 7 Knots and run on one engine it won’t be that scary, avoid big turbo monsters as they like to run at higher speeds and love a drink! You can do the Great Loop, it takes about a year to go right around or a life time if you just take it easy, then you have the Great lakes and up into Canada, Thousand islands, Trent and Seven canal/river in the summer and head South for the winter. Please check out the Great Loop and the Canadian waterways I am sure you will be impressed.

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  • Scott & Irina Green

    Just for kicks, have you looked at a Helia 44? Wondering what you think of it?

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  • Lucy

    Your copyright notice at the end of your last few videos still say 2015. Also, perhaps you could contact some sailing clubs to see if people are selling their boats or know someone thinking of selling. I’m in one in North Broward, but they are all over the place.

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  • Deborah Kerr

    Beautiful awesome scenery!! Thanks for the ride-a-long 🙂

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  • Colin

    Came across this young couple who, like yourselves, sold everything and bought a sailboat to cruise around the eastern Caribbean. Check out their YouTube channel: Never Monday Sailing. Maybe connect with them about your next adventure. I’m sure they have lots of tips for you.

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  • Kay

    Perhaps wearing a Hei Matau you will bring you good luck in finding the right boat as well as safe passage over water.
    Two of my favorite things to do in Key West:
    1) Sail with Capt. Rio on the square rigged topsail Schooner Jolly II Rover … Sunset sail or let your inner pirate loose and sail with him in the Wrecker’s Races.
    2) Sunday evening jazz at The Gardens Hotel (“1000 places to see before you die”) and d’Vine Wine Bar. This state-of-the-art wine tasting bar allows the enthusiast of connoisseur the ability to serve yourself a sample from one ounce, up to a full glass of wine from around the world.
    Love your blog and all the good advice. Have a blast in KW! I’ve already made my deposit for camp site in KW 2017?????

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  • Nick Folks

    Hi folks! I hope the Seawind 1160 (38′) has crossed your path. It’s a dream cat in the owner’s version. Good luck!

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  • mary

    I’m with Sheila. Take you time, it has to be the right boat. I know you are anxious to get on the water and get your feet wet. It will happen when it is the right time. 😉

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  • illya

    I’ve found the same problems with looking for a trailer, RV or anything i can use for a month or so to take my daughter on vacation, after searching so many options i just became burned out on it all. So i gave up and just let time and space maker be my guide and let things fall as they fall. I won’t just settle for ehhh i guess this will do, i want it to be like Thank you i want this so bad!!! It will happen for you, just let it and take it at an enjoyable pace.
    I think you could use this site for personal sale items that you plan on getting rid of also. I am sure you have to leave some things in the RV like maybe max air fans or maybe put the stock ones back in. But i know you guys have a lot invested so get back whatever you can. It all will add up to help the budget. and save gas ? Enjoy the RV while she’s still yours.

    Thanks, illya

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  • Michael Turnage

    Please adopt me!!~!~

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    • HA! We’ll likely offer some sort of way to get on board for a sailing stint…stay tuned.

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  • Marcia jones

    As an old gal, I worry about you two. Just take your time, don’t rush this purchase and remember, if it’s meant to be it will happen. We all love you!

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    • Oh yea, our broker says the same thing “you just have to slog through it and it’ll turn up”

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  • tom hightshue

    When in Fort Lauderdale, check out Blue Water Sailing School (www.bwss.com). You can take a one week class, live on that same boat for the week, and end up with some certifications that you can use to charter a sailboat, or allow you to safely sail on your own. Its the least expensive way to try out the sailing lifestyle.

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    • We are sailing with an ASA instructor from BWSS at the end of the month!

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  • Sheila Hagadone

    I totally agree with Tom! I’d much rather watch YOUR videos than the Kardashians (ick)!!!! Sorry you’re having a rough time finding a boat! All good things in time…..and while you’re waiting, Drink Up!!! Wish I was there! Looks WONDERFUL!

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  • Frank Meneses

    Hi Nikki is for power or sailboats not Cats. Here is video u might like https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aM6ltWDFXcM its about Cat buying. The best play to buy in the West is the BVI and Europe for the rest of the world. By the way is use yachtworld.com for searching.

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  • T C Spencer

    Plan B – What about renting or leasing a sailboat?
    Plac C – What about a house boat on a large lake?

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    • We’re pretty set on traveling the world one day so a nice cruising cat is the ticket.

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  • Tom

    Dang Nikki, those drinks looked yummy and the atmosphere for the happy hour was stunning !! Thanks for sharing with all of us. You guys are much more interesting than “Keeping up with the Kardashians” any day !

    Tom in So. Cal.

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  • Allan

    Are you familiar with this site? Here’s one cat on that site that seems to be close to what you’re looking for:
    http://www.catamaransite.com/Lagoon-410-catamaran-for-sale-5.html

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  • Mary Pyatte

    Go for a trawler….Island Gypsy, Great Harbor, Grand Banks….
    Love your blog….we are now RVing

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  • Jerry Cummins

    It seems like a big and steep learning curve to learn enough to justify that type of investment.

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  • John & Jane Timmons

    There is a cat that just went on the market up in Ft. Pierce – a 1996 Fontaine Pajot Venenzia 42′. It’s a couple of years older than you’re looking for, but it excellent condition. We’ve spent many enjoyable hours on this magnificent boat. It’s been well maintained and has many liveaboard features. The owner is a good friend, a captain, and will certainly spend some time with you learning to sail her. Here’s the listing: http://www.yachtworld.com/boats/1996/Fountaine-Pajot-Venezia-42-2930706/Ft.-Pierce/FL/United-States#.VuX4b_krKUk

    If you have any questions, please contact us. We can also provide you with the direct number of the owner with questions.

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  • Allan

    On you way back north, there’s a must stop at Robbie’s Pier in Islamorada to hand feed the tarpon!
    http://www.robbies.com/tarpon.htm

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    • We did that last year and thought it was the funniest thing! Good Times 🙂

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  • Mickey Mitchell

    If you get a boat in Florida it could have a storm and blow it a few miles inland any day. If you buy a boat and the better boats are in l.a. area they have no storms and you have all year great weather to learn how to sail it. It will stay in a slip and safe as milk. Wood boats can now be worked on so easy to fix anything with west systems to patch and glue any problem. THe painting it bs bad science is all people will tell you and that is from salesman, Anyone that know much about boats will tell you to not buy a boat from anyone but the wife of the dead sailor that owned it cheap and in good shape, You want a small boat if you really want to go around the world so you can handle it make it right for the trip with lowest cost and safer than a big boat you do not want a motor you want to paddle it like larry pardey and learn to sail it as if you had a motor, If you buy every lin and larry pardey video and book you have a chance other wise your really starting way off course to buy a boat the no one else wants when you realize it is the wrong one and you are stupid as hell to have been so green. YOu can get the boat you are needing for less than 50K$ in great shape. Larry built his from scratch if you really want to be the real thing build your own like they did. Theywent around the world in a 24 footer for the first 11 years and then 29 1/2 foot the next 13 years. They have done in boats what you have done for rv’s. I think your both a bit snobby and do not really listen to anyone for you are so perfect. i am trying to help you get it right, but as children spill the milk to find out about gravity, buy your big piece of plastic on the wrong side of the us and get it blown away before you start, or get a really good start and read lin and larry pardey and get a great around boat around san pedro that is 100 years old that has gone around the world a few times without anything and design it like lin a larry and you will have a chance at real life adventure safe at sea. I do admire you wanting to do this, or i would just watch you screw up and laugh good luck hope you have the brains to study longer than you think you should. Get a 36 columbia plastic in marina del rey for a yaer or so and learn to sail it before you try and spend a spoiled rotton amount of money on what a sales pitch from those that adjust to your dream to get your money. If you are in my area let me give you a tour on how to do what you are doing. But You don’t seem to really care what i think before when i talked to you.

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  • Never get in a rush to spend your money.

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  • Dennis

    I see your getting plenty of help so I will throw my search in too. You probably have seen this one but you never know..
    http://www.yachtworld.com/boats/2001/Conser-47-2943938/Tampa/FL/United-States#.VuX1Oo-cH_s

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  • I have faith. You’ll find one! 🙂

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  • btw why you are not considering buying in Europe? Catamarans are much more popular over there and you can find few options at a decent price. There is always a way to find someone to have a look at one you like before your arrival to make sure you pre-approve it before traveling that far. I can bring it to US for you after 🙂

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    • Sadly we cannot step foot onto this boat because it’s not documented in the USA 🙁

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  • Robert

    Pronunced , isle-la- maruada . We are lifetime boaters and RV ers . It’s not uncommon to look a year or so for the right boat! I know you want what you want but, the cat market is tiny! Your budget would go very far on a mono hull! Also two hulls is twice the expense to maintain with bottom cleaning, bottom paint, two engines, and the dockage will definitely be higher since you are twice as wide and will typically be charged for two slips or stuck out on a tee dock. Anyway, I’m in Savannah,Ga and am a USCG Captain and am happy to help in any way. ventureswithbob on fb-Twitter-Instagram

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  • JP

    I noticed you commented on the mold in one of the boats. The climate in Florida is such that any in-water boat for sale that’s been shut up for any length of time is going to have a mold problem, and the further down below the waterline you go, the worse it gets. If that’s a deal-killer for you, one suggestion might be to look someplace else than Florida for a boat. I’m partial to the Great Lakes but that’s just me and my home state background, since fresh water is so much less destructive on the mechanics of a boat than salt water. YMMV. Good luck in your search.

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  • Welcome back to the Keys! I have following you for a while and look forward to your continued adventures. I live on Ramrod Key. So you are neighbors for a while. Hope you enjoy your stay! If you are still here for the first weekend of April, our Naval Air Station is having an Air Show featuring the Blue Angels. I would be great if you could join us… But no you can’t get a ride..sorry. Anyway the weather is perfect this time of year, so enjoy the sunsets. By the way Islamorada is pronounced by the locals. I la morada ( the ‘s’ is silent).
    Take care. Tim

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  • What’s the story behind Singa going to jail? 🙂 too much catnip?

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  • Bummer about the boat. You will find the right one. Just stay selective. Also, you should watch Joe VS the Volcano. Enjoy your time in the Keys! Say hi to Sloppy Joe’s for us!

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  • James B Colter

    Just curious, why are you so set on a catamaran? Monohulls are more seaworthy in the long run. I know there are those who would argue against that.

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  • Scot

    Hi guys. Great video. One suggestion about boat shopping; in my experience, the best boats never make it to yachtworld, and frequently don’t get to a broker. They are often snapped up privately before they get advertised widely. We bought and sold our last boat privately based on posts on the Yahoo group Leopard Catamaran Owners Group. There is also a Lagoon Catamaran Owners Group. If you join those and post what you are looking for, you might come up with something good. Also, I sent you an email to your media email address with a suggestion regarding a specific boat that might be great for you. Hope it all works out!

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  • John S.

    Funny thing about boats is that your wants and likes have to balance the weight of your wallet.
    And, at first, it never works. If you can’t adjust the wallet you have to adjust some wants or likes.

    When I went to a big boat show with some buddies my comment was that “Everything I really liked cost over $1 million.” Best response was “John, you know that old saying about getting the boat bug? Well, it’s not a bug, it’s a virus.” (This guy owns 2 boats!)

    I know that you two have the right attitude and, like you say ‘fingers crossed’ you WILL find the Cat you want. It may be in LA or in Holland or Tahiti, but it’s out there. Here’s hoping you find it sooner than later.

    John S.

    P.S. Since you linked to that cool drink maker how about the Nikki colada recipe? (One rum or two?)

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  • Dave

    FYI – http://svdelos.com/ is looking for crew. Maybe try that out first.

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  • Mike Summers

    Go to Marinas and look at boats on the dry. Catching Rays found their lagoon on the dry in some boat yard in the Keys. I’ll keep watching, good luck.
    Mike Summers.

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  • Joe Ski

    I know your looking for a 40 footer but found this one on ebay and thought you might be interested. It has solar and is a 2010 for $155,000.
    http://www.ebay.com/itm/2010-Gemini-105Mc-Catamaran-Sailboat-Loaded-for-Cruising-/201540963861?forcerrptr=true&hash=item2eecc70e15:g:J7MAAOSw–1Wsj3l&item=201540963861

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