Do you keep track?

[cb32863]

Oh hell to the no....... I could total it all up if I wanted to as I have budgeting spreadsheets for each project and what not but, I am thinking that ignorance is bliss in regards to that.

 

[Stu Jackson]

I keep a maintenance receipt log. It lists what, where, and when and the cost. Never tallied. But I refer to when the last time I replaced something.

I do the same, excel spreadsheet with the description, date, source, model #s, cost and remarks. I've had this boat for 18 years and if I need to find another replacement part, I know where to get it. And answer the recurring questions of "Where'd ya get that part?" Many times right here at the sbo store.

Keeping the "inventory spreadsheet" up to date is the same discipline I use in regular and preventive maintenance on the boat.

 

[Johnb]

Since the cost of berthing, haul outs and major items like sails, dodgers etc. totally swamps the minor stuff I don't bother to keep a record of nuts, bolts and pieces of wire. As to keeping records, no need, the big things are burned in my brain.

One thing is for sure - some people are going to spend many times what others spend to get the same experience, This is due to
delusions about what you truly need
willingness to do some DIY.
smart choices about preventative maintenance

For one person the pleasure of working on and/or using the boat is worth the time and money and for others it in not.

 

[capta]

As our boat is our home, a business and transportation, I guess I look at it a bit differently than a recreational sailor. Though I've not lived in a house I would assume the costs of maintaining a boat and a home are comparable.
Regular expenses such as utilities, are probably a bit cheaper on the boat; we average just under $200.00, (water/elec/garbage) a month, as are things like fuel for our Zodiac vs a car. Insurance is definitely higher, but taxes are way less, especially considering I can live waterfront in a place like Charleston, SC on a boat worth 250, whereas a home a few hundred yards away is millions.

 

[Crazy Dave Condon]

Why even worry about the actual cost. Folks just go have fun. It is an investment in pleasure and life for sanity.

 

[uncledom]

I agree with Dave, it's the Sanity Clause.

 

[Johnb]

Though I've not lived in a house I would assume the costs of maintaining a boat and a home are comparable.

Yes for sure - my house was built in 1965 and we have lived in it since 1982. Including, but not limited to, new roof, garage doors and opener, pool resurfacing, pool pumps x 2, furnace and AC, replacement doors and windows, multiple re painting, floor refinishing x 2, water heater, re plumbing, drains, figure on spending plenty. Just like a boat, even if you were handed a brand new one in perfect condition the maintenance clock is ticking......

Insurance is definitely higher, but taxes are way less, especially considering I can live waterfront in a place like Charleston, SC on a boat worth 250, whereas a home a few hundred yards away is millions.

Not if you are in California and cough up $1,500 a year for earthquake insurance alone. With a $20,000 deductible.