Living aboard a sailboat is for many the dream of their lives. Others choose to liveaboard for a specific period of time and then head to another country. In any case, you want to know more information about the liveaboard life in Europe. As you may know, the liveaboard lifestyle can appeal to a wide range of people, both boaters and non-boaters. Europe, and particularly the Mediterranean, attracts many sailors and has some of the most well-equipped marinas in the world. In addition to that, there are many affordable and beautiful places to live in as well as rich cultures and lifestyles. If you’re interested in this topic, keep reading in order to know more information about liveaboard life in Europe!

Here Are Some of the Best Places to Liveaboard in Europe

Major European Seas and Coasts

There are 5 major seas surrounding the continent. These are the Mediterranean, the Black Sea, the Atlantic, the Arctic Ocean, and the Baltic Sea. All these are separated into smaller gulfs and bays. With a total area of 2.5 million sq. ft., it is one of the largest seas; the Mediterranean, and borders to the north with Europe, to the south by Africa, and to the east by Asia. The narrow Strait of Gibraltar connects the sea to the Atlantic Ocean in the west. Greece, Spain, Italy, France, Croatia, Algeria, are some of the main countries along the Mediterranean.

The Black Sea is one of the Atlantic Ocean’s marginal seas, located between the continents of Europe and Asia. Russia, Ukraine, Romania, Georgia, Bulgaria, and Turkey all have coastlines on the Black Sea. The Black Sea is fed by several rivers, including the Danube, Dniester, Don, Dnieper, Rioni, Southern Bug, and others. Also, the sea is home to a variety of islands, including Dzharylhach Island, Nova Zemlia, St. Ivan, St. Cyricus, Bird Island, and others.

The Baltic Sea is one of the Atlantic Ocean’s peripheral seas, covering 377,000 square kilometers. Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Germany, Denmark, and Russia’s Kaliningrad region all share the Baltic Sea’s 8,000-kilometer shoreline. Note that there are over 250 rivers and tiny streams flowing into the Baltic Sea. The Baltic Sea contains some notable islands such as Gotland, Saaremaa, Oland, Lolland, and others.

The Adriatic Sea is a semi-enclosed body of water that separates the eastern section of the Italian Peninsula from the Balkan Peninsula. It is the northernmost extension of the Mediterranean Sea. The Apennine Mountains, Dinaric Alps, and other nearby mountain ranges surround the Adriatic Sea. Italy, Croatia, Albania, Montenegro, Slovenia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina are some of the key countries bordering the Adriatic Sea. Note that the eastern Croatian coast of the Adriatic Sea has more than 1,300 islands.

The Aegean Sea, which lies between Anatolia and the Balkan peninsulas, is the Mediterranean’s fourth-biggest marginal sea. Numerous islands and islets dot the Aegean Sea, which divides into seven primary groups. These are the Cyclades, Crete, Dodecanese, North Aegean Islands, Saronic, Sporades, and West Aegean Islands.

Which European Countries are the Best for Living Aboard your Boat?

As you might think, choosing to live a full-time liveaboard lifestyle means understanding that you must strictly handle your expenses. As a result, you won’t always get to winter where you want to, simply due to the exorbitant berthing rates imposed by several marinas around Europe. So, there are two major considerations to keep in mind when choosing the European country to liveaboard; weather and costs.

Obviously, the weather in Northern Europe isn’t that pleasant as it is in the Meditteranean. But, depending on the country, mooring rates are far more expensive in the Med, especially during the summer season. Let’s take the example of living on your boat in the Baltic Sea. It depends where you are in the Baltic and how cold the winter can get. Because the Baltic is rather fresh (as opposed to salt), it will freeze sooner. As a result, the further east you go, the colder it becomes.

The Baltic Sea ice conditions vary greatly in different sections of the Baltic. This is because there’s ice lingering for more than half a year in the far north (Bothnian Bay). Ice only forms in the southern Baltic Sea during particularly harsh winters. Freezing in the Baltic begins around the middle of November on the northern coast of the Gulf of Bothnia. And, it reaches the open seas of Bothnian Bay in early January. The basin south of it, the Bothnian Sea, freezes on average in late February. Late January is when the Gulf of Finland and the Gulf of Riga usually ice.

Of course, it is possible to sail along the Norwegian coast and then head either to Denmark, Netherlands, or the UK. There are few liveaboard marinas, especially in Denmark, but long-term contracts for liveaboards are always possible. In the UK, Edinburgh is a common choice for liveaboards and the Hague for the Netherlands. But, keep in mind that wintering there will be a risk for your boat if you don’t choose a well-sheltered marina.

As a matter of fact, most sailors prefer to liveaboard in the Med than in Northern Europe. And, it is reasonable because the weather is less cold and the seas don’t freeze. In addition, some southern countries are less expensive to live in than others. These include Greece, Turkey, Croatia, and Portugal. In these countries, you can find affordable long-term slips, well-protected marinas, friendly people, and liveaboard communities. Depending on where you choose to stay the overall monthly expenses for the boat won’t exceed 500€, apart from your own expenses. On the other hand, countries like France and Spain, which are amazing options for living aboard your boat tend to be more expensive in terms of the general cost of living but for the mooring rates as well.

Now, let’s check in detail two of the main preferable liveaboard destinations in Europe; Italy and Greece!

Liveaboard Life in Italy

Italy is one of the most charming countries in Europe. It provides great sailing as well as many well-equipped and secure marinas. The amount of wind experienced by sailors varies substantially depending on the location and time of year. For instance, the islands of Sardinia and Sicily, in comparison to the Bay of Naples and the Riviera, receive greater wind. However, there is significantly less throughout the summer than at other times of the year. Here, more than anywhere else in the Mediterranean, boats need to use their motor. On the east coast, the main sailing areas are the regions of Veneto, Marche, Abruzzo, Apulia, and Calabria.

On the west coast, the main sailing areas are the regions of Liguria, Tuscany, Lazio, and Campania. There are of course the most popular sailing destinations in Italy; Sicily and Sardinia. Keep in mind that most parts of Italy get full of people during the peak season. Subsequently, the prices in most marinas rise. So, it is advisable to find the appropriate marina according to your needs as well as a long-term contract.

Weather in Italy

The weather in Italy is extremely varied, and it may be split into various sailing zones. The regions are divided mostly by terrain, and each has its own set of prevailing winds. The Tramontana winter wind, which descends from the Alps, blows throughout northern Italy. Before morning, the wind is at its greatest. In the summer, the Scirocco wind comes from the south, bringing humid temperatures and red dust from the Sahara. The Libeccio, which blows from the south-west, affects Sardinia and the Tuscan coast, while the Maestrale, which blows from the north-west, affects Sardinia’s west coast. The Bora wind, which is quite strong, affects the northern Adriatic.

Keep in mind that at the peak of the sailing season, July and August, there is not too much wind. From the beginning of May through the end of October, the general sailing season in Italy runs. July and August are the busiest months, while temperatures are high and there are times when there is little wind. During this time of year, the bays can become quite congested, and moorings are normally quite expensive. From the end of May to the end of October, the sea temperatures in Italy are normally warm enough for swimming. So, it’s probably best to avoid the peak season and crowds by sailing in June or September. Note that the weather conditions depending on the region of Italy you are in. Lastly, each region has its own distinct climate and different winds.

Liveaboard Marinas in Italy

• Marina Cala de’ Medici, Castiglioncello, Tuscany: It is also known as Porto Cala de Medici and is located in the Rosignano Solvay district of the Rosignano Marittimo municipality. This is a portion of the Livorno province and the Tuscany region in central Italy. On this part of the shore, you’ll find the most beautiful white beaches, also known as spiagge bianche. The sea’s ultramarine colors enchant visitors from all over the world who can’t get enough of the sun, leisure activities, and water sports. Rosignano Marittimo is a fantastic place for individuals who appreciate spending hours gazing at stunning vistas and taking boat cruises, long walks, and sightseeing tours to uncover the region’s natural treasures. The marina offers long-term stay for the winter season but you should contact well in advance.
• Marina di San Lorenzo, Liguria: On the Ligurian coast, the marina of San Lorenzo al Mare is located just southwest of Genoa. It’s a small and picturesque village for those looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of the big cities. The marina has berths for boats up to 30 meters and provides mooring assistance 24h/7. Moreover, all basic services and amenities are provided as well as friendly personnel and affordable prices for long-term stays.
• Marina di Santa Marinella, Roma, Lazio: Marina di Santa Marinella is a contemporary port with a dock that evokes historical atmospheres. A natural harbour that has been used since the Etruscan settlements is wonderfully incorporated into the urban surroundings and history of Santa Marinella. The marina is situated along a stretch of coastline. There are numerous beaches and natural coves there, one of the most notable of which is Banzai Beach, located south of the port. The harbor sits in the middle of Santa Marinella’s city center, which is known as the “Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea” and is a popular beach destination near Rome. The marina offers long-term mooring, it is well-sheltered from the winds, and it’s perfect for those looking for tranquility.
• Porto di Portoferraio, Elba Island: This area, which is part of the Livorno province and the Tuscany region, provides visitors with unique panoramas that display rocky waterfronts and intriguing geological structures. Beaches such as the Spiaggia di Sansone, the Spiaggia di Capo Bianco, and others are among the island’s principal attractions. This is an ancient territory where visitors can see the Villa Romana delle Grotte, the Parco Minerario dell’Isola d’Elba, the Villa Romana, and other historic sights. Hikers will find a variety of interesting and challenging trails that will take them through beautiful natural landscapes. The marina offers long-term contracts but keep in mind that you should contact them well in advance to book your slip.
• Marina di Portisco, Sardinia: Marina di Portisco is located in Olbia, a lovely city. This marina has some of the greatest facilities on the island, and their success is due in part to their friendly and competent employees. Marina di Portisco is located in a strategic location in the Mediterranean, allowing for easy access to the remainder of the island as well as other more remote areas. Aside from its fantastic location, the marina benefits from a beautiful mountain backdrop and a city rich in historic attractions.
• Marina di Ragusa, Sicily: Marina di Ragusa is the most well-known marina for liveaboards. It has a friendly, small liveaboard community and very hospitable residents. Moorings are safe, secure, and sheltered. The pontoon and lazy-lines are in excellent condition. Within the harbor, there is very little surge, and the bats only move when the wind is really blowing. Clean modern restrooms with hot showers, cafés, restaurant, office/services, laundry, gym, chandlery, and shops are among the excellent amenities.

Note that the average monthly cost for a long-term slip in most marinas fluctuates around 300-400€ during the winter and 450-650€ during the summer. These prices are subjected to regular changes so you should contact the marina of your preference for more information.

Liveaboard Life in Greece

Greece is a beautiful country surrounded by the Med and dotted with islands in the Aegean and Ionian Seas. The country is preferred by many sailors that choose the liveaboard life. This is because the costs are low, life is pleasant as well as the weather. Of course, during the peak season, the costs tend to get really high. But, if you do some research and plan well ahead you will find the marina and area you’re looking for. Walking along the quay of practically any Greek coastal town will almost certainly reveal a number of sailing boats anchored there. Most of them are likely to be owned by locals and used seldom, although one or two will be live-aboard boats. Some liveaboard boats are only used during the summer months, with their owners returning to their home country for the winter, but many serve as their primary residence.

During the summer, you’ll be out sailing, anchoring in secluded bays, mooring to the quays of tiny towns, etc. In general, you will be enjoying the freedom to go and stay wherever you like. There are approximately 6,000 Greek islands to visit if you prefer solitude and freedom; yet, only about 250 of them are inhabited. If you prefer the companionship of others, however, there are numerous popular anchorages and ports where you can meet new people and make new acquaintances. It is feasible to sail in Greece during the winter months. And, some people do it. However, the weather is colder, stormier, and less dependable, and most of the smaller coastal villages have closed down.

Weather in Greece

The waters of Greece are known for being windy. It’s unlikely that there will be calm waters for several days in a row. The etesians, a typical summer breeze that acquires its peak power in and around the Cyclades, are well-known among sailors. In July and August, the north wind is fiercest, but it can also blow in June and September. It’s fairly uncommon for etesian winds to reach gale force and linger for several days. Note that the wind is slightly weaker in North Greece and the Dodecanese. Strong winds from the south can blow in the spring, autumn, and winter. The Ionian Sea has a very different climate, which is dominated by thermal breezes.

Storms are common in the Mediterranean winters (one to three per month on average). In addition, the weather varies greatly between countries. The Ionian Islands of Greece, for example, are damp and cold, but mainland Spain is temperate and sunny. The low season usually lasts from October through April. In the winter, full-time liveaboards have three options: get a six-month marina contract, tow the boat out, or continue cruising. Most cruisers travel home for the winter, leaving their boat in a protected berth or on the hard. As a result, you must reserve winter berths well in advance. Generally, yard spaces are available until the end of September.

Liveaboard Marinas in Greece

• Agios Nikolaos Marina, Crete: The most popular marina for sailing cruisers in Crete is Agios Nikolaos Marina. Many cruisers choose to spend their liveaboard life there. One of the largest tourist ports serving vessels in the SE (Southern Eastern) Aegean is located in the middle of the village of Agios Nikolaos, allowing easy access to the center of town. It has 255 berths on both fixed and floating pontoons, as well as dry docking capabilities for roughly 165 boats. The Marina has everything a sailor needs for a pleasant short or long stay, as well as a safe environment for the boats.
• Messolonghi Marina, Aetolia-Acarnania: On the port side of the Gulf of Patra, travelling east, this perfect location is located just inside the entrance. You’ll arrive to the town quay via a buoyed canal that’s been dug to a depth of at least 6m and is nearly two miles long. It’s the ideal haven from the strong winds that might blow east/west along the gulf. The marina provides all necessary facilities for liveaboards and has affordable prices for long-term stays. The larger food stores on the outside are only a 10-minute cycling ride or a 30-minute walk from the marina. The Ionian, the Corinth Canal, and the Peloponnese are all within easy access due to its location right inside the Gulf of Patra. So, if you winter there you will have numerous routes to choose from when the sailing season begins.
• Leros Marina, Dodecanese Islands: It was the first marina and onshore storage facility in Greek waters in the South East Aegean. Leros is a Dodecanese island that makes for a fantastic sailing location. The Marina is backed by a 50-meter cliff that provides protection from the Sirocco, which can be rather strong at times. A long, curved harbor wall provides total protection for the vessels on the water. Floating pontoons with berths for 220 boats and ashore storage for up to 600 vessels are available. Leros Marina has the Blue Flag and has a strict environmental policy. It is the perfect location for those that want a calm liveaboard life.
• Marina Delta Kallithea, Athens: Located nearby the center of Athens this marina is the perfect choice for those that don’t want remote places and don’t want to totally abandon the city’s way of living. Offers for long-term moorings are always available but you should contact the marina for more information.

>>Also Read: Living on a Boat in the Mediterranean – Best Liveaboard Marinas, Costs and Tips

Best Places to Live on a Boat in Europe – The Bottom Line

From October through April, several marinas in the Med offer a special rate for liveaboards. So far, Greece and Turkey appear to be the cheapest at around €2,500 per person, Sicily at €3,200 per person, Spain at around €5,000 per person, and Malta at €9,000 per person. These fees are for 55 feet sailboat and include the 7 months period. Because the price is depending on the length of the boat, smaller vessels pay a lot less. Liveaboards typically keep their boat in the water for the bulk of the winter. They only haul it out for necessary out-of-water maintenance. Apparently, you’re not truly in the nation you’re in while you’re in a marina. There are always Brits, Americans, Kiwis, and other nationalities around you. And, the host country wants you there because you’re spending money to support local businesses. So, it’s a win-win situation for everyone!

If you decide to experience the liveaboard life in Europe you basically carry your own house with you, and you have access to all kinds of services. However, this depends upon your preferences and in which country you want to liveaboard. For instance, living on a boat in Norway or Denmark in comparison with living on a boat in Greece or Turkey is far more expensive and the weather isn’t that pleasant as it is in the Med. So, it depends totally on your needs and preferences.

Lastly, there’s no perfect country to liveaboard in Europe. Most sailors prefer to liveaboard in Turkey, Greece, Croatia, and the south of Italy. This is because of the low costs, hospitable people, and charming locations. Others prefer the South of France or the Balearic Islands because they’re not on a budget and prefer to be nearby towns and the amenities they provide. But, according to many sailors’ opinions, the best countries to liveaboard in Europe in terms of costs, weather, way of living, boat repairs and maintenance, locals, and facilities, are Greece, Turkey, Italy, and Spain. Whatever you choose, European countries have a lot to offer for liveaboards. And, there’s no way you will not find what you’re looking for if you do your research and book your slip well in advance!