Throughout the year, the Mediterranean has a lot to offer sailors. Fascinating cultural attractions, crystal pure seas, and delectable food are just a few of the highlights. There are always new and intriguing sites to explore when living aboard in the Mediterranean. And, liveaboards are always looking for fresh and inexpensive spots to moor during the winter months. Naturally, you look for sites that are both appealing and intriguing, as well as a vibrant liveaboard community with which to share the experience. So, in this article, I’m going to give you information about living aboard in the Med as well as the costs and the marinas. Keep reading!

General Information about the Med’s Liveaboards

Some people spend the winter on land and only use their boats in the Mediterranean for vacations or during the summer. In other words, they might work during the winter months in order to save money so they can sail during the summer. There are also many retired couples that spend the entire summer island hopping. They do this before returning to land during the cooler months. During the winter season, these seasonal sailors tend to have their boat lifted out of the water and stored on the hard.

Keep in mind that the majority of the liveaboards in the Med have no permanent residence in their home country. They’ve made a full-time commitment to the sea and live a somewhat nomadic life, traveling slowly or quickly from one location to the next. Some go far, even around the world, while others have spent 15 years sailing in the same location. Most liveaboards in the Mediterranean find their ‘home’ marina to call home during the winter months. With severe gusts, torrential rain, freezing temperatures, and choppy waves, the weather makes many liveaboards hesitate. In addition, many areas that appeal to sailors close for the winter.

Because of their remoteness and seclusion, it’s difficult to establish the actual number of current liveaboard families. But, it’s expected that there were 20–30 in the Mediterranean at the start of 2020. As a result of the pandemic’s aftermath, many people have lost their jobs and are unable to support themselves. If traveling is truly what you want to do, then staying afloat requires careful planning… and pandemics aren’t exactly helpful.

Keep in mind that many liveaboards, save money by avoiding marinas during peak season. They do this by generating electricity and water with solar energy, and performing their own maintenance. And, note that maintenance costs are often overlooked. They clean their dishes in the sea and only go ashore to recycle, buy necessities, or go on inland tours and treks.

Winter in the Mediterranean

Storms are common in the Mediterranean winters (one to three per month on average), and 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 remain 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 spots well in advance. Generally, yard spaces are available until the end of September.

Cruisers who want to sail all year should organize their voyages. Like this, they can take shelter in marinas during the worst storms. In the off-season, this is a good deal, although locals and those who have booked a winter deal usually get the best slips. Because not all harbors are protected from all directions, do some research before booking your marina spot. Winter sailors often move east to Crete, Turkey, Cyprus, and Israel in search of dry, pleasant weather. Alternatively, going south of the Med to southern Portugal offers pleasant weather and safe anchorages.

Some cruisers spend the off-season aboard in marinas, flying home on occasion. This is a fun and economical way to get through the winter. Water and electricity are frequently included in a winter marina package. In most marinas, during the winter, the liveaboard life is vibrant. Barbecues, yoga workshops, and other social events and activities are organized by the liveaboard communities.

Liveaboards prepare their boat for the winter within the first few weeks after landing at their chosen marina.
Instead of winterizing or closing down the boat entirely, they shut down sections of it and do a range of duties to ensure a comfortable winter. Most boats, for example, remove their sails, halyards, and sheets (all the ropes). By reducing your sails, you lessen the amount of wind resistance you get, allowing the boat to move less. You also shield the sails from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Furthermore, the ropes all require thorough cleaning with fresh water before storing them for the following season. The ropes that run up the mast and through all the fittings are replaced with little ropes called mousing lines. Simply tie the halyard or sheet (ropes) to the mousing lines and bring them back into place when the new season begins. In terms of winterizing, it’s advisable to winterize your water maker because in case you won’t be using it for the next six months. You can fill up your tanks with a hose anytime you need it, if there’s a steady supply of water from the pier.

>>Also Read: Is It Dangerous to Sail Around the World?

Liveaboard Life Year-Round in the Med

The strongest winds blow across the Mediterranean during the shoulder seasons. The weather is frequently unpredictable, with high gusts interspersed with gentle breezes and choppy waters. In April and May, 40-60 knot storms might occur in the Balearic Islands, Sardinia, and Sicily. Note that several large storms slammed the Balearics between August and November 2019, causing flooding and extensive damage. When the weather is inclement, though, you can still sail securely in the spring and autumn by sticking within close proximity of marinas. This approach requires a lot of patience because you’ll be waiting out storms and weather windows are not enough.

However, if you want to continue sailing and explore the shoreline you will find quiet anchorages, calm villages, and low mooring rates. As you may know, the Mediterranean becomes increasingly congested as summer approaches. There are many local motorboats, charter fleets, and cruising yachts taking advantage of the warm, calm weather. Because marina costs are rising and spaces are hard to come by, it’s advisable to stick to the many free anchorages available. July and August are the busiest months. Popular harbors are so full of people that skippers frequently argue with their neighbors about being too near.

If you want to avoid the worst of the crowds, there are a few things you can do. For instance, by the end of June, you should be in less-traveled areas. Avoid anchoring near charter bases and popular tourist destinations such as Shipwreck Beach on Zakynthos and Port de Soller on Mallorca. Mainland Spain and France, south Sardinia, Tunisia, the northern Aegean, the Peloponnese, and Turkey are some of the more tranquil locations.

Also Read:
>>Best Marinas in Spain
>>Best Marinas in Europe

Popular Liveaboard Sailing Destinations in the Med

Licata and Marina di Ragusa are popular destinations for liveaboards in Sicily. The airport in Catania is two hours away. You can sail to Greece and Turkey in the spring, or Sardinia and the Balearic Islands in the summer. Malta is located 50 miles south of Sicily. If you’re looking for peace and quiet there’s a small liveaboard community in Valletta. The berth costs are expensive, but the old city is beautiful and the airport is close by.

Note that liveaboards are quite common throughout the Mediterranean. Valencia and Barcelona in mainland Spain are two of the most popular Mediterranean wintering destinations, with many airports nearby. Cartagena is also a lovely city with a vibrant winter community. You may go to the Balearic Islands, France, and Corsica from there.

Lefkas, Preveza, and Crete are all nice possibilities in Greece. But, flights are not so many during the low season. In the spring, you can cruise to Croatia, visit the Greek Islands, or travel to Turkey. Finike, Marmaris, and Bodrum are prominent destinations for liveaboards in Turkey. After the winter, you have the option of continuing your cruise into Turkey or heading west. Most of the marinas mentioned, as well as their related yards, offer boat repairs and maintenance. Italy and Malta are, on average, more expensive in terms of yard fees and labor. You can find affordable yard deals in Crotone (Italy), Kilada (Peloponnese), and Preveza.

Also Read:
>>Corsica Sailing Trip Itinerary
>>Portugal Sailing Trip Itinerary
>>Best Deep Sea Fishing Destinations in Europe

Costs of Living Aboard in the Mediterranean

It’s acceptable to take the boat out for a sail every now and then, but most liveaboards in the Mediterranean dock for the winter. From October through April, several marinas offer a special rate. 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 a 56 ft boat and include the entire six months, but no water or power. Because the price is depending on the length of the boat, smaller vessels pay a lot less. There are also a lot of Americans who spend the winter in Algeria or Tunisia, for example, because the EU wouldn’t let them stay in Europe for more than 3 – 6 months at a time.

Mainland Spain and France, south Sardinia, Tunisia, the northern Aegean, the Peloponnese, and Turkey are some of the less touristic locations. The prices of marinas in these areas are also generally lower. Avoid northern Sardinia, the Amalfi Coast, Liguria, Malta, and Palma de Mallorca if you don’t want to pay high marina fees. Sign up for Ports IB, the local, state-run marina network, for inexpensive berths in the Balearics. While there is a cruising fee (€33 per month up to 40ft) in Greece, local quays are inexpensive or free.

Best Liveaboard Marinas in the Mediterranean

• Kemer Marina, Antalya, Turkey: Kemer Marina, also known as Port of Kemer, is located on the Turkish coast in the city of Kemer, which is located at the foot of the Taurus Mountains in a beautiful environment. Because it is part of the Antalya region, it receives a considerable number of tourists each year. The Blue Coast, on Turkey’s south coast, is breathtaking. Along the Lycian Way, there are several scenic mountains and pine-clad coves, as well as little rural settlements and stunning treks. The weather in Kemer Marina, in the Bay of Antalya, is pleasant in both the winter and summer. The marina is also well protected. The best news for a budget liveaboard in Turkey is that marina fees were only two-thirds of what they are in certain Greek marinas.
• Agios Nikolaos, Crete, Greece: Very nice and inviting city, close to Heraklion Airport, well-sheltered, inexpensive, and with a winter temperature of around 20°C. Note that throughout the year, people go swimming. The Marina of Agios Nikolaos is well protected in all weather circumstances. It is also designed to European standards, and can accommodate up to 255 vessels all year. The Marina of Agios Nikolaos is located in the town’s heart, providing easy access to the town’s center, the major ancient monuments, and other points of interest.
• Lefkas Marina, Ionian Islands, Greece: The marina is located on the east side of Lefkada, within the municipal limits and adjacent to the island’s main port. The marina has a total capacity of 620 boats up to 45 meters long with a maximum draft of 4,5 meters. Wintering facilities for roughly 280 boats are also available. A full range of technical services, including power and water supply, a travel lift, and repair facilities, are available at the marina.
• Yacht Port, Cartagena, Spain: Cartagena is a three-thousand-year-old city with significant cultural and visual significance. Moorings for nearly any sort of vessel, small or large, are available for purchase or rental, with finger pontoons for added convenience and a safer berth. With safe moorings and shelter, it is undoubtedly the safest port in the Mediterranean Sea, protected by neighboring hills and the La Curra and Navidad breakwaters. Excellent facilities, helpful personnel, and a wonderful community. It is also worthwhile to see the town. Except in severe Southerly seas, it’s a well-protected marina. The costs are really affordable. And, in the marina, there are many liveaboards.
• Porto delle Grazie, Marina di Roccella: Roccella and its port have long been one of the best Mediterranean destinations. The liveaboard community is small but thriving. The marina lacks winter liveaboards, and the personnel is incredibly nice and helpful.The marina isn’t the most attractive in the area, but it offers excellent value for money. Despite the price increase, it is still the cheapest in Italy. Roccella is an excellent wintering spot. Non-EU travelers needing to exit the EU temporarily will find Albania to be inexpensive, safe, and conveniently located on the way to or from Greece or the Adriatic. The marina in Roccella Ionica is well-protected, with a professional and pleasant staff and excellent winter rates and free bikes to stroll around.
• Marina di Portofino, Italy: This marina is really popular and is in the midst of a natural promontory nearby the inlet of Portofino Bay. The marina extends to the village’s little square. It’s one of the Mediterranean’s most popular marinas. The marina is surrounded by beautiful mountain views and a natural cove. It’s in the heart of Portofino hamlet, which is regarded as one of Italy’s top dolce vita destinations. The marina offers 14 mooring spots for sailboats and megayachts, as well as water, fuel, and electricity.
• Marina di San Lorenzo, Imperia, Italy: San Lorenzo al Mare Marina is located southwest of Genoa, on the Ligurian coast. It’s a quiet, beautiful community for individuals wishing to unwind and avoid congested areas. The marina includes spaces for yachts up to 40 meters long and provides 24-hour mooring assistance. Furthermore, all basic services and conveniences are available, as well as pleasant staff that will greet you upon arrival. This resort on the Italian Riviera is recommended for retirees seeking a beautiful location and a relaxing atmosphere.
• Marina Kornati, Biograd na Moru, Croatia: Marina Kornati is located near the cities of Zadar and Sibenik and is ideal for nature lovers. This is due to your proximity to the Krka and Kornati National Parks, as well as the Vransko Lake and the Telascica Nature Park. The Kornati marina is one of North Dalmatia’s largest yacht clubs. Finally, the marina boasts 750 berths, top-notch services, and is certified as an environmentally friendly marina. It is also a great place to liveaboard but you should book your spot well in advance.
• D-Marin Dalmacija, Sukosan, Croatia: The marina is located in the heart of Sukosan and provides access to the Sibenik archipelago as well as the city of Zadar. Sukosan is isolated from the Zadar Strait by the islands of Ugljan and Pasman. While sailing through the Zadar Strait, keep in mind that you may face strong sea currents and jugo. The marina offers 1200 wet berths and 300 dry berths for boats up to 40 meters long, including superyachts up to 80 meters long. The depth at the entrance runs from 5 to 8 meters, while it varies from 3 to 8 meters in the central section of the bay.
• Lagos Marina, Portugal: The Lagos Marina has also won numerous honors for its great facilities and high-quality services. It is located on the banks of the Bensafrim River in Lagos. Don’t forget to take a trip through the city’s old center, view the attractions, and sample some traditional Portuguese cuisine. The marina offers 462 mooring spots, is well-protected, and can give medical aid if necessary. The city of Lagos is well worth a visit because you can find anything you need. This is the place to go if you want to relax, view nature or go sightseeing, go on city excursions, or even go mountaineering! Keep in mind that you should contact the marina before going there as the spots are limited.

Also Read:
>>Best Marinas in Spain
>>Best Marinas in Europe
>>Best Marinas in Greece
>>Best Marinas in the World

Top Tips for Living Aboard in the Med

• Always check the weather forecast, have a seaworthy vessel, and be equipped with cold and hot weather gear. Keep in mind that marinas offer winter discounts that typically last six to eight months. So, choosing the proper marina is critical if you expect to live aboard full-time.
• Check the weather records to see which direction the winter storms normally come from. And check if the marina has adequate protection from that direction.
• Always check what kind of services every marina has to offer and their related yard by doing some research.
• Can you stay in a specific country for more than three months without a visa? Is it possible to apply for a temporary residency permit? If you remain longer than three months, do you have to pay tax on your boat?
• It’s important to check the area around the marina of your choice. Do you prefer a quiet area or a big city? What amenities you prefer to have nearby? And, if you need to fly home frequently, choose a marina that is close to a major airport and has adequate transportation connections.
• Do you want to spend a lot of time with other liveaboards and participate in social events? Would you rather spend your days relaxing in a quiet marina with a few friendly neighbors?
• Always request and compare deal quotes well in advance. What does the price include? Some packages include free water and electricity. In the spring, marinas with a lot of fouling frequently provide a free lift and pressure cleaning.
• Liveaboards typically keep their boat in the water during the winter. They only haul it out for the necessary maintenance and repairs out of the sea. The haul needs new antifouling every year and anodes must be replaced. Also, a thorough inspection of the shaft, rudder, and prop is essential. During out-of-water labor, a boater may fly home to meet relatives, locate a motel, or stay on the boat and board using a ladder.

Living on a Boat in the Mediterranean – The Bottom Line

As you might think, choosing to live a full-time liveaboard lifestyle means understanding that expenses must be strictly handled. As a result, you don’t always get to winter where you want to, simply due to the exorbitant berthing rates imposed by several marinas around the Mediterranean. The Mediterranean is a great place to liveaboard. Moreover, there are numerous marinas, amenities, and a great environment to live in. Every day, you fall deeper and deeper in love with the people and the environment around you. Overall, it is fantastic to live on a boat in the Mediterranean!