We’re Matt and Lucy Claiborne. We’re experienced boat owners (25+ years), living aboard (10+ years), and cruising full-time (8+ years).
We want to share some of the tips and tricks we’ve learned along the way.
On this site, you’ll find articles, courses, and an active community of both experts and novices. The goal here is simple — make boat life easier and more accessible for everyone.
Ultimately, our goal is to create a set of useable articles and courses that make transitioning into boat life as seamless as possible. Whether you’re dreaming of the Great Loop or sailing off to the Caribbean (or farther!), Boat Life Academy was designed to make the process easier.
Why Boat Life Academy?
You’ve seen the same YouTubers we have. Read the same articles, maybe even bought the same books. Individuals, couples, and families selling it all, downsizing, and moving onto a boat. It’s a reinvention of one’s self — and a grand adventure full of sunsets and fun.
Everyone tells you it’s not all sunsets and piña coladas, but how long do most boaters “make it?” In our experience, most boaters move on to something else in two or three years.
The first year aboard, you face one of the toughest and steepest learning curves you’ll ever know. Boat life is different. You’ll have to learn to become a skipper, navigator, engineer, meteorologist, communications specialist, dock handler, planner, scheduler, cook, cleaner, project manager, organizer, mechanic, electrician, and so much more.
This site is designed to make that transition a little easier. Beginning and expert cruisers should be able to learn something here.
Welcome aboard. Let’s go boating! 🛥️ ⛵️ 🚤
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