The Boat Life Knowledge Base
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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…
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Outfitting a New Boat: Things Every Boater Needs
Whether you buy a new or new-to-you boat, your first task is to outfit it. It’s pretty easy to come across lists of the things you MUST have, thanks to the Coast Guard and state authorities. But these lists don’t…
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Boater’s Guide to North Carolina
North Carolina is one of the nation’s boating gems. Its unusual variety of boating conditions makes boating enjoyable, and its boating-friendly culture means you’ll feel welcome in every coastal town. The Tarheel State is home to many charming small towns…
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Boater’s Guide to Maine
Arriving by boat to the coast of Maine for the first time is like landing on an alien planet. At least it was for this Florida boy, who had never been to the state before by land or sea. Everything…
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The Wonderous Omnia Stovetop Oven
I originally published a blog post, “An Ode to My Omnia,” on our travel blog during the first year of our live-aboard, cruising life. The Omnia Stovetop Oven was one of the first things I purchased for boat cooking, and…
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Starlink Alternatives for Boaters, Van-lifers, and RVs
Starlink has rocked the boating world like the transformative technology it is. Boats that cruise the Bahamas or other rural areas have spouted Dishys like fungus. RVs love it, too, because they can boondock anywhere and still be connected for…
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Treats and Goodies We’re Missing From The Bahamas
Before heading to the islands, many cruisers spend a lot of time worrying about provisioning for the Bahamas. They worry they won’t be able to find X, Y, or Z — or that the prices will be too much to…
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Galley Goodness: Bahamian Coconut Bread Loaf
This recipe is inspired by the homemade loaves of bread we get from every small Bahamian settlement. Locals make either plain, sweet white bread or sweet coconut bread — they’re both exceptional, but the coconut bread really blows us away.…
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Galley Tips for Reducing Propane Use on a Boat
As new technologies emerge, things become chic and fashionable in boat outfitting. A recent trend I’ve noticed is boaters ditching their propane galley stoves and ovens in favor of electric appliances. So, is it worth the expense? Can a small…
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Product Review: Our Experience with Coppercoat
Note: We have no affiliation or marketing arrangement with Coppercoat. We paid full price for the product after years of research and had no extra help during the application process. Coppercoat anti-foul coating is a fascinating product that’s been on…
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Making the Ultimate Great Loop Map: Great Loop Route and Alternate Routes
There is a wealth of advice and planning available online about the Great Loop route, but this document has been prepared to help dreamers understand it. It also details all the fantastic side trips and Great Loop alternate routes you…
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