03-11-2013, 04:31 PM
I have seen 'project boats' on CL- in the ad they mention using as ohana...having owned & stored both on our mainland property for years here is a short list of downsides & pluses that I can think of:
Boat Downside: most are much more cramped (lower headroom & the 'pointy end' thing- usually only good for a 'v berth', usually micro galley & head areas, most have drainholes - if plugged they can fill up - if opened, bugs happen, expense of repairs, engine in-board or out-board each has different issues to deal with in storage, trailer maintenance & potential 'rocking the boat' on the rails
Boat Pluses: trailerable, can use after building for pleasure, should be water proof if in good condition, usually made with water resistant materials throughout, head clean-out facilities at most harbors, not as obvious 'non-conforming' living arrangement on property
RV Downside: may not hold up well in climate here (carpet & MDF are used in many & insulation can harbor "guest pests"), no RV dump station on island (have to direct dump - no pumping to assist - be VERY careful with what goes into that tank - clogs on direct dumps can be a bear!), obvious 'non-conforming' living arrangement on property, if it has engine, need to account for storage maintenance on engine, after building - then what?
RV Pluses: one unit to deal with (do not have to have trailer & boat) more normal living space - rectangular w/ higher ceilings, usually much more storage area, much more window space, 'normal' doorway
Boat Downside: most are much more cramped (lower headroom & the 'pointy end' thing- usually only good for a 'v berth', usually micro galley & head areas, most have drainholes - if plugged they can fill up - if opened, bugs happen, expense of repairs, engine in-board or out-board each has different issues to deal with in storage, trailer maintenance & potential 'rocking the boat' on the rails
Boat Pluses: trailerable, can use after building for pleasure, should be water proof if in good condition, usually made with water resistant materials throughout, head clean-out facilities at most harbors, not as obvious 'non-conforming' living arrangement on property
RV Downside: may not hold up well in climate here (carpet & MDF are used in many & insulation can harbor "guest pests"), no RV dump station on island (have to direct dump - no pumping to assist - be VERY careful with what goes into that tank - clogs on direct dumps can be a bear!), obvious 'non-conforming' living arrangement on property, if it has engine, need to account for storage maintenance on engine, after building - then what?
RV Pluses: one unit to deal with (do not have to have trailer & boat) more normal living space - rectangular w/ higher ceilings, usually much more storage area, much more window space, 'normal' doorway