Reflecting on Our Winter Living Aboard Blue Eden: Changes and Lessons Learned for a Cozy and Functional Experience

Living aboard our beloved sailboat Blue Eden has been a journey like no other, filled with unique experiences that have shaped our lives in profound ways. Each season brings its own set of joys and challenges, creating a rhythm that is both exhilarating and demanding. This past winter was no exception, presenting us with a series of hurdles that tested our resilience and adaptability. However, through these challenges, we have gained invaluable insights into making life afloat not only bearable but truly enjoyable and comfortable. Winter aboard a sailboat requires careful planning and a proactive approach to tackle the cold and unpredictable weather, and we have learned this firsthand. After reflecting on our experiences during this chilly season, we are excited to share the steps we've taken to enhance our winter living aboard Blue Eden, ensuring that our floating home remains a sanctuary of warmth and comfort even in the coldest of months. From optimizing our heating systems to creating cozy nooks for relaxation, we have embraced a variety of strategies that have transformed our winter experience into something more manageable and enjoyable. Additionally, we have discovered the importance of community and connection with fellow sailors, which has added a layer of joy to our winter months. We look forward to detailing these improvements and sharing the lessons learned along the way, hoping to inspire others who may be considering a life on the water during the winter season.

Tips for Living Aboard a Sailboat During the Winter

• Optimize Heating Systems: Invest in a reliable heating system such as a diesel heater or electric space heaters to ensure consistent warmth. Insulate the cabin to retain heat efficiently.

• Insulate Windows and Hatches: Use thermal curtains or window film to reduce heat loss through windows and hatches. This can significantly improve the warmth inside the boat.

• Layer Up: Wear multiple layers of clothing to stay warm. Thermal undergarments, wool sweaters, and waterproof outer layers are essential.

• Seal Drafts: Identify and seal any drafts around doors, hatches, and other openings to prevent cold air from entering the cabin.

• Use Dehumidifiers: Combat condensation and dampness by using dehumidifiers or moisture absorbers to keep the interior dry.

• Create Cozy Nooks: Designate areas for relaxation with warm blankets, cushions, and soft lighting to create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

• Plan for Weather: Stay informed about weather forecasts and plan your projects accordingly to avoid severe conditions.

• Maintain a Routine: Establish a daily routine to keep active and engaged, which helps in managing the isolation and shorter daylight hours.

• Stock Up on Supplies: Ensure you have ample food, water, and essential supplies to last through any unexpected weather-related delays.

• Connect with the Community: Engage with fellow sailors and local communities for support, advice, and social interaction, which can enhance the winter living experience.

The Decision to Wrap Our Boat for Winter Living Aboard on Blue Eden

Wrapping a boat for winter is a crucial step in maintaining its condition and ensuring comfort during the colder months. Here are some tips for effectively wrapping your boat, adding structure, and securing tarps:

Tips for Wrapping a Boat

• Choose the Right Material: Select a high-quality shrink wrap or tarp that is durable and weather-resistant to provide optimal protection against winter elements.

• Clean the Boat: Before wrapping, thoroughly clean the boat's exterior to prevent dirt and debris from being trapped under the wrap, which can cause damage.

• Inspect and Repair: Check for any existing damage or leaks and repair them prior to wrapping to prevent further deterioration during the winter.

Adding Structure

• Frame Support: Use a framework made of wood, metal, or PVC to create a tent-like structure over the boat. This helps the wrap maintain its shape and prevents sagging.

• Ventilation: Incorporate vents into the structure to allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew.

• Reinforce Corners: Pay special attention to corners and edges, reinforcing them with extra material to prevent tears and wear.

Securing Tarps

• Tight Fit: Ensure the tarp is tightly secured to prevent wind from getting underneath and causing it to become loose or damaged.

• Use Straps and Ties: Utilize strong ropes, bungee cords, or ratchet straps to hold the tarp in place. Make sure they are secure and evenly distributed.

• Anchor Points: Attach the tarp to secure anchor points on the boat or trailer to prevent shifting during harsh weather conditions.

By following these tips, you can effectively protect your boat from the harsh winter elements, ensuring it remains in good condition and ready for use when the warmer months return.

The wrap expanded our living area and provided insulation against the cold and wind. With interior temperatures staying about ten degrees warmer than last winter, we reveled in a cozy environment with reduced drafts and enhanced heat retention.

Blue Eden’s spot on the dock of Sarnia in 2023 left un-wrapped.

Getting Area Rugs for Comfort and Warmth

A home truly feels complete with the right touches, and one element that transformed our living experience this winter was adding area rugs. Last year, bare floors made the boat feel cold and unwelcoming.

This year, we visited local shops and selected area rugs that matched our style and were durable enough for marine conditions. The difference has been significant; the rugs not only provided warmth underfoot but also enhanced the aesthetic of our space.

Additionally, the rugs helped reduce noise and offered insulation against the chill. Each evening became more enjoyable as we cozied up with hot drinks and good books, thanks in part to the snug comfort the rugs provided.

Always Checking the Propane

To improve our winter living experience, we reevaluated our approach to safety concerning propane use. Early in last season, we quickly learned how vital it is to check propane levels before installing a newly-filled tank. An attendant over filled our tank the previous year, resulting in a fireball aboard the boat. Luckily I was alert and noticed it at the first sign of trouble, allowing the tank to be put out quickly before anything destructive happened. Which brings me to my next tip: alertness. Fuel heaters or electric space heaters, propane for stoves, etc., keep alert checking them daily and before each use and never leave a heater unattended. Just by being alert you can keep most problems at bay, ensuring everything is in good working order before starting any cooking or heating, especially if the tank was recently refilled.

Engage in Meaningful Activities Aboard This Winter

Winter on Blue Eden is a chance to enrich our experience with fulfilling activities, from creative projects and skill development to collaborations that reflect your passions.

Creative Projects

• Art and Craft: Explore painting or crafting in the tranquil winter setting.

• Writing: Start a journal or novel, inspired by the serene sea. Like this blog now.

• Photography: Capture winter landscapes and wildlife.

Skill Development

• Learn a New Instrument: Master an instrument, it’s a fulfilling way to spend winter months aboard.

• Culinary Exploration: Try new recipes with seasonal ingredients.

• Language Learning: Use online resources to learn a new language.

• Learn a New Boat Skill: expanding your skills is a great way to bring confidence. Need to solder on a next project? Get some scraps and teach yourself. You’ll feel great learning new skills that you can now use to make repairs.

Collaborative Endeavors

• Community Events: Check out the local venues, markets and festivals. Look online for events happening in your area. Go out and explore. Why hide in your boat all day?

• Meet People: Talk to people who stop by, be friendly and a good neighbour and you will love the new friends you will meet. Talk to people, I love finding out what makes people special

• Have a weekly dinner night with other liveaboards. This is a great way to meet fellow sailors in your area, making friends is a wonderful way to spend some time by socializing. Last winter we weren’t social, often busy working on the boat, that was our biggest regret.

  
  

These activities enhance well-being, improve mental health, and foster community. They also build skills, encourage learning, and provide structure, helping you focus on what matters most.

In conclusion, engaging in meaningful activities aboard Blue Eden this winter enriches life and promotes mental and emotional well-being for us, leading to a more purposeful and happy existence.

New Toys and Enrichment for Our Cats and Bunnies

Living aboard also involves taking care of our furry companions. During our last winter on Blue Eden, we learned the importance of keeping our anormals engaged for their happiness—and ours.

This year, we introduced a rotating selection of new toys, tunnels, and scratching posts. This thoughtful choice ensured a stimulating environment, keeping our cats entertained and minimizing boredom-related mischief aboard.

Cats are naturally curious and playful creatures, and creating an enticing environment for them onboard can greatly enhance their well-being and your enjoyment of their company. Here are some tips to create an ideal environment for cats on a boat:

1. Design Engaging Play Areas

• Tunnels and Hideaways: Incorporate tunnels with various openings and textures to stimulate their natural instincts. These can serve as safe havens for hiding, pouncing, and playing.

• Interactive Toys: Provide a variety of toys such as plush mice, crinkly balls, and feather wands to keep them entertained and active.

2. Create a Safe and Comfortable Space

• Secure Environment: Ensure all areas are safe for exploration, with no sharp objects or hazardous materials within reach.

• Cozy Resting Spots: Set up comfortable beds or blankets in quiet areas for relaxation and naps.

3. Stimulate Their Senses

• Visual Stimulation: Allow access to windows or portholes so they can watch the outside world and enjoy the changing scenery.

• Sound and Smell: Use cat-friendly scents and gentle music to create a calming atmosphere.

4. Encourage Physical Activity

• Climbing Opportunities: Install cat trees or shelves to encourage climbing and jumping.

• Chase and Fetch Games: Engage them with games that involve chasing or fetching to keep them physically active.

5. Foster Companionship and Interaction

• Quality Time: Spend time playing and interacting with your animals to strengthen your bond.

• Socialization: If possible, introduce them to other friendly pets or people to enrich their social experiences.

  
  

By implementing these tips, you can create a vibrant and joyful environment for your cats onboard, enhancing both their quality of life and your own enjoyment of their playful antics.

Watching our cats and rabbits happily explore their new tunnels and play with their toys has added joy to our living space, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the boat.

Final Thoughts on Our Winter Experience

Winter offers diverse experiences, blending charm and challenges with memorable activities and emotions. The season also fosters reflection and connection, strengthening bonds through holiday gatherings and celebrations. Despite its challenges, winter teaches resilience and adaptability, encouraging joy in simple indoor pleasures like reading or creative hobbies. Winter's lessons of beauty, connection, and resilience shape our perspectives and understanding of the world. It reminds us of warmth in nature, relationships, and ourselves, inspiring us throughout the year.

As always,

Keep your stick on the ice.

-Kate

P.s. more winter photos to come later