What is the Best Size Yacht to Live On?

Updated March 18, 2025

4 min read

When considering life on the water, one of the most important questions is: what size yacht is ideal for living aboard? The answer largely depends on your lifestyle preferences, the number of people onboard, and the destinations you plan to explore. However, there are a few key factors that can help guide your decision toward finding the best liveaboard yacht.

Table of Contents

Space and Comfort

A yacht that will serve as your full-time home needs to have enough space to ensure comfort and practicality. For solo travelers or couples, yachts between 40 and 55 feet often provide a good balance between size and maneuverability. These yachts offer ample room for living spaces, cabins, a galley, and lounging areas without feeling overwhelmingly large. They are also more economical to operate and maintain than larger yachts.

For families or those who enjoy hosting guests, a yacht between 55 and 80 feet is usually ideal. This size range offers multiple cabins, larger living spaces, and better amenities, such as full-sized galleys, more spacious heads, and larger outdoor areas. You’ll also find that many yachts in this range offer specialized features like a flybridge or additional storage for water toys.

Maneuverability vs. Size

While larger yachts offer more space and comfort, they can also be more challenging to handle and dock, especially for those with limited experience. Yachts under 50 feet can usually be managed by a single person or a couple, especially if the yacht is equipped with modern systems like joystick docking, bow and stern thrusters, and advanced autopilot systems.

As yachts increase in size—particularly those above 80 feet—they often require a professional crew to handle day-to-day operations, such as navigation, docking, and maintenance. If you’re looking for a more self-sufficient living experience, choosing a smaller yacht within the 40- to 55-foot range might be the better choice.

Amenities and Layout

Living on a yacht full-time is different from using it for short vacations. You’ll want a yacht that feels like home, offering the right amenities and a layout that suits your daily needs. Look for yachts that feature open-plan living areas, well-equipped galleys, and multiple outdoor spaces. In the 60- to 80-foot range, many yachts are designed with larger staterooms, better storage solutions, and luxurious amenities like private en-suite bathrooms, walk-in closets, and even hot tubs or entertainment systems.

Budget Considerations

Your budget will play a major role in determining the right yacht size. It’s not just the initial cost of the yacht you need to consider, but also ongoing expenses such as fuel, maintenance, dockage, and insurance. Smaller yachts are more affordable to maintain and typically have lower operational costs, while larger yachts come with increased expenses for crew, fuel consumption, and upkeep.

Best Yacht Size by Category:

40 to 55 feet: Ideal for solo travelers or couples looking for a comfortable, manageable liveaboard experience with enough space for day-to-day living.
55 to 80 feet: Perfect for families or those seeking more luxurious amenities and space for entertaining guests. These yachts offer a balance between comfort and manageable size, though they may require occasional crew assistance.
80 feet and above: Offers the ultimate in luxury living with expansive space and high-end features. However, these yachts typically require a full crew to operate and come with higher operational costs.

Finding the Best Size Yacht to Live On

The best size yacht to live on comes down to your personal needs and lifestyle. If you prioritize maneuverability and affordability, a yacht in the 40- to 55-foot range is a great option. For those looking for more space and luxury, a yacht between 55 and 80 feet can provide all the comforts of home, while still being manageable for everyday use. Ultimately, the right yacht size is one that offers a perfect blend of comfort, practicality, and affordability for your life on the water.

Let Us Help You Find the Perfect Yacht for Your Life on the Water

Contact us to help you find your dream liveaboard yacht. Our experienced sales professionals can walk you through all the available options, ensuring you find the best yacht that suits your lifestyle, budget, and preferences. Whether you’re looking for something manageable and efficient or spacious and luxurious, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Let us help you make life on the water a reality.