Living in 260 Square Feet

By the time we return to the Chesapeake, we will have spent nearly 5 months living in a 260-sq-ft floating home. Freedom is 32′ long with a 12′ beam. Subtract the side decks from the beam, and the interior width is about 10′. She carries that 10′ width from the stern forward about 20′ So figure that’s 10 x 20 = 200 sq feet. The next 12′ of length narrows down to a point at the bow, so figure it’s effectively 12′ x 5′ wide on average. So another 60 sq. ft, for a total of 260 square feet. Don’t forget, you can get a look at a Legacy 32 online. www.legacy–yachts.com/models/legacy-32

I am amazed at how comfortable it is:

• The cabin – down 4 steps from the helm – is all natural cherry, with excellent joinery. Cabin sole is classic teak-and-holly.
  • Centerline queen berth in the bow, with a comfortable hybrid latex/memory foam mattress, hanging locker for jackets, and plenty of storage for clothes.
  • Galley with microwave, induction cooktop, electric freezer, refrigerator, coffee maker, and plenty of storage for food and supplies.
  • A roomy head with separate shower compartment, and a great showerhead that delivers gallons of hot water.
• Up at the helm (or cockpit), a completely enclosed helm station with a huge windshield and 360-degree visibility for docking
  • Windshield wipers with washers: essential for salt spray
  • Opening windshield and side windows; overhead hatches for additional ventilation
  • Chartplotter, radar, depth sounder, speedometer, and VHF radio.
  • Plus a separate screen for engine diagnostics
  • Bow and stern thrusters operated by joysticks
  • Adjustable pilot and navigator seats covered in cream ultra-leather
• In the salon, aft of the helm, are two facing lounges that convert to berths if desired. Also ultra-leather
• Helm and salon floor is natural teak
• Cabin, cockpit and salon are heated / air conditioned
• A comfortable after deck with two chairs
• Tables for salon and after deck
• Wide side decks and foredeck with chrome guardrails for safety
• Teak swim platform with swim ladder
• Inflatable dinghy with electric outboard (no messy gasoline or oil)
• It’s a strong boat:
  • 16,000 pounds displacement
  • A powerful 5.9 liter Cummins diesel with turbo
  • Keel with skeg to protect prop and rudder
  • 50-amp shore power with inverter for 120-volt power
  • 12-volt power from the generator
• Plenty of storage below decks. We have everything stored in clear plastic waterproof bins that are labeled. Since I am single-handling, I cannot be fumbling around looking for dock lines or anything else I might need.

Which brings us back to the fact that she is mighty, but she is still small. EVERYTHING has to be kept in its place: binoculars, sunglasses, reading glasses, phone, even cigars and lighters. Misplaced items are a nuisance when you’re docked, and dangerous underway. Boy, I wish I would actually practice what I preach!

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Sorry if this ended up reading like a sales brochure. I simply mean it to be a testament to how much comfort and utility we are enjoying in less than 300 square feet of space.