A couple of other observations--not restricted to Power Cats, but to livaboard/cruising. These are observations we have made thru the years--and possiably may not apply to an individual or in today's enconomy. First, we found that people who tried to run a business from their boats--especially from remote areas--became frustrated easily. There almost seems to be a "the owner is away" situation, and unless you have someone who is a top level manager to control the company on site, it can lead to problems. Reliable communication, and I would think in today's world this means broad band satellite, is essential--even in a non computer related business. We also found that people who did not own their boat (had loan payments) were far less comfortable than those who owned the boat. There can be huge expenses, even with a new boat. We have seen people who had absolutely no problems,but others where engines had to be replaced (not under waranatee--for example where the exhaust system was not designed properly and under certain wave conditions water came into the engine). Living aboard in the US is relitatively easy. If something breaks, you can usually find a mechanic or craftsman to fix it withing a reasonable time...usually. When you leave the US, all of this changes. It is probably worse on the West Coast, where there are longer distances between harbors and the conditions are often rougher. Mexico is slightly better than it was 20 years ago, but when you come to Central America, it can be a problem. The same is true of the out Islands in the Bahamas. Popular areas will have mechanics--as you move down the chain, less likely to be able to get parts and repair. Our philosophy was that you had to be able to fix the system or do without it. So you do need to have the mechanical and electrical skills. Reading the posts and archives in Trawler and Trawerling will give you a lot of good information on systems diagnosis and repair--also there are good books, such as by Nigel Calder. Be sure that you have a reliable contact in a good sized port, who has systems diagrams, part numbers and acces to what you may need and can ship these parts to you. Also develope a relationship with various repair people who may be able to help you out via E mail or voice transmissions. Finally, we were luckly to have sold real estate at the top and repurchase at the bottom. You might consider hedging with rental property purchase. (and a managnent firm to care for the property) You do have to look at your future. We never considered touching our retirement funds. However we did take equity out of houses to buy the boats--and then resold the boat after the trip. We did our cruising at age mid 40's and age mid 50's. At age late 60's we are no longer physically (and because of aging parents) able to cruise. So I repeat my advice--do it while you can. It is a great dream--and a great reality of life, if properly done. If you are not prepared it can be a nighmare! Good luck. Bob Austin