Boat Life with Lau & Vinnie
Embracing Life on Water
Continuing their journey of unconventional living, Lau and Vinnie have transitioned from the snug confines of van life to the rhythmic sway of life on a boat. In their pursuit of a conscious lifestyle closer to nature, the couple finds themselves intimately connected with the elements, where every raindrop and gust of wind becomes a tangible presence. The proximity to nature, with the boat moving on the water in response to the elements, creates a unique and immersive living experience.
Lau, Vinnie, thanks for having us on your home on water. Introduce each other please.
Vinnie: Lau is not just my best friend; she's my companion, my everything. We crossed paths three years ago, and since then, her presence has transformed my life significantly. I had been leading a conventional life—completed my Economics studies, entered the workforce promptly, and adhered to societal expectations for a young person. While I was comfortably navigating the well-trodden path of life, I sensed that it wasn't entirely aligned with my expectations. Volunteering at a surf camp in Portugal introduced me to Lau, and I felt an urge to step off the societal train and explore a different direction together with this amazing human.
Lau: Vinnie is not only my boyfriend and life partner but also a constant source of inspiration, fostering a positive and resilient perspective on life. Unlike any previous relationships, with Vinnie, I've found a harmonious blend of adventure, safety, and peace. Our perspectives on life align and our moral compasses point in the same direction. We came together at a pivotal moment when both of us were on the brink of embarking on the next chapter of our lives. Despite the relatively short duration of our relationship, the natural ease with which we coexist in a confined space has accelerated our understanding of each other.
How did you guys end up living the Boat Life?
Vinnie: Ever since we first crossed paths, we've been tossing around ideas about living small—like considering a tiny house, but not necessarily a traditional one. Our initial thought was getting a boat and situating it on land, kind of like a camper but with a unique twist, rather than opting for a conventional house.
Lau: When we first met, both of us were living in a van, embracing a nomadic lifestyle. So, coexisting in a limited space wasn't new to us. We appreciate the simplicity of living in a small area since we don't require much, and we genuinely prefer being outdoors which we are forced to do living on a small area.
Vinnie: After three years of exploring and traveling, our plan was initially to head to Asia. However, out of the blue, this opportunity to buy a boat presented itself, and we didn't hesitate to seize it. It was an offer too good to pass up, especially since it came with a lease for a harbour space—something that can be quite challenging to secure when you want to live on a boat.
What are the benefits of living small and do you ever see yourself living in a big house?
Lau: You really have to be mindful of a lot of things. You can't just bring everything when you know there's limited storage space. Even though we both tend to be a bit disorganized, some level of structure is essential.
Vinnie: The only thing I'm missing right now is a small workshop, but I understand that it's not just a boat thing. It was the same when we were living in the van. Like Lau mentioned, you realise you can't have it all, so you have to make deliberate choices and make some sacrifices here and there.
Lau: I don't envision us growing old on the boat, but for this stage of our lives, it's a perfect fit. I don't want to be tied down by a hefty mortgage, and in a different way than with our van, the boat allows us to travel and still return to our own bed.
Do you have plans to travel around Europe/the world with the boat?
Lau: Yes, that's the plan for sure. We know the previous owner took the boat to France, so it's doable. Both of us enjoy being on the move, and we'll start small. Our first trip is to visit my parents in Haarlem, where I grew up. But before that, we need to get our boating license, and we're both starting the course in January.
Vinnie: I'm really excited about using the boat the way it was meant to be used. The idea of being 'on the road' with the boat is something to look forward to. I have to admit, though, my wanderlust has calmed down since living on the boat. I've found a sense of peace within myself that I hadn't experienced before.
Convince us to go live on a boat.
Lau: Living on a boat brings you much closer to your environment. During rainy or windy weather, you truly feel the elements around you. There's a lack of protection compared to being in a traditional house, making you feel more connected to the environment. Each raindrop and gust of wind becomes noticeable as the boat moves on the water.
Vinnie: When you're on the move, like in a van, your home is always with you. There's no need to adjust to new rooms or living spaces, and you have your own bed available at all times. It feels like a significant luxury, in my opinion.
In line with what Lau mentioned earlier, living on a boat also encourages spending more time outdoors. This is not only due to the sense of community at the harbor but also because of the limited space, making it easier to step outside. It brings you into closer contact with and within your natural surroundings.
In this journal Lau is wearing one of our ltd. Edition Pyjamas; Guerilla Pants in Nikko Denim, Cropped Big T, Armor vest in Blanket Wool, Cashmere beanie and a pair of Kleman Padror shoes.