You have a fixed amount of money available and you have caught the cruising bug. As yet you do not have a vessel or perhaps the boat you currently own is unsuitable for the type of cruising you have in mind. For those planning a long distance cruise (as opposed to local weekend cruising) you will need to divide your available funds into at least two, main plus several smaller components. The first sizeable chunk of your budget will be for the acquisition of the boat. You will have several options including having a boat designed and built to your requirements, building your own from a suitable design, or finding a suitable second-hand craft. The latter always involves varying amounts of boatbuilding in re-fitting the boat to meet your needs.

   The second main budgetary consideration for those who plan either to cruise full time or continuously for several months each year, will be the expenses associated with day to day living. Items such as food and clothing, boat maintenance, mooring and haul out fees will have to be allowed for. Add to this, visas and other associated paperwork, which can often be more expensive than expected. There will be the cost of additional gear and equipment such as replacement of lost or worn out items, plus new charts, pilot books and the like.