One of the more challenging things to do while living on a sailboat with others is finding solitude. Solo sailing certainly has an advantage in that department.

A small sailboat with three guys has little privacy, little alone time, and almost no solitude.

There are things that can be done though. Starting with the selection of the boat. Ideally, everyone would have their own cabin with a door that closes. We got close with two cabins, so with the boys sharing the VBerth it’s not uncommon for one of them to be locked out for a while.

Having multiple dinghies is also a plus. We of course only have the one so coordination to shore becomes something to be more intentional about. We try to spend a few months a year in a marina just for this reason: the ability to wander off alone for a bit.

That ability to wander off becomes key. Time alone at a cafe, a solo hike, or even just sitting at a bench or on the sand alone can bring sanity.

The biggest hack though are noise canceling headphones, the ability to hide in an audio book or podcast or music can be just what the doctor ordered.