Anchor Out More Often
Many cruisers prefer to transit from marina to marina. But for a 32-foot cruiser, a typical night in a marina in some parts of the country might cost up to $150, including electricity. Do this 10 nights during the season, and that's $1,500! Instead, plan several nights here and there at anchor, capture the unequalled delight and solitude of a night on the hook, and save the money. Or move away from those high-dollar destinations to those a little off the beaten path, where you might be charged half as much for dockage and other services.
Change Boats?
Adapt when your needs or crew size changes. Maybe downsize to a smaller boat to better utilize your time on the water, save on maintenance costs and fuel, and possibly even store a smaller boat at home on a trailer to avoid marina fees.
Monitor Fuel Burn
If you use a lot of fuel, install a fuel-flow meter to see gallons used and gallons remaining, allowing you to determine real-time fuel efficiency in gallons per hour. Then you'll know your ideal settings for maximum efficiency and performance.