‘It’s not just sunsets and cocktails:’ They sold their home in Colorado to live on a sailboat

‘It’s not just sunsets and cocktails:’ They sold their home in Colorado to live on a sailboat

A Shared Vision of Freedom

It s not just sunsets and cocktails – Charly Oliver and Michelle Denton’s journey to a life on the water began in the 1990s when they first crossed paths. Their bond was forged over a mutual aspiration: to escape the confines of traditional living and embrace a lifestyle of constant exploration. For decades, this dream remained a distant goal, but after years of dedication, the couple achieved it by selling their Boulder, Colorado, residence a decade ago. The proceeds from the sale allowed them to acquire a sailboat named “Rascal,” marking the start of a new chapter centered around the sea.

Life at sea has transformed their understanding of freedom. Unlike the fast-paced routines of land-based living, their days unfold with the rhythm of tides and the unpredictability of nature. Denton, who has always been drawn to the open water, reflects on how this lifestyle aligns with her childhood passions. “The sailing life embodies a deep connection to the natural world,” she says. “It’s about working with the environment rather than against it.”

Seasonal Adventures and Global Exploration

Each winter, the couple sets sail across the clear waters of the Bahamas, a destination that has become a favorite for its pristine beaches and breathtaking sunsets. Over the years, they have traversed more than 700 islands in the archipelago, including the Abacos, the Berry Islands—a 30-island chain—and the remote Mayaguana. These months of exploration are a stark contrast to the summer months, when they pursue their travels on land, having already visited 36 countries spanning Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

During the warmer seasons, the sailboat becomes a base of operations, though it is often left behind as they embark on new adventures. Denton explains that the couple’s decision to live on the water was driven by a desire to break free from the monotony of stationary life. “There’s something exhilarating about not being tied to a single location,” she says. “Every horizon feels like a new opportunity.”

The Challenges of a Nautical Life

Despite the allure of life on a sailboat, the transition was not without its hurdles. Denton had once envisioned a retirement plan that included frugal living and early independence. As a law student, she crafted a 40-year roadmap, emphasizing savings and simplicity. When she married Oliver in 2004, the couple united their visions, and Denton shared her plan with him. Their shared commitment led to the purchase of a luxury yacht, only for it to arrive in a state of disrepair—covered in mold and requiring extensive repairs.

Oliver, who previously worked in the industrial safety sector, acknowledges the sacrifices involved in this lifestyle. “It’s not just about the beauty of the ocean or the comfort of being afloat,” he notes. “There’s a constant need for preparation, patience, and problem-solving.” From fixing mechanical issues to navigating unpredictable weather, the couple has learned to adapt. A particularly memorable challenge was a rough crossing of the Gulf Stream, an ocean current that tests even the most seasoned sailors. “You don’t go anywhere fast,” Oliver adds. “Weather conditions can be unpredictable, whether you’re out at sea or anchored in a harbor.”

Living Simply and Embracing the Slow Pace

Life on Rascal is defined by minimalism and a slower tempo. The boat’s kitchen features only a compact oven, and digital communication relies on a limited satellite internet connection. These constraints, while initially daunting, have become part of their routine. Denton emphasizes that they no longer miss the conveniences of modern life. “We avoid eating out because there aren’t many restaurants near the water,” she says. “The simplicity of our setup makes us more attuned to the essentials.”

Financially, the nautical lifestyle offers significant advantages. While boat insurance costs are similar to house insurance, the couple’s energy needs are met entirely by solar panels installed on Rascal. This setup reduces their reliance on utilities and keeps expenses manageable. Their ability to live affordably has allowed them to prioritize experiences over material possessions. “We’ve been able to travel extensively without sacrificing comfort,” Denton explains. “It’s a way to maintain a balanced life.”

Expanding Horizons and a New Vessel

Recognizing the need for stability, the couple recently purchased a home near the Cascade Mountains in Cle Elum, Washington. This base on land provides a safe haven between sea excursions, offering a place to rest and recharge. However, their latest venture has shifted their focus further from seasonal limitations. In 2023, they acquired a new 34-foot motor yacht, which will be christened “Motoryacht Rascal.” This change allows for greater flexibility, enabling them to explore cooler northern regions like Desolation Sound and the Gulf Islands in British Columbia during summer months.

While the motor yacht is smaller than their previous sailboat, it features more confined living spaces but is designed for easier transport via a trailer. This adaptability is crucial for their evolving goals. “We wanted a vessel that could take us to places we couldn’t reach before,” says Oliver. “The motor yacht gives us the freedom to travel year-round, without waiting for seasonal winds.” Their new boat also brings a sense of practicality, as it can navigate more challenging waters with less reliance on favorable conditions.

Reflections on a Life of Constant Motion

For Denton, the decision to sell their home in Boulder was a pivotal moment that aligned with their long-term dreams. “We had already seen most of our bucket-list destinations across the United States,” she says. “But the idea of continuing to discover new places, no matter how remote, was irresistible.” Oliver shares this sentiment, highlighting the couple’s philosophy. “Retirement is about doing what you love, not about settling into a routine,” he says. “The ability to live where the adventure takes us is the true reward.”

As they continue their journey, the couple remains committed to their way of life. The nautical lifestyle, with its blend of freedom, simplicity, and global exploration, has become their ideal. While challenges persist, they view them as part of the experience. “Life at sea isn’t always smooth,” Denton admits. “But it’s the kind of challenge that keeps us growing.” With their new motor yacht and a base on land, they are poised to take their travels to even greater heights, proving that the dream of a life on the water can evolve and expand with time.