Searching for a boat has been a little like searching for the camper. We’ve walked this road before — praying, seeking, and learning what it means to listen closely to the Lord’s leading one step at a time.
From the start, we discussed what would be “non-negotiables” and what we could live with as a family of five aboard a full-time liveaboard sailboat. As crew with Maritime Ministries, we’ve seen the Lord provide donated sailboats every year to others in ministry, and we’ve prayed earnestly for His direction — asking how we would obtain the vessel He desires to use for His glory.
This isn’t just a boat for us — it’s a platform for ministry, a tool to reach people for Christ, and a home where we can live and serve full time.
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him, and He will act.” — Psalm 37:5
There have been several offers of donated vessels, but each one has been just shy of the size or layout we’d need to accommodate our family. Still, we’ve been blessed to have some funds set aside for this purpose. So, in faith, we’ve continued to “shop” and send donation letters to owners who might be open to partnering with God’s work through their vessel.
Although we’ve had our share of disappointments along the way, we remain confident that God has the right one — the boat He already knows will serve the exact purpose He has in mind.
The Compass 47 — Stepping Out in Faith
Our first major pursuit was a Compass 47 monohull located in Kent Island, Maryland. I (Kim) found this vessel on Facebook, listed for $55,000, and felt prompted to reach out about a donation or partial donation. To our surprise, the owner replied, “If you can raise $35,000, we would take that.”
Weeks passed, and we nearly forgot about it — until Tim came across the same listing again, this time officially reduced to $35,000. He reached out, and after a good conversation and a video walkthrough, we both felt it was worth flying to Maryland to see it in person.
It was a faith step. We were using funds for flights, accommodations, and a rental car, but God was in the details. The owners graciously offered to let us stay on the boat for two nights — a huge blessing. It was also a sweet visit back to my old stomping grounds near Annapolis, and yes, I even got to enjoy my favorite cream of crab soup!
After two days of thoroughly inspecting the boat, we realized it wasn’t the right fit. It had significant interior water damage and years of neglect. Though disappointed, we had peace. It wasn’t wasted — it was another reminder that obedience to take the step matters more than the outcome.
“The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” — Proverbs 16:9
That night, while still sitting on that boat, Tim kept browsing listings — and found our next potential candidate.
The CT44 — A Boat Full of Potential
The next opportunity was a CT44 located in Fort Pierce, Florida. This one had potential but came with some compromises — it lacked sleeping space for all five of us, though Tim could remodel the second head (bathroom) into a cabin.
We were willing to sacrifice a little comfort because the systems onboard were in excellent condition, worth every bit of the asking price. Tim even found videos of the current owners restoring the boat, which gave us confidence in its quality.
Twice, our family packed up and made the three-hour drive to the east coast to view the boat. The first time, the owner met us at the boat ramp and dinghied us out to it, as it was anchored offshore. The cockpit was massive — perfect for hosting and ministry gatherings. I could already imagine people filling that space for fellowship and prayer.
As we explored, the girls excitedly discussed where they might sleep, and we began to dream a little bigger.
After spending nearly two hours onboard, we sat with the owner and discussed numbers. When he mentioned his bottom line, it matched exactly what we had available — to the dollar. Again, we felt that quiet affirmation of God’s hand guiding our steps.
“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine…” — Ephesians 3:20
The second visit was even more encouraging. Tim inspected every system, while I walked through the galley imagining how we’d make this space our home. We also connected deeply with the owners, who had recently transitioned to living in a camper while touring the country. They even invited us to see their converted bus before we left — and as it turns out, they knew some of the same people we’ve served alongside with Hope Fleet!
It felt like a divine connection.
We left that weekend feeling hopeful and full of anticipation, confident that this could be the one. But as we began the process of accessing funds and arranging surveys, the seller became impatient. Pressure began to build, and we knew — from experience — that God never operates through pressure, only peace.
So, we stepped back, laid it before the Lord, and prayed, “If this isn’t the boat, please close the door.” And He did.
“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him.” — Psalm 37:7
It was disappointing, but also freeing. Each “no” clears the path for the right “yes.”
Waiting, Watching, and Trusting
After that, the search slowed. Few boats met our criteria, and we found ourselves once again waiting.
That summer, we served in the Eastern Caribbean, crewing a catamaran and gaining valuable experience on the water. We loved the motion, the space, and the beauty — but it didn’t sway us toward one particular type of vessel. Our hearts remained open.
Even in Grenada, we kept looking. I found an owner of a catamaran listed for over $200,000 who wanted to trade for a camper. I reached out, shared what we do, and sent photos of our camper. They loved it and considered the idea — until we shared our bottom line. It didn’t work out, but I believe every conversation is a seed planted, and you never know when one will take root.
We’ve continued sending out donation letters because, as we’ve learned, you never know whose hands they might reach — someone with the means and the heart to see their vessel serve a Kingdom purpose.
“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” — Matthew 7:7
The Next Step — A Promising Lead
This summer, we moved up to North Carolina to serve with Maritime Ministries while continuing our search. We’ve toured a few boats along the way, and while none were “the one,” the process has kept us expectant and hopeful.
Just before heading south for the winter, Tim found a promising vessel — a unique South African-built bluewater sailboat. She’s capable of crossing oceans safely, has three cabins, abundant storage, and nearly every system onboard is updated and operational.
This is a “ready-to-go” boat, and we’re preparing to make an offer.
We’re asking for prayer support as well as financial partners to join us in this next faith step. While we have some funds available, any vessel we obtain will require additional costs — survey fees, transfer paperwork, and ongoing maintenance to keep her seaworthy for the work of the Kingdom.
“The Lord will provide.” — Genesis 22:14
We are full-time missionaries, walking by faith and trusting God to supply every need. If you feel led to partner with us in prayer or giving, we would be honored to have you join us on this journey.
We believe the vessel God has for us will not just carry our family — it will carry His presence, His purpose, and His hope wherever He sends us.
