Your profession is not what brings home your paycheck. Your profession is what you were put on earth to do with such passion and such intensity that it becomes spiritual in calling.
Vincent Van Gogh
Remote Work on a Boat: Gear!
Ergonomic Accessories
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Laptop Stand
An adjustable laptop stand ensures your screen is at eye level, reducing neck and shoulder strain.
This one is fairly light weight and can fit in my backpack with my laptop, keyboard, and trackpad, but there might be a different stand that works great for you!
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Split Keyboard
An ergonomic split keyboard keeps your hands, arms, and shoulders in a more natural position, reducing strain.
I have this mechanical split keyboard that I love, but do a little review-research and find the best option for you.
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Vertical Mouse
An ergonomic vertical mouse designed to minimize wrist strain and improve comfort during extended use.
This is the mouse my husband prefers to use when he’s editing photos and creating landscape designs.
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Wrist Rest
A comfortable wrist support pad can prevent wrist fatigue and strain while typing or using a mouse.
It will also help raise your wrists above the raised edge of all boat desks, tables, and counters.
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Compression Gloves
Lightweight compression gloves can alleviate hand and wrist pain from prolonged typing.
I deal with pain in my hands, and these are comfortable and help when I’m on the keyboard for a long time or doing a lot of handwork for something (like sewing!).
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Trackpad
A smooth and responsive trackpad can replace a traditional mouse, which is ideal for limited spaces.
I like working on a trackpad, but a Bluetooth or vertical mouse might be your favorite!
Desk & Monitor Setup
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External Monitor
A high-resolution external monitor will provide a dual-screen setup, enhancing productivity.
You might also want to use this as your TV screen. For convenience, find a monitor with built-in speakers. Consider what inputs you need, too.
Also, keep an eye on the power consumption.
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Monitor Mount
An adjustable monitor mount frees up desk space and provides optimal screen positioning.
We use this mount, which allows us to adjust vertically (get the right eye height!), spin our monitor vertically, and face it toward the salon for movie night.
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Lap Desk with Cushion
A lap desk can come in handy when you need a bit of portability.
I enjoy this one, but there are many great options!
Tech & Connectivity
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Noise-Canceling Headphones
Noise-canceling headphones minimize distractions and improve focus.
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Portable Power Bank
A high-capacity power bank will keep your devices charged while on the go.
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Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
Durable, waterproof Bluetooth speaker for enjoying music and calls without worry.
We also use our Bluetooth Speaker for watching movies, since our external monitor doesn’t have built-in speakers.
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Cord Organizers
Velcro cord ties and organizers to keep your workspace tidy and free of clutter.
Honestly, these are handy all over the boat, not just in your workspace!
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Solar-Powered Charger
An eco-friendly solar charger keeps your devices powered using renewable energy, even when you’re out on the go.
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Compact Air Purifier
A small air purifier will improve air quality in your boat’s confined spaces.
Internet Connections
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Starlink
This satellite internet solution offers high-speed, reliable connectivity in remote locations. It is incredibly popular with Loopers, cruisers, and RVers.
We have the standard actuated model and use Starlink Roam (the Mobile Regional plan).
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PepLink
This versatile router provides seamless internet connectivity through multiple sources.
We only have Starlink connected to our router, but we could add SIM cards or Marina Wi-Fi as additional inputs. This makes it seamless since your devices don’t need to change their connection; they stay connected to the router.
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Starlink 12volt Conversion Kit (PoE)
Last year, we had to DIY our conversion of our Starlink’s power from AC to DC. Now, you can buy a simple device and not have to deal with any cord-cutting!
I haven’t used this product, but for the price, it might be a worthy solution to try.
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PoE Conversion Process
Switching your Starlink Dishy to run on Power over Ethernet (PoE) enables you to run Dishy while not running your inverter, which can save power.
This is helpful when you’re on anchor!
We used instructions from Outside Nomad to convert ours, but newer options & videos are also available!
Looking for more resources about working remotely from your boat?
Lighting & Glare
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Anti-Glare
Using an anti-glare screen protector can help mitigate those bright spots on your screen when you decide to work out in the sun on your deck or in your cockpit.
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Task Lighting
Sometimes a little extra light on your work surface can make a difference. Look for task lighting that is easy on the eyes and also includes a red-light option. This way you have dual-purpose light that helps when you need to preserve night-vision on a passage.
Personal Wellness
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Ergonomic Chair Cushion
A supportive chair cushion can improve posture and comfort during extended work hours, especially on less comfortable boat seating.
I use this cushion at our nav desk and will sometimes take it into the salon if I have a long day of sitting ahead!
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Adjustable Standing Desk Converter
Easily adjustable standing desk converter to alternate between sitting and standing positions.
Remember that a standing desk might be less practical in rocky water, but if you’re at a calm anchorage, this could be a great way to stretch your legs during work!
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Anti-Fatigue Floor Mat
These mats are great if you are standing for a while.
We have one of these in our galley, and it’s so lovely!
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Blue Light Blocking Glasses
Blue Light Blocking Glasses are designed to reduce eye strain from prolonged screen time.
I already wear glasses and have the blue light-blocking built-in!
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Mini Exercise Bike
If you won’t be able to walk to shore or just need a way to stretch your legs (or arms) while onboard, these under-desk exercise bikes might be right for you.
Be sure to read the reviews and find what will be best for you!
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Mini Stair Stepper
These stair steppers can slide under your desk when you don’t need them, giving you another portable way to get your legs moving if you can’t leave the boat.
This model has attachments to work out your arms, too.
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Simple Workday Exercise
Getting up and moving around throughout the workday is important to avoid stiffness and strain.
Here are a few simple exercises you can do during the workday to help maintain physical health and reduce the risk of strain.
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Simple Meditation Techniques
Mental well-being is noteworthy, and living on a boat can create stress.
Incorporating simple meditation techniques into your daily routine can significantly enhance your mental well-being and help you find moments of peace amidst the adventure of life on the water.
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Learn how to balance work and cruising life on the Great Loop. Alison Major shares practical tips for working remotely aboard a boat, keeping productivity afloat, and enjoying the journey.