Sailing as a Family of Four: Suburbia to the Sea
TRADING CONCRETE FOR CURRENTS
Jasmine and Owen Richards once lived the typical suburban life: steady jobs, a family home, and the familiar rhythm of modern parenthood. But something tugged at them—a sense that life could be lived differently. So, with bold hearts and two young daughters in tow, they swapped their “forever home” for a floating one: a Lagoon 450 catamaran. “We just thought, wait, we could show up and we could do it now. So why wouldn’t we?” Now, they sail full-time with Indy and Luca, their daughters, embracing a life dictated by tides, not traffic.
LIVING THE DREAM—NOW, NOT LATER
For many, the liveaboard lifestyle is a retirement fantasy. But for Jasmine and Owen, time felt more fragile. After watching loved ones face sudden health challenges, they realised tomorrow isn’t promised. The decision became clear: sell everything, simplify, and set sail. Their journey began along Australia’s east coast, meandering through the turquoise anchorages of the Whitsundays and Fraser Island. They’re not in a rush. Each day brings discovery: eagle rays in shallow waters, dingoes on remote beaches, and the kind of stillness suburbia rarely offers.
KIDS ON BOARD: RAISING A FAMILY AT SEA
Raising children aboard a catamaran sounds idyllic— and often, it is. But it comes with challenges. “They’ve come out of their shell a lot, learning things most kids don’t get to experience.” Between marine biology lessons delivered by the sea itself and friendships forged in far-flung marinas, Indy and Luca are thriving. Their days are shaped by tides, weather patterns, and curiosity. For this family, education isn’t confined to a classroom.
SCHOOLING AT SEA
Home schooling was a steep learning curve for Jasmine. “What works for one of our children doesn’t work for the other… but we’re figuring it out.” She tailors their education with books, experiences, and explorations. A day at Australia Zoo transforms into a deep dive into biology, complete with journaling, sketching, and storytelling. Learning has become a lived experience— dynamic, flexible, and inspiring.
FUNDING THE DREAM: REALITY OVER ROMANCE
Forget the Instagram-fuelled myth of six-figure digital nomads. The Richards’ journey was grounded in old-fashioned hard work. “We don’t have a fancy online business,” Owen explains. “I’ve always worked FIFO offshore as an electrician.” Their dream took years of planning—renovating homes, saving diligently, and setting clear goals. Today, Owen continues to work offshore part-time, while Jasmine manages life on the boat, sometimes solo.
ANCHORED BY COMMUNITY
One of the most unexpected gifts of cruising life? The community. “I could call anyone or knock on any boat, and they would come to help.” From weather tips to moral support, fellow cruisers offer camaraderie and kindness in spades. For Jasmine, who often solo-parents while Owen is away, this network is a lifeline.
ONWARD AND OUTWARD
As they prepare to sail from Australia to the Pacific— destinations like New Caledonia, Fiji, and Vanuatu on the horizon—the family’s spirit of adventure only grows stronger. “There’s just so much to see… I feel like I’ve barely scratched the itch.” For Owen, the dream is simple: sailing, surfing, fishing, palm trees, and being present with his family. Their message for others who feel the pull of the horizon? “It’s not always easy, but the experiences and memories are worth every single challenge.”
ADVENTURE IS CALLING
This isn’t just a story about sailing. It’s about choosing a different path, even when it’s uncertain. About trading routine for wonder. And about raising kids who know the world firsthand.
Follow Jasmine and Owen’s journey on Instagram: @jazzyrichards @owenslifeofowen
INSPIRED TO START YOUR OWN ADVENTURE?
Contact TMG Yachts to explore the possibilities aboard a Lagoon Catamaran by emailing tmg@tmgyachts.com or call 1300 175 325.
Published in print August-December 2025
