The Boat Galley

Why You Might Want Smaller Wineglasses Onboard

29 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Wondering if you're overindulging a bit on the boat? It might just be your wineglasses. Here's something to consider. Links (Amazon links are affiliat...

Privacy - Visual and Audio

22 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

A discussion of what constitutes privacy in a small space. Sometimes you just need to pretend. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that ...

How to Manage Mold on your Boat

15 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Cooler temps mean more condensation on the boat. And with condensation comes mold and mildew. Ugh. But there are a few ways to at least keep up with i...

Bahamas Cruising Permit

08 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Online paperwork for the win! A walk through of the cruising permit application for the Bahamas. Links:  Bahamas Customs Site Cruising Permit Pag...

Good Powdered Milk for Cruisers

01 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Powdered milk is awful. Right? Well, there is one option you might want to try. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley ...

Finding Your Weather Window

28 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

  Looking ahead can be instructive in deciding whether a window is good enough or not. Sometimes you take what's not quite perfect. Links:   Ch...

How to Store Butter and Cheese on a Boat

25 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

It can be hard to find butter and cheese in some cruising grounds. You certainly want it to last once you find it. Here's how--whether you have a refr...

Economy Isn't Always About Money

21 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Budget size first, then dollars - A few things to think about when provisioning the boat. Links: Costco - https://www.costco.com/   Nica email - ...

Making a Prep List for the Bahamas

18 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Everyone's "to do" list for going to the Bahamas will be different. But here are a few things to get you thinking based on our second trip there. Link...

The Hardest Part about Starting Cruising

14 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The stress of uncertainty is very real. A discussion of how hard it is to not quite be settled.   Links:  Nica email - [email protected] Caro...

Provisioning Options in the BVI

11 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Taking a charter trip to the British Virgin Islands this winter? Then keep listening for some provisioning options--and questions to ask when you appr...

Hurdles to Intentional Fitness Onboard

08 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Acknowledging the very real challenges to onboard exercise - and how to deal with them. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat...

How Much Spice to Provision When Cruising?

04 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Buying in bulk always gives you best price, right? Well, maybe not for spices. Especially when they lose their zing before you can use them. Subscribe...

Balance of Power

30 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Aligning your electricity needs on board with your power plant is key to a happy cruising life. On balancing the supply of amps and wants. Links (Amaz...

DIY Holiday Boat Decor

27 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Yearn for some holiday decorations for your boat? But don't have room for for much? Here are some ideas for DIY decorations that are affordable and ec...

Learning to Cruise

23 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

It's not quite as simple as YouTube makes it seem. Here's a discussion of the 2 aspects to learning to cruise, and how to go about getting the needed...

How to Use a French Press Coffee Maker

20 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

A French press coffee maker is a good way to brew coffee without electricity. But there are some quirks you need to know if they are new to you. Here'...

Keep the Paper

16 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

YouTube is a resource - but doesn't replace the joys of a good manual. Here are three reasons to hang on to your manufacturer's manual. Links (Amazon...

Best Features for Food Storage Bins

13 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

It's always smart to put food into bins before storing it away in lockers. These are the features that will help them keep your boat stores in good sh...

Tick it Off the List!

09 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

When is a project really done? When you do the important last step of any project-- testing.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that ...

Is Your Boat Fridge Cold Enough?

06 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Do you know if your boat refrigerator is doing its job? The only way to be certain is to monitor it. Here's  how.  La Crosse Technology Wireless Dig...

Sharp? Dull?

02 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Which is a safer knife a sharp one or dull one? Delving into 2 main reasons to keep a good edge on your galley knives. Links (Amazon links are affili...

How to Compact Onboard Trash

30 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Despite your best efforts, trash can pile up on the boat. The best way to manage? Compact it. Here's how.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, m...

Bananas are Bad!

26 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Rigging bananas, that is. Here are two questions to ask when evaluating shops to build new standing rigging.    Links (Amazon links are affiliat...

Water's Role in Boat Provisioning

23 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Provisioning involves lots of decisions about taste, availability, storage space, and more. But have you considered the role your water tankage plays ...

Keeping Warm Onboard

19 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Cozy feet matter!  Here's one important feature to look for when choosing slippers for life on a boat. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, mean...

Making Square Cuts in Stainless Tube

16 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

WIthout a shop, it can be challenging to make straight cuts in stainless tubing for your boat projects. Here are a few ways to make it a little easier...

Community Matters

12 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

A hidden, often-overlooked, reason to choose one boatyard over another.  Links:   Nica email - [email protected] Carolyn email - carolyn@thebo...

How to Store Fruit Outside the Fridge

09 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Storing fruit outside your boat fridge saves room for other perishable items. But not all fruit is the same. Here's which fruits store best at room te...

Focus on Favorites

05 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Provisioning without overwhelm, no basics required - A perspective shift on stocking up. Links: Penzeys Spices -  https://www.penzeys.com/  Jack...

Keeping Costs Down While Cruising

02 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Trying to keep costs down while cruising? Who isn't? Luckily, we can suggest one resource from cruising legends that will give you a lot to think abou...

What is Reality Anyway?

27 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Some musings on the predeliction to assume that someone else's life somehow isn't "real."  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The...

Thermos Recommendations for your Cruising Boat

25 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

When you want a hot cup of coffee on an overnight passage, only a good Thermos will do. But just what is a good vacuum bottle to keep hot drinks hot a...

Paperwork, Managed!

21 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Getting an international MMSI involves a bit of patience. These are the specific steps to getting your ships radio license from the FCC. Links (Amaz...

6 Steps to Follow for Bugs in Onboard Flour

18 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

There's nothing worse than finding bugs in your flour. Especially when you can't just run to the store to buy more. Here's what you MUST do to stop bu...

An Important (Overlooked) Onboard Role

14 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Keeping boat life positive is a big responsibility. Who is the happiness engineer on your boat?  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning th...

Keep Your Cell Phone Dry

11 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

We use our phones for more than ever--photos, navigation, oh, and also making calls. But to use it, you have to keep it dry. Here's my favorite case t...

Office Machine Redux

07 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

3 reasons (plus an extra) why making room for an onboard printer is a good idea. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley...

Storing Fresh Seafood Onboard

04 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

You had a great day fishing. But now you have more than you can eat. How do you store fresh seafood in your boat fridge so it lasts? Links (Amazon lin...

Getting a Boat Telephone Number

31 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

What exactly an MMSI is and what to know when applying for one. Links:    BoatUS - https://www.boatus.com/ US Power Squadrons -  https://www...

Your Hurricane Plan for Insurance

28 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Are you cruising anywhere that hurricanes can hit? Then your insurance company will want to see your hurricane plan. Here's how to make one. Subscribe...

Put the Sharpie Away

24 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Easy at a glance identification is just a quick machine away: the why's and what's of choosing a label maker. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links...

The Best Boat Can Opener

21 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Without a good can opener, all that food in your boat is worthless. But is there one that just works? Every time? Links (Amazon links are affiliate li...

Organizing Fasteners

17 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Keeping the chaos of screws and bolts down helps projects progress. These are the 3 essential attributes to look for in a fastener storage container. ...

Using the Cruiser's Net

14 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

How do you get the information you need when arriving in a new anchorage or marina? Well, there's always the Cruiser's Net. Here's what you need to kn...

Tarps and 2x4s

10 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Boatyard essentials you might not have thought of before. These  2 basic pieces of gear make boat work in the yard a little easier. Links (Amazon li...

10 Tips for Hurricane Prep

07 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Hurricane season is upon us. Now is the time to make your plan. Here are 10 tips (plus a bonus) to help you. Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter!...

Dark to Bright

03 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Painting lockers with BilgeKote is a satisfying project. Here are the  7 steps to locker paint perfection. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, ...

How to Build a Boat Garden

31 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fresh greens and herbs are great on a boat. But how do you keep them on hand? Just grow your own. Here's how. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links,...

Which Comes First?

27 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Our recently-discovered corollary to Boat Refit Rule #1: anything you take off you'll have to reinstall. But here are three important tips to making r...

Buying a Boat with the Handholds You Need

24 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

It's easy to be distracted by pretty teak or a comfy cockpit. But handholds are one things you want to be sure work for you before buying a cruising b...

Who is Nica Anyway?

20 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Here's a bit about one of the voices on The Boat Galley Podcast. Learn about Nica's background, experience, and passions!  Links:  The Boat Gall...

A Helpful Way to Test Boat Batteries

17 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Batteries are at the heart of a cruising boat's power systems. So you want to know yours are well charged. Here's one tool that can help. Links (Amazo...

Know How Much You've Got Out

13 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Marking your anchor rode is a must-do project! Here's the why and how of marking anchor anchor and line. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, mea...

How to Use Silicone Baking Cups on your Boat

10 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

I had no idea how useful that pack of silicone baking cups would be. But I use them all the time on my boat. Here's why you might find them useful too...

Free, Friendly, and Fabulous

06 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

A relatively unvisited small town on the ICW gave us an unexpectedly fine evening. Discover the joys of cruising to Elizabeth City!  Links (Amazon li...

Options for Unbreakable Boat Dishes

03 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

An ocean passage is not the only time you need to worry about boat dishes breaking. Everyday boat life is challenging enough. But there are some great...

Not so Dismal!

29 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Beauty, peace, and wilderness - if you can tick all the boxes! Here are 5 points to consider about taking the Dismal Swamp route in the ICW. Links (A...

Keep Bread From Getting Crushed Onboard

26 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

How do you store bread on a boat without it getting crushed by other food items? Here are some tips to try. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, m...

Most Delicious Easy Lentil Soup

22 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

When you are low on time and hungry as can be, this simple soup hits the spot. It's like a delicious curry and easy to make from pantry ingredients. L...

Oh, the People You'll Meet

19 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Who will you meet on the average cruising boat? You can't even imagine. And what interesting stories they have to share. Subscribe to the Boat Galley ...

In Medias Res

15 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Our passage north to the States from the Caribbean in spring of 2023 was very different than we'd first thought. Rather than a straight shot, it invo...

A 12-Volt Fan Worth Making Room For

12 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Is there a way to shift more air around the boat at anchor? Especially in parts of that boat that don't have hard wired fans? Yes--just keep listening...

Northbound Lessons Learned

08 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Northbound from the Caribbean in spring of 2023 taught us that some progress is better than none, that deadlines aren't horrific, and that misery is ...

How to Store Baking Supplies Onboard

05 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

If you don't store your baking supplies properly, you could end up with a big mess on your boat. Or worse, lose ingredients you'll miss between provis...

Night Watch Wonder

01 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

A love letter to our last night on passage before reaching the USA. Audio clip from the night watch included!  Links (Amazon links are affiliate link...

A Simple Boat Exhaust Fan

29 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Ventilation is crucial on a boat. But you don't have to buy an expensive fan and cut a hole in your deck to install one. Here's an idea that's effecti...

The Bottle Tour

25 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

We focused on an island specialty when we rented a car in Martinique. We were surprised at the variety we found while exploring 4 of Martinique's rhu...

AIS and Aids to Navigation

22 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Buoys, day beacons, and lights are becoming far more sophisticated. Here's what you need to know about the integration of Aids to Navigation and AIS. ...

Adventure Everywhere

18 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Six hours to provision? Par for the course! Here's a not-too-far-exaggerated recounting of one grocery store run while cruising. Links (Amazon links a...

Keep Plastic Garbage Bags Neat on a Boat

15 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Even if you bring your own bags when provisioning, those plastic garbage bags still turn up onboard. Here are a few ways to keep them handy when you n...

In Sand, At Low Tide

11 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

From Trinidad to the Chesapeake Bay is a major shift in direction. Understand why being flexible can go from feeling like a backtrack to being someth...

Are You Prepared to Abandon Ship?

08 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

It's every cruiser's worst nightmare--leaving their vessel behind after a rescue. If it happened to you, would you be prepared?  Subscribe to the Boa...

Guadeloupe, French West Indies

04 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Come along as we explore 3 of Guadeloupe's southern offshore islands. Links: Petit Terre Moorings: https://reservesdesiradepetiteterre.com/reservatio...

Tend a Boat Garden

01 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Yes, you can have a garden on a boat. Cruisers do it all the time. Here are some easy tips to get yours started. Links (Amazon links are affiliate lin...

Cruising Internationally?

27 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Taking your own boat into a new country involves some new experiences. Some information makes this much easier to do correctly.  Links:  Noonsit...

Drinks That Don't Take Up Room

24 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

There are drawbacks to storing tons of canned and bottled drinks on the boat. But you're not suck drinking only water.  Links (Amazon links are affil...

Local Ingredients

20 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The Eastern Caribbean offers a fascinating glimpse into local culture - all by hitting a market or two.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, me...

Every Boat Galley Needs Shears

17 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The best boat gear has more than one use. That's why I love my kitchen shears. You'll find many uses for them too. Links (Amazon links are affiliate l...

Upping the Sundowner Nibble Game

13 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

When faced with the option of throwing away excess baguettes, a wise cruiser finds a different option. And it's easy and delicious. Links (Amazon link...

Best Boat Wine Glasses?

10 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Sipping wine in the cockpit at sunset is what many cruisers love the most. But with tight space and a moving vessel, which wine glasses are the best f...

Your Gear or Someone Else's?

06 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

If offered the choice between a mooring ball or anchoring, which would you choose? It's sometimes a matter of trust. Latitude 38 article on Archer Mo...

Keeping Paper Towels Handy on the Boat

03 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Sure, an expensive teak paper towel holder looks beautiful. But is it your best option? Maybe not. Try this instead. Links (Amazon links are affiliate...

Buddy Boating

30 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Company is nice. Self-sufficiency is important. How do you reconcile the two?    Links:    The Boat Galley Website -  https://products.th...

The Only Shoes Cruisers Need

27 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Just how many pairs of shoes do you need on a cruising boat? Probably fewer than you think. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The ...

Cruising is Just . . .

23 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Why it's a lot more than boat work. A dissection of a common cruising saying - and why I don't like it very much.   Links:  The Boat Galley Webs...

Making "Almost" Lasagna Onboard

20 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Craving lasagna but don't have an oven on your boat? Here's how you can make it on your stovetop--and enjoy all the cheesy yumminess that regular lasa...

3 Reasons We Love our VHF Radio

16 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

2 dragging boats, 2 ways of messaging - and 2 different outcomes.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earn...

Rats! You've Got Rodents Onboard

13 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Mice, and even worse, rats can do a lot of damage on your boat. Listen for my best tips to get rid of rodents. And to keep them from wreaking havoc. L...

No Rod Required

09 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

A breakdown of Calypso's offshore fishing kit - no rod required! You do, however, need a clothespin.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meani...

Your Extra Galley Hand - The Staybowlizer

06 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

You never have enough hands in the galley. Especially when you're saiing on a beat. But there's one nifty tool that helps. Links (Amazon links are aff...

Flag Etiquette

02 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Where to fly what flags on your boat: A primer on what part of the boat is for which flags you might want to fly when cruising. Courtesy flags - htt...

Upgrading a Boat With Solar

27 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

We bought our boat with little solar capacity. It was time for an upgrade. Learn how we planned and implemented the improvements that gave us all the ...

3 Ways To Make Oil Changes Easier

23 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Our favorite tools and tricks to make routine oil changes on board much less messy. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Gal...

Dealing with Garbage While Cruising

20 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Sure cruisers crossing the ocean toss garbage overboard. But is that an option when you're coastal cruising or doing short island hops? Absolutely not...

Bridge Mania

16 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

  Two bridges in quick succession to enter Simpson Bay Lagoon in St. Martin led to an unexpected snafu that almost derailed the whole thing. Lessons...

How to Gain Skills for Boat Insurance

13 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Okay, you bought the boat. But now you need insurance. And the insurance companies want you to have boating experience. How do you get it?  Our in...

Snubber Smarts

09 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

A discussion of Calypso's anchoring gear and technique, especially the snubber we use to provide required stretch.  Links (Amazon links are affiliat...

How to Save Money on Boat Parts

06 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

A photograph and a little research saved us $120 on replacing a vital part for our water maker. Learn what we did. And try it yourself the next time y...

Shoebox-sized Boat Treasures

02 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Four of our favorite, seemingly-inconsequential items on our crusing boat Calypso. They'll all fit in a shoebox!  Links (Amazon links are affiliate l...