The Boat Galley

Store Knives Safely on a Boat

30 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

One of the most important storage decisions you'll make in your galley is where to store your knives. It's a matter of safety. And the best option mig...

No Ice, No Problem!

26 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Keeping both rum and mixer in the fridge is key to enjoying cold drinks in the evening.   Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The ...

Boat Sinks - Double or Single?

23 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Sales descriptions of boats highlight double sinks. But are they the best option for you? Here's what you should consider.  Subscribe to the Boat Ga...

Mail Call, Cruising Style

19 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The adventure to pick up our Amazon package ranged far beyond just actually getting it shipped!  Links: St John Bus Schedule: http://bit.ly/3CSWv7G  ...

Tools to Make Bottom Cleaning Easier

16 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Cleaning your boat bottom is a crucial task. And it can be exhausting. But if you use the right tools, it's much easier.     Links (Amazon links...

Tech To Help Cruisers Clear In To A New Country

12 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Wherein the crew of Calypso uses 2 separate apps (or websites) to clear in and out of 2 countries in the span of 2 hours. Yes, customs and immigratio...

How to Remove Biting Ticks

09 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Ticks carry diseases for both humans and pets. And no one wants to deal with a tick-borne illness while cruising. Learn about the quick and safe way t...

Holiday Traditions

05 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Favorite foods and a fun new twist on caroling help us keep content at what's normally big family time.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, mea...

The Right Cooler for Storing Food

02 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Whether cruising without a fridge or just need more room for perishables, a good cooler is a great tool. But which is the right one? And is more expen...

Tracking For the Win!

29 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

A review of the Garmin InReach - a great way to keep up with family and friends along the way. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that T...

Wine Without Spilling

26 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Are you tired of spilling wine in your cockpit? Or drinking an unexpected bug? There's an answer. It's called Vino2Go.   Links (Amazon links are a...

Lessons in Diesel Management

22 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

6 tips on understanding your fuel usage aboard. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying pu...

How to Bake Bread on the Grill

19 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Don't heat up the galley. Bake your bread on the outdoor grill. Here's how.  Bread recipes that work on the grill: White Bread, Swedish Rye or Zucch...

Searching for Goldilocks

15 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

A discussion of the 2 vastly different weather challenges we faced while sailing from the US to the BVI. Storm Tactics by Lin Pardey (Amazon)  Other...

Is a Solar Oven for You?

12 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Lots of cruisers love solar ovens. What's not to like about cooking with the heat of the sun? Learn more to figure out if it's a good option for you. ...

Who's in Charge?

08 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Some considerations for deciding how long each person is in charge when you're sailing offshore. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that...

Why Your Boat Needs a Fire Blanket

05 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Sure, you have a fire extinguisher on your boat. But you still need a fire blanket. Here are a few reasons why.  Summary Fire blankets are crucial t...

Small Storage, Big Wins

01 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

A discussion of spices, knives, and deep storage - and how we make it work on Calypso. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat ...

Boat Salt & Pepper Shakers

28 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Salt can become a clumpy mess on a boat. But tight sealing shakers cane make a huge difference. These are our favorites. Links (Amazon links are affil...

Misery is Optional

24 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Weather rules all is easy to understand academically. It can be more challenging when you're gearing up for a passage. A look at how weather can affec...

Understanding Food Labels

21 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Do you or members of your crew suffer from food allergies? Then food labels are your friend. Here's what you need to know to get the best information....

Parking the Cruiser's Car

17 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

A couple of important things to remember about tying your dinghy to a public dock. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Gall...

Get More From a Hanging Locker

14 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Do you really need so much room for hanging clothes on your boat? if not, our solution might be a good change for your hanging locker. Here's an easy ...

Up That Heart Rate!

10 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Getting cardio exercise on while cruising can be as simple as up and down.   Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley P...

Thanksgiving on the Boat

07 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Worried that Thanksgiving on the boat just won't feel the same if you can't make all of your favorite recipes? It won't. But it can still be fun, fest...

No Second Sink?

03 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

A dish pan sized to fit a dish drying rack is a great solution for the times when you need a second sink - or you're happy letting dishes air dry, eve...

Do You Need an Airpot Onboard?

31 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

An airpot, like any good thermos, can be great for keeping cold drinks cold and hot drinks hot. But its convenient spout system makes it less likely t...

Hard Top Rationale

27 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Protection from wind and spray helps us be comfortable offshore. A hard dodger adds some extra benefits we really appreciate.  Links (Amazon links ar...

Why to Use Flexible Cutting Sheets

24 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Avoid cross-contamination. Move the items you've chopped without them flying all over the boat. And all without taking up lots of room? Yes, please. F...

Favorite Recipes from Calypso's Galley

20 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Three favorites that I reach for time and time again, from the house marinade to carrots and the special ingredient for homemade pizza I call crack. ...

Tips for Boat Schooling

17 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Taking your kids cruising but not a teacher? These tips will help you be the teacher your children need.  Links: Boat School Coaching - Sample Lesso...

Boat Show Optimization

13 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

From attitude to water bottles, some tips on how to make the most of your boat show experience. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that ...

Stay Onboard in a Hurricane?

10 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

We stayed onboard our boat when Category 1 Marty passed directly over. And I'd never do it again. But you have to make your own decision. And these ar...

DIY On Board

06 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Make a workable router table with some clamps and a 2x4. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qual...

Tower Stand-Up Paddle Boards

03 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Not everyone has room for a stand up paddle board on their cruising boat. But if it's inflatable? Then perhaps you can find a spot for it. Here's what...

5 Gallons to Happiness

29 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Why we think 3 buckets are essential to making life on the hard less onerous.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley ...

Best Lines for Hurricane Prep

26 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

When a hurricane is bearing down, you need to be sure of your lines. These 5 factors are crucial for giving your boat the best chance of survival. Lin...

Comfort Factor

22 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

A discussion of natural and mechanical ways to help air move more efficiently on board. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat...

How to DIY a Basic Cockpit Enclosure

19 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

You don't have spend thousands if you need an enclosure for a few, chilly boating seasons. Here's how we made an inexpensive DIY cockpit enclosure f...

Simple Sauce for Anything

15 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Versatility in recipes is a good thing. This sauce is good on almost anything you can think of - and it comes together in seconds.  Links (Amazon lin...

First Year - Part of the Refit?

12 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Even after investing lots of thought, research, and work on your boat your first year cruising is unlikely to be easy. Here's why you should consider ...

Spread the Load

08 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Reasons we chose G-10 for most of the backing blocks as we reinstalled deck hardware on Calypso.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning th...

Is Your Wind Scoop Working for You?

05 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

A traditional wind scoop needs to be adjusted if the wind shifts. But a 4-way (or omnidirectional) wind scoop funnels air from all directions. Here'...

Installing Formica On A Boat

01 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Formica is a fabulous material for use on board - as long as you install it yourself. There are a few tricks to keep in mind!   Links (Amazon links ...

How to Train Your Boat Dog

29 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

It's not always possible to dinghy your boat dog to shore several times a day. Time to start training your pup to potty onboard. Here's how.  Links ...

Dinghy Decisions

25 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

A new dinghy is an exercise in compromises. Understanding what you're looking for can help make the choice less daunting!  Links (Amazon links are af...

Are You Killing Your Spices?

22 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

A humid boat can ruin the freshness of your herbs and spices. But if you're doing this, you're making it even worse. Subscribe to the Boat Galley News...

Shower Solutions

18 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Showering on board, even when there's no pressure water, is simple and practical. Here are 2 ways to do it!  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links,...

Using a MOB AIS Locator

15 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

When crew goes overboard, minutes count. Technology can help you locate (and rescue) your lost crew. Here's how. Links (Amazon links are affiliate lin...

Onboard Exercises

11 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Staying active on the boat is easier when you've got some dedicated moves. Here are three!   Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that T...

Make a Space Saving Dish Drain

08 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Looking for a way to dry dishes without taking up valuable space in your galley? Take a look at one half of your double sink. Here's how to make it wo...

Surprising Sources for Boat Parts

04 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

6 places other than the big marine store names that we've found excellent materials for boat projects.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, mean...

Do You Need a SodaStream for Your Boat?

01 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Cruisers who like soda are always looking for ways to keep carbonated drinks on board without taking up valuable storage space. Is the SodaStream the ...

Simple Solutions: Ram Mounts

28 Jul 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Figuring out how to mount our new chart plotter was just one part of the whole puzzle.   Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The B...

Keeping Screws in Place

25 Jul 2022

Contributed by Lukas

How do you keep screws in place when you're working on boat jobs in awkward areas? There's a nifty tool that will make it much easier.   Links (Am...

Getting the Most Out of Cruising

21 Jul 2022

Contributed by Lukas

3 tips to successful cruising--Hint, not one of them is about your anchor. Links:   Nica email  Carolyn email  Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsle...

The Ultimate Answer

18 Jul 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Treating questions about cruising like a google search won't get you far. At least, not in a usable fashion.  Links:   Nica email  Carolyn email ...

Cleaning Interior Boat Teak

14 Jul 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Is your boat teak looking tired and dirty? Here's step-by-step instructions for cleaning your teak so it's as good as new.   Links (Amazon links a...

How to Keep Recipes on a Boat

11 Jul 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Do you have a collection of family favorite recipes? Perhaps on index cards in your grandmother's handwriting? Don't risk them. There are some easy wa...

Container Wars

07 Jul 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Based on experience, Nica shares some thoughts about deciding what kinds of storage containers might work for you.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate...

Boat Wiring Tools to Keep Onboard

04 Jul 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Simple boat electrical repairs are within your grasp. You just need a good guide, some basic tools, and a few supplies. Links (Amazon links are affili...

Blast Away!

30 Jun 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Questions to ask and things to think about if you're hiring a sandblaster to work on your boat. Hint: it's not a hands-off process!   Links:  Coppe...

Silicone Dish Mat - Galley Necessity

27 Jun 2022

Contributed by Lukas

A silicone dish mat can be very handy on a boat galley—especially this one. Here's why.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The...

Adaptable Breakfast

23 Jun 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Granola doesn't have to be expensive and only store-bought. Listen up to hear tips and my favorite recipe! Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, me...

Upgrade Your Boat's Fridge

20 Jun 2022

Contributed by Lukas

There are several things you need to consider before upgrading or replacing your boat refrigerator. Here's what they are and how to evaluate your choi...

Which Tube is Which?

16 Jun 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Picking which kind of sealant to use on your boat project can feel like a crapshoot. There really are some good questions to answer to find the right ...

Keep Track of Charging Cords

13 Jun 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Today's cruisers have so many items that require chargers. But if you can't find one when you need it, you're in big trouble. Here's one way to keep y...

Bread Machine - YES!

09 Jun 2022

Contributed by Lukas

An update on the bread machine, a year after purchase. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualif...

Yeast Bread Baking 101

06 Jun 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Are you new to baking yeast breads? Or have you failed to get the results you wanted? Here's step-by-step tips to help your bread come out just righ...

Picking Weather Windows

02 Jun 2022

Contributed by Lukas

The value of departure planning when making a passage. FastSeas Weather Routing  Chris Parker Marine Weather Forecasts  Nica email   Carolyn email...

Stop Leaks Fast!

30 May 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Don't let tiny cracks let water into your boat where it doesn't belong. Use this penetrating sealant that's great for keeping water out of your deck c...

Anchoring Dictionary

26 May 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Four essential anchoring terms, with definitions. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying ...

Prepping for a Hurricane

23 May 2022

Contributed by Lukas

When a hurricane is bearing down, you might feel overwhelmed. But having a list of tasks can help you stay in control. Here's my checklist to make it ...

1 Anchor, 2 Boats

19 May 2022

Contributed by Lukas

3 tips for rafting up successfully. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying purchases; som...

Test Your Galley Stainless

16 May 2022

Contributed by Lukas

How do you know your flatware will stand up to the salt and moisture on your boat? Here's a simple tip for testing the quality of your galley stainles...

Sandpaper 101

12 May 2022

Contributed by Lukas

A critical component of any toolbox, sandpaper has some quirks to be aware of. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley P...

Eleuthera Cruising Tips

09 May 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Where can you get supplies? Boat parts? And most of all, beautiful anchorages? Learn the ins and outs of cruising in Eleuthera.  Links (Amazon links...

Small is Big Enough

05 May 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Painting the boat helps us realize how much we love our little vessel.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast...

Grow a Boat Garden

02 May 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Nothing beats fresh greens on a boat. So why not grow your own? Here's one cruiser's method for you to try.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links...

Tips for Homemade Yogurt!

28 Apr 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Just 2 ingredients and 2 tools - that's all that's needed to make your very own yogurt.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Bo...

You're Gonna Stink; Do It Anyway

25 Apr 2022

Contributed by Lukas

When you start cruising, you're going to do all kinds of new things badly. If you accept that from the beginning, you'll have a much better time. Subs...

Wax Off, Wax On

21 Apr 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Making sure the new paint will stick to the surface is the goal of prepping it well. Sometimes you have to take even new paint off.  Links (Amazon li...

Boat Meals in a Hurry

18 Apr 2022

Contributed by Lukas

You can't just order pizza when you're hungry and tired but living on the hook. But there are quick and easy meals you can toss together in no time. H...

The Myth of Cheap Boats

14 Apr 2022

Contributed by Lukas

The true costs of a project boat shouldn't be underestimated. Money is one cost. Time is another. Neither should be taken lightly.  Links (Amazon li...

How to Troubleshoot

11 Apr 2022

Contributed by Lukas

When something fails on your boat, what is the best way to troubleshoot the problem? Here's a method that will help you find the answer, efficiently. ...

The Workhorse of the Galley

07 Apr 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Boat-specific things to think about if you're redoing the galley and getting a new sink   Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The ...

Don't Be Scared of Getting Hurt

04 Apr 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Want to be more adventurous? Then it's time to stop being scared of getting hurt. Ouchies happen. But they don't have to ruin the fun.  Links (Amazo...

Paint Prep Parts

31 Mar 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Different tools for sanding and why we like each one. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualify...

Best Hand Mixing Tools

28 Mar 2022

Contributed by Lukas

No, you don't need mixers and food processors to bake on a boat. Learn about some great hand mixing tools to make baking easier.  Links (Amazon link...

Date All the Things

24 Mar 2022

Contributed by Lukas

A simple trick to help you learn exactly what you need to provision. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast ear...

How to Store Paper Goods on a Boat

21 Mar 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Do you know how to keep paper products on a boat? Without them getting wet or attracting bugs? Here's what you need to know.  Links (Amazon links ar...

Weird Woodworking Words

17 Mar 2022

Contributed by Lukas

One of the joys of refitting a boat can be in learning new language. Words might not mean what you think they mean!  Links (Amazon links are affiliat...

Lessen Windage on your Boat

14 Mar 2022

Contributed by Lukas

When a hurricane is coming, you've gotta reduce the stress hurricane winds will cause. Learn what you need to remove or tie down.   Links: Hurrica...

Best Ever Bruschetta Topping

10 Mar 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Having multiple jars of your favorite condiment on hand can make cooking easier. Even for sundowners!   Links: Trader Joes Locations   Homemade Roa...

Are You Ready for an Emergency?

07 Mar 2022

Contributed by Lukas

The key to your boat surviving an emergency like water coming in or a fire is being ready for it. Preparation is key.  Links (Amazon links are affil...

A Place for Everything

03 Mar 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Knowing where things go on board can be the key to happiness. Really!   Links: Nica email  Carolyn email  Today's episode of The Boat Galley Podca...

The 2nd Rule of Boat Provisioning

28 Feb 2022

Contributed by Lukas

If you're not careful, you could end up with a cruising boat filled with stuff you will never eat. Avoid it by following the second rule of provisioni...

Superman in Pan Form

24 Feb 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Space saving is also about practicality - and having a pan that serves many functions tops both lists.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, mean...

Always Store This in the Fridge

21 Feb 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Yes, fridge space is tight on a boat. But there's no point in keeping stuff elsewhere if it just goes bad. Here's what you always need to refrigerate....

Free Reading FTW

17 Feb 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Library cards are often available, for free, for the asking. Here's what to check and why you want one! Links: Brooklyn Library Nica email   Carolyn...