The Boat Galley

Overcoming Fear at Sea - 3 Tools

14 Feb 2022

Contributed by Lukas

You may experience fear when you start cruising. But you don't have to be its slave. Learn some helpful tools to help you defeat anxiety while underwa...

Tool Talk: Galley Time

10 Feb 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Making sure you have the galley equipment that's right for you takes some thinking. Here's how to help.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, mea...

Gain Your Cruising Instincts

07 Feb 2022

Contributed by Lukas

You can learn a lot in classes. Or by watching videos. But there's only one way to gain the instincts every cruiser needs. Links (Amazon links are aff...

Cell Phone Plans, 2021 Style

03 Feb 2022

Contributed by Lukas

We've switched cell phone plans - why and to what! Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying...

Intro to Boat Battery Types

31 Jan 2022

Contributed by Lukas

There are pros and cons to each of the different battery types for your cruising boat. Learn the basics before you need to replace your battery bank. ...

It Takes a Village

27 Jan 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Gratitude for those who have helped us so much. Links:  Nica email   Carolyn email  Today's episode of The Boat Galley Podcast is sponsored by Man...

Protect a Cockpit Mic from the Sun

24 Jan 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Daily sun exposure made the display screen on our cockpit's VHF radio microphone useless. But here's a simple way to protect yours. And it doesn't tak...

Project New Mainsail Cover

20 Jan 2022

Contributed by Lukas

4 decisions we needed to make when building the new stack pack. Links:  Sailrite Stack Pack Video Nica email  Carolyn email  Want to sample t...

How Did You Leave the Boat?

17 Jan 2022

Contributed by Lukas

If you have to leave the boat for a while, it's easy to forget how you left things. Avoid expensive mistakes. Here's my best tip for knowing how you l...

List Organization, Yet Again

13 Jan 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Figuring out what needs doing by what's gone wrong. Links:  Nica email   Carolyn email    Looking for a one-stop-shop for all your Pacif...

Fire on the Boat!

10 Jan 2022

Contributed by Lukas

A moment of inattention led to a fire. The good news is we knew what to do. But it could have been disastrous. Here's what you can learn from our bad ...

Building on What Has Come Before

06 Jan 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Learning from others is never bad. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying purchases; some...

Fixing Galley Oven Problems

03 Jan 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Older boat ovens have some common issues, from low temps to uneven baking. Here are some simple solutions to help you use your propane boat oven more ...

Bring Home the Bounty

30 Dec 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Got provisions? Now get them home to the boat! Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying pur...

How to Wash Dishes on a Boat

27 Dec 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Hand dishwashing isn't rocket science. But a few tips from an experienced cruiser will help you save water and get dishes clean with less effort. Leav...

Provisioning Barometer

23 Dec 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Provisioning for coastal cruising has its own challenges. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qua...

How to Plan a Fridge Upgrade

20 Dec 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Installing or upgrading a boat refrigerator takes some thought. Here's what you need to know about boat fridges to make the right choice for you.  ...

OPB: The Best Way to Sail?

16 Dec 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Links: Cigale 16  Nica email Carolyn email Looking for a one-stop-shop for all your Pacific Northwest cruising needs? NW Explorations offers barebo...

Cruising is Hard. Why Do It?

13 Dec 2021

Contributed by Lukas

One cruiser who admits his fears explains why he does it.  Looking for a one-stop-shop for all your Pacific Northwest cruising needs? NW Explorati...

3 On Board Exercise Tips

09 Dec 2021

Contributed by Lukas

My 3 best tips to help you start intentionally exercising on board. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earn...

How to Keep Stuff From Sliding

06 Dec 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Tired of dishes sliding down the counter? Pet bowls skidding down the sole? Or game nights were cards won't stay put? Here are 4 easy ways to keep any...

Hauling Out IS Cruising

02 Dec 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Reality check about going cruising and needing to miss some fun for projects. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Po...

Keeping Food in a Cooler

29 Nov 2021

Contributed by Lukas

No fridge? No problem. You can do quite well using a cooler to keep food. Just follow a few tips to keep things cold, easy-to-find, and not soggy from...

Cruising Annapolis

25 Nov 2021

Contributed by Lukas

A few details about life in Annapolis when you're visiting by water  Links: Annapolis Harbor Master    Nica email   Carolyn email  This ep...

Storing Drinks in your Boat Fridge

22 Nov 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In hot climates, you'll want and need cold drinks. But don't waste energy. Do a little pre-planning to make storing cold drinks in your boat refrigera...

The Sundowner Tradition

18 Nov 2021

Contributed by Lukas

A few reasons cruisers bring their own drinks when invited over for cocktail hour.   Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Bo...

Add Insulation to Your Boat Fridge

15 Nov 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In a hot climate, your batteries will use a lot of power on your fridge. Make it a little easier for them. Add some insulation to your refrigerator—...

Testing the New Systems

11 Nov 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Testing all the new stuff, from engine to autopilot, gave us new appreciation for the work we've done. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meanin...

Best Tips for Using a Baking Stone

08 Nov 2021

Contributed by Lukas

A baking stone is ideal for a boat oven—no more hot spots or unevenly baked items. Here's how to get the most out of yours.  Links (Amazon links ar...

Newport, RI: More Than Glamour

04 Nov 2021

Contributed by Lukas

A mini cruising guide to Newport, just for cruisers. Links: Newport Harbor Master   Cliff Walk  Nica email   Carolyn email   Today's ep...

Boat Problems Add Up - How to Deal

01 Nov 2021

Contributed by Lukas

One wiring choice led to a chain of events that had us putting out figurative fires for two weeks. Here's what you can learn from our experience.  L...

NYC Transit When the UN is Meeting

28 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Details on how to go through NYC when the United Nations is meeting.  Links: United Nations Meeting Schedule    Coast Guard Advisory Notices...

What's Cruising Really Like?

25 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Is cruising the right life for you? What does it cost? What is it really like? Learn from someone who has been there. Links (Amazon links are affiliat...

New England - it's not only Maine!

21 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

4 reasons we can't wait to get back north next summer  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qu...

Choose the Right Emergency Contact

18 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

If the worst happens, you want the right emergency contact (or contacts) in your corner. Here's how to choose.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate li...

Custom Propane Storage

14 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

4 things to consider when making your own propane box. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualif...

Starting to Cruise--Overwhelmed?

11 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

When you're preparing to cruise, it's common to feel overwhelmed. Here's some advice from someone who's been there to help you relax. Today's episod...

FOMO is Real but It Doesn't Matter

07 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

When we didn't make it to all the hot cruising spots, we found some incredible ones we'd not expected.   Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, me...

Emergency Info - Keep it Available

04 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

If something went wrong your boat, would a guest or stranger know what to do? They can. If you make important emergency info available--and easy to fi...

Essential Weather Lessons

30 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Understanding weather is key to safe and comfortable cruising. Don't press your luck!  Links: National Hurricane Center Windy - Wind Prediction...

Check Your Gear!

27 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

To stay safe, don't forget to check your gear before you need to rely on it. Do it regularly.       Links (Amazon links are affiliate links...

Registering an EPIRB

23 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Practical tips on how to register your boat's locator beacon  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns ...

Gulf Stream Info for Planning

20 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

To plan a safe, efficient, and comfortable crossing of the Gulf Stream, you need information. Here's how to find it. Links (Amazon links are affiliate...

Projects to Move By!

16 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

When the cruising season is waning, and you want to move, you need to really narrow the list of projects that have to be done to get sailing. They fa...

Does Your Boat Need an Oven?

13 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

An oven is great for baking and roasting meat but it takes up a lot of space. Which do you value more?  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, mean...

Swat Away!

09 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

You DEFINITELY need a fly swatter!  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying purchases; so...

Make a Float Plan - The Easy Way

06 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

A float plan only helps you stay safe if you include the right information and put it into the right hands. Learn what every cruiser needs to know abo...

Paperwork Pandemonium

02 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Documentation? Registration? Which do I need!  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying pu...

How to Hire a Diver

30 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

If you're going to rely on someone else to clean your boat bottom or replace your zincs, here's what you need to know to get the best job. Links: Cour...

Last Second Hustle and Bustle

26 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Even though we had an additional 4 days on the hard, we still had to scramble to be ready to splash!  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meanin...

Getting Your Propane Burner Lit

23 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

If you've never done it, lighting a propane stove can be a challenge. Learn what you have to do and why it keeps you safe. Today's episode of The Boa...

Hailing Port

19 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

We finally realize we can choose where home is.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying ...

When You Need an Emergency Toilet!

16 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

When your head goes down, you need to be prepared. These backpacking toilets take up little room and are handy to have on board. Links (Amazon links a...

With a Little Help From Friends

13 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Generosity is part of the cruiser code, even when you're not actively cruising. We benefit this time around! Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, ...

Should You Cruise with Kids?

09 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Boat kids are some of the most interesting people we've met. Learn from cruisers with kids how they manage it. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links...

Buying A Second Boat

05 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Boats tug on the emotions, especially those with back stories. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns fro...

Why Use a Thermal Cooker?

02 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

I've found a thermal cooker to be such a helpful item to have on board. It keeps the boat from heating up while still giving us a hot meal with little...

Storage as Interior Design

29 Jul 2021

Contributed by Lukas

The simple task of folding a blanket turns into a practical solution for 2 on board challenges. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that ...

Baking Onboard in the Heat

26 Jul 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Some cruisers don't cook or bake in hot weather. But I do. Here's why. And how we manage the extra heat on the boat. Links (Amazon links are affiliate...

Don't Suck!

22 Jul 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Insert business end into the container to be drained and shake away. Watch out for the gush on the other end! Links (Amazon links are affiliate links,...

Organizing Boat First Aid Supplies

19 Jul 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Yes, you need lots of first aid supplies. But is a giant box of supplies the best method? Or is there a better way? Links (Amazon links are affiliate ...

Ladders and Buckets

15 Jul 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Some questions (and answers) about living in a boatyard. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qual...

16 Tips for Filling a Thru-Hull

12 Jul 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Planning a DIY thru-hull job? The standard instructions don't tell you everything you need to make this hot, messy job just a little easier. But I do....

Outside the Box

08 Jul 2021

Contributed by Lukas

4 questions to contemplate as you decide where to take your boat for storm season. It's a very personal decision! Links (Amazon links are affiliate li...

Keep Track of What's in the Fridge

05 Jul 2021

Contributed by Lukas

It's easy to let food rot when you don't know what's in the fridge. Or when you forget the meals you've planned. Here's an easy way to keep track. Lin...

We Live on a BOAT!

01 Jul 2021

Contributed by Lukas

From moving the fridge to making the bed, the first day on Calypso was one for the books.   Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that...

Make Battery Watering Easier

28 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

It's important to water your wet cell batteries to keep them working well. Here's a system that makes this important job easier.  Links (Amazon link...

Provisioning, in 3 Steps

24 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Before you can cook the food on board, you need to get it on board. Here are some ways provisioning differs from mere grocery shopping. Links (Amazon ...

Pressure Water on the Go - Aquabot

21 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

I tried everything to save water rinsing dishes and doing other tasks. Nothing worked. Until I found the Aquabot.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate...

Go With The Flow

17 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Part of our refit includes redoing our entire onboard plumbing system. The only part we're reusing? One single foot pump.  Links (Amazon links are...

Cruisers Pay It Forward

14 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

No matter what your cruising grounds, you'll find your fellow adventurers always willing to help. It's the cruiser's way.  Today's episode of The Bo...

1 Fast Way to Increase Storage

10 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Huge spaces look good on board but aren't very useful. Here's a fast and easy way to make the most of your awesome storage. Links (Amazon links are af...

How to Fix Cloudy Boat Windows

07 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Was replacing our boat windows in our future? Not after we discovered this product that cleared them our for a fraction of the cost. Links: Prism Poli...

The Different Sounds When You Leave

03 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Moving aboard often requires moving out of somewhere else. When you clear out, even for a highly-anticipated new life, it's striking how loud and empt...

Hurricane Prep in 11 Steps

31 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

When a hurricane is bearing down, you can't guarantee your boat will survive. But you can improve the odds. Here's how. Links (Amazon links are affili...

2 Kinds of Lists

27 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Figuring out what projects MUST be done in order to meet a certain deadline can mean really understanding the definition of "critical." Being ruthles...

Is Organizing Worth It?

24 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

The secret to making the most of limited space on a boat may be about more than just filling your lockers with stuff. Links (Amazon links are affiliat...

Overnight Success? Not so Fast!

20 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

One weekend, five projects done. That's some superhero level accomplishment right there.   Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that ...

Pack These When Chartering

17 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

The charter company tells you the galley will have all you need. But it's not quite true. Here's what you should plan to bring with you.  Links (Ama...

Bigger Sizes Better? Not So Fast!

13 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Buying coffee leads to a revelation about the false economy of buying in bulk. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley P...

Living in a Boatyard

10 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Living in a boatyard isn't easy. But you can run your galley and your life well if you keep a few things in mind. Links (Amazon links are affiliate li...

Can We Call It a New Boat?

06 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

We're in the process of redoing almost the whole boat. What we're doing - and why we decided a different boat was not for us.   Links (Amazon lin...

Don't Keep the Water Running

03 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

One cruiser's close call reminds us of a good lesson to keep your boat safe when things go wrong.   Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meani...

3 Favorite Varnish Tips and Tricks

29 Apr 2021

Contributed by Lukas

More than any mere paint, varnish especially on board is a labor of love. How do you make this task less onerous? We've found 2 products and 1 piece o...

Cruising Without a Fridge

26 Apr 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Whether your fridge fails or you never had one, you can eat well onboard. Here's what you need to know to make it work on your boat.  Links: Storing...

2 Main Reasons We Bought a Bread Machine

22 Apr 2021

Contributed by Lukas

When buying a single-use appliance is justified in the name of self-sufficiency . . . Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat G...

How to Store Coffee Onboard

19 Apr 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Boats aren't ideal for storing coffee. But with a few basics, you can keep it fresh and tasting delicious for that morning cuppa in the cockpit.  Li...

The Critical Wood Strips You Never See

15 Apr 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Spending time on the support system for counters and bulkheads is worth the effort.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat G...

Keeping Zippers From Getting Stuck

12 Apr 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Salt is the enemy of zippers on a boat. Avoid frustration with this nifty product to keep your zippers from getting ruined onboard.  Links (Amazon l...

2 Best Ways to Sabotage Progress

08 Apr 2021

Contributed by Lukas

The project list is long; there are ways to make it even longer.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns...

Steering (not) Straight

01 Apr 2021

Contributed by Lukas

When building something new means fixing something old - project creep again! Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Po...

Food Safety Tips for Cruisers

29 Mar 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Yes, you can eat almost anything. You just need to take some basic precautions. Here's what cruisers need to know. Links (Amazon links are affiliate l...

Filling the Cruising Kitty

25 Mar 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Being clear on the (legal) ways to make money while cruising is a good idea.   Totem blog post on same topic   Nica email  Carolyn email  ...

ID Tags for Cruisers

22 Mar 2021

Contributed by Lukas

If you're away from the boat and can't speak, how do you share important information? Here's why you need smart ID. Links (Amazon links are affiliate ...

The Pirates We Met

18 Mar 2021

Contributed by Lukas

We were primed by location and recent experience to expect the worst. What we got was a much better reminder of human nature.   Links (Amazon links...

How to Bake Without an Oven

15 Mar 2021

Contributed by Lukas

No oven on your boat? Missing fresh baked bread or other goodies? Than I have good news for you—the Omnia Stove Top Oven bakes great. Links (Amazon ...

Repurposing Materials

11 Mar 2021

Contributed by Lukas

It feels great to use someone else's cast offs for boat projects. This frugality comes at a price – and offers pride. Links (Amazon links are affil...

How to Spring Clean the Boat Galley

08 Mar 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Whether you're leaving your boat for a while or just want to do a thorough cleaning, this is what you need to do to keep your galley sparkling, workin...

5 Must-Have Pieces of Galley Gear

05 Mar 2021

Contributed by Lukas

You can get overwhelmed trying to think of everything you might need in your galley. But if you start with these 5 items, you'll be in good shape.  ...

The Rabbit Hole of Boat Projects

04 Mar 2021

Contributed by Lukas

What seems like a simple like-for-like exchange turns into a maze of extras. Links:  Defender  Carolyn email  Nica email  Today's episode ...