The Boat Galley

Thanksgiving when cruising can be challenging. Today I look at past celebrations aboard. Summary: Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. This year, however, we're 5000 miles away from home. It could be easy to feel sad...

If you've never checked into a marina or mooring field before, how do you learn? Here are the procedures and best practices. Summary: When you're headed to a new marina or mooring field, prepare ahead of time by...

Dealing with a sick crew member aboard. Here are a couple of ways to address illness on the boat. Summary: How do you manage if someone gets sick on the boat? The good news, based on my experience, is that it happens...

Cruising offers many challenges. But it shouldn't feel like a slog. And if it does, maybe a few simple changes will make it more pleasurable. Summary All beginning cruisers look forward to the best part of the lifestyle...

A Tuamotus shopping experience w here the ship is a store. Buying directly from the supply ship in Takaroa was a lovely cruising lesson Summary Cruising offers opportunities to have many new experiences and to learn new...

If you make strong boat wiring connections the first time, you won't have to redo them later. Here are the best tips I've learned from years of doing wiring jobs on the boat. Summary: You won't find these tips in any...

For those picture perfect days that defy description . . . , Or how the unexpected joy of sailing in the Tuamotus leads to a new term. Summary Working on Calypso in the boatyard wasn't always fun. In fact, many days...

Do you have enough power available to run all the equipment you want to use on your boat? Here are some simple calculations to ensure you have all the power you need, when you need it. Summary New cruisers are often...

How a blank book became a lovely way to remember guests who came aboard for a meal. Summary A guestbook is a great way to save memories of your cruise. But you can make it even more if you allow guests more time and...

Briefing boat guests will ensure everyone stays safe and comfortable aboard. If you are taking people out on your boat, a safety briefing is critical. Summary If you're taking guests out on your boat, one of the most...

Cabbage is the ultimate cruiser vegetable with endless options. Here are 10 ways Nica uses cabbage on board. Summary Cabbage is a perfect vegetable for cruising. It stores well, is nutritious, and can be used in so many...

You need to ask about more than price when you're hauling your boat out at a yard. These are some questions to ask to avoid being unhappy and unable to relaunch your vessel. Summary: You need to ask about more than...

In honor of episode 800, we revisit a favorite recipe from The Boat Galley Cookbook--homemade yogurt. All it takes is a few tools, a couple of ingredients, and some time. Try it! Summary I first made yogurt from Carolyn...

Farmers markets are a great provisioning option for cruisers. Produce is often fresher and less bruised. And if it hasn't been refrigerated, it will keep longer on your boat. Summary Farmers markets are a great...

Always Be (able to) Cook, that is. These are t hree kinds of spares to make sure you have aboard to be truly self-sufficient. Summary: Redundancy is a crucial aspect of being a self-sufficient cruiser. But it's vital in...