In our last post, we discussed five essential tips when provisioning your boat for extended periods of cruising. It is equally important to organize our boat, and especially the galley, so that you can maximize space for all your essential items. Before heading out, here are some tips to for making the most out of your galley layout:
- If boating is seasonal in your area, the best time to prepare the galley is during spring. It is the time to do an inventory on what is needed on board and wash everything that needs to be cleaned. To keep the lockers from marring, cut to size vinyl carpet to line lockers. They can be easily removed for cleaning.
- In lockers where dishes, condiments, and spices are stowed, non skid runners are very useful. When used as a placemat, the runner keeps plates from sliding on the table.
- Even with lockers that have doors, there are is still the risk of them accidentally opening. When this happens, items tend to shift or fall out. Make sure to put items from cans, jars, and packets in high clear containers that fit snugly on the shelf. Also, use round plastic containers to store things as well. It’s sort of like a puzzle; you will have to experiment with several types of containers to get the best fit for your storage area. Removing provisions from their boxes will take up less space and avoid having insects laying eggs in the boxes.
- You can’t get enough of plastic ware when boating. Use it to store flour, sugar, baking goods, crackers, chips, and leftovers. It keeps food fresh and it keeps other things out. Extra plastic bottles are also useful for storing liquid like laundry detergent from foil bags. Spare water bottles are also handy.
- Noise alert? Rubber insulated containers keep glass items from making noise. For teacups and coffee mugs, cut a slit on one side to fit the handles. Pots and pans rattle every time the boat moves, so come up with a system for storing them without unnecessary noise.
- Fruits and vegetables will last longer if they are exposed to air. Hang a fruit hammock in the cabin that is well-mounted. Positioning is key though. It should be placed at the centerline of the boat to swing athwart when the boat is heeled.
Be sure to search our extensive database of boat slips for rent or boat slips for sale if you are looking for a permanent home for your boat or just a need a short term destination during your cruising adventures. For tips on searching for the ideal location to dock your boat, please visit our article on boat slip search tips.
