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Yacht Cruising Lifestyle

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Setting Up the Perfect Boat Galley

March 19, 2021 by Travis Turgeon Leave a Comment

Living on a boat comes with countless challenges, but few can cause more frustration than a poorly designed galley. It’s tough enough to cook a great-tasting meal that everyone enjoys in a standard kitchen, but managing that in a swaying, confined space with limited resources can make you want to hurl yourself overboard. A perfect boat galley is well-designed, highly functional, and safe to use. Below, we cover everything you’ll need to know to make the most out of your space.

The Boat Galley

Boat galleys vary in a ton of different ways. Size, layout, storage, proximity – the list goes on. Each boat will require a slightly different setup than the next, but certain features are beneficial across the board.

Boat Galley Basics

Boat Galley Location

From cooking and cleaning to remaining mobile and social, the location of a galley can dramatically impact your culinary experience at sea. The galley should be accessible from both the cockpit and saloon, well ventilated and in an area that is less prone to boat roll than other areas. Placement at the foot of the boat’s companionway is ideal, as it satisfies the three considerations mentioned above. Those with multiple roles on the boat will enjoy this location as they make trips above and below deck. Each boat will have a different setup, though, so be sure to consider the specifics for you and your crew. What works for some will be less than ideal for others. 

Boat Galley Layout

The shape and layout of your space will dictate how you set up your kitchen and arrange your boat galley accessories. Three standard layouts for a boat galley exist – Linear, L-Shaped, or U-Shaped. L-Shaped and U-Shaped galleys are more commonly found on offshore cruisers, as the design provides more support and security when the boat is rolling. They also keep spaces and cooking accessories nearby for a busy evening as the lead cook.

While these confined layouts are more suitable for safety and convenience, they reduce the overall ability to be creative in the kitchen. Less space means you have to be more mindful of the equipment you’re using, as well as how many dishes you can prepare at once. It would be best if you determined your galley’s layout by evaluating how many people are on board, how often you’ll be cooking during open-water passages, and how creative a cook you are in the first place. 

Functionality  

Gimballed Boat Appliances 

A gimbal is a single-axis support system on which objects pivot to stay level, even when their surroundings are not. Having gimbaled boat appliances is essential to cooking safely, especially when making long passages in inclement weather. The most common boat appliance to mount on a gimbal is a stove and oven. Gimballed boat appliances are lockable when not in use, so you can use the equipment as usual when at anchor or docked in the marina. 

Logical Refrigeration Placement

While modern boat galleys are becoming more logical in their design and layout, there are often things that leave us scratching our heads when looking at older vessels. Unfortunately, one of the most common issues we see is the placement of refrigeration and freezer units. Whether due to space restrictions or simple neglect, we see these cooling units installed near engine rooms, ovens, or in areas with minimal ventilation. For obvious reasons, placement in these areas will drastically reduce energy efficiency and drive up costs. When looking to buy a used boat or renovate your existing galley, make energy efficiency a primary consideration.

Boat Galley Convenience Features

Double-Basin Sink

While this is, of course, a subjective opinion, many offshore cruisers prefer to equip their boat’s galley with a deep, double-basin sink. Deeper basins offer a few advantages, although not every person will see them as essential.

The main advantage is the ability to soak your dishes without worrying about water overflowing when the boat rolls. However, if you’re only cooking for a few people, you can manage this with a shallow sink as well. The selling point for most is the double basins. With two basins, you can use one for washing and draining while the other serves as a soaking station. After all, efficiency is the name of the game in such a small and limited cooking space. If you aren’t using one of the basins, you can increase your counter space by placing a fitted cutting board or surface over the second basin. Depending on the meal, you may require more space or an assistant in the kitchen. 

Locking Cupboard, Drawer, and Oven Latches

Installing lockable latches to anything with a swinging door or a sliding drawer is the best way to prevent things from coming open during a passage. Not only are you risking breaking your kitchenware, but you’re potentially turning ordinary household items into dangerous, high-speed projectiles. These latches are cheap, easy to install and provide peace of mind for a more relaxed journey.

Vertical Cupboard Dowels

Another infinitely helpful boat galley accessory is vertical dowels, installations to keep glasses in place and prevent breakage. You can also use dowels to stack plates and bowls, although most find the best use for them to hold their precious wine glasses and beer mugs. Ensure you won’t be drinking your wine from plastic cups by installing these boat galley accessories in your cupboards.

Wall-Mounted Racks

Having wall-mounted racks in strategic locations around the galley can help the chef stay organized and uncluttered without sacrificing accessibility for items like oil and spices. If your wall rack doesn’t have a security band or horizontal dowel to keep items secure, you can easily install a bungee cord to keep things from moving around. 

Boat Galley Safety Features

Grab Rails and Handles

When it comes to the boat galley, you need to consider safety a top priority. If not, you’ll quickly find out why this is such a pressing matter. One of the biggest threats to a cook is the prospect of being tossed across the galley. One of the best ways to prevent this from happening is by having handles and grab-rails within reach, although some prefer tether systems. The debate will likely continue through eternity, but most long-term cruisers seem to prefer handles and grab-rails as it keeps them mobile in case of emergency. 

Tether System 

Depending on who you ask, tether systems that hold a cook in place are extremely useful or extremely dangerous. Most seem to think they are more dangerous than beneficial, but those with knee or back injuries may find them invaluable in keeping them stable and safe in the kitchen. When cooking on a boat during a rough passage, being tied in place directly in front of hot liquids, fire and pans can be dangerous. If any of those things spill in your direction, burns and bruises are sure to follow. Handles and grab-rails are a common alternative to tether systems, but debates on a better design can become heated depending on who you ask. 

Boat Galley Upgrade Considerations

Another method to improve refrigeration efficiency is to create an “organization plan.” Installing shelves and drawers will help with organization and space efficiency, and using color-coded labels can help with the quick identification of any item.

Hand and Foot Pump Faucets

Using your freshwater supply to clean dishes is far from economical, so installing a hand or foot pump to the faucet is a great way to minimize the use of your limited resources. Cleaning your dishes with seawater is not only easy, but the resources to do so are completely free. You can arrange hand pumps and foot pumps however you prefer, but a common method is to hook a hand pump to freshwater and a foot pump to seawater. Just clean your dishes with soap and saltwater, and give a quick rinse with fresh water to conserve your onboard resources. You can take the conservation efforts a step further by filling a spray bottle with fresh water to rinse dishes. Although a hand or foot pump uses minimal water, a spray bottle uses even less. 

Stainless Steel Boat Appliances

Everything from your kitchen sinks to refrigerators and stovetops is subject to deterioration from salt while at sea. Most new vessels come equipped with all stainless steel appliances for just that reason, but certain models cut costs by supplying the galley with boat appliances made of other materials. If you have boat appliances or kitchenware constructed with anything other than stainless steel, it’s worth considering an upgrade. By spending money on items constructed with high-quality material now, you can avoid higher-cost replacements down the road. 

Boat Galley Lighting

Poor lighting in your boat’s galley can create a dull and uninspired atmosphere, so upgrading your existing lights to LEDs can help liven the mood. Apart from your mental health, LEDs are far more efficient than standard bulbs, which reduces long-term energy costs. Consider installing additional lights to areas above the sink, stove, or countertops. Some LED lights can switch from red to white light, which is beneficial when setting the appropriate mood. 

Port / Hatch Enlargements – Ventilation

Your boat’s galley is the space that needs the most ventilation – for comfortability, safety, and health. When cooking on a boat with propane, it’s crucial to have a well-ventilated kitchen space. Natural gases tend to be denser than air, which means that the gases will “fall” beneath the lower deck if a leak goes unnoticed. Once below deck, the heat can cause combustion to occur, endangering everyone on board or near the boat. Improper use of propane has killed and injured many cruisers in the past, so be sure to prepare appropriately if you decide to use propane as a fuel source. On that note, install gas monitors for further protection. 

Galley Cookware and Accessories

With a small amount of planning and preparation, cooking on a boat in a small galley can be enjoyable. Some of the most important considerations to make are the essentials and non-essentials for kitchen cookware and boat galley accessories.

Boat Galley Essentials

Pressure Cooker

Pressure cookers are the perfect answer to your multi-purpose needs in a boat kitchen. With the steam vent left open, a pressure cooker serves as a standard pot for all daily meals you would prepare in a kitchen at home.

Closed, your cooking time decreases drastically, making those long-haul passages in inclement weather nothing short of a breeze. Although most people who venture into the cruising lifestyle don’t have a ton of previous experience with pressure cookers, the learning curve is exceptionally shallow. You can master it in nearly no time. 

Nesting Pots and Pans

Dual-purpose kitchen cookware covers all of your bases without stocking up on too many unnecessary items. Further, having nesting cookware is the key ingredient in keeping storage space efficient and uncluttered. Simply put, nesting cookware cascades in size, allowing you to stack each item inside one another. Once you clean them, stack them together, and viola – efficiency at its finest.

Tin Foil and Freezer Bags

Two of the most challenging items to find in foreign countries, whether in the south Pacific or the Caribbean, are heavy-duty tin foil and freezer bags. Keeping your perishables fresh and delicious becomes extremely difficult without the proper boat galley accessories, and these two items are at the top of the list. 

Anything and Everything Silicone

Silicone products are a full-time cruiser’s best friend, making life easy in a variety of ways. Silicone mats allow you to bake without using oil or parchment, are easy to clean, save on storage space, and provide slip-resistant surfaces for any area in the galley. Collapsible mixing bowls and measuring cups are unbreakable, light, and space-efficient. 

Almost all silicone kitchen items can serve multiple purposes, as they are heat resistant, soft, and have gripping properties. Not only are silicone products highly functional, but they are also stylish and colorful – bringing even the dullest of kitchens to life. 

High-Quality Knives

Having just a few high-quality, sharp knives on board makes a world of difference for the seasoned chef. In this case, quality over quantity has never been so important. Stainless steel material is the go-to in saltwater environments. High-quality knives make it easy to serve multiple purposes without sacrificing storage space or functionality. 

Boat Galley Storage

Living on a boat will turn even the messiest of us into overly neat and well-organized human beings, but this only happens through trial and error without proper direction. Luckily, information is right at our fingertips these days.

Dry Storage

Storage Hammocks

Keeping dry goods such as fruits, vegetables, and spices in a storage hammock is a great way to conserve your cupboard space in the boat galley. Storage hammocks are just what you would imagine them to be. They are small, mesh nets that hang as a hammock does above your sink or stovetop – just try to keep them out of the way of cabinet doors and drawers.

Many experienced boat cooks keep the essential items here for easy access and quick use while preparing meals. The hammock swings just slightly when sailing through rough seas, but they are far from a nuisance if you install them in an ideal location. 

Rotating Cupboard Shelves

Instead of pulling out every spice jar to reach the back of the cupboard, install a rotating shelf to make life easier on yourself. Emptying your whole cabinet during passage is a huge inconvenience, and keeping everything secure can become a hassle. You can install rotating shelves as multi-tiered vertical fixtures, so you can use each shelf to organize in a sensible way for your galley. 

Refrigerator Storage

Knowing What Needs Cooled

Not all foods need cold storage for safe consumption. Having a good understanding of which items in your kitchen need cooling will save you space and energy, so familiarize yourself with the requirements of the foods you keep onboard.

Grains, rice, flour, fruits, vegetables, and many other items sealed in jars don’t need cooling for healthy consumption. Follow this LINK for estimated keep times of various food items commonly held on a boat.

Top-Loading Refrigerator 

Generally, top-loading refrigeration units are open and empty spaces without bins or trays for a personalized organization. When people first try to figure out the best way to organize their cold foods, they often just stack things wherever seems easy and convenient. For most, this leads to developing bad habits that ultimately cost them money as they continually reduce their energy efficiency. We recommend using dividers, trays, and compartments to organize. Over time, you will learn to optimize your storage space – making life less stressful in the galley.

Freezer Storage

Color-Coded Mesh Bags

Having a storage system for your frozen goods is the best way to minimize the time that the freezer door stays open for unnecessary reasons. A standard method for doing this is to have color-coded mesh bags to store frozen items. When looking for fish, poultry, vegetables, or anything else, having a color system reduces time spent fumbling through storage looking for something specific. 

Freezer Placement

When buying a new or used boat, your cooling units will likely already have a home. If you’re planning to replace or upgrade your freezer, however, install it below the waterline for a lower ambient temperature – this will help with energy conservation, especially in warmer locations like the tropics.

Keeping Pests Under Control

Cardboard and Paper Labels – Cockroaches

Cockroaches are among the biggest nuisances on a boat, especially when stocked with long-term provisions. Small spaces between cardboard mesh and underneath paper labels are the ideal breeding ground for cockroaches – the reason behind most boat infestations. Some cockroaches species carry egg capsules inside their bodies, and before dying, they release dozens of offspring. Getting rid of cockroaches is extremely difficult if not identified promptly. When provisioning, your best bet is to entirely remove any paper or cardboard from every item before placing your goods into storage. Once you remove the labels, use a permanent marker to indicate the contents of the container. Instead of using cardboard boxes as storage, invest in hard plastic tubs and trays to minimize the otherwise continuous battle. Air-tight bins and plastic bags are low-cost and efficient in keeping cockroaches at bay.

If you find yourself with cockroaches scuttling across your floors, you need to act quickly. While there are dozens of strategies for clearing your boat, each will require a different approach. Some cockroach species are easier to eradicate than others, and it seems that everyone has different results with the same methods.

Your best bet is to employ several of the following simultaneously:

• Cockroach Gel-Bait
• Poison Powders
• Fumigation When Necessary (this method requires you to vacate the vessel for 48 hours and remove any cookware, cutlery, and utensils beforehand)

Air-Tight Plastic Storage – Weevils 

Weevils are another common onboard pest, and they can be majorly destructive to your provisions. Food items such as rice, nuts, flour, and beans can become infested quickly if not correctly stored in air-tight plastic containers. These foods act like magnets for weevils, and they are the perfect breeding ground for their nearly unnoticeable larvae. Even when treated with pesticides, things like flour provide the ideal habitat for weevil larvae to flourish.

If you are unfortunate enough to open up your grain or flour containers to find weevils, there are a couple of tried and true ways to get rid of the infestation. For flour, simply microwave the product for five minutes or longer, or bake it in the oven at 200 degrees F for 30 minutes. After heating, let cool before storing in an airtight plastic container and store with bay leaves to repel future weevils. For food items such as grains or nuts, you can place them in a deep freezer for several hours to several days. For the freezing method, you need to have a freezer that reaches temperatures well below freezing. 

Keeping Clean – Ants

Whether on land or at sea, ants are among the most common pests in a kitchen environment. Sugary drinks, crumbs, and unattended spills are all reasons for ants to come aboard, so clean diligently everywhere on the boat – not just in the galley. You should take preventative measures before you ever see a single ant on the boat to ensure that a full-blown infestation doesn’t occur. Once ants make their way on board, you need to eradicate the problem at the source.

Preventative measures include:

• Creating Barriers on Dock Lines (Petroleum Jelly)
• Strategically Placed Ant Traps and Poisons in High-Risk Areas
• Whole or Ground Cloves Placed Near Sugar Containers
• Keep Sugars, Syrups, Honey, etc. in Sealed Plastic Bins

You can manage an existing ant infestation in various ways, although using several of the following methods at once is e asy and effective:

• Poisons (Borax and Sugar Mixture)

Galley Cookbooks

The Boat Galley Cookbook: 800 Everyday Recipes and Essential Tips for Cooking Aboard, by Carolyn Shearlock 

The space is tight, the ingredients are limited, and you just caught a fish you’ve never even considered preparing before. The boat-friendly recipes and tips in this book are sure to help out any long-term cruiser in the galley, but especially the unseasoned, first-time liveaboard chefs. In some parts of the world, chickens come whole, fish come uncleaned, and you need bones for your broth. Making bread and yogurt can also be a daunting task with limited resources. Taking raw, simple ingredients and turning them into full-blown authentic dishes inspired by cuisines worldwide is easy with this galley cookbook. Make sure this book is onboard – you’ll find plenty of uses for it. 

Feasts Afloat: 150 Recipes for Great Meals From Small Spaces, by Jennifer Trainer Thompson

This book addresses one of the biggest problems with cooking on a boat, and it mentions it directly in its title – limited space. While other boat galley cookbooks try to create complex recipes with unusual ingredients and specialized cookware, this book takes a different approach – bringing you straightforward, easy-to-cook meals without sacrificing taste or quality. You can cook a new boat-friendly recipe from this book every day for nearly half a year, although you are sure to find a few weekly staples along the way. The printed, high-quality color photos inspire the boat chef and create a mouthwatering appetite for everyone on board. If you only keep a couple of cookbooks on board, this should be one of them. 

* For a complete list and description of our favorite books to help you plan, prepare, and execute a life of cruising, follow this LINK !

Galley Tips and Tricks

• Before preparing a meal, take out every ingredient you’ll need and situate them in a way that will maximize workflow. Fumbling through your cramped and limited storage becomes frustrating when you need something at a moment’s notice.
• Decide on the items you find most useful, and make sure you have them with you – even if it means sacrificing a bit of storage space. If you eat vegetables with every meal, you can reduce the time spent in front of your cutting board by buying a heavy-duty hand dicer. If you’re a skilled fisherman and eat seafood often, having a vacuum sealer can be a lifesaver. Tailor your kitchen equipment directly to your needs, rather than using the “blanket method” for preparation.
• If you don’t have silicone mats, use damp towels to prevent plates and bowls from sliding across surfaces. You can take this idea a step further by applying a small amount of rubber cement to the bottom of plates and bowls. Once dried, few materials will grip surfaces more tightly. 
• Wear a full-length apron to ensure that you won’t suffer burns if hot liquids spill as the boat rolls during passage.
• Old tube socks serve as excellent protection for precious wine and liquor bottles. Some will choose to invest in proper fixtures to make sure breakage does not occur, but you can just as easily prevent this from happening with towels and socks. 
• When preparing freshly caught fish, the smell on your hands may linger for hours or even days. Washing your hands with vinegar is a sure-fire way to get the odor off right away. 

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Yacht Galley Design: A Challenge of Form and Functionality

Much like the kitchen in a home, which so often operates as the central hub, facilitating entertainment, homework, life chats, baking and cooking, the design of the galley aboard a yacht demands similar consideration. How many appliances and what type, prep areas, service areas for the crew, considerations for guest interaction… In my large Italian family, we always joked that every kitchen and yacht galley needed to have plenty of seating so we could hang out and harass the chef en masse! As with every space aboard a yacht, technical considerations drive all design to ensure functionality is maximized.

WHAT TO CONSIDER FOR YOUR YACHT GALLEY DESIGN

The yacht galley is a technical space; its purpose being to facilitate one of the most important onboard activities: the enjoyment of good food and good company. There are, of course, specific design/layout needs dictated by the vessel’s type and size: motor versus sailing, under 100 feet versus over 100 feet, the time spent at sea and in what conditions, and, of course, the yacht’s intended market – be it American, European, Australian or elsewhere. We dive a little deeper into this subject in our blog post about designing for the spec market . The main distinction that separates the boys from the men when it comes to galley design, however, lies between charter yachts and private yachts.

PRIVATE YACHT GALLEY DESIGN

Private yachts can get away with standard galleys designed to service small groups and families. Much like a home kitchen, the workspace and equipment – and even materials used – are adequate if they serve this purpose. High-end consumer appliances will suit, and good looking stone surfaces and backsplashes can provide lovely accents, even allowing the private yacht galley to become a focal point of the main living areas, with islands and settees providing a gathering spot for family and guests.

Exceptions to this rule are common, as we experienced with the design of the 120’ Nordhavn flagship, Aurora, aboard which the galley design served to influence much of the entire project . While the yacht was intended for private use, the owners were enthusiastic about entertaining and specified a functional galley fitted with the latest high-end appliances. The must-have appliance list was extensive: a full-height refrigerator and full-height refrigerator/freezer, two refrigerator drawers, two dishwashers, two ovens, a microwave oven, a steam oven, two sinks, a Salamander broker, an electric cooktop with four burners, a trash compactor, a BBQ grill, a teppanyaki grill and a wok burner, as well as plenty of storage and counterspace with a stool. 

While there were some compromises to be made to accommodate all of this equipment while still allowing for enough countertop and cabinetry space, we executed a layout and combination of appliance/cabinetry design that suited their needs – and resulted in a truly exceptional, efficient galley space that would please any discerning chef!

We created a “second galley” in the enclosed flybridge space with a full bar with under-counter refrigerator/freezer drawers, a dishwasher, wine cooler, trash compactor and electric BBQ. In the end, this space became a coveted area in which the owners could cook and entertain while enjoying the water views.

LIke Aurora, the owners of the 100’ Nordhavn, Serenity also love to cook and entertain and desired a Galley with all of the latest high end appliances along with enough space for his large family to congregate there. When designing the layout of Serenity , we extended it aft into the dining space, while still maintaining enough space in the adjoining Dining Salon to incorporate a large, 12-person dining table.

DESIGNING A CHARTER YACHT GALLEY

When your boat is intended for charter, the design needs are kicked up a notch…or more. Any owner who has experienced crew turnover will acknowledge that yacht galley layout plays a role in a chef’s job satisfaction. Dissatisfied chefs will blame designers who prioritized guest spaces over galley functionality. After all, food is the most important element of a successful charter. A charter necessitates not only three daily meals for up to 12 guests, but crew meals and snacks — not to mention separate dishes catering to dietary restrictions — cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, midnight snacks, crudités and more snacks, including a cookie or two.

KEEP YOUR YACHT GALLEY FAMILY-FRIENDLY!

Currently we are working on the refit of a 112’ Westport, Hannah, * which is planned for charter. The refit includes opening up the galley space to make it a more “family-friendly” gathering space. Because the yacht will be used for both charter and personal family use, it is important to execute a balance between the family’s appreciation for contemporary styling and high-end finishes and appliances and the durability and functionality required of a charter environment.

So, when considering your next design project, you may want to start with the galley. Do you have ravenous teenagers who must snack every half hour? Will you be joined by your large Italian family, each of whom must gather around the chef to critique the Sunday gravy? Do you have champagne tastes with a beer budget?

In the end, the balance of form and functionality are essential to a successful galley design. Designing your galley with the chef in mind — or better yet in consultation — will ensure not only a successful charter yacht with the right crew, but will also yield returns in resale.

*The new owner of the 112′ Westport Hannah , previously known as Via Kassablanca , was represented by Andrew Miles of Miles Yacht Group while the seller was represented by Alex Rogers & Walter Sea, Jr. of Westport Yacht Sales.

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Destry Darr Pethtel is an award-winning interior designer based in Florida. Her designs have been featured in several luxury yacht publications such as Showboats, Boat International, Yachts International, Yachting, Luxe Magazine to name just a few! Read More About Destry >>

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In recent years, there have been many modern advancements in luxury yacht kitchen design. The Yacht Division of  Ernestomeda is known for creating glamorous, and highly functional modern kitchens for all types of yachts – particularly spacious superyachts, and exquisitely detailed luxury yachts. This particular company has been known to appeal to the Italian market, but now has achieved international interest.

They focus on the quality of the kitchen products that they create for the yachting industry, as well as ensuring that they provide competitive pricing. They work to ensure that their designs fulfill the specifications of the sophisticated and consistently changing consumer.

Ernestomeda provides a wide range of detail and material choices when it comes to designing the kitchens included on luxury yachts, mega yachts, and similar types of water vessels.

HP Laminate is a product that is considered to be both high in quality and practical. It is a material that has a high resistance when it comes to scratches, and various types of abrasions. Many yacht owners elect the plywood material due to the fact that it is naturally appealing to the eye and even rustic in a decorative sense.

Ernestomeda also designs kitchens using a multitude of sophisticated and colorful lacquers. One of the most popular choices in design includes the veneer identified as “American Walnut”. The following shades are available when it comes to kitchen yacht design: Oak, Tobacco Oak, Cherry, TK, Warm Oak, Dark Oak, Lacquered Ash (White in Color), Italian Walnut.

When your yacht kitchen is designed by Ernestomeda, you will be pleased to know that there are stainless steel variations. If you prefer the look and feel of aluminum, you may choose from this material if you want a very modern décor exhibited in your kitchen. The tops of counters and other localized kitchen accessories may be designed in beautifully natural granite, okite, stainless steel, and even marble. Many have even had their luxury yacht kitchen designed in astounding quartz.

If you are interested in a modern, customized kitchen for your luxury yacht, consider the work offered by Ernestomeda. You may choose which materials are most appealing for your yacht, details that you would like included in your kitchen, and even the amount of space that you want your yacht’s kitchen to have.

Ernestomeda makes it possible for you to enjoy the modern advancements in luxury yacht kitchen design personally.

Relared links: Ernestomeda

Foto: ernestomeda.com

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• Yacht Kitchen Design

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Galley Klatch

• By Elaine Lembo
• Updated: July 28, 2010

beneteau galley 368

It started with sea water standing in the galley sink. Each time Gwen Hamlin and Don Wilson’s Tackless II, a CSY 44 walk-through, sailed on port tack, the sinks backfilled if someone forgot to close the through hull. At anchor, they gurgled. A macerator installed in the sink’s exhaust line solved that.

While they were at it, and considering that they were about to head out on a 10-year sojourn through the Pacific Ocean, they ripped out the old sinks and installed a new, deeper, stainless-steel double. They also threw in a household pull-out sprayer faucet, molded countertops that shielded the oak joinery from stains, and a cutting board that fit over one of the sinks and could be slid from side to side while the boat was under way.

Moving on, they converted a starboard hanging locker to hold canned goods, had custom nesting box shelves built in to hold onions, potatoes, and tomatoes, mounted a microwave under the cockpit deck, and set up electrical appliances on an inboard ledge.

That work doesn’t even take into consideration a massive redesign, repurposing, and repowering of the fridge and freezer compartments.

Just as Gwen and Don wouldn’t head off with tattered sails or a natty inflatable, they wouldn’t dare overlook one of the most important components of their liveaboard boat-the galley.

Their vision would score points with any number of designers, fellow live-aboards, and builders who’ve spent time focused on the galley’s critical role, no matter what size the boat.

The refits that cruisers have undertaken, as well as the observations made by industry experts about layout, innovations, and improvements over the years, yield a hefty platter of points to consider when you’re contemplating your own refit project or boat-buying prospects.

A Sense of Proportion On the other end of the spectrum is Brandon Somers. who lives in the seaport village of Wickford, Rhode Island.

Somers, who grew up aboard the beefy 63-foot Lemsteraak Dutch sailing barge Brandaris, has chosen to downsize as an adult. With his sights set on cruising among southeastern New England’s anchorages and islands on overnights and weekend excursions, the 24-year-old Somers is midway through a complete refit of the modest galley on his 28-foot Pearson Triton.

As the plumber and mechanic for Jamestown Boat Yard on Conanicut Island in Rhode Island, Somers did his homework by photographing interiors of Pearsons he liked and had worked on.

Among the problems in the old galley? The starboard length of the saloon was entirely countertop, the boat lacked needed shelving and stowage, there was no table, and the icebox, with access from the cockpit, wasn’t really usable.

Among Somers’s additions are a two-burner stove, an accessible sink and icebox, a dinette that seats two, and a pressure water system. He’ll use propane for the stove and construct a deck box at the mast to accommodate the fuel source. And he’ll make a cushion/bunk on the starboard side of the saloon. “You need a place to sleep amidships,” he says.

A sense of proportion and creating a space that’s useful yet convenient are in line with Somers’ priorities, and it’s a wise choice as a project, according to designers and builders of leading production models.

A Designer’s Eye Apply methodical thinking to your situation, urges yacht designer David Pedrick. Pedrick’s prolific career has yielded such diverse results as America’s Cup racers and superyachts, restored one-off classics, and successful production models, including the Freedom 35.

“As with anything dealing with yachts,” he says, “space is precious. There’s never enough. You have to prioritize how to use space in a desirable way.”

The choices grow proportionately with size. A 30-footer is very limited, a 40-foot-plus boat gives you more latitude for, say, a three-burner stove with oven, and by the time you’re considering a 60-foot boat, cul-de-sac shaped galleys aren’t out of the question, Pedrick says.

With each incremental growth in boat size comes a threshold at which you have to think twice before adding the next amenity, yet even in a 30-footer, “you still want a sink that’s big enough to hold a pot or a dinner plate,” he says.

As amenities start to include things like microwaves and pressure water, Pedrick says, “You realize that it isn’t just galley space you need. You need power capacity, too.”

Real People, Real Numbers Typical cruisers sail about 10 percent to 20 percent of the time and spend the rest on the hook or in a marina. That realization in the last 20 years is what has largely influenced galley innovations, says Bruno Belmont, Beneteau Group Sailboats Development Director. With that title, Belmont’s been involved with oversight of designs for a wide range of Beneteaus as well as sailboats from Lagoon and Jeanneau.

“People used to comment about their sailing vacation by listing the number of miles sailed,” Belmont says. Acknowledging that actual miles sailed may be less in some cases made it possible to change perspectives about what a cruising sailboat should deliver, especially in the galley. Results have ranged from improvements in countertop surfaces and material to larger, more practical sinks, stoves and ovens of usable size, properly located lights, and last, but not least, practical and more energy efficient refrigeration. According to Belmont, refrigeration is the second biggest energy drain on a sailboat, after belowdecks lighting. ( “Reefer Madness”)

Adding that “a long battle has raged for years between front opening and top loading fridges,” Belmont says the end result is a stroke for power efficiency: front opening compartments for the refrigerator, and top loading compartments for freezers.

As well, Beneteau designers have improved the ability to use the galley under way, focusing attention on handrails, fiddles, hanging bars, and stove protection.

Housebroken Though the galley has always rated key consideration in sensible yacht design, changes over the last 25 years on the domestic front are influencing changes in the galley design, says Gerry Douglas of Catalina.

“It’s similar to what’s happened in houses,” says the Catalina corporate vice president and head of engineering. “Years ago, the galley was utilitarian. In some boats, the galley counter was actually a companionway step. Sometimes the galley was in the peak-if you had a paid hand.”

In residential design, Douglas says, the kitchen in the last 20 to 25 years has become a social space. More people are focused on food and food prep as a social activity.

“Food also takes on importance in cruising, and now the galley is front and center in the main cabin,” Douglas says, referring to changes in such newer Catalina models as the 445. “The cook’s at the sink and has eye contact with other crewmembers. The cook’s now engaged, looking into the main cabin, not with his or her back to the social space. It’s subtle, but important.”

While trends borrowed from home design enhance the galley experience, borrowing too much from designs meant for living on land can yield regrettable trends, he says, among them, “odd angles that don’t seem to make sense.”

“The galley is an interesting space-a combination of aesthetics and function,” he says, adding that the G, L, and J layouts give cooks a way to brace themselves under way.

Douglas’s enthusiasm for accommodating food preparation doesn’t include acceptance of all modern-day conveniences, like watermakers and microwaves. “Watermakers are like electronics,” he says. “They’re always getting better, cheaper, and easier to operate. Don’t buy one until you really need it. Also, realize that having one isn’t dependent so much on the size of the boat, but how much you actually use the boat.”

And, as for microwaves, “they’re the world’s most expensive bread box,” Douglas says, expressing his personal view, as microwaves are a feature that Catalina offers.

A Movable Feast Island Packet founder and designer Bob Johnson has a simple, direct way of expressing his priorities for the galley.

“If you’re going to cook a meal on a boat,” he says, “it should be like cooking a meal at home. Eating granola bars and drinking bottled water for days is not the way you want to go.”

That opinion and all it implies has guided the highly successful galley walk-in and walk-through variations Johnson has created for IP hulls in the 30 to 50 foot range. Besides the larger center cockpit models freeing up belowdecks space and sight lines nicely for the galley, while allowing “amazing walk-through space between counters,” all IP galleys, whatever the length, “must have working space for real people and all the safety considerations,” Johnson says.

And regardless of the make and model, even on a 30-footer, Johnson says, you need stowage for cutlery; dishes; dry storage; a good icebox either of one or two compartments; and a two-burner stove.

Expanding on signature must-haves (see his list), Johnson explains what goes into his thinking when it comes to the designing of IP galleys.

“It’s nice to be able to find the oil, have a place to chop vegetables, have the spices within reach,” he says. “I prefer to dry dishes and let them nest. You need a stove with a good oven. You need to be able to operate it safely, so it needs to be gimballed and you need to be able to strap yourself in with a harness. You can put a very large pot under the gimballed stove.”

And Johnson agrees with Catalina’s Douglas that the best in home-kitchen design can also find an appropriate corollary afloat. “Like a house, the galley is the central gathering point,” he says, noting with irony, “I eat better when I’m sailing than I do at home.”

“As a designer, cruiser, and onboard cook,” he says, “and knowing owners who enjoy cooking on board, it’s practical to consider these points.”

He Wrote the Book When Donald Launer got to his 17th sailboat, the bare fiberglass hull of a schooner, and was faced with constructing everything from scratch, he went looking for advice in his vast nautical reference library at home in New Jersey.

He couldn’t find much of anything written about galleys, either new or refit. The Galley: How Things Work ($18; 2009; Sheridan House) is his way of filling that gap, by documenting everything he did. It’s a thorough compilation of galley infrastructure and resources, materials choices, and galley hardware, from types of water tank materials to stoves, fuel, pumps, electrical requirements, as well as construction considerations.

“I had experience in putting things together,” he says. “It seemed appropriate to help others who were either modifying or building their galleys from scratch.”

Galley Classroom “Before you go cruising, it’s hard to imagine exactly what it will be like,” says voyager, author, and website creator Kathy Parsons.

“The galley is a real important part of the boat and a segue to learning about other things, like refrigeration and plumbing. This is a really great way for women to transition into the cruising life,” she says.

Besides creating the Women and Cruising website ( www.womenandcruising.com ) to address resources geared to female crew, Parsons interviewed 18 women solely about galleys. The result is a gold mine of advice and ideas about provisioning, what works when living aboard, what doesn’t, what they like, and what they’ve changed.

Many of the women, like Hamlin of Tackless II, undertook extensive refits and in at least one instance, design, aboard a variety of boats, from a 46-foot Crowther catamaran to a Whitby 42. Even in the most minimal of projects, recurrent themes and a few surprises emerge. One woman, a professional interior designer and the co-owner of the Crowther, lofted the galley on paper and then made a plywood and cardboard mockup to test usability of the new layout.

Aside from that owner, most of the women are aboard used boats. Their liveaboard priorities are strikingly in line with those of builders and designers of new boats: better, more efficient, front-loading refrigeration; more and accessible stowage; more counter space made of durable materials; roomier walkways to accommodate more than one person; stronger lighting and additional ventilation; range/stove hoods; filters for water taps; pressure water systems; eye contact with other crewmembers while cooking; and double sinks.

The main element of surprise is that these liveaboards, no matter what size the boat, altered galleys to accommodate a host of electrical appliances, particularly, microwaves. Read each woman’s account carefully and realize that a range of personal preferences and divergent opinions also emerge and influence their work. You’ve gotten a taste of valuable insights into galley refit and design. There’s only one thing left to say: Bon appetit!

CW deputy editor Elaine Lembo has earned her keep working in galleys luxurious and rudimentary throughout New England and Caribbean waters.

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Home / About BAYLISS BOATWORKS / News / Latest News / Timeless Interiors

Timeless Interiors

Posted August 10, 2020

We pride ourselves on the fact that our Bayliss custom yacht interiors are some of the most striking in the industry. It is important that the quality of the materials and the functionality and execution of the design ultimately shine through. 

Although the appearance of a custom Bayliss yacht interior looks clean and simple, the smallest details set it apart, from pullman bunks to actuated parts, to veneer placement on the drawer faces. Bayliss Interior Carpentry Supervisor, Bill Crum signs off on everything before it makes the cut. 

“Some of the details we’re known for are our margins, grain matching, and veneer matching- inside and outside of every cabinet,” says Crum. “I think this attention to detail definitely contributes to the timeless appearance our boats are known for.”

ATTENTION TO DETAIL:

Approximately 8,000 to 16,000 interior carpentry man-hours go into each build, depending on the design. When asked about the installations he’s most proud of, Crum lists off a few. “On Singularis [now Reel Wheels II ], we resawed the 26-foot companionway board out of a teak boule. For Blue View, the way we blended the spiral staircase to the crew staterooms into the hanging locker beside it. And on Blank Check , the book-matched galley floors.”

On every interior, our Interior Carpentry crew utilizes a technique called book-matching. This is the practice of matching two wood surfaces, so that the adjoining grain surfaces mirror each other, giving the impression of an opened book. From starboard to port, the window frames, valances, and even horizontal veneers are book-matched.

 “If someone is detail oriented, we’re their guy,” says Bayliss. “If we cut corners, it would stick out like a sore thumb to us.” Each Bayliss door, cabinet and drawer is a trove of the details we’re known for: our custom Bayliss dovetail joint design, grain matching and solid wood edge banding. 

Even the hardware on drawers must pass the test. “You can feel the quality under your fingertips,” says Bayliss. “It’s crisp and smooth.” Vertical integration throughout our company helps us build better interiors. For instance, the Bayliss Boatworks Metalworks department collaborates with our Interior Carpentry crew to build our own proprietary custom television-lifts, pullman bunks, and hidden door hardware in order to provide our boats with components that are functional and stand up to the punishment offshore waters can deliver. 

MATERIALS AND SELECTIONS:

Selecting wood samples seems easy enough but we do things a little differently. We begin each custom yacht interior with a conversation about the owner’s desired wood choice, quality, and color, then make a rough calculation of the log size we’ll need to complete their vision.

We use one log for the entire boat on each build in order to ensure grain consistency. No two trees are the same; there are variations in every species that yield remarkable differences that we can tailor to an owner’s requirements. Finding quality logs that are big enough to compensate for this technique can be an extensive search. Once the logs are secured, we generate samples for the owner using both clear finish and stains for their approval. 

The veneers are one important component of Bayliss custom yacht interiors, but the dimensional solid stock lumber is equally as important. We always use solid boards for all cabinet tops and bunk rails, and these pieces must match the feel of the interior quality. To reduce the weight and increase the structural stability of our cabinetry, we also use Tricel panels in the fabrication of our interior components, where possible.

Bayliss yachts are known for their excellent resale value. This wouldn’t be the case without Bayliss custom yacht interiors that stand the test of time, both in durability and aesthetics. 

“When you choose teak for your interior wood choice, you never have to apologize for it. It’s an accepted standard,” says Bayliss. “However, recently there has been a lot of interest in walnut as an interior wood choice.” 

Walnut is also very high quality and offers a lot of possibilities similar to teak. Both teak and walnut, when coupled with high quality workmanship and a flawless finish, are excellent choices.

Whatever the wood choice, to protect this living art, interior surfaces receive exterior quality finish with UV prohibitors. “We’ve chosen to utilize an exterior quality interior finish that requires 15-18 coats,” says Bayliss. “Obviously, there are less labor-intensive options out there, but this finish truly stands the test of time.” 

ADVANCEMENTS:

“We’re in a constant state of evolution,” says Bayliss. “We are always refining previous tried and true techniques, making them better.”

The CNC (i.e., Computer Numerical Control) machine has been a real game-changer. It has sped up our fabrication process by changing the way we’re capable of making cuts. The Digital Fabrication & Design Department cuts all doors, frames, small parts, and nesting items using the CNC machine.

In addition to the CNC machine, we have converted a sawmill into a resaw in order to provide more latitude when it comes to book-matching, and specialty pieces. We now do a tremendous amount of resaw work in-house.

Each of our twelve Interior Carpentry crew members has his own strengths. During brainstorming sessions on the interior layout of a new build, ideas come from every person on the team.

The crew, led by Crum, is trusted to come up with a design concept, then collaborate with the owners and our Digital Fabrication & Design department to make it truly special.

“The creativity of those guys,” Bayliss says, shaking his head in wonder. “Their excitement in achieving the highest quality is infectious and really drives all of us.”

In the News Sequentis (Bayliss 60′) Delivered

Fall fishing for tarheel and mama seata, more than maintenance.

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The Boat Galley

making boat life better

Galley Design & Choices

Published on September 29, 2014 ; last updated on May 1, 2023 by Carolyn Shearlock

What features are important in a galley?

Well, a lot of that depends on the size boat and how you plan to use it. A 25′ boat obviously has a lot less space available for the galley than a 50-footer does. But that doesn’t mean that the 25-footer can’t have a workable galley and a reasonable amount of storage.

One thing to note on all boats is that the majority of your storage space for provisions won’t be in the galley — it’ll be under the floorboards, behind the settees and so on, with smaller lockers right in the galley. Use these to keep a small supply of things you use all the time handy.

There are several posts dealing with galley design issues:

• Galley Features to Look For
• Catamaran Galleys
• Overheard at the Boat Show
• Two Burner Stove or 3?
• What Brand Stove
• Stove Considerations
• Do I Need an Oven?
• One Sink or Two
• Sink Covers
• Add Counter Space
• Hate Something in the Galley?

And check out our other courses and products

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Sailboat Galley Equipment List: Essentials for Meals Onboard

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We also earn from other affiliate websites. See our full disclaimer .

Cooking in a sailboat galley is different than a spacious kitchen with land life conveniences. 

Making meals aboard is challenging enough in the small space. Now add in managing heat and steam while being conscious of water and propane usage. You have a challenge on your hands.

The hurdles of cooking aboard and limited space mean we have to be selective about sailing galley equipment. 

For this list, I used the criteria below:

• Does it conserve resources (power, water, or propane)?
• Is it high-quality and built durably for a boat environment?
• Is it easy to use and clean?
• Does it store easily?
• Does it have more than one purpose?

These questions helped determine which items made our galley equipment list. 

Best Galley Cookware / Bakeware

Magma stainless steel cookware.

Great cookware is a staple of any great kitchen, no matter where you live.

Luckily, Magma builds high-quality cookware with small space dwellers in mind.

The Magma set distributes heat evenly and has all the trademarks of quality cookware, with the nesting bonus for your small boat galley.

Why Magma Pots are Essential

• They are 18/8 grade stainless steel with triple clad bottoms for an even heat distribution
• The pots are oven-safe to 500 degrees for use on the stove or oven
• They hold heat well – they’ll conserve propane and keep food hot long after you’ve turned off the burner
• They are efficient with space – the set is about 7 inches high and approximately 14 inches at the widest point of the handles

7-Piece vs. 10-Piece Set

7-Piece Pot Set

10-Piece Pot Set

As an owner of the 7-piece, I would highly recommend the 10-piece set. We added the 1 1/2-quart pot, which has been a workhorse in the galley. The 1.5 quart is helpful for heating leftovers, a can of soup, or a single cup of oatmeal. If you opt for the 7-piece set, be sure to pick up an additional small saucepan.

You can also purchase these sets directly from Magma (often they have additional colors and options).

Read more about why these pots are sailboat galley essential and make the Best Nesting Pots for Small Spaces .

BONUS: The Magma cookware is also induction compatible. So, if you want to ditch the propane for induction, you won’t need a new cookware set.

Runner up: silicone mats.

Silicone baking mats are a big kitchen staple on a boat. They are flexible, distribute heat evenly, and are incredibly non-stick.

The Silpats silicone mats come in a variety of sizes. I have the Petite Jelly Roll (8 1/4″ x 11 3/4), which is perfect for our oven on the boat. But they also come in a toaster oven size that’s even smaller.

• Petite jelly roll size mat, 8-1/4" x 11-3/4"
• Made of the highest quality food grade silicone
• Safe for use in the oven, microwave, and freezer (-40° to 500° degrees Fahrenheit)

Why Silicone Mats are Essential

• They save on oil and eliminate parchment paper
• They are easy to wash
• Storage is a breeze; they roll up to squeeze in tight spots in a sailboat kitchen
• They are great for baking and any scenario where you would use parchment paper

I have used the Silpat brand for over 15 years and can attest to its quality. They’ll last forever if you treat them well—no knives or cutting on the mat and no harsh dish soap.

Use these mats to roast vegetables, bake pizza evenly, make granola, or bake cookies. They also work for rolling dough and making chocolate bark.

Check out Silpat silicone mats and size options here .

Best Galley Drinkware

Stainless steel wine glasses.

Our stainless steel wine glass set was a thoughtful gift from friends when we left Colorado to start cruising.

These glasses have been my go-to for happy hour on the boat and during our RV days sitting by the fire.

They’re so versatile – great for Chardonnay, rum liqueur, or boxed red wine with a couple of ice cubes (no judgment, please).

• Stainless steel tumblers, set of four
• Unbreakable and shatterproof, 18 oz.
• Great for camping, boating, and other outdoor activities

Why These Wine Glasses are Essential

• They are 304-grade stainless steel and absolutely won’t break
• They keep wine and other iced drinks cold and are freezer-safe
• They’re super easy to clean
• They don’t get as many fingerprints and hard water spots as our GCI wine glasses which are made from a Copolyester material.

Get ready for sundowners with your set of these stainless steel wine glasses .

BONUS: You’ll feel a whole lot fancier drinking your run and coke without any added hassle.

Runner up: yeti tumblers.

A good everyday glass is essential on a boat. You don’t have room for a cabinet full of drinkware, so what you have needs to work.

This Yeti brand insulated tumbler is a versatile piece of drinkware. It works for iced tea, hot tea, rum and coke, and coffee.

• 18/8 grade stainless steel BPA-free, dishwasher safe
• 6 7/8" high with a lip diameter of 3 1/2"
• MagSlider lid

Why an Insulated Tumbler is Essential

• As with the wine glasses, stainless steel is easy to clean – we use a small amount of diluted bleach to clean the tea stains every month or so
• They have double-wall vacuum insulation, so if it’s cold, it stays cold, and hot stays hot
• They are very durable at 18/8 stainless steel

Yeti is known for being a high-quality brand. Still, any well-made insulated tumbler will be a versatile cup amongst your sailing kitchenware.

View Yeti’s insulated 20 oz. tumbler , which is available in a variety of colors.

PRO TIP: You can clean coffee and tea stains on the steel and lid by soaking in water with a little bleach.

Best galley storage solutions, quality storage containers.

I discovered the OXO Smart Seal storage containers when we moved into the RV. Finally, after buying one-offs every time I would see a Bed, Bath & Beyond, I broke down and bought a full set.

• 5.7 oz. containers (2), 1.6 cup containers (2), 3 cup containers (2), 4.6 cup container (1), 6.2 cup container (1)
• All containers nest and stack for easy and compact storage
• BPA free - microwave, freezer, and dishwasher safe

Why These Containers are Essential

• They look and feel high quality
• The removal silicone lining on the lid makes them very easy to clean
• They are microwave and freezer safe, helping to eliminate freezer bags (the 4.6 cup size is perfect for freezing broth)
• They stack and nest without issue

These have a locking tab on each side and are leak and spill-proof. This is key, so you are 100% sure the lids are locked.

They come in plastic or glass. We have the plastic, and they are holding up well since we hand wash.

You can view the OXO Smart Seal containers here .

BONUS: They come in a 5.7-ounce version that is perfect for little bits of herbs, chopped veggies, freezing pesto and pizza sauce, and more.

Runner up: basket with handles.

These are the solution for all the lost food on the back of the shelf. Whether in the fridge or cabinet, you want these baskets.

You can easily pull them out to get what you need while staying organized and maximizing space.

• Set of four plastic food storage baskets with handles for ease of use
• Great for use in the kitchen in cabinets, fridge, and freezer
• 100% food safe BPA free shatter-resistant plastic.
• Bin size 12” long × 6.75” wide × 4.45” high

Why These Baskets are Essential

• They make use of hard-to-reach space in the galley cabinets or fridge
• Although not pricey, they are durable – we have consistently used ours for two years with no cracks
• They clean up quickly, even when we have big spills in the fridge

We found ours at Walmart, but I’ve seen them at the Container Store and Amazon. Be sure to measure your space before committing to a size.

Best Galley Zero Waste Product

Reusable paper towels.

One of the first things I tackled when we moved aboard was how to be more sustainable. I was previously a die-hard user of paper towels.

I immediately discovered that sourcing and storing such giant disposable products was zero fun on a boat.

• Eco-friendly, reusable paper towels
• Made from 100% organic cotton

Why Unpaper Towels Are Essential

• They reduce trash and increase storage space occupied by rolls of paper towels
• They are easy to wash and do even better if you initially rinse stains with a little dish soap
• If you don’t use cloth napkins, these can also double as casual dinner napkins

I sourced our reusable paper towels in Brunswick, Georgia, at a locally owned store, Dot & Army. Check out their unpaper towels online . They carry lots of other eco-friendly options as well.

BONUS: I love that these are trimmed in a rainbow of colors that add a little fun to the galley.

Runner up: beeswax wraps.

These have been all the rage as an eco-friendly item for the kitchen, and with good cause. I was a bit skeptical when I bought the Beeswax Wraps but quickly jumped on the bandwagon.

With a small fridge, a big concern is how much space a container occupies. The beeswax wraps adhere nicely to the shape of any fruit, veggie, or cheese, while efficiently using the room in the fridge.

• Made of certified organic cotton (plastic and silicone free)
• Washes easily with soap and cold water
• Made in Vermont, USA

Why Beeswax Wraps are Essential

• They maximize space and minimize trash since you can reduce plastic bags
• They clean easily (a little cold water and minimal dish soap if needed) 
• They fold up for easy storage when not in use (I keep them in a jar in the cabinet)

You can get the Beeswax Wraps here .

If you are planning your move aboard, start your sustainable journey now. The sooner you can learn what works for you and your crew, the better.

READ NEXT: Check out our full zero waste swaps list for more sustainable products in a small space.

Best galley gadget, hand-powered food chopper.

In the growing list of boat galley accessories, the Chef’n VeggiChop is at the top. It checks all the boxes for cooking equipment in the cruising lifestyle.

• Manual, hand-powered food chopper for veggies, fruits, herbs, nuts, and more
• Perfect for travel, RVing, tent camping, boating, and more
• Bowl, blades, and storage lid are dishwasher safe. Hand wash the pull-cord lid.

Why the VeggiChop is Essential

• It’s easy to clean, especially compared to blenders and food processors
• The convenience of a food processor with no sacrifice to power
• It’s durable – I have been using it consistently for over a decade
• You can also use it to chop nuts or make guacamole, salsa, and even pesto

How to Use the Chopper

• Roughly chop your onion, celery, carrot, or bell pepper
• Plop it in the container with the blades inserted
• Put the lid on and pull the ring like you are cranking the dinghy! (Ok, not quite that hard.)

Pull more times for finely chopped veggies. Presto! Chopped in no time, and it’s completely man-powered.

Just recently, we took apart the top to oil the inner workings. There is minor fraying on the cord after ten years, but it is working great after oiling.

Check out the Chef’n VeggiChop here .

BONUS: If you are sensitive to onions, this is a lifesaver. Seal your onion while chopping, and keep those tears at bay!

Runner up: immersion blender.

A stick blender is excellent for soups, chili, hummus, and blending ice for smoothies or shakes. Most importantly, it does the work of a blender while fitting in a small boat galley.

This KitchenAid model breaks down into two 9-inch pieces for easy storage.

Why an Immersion Blender is Essential

• It’s effortless to clean compared to a full-size blender
• It does take power (about 200 watts), but most things you are blending will only require 20-30 seconds
• It is relatively small for a kitchen gadget (especially compared to regular blenders, Ninjas, etc.), which will allow you to store it conveniently for quick use

NOTE: I had an older version of the KitchenAid immersion blender, which lasted 15 years. I recently replaced it with the newer KitchenAid model above, and the quality is similar so far.

Some blenders are cordless with a 12V lithium battery, which I am curious to hear more about. If anyone has used the cordless version, please let me know your thoughts in the comments!

You can browse KitchenAid immersion blenders here .

Best Galley Small Appliance

Thermal cooker.

Like many boats out there, our oven is older and tends to put out as much heat as it retains. Anything that takes more than 20 minutes to cook can really heat up the galley.

• Saves energy, approx. 80% on electricity or gas
• Saves time by reducing stovetop cooking time to 10 - 15 min.
• Perfect for picnics, boating, camping, travel, and more
• Food stays warm for over 6 hours

The thermal cooker reduced heat dramatically compared with the oven. It cooks with an insulated container by locking in heat once your food has come to a boil. It’s a good alternative to the stove when simmering beans or broth for hours.

With a thermal cooker, you are trading cooking time for the convenience of less heat. In the heat of the summer months, that’s a fair trade.

Some thermal cookers have a second inner pot allowing you to cook two things simultaneously. Make potatoes in the bottom and a casserole on top.

Things to Put in a Thermal Cooker

How to Use a Thermal Cooker

• Sauté any veggies and bring your food (beans, soup, broth, etc.) to a boil in the large inner pot. If cooking a casserole, boil water only in the large pot.
• Boil for 5-10 minutes.
• Remove from the stove and insert the large pot into the insulated container. If cooking a casserole, prepare it in the small pot and place it over the large pot of boiling water in the insulated container.
• Lock the lid and wait. Generally, the thermal cooker time is relative to a slow cooker.

NOTE: Don’t forget to use the boiled water for washing dishes.

Why a thermal cooker is essential.

• It saves on propane and keeps the heat out of the boat
• It serves as a cooking and baking appliance
• Inner pots are stainless steel and clean up as quickly as any regular pot

We have this thermal cooker . For more on cooking with a thermal cooker, The Boat Galley has some great information.

BONUS: Experimenting is fun! We tried making banana bread in the second inner pot, which turned out delicious and gooey. It was moist due to being cooked with water instead of the oven’s dry heat. But if you are open to trying different textures, you won’t be disappointed in the taste.

Runner up: ice maker.

I’m ashamed to say I was against an ice maker when we became liveaboards. It didn’t seem like a smart trade-off for space. Obviously, I had not been cruising during the summer in the southeast.

If you have the space and the power, an ice maker is a huge morale booster for hot afternoons and happy hours.

• Can produce 26 pounds of ice per day
• Makes ice in less than 6 minutes
• Can produce two different sizes of ice cubes

We opted for the Frigidaire, which has worked well with heavy use for over a year.

This model makes ice in under 10 minutes, making nine cubes per cycle. The specs show it draws around 200 watts when producing ice and a little more when it’s cooling ice in the basket.

Why an Ice Maker is Essential

For this last essential, I threw out most of the criteria. An ice maker can drain power, is sometimes hard to clean, and has just one purpose. But because having ice has been a daily treat for us, I had to include it on the list.

As we learn more about how to live with less on a boat, I find sometimes you just need something that makes you happy, even if it requires a little more time and energy. For our lifestyle, the ice maker is worth it!

There is now a newer version of this Frigidaire ice maker found here.

Deciding on Galley Kitchen Equipment

Defining your galley cooking style, what you like to eat, and how conservative you can be with resources will dictate your boat galley equipment. Everyone will be a little different because we all have our own priorities regarding how we cook and what we eat.

I hope this list has been helpful and given you a few ideas for items that will make cooking on a boat a little easier and more enjoyable as a liveaboard.

Want to learn more about cooking on a boat?

Read more on meal ideas, provisioning, and outfitting your boat galley on our guide.

Like this post? Save it on Pinterest for later.

Morgan, the founder of The Home That Roams, has been living nomadically for over five years. She began her journey traveling across the U.S. in a motorhome and cruising on a liveaboard sailing catamaran. Currently, she lives full-time in a travel trailer, sharing resources on RV living and boat life to help others downsize their lives and thrive in an alternative lifestyle.

Just stalked your whole site and love it. So informative ❤️ Thank you so much for posting and sharing

Thanks, Nakailla! I’m so glad you found it helpful 🙂 I love sharing about this lifestyle, but love it more when readers find it useful. Thanks again!

This has been SO helpful on putting together our list for what we need on board! Thank you so much for putting this together!

Hi Jaclyn! I’m so glad you found this helpful. There’s definitely a lot to think about for that first outfitting of the galley! Wishing you many delicious meals on board 🙂

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• May 17, 2024

Galley Greatness: Upgrading Your Yacht’s Kitchen Systems

Understanding the Importance of Your Yacht’s Galley

The galley is a pivotal area onboard your yacht—it’s where meals are prepared, conversations spark, and memories are made. Upgrading your yacht’s kitchen systems can significantly enhance your onboard living experience, adding both function and value to your marine home. A well-designed galley not only allows for efficient meal preparation but also becomes a central gathering space for guests and family, akin to the kitchen in a traditional home.

Today’s yacht galleys are about blending aesthetics with functionality. With advancements in design and technology, these spaces can be as luxurious and modern as any high-end house kitchen, equipped with the latest appliances and stylish fixtures. The goal is to create a welcoming and practical environment where you can cook with ease, entertain in style, and enjoy the beauty of the seas without compromise.

Key Elements to Consider When Upgrading

When planning your galley upgrade, it’s important to consider both space utilization and equipment efficiency. Space on a yacht is at a premium, making it vital to use every inch wisely. Smart storage solutions, collapsible or retractable elements, and multi-use features can greatly enhance the usability of your galley.

Material selection is crucial due to the unique marine environment. Choose materials that withstand humidity, temperature variations, and exposure to saltwater. Stainless steel, tempered glass, and marine-grade laminates are popular choices for their durability and ease of maintenance. Additionally, ensuring that everything is securely fitted is essential for safety in varying sea conditions.

Incorporating Modern Appliances and Technologies

Equip your galley with modern appliances that simplify cooking and storage. Induction cooktops, microwave-convection ovens, and marine-grade refrigerators are designed to perform efficiently in the limited space and power availability onboard. Energy efficiency is key, so opt for appliances that provide maximum functionality with minimal energy consumption.

Incorporating smart technology can enhance the functionality of your galley. Devices that can be controlled via smartphone or computer can provide convenience, allowing you to focus on entertaining and relaxing. Features like automated temperature control, smart refrigerators, and systems that monitor energy use can elevate your galley into a state-of-the-art cooking space.

Design Tips for a Sophisticated Yacht Galley

In yacht galley design, balance aesthetics with practicality. Choose a color scheme and materials that reflect the overall style of your yacht, creating a seamless visual flow. Lighting plays a crucial role; incorporate layers of light with task lighting over counters and soft ambient lights for dining areas to enhance both functionality and ambiance.

Safety and ergonomics are paramount. Opt for rounded corners, non-slip flooring, and sturdy handles and fixtures. The layout should allow for easy movement and provide clear paths for evacuation in case of emergency, all while making daily tasks feel comfortable and natural.

Reflecting Your Lifestyle and Taste

Every yacht owner uses their vessel differently. Some entertain frequently, requiring a galley that serves as a showpiece equipped with professional-grade equipment. Others might value simplicity and efficiency, preferring a compact, minimalist design that supports quick and easy meal preparation. Customizing your galley to match your boating lifestyle is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a space that enhances your time on the water.

For those considering such an important upgrade, partnering with knowledgeable experts who understand the intricacies of yacht configurations can make a significant difference. At Fly Yachts, we specialize in matching yacht owners with the perfect vessels and upgrades that reflect their lifestyle, ensuring every detail is addressed with precision and care.

Fly Yachts offers many services for yacht and plane enthusiasts. Start by visiting their  homepage  to see what they offer. If you’re looking to buy a yacht, super yacht, or center console, visit their  Yachts for Sale  page. For custom yacht builds, check out their  Build a Yacht  section. If you need to sell your yacht, their  Sell Your Yacht  service can help. They also have excellent  Charter Destinations  for vacations, with more details  here . If you are interested in luxury airplanes, visit their  Aircraft for Sale  page. Learn more about Fly Yachts on their  About Us  page, and stay updated with the latest news on  Gulfstream News . If you have any questions, their  Contact  page is available to assist you. Also, check out their  Compass Articles  for interesting reads on yachting.

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Ukraine in maps: Tracking the war with Russia

Fighting has raged in Ukraine since Russia launched a full-scale invasion in February 2022. Russian forces have made small gains in recent months but now Ukrainian forces have staged a counter-offensive into Russia.

Here is a recap of recent significant events and the situation in Ukraine.

Ukraine sends units into Russia

Ukrainian troops launched a surprise attack across the border in early August, advancing up to 18 miles (30km) into the Russian region of Kursk.

Almost 200,000 people were evacuated from areas along the border by the Russian government and President Vladimir Putin condemned the Ukrainian offensive as a "major provocation".

After two weeks, Ukraine's top commander claimed to control more than 1,200 sq km of Russian territory and 93 villages. The regions of Kursk and Belgorod have both declared a state of emergency.

The counter-offensive is seen partly as an attempt to force Russia to redeploy units from the east and relieve pressure on the beleaguered Ukrainian defences there, and partly as a bid to improve Ukraine's chances of a peace settlement.

Russian incursion north of Kharkiv

At the beginning of May 2024, Russian forces crossed the international border to the north of Ukraine's second-biggest city, Kharkiv. Several villages were seized and thousands of civilians fled.

Russia's main offensive has long focused on the eastern Donetsk region, but this was one of the most significant ground assaults since the start of the war and further stretched Ukraine's front-line defences.

The Russian push took place at the end of a four-month period when the US was not supplying weapons to Ukraine, due to a stalemate in the US Congress.

The issue was finally resolved at the end of April, when the US passed a $61bn aid package to provide missiles, artillery and air-defence systems to the Ukrainian military.

Ukrainian forces eventually held firm and even though the city of Kharkiv has come under repeated attack from glide bombs fired by Russian warplanes, it remains beyond the range of Russian artillery.

Russia grinds forward in the east

The incursion north of Kharkiv was some distance from the main front line in the east where Russia has continued its offensive operations and been edging forwards since October 2023.

Eastern Ukraine has been contested territory since 2014, when Russian-backed fighters seized large swathes of the eastern Donetsk and Luhansk regions.

Russia's biggest advantage is manpower and it has shown a willingness to throw soldiers at Ukrainian positions to gain a few metres at a time.

About 1,200 Russian soldiers were being killed or wounded every day in May and June, the highest rate since the beginning of the war, according to Western officials.

In recent days, Russian troops have made some significant gains to the north-west of Donetsk and claim to have captured the small town of Niu-York.

In response, Ukraine has ordered the evacuation of the city of Pokrovsk, with a local military official telling residents that Russian forces were "rapidly approaching".

The Russian advance towards Pokrovsk is the most notable change in control of the front line near Donetsk for several months.

The last major change came when Ukraine withdrew its troops from Avdiivka, just north of Donetsk, back in February after months of fighting.

Almost all of Avdiivka's pre-war population of more than 30,000 people have left and the town itself is almost completely destroyed.

To the north, areas around Bakhmut have remained a flashpoint and have endured some of the heaviest fighting of the war.

Although Ukraine gained some ground around Chasiv Yar, which is situated on high ground some 10km west of Bakhmut, Russian forces have since made further advances in the area.

Two and a half years of fighting

Russia's invasion began with dozens of missile strikes on cities all over Ukraine before dawn on 24 February 2022.

Russian ground troops moved in quickly and within a few weeks were in control of large areas of Ukraine and had advanced to the suburbs of Kyiv.

Russian forces were bombarding Kharkiv, and they had taken territory in the east and south as far as Kherson, and surrounded the port city of Mariupol.

But they hit very strong Ukrainian resistance almost everywhere and faced serious logistical problems with poorly motivated Russian troops suffering shortages of food, water and ammunition.

Ukrainian forces were also quick to deploy Western supplied arms such as the Nlaw anti-tank system, which proved highly effective against the Russian advance.

By October 2022, the picture had changed dramatically and having failed to take Kyiv, Russia withdrew completely from the north. The following month, Ukrainian forces recaptured the southern city of Kherson.

Since then, the battle has mostly been in the east of Ukraine with Russian forces slowly gaining ground over many months, while losing at least 50,000 troops - and probably many more.

By Dominic Bailey, Mike Hills, Paul Sargeant, Chris Clayton, Kady Wardell, Mark Bryson, Sana Dionysiou, Gerry Fletcher, Kate Gaynor and Erwan Rivault

About these maps

To indicate which parts of Ukraine are under control by Russian troops we are using daily assessments published by the Institute for the Study of War with the American Enterprise Institute's Critical Threats Project .

The situation in Ukraine is often fast moving and it is likely there will be times when there have been changes not reflected in the maps.