The Boat Galley

The best waterproof tablet case for a boat is expensive insurance--especially if you use your tablet for navigation or trip planning. But even if you just use it for playing music or reading do you really want to risk ruining it? Podcast Summary In recent years, tablets have become common on cruising boats.  We found ours useful for navigation, trip planning, reading, and more. But your tablet is worthless if you can't keep it dry and working in a wet cockpit.  Even our own Boat Galley cruising guides come in PDF versions you can access easily from your tablet. They're handy for a quick lookup of a bridge opening or finding a place to take the dog off when you stop for the evening.  So what are the minimal features a tablet case needs to be worth bringing onboard? tech must be fully usable while contained in the case case must keep the tablet from overheating you must be able to charge the tablet in the case. case must be completely watertight in both wind and waves The one I think is the best option has two other features that I'm very thankful for: floats if dropped (no matter how much you stuff inside) easy to carry and hold onto So that is this amazing boat tablet case? It's the ugo wear waterproof tablet case. I used their phone case for years. And I've been just as happy with the tablet case since I've had one.   My iPad functions in every way right in the case. It pairs easily to Bluetooth so I can use WiFi and earbuds. I add an external battery pack to the case and plug it in.  Best of all, it never overheats. That is not true for other cases I've tried over the years.  The ugo case has both a shoulder strap an a smaller hand strap. I used the hand strap frquently for keeping it close at hand underway.  Extra pockets have room for money, credit cards, and small extras. With a little regular maintneance of the zipper, it seals up easily. And provides inexpensive insurance for expensive tech.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying purchases; some other links may be affiliate links): The Boat Galley Quick Reference Guides - https://products.theboatgalley.com/collections/quick-reference-guides The Boat Galley Quick Reference Guides (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3EvF8O3 ugo wear Waterproof Tablet Case (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3CurKt6 Gear Aid Zipper Cleaner & Lube (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4jNcTup ugo wear - https://ugowear.com/?aff=7 Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig          

Deciding how to divide cruising time between work and pleasure is a real conundrum.  Another joint podcast wherein we answer a fantastic question about life balance from a follower.   Podcast Summary No one starts cruising so they can work on their boat all the time. Yes, it's important to keep your vessel in good repair. But you also need to learn how to balance fun with boat work. But just how do you do that? Here are a few tips: Cruiser and coach, Behan Gifford, suggests someone onboard becomes a "happiness engineer." They take on the responsibility for planning fun activities on a regular basis. Make sure you block out time on your schedule for both fun and boat chores. Fun is important. So besides scheduling time for it, leave money in your budget for it. Be sure to make time for fun when you're in particularly interesting spots. After all, you can make repairs nearly anywhere (once you have supplies). But some adventures are site specific. And, if you struggle to find time for fun and boat work, extend your stay. You can always slow down. Even if you prefer anchoring, an occasional marina stay can help you replenish your spirits. Beating weather may be a race. But balance it with a break when you're past the worst of it. Make sure everyone on the crew gets moments of fun, including pets and kids. Links:  Outboard Motor Troubleshooting Guide - https://bit.ly/42Di75K Nica email - nica@fit2sail.com Carolyn email - carolyn@theboatgalley.com Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 Today’s episode of The Boat Galley Podcast is sponsored by Lunatec, makers of the hydration spray bottle, odor-free dishcloth and self-cleaning washcloth. Lunatec offers practical gear designed to save water and reduce waste. A water bottle that doubles as a garden hose? A dish cloth that doesn’t get stinky? Yes, please! Visit Lunatecgear.com to learn more; use code boatgalley to save 10% on everything. Lunatec: innovative gear for your outdoor adventures. Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig          

It's unlikely you have as much gear in your boat galley as you did in your kitchen on land. So what should you do if a recipe calls for a tool you don't have?  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying purchases; some other links may be affiliate links): Provisioning Course - https://products.theboatgalley.com/products/provisioning-meal-planning-and-food-storage   Eating Well with a Tiny Fridge - https://products.theboatgalley.com/products/eating-well-with-a-tiny-fridge   The Boat Galley Cookbook  - https://products.theboatgalley.com/products/cookbook   The Boat Galley Cookbook (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/40z4jGG   Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig            

A little background on the voices you hear each week in a rare joint podcast where we ask each other questions about our cruising, our boats, and why we got into podcasting together. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying purchases; some other links may be affiliate links):  Nica bio -  https://www.fit2sail.com/about-nica   About Nica’s boats - https://www.fit2sail.com/about-the-boat   About Carolyn - https://products.theboatgalley.com/pages/about-us  Lin Pardey and her Books (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4g59nby Nica email - nica@fit2sail.com Carolyn email - carolyn@theboatgalley.com Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 Today’s episode of The Boat Galley Podcast is sponsored by MantusMarine.com, maker of the Mantus anchor, now available in models with and without a roll bar. Proven to set reliably in the most challenging bottoms, the Mantus anchor digs like no other, making anchoring safer and boating more enjoyable. Mantus Marine brings to market practical, durable and affordable marine products, including: anchoring gear, scuba diving accessories, and rechargeable waterproof headlamp for hands-free lighting and solar charging Navigation light. Visit MantusMarine.com and see for yourself! Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig          

Making the bed in your boat can be a nightmare if you don't have property fitted sheets. So waht are your options? Here's a good one we've found.  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying purchases; some other links may be affiliate links): Cinch-Fit Sheets - https://bit.ly/4gQj2UC Shallow Pocket Sheets - https://bit.ly/4acca1m V-Berth Boat Sheets - https://bit.ly/3WDOWfl V-Berth Boat Sheets (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4hbsQbB Cinch-Fit Queen Sheets (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4gRAM21 Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 Today’s episode of The Boat Galley Podcast is sponsored by Lunatec, makers of the hydration spray bottle, odor-free dishcloth and self-cleaning washcloth. Lunatec offers practical gear designed to save water and reduce waste. A water bottle that doubles as a garden hose? A dish cloth that doesn’t get stinky? Yes, please! Visit Lunatecgear.com to learn more; use code boatgalley to save 10% on everything. Lunatec: innovative gear for your outdoor adventures. Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig            

  Not marine grade? Not a problem! 5 reasons we have generic 2x4 pieces aboard Calypso.  Links: Nica email - nica@fit2sail.com Carolyn email - carolyn@theboatgalley.com Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 The Boat Galley podcast is sponsored by FastSeas.com. Plan your next passage using FastSeas.com. Whether you are after speed or comfort, FastSeas will find the optimum route to your destination. FastSeas - making weather routing simple. Use coupon code GALLEY for an exclusive 10% discount. Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig      

Boat work often involves spending time on your hands and knees. And whether your decks are fiberglass or teak, it will start to hurt. Here's one easy way to protect your knees. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying purchases; some other links may be affiliate links): Non-Marking Knee Pads (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3ZU7sRd Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 Today’s episode of The Boat Galley Podcast is sponsored by MantusMarine.com, maker of the Mantus anchor, now available in models with and without a roll bar. Proven to set reliably in the most challenging bottoms, the Mantus anchor digs like no other, making anchoring safer and boating more enjoyable. Mantus Marine brings to market practical, durable and affordable marine products, including: anchoring gear, scuba diving accessories, and rechargeable waterproof headlamp for hands-free lighting and solar charging Navigation light. Visit MantusMarine.com and see for yourself! Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig      

Being able to help with a humanitarian mission is a joy. Learn how carrying boxes of supplies to the Bahamas for a non-profit made our recent crossing extra special.  Links:   Hope Fleet -  https://hopefleet.org  Nica email - nica@fit2sail.com Carolyn email - carolyn@theboatgalley.com Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 Today’s episode of The Boat Galley Podcast is sponsored by MantusMarine.com, maker of the Mantus anchor, now available in models with and without a roll bar. Proven to set reliably in the most challenging bottoms, the Mantus anchor digs like no other, making anchoring safer and boating more enjoyable. Mantus Marine brings to market practical, durable and affordable marine products, including: anchoring gear, scuba diving accessories, and rechargeable waterproof headlamp for hands-free lighting and solar charging Navigation light. Visit MantusMarine.com and see for yourself! Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig      

All cutting boards protect your counter, keep your knives from getting dull, and guard against food poisoning. But on a boat, they also have to stay put. Here's my recommendation. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying purchases; some other links may be affiliate links): Oxo Good Grips Cutting Board 10" x 15" (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4gRx9sL Oxo Good Grips Cutting Board 7" x 11" (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3Pfkxjn Oxo Good Grips Cutting Board 9" x 13" (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/49FtsUC Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 Today’s episode of The Boat Galley Podcast is sponsored by Lunatec, makers of the hydration spray bottle, odor-free dishcloth and self-cleaning washcloth. Lunatec offers practical gear designed to save water and reduce waste. A water bottle that doubles as a garden hose? A dish cloth that doesn’t get stinky? Yes, please! Visit Lunatecgear.com to learn more; use code boatgalley to save 10% on everything. Lunatec: innovative gear for your outdoor adventures. Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig    

It’s not only about the weather in the next 2 days that matters . Or how weather windows to the Bahamas in November of 2024 were challenging!  Links:   National Hurricane Center - https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/   West Palm Beach -  https://www.wpb.org/Departments/Parks-Recreation/City-Docks  Nica email - nica@fit2sail.com Carolyn email - carolyn@theboatgalley.com Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 The Boat Galley podcast is sponsored by FastSeas.com. Plan your next passage using FastSeas.com. Whether you are after speed or comfort, FastSeas will find the optimum route to your destination. FastSeas - making weather routing simple. Use coupon code GALLEY for an exclusive 10% discount. Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig      

Sorry, it's just not possible to do all the holiday baking on a boat that you may have done on land. But that doesn't meant you don't have plenty of fun options. Here are a few ideas for making holiday treats without stress. Links: Gingerbread Cake Recipe - https://theboatgalley.com/gingerbread/ Booze Balls Recipe - https://theboatgalley.com/no-bake-booze-balls/ Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 Today’s episode of The Boat Galley Podcast is sponsored by MantusMarine.com, maker of the Mantus anchor, now available in models with and without a roll bar. Proven to set reliably in the most challenging bottoms, the Mantus anchor digs like no other, making anchoring safer and boating more enjoyable. Mantus Marine brings to market practical, durable and affordable marine products, including: anchoring gear, scuba diving accessories, and rechargeable waterproof headlamp for hands-free lighting and solar charging Navigation light. Visit MantusMarine.com and see for yourself! Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig        

Leave fully topped off. You’ll thank yourself if you do! A discussion of all the fluids we fill before leaving on a cruise.    Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying purchases; some other links may be affiliate links): Water Jug Containers (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3CUksyg Solar Shower (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3CCCJA8 Diesel Jug Containers (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/497zYCY Propane Canisters - bit.ly/497N6rN Gasoline Jug Container (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3OkrJtY Gloucester Fire & Water - https://thefirewatercompanyllc.com Nica email - nica@fit2sail.com Carolyn email - carolyn@theboatgalley.com Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 This episode of The Boat Galley Podcast is sponsored by Marmara Imports.  Their hand loomed, fair trade, organic cotton Turkish towels are highly absorbent, dry quickly, fold flat and are soft and luxurious: perfect for life aboard!  Use coupon code Podcast10 for 10% off any order of $40 or more. Marmaraimports.com: more than a towel.   Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig            

If you want to stay safe while cooking onboard, you'll want to understand how to use pot restraints. Here are a few tips to get you started. Links:  Using Gimbals on a Galley Stove - https://theboatgalley.com/stove-gimbals/ Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 Today’s episode of The Boat Galley Podcast is sponsored by Lunatec, makers of the hydration spray bottle, odor-free dishcloth and self-cleaning washcloth. Lunatec offers practical gear designed to save water and reduce waste. A water bottle that doubles as a garden hose? A dish cloth that doesn’t get stinky? Yes, please! Visit Lunatecgear.com to learn more; use code boatgalley to save 10% on everything. Lunatec: innovative gear for your outdoor adventures. Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig  

Finding the right food to make it a celebration underway. Making a meat-centered Thanksgiving with no freezer takes some planning. Here's how we'll do it. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying purchases; some other links may be affiliate links): ARB Fridge/Freezer (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4fF2zSa Roasting Pan (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4eqz9q5 Nica email - nica@fit2sail.com Carolyn email - carolyn@theboatgalley.com Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 The Boat Galley podcast is sponsored by FastSeas.com. Plan your next passage using FastSeas.com. Whether you are after speed or comfort, FastSeas will find the optimum route to your destination. FastSeas - making weather routing simple. Use coupon code GALLEY for an exclusive 10% discount. Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig              

Good galley tools can make lots of jobs easier. And one of my favorites is heat proof, good with nonstick pans, and great for getting the last little bit out of a jar. Want to know what it is? Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying purchases; some other links may be affiliate links): Silicone Spoon Spatula (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4e7XkJU Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 The Boat Galley podcast is sponsored by FastSeas.com. Plan your next passage using FastSeas.com. Whether you are after speed or comfort, FastSeas will find the optimum route to your destination. FastSeas - making weather routing simple. Use coupon code GALLEY for an exclusive 10% discount. Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig      

Or how often do you really need to sort your things before going cruising? I share our process of iteration when deciding on what goes and what stays. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying purchases; some other links may be affiliate links): Sanding Drum Kit (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3YlOC4I Large Storage Bins with Lids (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3A55oND Nica email - nica@fit2sail.com Carolyn email - carolyn@theboatgalley.com Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 Today’s episode of The Boat Galley Podcast is sponsored by Lunatec, makers of the hydration spray bottle, odor-free dishcloth and self-cleaning washcloth. Lunatec offers practical gear designed to save water and reduce waste. A water bottle that doubles as a garden hose? A dish cloth that doesn’t get stinky? Yes, please! Visit Lunatecgear.com to learn more; use code boatgalley to save 10% on everything. Lunatec: innovative gear for your outdoor adventures. Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig          

It can be tempting to fit equipment anywhere you can shoehorn it in. But if you can't get to it for routine maintenance or repairs, you'll regret it. Here are some things to consider about access for maintenance before  you buy your cruising boat. Links: Easy Battery Watering System - https://theboatgalley.com/easy-battery-watering/ Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2  The Boat Galley podcast is sponsored by FastSeas.com. Plan your next passage using FastSeas.com. Whether you are after speed or comfort, FastSeas will find the optimum route to your destination. FastSeas - making weather routing simple. Use coupon code GALLEY for an exclusive 10% discount. Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig    

Reusable plastic bags of all kinds have a home on our boat. These are the three different kinds of reusable plastic bags we carry onboard. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying purchases; some other links may be affiliate links): Costco - https://www.costco.com 2-Gallon Ziploc Bags (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3NtdUbW Spacesaver Vacuum Storage Bags (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4eHtddl Stasher Silicone Bags (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/489ShHw Nica Email - nica@fit2sail.com Carolyn Email - carolyn@theboatgalley.com Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 This episode of The Boat Galley Podcast is sponsored by Marmara Imports.  Their hand loomed, fair trade, organic cotton Turkish towels are highly absorbent, dry quickly, fold flat and are soft and luxurious: perfect for life aboard!  Use coupon code Podcast10 for 10% off any order of $40 or more. Marmaraimports.com: more than a towel.   Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig            

Flares are vital safety equipment. But traditional flares require some skill to use, shine for a short time, and are difficult to dispose of if yours expire. Luckily, there is an easier option available. Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying purchases; some other links may be affiliate links): Weems & Plath Sirius Signal Electronic Flare (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4eCVa68 12-pack of C batteries (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3TTurda Lock & Lock waterproof container for batteries (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3TZINZh See/Rescue Streamer — 25 foot (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3U1Gghh See/Rescue Streamer — 40 feet (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3NcJivx Orion Fluorescent Dye Marker – 2-Pack (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4eSpuZQ Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 The Boat Galley podcast is sponsored by FastSeas.com. Plan your next passage using FastSeas.com. Whether you are after speed or comfort, FastSeas will find the optimum route to your destination. FastSeas - making weather routing simple. Use coupon code GALLEY for an exclusive 10% discount. Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig  

Small appliances make life better in the galley.  Understand the considerations needed when deciding what electrical galley tools to have on board. Plus a look at what we have and why!  Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying purchases; some other links may be affiliate links): Electric Kettle (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3zqpFgf Small Electric Kettle (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4gJHIi0 Coffee Grinder (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3TKRo2a Compact Bread Machine (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3XGIQu3 Induction Burner (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3ZIUUO6 Immersion Blender (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/47ZS2id Spice Grinder (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3XY72cR Hand Mixer (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4dsg7Pw Nica email - nica@fit2sail.com Carolyn email - carolyn@theboatgalley.com Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 This episode of The Boat Galley Podcast is sponsored by Marmara Imports.  Their hand loomed, fair trade, organic cotton Turkish towels are highly absorbent, dry quickly, fold flat and are soft and luxurious: perfect for life aboard!  Use coupon code Podcast10 for 10% off any order of $40 or more. Marmaraimports.com: more than a towel.   Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig