Having a good galley is essential if you are going to enjoy cruising for more than a day or two. Most boats now have BBQ’s for grilling as well as some kind of cooker in the cabin. If you can arrange to have a three-burner stove with an oven you will be in an envious place.

We often plan to spend significant time in food preparation and serving. Doing something in the galley that is creative or experimental can really enrich your cruising experience. I have installed a few additional items that have made this activity easier. We have an overhead wine glass rack that holds 6 glasses. There is now an elevated shelf above the sinks. For extra can storage I took two 4” drain pipes and hung them above the Quarter berth. They have a basket connected to a string and each can store more than a dozen cans.

I also build a good-sized flip up cutting board for prep. Often the nav table doubles as part of the prep space as well.

I have mentioned refrigeration before but have to reiterate that this is a game changer.   These days when we decide at the last minute to go for a sail, we are pre -prepared! I always make sure that I have all the fixings for a spaghetti dinner for 6 on board.  This includes a pound of hamburger and some cold drinks. There is nothing worse than deciding at the last minute to go out for a sail, swim and supper just to have to go shopping for an hour or more before you go. If your fridge is stocked, you will use your boat more at short notice.