The Boat Galley

The last regularly scheduled episode of The Boat Galley Podcast is a discussion between Nica and Carolyn on how cruising has changed. Summary Today's episode of The Boat Galley podcast is actually a little different. Welcome to a conversation between Carolyn Shearlock and Nica Waters on changes to cruising in the past few decades. But first, we have some news for you. We've enjoyed recording this podcast for over 800 episodes over the past eight years. That's a lot of useful information available in short episodes--most less than ten minutes long. If you're new to the podcast, make sure you go back and check out our old content. Thank you to all our listeners. And also, thank you to our sponsors who have supported us. We reached out to our sponsors because we use and love their products. We're not only grateful for their support of the podcast but also for how they've helped make our own cruising lives easier. Changes in Cruising Nica first began cruising in the 1990s, and Carolyn began in 2002. Since then, we've seen a lot of changes. One of the biggest has been access to information. With access to satellite-based internet, it's easier to get information than ever. The new challenge is learning to differentiate between useful information and infotainment. GPS Of course, a huge game-changer has been the arrival of GPS. In the early days, it wasn't reliable. Early chart plotters made it appear your boat was on land, and GPS service included a warning that it would only be reliable to five miles. Nica notes that in her current location in French Polynesia, GPS has made navigation much easier. However, she would not rely on it at night. Ease of Setting Out Carolyn notes that it used to be typical for cruisers to begin by coastal cruising. They might stay just offshore for five years while they gain the skills required to travel farther afield. Today, it's easier to set off more quickly. You can connect to the information you need farther from shore. However, it also means some cruisers don't have the experience and skills to rely on if things go wrong. More cruisers set out with a big goal, like circumnavigating. Carolyn reminds us of Lin Pardey's advice: to keeping going as long as it's fun. Nica notes that many cruisers are buying larger and more luxurious vessels. That means that they may not have a plan for when their freezer fails or their watermaker needs to be repaired. Skills like knowing how to keep food without refrigeration or how to gather rainwater can help any cruiser if equipment breaks down in a remote location. Redundancy of skills is as important as redundancy in equipment. Returning to navigation, a cruiser needs to have a plan for if GPS itself becomes unavailable. With paper charts no longer being updated, this becomes a greater challenge. Carolyn credits her experience as a small boat racer for having the skills to move her boat if something goes wrong. Although she feels self-sufficiency is important, she also expresses gratitude for fellow cruisers who suggested quick fixes when she and Dave were trying to make the perfect repair. Advice for Cruisers The Boat Galley exists to make cruising easier and more fun. So it's time to share some advice. Flexibility Nica and Carolyn agree that mental flexibility and the ability to slow down are among the most important traits for any cruiser. The theme music of the podcast expresses this key. It's titled "Slow Down." Stay Curious and Open to Adventure There will be days when you feel tired or homesick. But if you keep that curiosity and sense of adventure, whether you're sailing in familiar waters or farther ashore, you'll be enjoying the best benefits of cruising. Carolyn reminds us that you can't plan for everything. That's actually the definition of adventure--not knowing what will happen next. Not everything will look like a YouTube video. You'll experience highs and lows. But most of cruising is the mundane middle--washing dishes, moving stuff around to reach other stuff, etc. Farewell Carolyn and Nica are proud of all the work they've done on the podcast, providing useful tips for others. They love hearing from listeners and look forward to sharing more about this amazing lifestyle. 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! Links: Lin and Larry Pardey Books (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4rw1B07 Nica email - nica@fit2sail.com Carolyn email - carolyn@theboatgalley.com Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: "Slow Down" by Yvette Craig

So, you've decided to buy a cruising boat. Congratulations! Which is the best fit for you? A catamaran or a monohull? Here are some thoughts from someone who has cruised on both. Summary Which is a better cruising vessel, a catamaran or a monhull? After cruising aboard both a 37-foot monohull and later a 34-foot catamaran, I've seen benefits and drawbacks to each. For life aboard, a catamaran is more comfortable. Even a shorter cat will feel larger. Beds are more likely to fit standard sizes, and the space can feel light and airy. However, storage is usually easier on a monohull. They have more built-in storage spaces. In addition, while no boat should be overloaded, catamarans are particularly sensitive to weight. If you fill a cat with too many spares and tools, it will affect performance. Underway, cats are faster. Without a heavy keel to push through the water, they slip along. However, monohulls tend to point higher when sailing upwind. A catamaran's shallower draft opens up more anchoring possibilities. With twin engines, it can do some tricky maneuvers. However, with a wider beam and higher windage, close-quarters handling can be challenging. Monohulls with fin keels are easier to maneuver, while full-keels can be especially fussy backing into a slip. Catamarans offer tons of space to entertain in the cockpit. But in poor weather, the deeper and more sheltered cockpit of a monohull will feel safer in rough or cold conditions. Generally, catamarans are easier to board. A monohull with a sugar scoop completes well. But generally, cats are easier. While the catamaran's two engines offer a backup if one fails, they also require double the maintenance. Their saildrives provide less drag but also require more maintenance. For people who dislike heeling, a catamaran's stability offers a big selling point. However, the motion is more jerky underway. Different sailors prefer different motions, and you have to experience it to decide for yourself. With a roomier deck, sail handling tends to be easier on a catamaran. However, the annoying "slapping" sound under the bridge deck can be irritating when the waves hit wrong. It even happens at anchor. Noise can be another difference. Catamarans can have an annoying slap under the bridge deck when waves hit just right. It can happen even at anchor. Don't forget to consider righting ability. A monohull will nearly always right itself. A catamaran, while it's less likely to capsize, will not turn itself back up. Catamaran costs can be higher because of their width. Consider the difficulties of finding a spot in a marina or getting hauled out. Insurance may be more expensive as well. Extra equipment--davits, windvanes, solar panels-- works better on one or the other. Think about your needs carefully. Finally, catamarans are nearly always more expensive to buy and maintain. So, which is better — a catamaran or a monohull? Catamarans offer space, stability, and a shallow draft. A monohull offers simplicity, sailing performance, and a boat that will right itself if the worst happens. They both have benefits. The choice is up to you. To get more details, listen to the full podcast or check out Catamaran or Monohull (https://theboatgalley.com/catamaran-or-monohull-2/). Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 Today's episode is sponsored by Roam Devices. Their Marine Monitor is a premium boat monitoring system that allows you to stay informed with what's happening on your boat while you're ashore for just $349 and $5 per month. Never be caught off guard by a failing battery or burnt-out bilge pump —Your boat will text you as soon as anything starts going wrong! The Roam Devices app shows a real-time view of your boat's status and location with an awesome built in remote anchor alarm. RoamDevices.com - never worry about your boat from afar again. Use coupon code BOATGALLEY for an exclusive 5% discount. Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: "Slow Down" by Yvette Craig

You may be tempted to stretch your budget to get a larger boat or more features. But wait. Have you considered the hidden costs you may pay when buying a boat? Summary When a friend started looking for a slightly larger boat, I began thinking about the hidden costs he'd have to pay. He found a larger catamaran that would cost around $300,000. Sure, it would be a stretch, but they thought it was possible--before they considered the extras. So what are these extras? And will they affect you? First, there is sales tax. It varies from state to state (or even by county). If he bought where we are, that would be 7.5%, or $22,500. Even though Florida caps sales tax at $18,000, that's still a big check to write. And what about insurance? Hull coverage is a percentage of the boat's value, and you must pay it every year. Of course, when buying a boat, you'll want to have a professional survey. Combined with the costs of hauling out, you're talking about thousands of dollars. That's for the basics. If you add in engine and rigging survey or oil analysis, you're looking at even more. If the survey reveals issues or you simply want to upgrade to make the boat fit you better, that's even more money--before even leaving the dock. If you buy a larger boat, haulouts and marina stays will cost more over the life of the boat. And expect to pay 5 to 10% of the boat's value on maintenance every year. My friend did the review and realized that while they could probably afford the purchase, the ongoing costs would significantly affect their cruising plans. Don't get discouraged. Just look carefully at all the costs before you buy a boat. It's part of the delicate balancing act most cruisers make between money and satisfaction. For more details, listen to the complete podcast or read The Hidden Costs When Buying a Boat. Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 Links: Free Boat Buyer's Checklist - https://theboatgalley.com/documents-for-boat-buyers-owners/ 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

If you've never checked into a marina or mooring field before, how do you learn? Here are the procedures and best practices. Summary: When you're headed to a new marina or mooring field, prepare ahead of time by checking the layout. Visit their website or use Google Maps. Advanced familiarity will make the marina staff's instructions clearer later. Call when you're ten minutes out to get last-minute details to help you tie up. It gives you a chance to ask for landmarks to help you find the slip or to get information about how to tie up. Will you be getting help to tie up? If so, in the United States, a tip is customary. After you're tied up, get back to the marina office to make arrangements to pay and provide documents. I preferred to clean up a bit before checking in. It's simply a sign of respect and helps things go smoother. I kept all my documents in one place so I was ready. It's why we developed the Boat Documents Organizer. Look for a link in the show notes. After checking in, get the lay of the land. Where are the showers? Laundry? What is the WiFi password? And, will the marina be hosting any special events? To get more details, listen to the full podcast or check out How to Check Into a Marina. Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 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 Documents Organizer - https://products.theboatgalley.com/products/the-boat-galley-boat-documents-organizer-large-size Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: "Slow Down" by Yvette Craig

Cruising offers many challenges. But it shouldn't feel like a slog. And if it does, maybe a few simple changes will make it more pleasurable. Summary All beginning cruisers look forward to the best part of the lifestyle. But living on a boat is also a challenge. The difference between having fun and a slog can be a few specific changes. Based on seventeen years of living aboard, I recommend the following: Get good rest. Comfortable bedding, good ground tackle, and the ability to stay cool will all contribute to a restful night's sleep. Have enough power so you can meet your needs and not feel restricted. Have reliable internet so you can be as connected as you want to be. Make meal prep easier by investing in quality equipment. Agree on standard operating procedures. Automatic habits are easier than reconsidering every move. Divide labor fairly. Everyone needs to contribute. Make sure that every crew member's needs are met. Spend time in your cruising community. Focusing on these goals will ensure cruising stays fun. To learn more, listen to the complete podcast or, if you prefer to read, check out Make Cruising More Enjoyable - Here's How (https://theboatgalley.com/make-cruising-more-enjoyable-heres-how/). Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying purchases; some other links may be affiliate links): Mattress topper (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4oLZoNo Mantus Anchors - https://www.mantusmarine.com/?affiliates=8 Caframo Fans (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3JEAMqN All Direction Wind Scoop - https://www.cruisingsolutions.com/products/breeze-bandit-wind-scoop-boat-hatch-breeze-catcher 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

If you make strong boat wiring connections the first time, you won't have to redo them later. Here are the best tips I've learned from years of doing wiring jobs on the boat. Summary: You won't find these tips in any electrical manual. They are the things I wish someone had told me the first time I picked up a crimper. Here are the basics: Start with a clean work area. If you are crimping two wires and one is challenging, start with the easy one first. Double the thickness of a tiny wire to make it easier to work with. Double-check your connections before crimping. Tape can help you line up wires, allowing you to use both hands for the crimper. Invest in good tools. It makes a difference. Make sure you're using the correct size wires for the load they must carry. To get the full details, listen to the complete podcast or, if you prefer to read, check out DIY Tips for Connecting Boat Wiring (https://theboatgalley.com/diy-electrical-connection-tips/). Links: Essential Boat Wiring Tools - https://theboatgalley.com/boat-wiring-tools/ 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

Do you have enough power available to run all the equipment you want to use on your boat? Here are some simple calculations to ensure you have all the power you need, when you need it. Summary New cruisers are often surprised by how much electricity it takes to live comfortably on a boat. But you won't be caught short if you know how to make a few simple calculations. Let's talk about calculating your boat's power needs. The key steps for 12-volt devices include: Finding the power draw of the equipment, which is usually found on the package. If the power draw is expressed in watts, convert it to amps. Multiply the number of amps by the number of hours you expect to use it. If you're looking at items that run on regular household current through your inverter, you'll need to estimate a bit. Multiply the number of amps it draws by ten to approximate the 12-volt draw once it runs through your inverter--round up. Once you know the power draw of the equipment you want to run, compare it against the battery capacity available to you. For more details and real-world examples, listen to the complete podcast or check out How to Calculate Boat Power Requirements. 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

Briefing boat guests will ensure everyone stays safe and comfortable aboard. If you are taking people out on your boat, a safety briefing is critical. Summary If you're taking guests out on your boat, one of the most important things you can do—before you ever leave the dock—is to give them a safety briefing. You'll want to cover anything they need to know to keep from being injured and to help them know what to do in an emergency. Topics should include chain of command, safety gear, first aid and other emergency equipment. Hopefully, you'll never encounter an emergency. So don't forget to instruct guests on basic safety. And you'll also want to cover everyone's role in mooring or docking. And make sure everyone stays hydrated and protected from the sun. A good briefing isn't only about what you say. You'll also want to ask about your guests. Do they have any fears? Are they prone to seasickness? Do they have any health conditions you should know about? Taking time for a good safety briefing will ensure everyone has a good time and stays safe. For more details, listen to the full pocast or, if you prefer to read, check out Safety Briefing for Boat Guests. 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

You need to ask about more than price when you're hauling your boat out at a yard. These are some questions to ask to avoid being unhappy and unable to relaunch your vessel. Summary: You need to ask about more than price when you're hauling your boat out at a yard. These are some questions to ask to avoid being unhappy and unable to relaunch your vessel. That's why you must protect yourself before the boat is hauled. Remember to ask: Can you haul my boat? Some yards have limits. And it's not just size — some will say no to catamarans, no to sailboats, no to wooden boats, or even no boats over a certain age. Does the yard require special prep? Do you have to come in at high tide or back into the lift well? Must you remove your roller-furling headsails first? Ask ahead. Do they allow DIY work? Not all yards do. Can the yard do the work I want done? If you're planning a specific project, confirm the yard has the ability and staff to do it. Do they allow outside contractors? Some yards forbid both DIY work and outside contractors, requiring you to use their in-house staff. If they have a tight schedule or you don't like the work quality, you can end up stuck. How do they handle parts and supplies? Or do you have to use their parts shop and pay a markup? Can you stay on the boat while it's in the yard? Some don't allow it at all. Others charge a fee. And they often lack amenities or have restrictions. If you can't stay on the boat, you have to factor in the cost of accommodations elsewhere. How secure is the yard? Will you and your belongings be secure? Finally, Get written quotes and read the bottom line carefully. What are the Payment terms? And how do they address work you're not happy with? And finally, what is the yard's reputation? Ask around for current references. For more details, listen to the full podcast or check out What to Ask Before Hauling Out. 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

Farmers markets are a great provisioning option for cruisers. Produce is often fresher and less bruised. And if it hasn't been refrigerated, it will keep longer on your boat. Summary Farmers markets are a great provisioning option for cruisers. Produce is often fresher and less bruised. And if it hasn'tbeen refrigerated, it will keep longer on your boat. As we head into peak harvest season in many places, count on farmers markets for provisioning. Why? Goods are usually fresher, picked locally, and not trucked across the country. Produce is often unrefrigerated, making it key for storage aboard. Finally, it's usually less bruised, offering a longer shelf life and better flavor. And it's not only produce you'll find. Look for fresh eggs, homemade baked goods, cheese, and meat with fewer preservatives (although they will last less long). Best of all, you can ask vendors questions about what they're selling. You can find farmers markets around the world. Every town has its specialties. Ask everyone in your local cruising network for locations. And, if you're sailing the ICW, you'll find farmers markets near many marinas and anchorages. Oneof the largest is the West Palm Beach GreenMarket, which runs from October through April. Check the show notes for a link to a list of markets located along the ICW. For more details, listen to the complete podcast or check out Farmers Markets - A Cruiser's Friend.- https://theboatgalley.com/farmers-markets-a-cruisers-friend/. Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying purchases; some other links may be affiliate links): Storing Food without Refrigeration - https://products.theboatgalley.com/products/storing-food-without-refrigeration Storing Food without Refrigeration (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4mgNQk6 Eating Well with a Tiny Fridge Course - https://products.theboatgalley.com/products/eating-well-with-a-tiny-fridge Pamela Douglas's List of Favorite ICW Farmers Markets - https://theboatgalley.com/wp-content/uploads/ICW-Farm-Markets-compressed.pdf 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

What is the safest place for your boat in a hurricane? Now is the time to decide, not when a storm is bearing down on you. Here's what you need to know. Summary Many factors contribute to helping your boat survive a direct hit from a hurricane. But perhaps the most important factor is location. As we head into the heart of hurricane season, start thinking about where to put your boat before you face an incoming storm. Here's what I've learned about the best sites for helping your boat survive a hurricane. We have survived two direct hits and around a dozen other storms within fifty miles of our location. Most articles discuss the best lines, fenders, and chafe gear to use. And sure, that's important. But your boat is more likely to survive a hurricane if it's in a safe spot. A secure spot protects your boat from more than just wind. You must also consider waves, storm surge, rain, and flying debris. The best location protects from as many factors as possible. In addition, can you reach the place you have selected in time? And can you evacuate from there? Make sure you evaluate it in person. Don't forget to pick a backup spot. Tying up your boat properly only helps if it's in the right place at the start. For more details, listen to the full podcast or check out The Importance of Planning Where to Put Your Boat for a Hurricane. Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 Links: Comprehensive Hurricane Prep Course - https://products.theboatgalley.com/products/hurricane All Access Pass (all courses for one low price) - https://products.theboatgalley.com/products/all-access-pass Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: "Slow Down" by Yvette Craig

When you're just starting out, how do you find the support you need as a new cruiser? Well, I have a few ideas for you. There are great ways to build your support network--both practical and emotional--while cruising. Summary One of the biggest things that makes living aboard and cruising easier—by far—is having a support network. And I'm not just talking about having friends and family who don't think you're totally nuts, although that definitely helps. Support comes in many forms. The trick is knowing where to find it—and not being afraid to tap into it. Start off online. I've met so many people who are generous with their time, knowledge, and experience. You'll also find user and special-interest groups of all kinds. But don't just get lost on the internet. Lift your head and look around you. Say hello to the crew aboard the same vessel as yours. Shout-out at the local cruiser's net for people in similar situations--homeschooling parents, pet people, snorkelers, singlehanders, whatever. Having a network of folks to talk to about both practical and emotional concerns can make cruising so much easier. Of course, we encourage anyone listening to this podcast to think of The Boat Galley as part of your helpful network. Send a quick email with questions when you read our newsletter. We, like many cruisers, are happy to help. For more specifics about building your own support network, listen to the full podcast or check out Support for Cruisers(https://theboatgalley.com/support-for-cruisers/). Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 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 Courses - https://products.theboatgalley.com/collections/courses Today's episode is sponsored by Roam Devices. Their Marine Monitor is a premium boat monitoring system that allows you to stay informed with what's happening on your boat while you're ashore for just $349 and $5 per month. Never be caught off guard by a failing battery or burnt-out bilge pump —Your boat will text you as soon as anything starts going wrong! The Roam Devices app shows a real-time view of your boat's status and location with an awesome built in remote anchor alarm. RoamDevices.com - never worry about your boat from afar again. Use coupon code BOATGALLEY for an exclusive 5% discount. Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: "Slow Down" by Yvette Craig

When working on boat projects, extra hands can help--especially smaller ones. But how do you deal with minor injuries that result? Summary For all the talk about the importance of mechanical ability and hand strength for boat projects, sometimes having hands small enough to get into tight spaces is even more crucial. And the minor injuries that come with those projects are part of boat life. When we had to restring a line on our centerboard, my hands were the only ones on board that fit, barely. I got a few cuts and scrapes, and even a blister. It's part of the process. Another time, during an engine rebuild, I was the only one able to remove the motor mounts. Why? My hands were the only ones small enough to reach. There are other examples. But the main takeaway is that if you're struggling with a boat project, consider asking crew members with smaller hands for help. Or borrow help from another vessel. Teens are great helpers for this. The second lesson is that bite boats are inevitable. The key is to keep minor injuries from becoming infected. Rely on frequent hand washing, antibiotic ointment, and keeping injuries covered. For more details about how small hands help with boat jobs and how to care for the resulting injury, listen to the complete podcast or, if you prefer to read, check out Small Hands and Caring for Minor Injuries. Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying purchases; some other links may be affiliate links): Tincture of Benzoin (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3IpvoqI Antibacterial Ointment (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/46dr8EF 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