Ahoy there! If you’re planning a journey on a boat, then it’s important to know the dos and don’ts of cooking on board. Cooking aboard a boat can be quite different than in a traditional kitchen on land. The space is limited, and you need to pay attention to everything, including the fuel, cooking utensils, and the vessel’s stability. In this blog, I’ll be sharing some tips for safe cooking on board boats - so that every meal you prepare is not only delicious but also carefully thought out to avoid any mishaps. Let’s get started!

Tip #1: Check the Fuel🛥️

The fuel you use on your boat has a direct impact on the safety of your cooking. Make sure you use Fuel that is considered safe for use in a marine environment and doesn’t produce harmful vapors or smoke. Gas stoves are a popular choice for boaters but make sure the fuel you use is compatible with the stove. Also, keep an eye on the fuel level; it’s always better to have extra fuel than not enough. 🔥

A picture of a gas stove in a marine environment

Tip #2: Secure your Kitchen Utensils🍴

Boats move. A lot. And that can cause kitchen items to slide around or even fall. Make sure all your cutlery and utensils are secured in their drawers and cabinets while sailing, with non-slip liners or locks. This will help prevent any accidents and injuries and, of course, will keep your galley organized and tidy. Don’t forget to secure any pots and pans on the stove, too, using stovetop fiddles and gimbals.⚓

A galley with secured drawers

Tip #3: Keep an Eye on the Weather ⛈️

Cooking on board a boat means cooking in a volatile environment - where things can easily go wrong. Keep an eye on the weather forecast, and make sure you’re ready for any sudden changes. Wind and waves can impact cooking, making it harder to keep pots and pans on burners, so use a lid wherever you can to avoid spills. Moreover, heavy winds can cause fumes to accumulate in the cabin, so hood vents, if available, should be in operation. 🌊

A picture of a storm approaching a boat

Tip #4: Use the Right Amount of Water💧

Whether you’re cooking pasta, rice, or potatoes, be mindful of the amount of water you use. A boat’s stability in the water can be dramatically affected by the uncontrolled movement of water inside pots. Make sure there’s enough space in the pot for the water to move around freely but never more than three-quarters full. Always keep a close eye on the pot when it’s on the stove and adjust the heat if you see excessive water movement. 💦

A picture of a pot with too much water

Tip #5: Clean up After Yourself🧹

After cooking, don’t forget to clean up. A clean and organized galley is not only safer but also more efficient. Make sure to put things away in their proper place. Any spills should be wiped down immediately, and dishes washed and put away. Leaving dirty dishes around can quickly turn into a chaotic mess on a boat, leading to accidents and making cooking more challenging. 🧽

A picture of a clean and organized galley

That’s all for the tips for safe cooking on board boats! Remember, cooking on a boat can be both fun and challenging. Use these tips to ensure your cooking is safe and you’ll be sure to have some tasty meals on your journey. Bon Appetit! 🍽️

A picture of a boat kitchen with a delicious looking meal on the counter