The Galley: what it is and what is its purpose
The galley is the beating heart of life on board. It is the place where food and everything needed to ensure sustenance and comfort during navigation are stored. Organizing and filling the galley is not a simple task, especially for novice sailors and for those who decide to take a boat holiday for the first time. Optimizing space: this is the goal.
Continue reading to find out how to pack, which products must always be onboard and also what is best not to bring.
What is stored in the galley
The galley is the equivalent of the pantry we have at home, where we store long-life food, non-perishable and sealed foods such as pasta, rice, canned goods, spices, and drinks. It is important to also include energy and nutritious foods, such as protein bars and dried fruit. It is also used to store other types of goods such as napkins, products for preserving food and also for home and personal care and hygiene.
The rules for having a perfect galley
Organizing a perfect galley requires attention and planning. Here are some fundamental rules to ensure that your galley is well stocked and managed:
- Practical packaging. Prefer packaging that is not fragile, takes up little space and is possibly stackable. After use, they should be easily collapsible to save space.
- Smart storage. Place fruit and vegetables in compartments with mesh bags, hung near the portholes, to allow air to circulate and keep them fresh for longer.
- Targeted purchases. Perishable foods should be purchased in quantities that can be stored in the fridge or icebox without exaggerating. This way you also avoid waste!
The on-board kitchen and management of the galley on the boat
When present, the on-board kitchen is an environment that requires careful management to ensure satisfying meals and safety.
Organize the on-board kitchen
— —
- —
- — —
- —
- —
- —
--
— —
- —
- —
- —
- —
- —
--
—
- — —
- —
- —
--
—
- — —
- —
- —
- —
- —
- —
- —
Make fruit and vegetables last longer and manage the galley
To make fruit and vegetables last longer on board a boat, you can adopt some conservation strategies:
- Store fruits and vegetables in ventilated places, such as baskets or racks.
- Keep different types of fruit and vegetables separate to prevent the ethylene produced by some foods from speeding up the ripening of others.
- Wrap some foods, such as lemons, in newspaper to prolong their freshness.
- Choose fruits with thick skins and sturdy vegetables that keep longer, such as cauliflower and carrots.
- Check the galley regularly to remove overripe or damaged foods that could affect others.
Supplies of fresh water and wine in the bilge
Managing fresh water and wine supplies on board is an important aspect of life on board. It is recommended to have at least 2 liters of fresh water per day per person, plus an extra 50% for any unexpected events. The tanks must be built with non-toxic materials to ensure the water is drinkable.
For wine, however, it is preferable to choose bottled bottles and store them in a dark and cool place, such as the bilge, which is the coolest point on the boat.
Be sure to check your supplies regularly and maintain good tank hygiene to avoid algae or mold growth.
galley: how to best organize it
The galley is the food storage area of a boat. Organizing it correctly is essential to guarantee peaceful and pleasant navigation. A well-organised galley allows you to optimize space, preserve food in the best possible way and ensure balanced and tasty meals.
What can't be missing in the galley?
In the galley you cannot miss:
- Water: in sufficient quantity for the entire crew and for the entire duration of the navigation.
- Non-perishable foods: such as pasta, rice, dried legumes, canned goods and condiments.
- Protein: in the form of preserved meat, fish or legumes, to maintain a balanced diet.
- Snacks and energy foods: such as dried fruit and bars, useful for quick snacks.
- First aid kit: always useful in case of emergencies.
What to avoid in the galley?
Avoid in the galley:
- Foods that spoil quickly, such as some fruits and vegetables that don’t handle long-term storage well.
- Bulky packaging that takes up too much space and is difficult to dispose of.
- Glass products that can break easily and pose a hazard.
Disposable tableware: yes or no?
Using disposable tableware may be convenient, but it is not the most sustainable choice. It is preferable to opt for reusable tableware made of resistant and easy to clean materials, such as melamine or stainless steel.
The new online food service Foodinghy
Foodinghy is an innovative service that allows you to order food online and receive it directly on board. With Foodinghy, you can choose from a wide variety of food and essential products, with the convenience of fast and reliable delivery, both in port and at anchor. This service is ideal for those who want to maximize the time spent at sea, without worrying about daily expenses.
Foodinghy has also studied and prepared galley packages, which are based on the number of people and days on board. In this way costs, spaces and waste are optimised.
Download the app now, order your food online and enjoy the sea!