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 - [email protected]

Carolyn email - [email protected]

Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7

Music: "Slow Down" by Yvette Craig

Hunting for the elusive, Japanese glass fishing floats.

Summary:

Fishermen around the world use floats of some kind to keep their nets suspended in the ocean. Originally, floats were often wood or cork. Today, they are frequently made of plastic or styrofoam. The choice of material depends on where you are.

We think the most attractive floats are made of glass. No longer in production, the last glass fishing floats were made in Japan in the 1970s.

When nets get lost or washed onto reefs, the floats continue their journey. We've been hunting for glass floats since we cruised with our kids in 2009-2010 after getting hooked on the search by friends.

Now that we're in French Polynesia, the search continues. We see them decorating homes, which means that a particular atoll (perhaps due to currents and prevailing winds) is a likely place to find them.

We found more in Takaroa, the farthest north inhabited atoll of the Tuamotus, than anywhere else. Would we be lucky there as well?

To learn more details of our search and to discover if we ever found a glass float of our own, listen to the complete podcast or check out Takaroa Treasures (https://www.fit2sail.com/countdown-to-cruising/2025/9/8/takaroa-treasures-atoll-6). The next podcast will be a joint one with Carolyn and Nica and may be delayed. Look for it sometime in the new year.

Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2

Links:

Nica email - [email protected]

Carolyn email - [email protected]

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

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

A meat favorite gets a makeover aboard. Here's how to make a crowd-pleasing vegetarian version of a classic meat dish, perfect for a boat galley!

Summary

Although the crew of Calypso isn't vegetarian, with limited cold storage, we eat like we are. And beans are a great meat substitute. The dried ones are especially fabulous on a boat.

You're probably familiar with the ubiquitous brown lentils. You can find them everywhere. Even the smallest shop in the Tuamotus has them on the shelves. But the best lentils for this recipe are the black ones. Although they are harder to find, we stocked up on them in Panama. What makes them so perfect? The flavor is delicious, but the texture is even better.

Yes, many vegetarians rely on Texturized Vegetable Protein (TVP) for that mouthfeel. But lentils are cheaper and require fewer extra ingredients.

My recipe is flexible, depending on the ingredients you have aboard. I've found it satisfies even the pickiest eaters. I saute assorted vegetables (onions, garlic, peppers, carrots, and zucchini are my go-tos). Add tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes. Add seasonings and canned corn before serving on top of bread.

For more details and the complete recipe, listen to the full podcast or check out Sloppy Joes, the Lentil Edition.

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):

Large Sauté Pan (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/44gr0Cu

TVP (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4a2HXEc

Petite Green Lentils (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/48VVfBa

Pardina Lentils (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3MjPB3a

Nica email - [email protected]

Carolyn email - [email protected]

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

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

Thanksgiving when cruising can be challenging. Today I look at past celebrations aboard.

Summary:

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. This year, however, we're 5000 miles away from home. It could be easy to feel sad about missing family, but it also brings back memories.

I associate Thanksgiving with a feeling of abundance. It's not just abou the food, but about the company. And it's the people we've shared past Thanksgivings with on the that come to mind at this time of year. Our first holiday aboard, we tied up to my family's dock and enjoyed a restaurant meal. We've celebrated the season in Trinidad, the Bahamas, off the coast of Beaufort, and drove 1000 miles the next year to celebrate with family. Last year, we celebrated Thanksgiving in the Bahamas again, and this year, we're in the Tuamotus.

We may not find the provisions we associate with the holidays. But I'm sure our potluck with friends in the next atoll over will be fun just the same. The food will be delicious and the company entertaining. I'm sure it will be a Thanksgiving to remember.

For more details, listen to the complete podcast or read the transcript.

Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2

Links:

Mustard carrot recipe - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y2fpir4YqkU

Nica email - [email protected]

Carolyn email - [email protected]

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

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

Dealing with a sick crew member aboard. Here are a couple of ways to address illness on the boat.

Summary:

How do you manage if someone gets sick on the boat? The good news, based on my experience, is that it happens rarely. But, if someone on your boat gets sick, here's what you need to know.

First, illness is rare. Cruising is a healthy way of life. Spending time in the fresh air and away from crowds makes it less likely you'll pick up bugs. Of course, it's no guarantee you'll stay healthy.

So, if you do get sick, follow your usual actions on land. Rest, hydrate, and address your symptoms. If you live with a partner, isolate to the extent possible to keep you from both ending up sick. If you can avoid moving, do it.

Finally, if you are someone more likely to catch germs because of an underlying, chronic condition or just bad luck, choose cruising grounds that keep you near medical care.

For more details, listen to the complete podcast or check out the transcript on The Boat Galley website.

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):

Comprehensive Med Kit (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4p3AYPz

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

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:

1. Get good rest. Comfortable bedding, good ground tackle, and the ability to stay cool will all contribute to a restful night's sleep.
2. Have enough power so you can meet your needs and not feel restricted.
3. Have reliable internet so you can be as connected as you want to be.
4. Make meal prep easier by investing in quality equipment.
5. Agree on standard operating procedures. Automatic habits are easier than reconsidering every move.
6. Divide labor fairly. Everyone needs to contribute.
7. Make sure that every crew member's needs are met.
8. 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

A Tuamotus shopping experience where the ship is a store. Buying directly from the supply ship in Takaroa was a lovely cruising lesson

Summary

Cruising offers opportunities to have many new experiences and to learn new skills. We recently learned how to "shop the ship" in the Tuamotus. Let me tell you about it.

Friends near our anchorage introduced us to this new-to-us form of provisioning. The ship arrives once a month from Tahiti, offering the possibility of better prices than the store. We were most interested in buying beer.

The ship offers vegetables, but even when they're cheaper than the store, they may not be in good condition after being handled at every previous port. The beer, however, was sold at the bargain price we had been hoping for.

Offloading the ship offers both a work zone and a center of social activity. Just imagine a party with cranes and forklifts.

A few things you must know include:

• You must bring empty bottles to exchange for the beer you buy. Contain them in a plastic crate.
• Some items are sold by the ship and some by the captain. They will tell you which is which and where to pay for your items.
• Check vegetables before you buy; they may not be very high quality.

To get more details, listen to the full podcast or, if you prefer to read, check out "It's a Ship; It's a Store (https://www.fit2sail.com/countdown-to-cruising/2025/9/5/its-a-ship-its-a-store ).

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):

Shopping backpack (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4o7drgj

Dry bag backpack cooler (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4njeV5V

Reef-safe sunscreen (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4npQTGF

Nica email - [email protected]

Carolyn email - [email protected]

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