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

Here are some pratical hints about applying for a long stay visa in French Polynesia: the three steps to follow so you can leisurely enjoy the islands. Note - this information is current as of July 2025.

If you're an American who wants to stay longer in French Polynesia than the standard 90-day visa allows, you must apply for a long-stay visa. However, unlike in some Caribbean nations, such as the Bahamas, you cannot simply extend your visa when it is nearing expiration. If you don't have a long-stay visa, you'll be required to leave. So, if you worry about completing boat tasks on time or if you want to explore this beautiful country longer, apply for a long-stay visa from Panama.

The basics: You need to request an appointment at the French Embassy online. It takes time to complete the request, and you'll need to have documents handy. You will ultimately need to visit the Embassy three times to complete all the steps. Your request requires approval from both Panama and Papeete in Tahiti. That means it could take weeks for your visa to arrive. Finally, you'll find helpful resources in the links below. To get complete details of the process, listen to the full podcast or check out  Applying for a Long Stay Visa for French Polynesia (https://www.fit2sail.com/countdown-to-cruising/2025/5/9/applying-for-a-long-stay-visa-for-french-polynesia).

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):

Jacaranda’s Journey - https://www.jacarandajourney.com/fp90days 

SV Sabado post - https://www.svsabado.com/2024/03/28/applying-for-a-french-polynesia-long-stay-visa-from-panama/ 

 French visa website - https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/web/france-visas/visa-wizard#/  

Nica email - [email protected]

Carolyn email - [email protected]

Today’s episode of the Boat Galley Podcast is brought to you by Revolve Tec USA—the innovators behind the smartest tool on your boat.” Smart boaters are switching to the Revolve 3-in-1 Boating Tool—a marine-tough, extendable, floatable system that replaces your boat hook, stiff brush, and soft brush in one compact design. Whether you’re docking, scrubbing the deck, or cleaning your hull, the 3-in-1 boating tool gives you more utility, less gear, and zero compromises. Ditch the clutter. Upgrade your deck setup with gear that’s built to do more. Visit BoatToolPro.com and use coupon code BOAT10 to get 10% off your order today!

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

Why should you add corn tortillas to your boat pantry? Well, they're nexpensive, ubiquitous, and long-lasting. Corn tortillas from the grocery store are fantastic! 

Summary

It's fun making things from scratch on the boat. But there are some great "cheater" staples. One of my favorites is corn tortillas.

Why are tortillas a great pantry staple on a boat? They last a long time--much longer than wheat tortillas. Corn tortillas don't need refrigeration. You can find them in many supermarkets. And they serve as a great base for many easy boat meals--enchiladas, quesadillas, and even nachos. 

Check out the shownotes for a recipe book with even more great suggestions. 

For more details, like which type of corn tortillas last the longest, listen to the full podcast or check out the transcript, Corn Tortillas for your Boat Pantry.

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):

Taqueria Tacos Cookbook (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3Idyr5d

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

When a named storm is forecast for your area, how long do you have to prepare your boat? Listen carefully for the tips few realize make the difference between being prepared and caught.

Summary

When your boat is in the path of a forecast hurricane, knowing how long you have to prepare is invaluable for good results. But you need some basic information to figure it out.

First, understand that the National Hurricane Center refers to the eye of the storm when they predict arrival times. Gale-force winds will extend considerably farther. And you want to be fully prepared before they hit you. If you have to evacuate further inland, you'll have even less time.

Second, although it seems like a simple calculation, there are two unknown variables to consider. The storm size can change. The speed of the storm may also increase. You want to keep tracking the storm to stay so you have the best information.

Finally, listening to the forecasters' discussions about the storm. It can help you understand how confident they are about their predictions so you are better prepared. 

To get the full details and to hear the story behind this post, listen to the full podcast or check out Hurricane Prep: How Much Time Do You Have?

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):

National Hurricane Center - https://www.nhc.noaa.gov 

Comprehensive Hurricane Prep for Boaters Course - https://products.theboatgalley.com/products/hurricane

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

Sweet potato black bean tacos are the perfect boat recipe--ideal for when stores are slim. Versatile and easy to customize, one secret ingredient makes it really special.  

Summary

When your stores are low and fresh produce is scarce, sweet potato black bean tacos are my go-to meal. Adding one secret ingredient takes it from delicious to over-the-moon fantastic. We never tire of it.

Beans are a great source of protein. We don't have a freezer. Dried beans last a long time without taking up space. Add freeze-dried sweet potatoes (if you don't have fresh ones), aromatics, some garnish, homemade tortillas, and our secret ingredient and you have a tasty and filling dinner. 

And the secret ingredient that adds just a bit extra? It's pumpkin seeds. They add a nice crunch that makes the meal truly special.

For the recipe, listen to the complete podcast or check out Tuesday on Board (https://www.fit2sail.com/countdown-to-cruising/2025/6/9/taco-tuesday-on-board).

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):

Podcast Review of Roam Devices - https://theboatgalley.com/🎧roam-device-review-for-monitoring-your-boat-from-afar/

Harmony House Dried Sweet Potatoes (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4626bMw

Masa Flour (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/40bwyvK

Tortilla Press (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/44dJcff

Yogurt Starter (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/449J14z

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

Cruising in hot weather? Why not cool off by enjoying happy hour in the water? Here are a few tips to keep it fun and safe.

Summary

Our cruising grounds exposed us to frequent high temperatures, sometimes over 100 degrees F. How did we keep cool? With lots of swimming. And not just throughout the day but when socializing with friends during happy hour. Sitting in shallow water off the beach or off the stern of an anchored boat is perfect for staying cool while visiting.

Safety is key. A line off the stern not only gives visitors a place to hook their dinghies but also provides swimmers a place to hang on. In high winds or strong currents, add a few lines with floating fenders.

Speaking of floating, swim belts and noodles provide a little helpful flotation. And make sure you keep an eye on everyone. Especially when alcohol is present. Having your swim ladder down is also smart for anyone unable to return to their dinghy on their own. 

And don't turn up the music so loud you couldn't hear someone cry for help.

Boaters will bring their own drinks. If coolers stay in the dinghy, cover them with towels to keep them cool longer. 

We found people often weren't hungry in the heat. So we stopped bothering with food.

Insulated mugs keep things cool. And have extra coozies for people drinking from cans, in case someone forgets to bring their own.

Finally, keep that cool feeling going after happy hour ends. If you prep a cold dinner in the morning, you can serve it when you're hungry. If you prefer to read, check out Happy Hour IN the Water and listen to the full podcast for more details.

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):

Swim Belt (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/406xktX

Insulated Mug (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4jJvKVT

Meal Ideas for Hot Days - https://theboatgalley.com/meals-hot-days/

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

Grocery Shopping, Marquesas-style. Here are three  things to know about restocking your food supply in the Marquesas.

Summary

Before we arrived in the Marquesas, I worried about the ease of provisioning groceries. Yes, everyone eats everywhere. However, I had heard that stores were mostly nonexistent, had few items available, and what was found would be expensive. What was the reality?

First, you'll find three types of "stores": magasins (small, department-store-ish businesses), green markets, and locals selling affordable produce from their gardens.

Second, we found most of what we needed. We had heard that black beans were hard to find, so we stocked up in Panama, as we eat them frequently. But everything we looked for, we found.

And finally, necessities (like flour, canned vegetables, and some meats) were subsidized by the French government to make them affordable. You can find them by looking for red tags. These appear either on the item or the shelf.

Bottom line? While costs for many items were higher than we're used to in the United States and Canada, the availability of produce from local sellers and subsidized groceries makes provisioning manageable.

For more details, listen to the full podcast or check out Grocery Shopping Marquesas-Style - https://www.fit2sail.com/countdown-to-cruising/2025/5/26/grocery-shopping-marquesas-style.

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):

Gear Hammocks  (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3HoskKR

Storing Food Without Refrigeration -  https://products.theboatgalley.com/products/storing-food-without-refrigeration 

Eating Well with a Tiny Fridge Course -  https://products.theboatgalley.com/products/eating-well-with-a-tiny-fridge 

Nica email - [email protected]

Carolyn email - [email protected]

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 have to leave your boat, are you confident all is well aboard? You can be with the Roam Device, an affordable and easy remote boat monitor system.

Summary

John Herlig from The Boat Galley team recently installed the Roam marine monitor hub on his 1967 Rawson 30 sailboat, currently anchored in Florida while he is away from the boat. He found the installation and setup of the Roam device faster and easier than expected.

The device monitors vital boat systems and connects to a cell network to send data to the cloud. Users can access data from an app on their phone. 

The price is affordable at around $350 if you order directly from RoadDevices.com. Monitoring costs $60 a year. (See a special offer from Roam in the links below.)

John was able to set up his unit quickly and installed it in his battery locker. Basic features include GPS monitoring, a high water alarm, cabin temperature and humidity, and battery voltage. You can add additional monitors if you wish, but John's needs were simple.

He has two favorite features of the unit: 1) remote battery monitoring and 2) GPS location to track the boat's swing at anchor. The battery monitoring feature gives John peace of mind after an earlier event where his flooded lead cell batteries went dry in the heat and humidity and stopped charging. If the batteries drop below a set charge, the system sends an alarm, even if the app is not open on your phone. 

The GPS location tracker creates position dots that populate every time it takes a reading, about every three minutes. You can use historical datasets to see if your boat has moved from its expected position. 

John plans to set up the bilge alarm sensors when he returns to his boat again. The system can also monitor if a hatch is open, if humidity is high, or the state of the shore power connection. 

He found it easy and affordable. To learn more check out the transcript or listen to the full podcast.

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):

Roam Devices - https://roamdevices.com

John Herlig's website - https://avedelmar.com

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

Everything you need to know about this cruiser-based, crowd-sourced, social app. We rely on it every day!

Summary

When you've arrived at a new anchorage, how do you figure out how to find necessities? Especially if you're out of range of The Boat Galley cruising guides? After all, there are places where cruising guides don't exist. Luckily I have a great resource to share. 

Cruising is more than dolphins and beautiful sunsets. Sometimes, you gotta get stuff done, like buying groceries or diesel. Or maybe you're just craving a restaurant meal or want a fun day off the boat. 

You have a few options for finding information. You can read guides and hope the information isn't out of date. You can review Google Maps. You can even dinghy around to other boaters and ask. They're all helpful resources. And the last might even introduce you to a new friend.

We rely on the app NoForeignLand.com. No information is hidden behind a paywall. There are no pop-up ads. You can support them on Patreon. But they don't sell user's information. Social features include tracking other boats. Information is provided by cruisers for cruisers.

One feature even allows you to call for information from others directly on the app. Created by cruisers for cruisers, the information is relevant to our needs. I highly recommend it, no matter where you're traveling.

For more details, listen to the full podcast or check out No Foreign Land - An Excellent Resource 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):

 NoForeignLand - https://www.noforeignland.com  

Boat Galley Cruising Guides -  https://products.theboatgalley.com/collections/quick-reference-guides 

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