4 Practical Tips for Cooking on a Boat

Cooking on a boat can feel like an overwhelming task—but with the right approach, it becomes much easier and even enjoyable. Whether you're preparing meals on a gulet or a private yacht, a bit of planning and creativity go a long way. Below are four helpful tips to make cooking on board simpler and more efficient.

1. Limited Stock: Plan Ahead and Be Creative

One of the biggest challenges when cooking at sea is that once you've set off, there's no popping back to the shop. Whatever ingredients, tools, and cookware you have on board is all you’ve got until the next stop. That’s why careful planning is essential.

• Make a detailed shopping list before you leave the dock—check everything twice.
• Embrace substitutions. You don’t need the perfect ingredient to make a great meal. Use what you have and get creative.

2. Limited Space: Keep It Minimal and Multifunctional

Boat kitchens (or galleys) are notoriously compact. You'll likely have fewer burners, a smaller oven, limited counter space, and minimal storage.

• Choose multipurpose tools—a wine bottle can double as a rolling pin, and a good can opener might also serve as a bottle opener.
• Ditch bulky packaging. Keep the cereal bag and toss the box. But always pause before throwing anything away—could it serve another purpose?

3. Limited Water: Use It Wisely

Freshwater is limited on most boats, so you’ll need to use it sparingly for cooking, drinking, cleaning produce, and washing up.

• Avoid waste. Don’t leave taps running or boil more water than you need.
• Reuse water when safe. For example, use the liquid from canned mushrooms as a flavourful base for spaghetti sauce.

4. Cooking from Scratch—Without Electricity

If you’re used to pre-packaged food or kitchen gadgets, preparing meals from scratch with no electrical appliances might feel daunting at first.

• Stick to simple recipes with basic ingredients you can prep by hand.
• Use manual tools. A sharp knife and a mixing spoon often work just as well as a food processor or masher.
• Stay aware of movement. The motion of the boat will affect your cooking—pots may slide, and utensils can topple. Be mindful and keep things secure.

Cooking on board doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little preparation, smart packing, and a flexible attitude, you’ll be amazed at what delicious meals you can prepare—even in a small, moving kitchen.