Cruise at sea: How to equip yourself to cook on board?

When cruising (whether it is more or less long), eating well is important, for morale, as for health! We always appreciate being able to enjoy a good meal at anchor or at sea' and in good company ! But before you can cook on board, what equipment is essential to equip your boat and kitchen? Here is our advice (which is not exhaustive, but which can give you a basis) to equip your boat effectively. Feel free to share your advice, which will be welcome!

What kitchen?

Cooking on board requires a minimum of organization. The space available and its equipment must be taken into account. The kitchen of a boat is often a small space and the way of cooking will not be the same. For a long cruise, however, opt for a refrigerator (with floor if possible which makes it possible to better arrange its food supplies), a marine cooker with double fire (minimum) with saucepans and ledges and gas oven as well as a sink with double tray. Finally, think of being able to wedge yourself to cook when it lodges and opt for a dustbin integrated directly into a piece of furniture. Much easier to use, even in bad weather!

What cookware?

To please yourself on board, there are a few essentials to have for cooking, both in the containers and in the utensils. Plan a large pot or pressure cooker that will allow you to cook in large quantities, simmer good dishes and even make your own bread! Also think of a pan (large if you only have to choose one), a pan (medium if you already have a casserole), a dish for the oven. Don't forget the salad bowls (2 are enough), which will allow you to make your preparations, but which will also serve as containers to serve the dishes (salads in particular).

The kettle and coffee maker are essential to enjoy hot drinks or simply to heat water!

What utensils?

When it comes to utensils, invest in good knives! A smaller one for everything that is vegetables for example and a bigger one for fish or meat. Think of the peeler, to peel fruits and vegetables, the corkscrew with bottle opener to open a good bottle of wine or enjoy a cold beer, the cutting board for your preparations and the colander (essential for pasta and rice, staple food in boat).

Among the other indispensable ones, here is a list (not exhaustive of course): a grater, a whisk, a wooden spoon, a spatula, a measuring glass (or a small battery-powered scale), a juicer (it is so pleasant to drink a fresh orange juice in the morning) or a gas lighter that will replace your matches (which take water far too quickly!).

Today, there are many accessories that can be folded down (like the colander), which will save space on board.

What dishes?

Everything will depend on the number of people you are sailing. Choose unbreakable dishes made of melamine or bamboo for example. There is now a wide choice of design and style to accessorize your boat with taste. The same applies to lenses, which are often made of polycarbonates and can be provided with a non-slip base.

Flat plates, cutlery (forks, knives with and without teeth, soup and coffee spoons), soup plates or small bowls (practical for mixed salads or pasta), coffee and tea cups, low glasses. If you have the place, to embark some wine glasses, it is always more sympathetic to enjoy a good meal accompanied by a good wine in a glass with foot !

What accessories?

These accessories are not essential to cook, but rather in your kitchen... Bring tea towels and hand towels, sponges (a scraper why not if you cook in the oven...), dishwashing liquid (we recommend ecological products) or garbage bags..

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