The Boat Galley

It's easy to be overwhelmed by all the systems on a new-to-you boat and only learn how something works when you need to use it or it breaks. That can be pretty stressful, though, feeling that you can't do anything without an owner's manual in your hand. Carolyn Shearlock presents an alternative way to get to know your new boat inside and out, so you'll feel confident and stay sane. Sponsor: Storing Food without Refrigeration ebook Coupon code: PODCAST - $1 off Music: "Slow Down" by Yvette Craig

There is so much to learn about a new boat! Not just how she sails and/or motors - and how to start the engine, check the oil and deploy the anchor - but all the other systems as well. How do I turn on the bilge pumps? The hot water heater? The stove? What's an inverter? How do you learn it all without going nuts? Carolyn Shearlock details a proven method for learning how everything works on your new boat that won't overwhelm you. Sponsor: Fastseas.com Music: "Slow Down" by Yvette Craig

It’s easy to get caught in the endless discussion of what is BEST – best boat, best workout, best way of eating. In this episode of The Boat Galley Podcast’s Fit2Sail, Nica Waters talks about a strategy that will help you get past the paralysis and get started, whether it’s deciding on a boat or jumping into a workout program. Sponsor: Storing Food without Refrigeration ebook Coupon code: PODCAST - $1 off Music: "Slow Down" by Yvette Craig

There's always something that needs to be done on a boat: maintenance, repair or an upgrade. Many cruisers start out hiring professionals for this work, then slowly start doing more and more of it themselves. What is it about boat ownership that turns everyone into a DIY-er? Carolyn Shearlock discusses why she and her husband have tackled all sorts of jobs on their two cruising boats, even though it hasn't always saved money or time. Sponsor: Fastseas.com Music: "Slow Down" by Yvette Craig

The Sea of Cortez is a popular first stop for cruisers coming from the West Coast of the US (or you can buy a boat already there), while the Bahamas are popular with East Coast cruisers. Both are great and popular cruising grounds . . . and very different from one another. Carolyn Shearlock has cruised both and compares them in terms of weather, hurricane risk, sailing opportunities, snorkeling, hiking, towns, services and more. Sponsor: Fastseas.com Music: "Slow Down" by Yvette Craig

If you just bought a cruising boat and woke up the next morning wondering what in the world you were thinking, don’t fret. It’s a pretty common reaction that goes with buying your first boat! What gear do you need to buy? What repairs are needed? What upgrades do you want? How do I make sure to make the right choices? And so many more questions . . . Other cruisers gave the Shearlocks great advice, and in this podcast, Carolyn passes it on. Music: "Slow Down" by Yvette Craig

Now that you've found a boat want to buy, how does the transaction work? What about a loan? Survey? Insurance? Closing? What do you have to do? If you have a broker, what will they do? What about a documentation service? Learn the ins and outs of the whole process from Carolyn Shearlock, who bought her first boat the traditional way with a broker and documentation service and went the DIY route with her second boat. Sponsor: Fastseas.com Music: "Slow Down" by Yvette Craig

Found a boat that sounds like it might be right for you? Planning to go see it — or several? What do you need to do to prepare for the initial inspection? And what should you be sure to do once you’re there? Just as with buying a house, there are lots of things to look at and it can be overwhelming. Carolyn Shearlock offers time-tested tips to find the perfect boat when looking at boats in person, as well as a handy form for keeping notes. Music: "Slow Down" by Yvette Craig

Starting to look at boats for sale? There are so many choices, it can be totally overwhelming. Carolyn Shearlock lays out the method that ensured she and her husband only spent time and money personally viewing strong candidates for "the right boat." Sponsor: SeaTech Systems, offering cruiser-tested solutions for weather and communications. Coupon Code: Free shipping through July 2018 with GALLEY2018 at checkout. Music: "Slow Down" by Yvette Craig

Thinking about buying a cruising boat? Dreaming of palm trees and white sand beaches, or the higher latitudes? Maybe coastal cruising, the Great Loop or an inland lake? It's an exciting time, but also a little scary. Where do you even start? How do you know what type of boat you want? Carolyn Shearlock offers clear guidance on the initial research needed to ensure you buy the right boat. Sponsor: BoatAffair Coupon code: BoatGalley18 – 5% off Music: "Slow Down" by Yvette Craig