Provisions and Cooking

Sailboat Provisions and Cooking

Sailing introduces the joy of exploration and the excitement of the open sea, but on-board priorities extend beyond navigation.

While swimming is a common and expected activity during sailing vacations, prioritizing safety over indulging in a meal is essential.
However, this doesn't mean giving up the pleasure of savoring delicious food.

Even though swimming is often the main focus, it's crucial to maintain the delightful experience of culinary delights, perhaps sharing a romantic dinner under the moonlight.

Strategically Stock Your Galley

Boat's Galley

Onboard galleys might not match the equipment and space of our home kitchens, especially with limited stove capabilities and small refrigerators.

Here's a clear suggestion:

Avoid loading the boat with too much food right from the first day.

Small boat refrigerators can easily get overcrowded, causing food waste.

Instead, consider a smarter provisioning strategy, taking into account the close proximity of Greek islands, each within an average of 5 nautical miles.

This way, you can enjoy fresh provisions without the risk of overloading storage. Healthy snacks provide a practical solution for daily sustenance.

Where possible, every morning someone should do a food run for the fresh food you need that day

Stock up on essentials like toast bread, tortillas, and fruits for crafting refreshing smoothies.

Stocking Up for Mediterranean Meals

Embracing the renowned Mediterranean diet is not only feasible onboard but a delightful experience in the island tavernas we visit.

While complex Greek dishes can be savored ashore, simpler variations can be prepared on the boat.

Here's a suggested crew diet, balanced in line with the Mediterranean culinary tradition

Provision of Complete Nutrition

  1. Fresh Fruits: Apples, bananas, grapes, strawberries.
  2. Salad Vegetables: Tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, garlic, bell peppers, olives, parsley.
  3. Breakfast Cereals: Oats.
  4. Dairy Products: Milk, Feta Cheese, Yogurt.
  5. Greek Dips: Tzatziki Sauce, Tirokafteri (spicy feta cheese sauce).
  6. Protein Sources: Eggs, bacon, ham, chicken, mussels, shrimps.
  7. Carbohydrate Sources: Spaghetti, quinoa, rice, potatoes.
  8. High-Quality Fats: Olive oil.
  9. Nuts: Almonds, Walnuts.
  10. Baked Goods: Bread, Barley Rusks, Tortillas.
  11. Baking Ingredients: Vinegar, Lemon, Thyme, Oregano
  12. Beverages: Water, Tea, Coffee, Juices & Alchocol beverages

By adopting a balanced Mediterranean diet, the crew can relish both the pleasures of the sea and the gastronomic delights of the Greek islands, ensuring a rewarding and satisfying sailing experience.

Sailing Tips

Here follows two essential tips to enhance your sailing journey

  1. For those prone to seasickness, it's advisable not to have a heavy meal before setting sail.
  2. While underway, use the galley for snacks and sandwiches rather than cooking.
    Hot oil in the pan can pose a fire hazard on board.