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The Boat Galley

making boat life better

 

From Dreamer to Cruiser

Published on April 29, 2026; last updated on April 30, 2026 by Carolyn Shearlock

Advice for soon-to-be cruisers

Online course: Turn your cruising dream into a clear, step-by-step plan for getting started — even if you don’t yet own a boat or know how to sail.

The Uncertain Cruiser

Published on April 29, 2026; last updated on April 30, 2026 by Carolyn Shearlock

A couple on a boat, one smiling and one looking unsure — exploring the decision to go cruising together

Online course: A practical guide to help the Uncertain Partner and Enthusiastic Partner explore the potential joys and pitfalls of cruising life — dual track, one for each partner.

How to Learn and Map the Systems on Your New Boat

Published on April 29, 2026; last updated on April 28, 2026 by Carolyn Shearlock

Learn your boat's systems.

Learn and map the systems on your new boat with a systematized approach. Here’s a step-by- step method to learn each system.

How to Build Boating Experience for Insurance: A Realistic Path

Published on January 22, 2026; last updated on April 28, 2026 by Carolyn Shearlock

Small blue cruising sailboat with dinghy in tow, the kind of boat that builds boating experience for insurance qualification

You need experience to insure a cruising boat, and what counts is narrower than you’d think. Here’s the path that actually works.

Moving Aboard a Boat: How to Organize the Move

Published on January 12, 2026; last updated on May 21, 2026 by Carolyn Shearlock

Sealing a cardboard moving box with tape while moving aboard a boat

Everything you own has to go somewhere. Here’s the simple system that got it all to the right place the first time.

Too Much to Do Before You Cruise? Start Here

Published on January 1, 2026; last updated on May 22, 2026 by Carolyn Shearlock

A couple looking out over a marina full of sailboat masts while preparing to cruise

Drowning in the pre-cruise to-do list? Here’s the whole territory mapped out, so you can stop guessing and start moving.

How to Build Your Cruising Skill Set

Published on August 28, 2025; last updated on August 27, 2025 by Carolyn Shearlock

Do you wonder how to build cruising skills? There are some great options out there. You can even start today.

Coast Guard Documentation, State Title, and State Registration for Boats

Published on July 24, 2025; last updated on May 25, 2026 by Carolyn Shearlock

US flag flying off the stern rail of a sailboat, signaling a US-documented vessel

Title, registration, documentation: three words boaters mix up constantly. Here’s what each one actually means for your boat.

Spend Time on the Water – the Best Prep for Cruising

Published on June 26, 2025; last updated on December 31, 2025 by Carolyn Shearlock

Spend time on the water before you start cruising. It’s better than classes, books. or videos. It can’t be beat.

Taking a Marine Diesel Maintenance Class

Published on June 9, 2025; last updated on February 26, 2026 by Carolyn Shearlock/Pamela Douglas

Room with mechanical equipment and engines mounted on stands - Marine Diesel Maintenance Class

Thinking of taking a Marine Diesel Maintenance Class? Here’s what one student found helpful about the experience.

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