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The Boat Galley

making boat life better

All Articles – Newest to Oldest

You CAN Do It

Published on June 26, 2017; last updated on January 5, 2026 by Carolyn Shearlock

I get it. Trying something new can be intimidating. That’s true even after ten years of living aboard and cruising. But I’ve discovered that I can do a lot more than I think I can!

Hurricane Prep and Editable Checklist

Published on June 18, 2017; last updated on January 1, 2026 by Carolyn Shearlock

A hurricane seen from space, the kind of storm a boat hurricane plan prepares your boat to survive

A hurricane prep checklist for your boat will reduce stress if a storm is headed your way and can help get your hurricane plan approved. FREE download.

Better Window Covers for Your Boat

Published on June 12, 2017; last updated on March 9, 2026 by Carolyn Shearlock

Big windows in a boat are wonderful for providing views but can really heat up the inside. Regular shades work most of the year, but better window shades can lower interior temps by 10°. Just 5 minutes and less than $20!

ugowear Waterproof Phone Case & Wallet

Published on May 29, 2017; last updated on December 31, 2025 by Carolyn Shearlock

ugoWear waterproof case

Worried about dropping your phone in the water? Here’s a universal waterproof case that will fit any phone and floats so you can find it.

Hot Flashes in a Hot Climate

Published on May 22, 2017; last updated on January 2, 2026 by Carolyn Shearlock

Fifteen coping strategies for hot flashes and lowered heat tolerance that can accompany menopause — and 3 boat features that will really help.

Bottom Cleaning Tools

Published on May 17, 2017; last updated on March 28, 2026 by Carolyn Shearlock

Planning to clean the bottom of your boat yourself? A complete list of the tools you need for bottom cleaning.

Mistakes Happen

Published on May 15, 2017; last updated on January 5, 2026 by Carolyn Shearlock

Yes, mistakes will happen. But happens next?

The Photo That Saved Us $120

Published on May 10, 2017; last updated on December 31, 2025 by Carolyn Shearlock

We like having a photo record of our travels . . . but our camera is paying for itself, too. If you can find a part number, you may not be locked into buying a proprietary part!

Hiring a Diver to Clean Your Boat’s Bottom

Published on May 8, 2017; last updated on January 2, 2026 by Carolyn Shearlock

Wondering how you’ll keep the bottom of your boat clean of growth as you cruise? Info and tips on hiring a dive service to do it for you.

Nail Care Tools

Published on May 3, 2017; last updated on January 12, 2023 by Carolyn Shearlock

Sick and tired of rusting nail clippers and moldy emery boards. Me too! So I found better ones . . . that are still affordable.

Sick and tired of rusting nail clippers and moldy emery boards. Me too! So I found better ones . . . that are still affordable.

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Welcome

Carolyn Shearlock

Hi! I'm Carolyn Shearlock. My husband and I have been living on a boat and cruising over 17 years and 13,000 miles, first on a Tayana 37 monohull and then on a 34' Gemini catamaran. Along the way, we sold pretty much everything we owned (twice!), gained a great boat dog, had a bunch of wonderful times and some adventures . . . and learned a ton about what does and doesn't work!

How Can We Help You?

I'm curious about the cruising life What is it, who does it, and what's it really like day to day?
I'm tempted — but is it realistic for my situation? My budget, my health, my partner, my life, my skills (or lack thereof)
I'm getting ready to go Buying a boat, getting insurance, planning to move aboard
I'm aboard and navigating the learning curve How do I make it the life I dreamed of?

Latest Articles

A pile of plastic, cardboard and cans, the kind of packaging waste to cut before it becomes trash on a boat

Reduce Trash On A Boat

June 21, 2026

Most of the trash that overwhelms a boat never needed to come aboard. Here are the changes that made the biggest difference for us.

How Do I Know If I’d Like Cruising?

June 19, 2026

The boats at anchor look so pretty. What would it be like to live on one? A dream or a nightmare? How to know if you’d like cruising and living on a boat.

Is Your Lifesling Ready For Use? Are you SURE?

June 17, 2026

Someday, your life or the life of someone you love may depend on a Lifesling. How to make sure it will deploy correctly.

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