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The Boat Galley

making boat life better

 

Encouragement
Encouragement
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The reality just not living up to the dream? Wondering if you were nuts to buy a boat?
 
You're not alone.
 
Before you decide to sell her, read how we coped with some of the common frustrations and that time Carolyn was totally, completely and entirely fed up!

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How to Avoid Bad Sailing Days

Published on May 31, 2026; last updated on June 2, 2026 by Carolyn Shearlock

Had a trip from hell and wondering if this is really what you want to be doing for “fun?” Future trips will almost certainly be better – here’s why.

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 Get Past New Cruiser Fear?

Published on February 26, 2026; last updated on March 3, 2026 by Carolyn Shearlock

How do you fight nerves when doing something a little scary? Me? I just fake it . . .

The Secret to Cruising With Family

Published on February 23, 2026; last updated on March 3, 2026 by Carolyn Shearlock/Pamela Douglas

Man with airplane, boy, girl and woman on the bow of a sailboat - cruising with family

What’s the secret of avoiding conflict while cruising with family? Communicate better by treating each other like crew.

New to Your Boat and Overwhelmed?

Published on February 11, 2026; last updated on February 10, 2026 by Carolyn Shearlock

Beginning cruising can be overwhelming — there are so many things to figure out. Where to start in figuring your new life out.

You’ll Never Be Ready. Go Anyway!

Published on February 4, 2026; last updated on February 3, 2026 by Carolyn Shearlock

Three Things to Know Before Going Cruising

Thinking of going on an extended cruise? Most of us don’t feel “ready” and can think of ten things we need to do before going. If the boat is seaworthy without them, go anyway!

Adjusting to Life Aboard: The Mental Side Nobody Warned You About

Published on January 15, 2026; last updated on March 18, 2026 by Carolyn Shearlock

Two sailors examining a boat and working through a problem together

Nobody warned you it would feel like this. Here’s why it does — and what actually helps.

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.

Where are Your Dream Cruising Grounds?

Published on October 2, 2025; last updated on September 30, 2025 by Carolyn Shearlock

Where are your dream cruising grounds? How you answer that question when people ask can be the difference between feeling like a failure or having fun.

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