Cooking on a yacht galley during heavy weather

Cooking on a yacht galley during heavy weather can be quite challenging, but there are specific strategies and precautions you can take to ensure safety and efficiency.
First and foremost, if the weather becomes too severe, it is safer not to cook at all and instead rely on pre-prepared or cold food. Additionally, during heavy weather, it's advisable to opt for easy dishes that don't require constant attention or complex procedures, unlike intricate recipes such as Risotto or Beef Wellington.

If you don't want to cook at all you can check our crewed yacht charters including professional yacht chefs.

Here are some tips:
Use a Gimbaled Stove/Oven: Most yachts are equipped with gimbaled stoves/ovens, which pivot to keep the cooking surface level as the boat moves. Ensure its properly maintained and functioning before setting out.
Below you will see a gimbaled oven of a youtuber.

Some boaters are very creative in making their own gimbaled stoves by themselves and below there is an example but please keep your mind that safety is priority at sea.

Use Pot Clamps or Fiddles: These are used to secure pots and pans on the stove. This prevents them from sliding or tipping over when the boat is heeling or pitching.

Use a Safety Strap: A safety strap or galley belt can be used to secure the cook in front of the stove, preventing falls.

Secure Loose Items: Before the weather turns, ensure all loose items in the galley are stowed away securely. This includes utensils, dishes, food containers, and any other items that could become projectiles.

Wear Non-Slip Shoes: The floor can get slippery, especially in rough conditions. Wearing non-slip shoes can help prevent falls.

Avoid Using Open Flames: If possible, avoid using open flames like gas burners. Electric stoves or microwaves are safer alternatives in heavy weather.

Keep a Fire Extinguisher Handy: Always have a fire extinguisher accessible in the galley.

Please have a look at the below video to see how difficult it can be:

What is your favorite dish to cook when you are sailing? Please share with us below.