Welcome back to another installment of The Log’s favorite column: Galley Gadgets! If you’re setting sail for the weekend or living aboard full-time, galley efficiency is key. Limited storage, shifting waves, and the constant battle against clutter make space-saving solutions essential for a stress-free time on the water.
This edition of Galley Gadgets brings you three small but mighty products that will transform your boating experience: nylon gear hammocks for storing produce, nesting pan sets for compact cookware, and under-the-counter paper plate mounts to keep your galley organized. These affordable and practical additions will make your life easier, whether you’re in a center console fishing boat, a weekend cruiser, or a liveaboard sailboat.
Nylon Gear Hammocks: The Ultimate Storage Solution for Produce and More
One of the biggest challenges in a boat galley is storing fresh produce while ensuring it doesn’t roll around, bruise, or take up valuable counter space. Enter the nylon gear hammock, an affordable yet effective solution that keeps fruits, vegetables, and other essentials suspended, secure, and easily accessible.
For as little as $6, a nylon gear hammock can be a game-changer. By utilizing unused overhead or wall space, it prevents clutter while allowing air to circulate, helping to extend the life of fresh produce. No more rotting bananas in a closed cabinet or apples tumbling off the counter when you hit a wave!
Several options on the market cater to different boating needs. West Marine’s 60″ Gear Hammock with Hooks provides a stretchable and durable solution, complete with pre-installed hooks for easy attachment to bulkheads or under cabinets. For those looking for a slightly cheaper alternative, the Sea Dog Nylon Gear Hammock offers similar durability but without pre-installed hooks, allowing for customized installation. Another budget-friendly option is the SeaSense Nylon Gear Hammock, available conveniently on Amazon. It features a smaller mesh design, making it ideal for securing not just produce but also lightweight kitchen tools. No matter which option you choose, a gear hammock is a simple, low-cost way to enhance storage efficiency in your galley.
Nesting Pan Sets: Space-Saving Cookware for Every Galley
When space is at a premium, bulky pots and pans can quickly overtake cabinets and make cooking a hassle. Nesting pan sets are designed for boaters, stacking neatly into one compact bundle while offering all the versatility of traditional cookware.
A quality nesting cookware set allows you to boil, fry, and sauté without cluttering your galley. With detachable handles, they also fit easily into tight storage areas, making them ideal for small boats.
For serious boat chefs, Magma’s 10-Piece Stainless Steel Nesting Induction Cookware is a top-tier option. This marine-grade stainless steel set features triple-clad bottoms for even heat distribution and removable handles for compact storage. Although it comes at a higher price point, around $270, its durability and high-performance design make it a worthy investment for long-term boaters.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Dash SmartStore 5-in-1 Multipurpose Nesting Cookware Set is a great alternative, available at retailers like Macy’s and Kohl’s for around $100. While made of aluminum instead of stainless steel, it still provides space-saving convenience for occasional boaters or those with smaller cooking needs.
At the premium end of the spectrum, Magma’s Professional Series Gourmet 10-Piece Cookware Set with Ceramica® Non-Stick elevates galley cooking to another level. Priced at nearly $400 at West Marine, this set features Ceramica® non-stick coating, making it PTFE-free and environmentally friendly. If you don’t mind splurging, this set is the ultimate galley cookware upgrade.
Regardless of your budget, a nesting pan set will make cooking aboard easier, cleaner, and more organized. Say goodbye to clattering stacks of pots and hello to compact, efficient cooking!
Under-the-Counter Paper Plate Mounts: The Game-Changer in Galley Organization
One of the biggest annoyances in a boat galley is keeping paper plates clean, dry, and accessible. Storing them in cabinets takes up valuable space, and leaving them on the counter means they slide around in rough waters.
An under-the-counter paper plate mount is a simple, affordable solution that keeps plates secure and within reach without adding clutter.
A great option for budget-conscious boaters is the Camco Pop-A-Plate Dispenser, available for under $10 at Camping World. Designed for standard 9-inch paper plates, this compact and lightweight mount makes serving meals easier and more convenient. For those who prefer a wall-mounted solution, the Bamboo Paper Plate Holder on Amazon is a stylish alternative, offering a sleek wooden design that fits multiple plate sizes. If you’re looking for something more versatile, the COZKEEP Adjustable Paper Plate Dispenser, priced at $39.99, provides customizable sizing to accommodate different plate dimensions.
Whether you opt for under-the-counter or wall-mounted storage, having a dedicated paper plate holder means less clutter, easier meal prep, and a cleaner galley.
Small Galley Gadgets, Big Boating Benefits
Every inch of space matters on a boat. These three simple products — nylon gear hammocks, nesting pan sets, and under-the-counter paper plate mounts — help boaters stay organized, efficient, and stress-free.
Having a gear hammock in your galley ensures that produce is always within reach while staying fresh for longer periods. A nesting pan set eliminates the clutter of multiple pots and pans while offering the same cooking versatility as traditional cookware. Meanwhile, an under-the-counter paper plate mount provides a practical solution to keep your galley tidy and plates readily accessible.
No matter your budget, boat size, or galley layout, these small but mighty gadgets are guaranteed to make your boating experience smoother and more enjoyable.
See you next time for another installment of The Log’s Galley Gadgets.
