Sailing is pure adventure. But adventure also means challenge, especially when it comes to feeding a hungry crew. Gone are the local grocery stores; welcome to the world of self-catering. So how do you combine taste, convenience and nutrition on a sailboat where every inch counts? It's not just a question of "surviving" at sea, but of making each meal a moment of pleasure, sharing and energy to continue the adventure. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure?
Plan ahead
Before you leave, it's essential to plan your meals for the entire duration of the trip, before the first stopover. Take into account not only food preferences, but also the specific needs of each crew member, such as allergies or dietary restrictions. You'll also need to ensure that your boat is adequately stocked with non-perishable foodstuffs, while leaving a little flexibility for unforeseen circumstances, such as changes in weather or itinerary.
An increasingly popular technique among sailors is the use of sous-vide dishes. Prepared in advance, they are easy to reheat on board, reducing the time spent in the galley. These hermetically sealed meals retain their flavors and textures, making it possible to enjoy a good meal without stress. Caroline, who was crossing the Mediterranean, had equipped herself with vacuum-sealed chicken tikka dishes. After a tiring day, being able to enjoy a home-cooked meal in just a few minutes transformed the experience.
Choose foods rich in nutrients and proteins
At sea, every centimetre of storage space counts. Maximize the nutritional value of food while optimizing space. Opt for legumes, nuts, seeds, canned or dehydrated fruits and vegetables. These foods are easy to store and provide essential vitamins and minerals, while allowing you to prepare balanced meals, even in difficult sailing conditions.
Protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass and energy, especially during periods of intense physical activity, such as maneuvering on a sailboat. For optimum intake, combine legumes with cereals such as rice or pasta, thus forming complete proteins. Rice, in particular, is an excellent food to store: it takes up little space, keeps for a long time and is extremely versatile. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, it provides a solid base for nutritious, satiating meals.
Optimize your space
Onboard kitchens are often cramped, but that shouldn't stop you from cooking great meals. To save space, opt for folding or multifunctional utensils. Nicolas, a seasoned sailor, always uses his compact Cocotte-Minute on board. Not only does it make cooking faster, but it's ideal for preparing soups or simmered dishes with a minimum of gas.
Stay hydrated
Hydration is crucial to maintaining your energy levels and overall health. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially in hot climates. Also remember to include water-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables.
Tips for keeping cool... without a fridge
On some boats, refrigerator space is limited. Fortunately, vegetables such as carrots, onions and apples can be kept for several days without refrigeration. For more seasoned sailors, lacto-fermentation can be an interesting option for keeping vegetables fresh for longer.
Gourmet inspiration: treat yourself with simple ingredients
Even with basic provisions, it's possible to create delicious meals at sea. A mix of dried herbs and spices can easily enhance simple dishes. Combine lentils, rice or pasta with canned vegetables and freshly caught fish for a meal that's both balanced and tasty.
When cruising between Sicily and Sardinia, Olivier would often prepare a spicy lentil curry with coconut milk âeuros, a comforting and easy-to-make dish after a long day at sea. If you're lucky enough to fish, a simple grilled fish fillet with lemon and a drizzle of olive oil becomes a real feast. You could also try a tuna rice poêlée with fresh vegetables, or a quinoa salad with crunchy vegetables for a touch of freshness. If you have an oven on board, why not try a homemade pizza with pre-cooked dough, canned vegetables and melting cheese?
Cooking on board is not simply a matter of feeding the crew, but can become a privileged moment of sharing and pleasure. With a little planning and a few tricks adapted to life at sea, it's perfectly possible to reconcile taste and simplicity. Each sailor will find his or her own culinary habits to suit his or her tastes, experience and the specific constraints of his or her voyage.
"The sea teaches us patience and ingenuity... even in the kitchen."
Whether you're a fishing enthusiast or an expert in provisions management, the sea will always offer you opportunities to innovate, while maintaining a balance between gustatory pleasure and practicality.
