We, humans, are used to live in small spaces, even though most of us inhabit big cities. Some of us have reasonably preferred the option of living offshore and have made huge progress in small-space living. Nowadays, sailboats and houseboats tend to be efficiently designed in order to provide as much space as possible. However, sometimes we deal with difficulties that raise some questions like, where I’m going to put all these stuff? or how can I organize everything in here? So, here’s the list with efficient tips for storage in your sailboat that’s going to put at ease your concerns about space handling.

Make a Good Use of Space

Organization and tidiness can be the key to make good use of space in your sailboat. It might take a while to train yourselves in order to keep tidy when living on a boat, especially if you’re not a “tidy” person. First things first, remember to make the most of a few square feet. But, what do I mean by that? For example, put in the galley’s lockers all kitchen utensils, and in the cabin/s store the must-have bedroom items. These include sheets, pillows, clothes, accessories, and personal items. Keep in mind that you should only carry must-have items and always try not to overload your boat.

This is because some of your extra necessities can take all the space and thus leaving little room for something more important. Some of the must-have items are tool kits, food, water, extra sails, spare parts, First-Aid supplies, foul weather gear, and safety equipment. On the other hand, some of your extra necessities might be too many personal items, clothes/shoes, decorations, and accessories, among others.

Cleverly Store the Kitchen Utensils

It’s a fact that not all of the sailboat’s galleys have enough space for cabinets. So, a good idea is to find a practical storage cabinet/pantry and shelves that can be mounted to the wall of your sailboat. In addition, don’t forget to buy small containers in order to place staple food or herbs/spices inside. Also, a good example is a wooden storage cabinet where you can place dishes, cups, towel racks, jars, and spices. Like this, you can keep your belongings in a secure place and save some space in the kitchen. There are many practical designs in the market that solve storage issues that are specifically designed for sailing boats. Finally, don’t take ceramic or glass utensils in your sailboat in order to avoid damages.

Use Canvas Bags, Fabric Bins and Pockets

Bags have so many uses and can help you keep everything organized in your closet or in drawers. Canvas bags in multiple sizes can also maximize the space because they’re easy to store items and manage space. Moreover, fabric bins and canvas bags can contain everything inside from personal items, electronic devices, and clothes to shoes, cutlery, etc. In addition, boat storage bins keep your shelves organized and prevent small items from being thrown around while sailing. So, they’re much more practical than plastic crates and boxes. You can also use them in the galley or fridge to store food, cutlery, and utensils. As a matter of fact, they’re also much easier to wash in case food gets spilled upon.

Pockets and hammocks are also really useful. You can hang them somewhere and place pairs of socks, gloves, sunglasses, and other fabric items. You can also use vacuum seal bags for towels, bedding items, clothes, and shoes. In case you don’t remember what’s in the bag, then try putting a list on the front of each bag and write down what’s inside.

>>Also Read: Best Waterproof Backpacks and Dry Bags for Sailing

Create some Extra Space in your Sailboat

In order to create some extra space in your sailboat, there are a few tips that can be of great use. For example, you can use hooks to hang all kinds of things like towels, clothes, etc. Like this, your stuff will be easy to grab and stowed nicely. In addition, you can add some shelves to the walls if you have a serious space problem. But remember that the screws will probably damage the walls. Another practical tip is to group similar items together in specific spaces within the boat in order to save some extra space. But be careful not to end up having similar items stashed all over the place. Don’t forget that you have to equally distribute the weight within your sailboat. Finally, organize the areas in the sailboat and put the things that you use daily in an easy-access area.

Some Extra Practical Storage Tips & Ideas

• Make use of in-stair drawers if you have any.
• Use as much as possible the rack/s over the cabinet. They’re quite practical because you can keep all toiletries, shower products, etc.
• Put your shoes or flip-flops on a hook. You can use hooks, place a hanging fabric shelf, and hang them on any rod.  
• Cargo nets can be of great use to store heavy items and equipment. They’re indeed ideal and stretchy tools that can compress many items like blankets, duvets, pillows, etc. Store your stuff inside and then place them below the ceiling or under your bed.
• Use silicone for kitchen items such as colanders, bowls, cups, and others. These items are collapsible and can be useful space savers for your galley.
• Bamboo drawer dividers can be a solution if your stuff is chaotically placed in the drawers and cupboard shelves. You can also use them for your kitchen’s drawers to separate forks, knives, spoons, etc.
• Keep a sewing kit with you as well as tapes for sail repair and of course, a sail repair kit. These items are considered must-haves and you should definitely keep them carefully stored and within an easy-access area. Check out this article about the essential items that you should have on board.
• Use Tupperware and mesh storage bags to store food, jars, and other cooking ingredients or food products.
• Always try to reduce plastic and prefer to buy combustible bags.
• If it’s hard for you to organize everything, which is absolutely logical, try to create an inventory. Write down where you keep the items and make separate lists. For example, one for the galley, one for the bathroom, one for safety equipment and gear. Like this, you’ll keep your mind at ease and won’t get lost while searching for something.

Summary

As previously mentioned, the fact of living on a sailboat and being organized go together. If you love sailing and living in the sea then it will be relatively easy for you to get accustomed and learn how to maximize every inch of storage in the sailboat. It’s important to bring along the must-have items, basic tools, and provisions. And then if there’s still some space you can carry some extra items. Moreover, think about the things that you’ll mostly use and then decide which ones to take onboard. Don’t forget that no matter the size of a sailboat its space will be limited. However, you can always create some space and stowage options keeping in mind the above-mentioned tips and ideas.

Some of the most basic examples can be canvas bags, hammocks & pockets, extra racks, bedside containers, mash bags, and hooks, among others. So, let your imagination free, take some ideas from this article, and set sail without worrying about space and storage.