Welcome to this month's Galley Equipment Spotlight! I have to say, this might be my favourite one yet because it combines two things I absolutely love: vegetables and bags!
I’ve always thought of boats as tiny, floating homes—like little worlds at sea. And just like in any small living space, the trick is to think vertically. Hanging baskets are perfect for this because they let you store more without cluttering surfaces. On a boat, this is pure gold! I have macramé bags or string shopping bags that I have permanently swaying in the galley, which holds any root veggie that I will be using over the next few days, onions etc and another one with fruits in. If I am looking to store bananas or apples I try to keep them separately as they emit a gas which can spoil the other fruit quicker.
When we are on passage or even just day sailing, one of the biggest boat-life struggles is keeping things from rolling around. You’d think hanging a basket would cause more chaos, but the opposite is true! The gentle sway of the boat seems to cradle the veggies (or anything else you want to store in them) in the macramé string bag rather than bash them about like what happens when you store them in cupboards or bowls. It’s like a hammock for your carrots, gently swinging with the motion of the boat instead of being tossed around.
A Gentle Sway - Without the Bruises
Storing vegetables and fruit in hanging baskets isn’t some trendy new idea; it’s a tried-and-true method that’s been around for centuries. Why? Because it keeps your precious produce swaying with the motion of the boat, rather than rolling around and bruising. This helps extend how long you can enjoy fresh fruit and veggies while sailing. Now, I’m not saying it’ll magically keep your apples and mangoes from ripening in that warm tropical air—but by avoiding bruises, you’ll reduce spoilage and cut down on waste. And that’s a win when it comes to making the most of your provisions!
Space Savers Extraordinaire
Another reason I absolutely love using these string bags for my fruit and veggies is the space-saving possibilities they offer. They don’t add square footage to my boat, but they do make the most of vertical storage—think using the air for space! I simply tie them around the vertical posts in my cabin. Most boats have handholds dotted around, and they’re ideal for hanging string bags. No need to drill holes, which keeps my husband happy! It’s a brilliant, easy way to keep everything organised without cluttering the galley and taking up worktop space.
Keep your cool
Store your macramé or string bags in a cool, dry spot to keep your veggies happy and fresh. I often see people storing their fruit and vegetables outside which in theory is great depending on where you are. If your basket is in direct sunlight and heat it will however spoil the contents a lot quicker.
The Aesthetic Factor
String bags have definitely become a bit of a fashion sustainability statement, and I have to admit, they make me feel like a bit of a trendsetter! There’s just something about choosing them for storage that feels right. It’s not just about keeping things practical; it’s about making an eco-conscious choice that aligns with life on the water. And honestly, who knew sustainability could look this good when you’re heading ashore to the local market? Whether it’s keeping veggies fresh or treading lightly on the planet, these little bags are doing their part!
Aside from their practicality, string bags bring a touch of boho chic to the boat’s interior. There’s something about the simple, woven design that adds a cosy, earthy vibe to the galley and main cabin of a sailboat. Choosing a bold primary colour rather than the original natural look can bring a touch of colour to an otherwise teak-clad interior which can be a welcome change in such a small living space.
Sustainability and Mindfulness
If, like me, you are into arts and crafts and enjoy nothing more than getting creative after an early morning swim or paddleboard around the anchorage then I have added a video below of how to make your own string bag which is surprisingly easy. The advantage is that once you get the hang of it you can make one to fit the space you have and can even make it out of scraps of strings or line that you have onboard.
Plus, macramé is a bit nostalgic, don’t you think? It reminds me of the 70s, of plant hangers in cosy kitchens, and of slow, mindful living. That’s what I love about life on a boat—it forces you to slow down and pay attention to the little details. And I’m all about the details.
Check out this super easy YouTube tutorial to learn how to create your own string market bag that can also be used to store veggies onboard.
Don't forget:
Size Matters: Use different sizes for different veggies. Small bags for garlic, big ones for potatoes—get creative!
Easy Cleanup: If your bags get a bit dirty (because let’s face it, spills happen!), a gentle hand wash will do the trick.
Personal Touch: Feeling adventurous? Try dyeing your macramé bags with natural dyes to match your galley vibes!
(P.S. If you make your own macramé bags, we’d love to see your creations! Tag us on social media!)
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