Traveling by boat is one of the most pleasurable ways to reach a destination for fishing, waterskiing, swimming or simply anchoring up. If you want a relaxing trip, it is important to ensure you have plenty supplies on board to provide you with sufficient energy to enjoy you day out on the water to the full.
Healthy, tasty and hydrating
Hydrating with food
Out on the water you are exposed to the elements – wind, sun and salt. These natural stressors make you tire more rapidly, regardless of your age or level of fitness. Most of the water you need has to come from drinking it. Remember – If you are travelling two nautical miles or more from shore you must carry two litres of water for every person on board.
You know you can also hydrate with food.
Think high water content fruit and vegetables such as:
- Watermelon and strawberries (contain roughly 92% water water per volume)
- Grapefruit with 91%, melons with 90% and peaches with 88% water.
- Pineapple, cranberries, orange and raspberries 87% water by weight.
- Apricots hold 86 percent water, while blueberries and plums contain 85% water.
- Apples and pears contain 84%.
- Cherries and grapes contain an average of 81% water.
- A banana’s composition includes 74% water.
- Top of the vegetables list are cucumber and lettuce, consisting of 96% water.
- Zucchini, radish and celery are comprised of 95% water.
- 94% of tomato’s weight is water, and green cabbage is 93% water.
- Vegetables which contain 92% water include cauliflower, eggplant, red cabbage, peppers and spinach.
- Broccoli is 91% water by weight.
- Carrots contain 87% water. Green peas and white potatoes contain 79% water.
Good food to have aboard
Fresh salads are always enjoyable aboard. During summer months it would be a shame not to make a stop on your way and grab the juiciest and tastiest fresh vegetables from a market located near the boat ramp. Mix tomatoes, carrots, cucumber, and onion will ensure your necessary intake of vitamins for the rest of the day. This is exactly what you need when you spend hours out in the hot sun and wind. These foods contain high quantities of water. Add cheese, nuts and sprinkling of fresh or dried herbs to make your salad tastier. During the colder winter months think thermoses of soup. Try a warm potatoe salad enhanced with onions, celery, capers, herbs, chopped hard boiled eggs, homemade mayonnaise and crispy bacon. This salad will make your day.
Eggs
Eggs are rich in protein. They will boost energy levels and keep you in the right mood for your trip. Other essential nutrients in eggs are Vitamins B12, A, E and D, phosphorus, zinc, calcium, and selenium. All these elements are essential for overall health. Bring wraps full of scambled eggs, chives, smoked salmon or crispy bacon.
Tuna or salmon
Fish is an important source of Omega-3 which helps to protect the heart, brain and keep skin and hair looking healthy. Tuna is a rich source of omega-3, good proteins, and Vitamin D. It makes a light and tasty meal or snack for crew. Open a can and spread on toast or crackers. Add sliced tomatoes, salt and pepper and a sprinkling of dried and/or fresh oregano or basil to complement this nutritious food.
Fruits
Just like vegetables, fresh fruits are great to help reduce the effects of dehydration and provide a high intake of vitamins. The best choice are fresh seasonal fruits you can pick up from local producers on your way to the marina. Those containing high quantities of water are recommended.
Home-made sandwiches
There’s nothing better than the classical sandwich. Sandwiches will help you feel energetic especially if you spread them with a little butter and your favourite chutney, line with lettuce and mix them with ingredients like meat, cheese, salami, smoked chicken, turkey, or fish with vegetables.
Quick snacks and sweet treats
If you can carry a esky or portable refrigerator aboard it’s useful to pack olives, pickles, cheese and salami. Just slice and put them on a large plate for everyone to enjoy with crackers or fresh bread. Whip up a big batch chocolate brownies, pack into eco-friendly biodegradable zip sealing bags and enjoy!