Fixing the Leaky Vacuum Toilet

Boat maintenance is a constant companion in the life of a sailor. One of the tasks we faced recently was fixing a leaky vacuum toilet. The sound of a leaking seal was not just annoying; it was a problem that needed addressing. The fix involved replacing the lower and upper, a task that required a bit of patience and precision.

After ordering a two-piece seal from Amazon, we were ready to tackle the task. The larger seal goes on the bottom, and the smaller one on top. The key to this repair was to ensure the seals were correctly placed and that the toilet was reassembled without disturbing them. It was a messy job, but once completed, the toilet held pressure, and we were back in business.

Cooking Comfort Food on a Chilly Night

After a day of boat maintenance, nothing beats a warm, hearty meal. On this particular night, we decided to whip up a staple dish that never fails to satisfy. The recipe was simple but packed with flavor: ground beef, onion, garlic, chicken bouillon, rice, and the secret ingredient—cream of mushroom soup for that rich gravy.

Cooking on a sailboat requires some creativity, especially when it comes to managing space and resources. We used our coffee maker to heat up our hot toddies, a perfect companion for the cold weather. The aroma of onions and garlic sizzling in the pan was enough to make anyone feel at home, even in the middle of the ocean.

The Art of Not Wasting

One of the lessons we’ve learned on our sailing journey is the importance of not wasting anything. We make it a point to use every bit of flavor from our ingredients. That means not draining the fat from the ground beef, as it adds richness and nutrients to the dish.

Back in the day, people used to save beef fat, known as tallow, for cooking and even skincare. It’s making a comeback as a natural moisturizer that can help reduce wrinkles. While we haven’t tried it yet, it’s something we’re curious about.

Embracing the Cozy Life

Boat life can be tight, especially when anchored close to other boats. But there’s a certain charm in the coziness, especially when you’re surrounded by boats. We even joked about getting too close to a neighboring boat and not wanting to “kiss” it.

Our evenings are filled with laughter, good food, and the occasional hot toddy to warm us up. It’s these moments that make the challenges of boat life worthwhile. Whether it’s fixing a leaky toilet or cooking a meal from scratch, each task brings its own sense of accomplishment.

Looking Ahead

We’re constantly learning and adapting to life on the water. Our sailing adventures are far from over, with plans to head to the Bahamas once the weather is favorable. Until then, we’ll continue to enjoy our time on the boat, making memories and sharing our experiences with fellow sailors.

For those interested in trying out our recipes or following our journey, check out our blog for more updates. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or someone dreaming of life at sea, there’s always something new to discover.

Final Thoughts

Boat life is not for everyone, but for those who embrace it, the rewards are endless. From the satisfaction of fixing something with your own hands to the joy of a homemade meal, it’s a lifestyle that offers both challenges and delights. So here’s to more adventures, both on and off the water. Happy sailing!Beef tallow