The Galley Refit: Upgrading Sinks, Faucets, and Cold Storage

The galley is the heart of the boat, but it is often the most neglected. If you are still using the original yellowed plastic sink or a faucet that drips every time the pump cycles, it is time for a refit.

Updating your galley hardware doesn't just look better; it increases the resale value of your vessel. Here is how to modernize your prep area, from the drain to the ice chest.

1. The Sink: Ditch the Plastic for Stainless

In a marine environment, plastic stains and scratches. The industry standard for a modern refit is Polished Stainless Steel.

  • Durability: 304-grade stainless steel resists corrosion and is easy to sanitize after cleaning fish or prepping dinner.
  • The Shape Matters: On a boat, counter space is gold.
    • Round Sinks: Ideal for tight corners or small heads.
    • Deep Rectangular Sinks: Essential for the galley if you plan on washing actual pots and pans.

Browse Stainless Steel Marine Sinks

2. The Faucet: Folders and Pull-Outs

Household faucets often don't work on boats because they are too tall (hitting cabinets) or don't have the right flow rate for 12V pumps.

The "Combo" Solution

For boats with small heads (bathrooms), the most popular upgrade is a Combination Shower/Mixer Faucet. These units serve as a sink faucet, but the head pulls out on a hose to double as a shower wand. It saves installing a separate plumbing line.

The "Folder"

If your sink is under a countertop lid or near a window, look for a Folding Galley Faucet (like those from Scandvik or Ambassador) that tucks away completely flush when not in use.

Shop Marine Galley & Shower Faucets

3. Cold Storage: The "Cooler Seat" Strategy

On center consoles and skiffs, you don't have space for a dedicated fridge and a bench seat. You need a unit that does both. This is where the Yeti Tundra 75 dominates.

The Tundra 75 is specifically sized to fit perfectly in front of many center console units. By adding a cushion to the lid, you turn your ice chest into a high-durability Boat Cooler Seat.

  • Ice Retention: Keeps ice for days, not hours—critical for long weekends.
  • Bear-Proof Durability: If it can handle a grizzly, it can handle your crew jumping on it.

Shop Yeti Tundra 75 & Marine Coolers


Summary: The Upgrade Checklist

Ready to modernize? Make sure you measure your "cut-out" dimensions before ordering.

  1. The Basin: Stainless Steel Round or Oval Sink
  2. The Water: Pull-out Shower Faucet
  3. The Ice: Marine Cooler with Cushion

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