How Do People on Ships Get Their Meals? The Secrets of Ship Kitchens and Catering

Have you ever wondered how people living on ships manage to get their meals? Don’t think that they go ashore every time they need to eat, as it would be an impractical and inefficient solution.

Let’s explore the reality behind ship catering and kitchens. From commercial ships to naval vessels, there are specialized cooking facilities and dedicated staff to ensure that meals are served on time and to an acceptable standard.

Ship Kitchens and Catering Staff

Most modern ships, whether commercial or naval, have a dedicated area called the galley. This is the equivalent of a kitchen, where meals are prepared for the crew and sometimes for guests on cruise ships.
Some ships are equipped with refrigerators, freezers, and other necessary appliances to store food and maintain its freshness. The crew designate one or more individuals as cooks, depending on the size of the vessel and the number of personnel aboard.

Different types of vessels may vary in terms of their catering staff. Smaller ships might have one able body (AB) who doubles as the cook, while larger ships would have a complete catering staff consisting of a chef, sous chef, and other food service workers like stewards. This setup allows for more efficient and varied meal preparation.

Regular Meal Times

Mealtimes on ships are generally similar to land-based meal schedules. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served at fixed times. This regularity helps maintain a routine for the crew and ensures that everyone eats at the same time, promoting social cohesion and efficiency.

For example, the Azure Voyager, a commercial cargo ship, serves breakfast at 7:00 AM, lunch at 1:00 PM, and dinner at 7:00 PM. These times may vary depending on the specific needs and operations of the ship, but they provide a consistent framework for meal preparation and service.

Challenges of Catering at Sea

It is indeed convenient and efficient to serve meals without having to go ashore, especially for ships that cross vast oceans or operate in remote areas. The Atlantic crossing, for instance, can take several days at a speed of 16 knots. Stopping to go ashore every meal time would be both logistically difficult and impractical.

Furthermore, the crew often consists of individuals who have long-term contracts and are stationed on the ship for extended periods. Ensuring that they have access to quality meals is crucial for their health, well-being, and performance during their voyages.

Quality of Ship Cuisine

Many people might be surprised to learn that the food served on ships is often of high quality and prepared using modern culinary techniques. You can watch YouTube videos showing ship kitchens and the people who prepare the meals. These videos often showcase the talent and creativity of the ship’s cooks and the variety of dishes served, sometimes even surpassing the quality of food served in onshore restaurants.

For example, The Oceans Dinner Series, produced by a popular food channel, has featured videos of ships serving gourmet meals. These culinary offerings are not limited to simple provisions; they can include complex dishes that require specialized skills and attention to detail.

Conclusion

In summary, the logistics and catering on ships are designed to ensure that the crew and passengers have access to timely, nutritious, and quality meals. The galley, kitchen, and catering staff play crucial roles in maintaining the health and well-being of the people on board. So, the next time you wonder how people living on ships get their meals, you can rest assured that they have efficient and well-organized systems in place.