Having a BBQ on board a vessel makes cooking a joy especially when you have a set-up that is not only convenient and efficient, but also provides you with excellent meals when anchored in a secluded anchorage.
We have opted for a Weber BabyQ over the conventional stainless steel BBQs traditionally offered for the boating fraternity.
Not only does the Weber BabyQ outperform any of the significantly more expensive stainless steel options (approx 1/3 of the cost), it provides us with great flexibility on where on board we do use our BBQ. For example, when we are in a protected bay, we simply put it on the bathing platform (see picture), or on the back railing. On a rainy day we position it in the middle of the cockpit table. Many of our sailing friends have now too changed to a Weber BabyQ on their boats for all the above mentioned convenience and performance.

When it comes to the safety and the protection of your boat and occupants, a proper gas detection system is a critical device where LPG gas is being stored or used. You need a gas detector that you can depend on to watch over you and your boat while on or off board.

On Cool Change we have recently installed a BEP Contour Matrix Gas Detector.  This gas detector has the capability to control two sensors which detect both LPG and petrol, with visual and audible alarms. It also has a test switch to check the operation of the sensors.
 
While location of sensors will depend very much on the particulars of each vessel, on Cool Change we have one sensor installed right behind the gas oven and another one at a lower level below the entry of the gas line from the sealed gas locker and the internal turn-off valve.

The control panel is installed in the galley and in clear view when sitting down in the saloon.

Additionally it pays to do following from time to time:
1. Check connections for leaks at the appliance, regulator and cylinder with soapy water.
2. Never use a match or flame when checking for leaks.
3. Close cylinder valve when appliances are not in use or when the gas cylinder is being filled.
4. Never leave an appliance with a continuous burning flame operating in any petrol driven vessel if unattended for a period of 12 hours or more.
5. Use the cooking appliance or stove only for the purpose for which it was designed f – cooking, eg not as a room heater.
6. In the event of fire, immediately close cylinder valve(s).
7. Check the gas detector, to determine if flammable vapours are present and the vessel cleared of any flammable vapour before lighting any LP gas appliance or starting the motor.
8. All spare gas cylinders, whether full or empty are fitted with gas tight sealing plugs and all cylinder valves closed.
9. E licensed gas fitter does perform all additions or alterations to your boats LP gas system.
10. In the event of an accidental gas leak, close the cylinder valve and ventilate the vessel until the air is clear.