We do somethimes cook while underway. A set of potholder rails came with our boat (C-Dory 25 with a Wallas stove), but in 7 years and thousands of miles, we have never had the need for them. We were sailors previously, too. You also don't need a gimballed stove in your Ranger Tug - if you spend time heeled with these boats, you have trouble WAY beyond cooking! :lol:
I had to ask my wife if our boat came with the potholder rails before typing this reply; her answer: "If the conditions are so lumpy that I'd have to use potholders, I won't be cooking!"
You will find that things are different as you make the transition from sailing to power cruising. Many of us appreciate those differences.
A year or so ago, I came across an interesting motorsailor in a marina. It was in need of some sprucing up, but could have been bought at a good price. I suggested to my wife that we "Go take a look... you know, just to see." She begrudgingly agreed. This was a unique "over the horizon" boat that could take you anywhere. I could see the potential. My wife looked at the teak decks that needed to be refinished, pointed out the faded sail covers and the fact the sails would likely need to be replaced... she said, "Sailing... I don't want to work that hard anymore. You can do that with your next wife."
So, there are options. 😎
Sailing is still fun for me - on OPB (other peoples' boats). But once you spend time on your new boat... that goes in the desired course... upright... with that glorious protected helm... and good visibility from anywhere in the cabin... well, you really start to appreciate the differences. You can forget about the old phrase, "Gentlemen don't sail to windward."
And, cooking onboard is a different experience, too. 😉
Congrats on the new boat!
Jim B.
