My wife uses plastic bins arranged "just so", in order to be able to get at things efficiently.
That said, I still hear some grumbling now and then... ;)

I think that this is one of those things that many of us would like to see better addressed.

The newer boats have gone to front-loading fridges; which allow better access, but causes more loss of cold-ness. (if that's a word!)

Our dry storage bin has a series of pieces of wood screwed into the sides which form rails, and we have plastic tubs that fit on the rails. There's 3 layers of them in there, with 3 tubs on the bottom and centre and 2 on the top. That way you can slide stuff around and lift tubs in and out to get to what you need.

Our fridge is split about 60/40 fridge/freezer and on the fridge side we use wire racks to add another layer of storage. There is also a plastic bin in there that small items go in so it can be lifted out in one shot instead of having to pick out a bunch of things.

However, my Admiral still finds the fridge/freezer a difficult layout to work with, she'd certainly welcome other ideas on this (other than buying a 400, Tom). (I was ordered to add that!)

I posted my mods to the storage bins here [url]http://www.c36ia.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1932[/url]

I wanted to be able to get all of the cans and smaller items up above the other stuff. I'll probably add a 2nd bin on the right. I'd meant to take measurements but didn't get to it before winter storage.

[quote=obrown;16183]Is it possible to send me a picture of your dry storage? I think I get the idea, very innovative. I like it.[/quote]

Sorry, don't have any pictures of it but if you look at what Gary did in the thread he posted that's the idea. Except ours has 3 layers of rails and everything is in the tubs.

I think I might have to consider that multiple rows approach myself; sounds like a good idea, Bud. Did you use the same depth containers on each layer?

[quote=plaineolde;16186]I think I might have to consider that multiple rows approach myself; sounds like a good idea, Bud. Did you use the same depth containers on each layer?[/quote]

Yes we did Gary. The bottom row actually sits on the bottom of the bin so there is only 2 sets of rails. We also don't put a bin in the center of the top row so any taller stuff goes into the center bin in the middle layer. Also any heavy stuff goes into the bottom layer to minimize the amount of weight on the rails.

Owen, please click on UserCP (upper left hand corner of the page) and set up an automated signature. Use my signature below as a model for the type of information to put in your signature. We don't know if your boat is a Mk I or a Mk II, and some of our answers will depend on knowing that. An automated signature will help us to help you. Thanks.

Any and all ideas for organizing things on a boat are great. I wonder if we will ever break that magic barrier where (on average) you have to move three things in order to get the one you want. :)

Hi Owen. When my then GF and I lived aboard my last Cat 36, I built a set of dock steps with a hinged top. Secreted within was a Norcold freezer. It was so great being able to grocery shop like "normal people" and stock up on frozen items like meats, veggies and ice cream. Having a dedicated freezer allowed us to use the entire frig area as a refrigerator. Have fun, the 36 is a great liveaboard.

Mike