Grills: gas/propane vs. charcoal?

[redcobra]

I NEVER use a Charcoal grill when tied up at a marina (or any grill for that matter). Only at anchor. I think using Charcoal when you are near a wooden structure, other boats, or not at anchor facing into the wind is foolhardy.

[speciald]

I've plumbed my propane grill to my main propane tank removing the need for those small cans and the danger of storing them. It required a T-valve and some high pressure hose, all readily available. Unfortunately all these parts coast as much or mote than the grill.

[JungleJim]

I prefer propane over charcoal due to ease of use and elimination of flying sparks. Using charcoal grills 40+ times in the Caribbean a rogue charcoal ember (Oh yeah, nautical term - look it up!) frequently lands on the swim platform and leaves a gelcoat crater the next morning. After years of Force 10 (worked great) I'm planning to move to the larger Magna grill and small green bottles on the next round. Another owner has this set up and swears by it, says he gets 10 grillings per bottle.

As to the propane grill blowing out, one solution I found that worked for me in higher winds was to use the BBQ spatula to prop open the cover just a bit. This seemed to balance the draft enough to eliminate blow out - takes a little tweaking to make it work.

[TAK]

I have a Magma party that I am learning to like. Wind is not a problem - I like that I can adjust the heat and I tend to be a bit lazy when it comes to clean up so most foods are fish / things wrapped in foil and the like.. Pork loins are perfect .. That is actually is better for me anyway..

My first boat 20 years ago came with a Weber Marine grill that had a clamp for a stanchion.. I really like it though but lighting damp charcoal is no fun and I hated the clean up. And yes I tossed the under grate the first time out.. I dont know if Weber still makes a Marine version of the smokey joe..

Hmm.. in twenty years I went from burgers and beer to Salmon on a cedar plank and a crisp cold pinot grigio.. I guess I am getting old.

BTW... I think most marinas ban all kinds of grills in use while in port..

[Stillraining]

Just remember one thing ...you can turn off gas you cant turn off Becket's.