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I have a friend with a sailboat who uses it for entertaining. While he provides beer, water and soft drinks, he always expects his guest to bring the food and wine, which we have done many times. Another couple and I have had him over to our homes for dinner to reciprocate. We are wondering, would it not be polite for him to ask us out on the boat occasionally and not expect us to bring the food, especially since we have him over to our homes and don’t ask him to bring dinner?  Alex, Newport

–Alex, Newport

Not all sailors are good cooks. Have you ever cooked for friends on a sailboat? Cooking in a tiny galley is not easy. Your sailor friend probably thinks it is a thrill for his mates to come aboard for drinks and a sunset sail, but not being a foodie himself, he asks guests to bring food and wine in return. Next time ask your sailor friend for dinner, suggest he bring a couple of bottles of wine or two six packs. Be specific: a six-pack or Newport Storm and a six pack of Guiness; or a bottle of Chardonnay and a Cabernet Sauvignon.

~Didi