Water Maker, etc.

[Ray Chapman]

I returned in May from a three month cruise to the Bahamas and am planning toreturn next year. The cruise was great and we especially liked the Exumas. Beforereturning next year, I would like to add a water maker and wind generator to my Hunter 310.I have been searching for both and think I would like to add an SK water maker and Kiss wind generator. I would appreciate comments from anyone who has experiencewith either of these products or one you think is better.Since I am retired, cost is a factor.Ray Chapman

 

[Ed Schenck]

Problems?

How much of a problem was it Ray, not having those on this trip? I would like to think that I do NOT have to spend any more money!Is there not enough rain to catch your water? And can you occasionally tie up to shorepower or is that not affordable down there?

 

[Bob Haskell SV Blackmist]

Water and Electricity

Water pretty scarce down there,maybe a water maker is a good idea....heard some problems with them however in anything but clear seawater(no coral) etc....Electricity......how about solar......only way to go for about the same cost and installation is simple...you will need a good charge controller in either case...Good luck on your project....PS... money is no object!!!

 

[Ray Chapman]

More Information

I have a refigerator and use about 90 amp hours per day. I do have a high outpur alternator, but have to run the engin three hours per day to keep the batteries charged. Solar will not keep the batteries charged. During our, trip it only rained three days and we did catch the rain water. As to marinas, there are very few and none south of the Exumas. This is truly gunk holing, which is what makes it so appealing.