Aha!!! My nascent sailing experience aside, here is a topic I can actually discuss with the most knowledgeable and not be humbled!!!!!!!
Real coffee can only had out of an espresso maker (OK I'll accept Turkish coffee as well). The admiral and I are very picky about drinking our coffee and always travel with coffee beans, coffee grinder, something to heat the milk in, a "foamer" (there are different kinds) and of course, the espresso coffee pot (the espresso maker - no filtered coffee). What is referred to as "instant coffee"
does not exist in my universe.!!! If we know there may not be electriciy I grind a sufficient amount for the trip!
We do not need to talk (too much) about the different coffees available as this would require its own "Coffee - NET" .
Val, here is a espresso machine that will meet your needs:
http://www.amazon.com/Villaware-V003...218026&sr=8-15
I prefer stainless to the aluminium of the Bialetti only because I've this thing about using any aluminium cookware. (although, just like with any aluminium cookware, it will heat faster). Its referred to as a 10 cup, but it makes two really great mugs of cappuccino. All you need to add is the appropriate coffee (notice they also suggest two brands of Italian coffee; Illy and Lavazza. You can't go wrong with those two brands. As a proper Canadian you can also head to Costco and get the William Spartivento brand: Organic and fair trade
. The Espresso Barista (very dark bean) is a great solid morning coffee and the Ethiopian Yirgacheffe is just right for evenings (a little milder).
Below is just some of the essential stuff I brought to Guyana. Notice the espresso machine in front. Similar to the one on Amazon. We've had it since 1988 (bought in Rome). Its been to Ghana (all over), camping, the US several times, Guyana, Brazil, (the boat of course but now it has its own). It's also a "10 cup" but it makes two great mugs. I also use it for simple espresso for larger groups:
I've used it on electric stoves, gas stoves and, when on the road or camping, I've used it like this (just not on the dining room table)
:
One last thing: These espresso machines do not take long to make the coffee. So energy useage is minimised. Also, always use as pure/clean water as you can (We use mineral water) and use cold water.
That's my coffee bean worth....I think I'll go make myself a cup