if so, what do you do to maintain the proper Humidity levels to ensure that it does not swell/shrink and have major issues?
I use D'Add EXP and they are awesome! It is the only string I will keep on my guitar permanently (though I use your cheaper D'adds when I break one). I have also noticed that they last longer from corrosion. For example, I broke an E a while back and the spares were all the non-coated D'adds. I played with that for a while but noticed within a few weeks the corrosion on the string where I pick. That string is now off and replaced with another EXP.Hi, I'm a member here, but my day job is in the music industry.
I work for a company that makes these... Among many other products. Not trying to advertise, but to help out.
Amazon.com: Planet Waves Humidipak Automatic Humidity Control System (For Guitar): Musical Instruments
Normally, you'll have to worry about humid conditions. It's best to keep your instrument in a case when you're not playing it, and try to control the environment in the case.
Humidipak will regulate in either direction. However, in dry conditions also use another moisture adding device like a Guitar Humidifier so the pak doesn't dry out.
If its really wet conditions, (above 70% day after day) use a "dried out" humidipak in your case which will absorb moisture.
Again, keeping the guitar in a case when not in use will really help. Also, go to your local shop and learn how to make a truss rod adjustment because the neck will move. It's perfectly normal, I adjust many of my instruments every year to get the action right. It's routine and if you can do basic boat maintenance you can do basic guitar maintenance. Wood moves with trends in humidity...
Finally, consider coated strings to minimize corrosion. This is vital on a boat. My company makes the EXP line of strings but there are others out there as well like Elixir.
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask. I know Cruisingdad has a guitar on board, perhaps he wants to share his experience.
Good luck, keep playing...!!!
Craig
D'Addario and Co.