Electricity and Freshwater on Board

[Mark Matthews]

While cruising, what systems do you use to maintain your electrical and freshwater supply and not be dependent on marinas?

Bob Shelton

Mark Matthews responds:

Electrically, solar panels and/or a wind generator are the preferred methods of keeping the batteries topped off. Some boats have an onboard diesel generator to charge batteries, while most use their main engine’s alternator to keep things in check.

Water is another issue. There are water makers, but they prefer saltwater input without oil, marine growth, silt, and all the other things one may find closer to shore. Our best bet was with jerry jugs filled at marinas before departure—they'll let you fill up for free, though carrying the jugs can be quite a chore, unless you can just pull up alongside the dock.