On Tue, 19 Oct 2004 12:07:45 -0400, Wayne.B
wrote:

Skip, I think there will be times when you'd like to have that
generator and at least one A/C unit. It can get very toasty below
decks on a hot day,


Can't comment on this as only power boats have A/C in Toronto G, but
a lot of the cruising narratives I've read advocate judicious use of
12 v Hella fans, hatches, the "windcatchers" over hatches and sleeping
in the cockpit over A/C and the inevitable trouble it seems to cause.

By way of contrast, a lot of the Espar-type heating systems and
drip-type diesel heaters work well, and are popular to extend the
sailing seasons here and with liveaboards...yes, we have plenty in
Toronto. G

and having the generator also gives you a lot of
flexibility for meeting your power needs with other things, or for a
quick recharge when you need it.

There is a further option to carry a portable Honda or similar
generator in a deck box for the very few times when there is plenty of
cloud, dead air and no cord to the shore. Some folk even use them
camping to keep the beer cold in a Koolatron, although like A/C on
sailboats, others don't consider it "sporting".

The other benefit of a portable gas generator is that it shares a fuel
with the OB motor and that you can bring standard power tools to do
bigger jobs offshore without the inherent inefficiencies and worry of
going through a battery bank inverter.

A final note: Much of the cruising lifestyle involves barter and trade
in services. If you go to the REALLY small islands, many of them have
very limited electricity/fuel reserves. If you decide to spend an
afternoon doing light construction with power tools on an island in
return for food or labour, you will be very popular if you lug your
own generator onshore.

It's an option more available to the larger sailboat owner, but Skip
has established that already.

Anyway, FWIW.

R.