Here’s why you should catch rainwater on your cruising boat, even if you have a watermaker. And a few tips to tell you how to do it.
Summary
So why should you catch rainwater on the boat? Is it worth it even if you have easy access to water in your cruising locale? We think so.
In the Marquesas, where we’re currently cruising, we find taps providing water in every settlement’s port. It’s not always potable. But it’s suitable for showers and laundry. We also have a small watermaker onboard.
Even so, we still gather rainwater aboard Calypso. A heavy rainfall fills our collapsible water jugs in 20 minutes with a little effort and no electricity.
Our watermaker uses 10 amp hours of electricity to produce three gallons. That’s electric that we could use for making bread, accessing the internet, or other luxuries.
Collecting water also means we don’t have to be stingy with washing laundry. And can take longer showers. Every day.
Calypso’s awning was designed to collect water with quick-connect fittings that we direct to a bucket. Even without an awning, you can collect water running off your bimini. Or collect it directly from the sky.
For more details, listen to the full podcast. Or check out Water Catching FTW for pictures of our setup.
Links::
Collapsible Water Jugs (Amazon)
Siphon Tube (Amazon)
Today’s episode of The Boat Galley Podcast is sponsored by Lunatec, makers of the hydration spray bottle, odor-free dishcloth and self-cleaning washcloth. Lunatec offers practical gear designed to save water and reduce waste. A water bottle that doubles as a garden hose? A dish cloth that doesn’t get stinky? Yes, please! Visit Lunatecgear.com to learn more; use code boatgalley to save 10% on everything. Lunatec: innovative gear for your outdoor adventures.
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Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig
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