Dessalator watermakers turn seawater into fresh, potable water on demand, giving bluewater cruisers a reliable freshwater supply on long ocean passages without relying on port stops. Built around energy-efficient reverse osmosis and designed for the harsh marine environment, Dessalator systems are trusted by offshore sailors for their durability, quiet operation, and low power draw.
Dessalator watermaker range at a glance
| Series | Typical use | Power option |
|---|---|---|
| D60 Cruise Navigator | Mid-size cruising yachts | AC (120V / 230V) |
| D60 Duo Navigator | Cruisers wanting AC and DC flexibility | AC/DC dual voltage |
| D90 Pro / Pro-Auto | Larger yachts and liveaboards | AC (230V) |
| D100 Duo Navigator | High-demand crews and big boats | AC/DC dual voltage |
What is a Dessalator watermaker?
A Dessalator watermaker is a marine desalination system that forces seawater through a semi-permeable reverse-osmosis membrane at high pressure, separating salt and impurities to produce clean drinking water. Because it makes water on demand, it removes the need to carry or ration large volumes of stored fresh water on extended passages.
Dessalator systems are engineered for high output with low energy consumption, which makes them well suited to energy-conscious cruisers who need to balance watermaking against battery and charging capacity.
How does a Dessalator watermaker work on board?
Seawater is drawn in, pre-filtered, then pressurized and pushed through the RO membrane; the fresh permeate flows to your tanks while the concentrated brine is discharged overboard. Many Dessalator models include automatic flushing systems that rinse the membrane with fresh water after use, reducing fouling and maintenance between runs.
The systems are built compact and run quietly, so they can be installed in the confined spaces of a cruising boat without dominating the engine room or disturbing the crew.
Which Dessalator model should I choose?
Match the model to your boat size, crew, and power system. The D60 Cruise Navigator suits mid-size yachts running on AC, while the D60 and D100 Duo Navigator models add DC capability for cruisers who want to make water underway without a generator. Larger yachts and full-time liveaboards often step up to the D90 Pro or Pro-Auto for higher daily output.
Voltage matters too: choose the 120V versions for North American AC systems and the 230V versions for European and many international setups.
How do I maintain a Dessalator watermaker?
Routine care centers on filtration and membrane hygiene: keep pre-filters clean, run the automatic fresh-water flush after use, and sterilize the membrane when the system will sit unused for extended periods. Dessalator offers sterilizing dose cartridges and a reusable sterilization cartridge to protect the membrane during layup and preserve water quality.
Frequently asked questions
Why do bluewater cruisers need a watermaker?
Long ocean passages mean you cannot rely on port stops to refill your tanks. A watermaker converts seawater into safe drinking water on demand, giving you independence and comfort for extended time at sea.
Are Dessalator watermakers energy efficient?
Yes. Dessalator's reverse-osmosis technology is designed for high output with low energy consumption, which is important for cruisers balancing watermaking against limited battery and charging capacity.
What is the difference between a Cruise and a Duo model?
Cruise models run on AC power, while Duo models are dual-voltage and can operate on both AC and DC. Duo is the choice if you want to make water underway without running a generator.
Should I choose a 120V or 230V Dessalator?
Choose 120V for North American AC electrical systems and 230V for European and many other international systems. Match the watermaker's voltage to your boat's onboard power.
How do I protect the membrane during long layups?
Sterilize the membrane before extended periods of disuse. Dessalator supplies sterilizing dose cartridges and a reusable sterilization cartridge for this purpose.
Is a watermaker worth it for offshore sailing?
For serious bluewater cruising it is often considered essential rather than a luxury, allowing longer stays in remote anchorages and worry-free ocean passages without water rationing.