During a nine-day passage from Australia to New Zealand, the team from Multihull Central, put a Seawind 1170 catamaran and its onboard systems to the test in genuine offshore conditions. Among the equipment that proved its value throughout the crossing was their Rainman Modular Watermaker, which delivered consistent freshwater production despite the demanding offshore conditions.
The crew explained that water independence was a major priority for the crossing, as they wanted to avoid carrying excessive tankage and maintain normal usage without rationing. Their Modular Installed Rainman with the manual control panel and autoflush option allowed them to make water daily while underway in challenging conditions. Despite the constant motion, the unit ran smoothly and consistently, giving the crew confidence that they could rely on it throughout the passage.
The modular installation on the Seawind 1170 was designed for easy access and straightforward operation. All components were neatly arranged within the technical spaces, allowing the crew to operate the watermaker directly from the manual control panel. They noted that the layout kept the system protected while making daily operation simple and maintenance access convenient.
Power management was another important factor during the crossing. The Rainman’s modest power draw paired well with the boat’s lithium battery bank and solar array, allowing the crew to run the watermaker without placing excessive strain on their energy reserves. This balance between efficiency and output meant they could comfortably produce the required water each day while maintaining healthy battery levels.
This passage served as a strong demonstration of the Rainman Modular Watermaker’s durability and efficiency in real life bluewater conditions. For sailors preparing for extended offshore cruising, the experience of the Seawind 1170 crew highlights the value of a dependable, low maintenance watermaker that performs when it matters most.