Important equipment

As cruiser's we all have our own definition of essential equipment on our boats. Then there's important equipment, and then how to live more comfortably equipment. Sometimes the latter two are synonymous.  

Take for instance on Iemanja, we think a water-maker is important. No running in to a harbor driven by a need to refill water tanks. And we get showers every day that consume more than a quart of water. To us , it's important, and it makes live-a-board life more comfortable.

Here's our list of important and comfortable equipment; not in order of priority:

•Water-maker. Keeps you away from marinas longer. 

•Power windlass.

•Alternative energy-- solar or wind.

•LED lighting.

•Trustworthy dinghy and motor.

•Fresh and salt water at a sink. 

•Seltzer maker. 

•Propane galley stove.

•At least one power winch is really nice:         it's utility is clear in stormy weather or if anyone is upper body injured. And just plain nice on an everyday basis.

•Enough main engine horsepower to make 6 knots at cruising speed so that you'll have enough HP to get away from danger in strong current.

•Double reef capability, or more.

•Roller furler jib.

•Fridge and freezer.

•SSB, AIS, VHF.

•Radar and nav software in cockpit ( can be chart plotter, or iPhone, or iPad).

•An inverter.

•Heater. 

•Autopilot.

•Cabin fans. 

•Deck/anchor wash (sea water).

•Safety equipment, like MOB.

•Shower( in or/and out, or sun-shower).

•A well working head.

•Sun and wind protection - including  dodgers, biminis, or awnings, or sun curtains made of shade landscape fabric.

•Dual water/fuel filters like raycor to change from one filter to the other on the fly. Sweet.

•Cockpit table for meals.

•Kedge anchor. Also for putting bow up in a swell.

•Rocna primary anchor or spade. Sleep peacefully.

•Hatch screens

•Fly swatter - horseflies on the ICW are nasty.

Is all this essential? Well, no. Does it make life more comfortable. More fun? And safer? A very big yes.