Portable Generator

[madhatter66]

Hello all
Looking into the Honda or similar brands for occasional overnight anchorage. Is it ok to place on deck? ..or best on flybridge or bow? Original onboard genny was removed years ago. And are they quiet when under load? Considering either a 2000 or 3000watt. Thx

 

[SeaEric]

I own a 2000w Honda for a decade. Nice unit. It idles down when no power is called for. Not sure about using it aboard when you're sleeping. CO is a killer.

 

[jim rosenthal]

It's risky. You would definitely want functioning CO alarms through your boat and even then it's risky. There really isn't anywhere you can put it that doesn't pose a hazard to you. I won't go to sleep on my boat with the generator running, and it's a factory-approved installation.

 

[Pascal]

Indeed watch for CO making sure it can't come in thru a hatch. Stern is best so breeze takes it away from the boat

They are quiet with a light load but once loaded up they are pretty loud, in an obnoxious buzzing way. Think honda civic with trash can exhaust kind of noise. louder than a marine generator at say 200'

 

[workingonadream]

my friend has the Honda 2000 and loves it. depending what you plan to power will determine what size you need. if you don't have enough power you will have stagger what you use. most people that I have seen using the Hondas leave them on the bow although I have seen people with a silverton motor yacht secure it to the swim platform. I like the bow better so it doesn't get wet. I would definitely turn it off at bedtime

 

[madhatter66]

I'm aware of the CO and have 2 detectors onboard. Just wonder if there's enough airflow on the deck for the gen. On the bow does seems a great place but the vibration/sound over the stateroom could be annoying.

 

[pmorehart]

For what its worth, most sailboaters use Honda generators at appropriate range. They are the choice of those who venture way offshore, or for backup power. Take heed of the CO advise. Sailboaters only use these to charge house banks to avoid running their diesel supply, and they use a lot less electric than a power boat. Do not run these when you are planning to sleep and by all means install co alarm. Carbon Monoxide is just as deadly as a major fuel leak. Good luck.