Elara is a very “wired” boat. Being that I’ll be working aboard, I need power for my laptop/ phone/tablet/chargers etc… Since all these devices are ultimately DC powered, it didn’t make sense to install an inverter (DC->AC) just to be able to plug in an adaptor (AC->DC) to charge my electronics. Instead, I figured the solution is more DC outlets!
As a side note, it puzzles me that a boat would have 20 AC outlets, which are only usable on shorepower and none/minimal DC outlets, which are useful wherever… I guess designers expect most boats to spend most of their time at the dock. Sad. Personally I’d love an all DC boat with a big battery bank and just an inverter for the odd ac-only thing I need to run.
But I digress… anyway I found a nice panel from BlueSeas, which has both a straight 12v outlet, as well as a dual-usb (2.1a) outlet. And the dimensions fit perfectly in the area between the electric panel and the nav table. Sweet!
While I generally try to avoid cutting holes in my boat at any cost, I think this time it was worth it. Now I can charge all my electronics right at the nav station. Is it showing my geek-ness that I am entirely too excited over this?
I enjoyed your post, and we’re not far behind you about going cruising