and will be using an ice box only. We really don't want to give up the space or power for a frig unit of any sort (though I did sacrifice enough room for a 17 lb SSB radio :) which will probably wind up using enough power to run a frig.) I have three group 31s but they are Optimas so we still have less than 300ah available. I do have couple of solar panels and will add one more before leaving. I also have a complete set-up for adding another alt. but refuse to ruin a good diesel using it as a generator.

In all our years of cruising we have never had a frig and if I start now I'm afraid I would soon be dependent on it. The same goes for a water maker - I would love to have one - but for us the trade offs are not worth it.

We learned to cruise in Alaska and the only thing we used our ice box for was to keep things warm. The bilges kept everything cold and fresh water was as close as the nearest waterfall or creek. I was surprised to find that in the Baja we were able to cope just fine as well, without the luxuries of cold and unlimited water. Everything's relative of course - we have been small boat cruisers for a long time now and enjoy the inherent simplicity.

Just one knothead's opinion ;)