... the 1000. It is considerably less size and weight, and I can't think of many times I needed the extra power. It's great, sips gas, does everything I want it to. I made a locker for it in the cockpit locker, it lives there secure and nice, when using I either set it on the laz seat or the starboard deck. My gas is stored in a jerry which lives on deck. I have figured out a system where I measure the amount of gas I will need for whatever it is I am using it for, pour that amount in and let the generator run out of gas. Personally I find the Honda to be more offensive than the diesel (to others anchored nearby). I am always conscious of that, we generally don't anchor anywhere near anyone (Bahamas), so most the time it is not an issue, but when it is, I am very careful about when I run it and for how long. With our type of cruising we use the Honda maybe every other day for 1-2 hours max. when not moving, not all if we move every couple days. I wish I had solar but finding the real estate is our problem. Usually I will set up the Honda and run it when not onboard, a good time to be at the beach or snorkeling, as long as you don't piss anyone else nearby off.

Although the cost is about the same really, I would suggest the smaller 1000 unless you will need the bigger unit ... it will probably do what you need it to do, and after a while the bigger unit gets to be a hassle lugging around and storing.

One thing I definitely recommend is get yourself a foam pad to put under the Honda when it runs, it kills the vibration and reduces the noise. I got mine from safeworker.com. I got the ErgoKneel Handy Mat. Pricey, BUT ... Highly recommended.

Cheers, John