We are currently preparing our Dufour Grand Large 380 (2014) for blue water sailing, starting with several months in the Med and a Transatlantic crossing. For her energy management (approx. 400 Ah batteries), we are considering a wind generator, in addition to a second alternator; so far, solar panels are also an option. We are excluding a diesel generator due to several reasons.
I would like to learn from others what your EXPERIENCES and SUGGESTIONS are with regards to WIND GENERATORS?

• power generation in relation to wind speed in "real cruising conditions"
• noise below deck - if installed on aft deck
• installation - physical considerations (e.g. space), materials, cost, tips & tricks etc. 
• maintenance
• comparison of brands (e.g. Superwind 350, Air-X from Primus Wind Power, D400 wind generator)
• benefits vs. risks
• ...

Looking forward to hearing from you!
Thanks, Vanessa

+x

 

johnenvanessa - 1 Jan 2021

We are currently preparing our Dufour Grand Large 380 (2014) for blue water sailing, starting with several months in the Med and a Transatlantic crossing. For her energy management (approx. 400 Ah batteries), we are considering a wind generator, in addition to a second alternator; so far, solar panels are also an option. We are excluding a diesel generator due to several reasons.

• power generation in relation to wind speed in "real cruising conditions"
• noise below deck - if installed on aft deck
• installation - physical considerations (e.g. space), materials, cost, tips & tricks etc. 
• maintenance
• comparison of brands (e.g. Superwind 350, Air-X from Primus Wind Power, D400 wind generator)
• benefits vs. risks
• ...

Looking forward to hearing from you!
Thanks, Vanessa

Hi Vanessa,
I do not know much about wind generators, that said:
The most comprehensive and best write up I am aware of reviewing wind generators and their pluses and minuses can be found at Attainable Adventures Cruising web site.
If memory serves, some, perhaps much, was written by OCC member Colin Speedie.
On the site is also a valuable overview on how to think about power generating and an in-depth examination of the various, often confusing, options. The writing is bolstered by a wide array of responders who have been out there and done that.
This site charges a modest fee: far less than a year’s subscription to most magazines and offers far far more. If you are preparing a boat for offshore sailing widely wandering cruising, I believe you will find it worth every penny.
Please let us know what you discover and whether the AAC site was helpful.
My best, Dick Stevenson, s/v Alchemy

Thank you for your wealth of comments, sharing different perspectives! 
From all comments I take away that a wind generator definitely needs more than 10 knots of apparent wind to generate energy and that with regards to noise, it's about how I take it, but in an anchorage other sailors might have their own opinions about it ... It's interesting to see that if you had/ have a wind generator at all, you also have solar panels! 
@Dick I did not know of the AAC website and shall explore it now. 
@rhudson Richard, thank you very much for providing such a level of detail with regards to your experience - this is very helpful. 
@Nimue Anne & Michael, great to read that you tested all different types of energy generation and also mention the Watt&Sea hydro generator. Thanks for the offer to chat - I will send an email.