I can't vouch for effectiveness as it is yet to be installed but after deciding we did not need to spend too much on a watermaker at the Southampton Boat Show - we resolved to install a Katadyn 80E - one of the simpler pieces of kit - and produces 12 litres per hour.

Thats enough for the two of us to keep tanks topped as we tend to use the engine for perhaps 2/3 hours in an average cruising day.

The UK sourced price of the kit was £2,800 + 17.5% UK tax = £3290.

We then checked prices in the USA and found we could buy if off the shelf there ffrom West Marine (who frequently ship customers orders to the EU) for US$2,800. 

Even better - we then found the same firm (West Marine) had this device on offer via eBay - and our bid of US£2,200 was placed - and we got it!

So at current exchange rates - delivered to Palma where the boats parked, and with freight and taxes paid of 410 euros - I reckon we've got it for a total amount equal to of £1,800.  That's saved us £1,500 (2,200 euros) over first quoted UK costs.

We've now checked out its size and it seems the perfect location for the enclosed case unit is below the floors adjacent to the galley area.  That location is cool (important to prevent algea build up) and makes all pipe runs into the tank manifold and from the water intake / waste discharge (on this unit one can tap into the engine water intake after the corse strainer plus exit via sink outlet) easy.

The primary filters and valves will be fitted into the galley sink cupboards and a simple faucet mounted by the sink to sample output prior to diverting the flow into tthe tanks.

I'll let you know how effective the watermaker is once it is fully installed later this year. 

But just in case you are considering any more expensive piece of kit for any EU boat you might wish to also follow our lead and check out sourcing it further afield.

Now guys - any suggestions on what can I spend my saved £1,800 on?.......

JOHN