Open Ocean Ltd has been manufacturing  water makers in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand  since 2001 utilizing 35 years of boating experience.

The proprietor of Open Ocean Ltd lived aboard his yacht for 20 years, actively cruising for 10 of those years.  He discovered during his time on the water that high tech components are not only not required but usually the first thing to break down (generally in remote locations).  He often found himself bi-passing these high tech components to the point where he realized that a SIMPLE, RELIABLE AND AFFORDABLE water maker could be made.  He developed the early version of an engine driven model and took it cruising, where he put it to the test for five years.  He then returned to New Zealand to design and build a truly  simple, reliable water maker.

Thus was born, a revolutionary new concept in water makers.
One that works all the time, is easy to operate and doesn’t break the bank.
OPEN OCEAN WATERMAKER

Reverse Osmosis is the process of converting sea water (salt water) into fresh water.  The salt water is pressurized  and run across a semi-permeable membrane.  The membrane allows water molecules to pass though it while acting as a barrier to dissolved solids.  The contaminants are washed away by the brine mixture passing over the membrane and pure water, comparable to rain water is produced.

Components that make up our reverse osmosis desalination unit (also known as a water maker) are modular in design.  This allows for best use of any unused space and therefore makes our water maker a viable option for vessels of all sizes.  The ability to make fresh water at any time eliminates need to store large quantities of water, travel back to port to collect water and minimize usage during long passages.  It will also reduce the weight of the vessel which has safety implications as well as speed.  Convert some of those water tanks into fuel tanks to increase your range.  You may rest easy knowing that the water you, your family and crew are drinking is the freshest purest water available to you.  No more need to settle for water from sources with questionable hygienic attributes.  

Our components are non proprietary and usually available world wide.  You won’t be tied to your water maker manufacturer for custom made expensive components.  This is a very important feature to vessels operating internationally.  The modular design also lends to easily customize the system to suit your water maker needs.  

Open Ocean Water Makers are reliable because they are simple.  No flashing lights, probes, controls, etc…. To send the commands, you are in charge/control.  We believe the pitfalls for automating the simple process of water making far outweigh their benefits.

How much water do you need ?   Simply put…….The more the merrier! Open Ocean Water Makers start at 80 liters per hour with one membrane and can expand to 160 liters per hour with two membranes and 240 liters per hour with 3 membranes.  Our high pressure pump supports 1, 2 or 3 membranes.  If you start with 80 liters and decide you require more, simply add another membrane.

What do you need all that water for ?
Drinking:  Well that pretty much explains itself.  Put your mind at ease knowing that the water you are drinking is pure and clean.  Sometimes you will find that if water is available from remote locations, the quality of that water is questionable for drinking.
Showers:  Swimming in salt water is wonderful, however, not so wonderful when left on your skin after swimming.  Rinse after every swim and keep your skin clear of irritations caused by salt water.
Washing down your gear:  Extend the life of all your gear by having enough fresh water to rinse all your equipment after a passage, day of fishing or diving.  A fresh water washdown will also keep gear in good working condition.

Eliminates the need for large tanks to store water on board: A person needs/uses the same amount of water on a small boat as on a large boat.  However, the ability to make water at any time means you will need to carry less in tanks on board.

Flush Options
All models of the Open Ocean Water Maker have a manual flushing system as standard.  This system has proven fool proof as it cuts costs and increases reliability.    We recommend flushing after each use.  However, if you think an automatic flush system would suite your needs, it is available as an option.  Good for those times you will have to leave your vessel for extended periods.

Installation
Open Ocean Water Makers come with a complete Installation and Operation Manual.  As it is with the installation of any piece of equipment, it is in your best interest to read the manual completely before starting.  The installation can be completed by any competent  yacht/launch service or DIY individual.  Open Ocean Ltd will assist you in any way possible to ensure a practical and satisfactory outcome.  Connection to the vessel’s electrical system must be performed by an appropriately qualified electrician.

Electric models are the simplest to install as the high pressure pump is plug in single phase.  The modular design of the rest of the components allow it to be fit anywhere in the boat where space and convenience dictate.

Engine driven models require a bracket to be made to mount the high pressure pump to your engine. The rest of the components, as with the Electric model, can be taken care of by any competent DIY er.

Warranty
Open Ocean Ltd provides a 5 year warranty on its manufactured parts.  All other components are covered under the original manufacturer   warranty.

Still not sure what you need? Please contact us witjh your questions or to discuss your power requirements and considerations. Phone:  +64 9 402 8449 Email:  openocean@xtra.co.nz