Installing air conditioning unit in Cape Dory Daysailor

[Sea Hunt Video]

I recently purchased a 1980 Cape Dory Daysailor (open cabin model). I live in Miami. As everyone knows it is very hot. I would like to install an air conditioning unit in the Daysailor. I would like recommendations on what make and model of a/c unit I should install. I have heard good reports about the Marine Air 16000 BTU unit. I am especially interested in recommendations on BTU size since it will be used mostly in hot and humid Miami.

I would also appreciate recommendations on where to install the a/c unit so as to maintain proper trim and balance.

Thanks

[Ben Miller]

I think I've got just the thing for you, Roberto. Weight trim isn't an issue, and if the wind dies, you can make your own!

[Jim Walsh]

I have no personal experience installing air conditioning on a day sailor but it is an interesting proposition so I will be closely following the recommendations of our more knowledgeable members.

[Steve Kuhar]

Roberto,

If you install the unit well forward you can maintain proper trim by installing dinghy davits on the stern.

Steve Kuhar

[Steve Kuhar]

Roberto,

Upon further reflection about your problem of how to keep cool while sailing in Miami, I was reminded of a similar problem in which one of our members who was fishing our northernmost waters in the native traditions was looking for suggestions on how he might stave off the cold, and it was suggested by members of this forum, that if he were to build a small fire in the bottom of the boat it would at least keep his feet warm. Unfortunately, when he tried to act on this suggestion the entire boat went up in flames and he lost everything.

This lends credence to the old adage that "You cant have your kayak and heat it too."

Steve

[Forrest]

Have you considered making a one piece drop board and cutting a hole big enough to install a small window unit - I've seen this work on a CD 36.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06WRRZLYB?aa ... 8680510301

[Oswego John]

Hi Roberto,

I wish you a "Happy April Fools Day", too.

Think Spring,
O J

[mgphl52]

Hi Roberto,

Please excuse my tardiness in replying. After studying the problem in depth, I believe you can avoid extra holes in the hull and expensive wiring & plumbing costs, not to mention the expense of a reefer unit itself.
My suggestion is that you arrange a contract with a local ice house to deliver a cockpit load of crushed ice to your nearest fuel dock early every morning that you wish to sail. Then you can simply "slide" into the cool and go sailing.
Most likely, by the time the ice melts, you'll still be numb and not feel the heat.

Hope this helps!

[Skylark]

I have no experience with this alternative. However, it is the only 12v (or 24v) air-conditioning unit I have found for marine use. It is also very expensive. Though, they did try to sell me an older unit at about half price.

http://www.cruisencomfortusa.com/marineseries

[mashenden]

By far this is the best boat air conditioner for a Daysailor. As you can see I installed one in a Typhoon Daysailor last April 1st. Wow, was it ever cooool!!!!


Warning: if the setting is too cool, you may experience tattered sails.