Who said that sailing means giving up on little luxuries? On the Sailing Blue, we've discovered that a small 12V freezer can make all the difference. After much research, we settled on this model: VEVOR Portable Electric Fridge. We were looking for something affordable, energy-efficient, and resistant to movement... and so far, it hasn't disappointed us!
When we started our maritime adventures, we realized that food preservation was one of our biggest challenges. Traditional refrigerators are useful, but their freezing capacity is limited. We wanted more: to store vegetables, meat, and fish during long voyages without worrying about spoilage. And that's where our trusty cold companion comes in.
It's been eight months since we got it, and its performance has been flawless. It not only preserves food perfectly but also allows us to enjoy small luxuries like ice for drinks or cold beers after a day of sailing under the sun.
With the freezer, our way of cooking and meal planning has completely changed. We can now bring frozen vegetables, fresh meat, and fish without fear of them going bad. This gives us much more flexibility and autonomy, especially during long voyages away from ports.
Thanks to the boat's updated energy system, we've been able to use the freezer for several months without needing to recharge the batteries at port. However, as summer ends and the days get shorter, we start noticing a slight deficit between energy production and consumption. That's why we're considering expanding our solar panels with a portable one. Still deciding, but we'll keep you updated!
Currently, we have two refrigerators onboard: the original one from the boat and our new freezer. If we had to choose, we'd definitely prioritize the latter. Its efficiency and versatility make it a key element for staying comfortable even during the longest trips.
The arrival of the freezer led us to another great discovery: vacuum sealing. Did you know you can extend the shelf life of your food even further with a small machine that seals reusable bags? We love it because it not only reduces food waste but also helps minimize the use of disposable plastics. It's a sustainable solution that perfectly complements our onboard lifestyle philosophy.
Forty years ago, having a freezer on a boat was unthinkable. Nowadays, thanks to technology, we can enjoy comforts that once seemed reserved only for land. Of course, we remain mindful of our environmental impact and always try to optimize our resources. But why not indulge in a few luxuries if they enhance the experience so much?
Now, preparing meals in advance, preserving leftovers, or even keeping favorite desserts is possible. And, of course, there's always a cold beer ready to celebrate a successful day of sailing.
The freezer has been a game-changer for life aboard. It allows us to be more autonomous, creative in the kitchen, and, why not, enjoy small pleasures that make life at sea even more enjoyable. While we continue to learn and fine-tune our energy system, we're very happy with this investment.
If you're thinking of adding a freezer to your boat, we encourage you to take the plunge. Maybe it's not essential, but it undoubtedly improves the quality of life onboard significantly.