When you’re planning a long trip on the water; whether you’re cruising the coast, heading offshore, or living aboard full-time; reliable access to fresh water becomes a crucial factor for comfort, safety, and peace of mind.
That’s why we proudly install and service FCI Watermakers, a brand we trust and recommend to all our customers preparing for serious time at sea.
What is a Watermaker?
FCI Watermakers are top of the line desalination systems designed to turn seawater into clean, drinkable water used for smaller vessels and for high generation systems for larger yachts and commercial ships.
Built with the latest technology, their systems offer user-friendly controls, efficient energy usage, and robust construction that can withstand even the harshest marine environments. Whether you’re outfitting a private yacht, a charter boat, or a commercial vessel, FCI has a watermaker that will keep you self-sufficient for the long haul.
How does a watermaker work? – A watermaker uses reverse osmosis to remove salt, minerals, and other impurities from seawater. The system pushes seawater through a specialized membrane under high pressure, separating out pure, drinkable water and flushing the concentrated brine overboard.
How much water can an FCI Watermaker produce per day? – Production capacity varies widely based on the model. FCI units range from 200 gallons per day (GPD) for smaller vessels up to 264,000 GPD for large yachts, offshore platforms, and commercial ships.
Top FCI models include the Atlas+, Aquamiser+, and the Neptune+ Series, each tailored to different vessel sizes and water demands.
Neptune+ Series by FCI Watermakers
Why We Recommend FCI Watermakers
1. Unmatched Reliability – Built for real-world ocean conditions, FCI watermakers consistently deliver dependable fresh water production. Whether you’re crossing oceans or anchoring in remote areas, you’ll have the water you need.
2. Advanced Technology – FCI’s V4 Touch Controller offers a simple touchscreen interface for real-time monitoring and adjustments. Many systems also support remote operation and diagnostics, perfect for modern smart boats.
3. Energy Efficiency – Compared to older models and some competitors, FCI’s systems use optimized membrane recovery rates and energy-efficient pumps to reduce overall energy draw — critical for off-grid cruising.
4. Low Maintenance – User-friendly layouts with color-coded maintenance points make servicing straightforward. FCI watermakers also have globally available parts and consumables, minimizing downtime.
5. Industry-Leading Support – As an authorized dealer, we back every installation with full service and support. FCI’s technical team also offers quick troubleshooting help and comprehensive warranty coverage.
Pros and Cons of FCI Watermakers
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely reliable and durable | Higher initial cost compared to some budget brands |
| Advanced automation with remote monitoring | Professional installation highly recommended |
| High output capacity options | Not as compact as some newer, ultra-mini systems |
| Excellent technical support and parts availability | May be overbuilt for casual weekend boaters |
| Proven performance in harsh commercial and expedition settings | Requires consistent maintenance for peak efficiency |
FCI Watermakers Product Line
As of April 2025, FCI Watermakers offers a comprehensive lineup of marine reverse osmosis systems designed for various vessel sizes and water production needs.
Here’s an overview of their current models:
1. Aqualite Series
- Output: 200 GPD
- Configuration: Compact, low-power consumption
- Ideal For: Small boats and energy-conscious applications
- Features: Simple operation, efficient design
2. Aquamiser+ Series
- Output: 250 – 1,800 GPD
- Configurations: Framed or Modular
- Ideal For: Midsize yachts and sportfishing vessels
- Features: Advanced AQ3 control system, programmable settings, remote display capabilities
3. Max-Q+ Series
- Output: 700 – 1,850 GPD
- Configurations: Framed or Modular
- Ideal For: Larger yachts requiring advanced automation
- Features: V4 touchscreen controls, optional Automated Pressure Control (APC), NMEA 2000 compatibility
4. Atlas+ Series
- Output: 1,400 – 3,600 GPD
- Configurations: Framed or Modular
- Ideal For: Commercial vessels and superyachts
- Features: Compact commercial system, advanced automation, robust construction
5. Neptune+ Series
- Output: 3,400 – 10,000 GPD
- Configurations: Horizontal, Vertical, Modular
- Ideal For: Large-scale applications and offshore platforms
- Features: High efficiency, direct drive high-pressure pump, customizable configurations
6. Poseidon+ Series
- Output: 13,000 – 32,000 GPD
- Ideal For: Commercial ships and industrial applications
- Features: Heavy-duty design, high-capacity output
7. Atlantis Series
- Output: 34,000 – 61,000 GPD
- Ideal For: Large-scale industrial and municipal applications
- Features: Robust construction, high-volume production
8. Titan Series
- Output: 62,000 – 750,000+ GPD
- Ideal For: Mega-scale desalination projects
- Features: Custom-engineered systems, scalable solutions
9. DTS+ (Dockside Treatment System)
- Output: 250 – 1,850 GPD
- Ideal For: Treating dockside municipal water
- Features: In-line spot-free water treatment, utilizes existing pump and control systems
Each of these models is designed to meet specific needs, from small recreational boats to large commercial vessels. FCI Watermakers emphasizes reliability, efficiency, and advanced technology across their product range. For more detailed specifications or to find the right model for your vessel, you can visit their official website: FCI Watermakers
Frequently Asked Questions About FCI Watermakers
Can I run my watermaker while underway?
Yes – in fact, many boaters choose to operate their watermakers while underway when clean seawater is available.
FCI systems are built to handle the varying speeds and motion of a vessel in transit.
What size generator or battery bank do I need?
The required power depends on the model. Smaller FCI units can operate on 12V or 24V DC, while larger systems need AC power — typically 120V or 220V.
For heavy-use systems, a generator sized for marine duty is often recommended to avoid overloading your onboard power supply.
How long does it take to install a watermaker?
A typical FCI watermaker installation takes two to four days, depending on the complexity of the vessel’s plumbing and electrical systems.
We handle full system design, installation, and commissioning to make sure everything works perfectly from day one.
How much maintenance does an FCI Watermaker require?
FCI systems are designed for easy routine maintenance. Typical tasks include:
- Regular freshwater flushing
- Changing pre-filters every few hundred hours
- Inspecting and cleaning membranes as needed
Major servicing is usually only needed every few years under normal use.
FCI Watermakers vs Comparable Products
If you’re researching watermakers, you’ll likely come across brands like Spectra, Sea Recovery, and Schenker. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Brand | Strengths | Potential Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|
| FCI Watermakers | High output, commercial-grade build, excellent automation | Premium pricing |
| Spectra Watermakers | Very energy efficient, good for smaller boats | Lower daily output, slower refill rates |
| Sea Recovery | Great automation, sleek units | Higher maintenance costs, parts not always readily available |
| Schenker Watermakers | Super energy efficient (DC power focus) | Smaller output; best for smaller or eco-focused vessels |
If you need high output, long-term reliability, and global serviceability, FCI is often the best choice — particularly for serious cruisers, liveaboards, and commercial operators.
A Smart Investment for Your Vessel
A watermaker isn’t just a luxury for serious boaters — it’s a necessity. With an FCI Watermaker on board, you can:
- Explore remote destinations without needing to ration water
- Save valuable storage space otherwise used for water tanks
- Reduce reliance on dockside facilities and unpredictable port water quality
Choosing a watermaker is a big decision, and after years of installing, servicing, and troubleshooting different systems, we’re confident that FCI offers some of the finest options available today.
If you’re outfitting a new vessel or upgrading your current system, we’re here to help you select the right FCI model for your needs — and make sure it’s installed for peak performance.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about how FCI Watermakers can keep you independent and fully supplied wherever your journey takes you.
