Watt&Sea Cruising 600 Hydrogenerator – 600W, Long 970mm Leg (for Boats over 35ft, High Transom)

The Watt&Sea Cruising 600 with a 970mm leg combines the massive charging capacity of the 600W generator with the versatility of extended mounting, suitable for specialized hulls and conditions. This version is perfect for yachts with high freeboard at the stern, for catamarans with wide aft beams, or whenever you want to mount the hydrogenerator farther from the hull (on a cross-beam, rail system, etc.) for a cleaner water flow to the propeller. The 970mm mast ensures the prop will operate in undisturbed water flow, which notably improves performance in waves and at high speed.

The Cruising 600 (970) carries all the functionality of the short version – automatic 12/24V switching, Bluetooth connectivity, support for different propellers, and solar panel integration – but it’s optimized for a higher mounting position. When installed correctly (following the guideline of ~20cm submersion of the prop at rest), the generator begins producing power as early as ~3–4 knots. As speed increases, especially beyond 6 knots, you really feel the muscle of the 600W unit: in a short time your batteries reach full charge, even if they have large capacity. This is crucial for long transoceanic legs when solar panels might not suffice and fuel for a genset is limited – the hydrogenerator fills the gap, day and night, silently and without fuel.

• For professional passagemaking: The long version of the Cruising 600 is favored by experienced captains and racers who demand maximum reliability and performance. For example, many ocean-crossing catamarans use a pair of 600W hydrogenerators (one on each hull) to achieve total energy self-sufficiency during passages. With the 970mm model, mounting on a catamaran is easier – it can be attached to a central beam between the hulls, allowing the props to run in clean water.
• Durability at high speeds: When a boat sails at 10+ knots (such as surfing down waves or on a fast multihull), the hydrogenerator experiences significant force. The Cruising 600 series is tested at speeds up to ~20 knots with fixed pitch props and up to 30 knots with variable pitch (in the racing models) – it withstands these loads without damage. The long mast is aerodynamically optimized to avoid vibrations or excessive drag, yet it’s robust enough to take shock loads from waves.
• Upgraded prop system: If desired, the Cruising 600 can be equipped with different props to broaden its range. The standard 240mm prop is all-purpose, but with the long version some users opt for the optional 280mm propeller which starts generating at lower speeds (useful for heavy boats that sail slowly). Likewise, for very fast boats, a 200mm prop is available, which reduces drag at >10 knots, allowing the generator to remain deployed up to around 13 knots (beyond that, with a fixed prop it’s recommended to lift it). These options make the system adaptable to your sailing style.
• Service & maintenance: Given the higher loads, a bit more attentive maintenance of the 600W generator is advised. This includes more frequent checks of the propeller’s condition (for any cracks or wear), the tightness of bolts, and the electrical connectors. Nevertheless, the device is designed for long-term use – many sailors report that after thousands of miles, maintenance comes down to basic cleaning and replacement of minor consumables. Should you need spare parts or technical help, Watt&Sea has representatives and partners in many countries, ensuring you won’t be without support wherever you sail.
• Investment in energy independence: While a hydrogenerator is a significant investment, it pays off quickly in the form of saved fuel, extended battery life (kept at a healthier state of charge), and increased comfort on board. Instead of listening to the drone of an engine or genset, you enjoy the sound of wind and water while all your yacht’s systems run normally. The Cruising 600 (970mm) is a top-of-the-line product designed for those who make no compromises with autonomy and safety during long ocean voyages.