[C320-list] Water Tank Balance

[Utility Email]

We are cruisers as well.  We always use up the forward tank first and then the aft tank.  Having the water weight removed from the front of the boat first seems to improve trim when sailing and motoring.  Using each tank separately also provides ample warning that our fresh water storage is getting low too.  Also, the forward tank will drain water into the empty aft tank to find equilibrium, so we independently shut of one tank valve when we open the other valve.  I have found that if we keep both tanks in use, then when we run out of water, we are out - not a good thing when we are anchoring for several days in the San Juan and Canadian Gulf Islands where potable water can be a little scarce. 

David Swanson
S/V Emily Ann
2007 C320 MK II, No. 1107
Mukilteo, Washington


> On May 23, 2015, at 6:16 PM, Kaare Wold <sailor3952 at charter.net> wrote:
> 
> Skippers,  would appreciate some opinions on the recommended practice for balancing the use of water in the fwd and aft water tanks.  Assuming both tanks are full, there are several options available.  One is to deplete the fwd tank first.  Two is to deplete the aft tank first.  Three is to use water from both tanks equally.
> What is the recommended method to keep the boat in the optimum sailing trim?  We are not racers, but cruisers.
> Thanks for your suggestions and comments
> Mary & Kaare Wold
> S/V  Sheet Music  #945
> Sturgeon Bay, WI