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Dingy Rides On The RIO DUCLE, Custom SAILBOATS, And TUK TUKS S4:E18
March 5, 2026 · 32 min · 4K views · Rio Dulce
Woman laughs aboard sunlit wooden sailboat cabin
What this video covers
A cruiser in the Rio Dulce, Guatemala, tours a custom-built 38-ft sailboat to inspect its electrical and battery systems.11:20 The vessel features a 2,400-watt solar array managed by a series-parallel configuration and a bank of self-built lithium iron phosphate batteries.10:53 The owner, a retired electrical engineer, demonstrates a battery management system (BMS) that monitors individual cell voltages and charge status via a mobile app.10:40 The cruiser plans to replicate this lithium setup on her own 40-year-old boat to improve energy independence.13:57 Additional tasks in the Rio Dulce include sourcing fresh orange juice for provisions, installing a dehumidifier to protect the boat's interior woodwork from tropical humidity, and utilizing local services for maintenance and personal care.6:41 The crew prepares the vessel for a period of storage in a local yard before returning to continue restoration work.21:26
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