SDA209 Survival Power: Living Without an Inverter

Survival mode looks a little different at anchor. With the inverter gone, we start rethinking how to power life aboard Dark Angel.

In this episode of Sailing Dark Angel, still at Staniel Cay, we pull out our lightning-damaged Magnum inverter and see what’s left of it. After a quick swim in the clear blue water, we get to work wiring our 100-litre Dometic freezer directly to the batteries for DC power, so we can finally give the generator a break and enjoy a little quiet aboard.

⚠️ Lightning Strike Update
We were directly struck by lightning. Navigation systems, running lights, anchor lights, work lights, a large freezer, and even our keel were damaged. We're still facing VAT, duty, exchange rates, customs brokerage, and a costly haul-out for keel repairs in the Dominican Republic. Current items still needing repair/replacement include our Isotherm freezer in the saloon, our AIS and keel repairs.
Also, our newly replaced wind instruments aren't working. Facing shipping and customs for replacement.

If you can help, even a share means the world:
🙏 https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-rebuild-after-lightning-struck-their-boat

🍹 Rum tasting article in Latitudes and Attitudes magazine – it’s delicious!
https://digitalmagazine.latsatts.com/sailingdarkangel-5456

🌊 Our Bahamas snorkeling article (also in Lats & Atts)
https://summer2023.latsatts.com/theresthisplace#a_aid=640782a615fd9&a_bid=0e47bed1

🎒 We take our Ugowear waterproof bags EVERYWHERE!
Amazing company, amazing gear.
Affiliate link: https://ugowear.com?aff=34

⛵ Join the journey
https://sailingdarkangel.com
Lisa's personal blog is being added now.
Like what you see? You can even buy us a beer 🍻

🛠️ Help us keep sailing
Amazon wishlist: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/KYJVC8ZWGHY2

🎥 Become part of the Crew on Patreon
Without a Crew, a Ship Has No Direction.
https://www.patreon.com/sailingdarkangel

📰 Our first article in Pussfoot Magazine!
https://www.pussfoot.com/blogs/water/sailing-dark-angel-sailing-and-slow-cooked-ribs

👕 Dark Angel & Be Nauti Swag
https://spoiledbratdesigns.com/product-category/sailing-dark-angel-clothing-and-accessories/
Want something custom? Email: [email protected]

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🎶 Opening and closing song: “Who We Are” by Miah
Check out his band NINETEEN EIGHTY SEVEN
https://nineteeneightyseven.com
https://open.spotify.com/artist/6WaNVPlzMwFn7WCVT3gVcJ

Lisa & Dave
Sailing Dark Angel
#boatlife #catamaran #islandspirit #sailing #cruisinglife #sailboats

© Sailing Dark Angel 2025