Watermaker Series Guide
Installation guides, service pricing, and honest pros & cons for every Spectra series and the Dometic XZII. From the technician's perspective — not the brochure.
Farallon
High-Capacity AC Watermakers for Large Vessels
The Farallon series represents Spectra's flagship AC-powered watermakers, designed for mega yachts and commercial vessels requiring 1,800-2,800 gallons per day. Built around the Pearson Pump — Spectra's proprietary high-pressure pump technology — these units deliver maximum output with exceptional reliability. All Farallon models include Spectra Connect for full MFD integration and remote monitoring.
| Model | GPD | GPH | Voltage | Controller | Form | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Farallon 2800C | 2800 | 117 | 220V AC | Spectra Connect | Std | Mega yachts & commercial vessels 60-200ft |
| Farallon 1800C | 1800 | 75 | 220V AC | Spectra Connect | Std | Large yachts 55-120ft |
Plumbing:
2" seawater intake through-hull, 1" brine discharge, 3/4" product water line, pre-filter housing with 20" sediment and carbon filters
Electrical:
220V AC dedicated circuit, 30A breaker, NMEA 2000 backbone connection for MFD integration
Technician Notes:
- Requires generator capable of sustaining 19A continuous at 220V
- Seawater intake must be below waterline with proper strainer
- Brine discharge should be above waterline or with anti-siphon valve
- Spectra Connect controller requires NMEA 2000 drop cable for MFD integration
- Vibration isolation mounts recommended for engine room installation
| Service | Price | Interval |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Service & Inspection | Call for Best Price | Every 12 months |
| Pre-Filter Replacement (20" sediment + carbon) | Call for Best Price | Every 3-6 months |
| Membrane Replacement (40" TFC) | Call for Best Price | Every 5-7 years |
| Pearson Pump Rebuild | Call for Best Price | Every 8-10 years |
| Spectra Connect Controller Replacement | Call for Best Price | As needed |
| System Pickling / Winterization | Call for Best Price | Seasonal |
Pros:
- Highest output in Spectra lineup
- Pearson Pump reliability
- Full MFD integration
- Remote monitoring & control
Cons:
- Requires 220V AC generator
- Heaviest units (310-365 lbs)
- Highest upfront cost
- Professional installation required
- Mega yachts 60ft+
- Commercial fishing vessels
- Charter operations
- Superyachts with crew
Newport
Versatile DC/AC Watermakers for Serious Cruisers
The Newport series is Spectra's most versatile lineup, offering both DC-only and DC+AC operation. The Newport 700C is the only Spectra model that runs on both DC and AC power, making it ideal for vessels that anchor out on battery power but also have generator access. The Newport 400C is the most popular cruising watermaker in the Spectra lineup, known for its industry-leading 15 watts per gallon efficiency.
| Model | GPD | GPH | Voltage | Controller | Form | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Newport 700C | 700 | 29 | 24/48/110/220V | Spectra Connect | Std | Cruisers & trawlers 40-70ft |
| Newport 400C | 400 | 17 | 12/24/48V DC | Spectra Connect | Std | Cruisers & sailboats 32-55ft |
| Newport 400C Compact | 400 | 17 | 12/24/48V DC | Spectra Connect | Compact | Space-constrained installations 32-55ft |
Plumbing:
1.5" seawater intake through-hull, 3/4" brine discharge, 1/2" product water line, pre-filter housing with 10" or 20" filters
Electrical:
DC: 12V/24V/48V battery bank connection, 40A fuse. AC (700C only): 110/220V circuit, 15A breaker
Technician Notes:
- Newport 400C can run entirely on solar/battery — no generator needed
- 15 watts per gallon = approximately 6A draw at 12V for 17 GPH output
- Compact model uses dual short membranes — same output, smaller footprint
- Spectra Connect requires NMEA 2000 drop cable for MFD integration
- Pre-filter location should allow easy access for 3-6 month changes
| Service | Price | Interval |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Service & Inspection | Call for Best Price | Every 12 months |
| Pre-Filter Replacement | Call for Best Price | Every 3-6 months |
| Membrane Replacement | Call for Best Price | Every 5-7 years |
| Clark Pump Rebuild (400C) | Call for Best Price | Every 8-10 years |
| Spectra Connect Controller Replacement | Call for Best Price | As needed |
| System Pickling / Winterization | Call for Best Price | Seasonal |
Pros:
- Industry-leading energy efficiency (15 W/gal)
- DC operation — no generator needed
- 700C runs on both DC and AC
- Compact option available
Cons:
- Lower output than Farallon series
- Higher cost than Catalina for similar GPD
- 110-176 lbs — not lightweight
- Cruising sailboats 32-55ft
- Trawlers & motor yachts
- Liveaboards
- Solar/battery-powered vessels
Catalina
Smart Mid-Range DC Watermakers
The Catalina series offers Spectra's best value proposition — 340 GPD output with the choice of Spectra Connect (C models) or simpler Remote Manual controls (R models). The mag drive pump is quieter and more efficient than traditional pumps. Available in both standard and compact form factors, the Catalina fits most midsize vessels from 28-48 feet.
| Model | GPD | GPH | Voltage | Controller | Form | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Catalina 340C | 340 | 14 | 12/24/48V DC | Spectra Connect | Std | Midsize yachts & sailboats 28-48ft |
| Catalina 340R | 340 | 14 | 12/24/48V DC | Remote Manual | Std | Budget-conscious cruisers 28-48ft |
| Catalina 340C Compact | 340 | 14 | 12/24/48V DC | Spectra Connect | Compact | Tight engine rooms 28-48ft |
| Catalina 340R Compact | 340 | 14 | 12/24/48V DC | Remote Manual | Compact | Budget compact installations 28-48ft |
Plumbing:
1.5" seawater intake through-hull, 3/4" brine discharge, 1/2" product water line, 10" pre-filter housing
Electrical:
12V/24V/48V battery bank connection, 30A fuse, optional NMEA 2000 for C models
Technician Notes:
- Mag drive pump is significantly quieter than diaphragm pumps
- R models are more affordable than C models with same water output
- Compact models fit in spaces as small as a hanging locker
- Timed freshwater flush on R models extends membrane life
- C models can be monitored and controlled from your MFD chartplotter
| Service | Price | Interval |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Service & Inspection | Call for Best Price | Every 12 months |
| Pre-Filter Replacement | Call for Best Price | Every 3-6 months |
| Membrane Replacement | Call for Best Price | Every 5-7 years |
| Mag Drive Pump Service | Call for Best Price | Every 8-10 years |
| Spectra Connect Controller (C models) | Call for Best Price | As needed |
| System Pickling / Winterization | Call for Best Price | Seasonal |
Pros:
- Best value in Spectra lineup
- Quiet mag drive pump
- 4 variants for every need/budget
- Compact option for tight spaces
Cons:
- 340 GPD may be low for crews of 4+
- No AC power option
- R models lack MFD integration
- Midsize sailboats 28-48ft
- Trawlers & cruisers
- Budget-conscious cruisers (R models)
- Tight engine rooms (Compact models)
Cape Horn Extreme
Rugged Mechanical Watermakers for Offshore
The Cape Horn Extreme is built for one thing: making water in the harshest conditions on earth. Used by offshore racers, bluewater cruisers, and expedition vessels, the Cape Horn uses dual diaphragm pumps with rugged mechanical controls — no electronics to fail in the middle of the ocean. The multi-voltage 330R Compact model adds AC capability for vessels with generators.
| Model | GPD | GPH | Voltage | Controller | Form | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cape Horn Extreme 330 | 330 | 15 | 12/24V DC | Mechanical | Std | Offshore racers & bluewater cruisers 25-55ft |
| Cape Horn Extreme 330 Compact | 330 | 15 | 12/24V DC | Mechanical | Compact | Small boats & tight installations 25-50ft |
| Cape Horn Extreme 330R | 330 | 15 | 12/24V DC | Remote Manual | Std | Offshore racing campaigns 25-55ft |
| Cape Horn Extreme 330R Compact | 330 | 15 | 24/48/110/220V | Remote Manual | Compact | Flexible offshore installations 25-50ft |
Plumbing:
1.5" seawater intake through-hull, 3/4" brine discharge, 1/2" product water line, 10" pre-filter housing
Electrical:
12V/24V DC, 25A fuse. 330R Compact: multi-voltage 24/48/110/220V
Technician Notes:
- Lightest standard Spectra watermaker at 85 lbs
- No electronics = nothing to fail from salt spray or moisture
- Dual diaphragm pumps are field-serviceable with basic tools
- 330R Compact is the only Cape Horn with AC power option
- Proven on Vendée Globe, Volvo Ocean Race, and transatlantic crossings
- Can be mounted in any orientation — vertical, horizontal, or angled
| Service | Price | Interval |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Service & Inspection | Call for Best Price | Every 12 months |
| Pre-Filter Replacement | Call for Best Price | Every 3-6 months |
| Membrane Replacement | Call for Best Price | Every 5-7 years |
| Diaphragm Pump Rebuild Kit | Call for Best Price | Every 5-8 years |
| Valve & Seal Kit | Call for Best Price | Every 3-5 years |
| System Pickling / Winterization | Call for Best Price | Seasonal |
Pros:
- Most rugged Spectra watermaker
- No electronics = no electronic failures
- Lightest in lineup (85 lbs)
- Field-serviceable with basic tools
- Lowest service costs
Cons:
- No MFD integration
- No remote monitoring
- Manual operation only
- 330 GPD may be low for large crews
- Offshore racing
- Bluewater cruising
- Expedition vessels
- Remote locations without tech support
Ventura
Entry-Level DC Watermakers for Warm Waters
The Ventura series is Spectra's entry point for water independence. Optimized for warm water operation (above 50°F), these compact 150-200 GPD units are perfect for coastal cruisers, tropical sailors, and small vessels. Available with Spectra Connect (C models), Remote Manual (R models), or simple Analog controls (T/D models) — there's a Ventura for every budget.
| Model | GPD | GPH | Voltage | Controller | Form | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ventura 200C | 200 | 8 | 12/24V DC | Spectra Connect | Std | Tropical cruisers & coastal boats 22-40ft |
| Ventura 200R-T | 200 | 8 | 12/24V DC | Remote Manual | Std | Warm-water cruisers 22-40ft |
| Ventura 200T | 200 | 8 | 12/24V DC | Analog | Std | Entry-level cruisers & small boats 20-38ft |
| Ventura 150C | 150 | 6 | 12/24V DC | Spectra Connect | Std | Small vessels & coastal cruisers 18-35ft |
| Ventura 150R | 150 | 6 | 12/24V DC | Remote Manual | Std | Compact installations 18-35ft |
| Ventura 150D | 150 | 6 | 12/24V DC | Analog | Std | Budget small-vessel installations 18-35ft |
Plumbing:
1" seawater intake through-hull, 1/2" brine discharge, 1/2" product water line, 10" pre-filter housing
Electrical:
12V/24V DC, 15-20A fuse
Technician Notes:
- Lightest Ventura (200T) weighs just 60 lbs — manageable for one person
- Warm water optimized: best performance above 50°F water temperature
- Output drops 20-40% in cold water — consider Catalina or Cape Horn for cold climates
- Ventura 200T has the simplest analog controls — pressure gauge and flow meter
- Ventura 150C is the smallest Spectra with full Spectra Connect integration
- Modular design allows installation in multiple orientations
| Service | Price | Interval |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Service & Inspection | Call for Best Price | Every 12 months |
| Pre-Filter Replacement | Call for Best Price | Every 3-6 months |
| Membrane Replacement | Call for Best Price | Every 5-7 years |
| Pump Service | Call for Best Price | Every 8-10 years |
| System Pickling / Winterization | Call for Best Price | Seasonal |
Pros:
- Lowest price in Spectra lineup
- Lightest models (60-85 lbs)
- Simple installation
- Multiple controller options for every budget
Cons:
- Warm water only (above 50°F)
- Lower output (150-200 GPD)
- Not suitable for cold-water cruising
- 200T analog controls are basic
- Coastal cruisers
- Tropical sailors (Caribbean, Bahamas, Pacific)
- Small boats 18-40ft
- Budget-conscious first-time buyers
Dometic XZII
Combined Seawater & Dock Water Purification
The Dometic XZII is a 2-in-1 system combining a SeaXchange seawater desalinator with a Spot Zero double-pass freshwater purifier. It processes both seawater AND dock water to produce ultra-pure water — eliminating the need for separate systems. All models feature a 7" touchscreen, NMEA 2000 connectivity, 316L stainless steel high-pressure pump, and 1-touch fully automatic operation.
| Model | Seawater GPD | Dock Water GPD | Voltage | Amps | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XZII 1200/2000 | 1200 | 2000 | 230V AC | 19A | 288 lbs |
| XZII 1800/2000 | 1800 | 2000 | 230V AC | 19A | 308 lbs |
| XZII 2200/2000 | 2200 | 2000 | 230V AC | 19A | 328 lbs |
| XZII 2200/3000 | 2200 | 3000 | 230V AC | 125A | 348 lbs |
Plumbing:
2" seawater intake, dock water inlet, brine discharge, product water line, pre-filter housings
Electrical:
230V/60Hz or 220V/50Hz AC, 30A breaker, NMEA 2000 backbone
Technician Notes:
- Heaviest units: 288-348 lbs — crane or davit may be needed for installation
- Dual-source: seawater intake AND dock water connection required
- Spot Zero double-pass produces near-distilled quality water
- 7" touchscreen provides full system monitoring and diagnostics
- NMEA 2000 integration for MFD display of water production data
- Production may vary +/- 20% depending on water temperature and salinity
| Service | Price | Interval |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Service & Inspection | Call for Best Price | Every 12 months |
| Pre-Filter Replacement | Call for Best Price | Every 3-6 months |
| RO Membrane Replacement | Call for Best Price | Every 5-7 years |
| Spot Zero Membrane Replacement | Call for Best Price | Every 3-5 years |
| High-Pressure Pump Service | Call for Best Price | Every 8-10 years |
| Touchscreen Controller Replacement | Call for Best Price | As needed |
| System Pickling / Winterization | Call for Best Price | Seasonal |
Not Sure Which Series?
Use our Watermaker Selector tool or call us directly. 25+ years of marine watermaker installation and service experience — we'll match you to the right unit.