220V vs 110V systems and conversion necessity

[Rick & Suz]

We are in the purchase mode for a used Fountain Pajot Belize catamaran and find many with 220V systems throughout. What kind of concerns must we be aware of in buying a boat that is set up this way? Is conversion expensive, difficult or even necessary if our cruising routes will be mostly Caribbean island hopping as far south as South American coast? Any discussion would be most appreciated. Rick

[KIMBERLITE]

what 220 volt items do you have on board?
fair winds,
eric

[sdycsailor]

Rick & Suz - somewhat late, but for what it's worht. We just purchased a used FP Athena with 220v. Since we have no plans for Eurpoean travel I have removed the 220v Alternator from the stbd engine. Everything remains in place, including the dock connection.
Prior owners (Canadians) used every day - each morning they would start the stbd engine to charge the batteries and make their morning toast - so they found it very useful.
Where do you keep the boat? How do you plan on using?
We are in San Diego and hope to be heading to Mexico in '06 or'07.

Regards,