A Spanish supplier heads to Amsterdam
Dessal says it will exhibit in the Spanish Pavilion at METSTRADE 2026, where it intends to discuss current desalination equipment and its approach to retrofitting watermakers. The company identifies stand 01.275 for the international marine-equipment exhibition.
This is a planned November display, not an announcement that the equipment has already been installed aboard a particular yacht. Owners interested in an upgrade should request configuration details directly from the supplier.
The purpose of a watermaker refit
Watermakers allow a yacht to produce freshwater from seawater using membrane filtration and supporting high-pressure components. A system may remain mechanically serviceable while its controls, monitoring interfaces or energy management become dated.
A refit package may offer an alternative to complete replacement if pumps, membranes and plumbing remain in appropriate condition. Whether that is sensible depends on a technical assessment of the individual installation rather than a general marketing promise.
Why reliable freshwater matters
Yachts between 12 and 24 metres frequently combine comfortable accommodation with limited freshwater tank capacity. Extended stays at anchor, frequent showers and galley use can make water production more than an optional luxury.
Real output depends on feed-water temperature, salinity, membrane condition and equipment operation. A prospective owner should estimate daily consumption and compare it with proven net freshwater production rather than the pump's advertised theoretical capacity.
Power budgets and installation constraints
A desalination system adds a significant electrical or mechanical load while underway or at anchor. Matching its operation to generator use, battery charging and other equipment can help avoid repeated starts or inefficient power management.
Space for filters and membranes is important too. Technicians need access for cartridge changes, flushing and maintenance without dismantling unrelated machinery.
Safety and water-quality responsibilities
Watermakers require appropriate pretreatment, careful operation and attention to product-water quality. Poor maintenance can reduce output, shorten membrane life and allow contamination to affect the water system.
Owners should follow the manufacturer's flushing and sanitising guidance, as well as local recommendations for safe drinking water. A new control module does not eliminate the need to inspect intake screens, hoses and storage tanks.
A relevant supplier development
The November METSTRADE appearance is a chance for installers and yacht managers to compare a proposed retrofit against the cost and disruption of a complete replacement. Published performance figures and the list of retained components will be central to that judgement.
Dessal has not supplied a verified universal saving for every installation, so cost or power improvements should not be assumed. The useful message for yacht owners is to investigate modernisation possibilities before discarding functioning major components.
