Nothing is quite so frustrating aboard a small boat, as the tribulations and frustrations of maintaining a proper head.  Traditional solutions such as the troublesome “porta-potty”  require frequent pump out and maintenance.  They are foul smelling devices that barely meet the needs of the weekend sailor and are wholly unsuited for long term use.  Holding tanks take the problems into a long term foul smelling aggravation, requiring even more maintenance.  Is there no care free solution to this problem?  I have pondered the problems and possibilities for many years.  A costly solution would be one of the commercial composting heads.  They offer a non-smelly, relatively care free way to have a head aboard without the hassle of pump outs also avoiding fairly successfully the foul smells present in water based solutions.  Unfortunately, they are very expensive, going for around $1000.  They are also very large, being suitable only for larger boats. While they are great solutions for the average yachtsman, the trailer sailor will find them far to large to install in his boat.  If your boat is larger, I highly recommend you consider on of these  U.S Coast Guard Approved type III marine head.

Having investigated the principles of composting, I have come to believe the construction is very simple and could easily be built into any boat ( or any house for that matter).  Thus reassured, I have set about to design my own version, custom fit to Belle’s dimensions.  This page will detail that construction and the yard based trials of this design. In essence the design needs to include method for oxygenation and agitation of the mix.  I will document my solutions to these basic needs.  I will also take the device through “dock trials” here in the boatyard to test my design.  Wish me well:)

Sun-Mar’s Ecolet Composting toilet solution

Composting head enclosure for Belle. Consists of fan, exhaust tubing (1 and 1/4 inch ID), compost agitator and seat top with baffle. Switch is placed so when unit is not being used the fan is off. While the head has its compost in place the fan will run at all times to promote aerobic activity and prevent odors from escaping into the cabin. The urine separator adds the extra $1600 to the cost.  I’ll dump the cup, thank you very much. 

Exhaust tube makes its way through lockers to the rear of the boat.

Unused clamshell vent is re-appropriated for head exhaust.

Finished head.  Controls consist of switch, rotator constructed of 3/8 inch copper pipe, and opening baffle.  A cup will fit in the hole for female urine disposal.  The existing lid of the head area fits perfectly and with cushion in place for Vee berth fits in unobtrusively. 

I sewed up this custom liner attached with Common Sense fittings.  Handles fold behind when in place.