I'm looking for a small portable generator to bring on my boat for offshore or overnight trips. Has anyone done this? Any preference to a manufacturer?

Honda makes great small generators. Under 1G.

HONDA - we have a 1985 ex650, it's light, whisper quiet and a tank runs for 3 - 4 hrs depending on its load. My dad and I always comment on the quality of this engine. It has never taken more than 2 pulls (and 2 pulls is only after sitting for the winter).

Honda seems to be the best but they are expen$sive. Coleman makes a 1850 watt, that they sell at Home Depot much more reasonable. I have the coleman and it works fine. Runs all night at almost max load (1500 watts) and only needs to be refilled once.

Yeah the 1K Honda w/ inverter is $800ish 2K is more, but reliable and quiet. We use them exclusively in a marine environment and I had to service the 2K once at Razzee for next to nothing..