How does desalination impact freshwater availability onboard a vessel?

The process of desalination significantly enhances freshwater availability onboard a vessel by enabling the conversion of seawater into potable water. This is critical for maritime operations, as vessels often operate in remote locations where access to freshwater sources is limited or nonexistent. By employing desalination methods, such as reverse osmosis or distillation, ships can produce a sustainable supply of drinking water directly from the vast supply of seawater around them. This capability reduces the need to carry large quantities of freshwater from port, thereby optimizing storage space and reducing logistical complexities associated with freshwater transport. Other options mention aspects like reliance on external sources or the use of seawater for cooling, but they do not directly address the primary function of desalination in increasing the vessel's access to potable water.