That's why I want a solar still, but I cannot find a design I like well enough. When I used to work at sea, there were times when the wind and current would act to move a vessel int eh direction you wanted it to go, at which time someone I knew would say "The Lord is doing the work." With a solar still, one could say the same thing.

IMHO, if you are in a survival situation letting the forces of nature work for you will be key, instead of trying to force them into doing what you want. Spending your energy using a still over a fire might be too much work for what it is worth. However, I am not going to say that having one around is a bad idea. If you have plenty of food, shelter, warmth, etc. and water is the one thing you lack, it could be a life saver.