Abstract: A portable water purification system and method of operation of the system is disclosed that may comprise a container defining a water purification chamber; a plurality of UV generating light sources distributed in the purification chamber of the container; and a portable power source electrically connected to the light sources, and adapted to convert kinetic energy to electrical energy to provide to the light sources. The portable power source may be adapted to be driven by human motive power to provide the kinetic energy. The purification system may comprise a filling opening to the container; and a filter intermediate the filling opening and the chamber adapted to remove turbidity from the water entering the water purification chamber through the filling opening. The portable power source may comprise a hand-cranked electrical generator.