To be safe, your boat needs at least two batteries to propel its movement. Going out on the waters will have you seeking power sufficiency to run the boat the distance you wish to go and return safely.
Nothing is more terrifying than being stuck in a place with only still waters in sight. The sea or anything similar is unlike the land, where electricity is easily accessible, and you promptly receive instant help.
So, you will want to have enough batteries for use in your voyage. Keep reading this article to determine the most precise quantity.
The Different Types of Batteries
When figuring out how many batteries for your boat, you must first acknowledge the type of batteries as an amateur sailor. Of course, you cannot go for anything called a battery, as there are batteries engineered specifically for vessels.
Starting Batteries (Cranking Batteries)
As the name suggests, starting batteries are number one on the list. These marine batteries are made to awaken the vessel's slumbering heart (the engine). If the boat's engine is ignited, it can move with you, steering it in the direction you'd like it to take.
The standard starting batteries are lead-acid batteries, followed closely by lithium-ion ones. They are designed to crank the boat's engine by releasing huge and quick bursts of power, which is necessary for the engine startup.
From their functionality, you can decipher that a starting battery is compulsory in your boat. Setting your boat in motion cannot happen without one.
Deep-cycle Batteries
Deep-cycle batteries are often used together with the starting batteries. No wonder most boats have two or more batteries. But then, what are deep-cycle batteries, and which features define them?
While starter batteries handle the engine, deep-cycle batteries power the boat's auxiliary systems. An auxiliary system is any other component of the boat that's not the engine. It includes things like the lights, steering wheel, radio, and electrical devices like battery banks.
This deep-cycle battery comes into play immediately after the starting battery switches on the engine. Its design has thicker plates, and it discharges slow but steady energy streams for long durations. The thick plates make them very robust to endure deep discharges, rendering them more durable.
Dual-purpose Batteries
What's fascinating is that the starting battery and deep cycle battery functionalities are combined into one existing battery branded as a dual-purpose battery. It's a hybrid solution for modestly sized watercraft where battery space is an inevitable concern.
If your boat has little battery space, rather than fitting a starting battery and a deep-cycle battery separately, you can settle on this 2-in-1 battery. The dual-purpose battery works by first igniting the engine, then slowing down the power output to run the boat accessories.
While it's a perfect and cost-effective alternative, it barely possesses specialized designs. Therefore, you should be aware that they do not perform as efficiently as a starting or deep-cycle battery.
The Size and Nature of The Boat
Also, the number of batteries for your boat depends on its size and nature. Logically, the larger the boat, the more batteries are required because the electrical power requirements are enormous. Therefore, knowing the type and size of the boat you own or plan to acquire is essential.
Different categories exist in terms of size, how big or small a water vessel is. Your boat falls under either small watercraft, medium-sized vessels, or large boats or yachts, which we're going to internalize to determine the correct type and number of batteries.
Small Watercraft
Small watercraft are generally small and compact. In marine terminology, any boat typically below 20 feet in length is considered a small craft. So, if your boat is 15 feet long, for example, just know it's small. On the upside, you will not go above and beyond to source its battery.
Most canoes and kayaks are small watercraft. With their easy operation, a single dual-purpose battery will likely suffice when you head out to a nearby lake for fun. We are advocating for this boat battery type, with space as one of the reasons.
Remember, we pointed out that dual-purpose batteries are most suitable for small spaces, which is common in small watercraft. Moreover, small watercraft have simple engines and few secondary systems that are not power-hungry.
Medium-sized Vessels
These vessels fall between small and large water vessels. They are not too small or substantially large to be referred to as large boats. Medium-sized vessels are practically 20 feet to 40 feet in length.
You can sail them in the ocean or any coastal body, such as cruising boats and center consoles. No doubt the components are bigger compared to the small watercraft. Because of that, medium-sized vessels require both a starting and deep-cycle battery.
They have more significant power demands, creating the need for division of labor, with regard to the batteries. You'll seek for one for cranking the battery and a separate one for all other demands within the boat setup.
Large Boats or Yachts
Obviously, these are boats longer than 40 feet. Most large boats are yachts. Their huge energy demands stem from their large size, big engine, and several more complex auxiliary parts.
A large boat can have cabins, leisure dining spots, kitchens, and even decks for outdoor entertainment. Even devices like televisions, appliances like refrigerators, and unique navigational equipment are popular in large boats.
Such complexity in design and advanced features call for the installation of multiple power-sufficient batteries. In some cases, you may have to consider power banks as the supplemental power backup, discussed further below.
The Importance of Power Banks
Indeed, is a power bank necessary in all boat sizes? Truth be told, power banks are a crucial possession in your boat regardless of size. While small boats may not necessarily need one, your vessel being adrift due to a single battery failure should be the least of your on-water experiences.
Especially if you're planning to cruise for long hours nonstop, it's imperative to install a battery bank on your boat. It may not be connected to the boat's power system but placed on standby to chip in when the working batteries run out of power.
Why Are They Common in Large Boats?
Extremely large vessels often install bank batteries, as most go on long voyages offshore. The power banks provide reliable power for extended durations to keep the boat moving. Well, distance is not the only reason for power bank installation but also the complex systems in large watercraft.
Not to mention, most battery banks have a battery management system (BMS). This advanced technology enables the boat to draw equal charge from the multiple batteries, so none is overworked more than the other. As a result, the battery's life is extended, meaning you'll use your batteries for a longer time to meet the enormous power requirement.
Considering The Boat's Power Consumption
Prior to getting batteries for your boat, evaluate how much power your boat consumes over its period of use. When you ascertain the power consumption levels, you are better placed to quantify correctly the number and battery capacity suitable for your boat.
That leaves you wondering how to calculate the boat's power needs. Calculating the figures is easy, so breathe out and relax as we unravel how you do it.
But first, start by noting down the engine and other systems in the boat relying on electricity, such as the lights, radio, and refrigerator. Then, check their labels to record the power level, which is mostly denoted in Watts(W).
For each system listed, calculate their power consumption separately by using the formula:
Power Consumption (Wh) = Power (W) * Hours of operation per day (h)
For example, the refrigerator in your boat has a power rating of 300W, and you're to use it for 2 hours a day
Refrigerator’s Power Consumption = 300W * 5h = 1500 Wh
Do the same for every other electrical system and finally calculate the total power consumption by adding the figures for all the devices.
The total power consumption is exactly the boat's power consumption. Therefore, you should look for a boat battery with a power capacity that matches or is greater than the boat's power consumption to sail over the waters and reach back home safe and sound for days. Read the battery labels to see the battery's power capacity.
Alternative Power Sources: Solar Panels and Generators
While batteries are the most prevalent power sources for boats today, you can check for alternatives. In fact, renewable sources like solar energy are freely available, provide continuous energy, and reduce overreliance on batteries, which are depleted over time.
You can think of setting up a solar panel on your boat to generate and supply power as the boat moves. Not forgetting, we've seen advancements in wind and solar technologies across different spectrums. So, it's a great benefit to hop onto the bandwagon of environmental safety.
Generators are another choice, apart from solar panels. They can come in handy when batteries die out or as an additional source. Above all, ensure your boat has ample power with every power source available to you.
Conclusion: The Mariner's Battery Guide
In conclusion, a prudent sailor adequately prepares for their sails with thorough foresight. Right before travel, you should inspect the power sufficiency of the boat and pump up if what's existing is insufficient.
Choosing the correct number of batteries depends on the size of the boat and, particularly, the battery type. If multiple batteries are inevitable, top up with alternative sources like generators and solar panels to reduce the number. Of most importance is keeping your journey seamless and relishing the thrill that comes with it.
