sailboat solar arch

A modular system with a large array of accessories that clamp on or bolt on allowing you add or chaange equipment at any time.

Support large solar panel arrays, lift a center console tender and more.

A design that has been extensively tested in our shop and by the experience of sailors around the world.

, distance between forward legs and after legs is the same

Please call for information on specific yatch applications: certain customizable dimensions are possible at additional cost

Prices and specifications are subject to change, please call for current information.

Since the introduction of the “Tower in a Box” Sail Arch in 2009, A thousand plus sailors have cruised tens of thousands of miles, carrying solar panels, tenders, wind generators, and every other type of gear imaginable on their Sail Arch. Truly the “swiss army knife” of marine structures, Cruising Sailors have taken this high quality, highly flexible, easily adjustable structure and adapted to their personal yachts and their personal needs. Now in answer to requests for a “Tower in a Box” Sail Arch that is large enough for Cruising Catamarans and large Monohulls, here comes the SUPER SAIL ARCH. The Super Sail Arch can handle over 1000* pounds of equipment, solar panels, and tender with outboard when the load is properly installed and distributed..

Universal Arch Makes Installations on Hundreds of Other Makes and Models Possible

*Ultimate working weight capacity off the structure is dependent on many factors all of which are variable, including the installed beam dimension, strength of the mounting areas on the yacht, pre-load, distribution of weight across the structure. Please consult with us regarding intended usage if you have any question about capacity

Available Options:

How is the Arch shipped to me? Although the Arch is not heavy it is too large to go by UPS. We have discounted freight arrangements with several trucking companies, which cover all 48 states and Canada. We can also ship to Alaska, Hawaii and any overseas city, call us for details. The Arch is packed in a single large cardboard carton and normally ships to a commercial address

What happens if my Arch is damaged in shipping? Atlantic Towers wants you to enjoy your boat, not spend the season chasing a freight claim. If your Arch arrives damaged, just refuse the shipment and we will send you a new one at no additional cost to you.

Can I return my Arch if I decide I don’t want to keep it? Atlantic will accept the return of any Standard Structure within 30 days of it’s receipt by you. Simply return the Structure in the original packaging in new condition freight pre-paid and we will refund the purchase price less a 10% restocking fee

**NOTE: There is a 10% re-stocking charge for cancelled or returned merchandise**

Due to our dedication to continued product improvement, we reserve the right to make changes without notice.

Yacht Solar Panel Arch (Do This)

If you are wondering how to add solar power to your sailboat, look no further. Inside we walk you through Yacht solar panel arch options, and we give you a few more pieces of information that are essential to this project. 

A sailboat or yacht solar panel arch is an aftermarket add-on for your boat. In short, it is a metal arch frame that attaches to the stern of the boat, where you would then attach solar panels.

Solar accessories, such as batteries, solar regulators, and inverters become housed in a water-tight cabinet above or below deck. 

Note :   Because of the force of winds and the corrosive nature of saltwater, stainless steel is the best material to use to build an arch. 

In this blog, we discuss

• What a sailboat arch kit is
• Determining solar need
• What to look for in a DIY kit or Solar panel kit for your boat
• Shading and what that means for solar energy production
• We also share a few essential tips along the way

Sailboat Arch Kit 

You have two options when it comes to a yacht solar panel arch installation. You can go with a kit, or you can go the DIY route. 

What are you looking at in terms of components for a sailboat arch installation?

Some of the information below will change as the boat gets larger. Generally, you want:

• 3 X 185-250 watt — 24volt solar panels . You can go more extensive on the wattage if you need to power more gadgets. On larger boats, you might have the space to add a fourth panel. If this is a DIY project, be sure to note the physical size of the panels, as that will dictate how many you can install on the arch. 
• Charge Controller with enough input ports to handle the wires for each solar panel . If you use three panels, the controller will need three input ports. If you use four panels, the controller will need four input ports. An MPPT charge controller works well for this application. 
• An inverter that will handle charging smaller gadgets
• A Battery Storage System with enough amp-hours to cover your power needs
• An arch kit to attach the solar panels and other gear is good. Some arch kits include all the above components, and others are just the arch. 

To figure out the size of the sailboat solar panel kit you need, calculate the electrical usage for things like:

• Computer laptop, and cellular charging or usage
• Entertainment such as music and TV or DVD
• You may also need power for things like radar, communication, etc. 

Other considerations include seasonal fluctuations for incoming solar radiation and the location of the boat. It is better to have more energy than you need than not enough.

Storms, cloudy days, and other shading events can cause a drop in power production. Storms or clouds can last for several days.

Solar Arch Cost & Options

There is a range in pricing for solar panel kits for a sailboat. Many are in the $2,500 range. It is more important to shop based on what you need rather than solely on price. Larger kits can cost above $10,000. 

Sailboat and yacht builders may have options if you are going for a custom boat build. As you consider the cost of a solar arch, focus on:

• Aesthetically pleasing design – The arch should fit the general style of your boat, not be an obvious add-on to it. 
• Durable — Boats take a beating in storms, high winds, rough seas, and other natural elements. The arch must be able to hold the solar panels firmly without warping or breaking. 
• Functional — The function of the arch is to look nice and hold the solar panels in place. Stainless steel is a good option over other metals, including aluminum. 
• Sealed — Not always an option but having the arch sealed against weather and water is a good investment. 

See also:   Solar Panels on Boats (Are They Worth It?)

Options for Solar Arches 

Solar arches can hold a lot more than solar panels. You can look for options in kits or have them built into a custom or DIY project. Those include

• Radar Risers — These can be permanently attached to the arch or designed for easy removal as needed. 
• Radar Pole — a taller version of the radar risers
• Wind Generator Pole — when you want to harness the power of the wind and include solar energy too. These can be permanently installed or added as a removable option. 
• Antenna Riser or Pole — You can opt for an antenna pole or riser when you need more clearance for your antenna. These can also be removable. 
• Davit Extension Arms for hanging a dinghy

What Is the Best Solar Arch Kit?

Figuring out which is the best solar arch kit for your boat is difficult to say. The best solar arch kit will differ based on your solar energy needs and the type of boat you have.

Larger boats tend to need more energy than would a smaller boat. A sailboat might need more panels than a yacht because the sails and masts can cause a shading effect.

Shading means that less sunlight falls on the panels, which decreases energy production. 

Also, since we are discussing shading on a sailboat, you would likely want microinverters over string inverters.

The reason is that when you have a string inverter if one panel becomes shaded, it causes the total output of energy to drop for all panels.

With microinverters, a single shaded panel would cause the energy from that panel to drop, not from all panels. 

You could apply this also to a yacht. However, it would not be the sails or mast that causes shading; it would more likely be something blocking the sun while moored at a dock. 

In terms of what is best for your boat, look for:

• Aesthetics 
• Stainless Steel for strength
• Options for add-ons that fit your needs and lifestyle
• Functionality 
• Options — You may not need risers or poles, but you may need them in the future, and it is an excellent option to have that ability now rather than paying someone to install them later or replace the solar arch. 
• Warranties — be sure to compare warranties to see if there are differences. Some repairs may be covered by insurance, but they can be better and less expensive in the long run if a warranty covers them. 

These variables will change from one boat to the next, but they help make it a more informed decision when choosing a solar arch kit for a yacht or sailboat. 

• Other Applications – Department of Energy
• Sportsman Boats – South Carolina Energy Office – SC.GOV
• Design of Small Photovoltaic (PV) Solar-Powered Water Pump
• Planning a Home Solar Electric System | Department of Energy
• PVWatts Calculator
• Green Power Equivalency Calculator – US Environmental …

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SolVoltaics 1043 Garland Ave Unit C #737 San Jose, CA 95126

Solar Arches for sailboats

Our solar arches are based on a so-called parametric model. This means that the basic design is fixed, while still allowing us to adjust dimensions to meet the requirements of a specific boat. Below are some of the parameters we adjust to meet the requirements of a specific boat and wishes of the boat's owner: ​  

The width of the arch (1,5 m - 4,5 m) Suitable for most sailboats between 25 and 55 feet

The height of the arch (1,2 m - 2,5 m)

Forward legs offset, meaning how much you want the forward legs spread out to the sides, relative to the aft legs

Height of horizontal cross-tubes

Length of and distance between davits  

Product specs

Polished corrosion reistant stainless steel, AISI 316, 40 mm diameter, 2 mm material thickness.

Polished corrosion resistant stainless steel, AISI 316, circular, 10 mm thickness, 100 mm diameter, three bolt holes.

Hollow, which allows for cabling inside tubes and all the way down through the deck.

Backing plates

Corrosion resistant stainless steel, AISI 316, circular, 100 mm diameter, three bolt holes to match holes in the feet.

Stainless steel, polished, 40 mm diameter tubes, 2 mm thickness

Large hole in the center for running cables

5,900 EUR  incl. VAT* *Base solar arch only Full support during installation

Lasercut AISI 316 Stainless Steel

The tubes for the solar arch are cut from high quality AISI 316 stainless steel tubes using precision laser cutting machines.

We will keep you updated

3d model .

Before your arch is even built you will be able to see a 3D model of it. Not a generic model, but YOUR solar arch with your specifications and measurements.

Weekly updates

As a valued customer we are committed to keep you updated about your purchase. We will send you weekly updates via e-mail, as your solar arch progresses though the production steps.

If you have any questions or concerns, you are always welcome to contact us directly. Either via e-mail, phone or text messages. You can find all of our contact details here

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Adding Solar Power to a Sailboat

• By Emily Fagan
• Updated: October 18, 2019

During our nearly four-year cruise of Mexico, my husband, Mark, and I lived almost exclusively on 555 watts of solar power charging a 640-amp-hour house battery bank. We anchored out virtually every night aboard our 2008 Hunter 44DS, Groovy , and relied on the sun for power. During one 10-week stretch, while we waited for a replacement engine alternator to arrive, our boat’s solar panels were our sole source of power. We had no backup charging system to turn to, and yet we lived and sailed comfortably the entire time. Mounting solar panels on a sailboat was not difficult, but a few key decisions made a huge difference in how effective our panels were.

A solar-power installation on a sailboat is made up of two independent systems: one system to charge the batteries, and another system to provide 120-volt AC power for household appliances. In the charging system, the solar panels convert sunlight into electrical current and deliver it to the batteries via a solar charge controller. Similar to a voltage regulator, the charge controller acts as a gatekeeper to protect the batteries from receiving more current than they need as they are being charged. In the AC power system, an inverter or inverter/charger converts the 12-volt DC power in the battery into 120 volts AC whenever it is turned on.

Panel Positioning and Wiring Considerations

One of the biggest challenges for sailors installing solar power on a sailboat is finding a place on the boat where the panels will be shaded as little as possible. Just a few square inches of shade on one panel can render that panel all but inoperable. Unfortunately, between the mast, radome, spreaders and boom, shadows cross the deck all day long, especially as the boat swings back and forth at anchor.

What’s worse, if the panels are wired in series rather than in parallel, this little bit of shade can shut down the entire solar-panel array. When we installed solar power on Groovy , we had already lived exclusively on solar power in an RV for over two years. Our RV solar panels had been wired in series, and we had witnessed the array shutting down current production when just half of one panel was shaded.

Choosing whether to wire the panels in series or parallel on a boat affects the wire gauge required, which is why many solar-power installers lean toward wiring the panels in series. Panels wired in series can be wired all the way to the solar charge controller with a thinner-gauge wire than those wired in parallel. This is because the voltage of panels wired in series is additive, while the current remains constant, so the current flowing is just that of a single panel. In contrast, the current flowing from panels that are wired in parallel is additive, while the voltage across them is not. This means that in a parallel installation, the current going to the charge controller is several times higher and requires much thicker cable to avoid any voltage loss over the length of the wire.

Not only is thinner-gauge wire less expensive, but it is also more supple and easier to work with, making the job of snaking it in and around various crevices in the boat and connecting it to the solar charge controller much less of a struggle. Thus the choice between series and parallel wiring boils down to a trade-off between system performance, expense and ease of solar system installation.

Luckily, the size of the wire can be reduced if higher-­voltage solar panels are chosen. Since watts are determined by multiplying volts by amps, a higher-voltage panel that generates the same watts as a lower-voltage panel will produce less current. Therefore, selecting nominal 24-volt panels instead of 12-volt panels allows for the use of thinner wire sizes no matter how they are wired.

Our Marine Solar Panel Design Choices

In our installation, we decided to mount three 185-watt, 24-volt (nominal) Kyocera solar panels high above the cockpit, well aft of the boom, as far away as possible from potential shade. Our Hunter came with a big, solid stainless-steel arch, and we turned to Alejandro Ulloa, a brilliant metal fabricator at Baja Naval Boatyard in Ensenada, Mexico, to build a polished stainless-steel solar-panel arch extension onto the existing structure. He designed the arch extension with integrated telescoping davits to hoist our dinghy as well as support the solar panels. These davits were strong enough — and the lines and blocks had enough purchase — that either of us could lift our light Porta-Bote dinghy with its 6-horsepower outboard without a winch.

We spaced the panels about a half-inch apart and wired them in parallel. Using two twin-lead wires, we snaked the three positive leads and one common ground down through the inside of the arch tubes so they wouldn’t be visible, and placed wire loom over the exposed wires under the panels.

The junction points for the three parallel panels were on positive and negative bus bars inside a combiner box, all mounted in a cockpit lazarette. Inside the combiner box, we installed three breakers, one for each panel. This gave us the ability to shut off any or all of the panels if we needed to (we never did).

We mounted a Xantrex solar charge controller (model XW MPPT 60-150) in a hanging locker, as close to the batteries as possible, in a spot where it was easy to monitor and program. We ran twin-lead wire from the combiner box to the charge controller and from there to the batteries.

Our boat came with three new 12-volt Mastervolt 4D AGM house batteries, all wired in parallel, for a total of 480 amp-hours of capacity. We wanted a bigger house battery bank, and because it is best for the age, type and size of the batteries to be matched, we added a fourth new Mastervolt 4D AGM house battery, which brought our total to 640 amp-hours. Our batteries were installed at the lowest point in the hull, below the floorboards, and they ran the length of the saloon, from just forward of the companionway stairs to just aft of the V-berth stateroom door.

The best way to charge a bank of batteries that are wired in parallel is to span the entire battery bank with the leads coming from the charge controller. We did this by connecting the positive lead from the charge controller to the positive terminal of the first battery in the bank, and the negative lead from the charge controller to the negative terminal of the last battery. By spanning the entire bank, the batteries were charged equally rather than having the charging current focused on just the first battery in the bank.

We feel that AGM batteries are superior to wet cell (flooded) batteries because they can be installed in any orientation, don’t require maintenance, can’t spill (even in a capsize), and charge more quickly. Our Mastervolt batteries, like almost all AGM batteries on the market, are dual-purpose, combining the very different characteristics of both deep-cycle and start batteries. Our batteries work well, but if we were doing an installation from scratch today, we would consider the new Trojan Reliant AGM batteries. These batteries are engineered strictly for deep-cycle use and have been optimized to provide consistent current and maximize battery life.

Our boat came with a Xantrex Freedom 2,500-watt inverter/charger wired into the boat’s AC wiring system with a transfer switch. The inverter/charger performed two functions. While the boat was disconnected from shore power, it converted the batteries’ 12-volt DC power into 120-volt AC power, allowing us to operate 120-volt appliances, like our microwave. When the boat was connected to shore power, it charged the batteries.

Because this inverter/charger was a modified-sine-wave inverter, mimicking AC ­current with a stair-stepped square wave, we also had a 600-watt pure-sine-wave inverter to power our potentially more sensitive electronic devices. We chose Exeltech because its inverters produce an electrical signal that is clean enough to power medical equipment, and they are NASA’s choice for both the Russian and American sides of the International Space Station. For simplicity, rather than wiring the inverter into the cabin’s AC wiring, we plugged ordinary household power strips into the AC outlets on the inverter and plugged our appliances into the power strips. Like the charge controller, the inverter must be located as close to the batteries as possible. Ours was under a settee.

Shade’s Impact on Sailboat Solar Panels

Once our solar installation was completed on our sailboat, we closely observed the effects of shade on our solar-panel array. We were often anchored in an orientation that put the panels in full sun. Just as often, however, we were angled in such a way that shade from the mast and boom covered portions of our panels. It was fascinating to monitor the solar charge controller’s LCD display whenever the sun was forward of the beam — the current from the panels to the batteries fluctuated up and down as we swung at anchor.

Taking notes one morning, we noticed that the charging current was repeatedly creeping up and down between 9.5 and 24.5 amps as the boat moved to and fro. When the entire solar-panel array was in full sun, it generated 24.5 amps of current. When we moved so the mast shaded a portion of one panel, the array generated 15 amps. When it shaded portions of two panels and only one was in full sun, the array produced just 9.5 amps. Of course, it would have been preferable to see a steady 24.5 amps all morning, but this sure beat watching the current drop to zero whenever a shadow crossed a panel.

We discovered that shade makes a huge impact while sailing, too. Surprisingly, it is far worse to have the panels shaded by the sails than to have the panels in full sun but tilted away from its direct rays. One afternoon, we noticed that while we were on a tack that tilted the panels away from the sun, they generated 24.5 amps of current, whereas on a tack where the panels were tilted toward the sun but two of the three were partially shaded by the sails, the current dropped to a mere 10 amps.

Reflections On Our Solar Panel Installation

A wonderful and surprising side benefit of our large solar panels and arch system was that the setup created fabulous shade over the jumpseats at the stern end of the cockpit. Our metal fabricator, Alejandro, placed a support strut at hand-holding height, and sitting in those seats feels secure and comfortable while sailing, no matter the conditions.

After living on solar power for eight years of cruising and land-yacht travel, we’ve learned that you can never have too much solar power. Groovy’s 555 watts was enough to run all our household appliances as needed, including our nearly 4-cubic-foot DC refrigerator, two laptops, a TV/DVD player, and lights at night. However, it was not quite enough power to run all that plus our stand-alone 2.5-cubic-foot DC freezer during the short days and low sun angles of the winter months without supplemental charging from the engine alternator every few days. For the 10 weeks that we did not have a functioning alternator, our solution was to turn off the freezer, which enabled our batteries to reach full charge every afternoon.

Solar power made a world of difference in our cruise. Not only did it allow us to live comfortably and with ample electricity for weeks on end when our engine alternator went on the blink, but as a “set-it-and-forget-it” system, it also gave us the freedom to anchor out for as long as we wished without worrying about the batteries. In our eyes, the solar-panel arch enhanced the beauty and lines of our boat, giving her a sleek and clean appearance. It was true icing on the cake to discover that the panels and arch system also provided much-needed shade over the cockpit and helm from the hot tropical sunshine. If you are preparing for a cruise, consider turning to the sun for electricity and outfitting your sailboat with solar power.

The Installation:

Emily and Mark Fagan offer cruising tips and share their stories and photos on their website, roadslesstraveled.us . They are currently enjoying a land cruise across America aboard an RV.

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Sailboat Solar Systems and How-To

Solar on a sailboat goes together like hands and gloves, but sailboat solar systems can be installed in a variety of ways. The solar components themselves create an infinite combination of possibilities for off-grid sailing. Victron Energy chargers, Renogy Panels, Sunpower Yachts, BlueSea Systems, and many more brands have entered the marketplace, and that’s not including the lithium battery companies.

To simplify things, we’ve compiled three sailboat solar systems videos to give you an overview of what’s possible. And to help you decide on your own simple solar panel setup for sailing.

How-To Install Solar Panels on Your Sailboat

This system from Zingaro shows flexible panels summing 300w of power on a 38′ catamaran.

300W Solar System:

• Three 100w solar flexible panels
• 1 MPPT Solar charger controller

View on Amazon >>

100W HQST Flexible Solar Panels $100-$200

20amp Solar Charge Controller by Victron Energy $150-$200

Simple Sunpower Solar System

This simple solar system from The Fosters shows a quick and easy setup with limited space on top of a bimini.

Sunpower Solar Panels are considered by most in the industry as the gold standard. They use the highest-efficiency solar cells and have top-notch build quality. In this simple installation, three 50w panels are just enough to get you started. Plus, it’s the most affordable installation!

150w Starter Solar System

• Three 50w Flexible Solar Panels
• A Single 15amp solar charge controller

50W Sunpower Solar Panels $150-$200

75v/15amp Solar Charge Controller by Victron Energy $100-$124

Off-Grid on a DIY Solar Powered Sailboat

Here’s a special installation that turned a derelict sailboat into an off-grid sailing machine!

Simon has transformed this derelict sailboat into an epic off-grid solar-powered and fossil-fuel-free cruising catamaran. He’s been living aboard and renovating the boat for the past 3.5 years We’re excited to show you the transformation as well as how he plans to propel the boat without the use of diesel or fossil fuels!

5280w Solar System for Electric Powered Catamaran

• 16 Rigid solar panels (330w each)
• 20kwh of Lithium Batteries

240W Rigid Solar Panels $250-$300

200AH Lithium 4d Battery $1200-$1200

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Top 3 Best Solar Panels For Sailboats

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

June 15, 2022

Choosing whether or not to install solar panels on your sailboat is a big decision. They are not exactly cheap, though they can start to pay themselves off pretty quickly.

This article is going to cover not only why you might want to use solar panels but all the benefits they provide. You will also find a helpful guide on which solar panels would be best for you and your budget. Hopefully, by the end, you will feel confident in your decision to install solar panels on your sailboat and even have an idea of which ones you might like.

Table of contents

Are solar panels on sailboats necessary?

Whether or not you should be installing solar panels on your boat is a matter of choice, not out of necessity. Sailboats get their power from the wind, by harnassing it in their sail. So if you plan to be sailing for the afternoon you probably don’t need solar panels.

You could charge a battery pack from the marina and that will probably see you through several trips. The problems only really start to arise if you are planning to be on your sailboat for longer periods, or even permanently. If you plan to live on your sailboat year-round, even if you spend 80% of it in a marina, you would be better off with some solar panels. Even if it is just as a backup source of power.

Are solar panels on boats safe?

Solar panels are generally pretty safe. They have no moving parts and typically have a very strong protective cover over them so you never come in contact with the electrics themself. So, as a source of power, they are generally pretty safe. The only time they may become unsafe is if they are badly damaged.

Solar panels are often covered by glass plating that keeps them safe. It also helps them absorb sunlight and warmth. This is great, except when the glass breaks. If the glass protective cover on your solar panels should crack and splinter you are at risk of serious injury from sharp shards of glass. Not only is the glass itself dangerous at this point, so are the electronic components inside. They have powerful currents running through them, and if you come in contact with them you may be in for a shock.

Furthermore, if these electronics get wet they can become deadly. Electricity and water do not mix well at all. Being as you are on a sailboat, at sea, the chances of them getting wet is very high. Luckily, the chances of them breaking in the first place are slim to none. The only real way they would break, besides vandalism, is by debris hitting them during a bad storm. There is not often debris at sea, so this shouldn’t be too much of a problem.

What are the benefits of having solar panels on a sailboat?

There are so many great benefits of having solar panels on a sailboat. They can be a lifesaver if you find yourself at sea for a long time. There benefits range from trivial comforts to being the difference between life and death. Here are some of the benefits you might not have considered about having solar panels installed on your sailboat.

Money-saving

Solar panels are not cheap, it is far cheaper to just run a generator or charge your batteries from the marina the whole time. At least, it is in the short term. Over time, it can start to become very expensive. With solar panels, you are looking at a big initial cost (the solar panels themself) and then it’s smooth sailing. You don’t need to pay for power again. Solar panels last for about 40 years before they start to become too inefficient at producing power. The cost of a few solar panels upfront compared to 40 years of marina fees and gasoline for a generator is the financially savvy move.

Emergency power

If you find yourself at sea, the wind dies down (or becomes too strong), and you find yourself stuck bobbing around waiting for more favorable conditions you may run into trouble. Depending on how long you are out there, you may find yourself with dead electronics. Be it a satellite phone, radio, or secondary engine (depending on the boat). Having a set of solar panels and a power bank can be a genuine lifesaver in these situations.

Comfort amenities

Whether you are day sailing or making a week-long voyage, having access to the comforts in life can make the whole journey so much more enjoyable. The amenities may not be available to you without having a constant source of power at sea. Having access to a kettle, tv, videogame system, radio or microwave oven may be the only thing keeping you going at rougher times. As exciting as sailing can be, when you aren’t sailing and are just bobbing around it can be quite dull. The sea is beautiful, but there is only so much time you can spend looking at the water before you miss the comforts of land. With solar panels, you can bring those comforts with you.

Eco-friendly

There are only two alternatives to solar panels. A gasoline generator, and taking power from the grid. Neither of these is good for the environment. Luckily, solar panels are a great third option. Solar panels are completely eco-friendly and are great for the environment. This is not just great for the earth, and your conscience, but for the journey itself. If you are running a gasoline generator at sea you are going to be listening to it thrumming away and smell the burning gasoline. Wouldnt you prefer silence and nothing but the smell of the sea breeze?

How much do solar panels cost?

How much solar panels cost is almost entirely tied into both their voltage/wattage and whether or not they are portable panels. Portable solar panels are great for people who don’t spend a lot of time on their boat or are happy enough living off the marina’s power grid. Permanent solar panels, the kind that may need to professionally installed, can end up costing far more. They are also likely to be far superior and you can pretty much forget about them once they are installed.

Portable solar panels will cost just a few hundred dollars each. You will need a few to be sustainable, but that’s not going to be much of a problem. These portable solar panels can just be rolled out on the deck of your boat, weighed down, and then hooked up to a battery pack. The battery itself here is going to be the most expensive part of the whole set up. A decent-sized battery could set you back a $1000. But, when charged fully it will last days. Even with constant use.

Permanently installed solar panels can cost one or two thousand dollars in some cases. The advantage here though is once they are installed that’s it, you can forget about them. You don’t have to put them up, take them down, and find somewhere to stow them every time they need using. They too will need to be hooked up to a battery, the battery is still only going to cost you $1000. If you are installing permanent solar panels because you plan to be making long voyages, it is ideal to have two or perhaps even three large batteries hooked up to your boat. One to run off, one or two for emergencies.

How do I maintain my solar panels?

Solar panels, unlike gasoline generators, are generally pretty easy to maintain. They have no moving parts and are thus pretty self-sufficient. They don’t need taking apart and they last as long as 40 years. That being said, if they do break they need repairing as soon as possible. The exposed electrics can be deadly when water is thrown into the mix. Which, on a boat, is almost always. The glass cover will need replacing and the electronics inside may need repairing, though not always. Don’t ever attempt to do this yourself unless you are experienced at making these repairs. The cost of hiring someone to do it for you is preferable to being dead. Solar panels have very powerful electric currents, that when in contact with water and yourself can be fatal. As mentioned above, these panels rarely break so you will likely not ever run into this problem. If you do, hire a contractor.

Do my solar panels need cleaning?

Solar panels work by converting the light and heat of the sun into useable power. The process itself is rather complicated but the results are simple to understand. That being said, there are some reasons that your solar panels will stop working as effectively. They all revolve around a lack of sunlight. It could be because it is night time. It could be because it is very cloudy. Or, it could be because they are dirty. If solar panels become too dusty, dirty, and become too covered in grime they stop operating at maximum efficiency. This is not as much of a problem at sea, the sea spray stops dust settling. The biggest thing you will need to clean off your solar panels is salt build-up and slime. This is easy enough to do with some warm soapy water. Freshwater, not seawater. You want to be removing as much salt as possible. Salt is corrosive to electronics, so removing it is important. Never clean your solar panels using pressure washers as they can crack the glass.

Which are the best solar panels for sailing?

There are so many options on the market at various price points. Here are three very different options that will all make good choices, depending on your needs. It is important to consider not just price but power output. Spending a lot of money on solar panels now might not feel ideal, but it is the most cost-effective decision.

1. Renogy Starter Kit

This starter kit is going to be perfect for installing on almost any sized boat. There are four solar panels, each can be fitted permanently to the boat. They can be mounted (and unmounted) easily, for your convenience. They do require a flat surface, but they are small enough that that likely won’t be too much of a problem. This starter kit is very middle of the pack price-wise but should provide enough power for a small to medium-sized vessel easily. It is also possible to buy extra panels individually should you need them.

Wattage: 400/4 (100 per panel)

2. Nature Power Rigid

The nature power rigid is a large, powerful, single solar panel. If you are looking for the right panels to power your entire boat comfortably, these are the ones for you. They are very large so they will need a large flat surface area. alternatively, they can be hung vertically from rails. This is an inefficient way of using them, so you would need to buy more this way. Nature power makes various solar panels so you could find some smaller ones of the same brand to supplement it. This one is not so easy to install, you might need to hire someone to install it for you.

Wattage: 165

3. Nature Power Monocrystalline

Nature power makes a portable solar panel that fits inside a special briefcase. It is perfect for stowing away easily and only taking it out when it is needed. It is decently powerful considering its portable, but there is the inconvenience factor of having to set it up each time. If you planned to buy the nature power rigid, buying one of these portable panels might be ideal for supplementing your power supply when it is especially sunny. Though, it may be cheaper for you to just fit more of the Nature Power Rigids.

Wattage: 120

Hopefully, you now have a good idea about whether solar panels would be right for you and your sailboat. Sailing is great, but the lack of power at sea can be dreadfully boring. Luckily, there are so many great options available on the market. Not just the ones mentioned above. Buying a solar panel is an investment, the initial cost is minor compared to the steady return from all the savings you will make.

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Free Shipping

On All Arches Shipped in the Lower 48

Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm CST

1.888.675.6850

Uni Fishing Boat Arch

$ 1,449.00

In Stock! Free Shipping U.S. Lower 48

Read the description below to understand what is included in the base package.

Arch width and mount style selection, * approximate mounting width in inches, * mount type.

4 standard mounts are included in the base package.  If you think none of these will work with your boat, select "Other" in the drop-down menu and a sales associate will contact you to determine which alternative mount is needed for your boat.

• Standard Side Mount Side Mount Narrow Standard Deck Mount Deck Mount Narrow Other (Fish On Sports will contact you)

Arch Extras (In Addition to Standard Package Included)

Upgrade to captains package (description below).

• No Yes +$479.00 If you add the captains package, anything you selected above will be in addition to the items included in the Captain's Package.

Additional Bolt On Rod Holders Part #107

• No Yes, 1 More Yes, 2 More Yes, 3 More Yes, 4 More Yes, 5 More Yes, 6 More Yes, 7 More

Additional Light Brackets (2 Brackets Per Set) Part #100-13

• No Yes, 1 Set Yes, 2 Sets

Additional Net Holder Part #109

• No Yes, 1 Net Holder Yes, 2 Net Holders

Add Radar Pad

• No Flat Mounting Pad Mounting Pad w/ 8" Tall Stanchion

Description

Additional information.

• Reviews (46)
• The Uni Fishing Boat Arch can be ordered from 36″ to 136″ wide with +/- 3″ of adjustment.
• 59″ Tall (from mounting point to the underside of the arch) and can be trimmed as much as 15″ shorter.
• Very strong and versatile unit, built from 2″ diameter, schedule 40, anodized (external and internal surfaces) aluminum tube.
• (4) backing plates
• (4) mounting shims
• (4 sets) break away mounting hardware
• (4) bolt-on adjustable rod holders
• You can add additional bolt-on rod holders and other accessories can be added to your order or purchased and installed at a later date.
• The Uni Arch weighs roughly 80 lbs but will vary slightly based on the width that has been specified.
• The arches are designed with hollow tubing and connectors allowing you to run and hide wires internally .
• Deck Mount Round
• Deck Mount Narrow
• Side Mount Round
• Side Mount Narrow
• If you think you need something else, select another and a sales representative will contact you. Please refer to the photos while selecting.
• All arches are designed to fold down in a matter of minutes by removing two bolts (front or back mounts), loosening the other two, and lowering it.
• If you have any questions, please feel free to call 1-888-675-6850 for assistance.
• Proudly made in Toledo, OH.
• 5-Year Warranty Standard

Great Value – Silver Captain’s Package

Consider Upgrading to the Silver Captain’s Package which provides additional accessories at an unbelievable price. 4 – Additional Bolt on Rod Holders Part# 107 1 – Light Bracket Set (Lights Sold Separately) Part # 100-13 2 – Quick Swivel Rod Holders Part# 180 1 – Net Holder Part# 109 This is a $600.00 value that you can purchase with your arch for only $479.00.  This offer is only available with the purchase a new arch.  You save $123.00 representing a 20% discount.  You also save on freight because it ships free with the arch.

If you are wondering about the installation process, download the Installation Instructions PDF below.  Our arches have been installed by thousands of people on their own boats.  If you end up having questions along the way, call us and we’ll be there to help.

Fishonsports | Perrysburg OH | Facebook

#140  Installation Instructions

46 reviews for Uni Fishing Boat Arch

Ronald Smith – September 13, 2013

I was blown away when I first got the arch. It was way better than I was expecting. Anyone in need of an radar arch this is the place to buy one. Looks and works great on my Trophey.

A very happy customer

Todd Crisp – September 16, 2013

If you are in need of a radar arch, this is the one! Great Quality! Easy to assemble and install! Works Perfectly on my 2460 Pusuit Denali. 2 years in Florida weather and no issues to report.

Larry – September 16, 2013

Love the arch and the look. The only fail is the net holder. The small indents that allow for the adjustment of angle are just that- too small. One trip on the West Coast and they had worn down no matter how tight I had the screws set. Now they’re worn off. Looks like it’s JB Weld time to see if that will hold them.

Ethan Derby – September 16, 2013

Well built, very reasonable cost with Captain Package.

Installation can be a bit tricky depending on mounting location. This is the only reason not giving 5stars Requires 2 people minimum to install.

Still would purchase again.

Thanks for a great product FishOnSports!!!

Paul Pangrazzi – September 16, 2013

I needed an arch durable enough to fix lifelines, hold a solar panel, support a mast crutch for my sailboat, and various other odds and ends. The aluminum has a great finish and was easy to cut for my own customizations (as expected.) All supplied hardware is stainless steel and inspires confidence.

Everything was packed securely, protected by gobs of bubble-wrap and foam, shipping was quick, and the price simply can’t be beat. I can’t say enough good things about this product and company.

Troy Carter – September 16, 2013

the quality construction of the tower is very good. Only problem we ran into was mounting around our canvas, which was really no big deal at all. Very solid unit, and WAY better value than anything else on the market.

Anthony Roy – September 16, 2013

Good product, fairly easy to install, well constructed. Only downside is that one set of the pre-tapped holes on the corner pieces was drilled out but not tapped. Had to break the tap and die set and tap those holes personally. This also applied to one of the rod holders – holes drilled but no threads. No big issue if you are comfortable tapping threads into a hole, but if not this would have prevented installation. With this one caveat, materials, fit and finish were all excellent.

James Palmer – September 16, 2013

I installed this on my deep V fishing boat to organize my boat more. This is a great product.. Very heavy built and I am one to demand quality. Thank you fish-on

larry eidsvaag – September 16, 2013

Great value, easy to install, sturdy and great looking. Got many complements and saved over a thousand dolllar.

Stan E. Indyk – September 16, 2013

This is a great addition on my V-18 Tracker for Lake Erie walleye fishing. Good solid construction can handle the whatever the lake throws at us. Very functional for for stacking rod holders on the sides while trolling with planer boards. It’s an all around great mounting arch for radar , lights and rod holders.

Bill Gillespie – September 16, 2013

I did a lot of research before purchasing the Un-Arch. Ordering was smooth, and the arch arrived well packaged. Assembly went good overall, with the toughest part being supporting the arch while drilling the mounting holes…have a helper for this part.

The arch has been mounted for the last two season on my 20′ Boulton Sea Skiff. It was purchased primarily as a location to mount a radar dome and deck lights. It has worked well for this use, and I use it also while fishing to place spare rods, a net, and gaff. It has served well and stood up to use on the Pacific from Northern California.

My only recommendation for improvement of the arch would be to make the two rectangular cross supports in the top slightly wider to allow installation of a fold down stainless VHF antenna mount.

My only regret with the arch is that the Captain’s Package Uni-Arch wasn’t being produced when I purchased!

Doug McKenzie – September 17, 2013

Very pleased with my purchase . Quick reliable production and shipping the adjustability really makes this arch a no brainer, custom to everyone’s boat.

Kent Dickinson – September 19, 2013

Put this arch on my 2008 thunderjet Luxor 20 Foyt boat.The easy install was great !The quality was even better!Would recommend this arch to all!Keep up the great products!

Chris Klein – September 23, 2013

Excellent product. Installation took half a day, would have been less if I had not been alone. Works great, one fishing season nearly over with absolutely no complaints.

Kurt – October 19, 2013

I really like my Fishon Sports radar arch. The reason I wanted one is it gave me a great start to building a hard top for my 2102 Trophy. It was well made and straight forward to install , My wife and I did a 840 mile trip this summer along the British Columbia north coast in all kinds of water and it did it its job well. We boat out of Prince Rupert B.C. Canada. Thanks for a great product.

Max – October 19, 2013

Here are some pics with my new boat and the radar arch that I purchased from Fish on Sports this past winter.

Great job guys,

Eddie – October 19, 2013

This arch is an amazing product. Going to add some more rod holders over the winter. Always checking out your new products getting ideas. We really appreciate your product as well as the superior craftsmanship.

Michael – October 19, 2013

I love the arch and get plenty of compliments on how good it looks.

Jack – October 19, 2013

HI JIM HERE ARE A FEW PICTURES OF MY INSTALLATION LAST YEAR OF YOUR ARCH. I COMPLETED THE INSTALLATION MYSELF IN ONE DAY. IT IS MOUNTED ON A 1991 21′ SEA PRO 203C

Ron Casscles – November 22, 2013

This unit is way above anything I expected. It fit perfectly on my 20′ Wooldridge, all parts and pieces were shipped VERY fast and all shrink bubble wrapped. These folks are a class act and great to deal with.

Eddie Kostecki Stihl Reelin Sportfishing – February 23, 2014

Very Nice quality arch. Now have places for ten rods and have also mounted planer board reels on it. Have plans for LED lights and a few more rod holders. Thank you for a great addition to my boat.

Joe Dovala – April 22, 2014

I don’t fish – there I said it! The 2 rod holders are for dive flag and camera bag. I’m an underwater photographer and my 24ft RIB is my “work truck.” I’ve been wanting an arch for some time but the expense never penciled out until now. Very nicely made and quite adaptable. I would recommend Fishonsports to do business with over the net. Very pleased. Next purchase a radar!

Dan molyneux – May 13, 2014

Great product well constructed good instructions easy to assemble would buy from them again.

James Thompson – July 15, 2014

Great product 5 hrs to install solo would recommend to anyone. Looks good on my 22nd sea pro way to go!!!

J.C. Sandford – September 8, 2014

Great product at ANY price. Easy installation. Modifies easily if necessary. Fast delivery. Even BETTER than illustrated. If there are any questions, you talk directly to the person who makes the product. I am extremely satisfied.

John Rybaczyk – January 12, 2015

The Uni-Arch was delivered quickly and was simple to assemble. Once installed using the deck mounts the Uni-Arch was rigid and did not have sway from side to side. No additional supports were necessary. Using additional the radar mount worked great when mounting the Garmin 18 HD radardome. Also your Customer support was very helpful. Thanks Fishonsports!

John Elliott – February 21, 2015

The product is great. The thickness and weight of the piping and fittings are professional grade, The structure adjusts well and can easily be lowered and raised with a rope/pulley by 1 person. You must also order the mounting shims for tight fit on the sidewall of boat and this also helps with any clearances when raising and lowering the arch. My install was easy a 1 person job about 3 hours. Finding the best mounting location took 6 hours and 2 people and I really should of had a third person so that I could of found the best mounting location and height. Location, Location, Location & HEIGHT is what matters. I ran into issues with the boats internal cross frames, vent opening, shore power receptacle and clearances for my Bimini top which forced me to adjust install higher than I wanted. That’s just the way it is. Overall the product is excellent and I will be trolling Rocks and Blues when the weather gets warmer, can’t wait.

Thanks John Fairfax, Va. – Chesapeake Bay MD.

Dan – March 21, 2015

The tower is outstanding! It arrived at my boatworks and my guys had no problem installing it. Well worth the price! Thanks, Fish On Sports! 3XL please!

Mitchell – September 8, 2015

Attached are 2 pictures of my arch that I installed on my 1985 Hunter 28.5 sailboat. I have a 150 watt solar panel attached on top. The arch was easy to install and very well constructed. You have a top quality product and the shipping is very fast.

Captain Sam Soranno – October 5, 2015

The Uni-Arch was very easy to install on our Cruisers Inc, VillaVee 298 Flybridge. Very solid construction yet very affordable. I am an Engineer and Fabricator and was going to fabricate my own arch. The Uni-Arch met all of my requirements especially cost. The rig is now ready for the spring charter season.

Adam – October 27, 2015

Raider Pro Sport 192. Not exactly designed to be rod arch friendly but with the machined mounts from Fish On Sports it went together very nice. I can modify my side curtains for a little better fit in the Spring but for now I am fishing with this very well engineered rod arch. I have already had many compliments but most importantly I no longer worry about the wife getting a hook in her now that the rods are high and tight. Great product and priced very well for what you get!

Joseph B Weber – February 6, 2016

Excellent construction, first rate. I put it to the test over the last Salmon fishing season at Westport Wa.

We got into some Real ROUGH waters REAL Quick, with the Arch Stand Offs installed to help support. The UNI-Arch held up to my 260lb brother grabbing on for dear life during some really big waves! it looks good on my 95 20′ Bayliner Trophy. I wasn’t sure at first, looked at all the pictures hem and hawed for a few months, then went for it. The package was delivered a few days before they said it would be….bonus..it was delivered on a Thursday, instead of Monday…Awesome….I had something other then mowing the lawn to do……The installation took most of the day. it took me awhile and a few beers to figure out where I wanted it….so I used the rafters in the boat shed to hold it up for placement and alignment before I drilled….

It looks amazing on the water with a new Radar to top it off. I put flood lights on it, I am able see what I’m doing on deck Navigation at night!

No more head lamps and flash lights! I am happy with the UNI-Arch. So will you.

Ralph Prather – March 29, 2016

The quality, fit and finish are absolutely superb!

Ron – April 27, 2016

I absolutely love the arch . Excellent quality, easy to install and exceeded my expectations by far. Thanks for the excellent customer service and great product!! Attached are 2 pictures of it installed on the boat and 1 of it doing its job keeping all the other rods out of the way while my 2 sons fight a 40″ Rockfish. Can’t wait to get my hat and t-shirt (XL) I am a huge fan and will recommend you product to everyone!

Neal Maraia – April 29, 2016

Very happy! Delivery was prompt and great customer service. Reminds me of how business used to be before the corporations took over America! Already got 7, 36″-43″ Striped Bass in the two weeks I’ve had it, which is more than I got in the four years prior combined trolling during Spring Trophy season in the Chesapeake Bay!

Dan Fish – May 12, 2016

Great product. Very strong and great craftsmanship.

Jeff Lord – May 24, 2016

Very easy to install, sturdy construction, and looks great. Exactly what we were looking for. Wouldn’t go anywhere else.

Mike W – September 13, 2016

I’m totally impressed on the quality of the product and the price The installation went actually better than I had expected you do need 2 people for proper fitting after that 1 person can finish The arch looks great and I’m amazed at the quick shipping and excellent packaging Thanks Mike W Sweat shirt xl

Michael Wehlus – September 20, 2016

I’m totally impressed on the quality of the product and the price The installation went actually better than I had expected you do need 2 people for proper fitting after that 1 person can finish The arch looks great and I’m amazed at the quick shipping and excellent packaging Thanks

Rod McCrae – October 2, 2016

Thanks for a heavy duty product that is produced with excellent workmanship.

Garry Rosier – February 17, 2017

The Fish-On-Sports Uni-Arch is a terrific product with many available options. I install the Arch on my 36 foot sailboat to support 2 large solar panels, and to carry our dinghy on davits. The arch is strong, looks great, and very functional with light brackets, antenna mounts, radar mount, and dinghy davits. All this and the cost was a fraction of a custom built tower. I am a very happy customer and a fan of Fish-On-Sports products.

Forest – May 23, 2017

Just wanted to say that this was probably one of the best online experiences ive had…i wasnt sure on what tower was right for my boat , with the bimini etc….i called the number on the site and a gentleman walked me through the options and was familiar with my boat so he knew what was right and I followed directions and its awesome!!!! Great company and product….welds on tower wer all solid and well done, and i recieved everything i ordered!!!!! 5 stars

Eddie – June 7, 2017

Wanted to say thanks for a great product. I was finally able to install the arch and put the boat in after restoring for over a year. She’s not finished yet but she looks good with the uni arch and runs good.

Sideny – June 7, 2017

Thank You from Edmonton Alberta Canada a very happy customer …Your Radar Arch makes my Trophy look Great. Thanks Again for the Great Workmanship / Service and on time delivery. ‎ Can not wait to get my boat on the water.

Adam Maugeri – June 16, 2017

All I have to say is that I was extremely pleased with the quality of this arch!!!!! At this price you cant beat it. Not only is the quality and workmanship great, the customer service was second to none. I had measured wrong and the guys at fish on sports helped me out a great deal, and got me what I needed that same week. Great guys, great American company!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Duke Janssen – March 27, 2018

Really love the arch, installed very easily on my Trophy 2052. More than the arch, I love the service these guys offer and their products. They guided me through which arch to buy, explained how to install it – and, they even went the extra mile and exchanged the 2 larger rod holders they sent me for smaller ones that would better accommodate my boat. And, they expedited my shipping so that I could receive the arch in time for my mechanic to install it. Every step of the way these guys had great service and great products. Very satisfied customer

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Solar arch Davits

• Thread starter xavpil
• Start date Nov 13, 2023
• Forums for All Owners
• Cruising Sailors

Hi all. Quick question to help me decide: I have 2 400w rigid panels and a 9’ dinghy 9.9 HP motor. (FYI can’t have the dinghy hoisted on deck. It has to be stern, hence davits) What arch / davits system do you use? Thx  

I have custom made davits that I mounted my solar panel through a custom structure. I've looked at a number of the systems at the Annapolis boat show but didn't bite on any specific one. But I have a 1984 boat with unique structure constraints by modern standards. dj  

dLj said: I have custom made davits that I mounted my solar panel through a custom structure. I've looked at a number of the systems at the Annapolis boat show but didn't bite on any specific one. But I have a 1984 boat with unique structure constraints by modern standards. dj Click to expand

xavpil said: Oh ok. Thx I actually ordered pre assembled. We ll see about the fit… Click to expand

dLj said: If you measured right they should. I think some of them looked quite nice... dj Click to expand

rgranger said: Who did you order from? Click to expand

xavpil said: Atlantic Towers. Hoping the product is better than their customer service and website Click to expand

dLj said: If I'm remembering correctly, I saw them at the boat show, their product looked well finished. Good luck and let us know how they work out for you. dj Click to expand

The pics on their website look legit... Sailboat Arch | Tower In A Box | Atlantic Towers  

I installed an Atlantic towers arch 3 years ago….. did it myself and love it. I have a 10ft highfield and a 9.9 outboard and 2 200 watt pa els up top. I have some good tips on the installation….. if you care to chat give me a call. I’ll dm you my number. Before we speak, dont buy the dinghy davits. …. Get a better fit without them Greg s/v Souleil #209  

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James's Sailing Adventure: Solar Panels for Boats

• The 2-in-1 12V 200Ah LiFePO4 battery with self-heating & BT
• Double active safety design for comprehensive safety
• Flame-retardant casing stops vertical burning from spreading in 10s

James is an experienced sailor with a passion for the sea and adventure. In 2017, he found his dream boat, SV Triteia, a 1965 Alberg 30 sailboat known for its durability and classic design. After purchasing SV Triteia, James embarked on a full refit to restore the boat to its original condition and prepare it for long voyages.

In 2021, after years of preparation and local sailing, James achieved a major milestone by completing his first solo ocean crossing from Los Angeles to Hawaii, covering 2,300 nautical miles. This significant journey marked the start of James's new life as a full-time sailor, as he set off to explore the world aboard SV Triteia.

James has been documenting his sailing adventures through a popular YouTube channel, where he shares over 300 videos. His content includes detailed refit project videos, exciting sailing adventures, yacht delivery chronicles, and "A Boater's Guide" series, which provides helpful information about various harbors for new visitors. James’s videos have become a valuable resource for the sailing community, offering insights and inspiration for both seasoned sailors and newcomers alike.

The partnership with Renogy

In the summer of 2022, James continued his adventurous journey, setting sail for the South Pacific. His boat is equipped with 400 watts of solar panels, a powerful 3000-watt pure sine wave inverter, and a reliable 12V 200AH lithium battery, ensuring he has the energy he needs for his expeditions at sea.

Benefits of using solar power for boats

Renogy's solar kit offers James numerous benefits on his sailing adventures. The 400 watts of solar panels provide a steady and renewable source of power, allowing him to harness the solar energy even on long passages across the ocean. This energy is stored in the 12V 200AH lithium battery, ensuring he has a reliable power supply for all his needs, day and night. The powerful 3000-watt pure sine wave inverter allows James to run sensitive electronic equipment smoothly and efficiently, from navigation systems and communication devices to everyday comforts like lights and a refrigerator. With this setup, James can sail for extended periods without worrying about running out of power or relying on fuel-powered generators, giving him greater freedom and peace of mind on his journeys. Plus, the eco-friendly nature of solar power aligns with his desire to explore the world sustainably, reducing his carbon footprint while enjoying the beauty of the open sea.

Savings to celebrate

Renogy solar kit generates around 584 kWh of clean energy each year, making his sailing adventures both self-sufficient and eco-friendly. By relying on solar power, he saves approximately $87.6 annually on electricity costs, allowing him to explore the open sea without the worry of running out of power or relying on fossil fuels. This sustainable energy solution also reduces James's carbon dioxide emissions by about 0.24 metric tons each year, contributing to a greener environment. By embracing solar energy, James not only enhances his sailing experience but also supports global efforts to reduce pollution and combat climate change.

A sustainability hero

James's adventurous spirit and dedication to sustainable living truly embody the essence of exploration and innovation. His commitment to sailing the world with minimal environmental impact serves as an inspiration to all who value the great outdoors and our planet. At Renogy, we are honored to support James on his incredible journey by providing reliable solar power solutions that enable his eco-friendly adventures. We are proud to partner with someone who shares our vision for a greener future and look forward to being a part of his continued success on the open seas.

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Contact Kato Marine: 7416 Edgewood Road Annapolis, MD 21403 Phone: 410-269-1218 Call us at the number above - or - Use our quick form - or - Email us Soon we found ourselves making the arches for the same boat models repeatedly and we started taking jigs from the arches where we felt they might become popular. This allows us to make an arch for a boat located away from our area. A typical example is the Island Packet 420 � we have made an fifteen arches for this model!  Kato Marine type 316 stainless steel arches: All our arches are designed with the ability to lift dinghies in mind. They are all welded construction � no joining sleeves or similar. We have a huge number of options available, and because the arches are built to order we can accommodate most special requests. In order to make an arch for a boat that we have no information on, we must have the boat locally in Annapolis MD. Contact us directly to ascertain whether we have an arch for your boat. Patio, Lawn & Garden Generators & Portable Power Solar & Wind Power Solar Panels Add to your order No Additional Cost: You pay nothing for repairs – parts, labor, and shipping included. Coverage: Plan starts on the date of purchase. Drops, spills and cracked screens due to normal use covered for portable products and power surges covered from day one. Malfunctions covered after the manufacturer's warranty. Easy Claims Process: File a claim anytime online or by phone. Most claims approved within minutes. If we can’t repair it, we’ll send you an Amazon e-gift card for the purchase price of your covered product or replace it. Product Eligibility: Plan must be purchased with a product or within 30 days of the product purchase. Pre-existing conditions are not covered. Terms & Details: More information about this protection plan is available within the “Product guides and documents” section. Simply click “User Guide” for more info. 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To view this video download Flash Player BougeRV Arch 200 Watts Fiberglass Flexible Solar Panel, Portable Bendable 12 Volts 10BB Mono Cell for RV Camping Home Boat Marine Curve Surface Black 100W/39.6*23.7*0.08 in 200W/58.1*31*0.08 in Purchase options and add-ons Brand BougeRV Material Monocrystalline Silicon Product Dimensions 58.1"L x 30"W x 0.08"H Item Weight 7 Pounds Efficiency 23% About this item Double Fiberglass Protect increases the impact resistance. No worry about the crack. Double glass fiber is placed on the upper and lower layers of the mono solar cell for protection, which can avoid damage to the mono solar cell to the greatest extent. Max To 270° Flexible. Matches more curved surfaces, allowing you to install where rigid solar panels cannot. Make full use of the limited space on the roof or even the curved part of the front of the car. ETFE Covering Material. Using ETFE instead of PET, will not delaminate after long-term use, so it has a longer service life. It has anti-scratch/self-cleaning/sand-proof capabilities and can resist impact and abrasion, preventing collisions and possible wear, scratches, etc. This happens frequently during transportation and maintenance activities. Lightweight and Easy to Carry. Ultra Lightweight-Only 7 lbs and Thin-Only 2mm. The BougeRV factory uses special lamination technology to make fiberglass flexible solar panels light and thin, leading in the market, and easy to move. Multiple Protective Material Insulation. Effectively reduce module temperature by -0.39%/℃, and improve output power By 6W. 10BB Cell Design. More Busbar, More Power. BougeRV 200W glass fiber flexible solar panel uses the high-level 10BB cell design with a 23% highest conversion rate. It makes the solar panel have a longer service life. Increase the cell receiving surface, a thinner ribbon reduces the covered area by 22%. Also, it can charge a 12V battery or a 24/48V battery by wiring several solar panels in series. Easy installation. There are pre-punched holes for easy installation. You can also apply glass glue for quick installation. Durable & User Friendly. The sturdy panel can withstand high wind (2400 Pa) and snow loads (5400 Pa) and perform excellently in low-light environments. IP67 Rated Waterproof Junction Box can isolate environmental particles and low-pressure water jets. Diodes are pre-installed in the junction box, with pre-attached 3ft Cables. Pre-drilled holes on the back of the panel allow you to quickly install solar panels without using heavy tools. 1-on-1 Solar Solution by BougeRV Tech Support & Warm Warranty. BougeRV promises a 5 years product warranty a 25-year power warranty and lifetime warm-hearted service for you. Please get in touch with us whenever you have any problems with the BougeRV solar panel. We will provide you with a professional guide to building a solar system. Customer ratings by feature There is a newer model of this item:. Frequently bought together Similar items that may deliver to you quickly Videos for this product Click to play video Installation method-BougeRV Fiberglass solar panel Flexible solar panel and solar charge controller Tiny Campers What is the benefit of fiberglass flexible solar panels? Fiberglass solar panel system installation tutorial What happens if we bend the flexible solar panel than 30? What if use a basketball to hit Fiberglas solar panels? What happeds under hevay impact-Fiberglass solar panel Product description, impact test video. Impact test video Installation guide video Hit test video Solar system HIT TEST VIDEO Solar system. Installation Method Specific Parameters--Single 200W Fiberglass Flexible Solar Panel Maximum Power (W) 200±5% W Open Circuit Voltage Voc (V) 20.1±5% V Max Power Voltage Vmp (V) 17.1±5% V Max Power Current Imp (A) 11.7±5% A Short Circuit Current Isc (A) 12.28±3% A Solar Cells Efficiency 23% Product Diameter (IN) 58.1 x 31 x 0.08 inches Net Weight (kg / lb) 3.2 kg / 7 lbs Application Class Class A Max Static Load (front) 2400 Pa Max Static Load (back) 2400pa Series Fuse Rating 10A Pre-drilled holes on the back of the panel allow you to easily install them without any heavy tools. Related Solar Products $129.99$129.99 $139.99$139.99 $599.99$599.99 $149.99$149.99 $399.99$399.99 $39.99$39.99 $369.99$369.99 24V High Voltage 270° Flexible 360° Flexible, Light & Thin 12V/24V Self-Heating Backlit Display Pure Sine Wave 31.1±5% V 19.8±5% V 25V 12V/24V 12.8V 12V/24V DC 12V to AC 110V 33.6 x 23.1 x 1.4 inches 39.6*23.7*0.08 inches 25.4 x 78.7 x 0.06 inches 10.02 x 8.25 x 4.91 inches 11.4 x 8.26 x 7.67 inches 6.6 x 4.5 x 2.1 inches 12.4*8.07*3.54 inches 12.3 lbs 3.8lb 6.68 lbs 4.93 lbs 27 lbs 0.9 lbs 11.46 lbs ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Looking for specific info? Product guides and documents, product information, technical details. Brand ‎BougeRV Material ‎Monocrystalline Silicon Product Dimensions ‎58.1"L x 30"W x 0.08"H Item Weight ‎7 Pounds Efficiency ‎23% Connector Type ‎SOLAR CONNECTOR Included Components ‎Light AC Adapter Current ‎11.7 Amps Maximum Voltage ‎17.1 Volts Maximum Power ‎200 Watts Manufacturer ‎BougeRV Part Number ‎ISE230 Item Weight ‎7 pounds Country of Origin ‎Malaysia Item model number ‎ISE230 Size ‎200W/58.1*31*0.08 in Color ‎Black Style ‎Modern Batteries Included? ‎No Batteries Required? ‎No Additional Information ASIN B0CP29YQCK Customer Reviews 4.5 out of 5 stars Best Sellers Rank #48,544 in Patio, Lawn & Garden ( ) #247 in Date First Available November 27, 2023 Warranty & Support Amazon.com Return Policy: You can return many items you have purchased within 30 days following delivery of the item to you. Our Voluntary 30-Day Return Guarantee does not affect your legal right of withdrawal in any way. You can find out more about the exceptions and conditions . Fields with an asterisk * are required : : : Enter the store name where you found this product : Please select province : to provide feedback. \n' + ' ' ); } function getThankYouDiv(thankMsg) { return ( ' \n' + ' ' ); } function getLoadingGifDiv() { return ' Top Brand: BougeRV Compare with similar items. Arch 200 Watts Fiberglass Flexible Solar Panel, Portable Bendable 12 Volts 10BB Mono Cell for RV Camping Home Boat Marine Curve Surface Black 100W Flexible Solar Panel Portable Bendable 12 Volts 10BB Mono Cell for Uneven Surfaces Marine Camping Home Boat RV Surface Black Arch 200 Watts Fiberglass Flexible Solar Panel, Portable Bendable 12 Volts 10BB Mono Cell for RV Camping Home Boat Marine Curve Surface Black (2PCS 100 Watt) 24V N-Type 16BB 200W Bifacial Solar Panel, 24V 200 Watt Solar Panel, for RV Camping Boat Marine Log Cabin Roof, Charing Golf Cart Lithium Battery, Black Frame (1PCS) 400 Watts CIGS Thin-Film Flexible Solar Panel, The Most Flexible Solar Panel with Pre-Punched Holes for Easy Installation (2PCS 200W Pre-Punched) 260Watt 12Volt Flexible Solar Panel Kit for Off Grid Home RV, Boat and Uneven Surfaces:2pcs 130W Mono Solar Panel + 30A 12V Charger Controller + Solar Cable + Tray Cable + Y Branch Price $279.99$279.99 $109.99$109.99 $269.99$269.99 $249.99$249.99 $1,119.99$1,119.99 -18% $219.99$219.99 List: $269.79 Delivery Customer Ratings 33 1,222 11 26 6 28 Sold By connector type material Customer reviews 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 77% 14% 0% 5% 5% 77% 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 77% 14% 0% 5% 5% 14% 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 77% 14% 0% 5% 5% 0% 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 77% 14% 0% 5% 5% 5% 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 77% 14% 0% 5% 5% 5% Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them. To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness. Customers say Customers like the performance, ease of installation, and quality of the solar panel. For example, they mention it works great, it's easy to install, and the wires and connections are high quality. That said, some complain it'll damage their roof. AI-generated from the text of customer reviews Customers are satisfied with the performance of the solar panel. They mention that it works great, is easy to install, and works as advertised. "Bought for a replacement on my 2022 Cardinal 5th wheel RV. It works great , Easy install, standard plug in and ready to go...." Read more "... Works perfectly for our application , got up to 14 amps on a sunny day in Utah during midday." Read more "...This solar panel works as advertised ! I will be keeping these, installing them on my sailboat, and probably ordering more...." Read more "...They worked flawlessly for 4 months , putting out over 100 watts each (about 6.5 charging amps @12 volts) on several occasions...." Read more Customers find the installation process of the solar panel to be easy. They mention that it works great, is easy to install, and does not require any holes in the roof of their RV. "...It works great, Easy install , standard plug in and ready to go. Great product at a very good price" Read more " Easy to install no holes in roof of rv" Read more " Easy to install - works great..." Read more Customers are satisfied with the quality of the solar panel. They mention that it is a good quality, lightweight, and sturdy product. "Is a good quality , lightweight weight, somewhat flexible. Works perfectly for our application, got up to 14 amps on a sunny day in Utah during midday." Read more "I was impressed with the build quality of this panel. Got it to mount on my off road pickup to charge my power station...." Read more "...They are sturdy , yet light weight and the wires and connections are high quality...." Read more Reviews with images Easy to install - works great Sort reviews by Top reviews Most recent Top reviews Top reviews from the United States There was a problem filtering reviews right now. please try again later.. Amazon Newsletter About Amazon Accessibility Sustainability Press Center Investor Relations Amazon Devices Amazon Science Sell on Amazon Sell apps on Amazon Supply to Amazon Protect & Build Your Brand Become an Affiliate Become a Delivery Driver Start a Package Delivery Business Advertise Your Products Self-Publish with Us Become an Amazon Hub Partner › See More Ways to Make Money Amazon Visa Amazon Store Card Amazon Secured Card Amazon Business Card Shop with Points Credit Card Marketplace Reload Your Balance Amazon Currency Converter Your Account Your Orders Shipping Rates & Policies Amazon Prime Returns & Replacements Manage Your Content and Devices Recalls and Product Safety Alerts Registry & Gift List Conditions of Use Privacy Notice Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure Your Ads Privacy Choices 415 IMAGES Installing 800W of Solar on our Sailboat! DIY Solar Arch Building the best solar arch for our sailboat Bavaria 42 Solar Arch Project: Arch and Solar Power Solar Power on Sailboats Catalina 42 mk2 Solar Panel Arch COMMENTS Sailboat Arch Universal Arch Makes Installations on Hundreds of Other Makes and Models Possible. For Sailors, the "Tower in a Box" Arch from Atlantic Towers is designed to mount to the deck, transom, hull sides or a combination. The approximate 30 degree angle, clears most existing biminis, back stays, and pushpits. Mounting hardware (feet) is shipped loose ... DIY sailboat arch In 2017, Fiona and her husband completed a 3-year, 13,000-mile voyage from Vancouver to Mexico to Australia on their 35-foot sailboat. Solar arches and radar arches are common on cruising sailboats but they can be pricey. We built our own sailboat arch for only $200. Solar Panel Arches for Sailboats Having a solar arch mounted, will also give you the option to carry and hoist a dinghy from the integrated davits. As a sailor, you used to have two options, when looking to mount an arch on your sailboat to carry solar panels and a dinghy on the stern: Buy a 100% standard product, which you then cut and drill so it fits onto your boat. Sailboat Arch Since the introduction of the "Tower in a Box" Sail Arch in 2009, A thousand plus sailors have cruised tens of thousands of miles, carrying solar panels, tenders, wind generators, and every other type of gear imaginable on their Sail Arch. Truly the "swiss army knife" of marine structures, Cruising Sailors have taken this high quality ... Sail Solar Arches sailsolararches.com. Solar arches installed in different models of sailboats. More than 15 years manufacturing custom stainless steel arches for sailboats. We have developed these 2 standard arches, adaptable to any sailboat up to 50 feet. With a system of ball joints that allows the arch to be adjusted to any transom and to pass the cables ... Yacht Solar Panel Arch (Do This) Learn how to add solar power to your sailboat or yacht with a solar panel arch. Find out what components you need, how to choose a kit, and how to deal with shading and other factors. Building the best solar arch for our sailboat DON'T MAKE MY $5000 MISTAKE! Watch this video to see the PROPER way to build a solar arch on your boat. This is THE BEST solar arch money can buy, and it onl... Solar Panel Arches for Sailboats The width of the arch (1,5 m - 4,5 m) Suitable for most sailboats between 25 and 55 feet. The height of the arch (1,2 m - 2,5 m) Forward legs offset, meaning how much you want the forward legs spread out to the sides, relative to the aft legs. Height of horizontal cross-tubes. Length of and distance between davits. Building a sailboat arch for solar panels, dinghy davits ... Building a sailboat arch for solar panels, dinghy davits, fenders and workoutThe best way to mount solar panels on a sailboat is to make a sailboat solar arc... how to make a solar panel arch DIY solar panel arch on my 30ft sailboat, 400 watts! How i constructed the arch.solar panels part 2 https://youtu.be/Xop2IJ520Uc If you find these videos he... Marine Solar Panels for Sailboats A solar-power installation on a sailboat is made up of two independent systems: one system to charge the batteries, and another system to provide 120-volt AC power for household appliances. In the charging system, the solar panels convert sunlight into electrical current and deliver it to the batteries via a solar charge controller. Solar arch Eolios Arch It is a standard solar arch that can be fitted to virtually any sailboat up to 50 feet in length. Manufactured in AISI-316 (maritime) steel with a bright polished finish (Ø35mm tube for the arches and Ø30mm for the central tubes), the Eolios Arch has a ball joint system that allows the arch to be adapted to any transom with an angle of 90º or greater (if less, the client you can make some ... How to Install Solar Panels on a Sailboat Another factor you'll need to consider is the size of your boat battery bank. In general, a 100Ah deep cycle battery will need 180 watts of solar to fully charge, assuming you have at least four hours of sunlight a day. Thus, if you have a 200Ah battery bank, you'll need at least 360 watts of solar. In this case, two 200-watt panels would ... Sailboat Solar Systems and How-To He's been living aboard and renovating the boat for the past 3.5 years We're excited to show you the transformation as well as how he plans to propel the boat without the use of diesel or fossil fuels! 5280w Solar System for Electric Powered Catamaran. 16 Rigid solar panels (330w each) 20kwh of Lithium Batteries. Radar Solar Arches Streamline your boat with our fully customizable Arch; Solar Panels, Dinghy Davits, Antenna Mount (Radar/ Starlink) Modular Design, boasts Atkins & Hoyle Fittings rather than welds. ... Solar Arch - Large Medium Anodized Aluminum Arch 110"-144" Widths 80" Height under the arch Upgrade Opt. to Custom/ Stainless Design below. CAD $7900.00. Installing 800W of Solar on our Sailboat! DIY Solar Arch In this video, we build our own DIY stern arch so that we can add two large solar panels to our sailing boat. These will help to power our electric motor (fo... Top 3 Best Solar Panels For Sailboats Nature Power Rigid. The nature power rigid is a large, powerful, single solar panel. If you are looking for the right panels to power your entire boat comfortably, these are the ones for you. They are very large so they will need a large flat surface area. alternatively, they can be hung vertically from rails. Uni Fishing Boat Arch The Fish-On-Sports Uni-Arch is a terrific product with many available options. I install the Arch on my 36 foot sailboat to support 2 large solar panels, and to carry our dinghy on davits. The arch is strong, looks great, and very functional with light brackets, antenna mounts, radar mount, and dinghy davits. Solar arch Davits Nov 15, 2023. #2. I have custom made davits that I mounted my solar panel through a custom structure. I've looked at a number of the systems at the Annapolis boat show but didn't bite on any specific one. But I have a 1984 boat with unique structure constraints by modern standards. dj. James's Sailing Adventure: Solar Panels for Boats In the summer of 2022, James continued his adventurous journey, setting sail for the South Pacific. His boat is equipped with 400 watts of solar panels, a powerful 3000-watt pure sine wave inverter, and a reliable 12V 200AH lithium battery, ensuring he has the energy he needs for his expeditions at sea. Benefits of using solar power for boats SailAway 75 DIY SOLAR ARCH INSTALL on our Liveaboard Sailboat! And the CAPTAIN HAS A BIRTHDAY! This week our modifications and preparations for sailing the world ramp ... Kato Marine type 316 stainless steel arches: Kato Marine has been builidng sailboat arches for 20 years. Since we started our criteria was that the arches should be; (a) aesthetically pleasing, (b) strong, functional and made from stainless steel, and (c) finished to Kato's usual high standards. Soon we found ourselves making the arches for the same boat models repeatedly and we started ... Amazon.com : BougeRV Arch 200 Watts Fiberglass Flexible Solar Panel BougeRV Arch 200 Watts Fiberglass Flexible Solar Panel, Portable Bendable 12 Volts 10BB Mono Cell for RV Camping Home Boat Marine Curve Surface Black . Visit the BougeRV Store. 4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 31 ratings. Amazon's Choice highlights highly rated, well-priced products available to ship immediately. Sailboat Solar Panel Arch Super Cheap In this Captain's Vlog I build a Solar Arch for the Back of my 32' Ericson Sailboat for the less than $200. I found Stainless Steal arches for over $1400! So... NASA's Pioneering Solar Sail Mission Is Stuck An artist's concept of the Solar Sail mission in orbit. NASA It's been a few months since launch, and NASA's solar sail mission isn't looking so good; ground teams have so far failed to ... Installing the BIGGEST solar arch we could find to prepare ... Our family is continuing to work toward our goal of off grid, long range sailing. In this video the whole family works together to install the Super Sail Ar... catamaran gulet motorboat powerboat riverboat sailboat trimaran yacht