best solar panels for a sailboat

Top 3 Best Solar Panels For Sailboats

Best Solar Panels For Sailboats | Life of Sailing

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.

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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Picking the best solar panels for a sailboat: Buyer’s guide

18 Aug 2022

You might have already heard of brave sailors that conquer the oceans with nothing but wits and solar panels. For instance, this year 83-year-old Kenichi Horie became the oldest person to sail solo from the US to Japan on a solar-powered boat. These stories are inspiring, but picking panels for your boat yourself can be a small challenge in itself. That’s why we wrote a short article about the best solar panels for sailboats and how to recognize them.

Start from type of solar panels

When it comes to solar panels for sailboats, their weight and size matters more than with PV modules for residential systems. Efficiency is important but power — not that much, because the energy needs of a boat are relatively low. The first thing you’ll have to decide about your panels is their type.

Generally, you’ll choose between thin-film panels and monocrystalline modules. While polycrystalline panels are still around and they are indeed cheaper than mono panels, they are much less efficient, which means they’ll need more space and add more weight to your boat.

Thin-film panels are light and cheap

Thin-film or flexible solar panels bend well and they are very easy to install which makes them a great choice for boats with difficult configurations. Some sailors say that flexible panels are the best choice for fast boats because they don’t impact the aerodynamics of a vessel as much as rigid panels do.

The downside of flexible panels is their low wattage. If there are many appliances on board, you’ll need several panels and you’ll need to find the right place for each of them. They also age faster than rigid panels — a thin-film panel generally lasts for 10-15 years.

Monocrystalline panels are powerful and reliable

Rigid solar modules, monocrystalline and polycrystalline, are heavier and bulkier than thin-film panels. You can fix flexible panels with adhesives, but rigid panels require drilling. They are also more expensive than flexible panels.

On the other hand, monocrystalline panels are the most efficient type of panels which means that they provide more power for less space. Even one powerful mono panel can be enough for everything that you’ve got on board. They are also much more reliable and will survive any storm that is coming your way. A monocrystalline panel lasts for at least 25 years.

Panels for boat should be efficient and sturdy

The best solar panels for sailboats don’t have to be powerful, but they better be efficient — find the number in the datasheet. For rigid panels anything over 18-19% is fine. Panels also should be sturdy enough to withstand seastorms. You generally also want good shading tolerance since panels often get shaded by masts and sails. Finally, good performance in low-light conditions is appreciated.

Picking bifacial panels, 72/144-cell panels or larger, anything too powerful generally doesn't make a lot of sense. Performance at high temperatures matters less than it does with home systems. Warranties also play a lesser role. You won’t be able to make use of them because they generally have effect only for residential installations.

The markets of thin-film and rigid panels are different. Generally, a manufacturer of flexible panels doesn’t offer mono- or poly-panels. Canadian Solar, Q CELLS and Jinko Solar are good choices when it comes to monocrystalline modules for boats. Renogy , WindyNation and PowerFilm make fine thin-film panels.

Do the math before purchase

The amount of power for your boat depends on the number of appliances on your board. There are two main ways to determine the size of installation that you need. You can take a test trip and see how much of your battery’s charge you’ve spent in one day. You can also do the calculations manually: write down all the appliances on the board with their power rating and number of hours in use per day. You can read about it in detail in our article " How much solar power to sail the seas? " It doesn’t make sense to oversize a marine PV system, because all the excess power will just go to waste.

Keep in mind that adding photovoltaics doesn’t make your vessel a solar boat, unless you have a solar-powered motor. You can switch your boat to solar energy fully, especially if it’s small, but you’ll have to calculate your energy needs accordingly.

Once you’ve purchased your panels, you’ll have to install them properly. You can order professional service or do it yourself. The most popular places for solar panels on a boat are a stern rail, masts, deck and canvas. Thin-film panels can even go on the sails. Ideally, you want a place where panels wouldn’t be shaded by masts on any other parts of a boat.

List of solar panels for a sailboat

We’ve asked our engineer to pick the panels that would complement a small boat well. These are his choices:

ZNShine Solar ZXM6-NH120-370/M

Solar panels from ZNShine Solar are inexpensive and fit all kinds of applications, including boat systems. ZXM6-NH120-370/M provides 370 Watts of power with a 19.88% efficiency. It performs well in low-light conditions. Graphene coating increases power generation and allows self-cleaning. The only downside is a lower wind tolerance, compared to other models: it is rated to withstand 2400 Pa pressure which is comparable to 140 mph wind.

Mission Solar MSE345SX5T

MSE 345 is a simple solar panel for all kinds of applications, including boat installations. Mission Solar panels are manufactured in Texas. The module provides 345 Watts of power with 18.7% efficiency. It is certified for high snow (5400 Pa) and wind loads (4000 Pa). The model is resistant to salt mist corrosion.

Suntech STP 365 S

Suntech is a Chinese company that offers quality budget-friendly solar panels. The STP365S model stands out in line because of its great performance in weak light, such as cloudy weather and mornings. It is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, and the module is certified to tolerate wind of over 170 mph. Half-cut design makes cells sturdier and improves shading tolerance. Overall, this panel earns a place among the best boat solar panels.

Andrey had been a news editor and freelance writer for a number of medias before joining A1SolarStore team. Climate change and its impact on people's lives has always been among his interests and it partially explains his degree in Philosophy and Ethics.

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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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Best Solar panels for off-grid power and keeping batteries charged

Phil Sampson
November 28, 2022

We take a look at 6 of the best solar panels for boats, from folding units to cutting-edge flexible panels

best-solar-panels-buying-guide-credit-graham-snook

Free power forever? If only it was that simple! Photo: Graham Snook

For many in the boating community, solar panels represent something of a holy grail. They are, after all, the gift that keeps on giving, aren’t they? Free power forever, (or many years anyway), coupled with zero running costs – what could possibly be better than that?

All you have to do to make this dream come true is banish the memory of the purchase price from your mind – something boaters are notoriously adept at doing – and wait for the sun to shine. If only it were that simple…

The fact of the matter is that there are costs associated with solar panels beyond the price of the panels themselves. While some types of panels can be simply laid on the deck, in many cases some form of mount will be required.

Then there’s the wiring to hook them up to your battery, plus any fitment and/or cosmetic work needed to hide the cabling from view. If your panels are to be left connected permanently, you’ll require a regulator too.

This will prevent both overcharging and a reverse flow of power out of the battery after dark. If you do not fit a regulator, a blocking diode can be used to halt the reverse flow instead.

But once all of the above have been overcome – and providing you’ve done your homework to ensure your panels will generate sufficient power to cover your needs – then, yes, it’s a power free for all!

There are many other benefits to boat solar panels too: First and foremost, they work all on their own – solar panels are automatic, so you can just let them get on with the job.

Apart from the occasional wipe over and a wiring check, they’re largely maintenance-free too. Unlike wind generators, (especially like the one with wonky bearings on that boat moored next to you), they don’t make any noise.

And finally, your batteries will be pleased, because keeping them from going flat can extend their life.

Here’s our choice of the best boat solar panels.

6 of the best boat solar panels available right now

Giosolar 1,000W flexible solar panel

Best flexible boat solar panel

Delivering a mighty kilowatt of power, (not far off the amount used by a one bedroom house), this Giostar package comprises ten separate 100W panels, each of which is 1,050 x 540 x 2.5mm in size.

Capable of charging either 12 or 24V batteries, a kit of this magnitude is one for the most serious of solar enthusiasts – Eco Experts reckons 660-990W is sufficient for a liveaboard.

Giostar panels are abrasion resistant, anti-rust and dust proof and their junction boxes are sealed and waterproof. The panels are also light, thin and flexible, and can withstand being bent up to 30 degrees.

Reasons to buy: Incredible amount of power, panels are abrasion resistant as well as anti rust + dust proof

Reasons to avoid: Premium price

Price: £1,464.45

Buy it now on Amazon (UK)

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

Ecoflow 160w portable solar panel.

Mobisolar 100W foldable solar panel

Best foldable boat solar panel

Mobisolar’s foldable panels are light (4.5kg) and measure 121 x 56.5 x 3 cm when unfolded, with the longest dimension reducing to 60 cm when folded, making them easy to transport.

The panels use advanced technology to provide superior performance, with each panel subjected to a thorough testing routine before and after assembly.

So confident is Mobisolar in its products that the company stands behind its panels with a two-year defect warranty and a five years’ electrical performance warranty.

For maximum flexibility in operation, three USB power outputs are fitted per panel, one delivering 100W, the second 60W and the third 10W.

Reasons to buy: Foldable, lightweight and long warranty

Reasons to avoid: Not resistant to the elements, doesn’t feature mounting holes

Price: £145.00

Buy it now on eBay

Eco-worthy 100W solar panel kit

With 100W panels being ideal for keeping batteries topped up, our second offering in this power class is from Eco-worthy, a major player in the solar panel field.

Competitively priced, our link below is for a kit which includes an LCD control unit and four ‘Z’ brackets in addition to the panel itself.

The Eco-worthy 100W panel is of the monocrystalline type, which means their cells are made from an ingot grown from a single silicon crystal of high purity. It’s also a rigid panel, so this particular product would need to be mounted on a frame or flat surface.

Reasons to buy: Competitively priced, Features LCD panel, brackets

Reasons to avoid: Only a year warranty, not resistant to elements

Price: £113.99

PV Logic 20W Flexi solar panel

Offered by Force 4 Chandlery, this lightweight semi-flexible solar panel comes complete with a dual battery solar charge controller.

The panel is completely waterproof thanks to its six-layer, heavy-duty laminate finish, and should a wayward crew member plod over it in their size 9s the panel’s dimpled top surface is ‘self healing’.

The controller can handle both 12 and 24V systems and the panel’s PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) charging system is efficient and battery-lifetime friendly.

Supplied with LED battery-status indicators and 4 metres of cable, PV Logic Flexi panels can be bonded to flat or curved surfaces.

Reasons to buy: Lightweight, waterproof, dual controller

Reasons to avoid: Lacks mounting options

Price: £149.95

Buy it now on Force 4 Chandlery

Powoxi 10W solar panel

At the budget end of the market comes this Powoxi 10W solar panel charger kit. While you won’t go far on just 10W of power, this kit claims to be capable of charging and maintaining various 12V batteries.

The kit features a fully automatic charging and maintenance controller, which provides intelligent three-level charging and protection against short- and open-circuits, under voltage and overloading.

A reverse flow system is included and the interface is described as ‘plug and play’. While the panel is rainproof, it will not withstand immersion in water, so this is a product to perhaps leave behind on the dock when you take to the water.

Reasons to buy: Great budget option, plug and play

Reasons to avoid: Not waterproof, won’t go far on 10V

Price: £27.59

Eco-worthy 10W/5W solar panel

The least pricey option we could find anywhere, this baby 5W solar panel is simply a trickle charger. But if that’s all you need then look no further, for this is another Eco-worthy product.

The technology in the panel is polycrystalline, so it’s not the most efficient on the market, but for this power that’s hardly a great concern.

The panel is supplied with two charging options; a pair of crocodile clips which attach directly to the battery, and a cigarette lighter plug.

According to the product’s eBay listing, this seller alone has sold approaching 3,000 of these units – and at this price, we can understand why!

Reasons to buy: Incredible price, can be charged via car lighter plug

Reasons to avoid: Small, not very efficient

Price: £9.99

9 Best Solar Panels for Sailboats

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Solar panels have become game changers when it comes to supplying power while off the grid. Marine solar panels can charge anything from batteries to computers to bigger electronic appliances. What are the best solar panels for sailboats?

The 9 best solar panels for sailboats are:

Renogy Flexible Solar Panel
Newpowa Solar Panel
SunPower Flexible Sol ar Panel
Eco-Worthy Off-Grid Solar Panel
Rich Solar Polycrystalline
Topsolar Flexible Solar Panel
HQST Monocrystalline Solar Panel
WindyNation Solar Panel Complete Off-Grid
DOKIO Solar Panel Kit

This article will explore everything you need to know about the best marine solar panels.

Table of Contents

Solar Panels on Sailboats: An Overview

Before exploring the best solar panels, it is helpful to consider how solar panels on sailboats work and how many you need. Solar panels sit on different parts of a sailboat’s surface and absorb the sun’s rays, converting them into energy. This energy is used to power chargers, fridges, cooking stoves, and other electronics you need for self-sufficient sailing.

Worth noting is that today we will only discuss solar panels and not the batteries, which of course is an essential part of a complete system; we will also not discuss charges or charge controllers.

The products in this post will get you started in the right direction, but if you’re looking for a high-output system, then I suggest you contact someone that can help you calculate your energy requirements.

How Many Solar Panels Do I Need for My Sailboat?

You will need between 2-8 solar panels for your sailboat. The exact amount depends on your sailboat’s space and how many electronics you need to power. Most solar panels can absorb between 100-300 watts per hour. On average, you will need approximately 1500 watts of power each day.

If your solar panels absorb 1500 watts daily, here’s what they can power on your sailboat:

A laptop charger
A microwave
A coffee maker
An induction cooker

If you want to power more heavy-duty electronics like a washing machine or a television, look for solar panels that absorb 400 watts. For heavy-duty electronics, try installing 5-8 solar panels.

Flexible vs. Rigid Solar Panels

The three main types of solar panels are rigid panels, flexible panels, and semi-flexible panels.

Rigid panels are surrounded by aluminum and made with sturdy tempered glass. They are resilient against various weather conditions but require flat space to install.

Semi-flexible panels can be slightly bent to fit the shape of the installation surface. However, they can’t absorb a lot of power.

One very common type of solar panel used on boats is the flexible panel . Flexible panels are thin and lightweight, and, as their name suggests, they can be added to a wide variety of surfaces.

Here are the pros of flexible panels:

They are thin and light. Flexible panels are approximately one-eighth the weight and size of rigid and semi-flexible panels. This allows you to add them to various sailboat sizes and surfaces. It also reduces the load on your sailboat.
They are easy to install. Flexible panels are easy to work with and can be self-installed by following the instructions that come with the panels. Meanwhile, rigid and semi-flexible panels may require expert installations.
They’re sturdy. Despite being light, flexible panels can bear a lot of pressure – you can easily walk over them.

However, there are also some drawbacks to using flexible solar panels:

May fly away . As flexible panels are fragile, they can easily be dislodged and fly away, especially in strong winds.
Vulnerable to scratches . While flexible panels can bear much weight, they may get scratched more easily. Over time this may affect their functionality.
Not easy to reposition. Flexible panels are generally adhered to the surface of a sailboat using a specially prepared adhesive. Because of this, it is challenging to reposition the solar panels when there is a change of season.
Less efficient. Flexible solar panels don’t convert energy to electricity or rigid panels. It may be harder to power heavy-duty appliances from a flexible solar panel.

How Many Panels Can I Fit on a Sailboat (Catamaran and Monohull)?

The amount of panels you can fit on your sailboat depends on the size of the panels and the surface space you have available.

You can fit at least two 400W panels on a Monohull and at least four on a Catamaran around 35ft in length. You will be able to fit 4-8 more solar panels if you add a solar panel bracket at the stern.

Renogy Flexible Solar Panel 100W

Renogy is a popular solar panel producer that designs high-quality solar panels. The Renogy Flexible Solar Panel is specially designed for marine vehicles, including sailboats.

Here are the best features of this solar panel:

Flexibility . These solar panels are fragile, making them flexible and easy to mount on served surfaces.
Easy to install. These are made with high-quality Monocrystalline, allowing them to be easily bent and easy to install.
Lightweight. One solar panel weighs only 4 pounds, ensuring that no extra pressure or weight is displaced on your boat.
Durability . User reviews have noted that these panels are highly durable and can last you a few years.
Users have noted that these panels do not have the best outputs. They also can’t be stacked, which impacts their accessibility. To ensure that these panels can be connected, you may purchase extra extension cords.

Newpowa Rigid 160W Solar Panel

The Newpowa Right Solar Panel is a new design with a maximum power of 160W. It is weather-resistant and can be used on various surfaces and vehicles.

Here are the pros of the Newpowa Solar Panel:

Weatherproof . The design features of this solar panel ensure that it survives under a range of different weather conditions. It has a heavy-duty frame preventing it from strong wind and waves. Its mainframe has a further layer of protection for the Junction box.
Long warranty . Newpowa offers a 25-year transferrable output power warranty.
Easy to install . These solar panels are made with mono cells and bypass diodes. Consequently, the solar panels can be immediately unpacked and are ready to install.
High wattage. As these solar panels have 160 Watts of power, you need less of them to power all the devices on your boat.
If you are planning on buying the Newpowa Solar Panel, you should note that they only make rigid panels. As a result, you may find it to be difficult to install them on curved spaces.

SunPower 110W Flexible Solar Panel

SunPower’s Flexible Solar Panels are made with high-quality materials ensuring durability. They are especially ideal for sailboats as their warranty also covers saltwater damage.

Here are the standout features of the SunPower 110W Flexible Solar Panel:

Flexibility . This solar panel can be bent up to 30 degrees, making it easy to install on various surfaces.
Easily portable. These solar panels are incredibly lightweight (4.4 pounds or 2 kilograms) and can be easily uninstalled and transported.
Extended warranty . SunPower offers a five-year warranty on power and a two-year warranty on the product. The warranty includes damage caused by saltwater which many other solar panel warranties do not.
Some users have noted that the output quality of these solar panels deteriorates over time. However, you can use the extended warranty to address any quality deterioration.

ECO-WORTHY Rigid 25W Off-Grid Solar Panel

This is a rigid, 25-watt solar panel that is waterproof, making it ideal for your boat. It is highly durable and has inbuilt indicators that highlight the battery’s status. Its low output makes it only suitable for charging phones or smaller electronics.

Here are some notable features of the Eco-Worthy Solar Panel:

Ease of use. This solar panel is easy to install and requires no maintenance.
Warranty. Eco-Worthy offers one year of warranty on all of its products and free maintenance if needed.
USB control. This solar panel is attached to a USB control panel, preventing it from overcharging and getting damaged.
Waterproof. All solar panel parts are entirely waterproof and can handle exposure to both saltwater and freshwater.

Some of the drawbacks to this solar panel include:

Low watt absorption. Unlike many of the other solar panels on this list, this one can only absorb up to 25 watts of power at a time. So, it can only power smaller devices like batteries.
Instruction manual. Some users have noted that the instructions to set up the Eco-worth solar panel are confusing for beginners. If you have never installed solar panels before, it’s best to call in an expert to help.

RICH SOLAR 100W Rigid 12V Polycrystalline

This 100W rigid solar panel is designed to absorb energy even in low light conditions. It is easy to install and ideal for marine environments.

Here’s why you should consider buying Rich Solar Panels:

Works well in low light. This solar panel has been tested in various low light conditions, including cloudiness and during sunrise and sunset. It is certified to be able to harvest energy in low light conditions.
Extended warranty. Rich Solar Panels offers a 25-year warranty on limited power output and a five-year warranty on quality.
Water and weatherproof . The Rich Solar panels have used selective design elements to ensure they are water-resistant. They have high transparency and are made with tempered glass to withstand high winds and water pressure.
Cost-effective . These are significantly cost-effective, making it easy to equip your sailboat fully.
While solar panels can easily resist strong winds and water, they can be vulnerable to hail. Hail storms can cause dents on the solar panels, which can eventually cause damage.

Topsolar Flexible 100W Solar Panel

Topsolar provides premium flexible solar panels that are easy to move and install. They are ideal for installing on water vessels like sailboats with waterproof materials.

Here are some of the pros of choosing the Topsolar Flexible Solar Panel:

Flexibility . The arc radius of this solar panel is 16 inches (40 centimeters) and can be bent to fit several curved surfaces allowing your solar panel to harvest the most sun.
Efficiency . These solar panels are made with ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) materials. They are extremely energy efficient and can rapidly convert energy.
Some users have noted that these solar panels don’t have as long a life as other panels. In addition, some panels may only be able to absorb up to 75 watts of power at a time.

HQST Rigid 100w Monocrystalline Solar Panel

This is a 100-watt solar panel that has been specially designed to perform well in low light. It is made with high-quality materials and is ideal for sailing boats as it is durable even in unfavorable weather conditions.

Here are the pros of installing the HQST Solar Panel:

Durability . These solar panels are designed to withstand strong winds and snowfall. They’re made with tempered glass and aluminum and are resistant to corrosion, ensuring longevity.
Testing and warranty. Each solar panel is quality tested before it is distributed. It also comes with a three-year warranty.
Easy to install . While these are rigid solar panels, they have pre-drilled holes, making them easier to install.

WindyNation 100W Solar Panel Complete Off-Grid

As its name suggests, this solar panel is designed for off-the-grid living and is helpful if you need to access power when you’re in the middle of the sea.

Here is why you should consider the WindyNation Solar Panel:

Includes a charge controller. This controller lets you quickly see the amount of power the solar panel has absorbed.
High power. Several positive user reviews have indicated that this solar panel is highly efficient in absorbing and converting power.
This solar panel is more expensive than many others on the market.

DOKIO 300W 18V Portable Solar Panel Kit

If you are looking for a heavy-duty solar panel, the Dokio Solar Panel Kit is excellent. It can absorb a lot of energy and power a wide range of appliances on your sailboat.

Here’s why you should consider this solar panel:

Versatile and flexible. While this is a rigid solar panel, it can be folded, making it easy to transport and install.
High efficiency. This solar panel is highly efficient at converting energy into power. As it absorbs up to 300 watts, you can install just two of these panels to get significant energy.
Some users have noted that this solar panel does not work well in low-light conditions. You may want to have a backup solar panel for days when it’s rainy and windy.

Here are Some of My Favorite Catamaran Cruising Resources

Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful as you hopefully start your sailing adventures. Here are some resources that I use as a sailor that I hope you’ll also find helpful. These are affiliate links, so if you do decide to use any of them, I’ll earn a commission. But in all honesty, these are the exact things that I use and recommend to everyone, even my own family. Sailboats: If you’re looking for the best boat to suit your needs, I would recommend a catamaran. If you’re interested, I can show you the differences between catamarans and other types of sailboats .

Books: For getting started, I really like Cruising catamarans made easy . It is actually a textbook from the American sailing association; it is used to get a cruising catamaran certification. There are some other great books, and I have compiled a list of books about cruising catamarans that you will find useful.

Communication: Being out on adventures, whether it be sailing or climbing mountains, good communications are essential to being safe. I recommend two things Google fi (incredibly simple cellular data all over the world) and Garmin inreach mini (for text and voice in remote areas without cell coverage)

Sailing courses: Online sailing courses are great for beginners starting out their sailing career; it’s an efficient way of learning the basics of navigation, throttle controls, and maritime safety. I suggest starting with two free courses from NauticEd .

To see all my most up-to-date recommendations, check out this resource that I made for you!

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

The Best Solar Panels for Boats of 2024

Solar panels are a great way to give your boat energy and power. If you like taking long rides on motorized watercraft, having solar panels can reduce your energy costs. They also make sure that the boat is efficient and never runs out of power in an emergency. There are multiple options for solar panels available, which can make the market search even more confusing. To help you find a suitable pick, we have shortlisted and keenly reviewed our favorite solar panels for boats in 2024.

A top-quality product not only lasts long but also delivers efficient results. This is why it is essential to invest your money in high-end solar panels. All our products are selected based on their overall performance and ability to deliver high-end results.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall: Renogy Solar Panels for Boats Shop Now ➔
Most Lightweight Design: Rophie Solar Panels for Boats Shop Now ➔
Premium Kit: TopSolar Solar Panels for Boats Shop Now ➔
Best Backup Kit: ECO-WORTHY Solar Panels for Boats Shop Now ➔
Simple Installation: Sunway Solar Panels for Boats Shop Now ➔
Premier Foldable Panel: EF ECOFLOW Solar Panels for Boats Shop Now ➔
1 What to Consider When Buying Solar Panels?
2 Size
3 Type
4 Accessories
5 How Do Solar Panels for Boats Work?
6 Installation
7 What Are Care Requirements to Enhance the Life of Solar Panels for Boats?
9 Cleaning
10 What Are the Properties of Charge Controllers for Solar Panels for Boats?
11 Basic charge controllers
12 Mid-range charge controllers
13 Max power charge controllers
14 Conclusion

Can solar panels for boats run a trolling boat motor?

How long does it take for a solar panel to charge your boat’s battery, why do people consider installing solar panels for boats, the best solar panels for boats, best overall.

Renogy Solar Panels for Boats

The Renogy are 100W monocrystalline solar panels providing an average of 400-500Wh or 33-41Ah of electricity per day, so you have reliable performance. It has bypass diodes that protect the solar cells from overheating, so you don’t have to worry about maintenance. In addition, it features a corrosion-resistant aluminum train providing extended outdoor use without any extra damage.

These solar panels come with pre-drilled holes on the back so that you can install and mount them without spending money on professional help. They measure 42.2 x 19.6 x 1.38 inches and weigh 14.3 pounds, making them lightweight and convenient. Moreover, you can install them on boats, rooftops, cabins, and more for multifunctional use. Because of their efficiency and reliability, these solar panels stand at the top of our list.

They are weather-resistant
These solar panels maintain cell temperature
Provide reliable performance
Only compatible with Renogy ground mounts and brackets

Most Lightweight Design

Rophie Solar Panels for Boats

The Rophie Solar Panels easily stands out on this list. Designed with impeccable efficiency, they accelerate solar charging to the next level, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and off-grid boat owners. These solar panels convert sunlight into power rapidly, while their ultra-light, foldable design ensures convenience during transport and installation. Don’t let their light weight fool you, though, as they pack an impressive 200 watts, delivering unmatched power performance for your boat or outdoor camping.

These panels don’t just excel in efficiency and power; they’re also built to endure. Their IP67 waterproof grading ensures that they remain operational even under challenging weather conditions. Their high-quality MC-4 connectors further optimize power transfer while ensuring safe and secure connections. Plus, their compact design won’t take up much space, proving to be the optimal choice for boat owners who value both power and convenience.

Lightweight and easily transportable
Durable and water-resistant
High-performance with 200W
Can be a little pricey

Premium Kit

TopSolar Solar Panels for Boats

The TopSolar Solar Panels are available in a kit containing 20W solar panels, a solar charger regulator of 12V/24V, two 6.5-foot cables with alligator clips, and an O-ring terminal to have a complete experience while on the go. They are perfect for off-grid 12-volt battery charging systems providing you with various DC applications like cabins, boats, battery-operated gates, and more. They come with a 10A solar charger controller preventing the battery from overcharging, discharging, and risk of short circuit for a safe experience.

These solar panels have aluminum and tempered glass frames, ensuring a durable and weather-resistant use. Weighing 2.75 pounds and measuring 2.32 x 13.86 x 17.13 inches, they are compact and portable.

Easy to store and carry
They come in a complete kit
Provide excellent weather resistance
Not suitable for large areas and machinery

Best Backup Kit

ECO-WORTHY Solar Panels for Boats

The Eco-Worthy Solar Panels are 10W 12V solar car battery chargers that can be used to recharge boats, motorcycles, boats, snowmobiles, and tractors. They feature a cigarette plug option supplying you with constant power when needed. This kit includes a cigarette lighter adapter, one pair of battery clips, and four-piece PVC suckers ensuring maximum results in no time.

They also have energy-saving, built-in blocking diodes that prevent reverse discharge from maintaining and extending battery life for maximum durability. It measures 1.4 x 9.6 x 15.3 inches and weighs only 1.5 pounds, so you have a compact product at hand

They are available in a complete kit
These panels are lightweight and compact
They can recharge different types of vehicles
Only designed for vehicles

Simple Installation

Sunway Solar Panels for Boats

The Sunway Solar Panels are battery charger panel mounts that require a simple installation on any windshield or dash, giving you a quick and convenient experience. They come with 12-volt batteries and a maintainer that protect your panels from overheating and discharging, ensuring safe and convenient use. In addition, these panels are equipped with ultra-clear PC glass, so you have a strong and durable product.

They contain built-in blocking diodes that prevent reverse charging allowing your battery to maintain its useful life. Moreover, they also come with a blinking LED charge indicator that lets you know when the job is done.

Comes with a battery maintainer
Do not require professional installation
Comes with charging indicators
Suitable to recharge small batteries only

Premier Foldable Panel

EF ECOFLOW Solar Panels for Boats

The EF Ecoflow provides 160W solar portable and foldable solar panels, delivering a compact and easy-to-carry experience. They are designed to produce maximum power at any time of the day when paired with an EcoFlow power station, so you never run out of electricity. Moreover, they have a seamless one-piece waterproof design, so you can use them during outdoor activities like camping and hiking.

These solar panels are also equipped with protection during transportation, enabling you to carry them without any concerns. Each pack comes with an Ecoflow 160W solar panel, kickstand case, user manual, and warranty card, so you don’t have to make any additional purchases.

They can be folded for easy storage
Comes in a complete kit
Suitable for different outdoor activities
Can only be paired with an Ecoflow power station

Solar Panels for Boats Buying Guide

We have compiled a detailed buying guide to help you pick a suitable product. It will give you an idea about your requirements for solar panels for boats.

What to Consider When Buying Solar Panels?

Since solar panels are an expensive addition to your asset list, here are a couple of essentials to remember when purchasing.

The size of panels is directly related to the size of your boat. You must get something to match the energy requirements of your boat or greater. A solar panel too small might not power it and leave you frustrated. Other than this, smaller products have less battery time which means they will turn off much quicker than something explicitly designed for the size of your boat.

From PVC to glass covering and fully flexible panels, the type you choose determines their cost. This helps you establish your budget according to your needs. A glass-fronted solar panel is among the most budget-friendly options, but they are not as weather resistant. Besides this, a polycarbonate version is more expensive, but they are incredibly weather resistant and have a longer life.

Accessories

A charge controller or maintainer is an essential component available for your boat’s solar panels. This product protects your panels from battery damage. They prevent any risk of overheating, battery discharge, or sudden drops. A charge controller is essential if you want to elongate the battery’s life. Most brands also offer mount brackets, so you don’t have to purchase them separately.

How Do Solar Panels for Boats Work?

Solar panels for boats work just like any other portable energy provider. To install it successfully, you must have four components: the solar panel itself, charge controller, inverter, and battery. When solar panels in the boat hit sunlight, they convert it into the electrical current, supplying your boat with the required energy.

Boat solar panels can work without a charger maintainer (controller), but there is a risk of overcharging your device. Therefore, you must keep it in place to avoid any risk of battery damage.

The need for an inverter depends on the number of appliances that need a charge. For instance, if you wish to charge multiple devices other than the boat, consider buying a large-capacity product.

You can opt for professional installation if offered by the brand or any other reputed company. But individuals who have the basics can do it all by themselves. However, you must make sure that all the relevant accessories are available at your convenience.

Installation

The installation method is divided into three main stages. The first stage is to conduct an energy assessment. In this, you will determine the level of energy that your boat needs to function. Buy a panel that has a higher voltage than your requirements. This gives more room and flexibility to charge other devices.

Check whether the solar panel can produce that level of energy. Once the capacity is determined, you can decide the exterior of your panels. In most cases, you choose between glass-fronted, polycarbonate, and fully flexible panels.

What Are Care Requirements to Enhance the Life of Solar Panels for Boats?

Caring for solar panels is essential as they are a long-term investment and should last accordingly.

Most solar panels are designed to last two to three decades. Caring for them is fairly simple but requires regular attention. All you have to do is keep them clean from dirt, leaves, and other obstructions. Solar panels from reputable brands always come with a warranty for a couple of years.

Always get a professional repair from the brand in case of any damage. Even if your warranty has expired, we recommend taking your boat’s solar panels to a professional. They might cost a bit more than a local mechanic, but your panels get the treatment they require.

Another factor to consider here is the useful life of your solar panel. This indicates that they will not be as effective as they age. The depreciation in their quality is slow and gradual.

If your product has met the end of its useful life, it won’t stop working but will get more prone to damage. So instead of getting frustrated with why your solar panel for boats isn’t working properly, consider getting a replacement from the same brand or changing your product.

Cleaning

To clean a solar panel, use lukewarm water with a mild, non-acidic detergent and apply water pressure to remove any visible dirt and debris. Panels for boats are relatively smaller, so you won’t need a lot of supply. Clean any unwanted spots with a damp cloth and leave it to dry. Avoid applying water pressure on smaller models as they might not sustain the burden.

What Are the Properties of Charge Controllers for Solar Panels for Boats?

Charge controllers are an essential component. They help protect your panels’ battery from damage. There are three main types of charge controllers available.

Basic charge controllers

They use pulse width modulation to encode transmission information allowing control of the power supplied to boats or other devices. These are simple chargers that come in at an affordable price range. A primary charge controller is designed to control batteries of smaller solar panels. They might not deliver desirable results if connected with a high-capacity panel.

Mid-range charge controllers

These controllers also use pulse width modulation but feature an LCD display to indicate current charging levels. This helps the user keep track of the system and unplug the device when it’s ready to use.

Max power charge controllers

Designed for high-end and powerful solar panels, they are one of the most expensive charge controllers. You should only attach them to devices recommended by the brand itself. They also maximize the performance of panels.

Conclusion

Solar panels are a great way to maximize energy efficiency in your boat and create a durable backup. They are available in different sizes and capacities, so you can find a suitable fit for your boat. This article carefully reviewed the most in-demand solar panels for boats in 2023 that can make a difference in your overall experience. Besides the panel, you should also grab a top-notch charge controller that protects the device from damage and enhances its life.

Article Contributors

Sail magazine review team.

SAIL Magazine Review Team reports on best-selling products in sailing and boating. The SAIL Magazine editorial staff is not involved in the creation of this content. SAIL Magazine is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. The SAIL Review Team is composed of authors, editors, and sailors. Artificial Intelligence (large language models) may have been used in the research and creation of the content.

To ensure questions about product testing or a specific article are addressed, please contact [email protected]

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Learn About Solar Energy

Top 5 Best Solar Panels for Boats (2024 Marine Buyer’s Guide)

In this guide, you’ll learn:

Why photovoltaic (PV) equipment is great to have on your boat
Which panels are best suited for use on the water
What qualities make for a great boat solar panel

Each product and or company featured here has been independently selected by the writer. You can learn more about our review methodology here. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.

Why Should You Install Solar Panels On Your Boat?

Before we dive into the best panels to bring your boat into the world of clean energy, it’s worth discussing why you’d want a solar panel system on your boat in the first place.

There are a few use cases that are important to consider. These not only dictate whether or not you need panels on your boat, but they can also help you decide which system is the best and most cost-effective for you. We’ll discuss the different reasons to go solar on your boat below.

Blue Raven Solar

Regional Service

EcoWatch rating

Average cost

Industry-leading in-house financing
Competitive pricing
Excellent reputation
Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)

Charging Emergency Equipment

For anyone who has run into issues out at sea, the need for reliable emergency equipment is well understood. Whether you run out of gas, your boat breaks down or you have some other issue that precludes you from getting back to shore, having a way to reach out for help will keep your mind at ease.

Depending on the type of boat you have and how well it’s equipped, you may have a radio system, a satellite phone, a regular phone or some other communication device for emergencies. All of these require power, and having a solar system on your boat ensures that you’ll always have access to these devices.

Charging Recreational Equipment

Even if you’re not running into problems at sea, you might want the ability to charge recreational equipment. It’s always nice to have the ability to charge smartphones, e-readers, speakers and other devices you might use for entertainment.

This is especially important if you plan on spending a few days at sea and don’t want to rely on your boat’s batteries. Keeping those well charged for lighting, navigation tools and starting your boat’s engine is more important than getting your phone up to a full charge.

Quality of Life at Sea

For a lot of people, there’s a lot of joy in upgrading life at sea and making things just a little more comfortable. One of the perks of installing a solar system on your vessel is that you don’t have to worry about using your boat’s batteries for non-necessities.

For example, many recreational boaters connect their solar array to an electric cooler. Others use their solar modules to power electric water heaters for hot showers and constant hot water.

The possibilities for improving your at-sea experience with solar are really up to you, which is part of what makes bringing renewable energy to your boat so exciting.

What Are the Top 5 Best Solar Panels for Boats?

If you’re convinced you want to install solar on your boat, but you don’t know much about the available options, you might be overwhelmed by the choices. You’ll have access to seemingly countless brands and models.

To help you narrow down your options and choose panels that will meet your needs, we’ve done extensive research and chosen just a few product lines that we recommend. We’ll provide a quick breakdown of the different options below, and we’ll dive deeper into the specifications in later sections.

SunPower 170W Solar Panel

SunPower is a leader in the residential solar industry, so it’s no surprise that we found that the company also makes the best solar panels for use on boats.

This panel is pricey, but it’s significantly more powerful than most other options. At 170 watts, you can use these panels to charge your boat’s main battery, provide backup power for emergencies, or live large on the water by powering coolers, hot water heaters and much more.

This panel doesn’t come with a solar charge controller like many other options do, so not only is it expensive, but you’ll have to lay out more money for a controller, inverter and battery. However, we believe the efficiency and power output are well worth the investment.

These panels are also rated with a waterproof rating of IP67, which means they can withstand immersion in water up to about three feet for around half an hour. If you need more protection than that, you have bigger problems on your hands than losing a panel.

High-efficiency panel for maximum power
High-quality, durable materials
Trusted and reliable brand
Waterproof up to a meter for 30 minutes
Doesn’t include any equipment other than the panel

Renogy 100W Flexible Marine Solar Panel

The Renogy Flexible solar panel designed specifically for use on the water is our pick for the best bang for your buck. It’s about half the price of the SunPower panel, although it does have a little more than just half the power capacity.

At 100 watts, this panel is great for middle-of-the-road power. It can serve as a reliable backup source of energy, or you can use it to recharge phones, GPS devices, e-readers, laptops and other electronics. It’s possible to use it for the quality-of-life items mentioned above as well.

This panel also has an IP67 waterproof rating, which is ideal for maintaining peace of mind on the water. Although it’s less expensive than our top pick, it includes a controller and wiring to connect your panels. You’ll just need an inverter and a battery to complete your setup.

Excellent power output
IP67 waterproof rating
Includes controller and wiring
Reliable brand name
More expensive than many other options
Doesn’t include a battery or inverter

EcoWorthy 25W Solar Panel Kit

The EcoWorthy solar panel kit is one of the easiest photovoltaic (PV) systems to install, so it’s our top pick for those looking to get started with clean energy. You can purchase this kit with a 10 amp-hour (AH), 12-volt battery, and the MC4 connectors are plug-and-play for a quick and painless installation.

This panel has a much smaller output than our top two picks, so it’s best reserved for backup power or for charging cell phones and other small electronics.

This kit has a waterproof rating of IP65, which means it can withstand being submerged in around five feet of water for up to a half hour, and it will also be protected from sprays of water. This is a great option for maintaining peace of mind when you’re on the water, especially if conditions are rough.

Lastly, the kit includes a panel, a controller and wiring, so you’ll just need to add a battery and an inverter to complete your kit.

IP65 waterproof rating
Includes a controller and wiring
Very affordable
Significantly less power than our top picks – Only ideal for light-duty use

NewPowa 30W Solar Panel Kit

This 30 watt solar panel kit from NewPowa includes a panel, a controller and wiring. If you add a backup battery and an inverter, you can create a complete off-grid solar kit for less than $150 without leaving your home (thanks to Amazon).

With an output of 30 watts, this is the best marine solar panel for light-duty use, although you could use it for non-essential electronics like an electric cooler or a small solar water heater. Those more demanding devices should be low-use, though.

The panels and controller are IP67-rated, so they’re suitable for use on just about any boat.

Best of all, the partial solar kit is just $60, so this makes our list as our top budget pick for going solar without breaking the bank.

The kit has pre-drilled mounting holes and is compatible with a wide variety of mounting brackets. As such, your installation process should be relatively straightforward.

Includes a controller and plug-and-play wiring
Relatively low wattage

TopSolar Monocrystalline Solar Panel Kit

The off-grid solar kit from TopSolar is a great affordable option, and it’s what we’d recommend as a starter kit for backup energy for beginners. It only puts out 20 watts, so this is not the best option if you’re looking for something to charge your recreational devices or quality-of-life equipment. However, it’s an affordable and easy-to-install kit for emergency power.

Unfortunately, this kit doesn’t include a specific ingress protection (IP) rating, but the manufacturer does note that the product is waterproof. Based on customer reviews, it appears that this product is safe for use on the water.

The kit includes a small PV panel, a controller and wiring, so you’ll need to buy an inverter and battery separately if you want AC power or backup power.

Best of all, the kit is super easy to install. It has pre-drilled holes and is compatible with most mounting brackets and clips.

Great option for backup power
Easy to install
No official IP rating
Low wattage

What Should Boat Owners Look for When Buying Solar Panels?

Solar panels can be a great option for marine use, but not all panels and solar kits are suitable for use around water. Additionally, the panel you choose needs to be selected based on how you want to use your solar power system.

In the sections below, we’ll include a few key things you’ll want to consider when choosing a solar module for your boat.

Energy Needs

One of the first things we recommend thinking about is how much energy you need your panels to generate. This will help guide you to what size panel and how much energy output you need.

If you’re just looking for reliable backup power for your boat’s internal 12-volt battery, or you want your panels to provide power for emergencies only, you’ll probably only need a panel of around 20 watts.

If you use your boat frequently for entertaining guests, or you spend days at a time on your boat, you might want something above 100 watts to provide backup power plus electricity for electric coolers, water heaters and more. Consider everything you’ll use your solar array for and size your system accordingly.

The chart below provides a quick breakdown of what size solar panels you need for different purposes on a boat.

If you plan on using your panels to replace an on-board generator, you can calculate how much electricity your boat uses and then size your system accordingly. It’s always advisable to go a little bigger than you think you need, as cloud coverage and the angle of the sunlight hitting your panels can cause fluctuations in solar power production.

If you have high energy needs, we also recommend considering a Maximum Power Point Tracker (MPPT) controller, which is more efficient than a Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) controller, which is more common.

Space Available for Installation

Just like residential solar systems are limited by available roof square footage, marine solar systems are limited by the available space for installation. This is an important consideration to make to ensure you don’t buy a panel that you won’t be able to mount or use in your vessel.

Before you buy any equipment, we recommend checking the measurements of the panel and deciding where on your boat you can install it. Some portable, foldable panels come with kickstands for temporary setups, but the smaller of our top picks can be set up just about anywhere without mounting brackets as well.

Type of Solar Panel

You’ll have a few choices for the type of panel you purchase for your boat as well.

First, you’ll need to decide between thin-film solar panels, polycrystalline solar panels and monocrystalline solar panels.

Monocrystalline panels are the most efficient, so they’re the best suited for use on boats. The higher efficiency ratings will let you produce more energy per square foot, which is essential on a boat where space is limited. All of our recommendations above are monocrystalline.
Polycrystalline solar panels can also work, but they won’t provide as much solar power.
Thin-film panels are the most affordable, but they generate even less electricity and aren’t ideal for use where available space is minimal.

Second, you should think about whether you want a rigid solar panel with an aluminum frame or a semi-flexible one. Flexible panels contain special solar cells that can be a bit pricier, but they’re easier to install and are a bit more versatile. They can be mounted on curved surfaces, giving you more placement options.

Waterproof Rating

Since you’ll be using your panels on the water, it’s essential that you choose one with a good waterproof rating. Some of the best options are IP67 and IP65. These will ensure your panels and charge controllers or regulators remain safe and at low risk of fire even when exposed to moisture and direct water contact.

Accessories

Finally, you should consider what your kit comes with. Some come with only panels, so you’ll need to buy a controller, an inverter and a battery to complete your setup. Some come with a combination of these parts, although batteries and inverters aren’t commonly included. Some panels also include mounting brackets, although this is also uncommon.

Thinking about the additional equipment you’ll need to purchase after buying your panels will help you budget more effectively for your entire system.

How Do Solar Panels Work With Boats?

PV panels for boats work just like panels for residential use — they collect sunlight and route the energy either to a storage or use system.

Since boat solar systems are entirely off-grid, most require the following:

Solar panels
A charge controller
An inverter
Mounting brackets or other mounting hardware
A backup battery for energy storage

We’ll explain what each of these components does in the section below, and then we’ll get into how to set up and maintain your system.

Equipment for a Marine Solar System

best regulators for marine solar systems

The main components you’ll absolutely need for your boat solar system are PV panels and a controller. If you plan to store energy or use it to charge common electronics, you’ll also need a battery and an inverter.

The panels are the pieces of the system that collect energy from the sun. The electricity generated is then passed to your controller, which limits the amount of power that flows through the wires to your battery or device.

The charge controller helps prevent overcharging batteries or electronics when production is high, and it also prevents battery drainage when production is low. Some panels are equipped with bypass diodes to provide the same safety features.

The solar energy that’s collected is direct current (DC), while most electronics, including standard light fixtures, use alternating current (AC) power. An inverter is used to convert DC current to AC so that you can use your solar power to power devices directly. If you don’t have DC lights in your boat, for example, an inverter might be necessary to provide lighting.

A battery storage system is exactly what it sounds like: it’s a battery bank that stores solar energy for later use.

Solar batteries are useful for two main reasons on boats.

First, if you ever experience cloudy days, your solar production might very well drop below what you need to provide power to your devices. In that case, having a battery to pull stored energy from can be helpful in maintaining charging capability or electricity.
Additionally, a battery on board can be useful for maintaining backup power for emergencies. If your boat’s built-in battery ever fails or you need to charge emergency communication or navigation devices, a battery will come in handy.

Installation

Since you want your solar panels to be exposed to as much sun as possible, it’s best to install them at or near the highest point on your boat — often the bimini. This will prevent them from getting shade from other parts of your boat during the day, regardless of which direction your vessel is moving.

It’s also typically best to install your panels as close to parallel with the surface of the earth as possible. Since your boat will be moving around a lot, it’s not realistic to install them facing the path of the sun in the sky as you would on a home. Laying them flat gives you the best chance of always collecting at least some sunlight.

You, of course, need to consider available space as well, so remember to take measurements of your installation site and compare them to your panels before beginning the process.

Finally, you should consider where your batteries will be — if applicable — and where your wiring will run once your installation is complete. Keeping these things in mind will help ensure that the installation process goes as smoothly as possible.

Below, we’ll include a brief step-by-step guide on how to install a solar system on your boat.

First, take measurements of where your panels will be installed, the path the wiring will take to all components and where your battery, inverter and controller will be placed. Making sure you have enough room for all of your components will help avoid headaches once you get started.
We recommend mounting your batteries, inverter and controller first. These are generally the easier components to mount, so they’re the easiest to move once installed.
Next, mount your panels. The process for this will depend on the panels you choose and where you plan to install them. You should follow the installation instructions for the mounting brackets or hardware you purchase.
Finally, you can wire your system, beginning with the connection between the panels and the controller and then the connections to the inverter and battery.
You can test your system by using a voltmeter or by checking to see if your powered devices function as intended. Some controllers will also show you if your panels are providing energy and how much they’re producing.

For more guidance and information on how to set up your boat solar system, you can check out the video below:

Maintenance

Thankfully, solar systems are relatively maintenance-free once installed, although you should carry out routine system checks and cleaning to ensure you continue to enjoy maximum safety and energy production.

You should spray down your panels with water about once every six months to get any accumulation of dirt or salt off of them. This will help maximize energy generation. Around the same time, you should also check the wires and connectors for corrosion, which is more likely to occur if you use your boat in saltwater.

After major storms, it’s a good idea to ensure that none of the connections between components were lost. A simple disconnect could lead to your battery charging issues, which could be an issue if you ever need backup power.

Lastly, it’s worth mentioning that solar systems on boats are generally considered safe. There is a small risk of fire but provided you carry out the proper maintenance, you should avoid any serious issues.

Are Marine Solar Panels Worth It?

The answer to this question really depends on who you ask. For some boat owners, PV panels are essential. Not only can they provide backup power for emergencies, but they can also improve your quality of life at sea and the enjoyment of your boat.

For many people, these things are indispensable, so solar systems are well worth the investment. For certain types of boats — like small fishing boats and sailboats — solar panels will be the only source of electricity.

Other boat owners feel comfortable relying on generators if they have them, and some use their boats only for short durations, which makes having an on-board solar array less valuable.

For most people, though, having at least a small solar system to provide backup power for emergencies is worthwhile. From there, opting to up the size of your system to improve your time at sea isn’t hard to get behind.

FAQ: Marine Solar Panels

Below, we’ll answer a few of the most common questions we get about solar panel systems made for boats.

What are the best marine solar panels?

In our opinion, the best solar panels for boat use are the SunPower 170W solar panels. These are flexible panels that allow for easy and versatile installation.

They are some of the most efficient panels suitable for boat use, and they provide an incredible 170 watts each. This is enough power for just about anything you need electricity for on your boat and for emergency equipment in low-light conditions.

These panels are a bit expensive, and they don’t come with any additional equipment. However, the junction boxes have a waterproof rating of IP67, come with a five-year warranty for equipment and high efficiency and are made from high-quality, durable materials for years of use.

Will solar panels keep my boat battery charged?

Yes, solar panels can be hooked up to keep your boat’s 12 volt battery charged. However, you need to make sure you install a system that is sized appropriately for your boat’s needs.

You can check how much power your boat draws from its battery system by looking at the loads (in amps or watts) of each device. You can also use your battery monitor if you have one to check the energy demand of each individual component pulling power. Then, choose solar panels that produce a bit more energy than your system needs.

If you live in an area that experiences a lot of cloudy weather, you might want to size up your system even more to ensure your system generates enough electricity.

How much does it cost to put solar panels on a boat?

The cost to install a solar array on your boat can range from around $150 up to well over $1,000. Where in this range your total falls depends primarily on how much energy you need to produce.

If you’re looking for portable solar panels to take on and off a small boat with you for emergency use only — which is typical for sailboats and smaller boats that don’t normally have electricity — you’ll likely be looking at the $150 end of the spectrum.

If you have a much larger boat and want to be able to maintain power for your essential equipment and some non-essentials, then you’ll likely push your all-in cost closer to the higher end of the range.

What are the benefits of solar panels on boats?

Installing solar panels on your boat can provide quite a few key benefits, although the perks you’ll actually experience depend on your situation and your specific boat.

Perhaps most importantly, solar panels can charge your boat’s battery and maintain electricity for emergencies. Most systems — even small ones — can serve to charge your phone, GPS or other emergency devices in case you run into problems out on the water.

Larger systems can also provide power for recreational use, like charging phones, powering speaker systems, keeping beer cold and more.

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Solar panel question/Recommendations

Thread starter artleyt115
Start date Jan 25, 2023
Forums for All Owners
Ask All Sailors

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Power plan.pdf 54.7 KB Views: 66

You need to get a charge controller for the solar panel... then... yes... it would be okay to hook it up to your one battery. @Maine Sail has a few good writeups on this topic.

artleyt115 said: Hello everyone! It’s me again asking more power questions (Hooray!) so I have all my devices in the boat now and I drew up a little excel sheet of how much everything can consume and the hours we plan to run the devices. Now by my (poorly done) math I should expect around 4 day of battery usage of my one GEL 100ah battery with all electronic do-dads on the boat. Now some things (like the fridge) were put at the average consumption, though when I wrote the excel sheet, I put both the initial cooling wattage and the idle wattage (I plan to run that in the house over night before a trip to get the fridge to temp then put it in the boat). So, my questions; if I add another battery in parallel, in theory it should give me 4 days of capacity. If I add another battery, can I put a 200w solar panel on the boat and expect the batteries to be able to take the possible 30amp it can (potentially) produce. And can I put the same solar panel on just one battery for now (Until I buck up and buy the other one) and expect one battery to withstand it? Also (I know sorry) I have a 10a (2 bank) battery charger that I am hooking up, if I get two batteries in parallel can I put one bank on each battery? View attachment 212454 Click to expand

dlochner said: You're off to a good start. If you are unsure of your math, please post the spreadsheet so we can check the formulas, much easier than doing the math ourselves. A few comments: Pick one unit of power, either watt hours or amphours, it is much less confusing that way. Batteries placed in parallel should be of the same age and type to ensure the charges on the battery are balanced. This will lead to longer battery life. Lead Acid batteries generally have a maximum usable capacity of 50% of the total capacity, if the battery is fully recharged between discharges. Realistically, when cruising or when shore power is not accessible, they have a useable capacity of 40%. There are a few exceptions, carbon foam batteries and a couple of high end AGMs have a larger capacity, up to about 70%. Charging a battery is inefficient, it will take between 110% to 120% of the used ah to recharge the battery, i.e., for every 10 ah that is used, recharging will require 12 ah. Solar panels will average efficiencies can be expected to produce 3 times the nominal power each day. A 100 watt panel will produce about 300 watts (25 ah) on average per day, less on cloudy days, a little more on bright sunny days. High efficiency panels (expensive) panels can get close to 4 times. AGM batteries can generally absorb 20 to 40% of their rated capacity when charging in the bulk phase (constant current). This is written as .2C. A 100 ah battery can take a charge of 20 to 40 amps in the bulk phase. Reputable battery manufacturers will use the 20-hour discharge rate to label capacity. Less reputable ones will use the 10 hour rate which tends to yield a higher capacity rating, but less actual capacity in real life settings. A two bank charger can not deliver more than its rated capacity. When 2 batteries are connected, the charge current is divided between the two batteries. Your 10a charger will only put out 5a per battery, which will lead to under charging and very long charge times. Click to expand

dlochner said: You're off to a good start. If you are unsure of your math, please post the spreadsheet so we can check the formulas, much easier than doing the math ourselves. Click to expand

artleyt115 said: This is some really good information, from the sounds of it I should be able to use the 200W solar panel with no issues. (especially with a controller) I'll attach the sheet (though I did not use the formulas on the sheet I just hand did the math) I figured the charger was under powered for even one battery but I mainly figured it was a trickle charger to keep in the boat when I have it on a trailer. Though I didn't know about that absorption rate on the battery, that's awesome! Btw I heard through the grape vine that when a batteries are in parallel they have to be charged slower, is this true? (I don't think this is true but I thought I'd ask) Click to expand

Ralph Johnstone

artleyt115 said: The site wont let me post it :/ Click to expand

artleyt115 said: ... (especially with a controller) ... Click to expand

Timm R Oday25

A couple of thoughts . We also have 25 Oday . A 200 watt solar panel is going to take up an enormous amount of room . We mounted a 30 watt off the back of the rear pulpit . I ran the wiring inside the railing ,under the cockpit and into the regulator mounted on the back of the bulkhead . Most of the electronics you have listed most likely will only run randomly throughout the day . We actually have two solar panels, one for each battery . The "charging" we get from the outboard is maybe 3 to 4 amps . Normally ,we draw down one battery until we are at 12.3 volts . We then flip the battery selector switch to the other battery . While we don't have refrigerator, the auotpilot uses several amps at a time when in use. We've been able to stay out for as long as a week this way

Timm R Oday25 said: A 200 watt solar panel is going to take up an enormous amount of room . Click to expand

200 Watt 12 Volt Flexible Monocrystalline Solar Panel

Highest Efficiency (up to 25.4%)And Best Flexible, Rigid, And Walkable Marine Solar Panels For Your Boat in 2023. We'll help you decide on the right solar panels to meet your power needs.

Maintenance of Flexible Solar Panels

dlochner said: I didn't realize the site blocked excel files, probably because of macros that could hide malicious code. You must use a controller. The Victron controllers with Bluetooth are a good choice, easy to program and efficient. When batteries are in parallel or series they act as one large battery. Batteries in parallel will increase the ah capacity and the charge capacity will increase, but not the acceptance rate, it will still be .2C, but 20% of 200 ah instead of 100ah. Click to expand

Timm R Oday25 said: A couple of thoughts . We also have 25 Oday . A 200 watt solar panel is going to take up an enormous amount of room . We mounted a 30 watt off the back of the rear pulpit . I ran the wiring inside the railing ,under the cockpit and into the regulator mounted on the back of the bulkhead . Most of the electronics you have listed most likely will only run randomly throughout the day . We actually have two solar panels, one for each battery . The "charging" we get from the outboard is maybe 3 to 4 amps . Normally ,we draw down one battery until we are at 12.3 volts . We then flip the battery selector switch to the other battery . While we don't have refrigerator, the auotpilot uses several amps at a time when in use. We've been able to stay out for as long as a week this way Click to expand

rgranger said: Here are some more ideas and products... Highest Efficiency (up to 25.4%)And Best Flexible, Rigid, And Walkable Marine Solar Panels For Your Boat in 2023. We'll help you decide on the right solar panels to meet your power needs. Marine solar panels with best Sunpower cells, 23.7-25.4%+ efficient, A+ grade solar cells only. All info and consulting available to help you choose the ideal solar panels for your needs. Visit or call, we're more than happy to help. www.custommarineproducts.com Maintenance of Flexible Solar Panels maintenance of your flexible solar panels is easy, simply routinely keep them clean, check for structural integrity, and check the efficiency using monitoring functions in the charge regulators to ensure all is operating at optimum performance. coastalclimatecontrol.com View attachment 212460 View attachment 212461 View attachment 212462 Click to expand

rgranger said: You know.... this rabbit hole is deeeeep! We could start talking about electric outboards, LiFePO4 batteries etc. Click to expand

artleyt115 said: Yea it is, I dont plan to move to LiFEPO4 but I wanted an electric outboard originally just not too many good ones out there yet :/ Click to expand

Cruise – Electric Outboards with 6 to 25 HP – Torqeedo

rgranger said: Actually this Torqeedo Cruise is well reviewed and is equivalent to a 6 HP. My next pocket cruiser will get an upgrade to something like this... Cruise – Electric Outboards with 6 to 25 HP – Torqeedo Torqeedo Cruise outboard motors are state-of-the-art electric drive systems for boats up to 10 tons. With a respectable performance of 6 to 25 HP. www.torqeedo.com I go sailing for the silence and running an OB kind of ruins it for me. Click to expand

I'm confused by the 87w/12w rating on your fridge. You listed 288.0 WH, which is 12w * 24H. 12 watts seems too low. Let's assume 30w on average. Your inverter will draw power, even though you have N/A listed. A Victron Multiplus 2000 will draw anywhere from 3-9 watts depending on how search mode is configured. Let's assume 6 watts draw, 24 hours per day. Your depth meter is only used when sailing, not 24 hours. Call it 6 hours. Using your figures in addition to the assumptions above, I get a total of 3196.2 watts per day. A 200w panel will contribute around 800 watts per day. Figure in losses for voltage drop, battery efficiency and operating with an 80% depth of discharge, you'll need 227 AH of storage or 3 100AH batteries for 1 day away from shore power. Limit the PS4 to a couple of hours per day and you can eliminate 1 battery. But it might cause a mutiny. The numbers seem high but math is math.

mermike said: I'm confused by the 87w/12w rating on your fridge. You listed 288.0 WH, which is 12w * 24H. 12 watts seems too low. Let's assume 30w on average. Your inverter will draw power, even though you have N/A listed. A Victron Multiplus 2000 will draw anywhere from 3-9 watts depending on how search mode is configured. Let's assume 6 watts draw, 24 hours per day. Your depth meter is only used when sailing, not 24 hours. Call it 6 hours. Using your figures in addition to the assumptions above, I get a total of 3196.2 watts per day. A 200w panel will contribute around 800 watts per day. Figure in losses for voltage drop, battery efficiency and operating with an 80% depth of discharge, you'll need 227 AH of storage or 3 100AH batteries for 1 day away from shore power. Limit the PS4 to a couple of hours per day and you can eliminate 1 battery. But it might cause a mutiny. The numbers seem high but math is math. Click to expand

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Best Solar Panels For Sailboats of 2024

Sailing uses the power of the wind to move, so why not use the power of the sun to charge your batteries? Solar panels offer the best way to charge boat batteries. This method can also save the engine from being used just for charging. Getting the best solar panels for sailboats means choosing the right size and power for your boat.

But, how much power will you need? Will your panels be able to keep up even on cloudy days? Do you plan to sail in cold water or deep in the tropics? Do you need the panels to sit on a curved surface? There’s a surprising amount of factors to consider when purchasing sailboat solar panels.

Whether you’re replacing old panels or buying for the first time, let us do the hard work of comparing the best solar panels for your boat.

For more of our top sailing gear recommendations, check out the Best Wind Generators for Sailboats .

QUICK ANSWER – THE BEST SOLAR PANELS FOR SAILBOATS

Nature Power Monocrystalline
Nature Power Rigid
Renogy Starter Kit (4 panels)
Newpowa Poly Solar Panel
Acopower Polycrystalline
Nature Power 90W Rigid
Newpowa 150W
Suaoki SunPower
Eco-Worthy Semi-Flexible

SAILBOAT SOLAR PANEL REVIEWS

Nature power monocrystalline.

Check out the latest price on: Amazon | West Marine

BEST FOR: Efficient high-power use

WEIGHT: Unspecified

WATTS/AMPS: 120W/6.6A

SIZE: 45.1” x 33.6” x 3”

PROS: Foldable for easy storage and portability, pop-out legs that allow it to easily sit at an angle, sturdy design

CONS: On the upper end of the price spectrum, short warranty

NATURE POWER RIGID

BEST FOR: Energy-hungry boats

WATTS/AMPS: 165W/9.4A

SIZE: 57.8” x 26.3” x 1.4”

PROS: Powerful and efficient, scratch resistant and anti-reflective coating, well-built aluminum frame, easy-to-use connections

CONS: Powerful but expensive, only suitable for larger boats with a big flat space to set it up on

RENOGY STARTER KIT (PACK OF 4 PANELS)

Check out the latest price on: Amazon

BEST FOR: Large boats needing lots of power

WEIGHT: 18.0lbs

WATTS/AMPS: 400W/22A

SIZE: 4 x 47.0” x 21.3” x 2.0”

PROS: Includes x4 100W panels along with a charge controller and everything else needed to set up, ideal for sailors looking for a lot of power, easy mounting system, great price for a comprehensive kit

CONS: Rigid solar panels can only be on flat surfaces or mounted on rails, included charge controller might not be the charge controller for your needs

NEWPOWA POLY SOLAR PANEL

BEST FOR: Keeping small battery banks topped up

WEIGHT: 6.3lbs

WATTS/AMPS: 30W/1.7A

SIZE: 27.0” x 14.3” x 1.9”

PROS: Sturdy design, small and slim making it ideal for stern rail, wattage should be enough to trickle-charge medium battery banks, very affordable

CONS: Rigid design means placement is limited, heavy for a small panel

ACOPOWER POLYCRYSTALLINE

BEST FOR: Larger sailboat trickle-charging

WEIGHT: 6.9lbs

WATTS/AMPS: 35W/2A

SIZE: 29.9” x 16.1” x 1.7”

PROS: Looks neat with silver aluminum frame, should be able to easily keep batteries topped up and contribute to energy requirements when boat is in use, very affordable and slim, other wattages available

CONS: Weighty, aluminum frames can have sharp corners

NATURE POWER 90W RIGID

Check out the latest price on: West Marine

BEST FOR: Permanent mounting

WEIGHT: 15.2lbs

WATTS/AMPS: 90W/4.9A

SIZE: 33.7” x 26.5” x 1.0”

PROS: Sturdy frame can be mounted on gantry rails permanently, good power output and small enough to be mounted alongside an identical panel for double power, long warranty, reputable brand

CONS: Awkward to move about the deck so not ideal for portable panel, fairly heavy

NEWPOWA 150W

BEST FOR: Medium to large sailboats

WEIGHT: 24.4lbs

WATTS/AMPS: 150W/8.3A

SIZE: 58.4” x 26.6” x 1.2”

PROS: Great for permanent mounting, powerful and well-built,

CONS: Very heavy, only comes with 3ft of cable which may well be too short and require extension

SUAOKI SUNPOWER

BEST FOR: Smaller, lightweight sailboats

WEIGHT: 4.8lbs

WATTS/AMPS: 100W/5.6A

SIZE: 43.3” x 22.4” x 0.1”

PROS: 30-degree curve possible making this ideal for boat coach roofs, very thin makes for less dirt buildup and less wind resistance, good price for a powerful panel

CONS: Cable connections are on the top of the panel which may encourage corrosion and UV damage

ECO-WORTHY SEMI-FLEXIBLE

BEST FOR: Coach roofs and curved deck areas

WATTS/AMPS: 100W/5.5A

SIZE: 47.4” x 21.6” x 0.1”

PROS: Capable of a 30-degree curve making it suitable for coach roofs and curved decks, thin and durable construction

CONS: Connector on top allowing salt build-up and accidental damage

COMPARISON TABLE – THE BEST SOLAR PANELS FOR SAILBOATS

How to choose the best solar panels for sailboats, 1. required energy.

Buying solar panels for your sailboat involves more than going over a few models at random. You need to know how much power you’ll need daily. Also, you need to determine whether you will rely solely on solar power or use the engine as well.

SOLAR AND ENGINE

Will you use solar power most of or all the time? If yes, then you will need higher power, larger or more solar panels. If you plan to use the engine more, then you won’t need as much solar power.

Your sailing goals come into play in this decision. If you want to cruise the intercoastal waterways, chances are you’ll be using your engine a lot. If you plan on cruising the Caribbean, you can often rely on good winds for sailing.

Once you’ve worked out how you plan on powering your sailboat – solar and engine, or just solar – you’ll need to work out your daily amp draw . If you’ll be running a fridge, freezer, water maker, VHF and SAT NAV all day long, you’re definitely going to need a lot of power!

It can be difficult to determine how many amps your sailboat will need, especially if you still don’t have all the electronics you plan to bring on board. Some products will give you an idea of their power draw in their technical specifications. For others that don’t provide that information, you may have to settle for an estimate.

Once you have an idea of your daily amp draw, then you can work out the solar output required to keep up with that power draw. But there are other considerations too, namely, actual output vs maximum output.

ACTUAL OUTPUT VS MAXIMUM OUTPUT

While a 90W solar panel might sound like it’ll give out 90W, remember that this is its maximum output. That is, it refers to a clean panel in full sunshine. It won’t be giving anywhere near that output on cloudy days. In the case of a fixed panel, ask yourself if the sail will be casting a shadow over it on one tack.

Unless you plan on running the engine to top up the batteries on cloudy days, you will find yourself needing enough solar panel output for these times. Make sure to also consider the times when your panels aren’t giving out their optimum performance.

TEMPERATURE CHANGES

If you’re starting in Nova Scotia, your fridge won’t take much power to keep it at a cool temperature. But, what happens when you sail south to go diving in Mexico ? Suddenly, the water temperature is higher and the fridge would have to work twice as hard to stay cool. While good insulation is a bonus on a sailboat, it’s important to remember that atmospheric changes like temperature may mean an increase (or decrease) in your power requirement.

ARE WE TALKING AMPS OR WATTS?

While you need to know how many amps your sailboat will draw on a daily basis, solar panels are sold by watts. There’s no need for that to be confusing though, as we’ve also provided the amps in the chart. You can read more about watts and amps to get a better understanding.

2. HOW MANY SOLAR PANELS DO YOU NEED?

Many sailboats have more than one solar panel. This means you won’t need to move the panels to follow the sun or as the boat shifts at anchor. Having multiple solar panels also allows you to have smaller panels, which tend to get in the way less. Your required power output can be divided among them as well.

If you need 200W a day, then you could have three 90W solar panels on different parts of the boat and be covered power-wise, even on different tacks.

How much space do you have on deck? Where you place your solar panels is very boat and sailor dependent. Day-sailing in hot places? Solar panels on the bimini rack are an easy solution. Long-distance cruising? You’ll need solar panels that are efficient yet out of the way to improve windward performance.

If you spend a large amount of time on board, your energy consumption will be higher. You’ll need your solar panels to be as efficient as possible. Many cruisers have panels on top of gantries on the stern to keep them in sunshine all the time. This is terrible for sailing performance, so you have to think about where you want to compromise. Don’t forget to consider the other on-deck items, such as your paddle board , as well.

Solar panels generally come in two types: mono- and multicrystalline and amorphous thin film silicone. However, all solar panels listed in this article will be mono- or multicrystalline as they are the most effective.

MONO- AND MULTI-CRYSTALLINE

Efficient and sturdy, these panels will probably make up your core solar panel collection. For everything on board like lights, fridge, radio and navigation electrics, mono-and multicrystalline are your best bets. They aren’t forgiving on cloudy days though, and even a shadow over the corner of a panel will pull down the output by a lot.

AMORPHOUS THIN FILM SILICONE

Not as efficient as crystalline panels, amorphous panels are cheaper and flexible. They’re good for trickle-charging batteries while the boat is left unattended.

Solar panels are expensive, but their prices have been dropping over the years. If you only use your sailboat for summer weekends, chances are you won’t need pricey, hyper-efficient panels. You just need enough to keep up with your power consumption for two days a week and let the trickle-charge solar panel do the rest.

Take your solar panel budget and split it between the number of solar panels you think you’ll need. Keep in mind though that you’ll most likely need to buy a charge controller as well.

For more of our top sailing gear recommendations, check out these popular buyer's guides:

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Estimating Solar Panel Size for Boats

The starting point for a successful solar panel installation is quantifying your requirements. We present here a simple analysis based on the test boat used for our recent report on choosing and installing a solar panel. Some values are from experience, and others are accepted rules of thumb. For more details on choosing and installing a solar panel, see the March 2018 issue of Practical Sailor online.

Energy Balance

Look up the current draw of each piece of equipment (confirm with panel ammeter if available) and estimate the number of hours operated. Record the number and capacity of your batteries, recognizing that you cannot draw below 50% charge without shortening their life, and that you will seldom charge past 85% while away from the dock-as a result, only 35% of nameplate capacity is really useable. Finally, total your charging sources, including engine, wind, and solar. For solar, take the rated wattage x 5 hours/12 = amp-hours while on passage and wattage x 7 hours/12 = amp-hours while at anchor (sails do not shade and the boom can be rigged out to the side). This is far below the rated capacity-sailors in the tropics will do better, and sailors farther north or sailing in the winter more poorly-but this is an accepted starting point.

Estimating Panel Output

How many days can you manage with poor generation? Are you willing to economize during a long cloudy stretch? Will you recharge at a marina or by running the engine periodically? Long-term cruisers appreciate an abundance of power, while the occasional cruisers may be satisfied with less.

Saving Power

Every AH (amp-hour) consumed has a real cost in weight, panels, and dollars. If you can reduce consumption by 50 AH/day you will save a battery (the useable capacity), a 120 watt panel, and perhaps a mounting arch. The cost savings might be $500 and 150 pounds for just a few bulbs.

Lighting. Switch from incandescent to LED and fluorescent lighting, starting with the lights you use most. We use LEDs and fluorescent for the anchor, salon, and cockpit lights, but since we seldom run at night, we left the running and steaming lights alone. Likewise, the deck light and many task lights remain halogen or incandescent; they are not used enough to matter.
Go to bed at night and get up with the sun. Big savings in juice and more time to play.
The gas solenoid is a big user for us; it runs the propane fridge and cabin heater, so it is on for long hours, but we can turn it off at night or go without refrigeration now and then.
Fans. Run them on low speed and watch the hours. A wind scoop doesn’t use power.
Instruments. Do you actually need GPS and other instruments full-time on passage? Twenty years ago they didn’t even exist. Balance the sails to minimize the load on the autopilot.

If you’re not sure if it’s time to upgrade or replace your solar panels, the upcoming June 2023 issue offers detailed guidance on evaluating old solar panels and house batteries. If you are upgrading your boat’s electrical system, adding new accessories, or just replacing some wires, our recently updated six-volume ebook Marine Electrical Systems covers everything you need to know about electrical systems–including Batteries, System Installation (including rewiring and lightning protection), Panels, Monitors, Charging, Alternative Energy, and AC Systems.

Power Usage Table

Drew Frye is a frequent contributor to Practical Sailor. He blogs at www.saildelmarva.blogspot.com

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Choosing the Best Marine Solar Panels for Your Boat

There’s nothing like kicking back and relaxing in a boat all to yourself. But while sailing the waves and soaking in the sun is an awesome getaway, you’ll still need to think about how to generate electricity while on board, especially for running your boat battery.

Get free power through solar energy with the best marine solar panels. Not only are they easy to set up and use, but you also save money by relying on renewable energy instead of paying expensive electricity bills like usual.

But how do you look for the most suitable solar panels for boats if there are dozens of solar panel types out there? Well, you’ve come to the right marine solar panels review. There are three key things you need to keep your eyes out for when choosing marine solar panel kits for your beloved boat.

Waterproof: Since you’ll be traveling across bodies of water, you have to anticipate that your solar panels could get wet. Make sure your solar panels are resilient against water damage through waterproof designs.
Flexible: Boats have curved surfaces, unlike roofs that are flat and can do with rigid panels. Marine solar panels can be straight and conventional, but it would be a big help if they were flexible so that you can mount them on tricky surfaces on your boat. Flexible solar panels hug irregular surfaces, ensuring they don’t topple over as your boat moves.
Thin: Boats are small spaces as it is. You don’t need bulky, rigid panels occupying more space than necessary. Go for ones that are about an inch or so thick. Thinner solar panels are sleek and don’t take up too much space, so they’re a must for marine solar solutions.

There are many other factors you need to consider when looking through boat solar panels for sale. Check out the rest of the important factors in our buying guide below.

Need more help picking out a good boat solar panel kit? Look through this rundown of solar panels for boats reviews to see some of the most popular options.

Best Overall

Renogy Monocrystalline Solar Panel

Premium Choice

Topsolar Solar Panel

Editor’s Pick

ECO-WORTHY Solar Panel

Table of Contents

1. Renogy 100W 12V Monocrystalline Solar Panel

2. topsolar 20-watt monocrystalline solar panel, 3. eco-worthy 25w off-grid solar panel, 4. renogy extremely flexible solar panel, 5. suner power 30w polycrystalline solar panel, 6. newpowa monocrystalline 100-watt solar panel, 7. rich solar polycrystalline solar panel, 8. topsolar 100-watt 12-volt solar panel kit, 9. newpowa monocrystalline 30-watt solar panel, what to look for when looking through marine solar panel options, how many solar panels do i need to run a boat, how many amps does a marine refrigerator use, how do you install solar panels on a boat, top-rated marine solar panel reviews.

Material: Monocrystalline
Wattage: 100W
Voltage: 12V

This solar panel kit by Renogy is awesome because it’s an all-in-one solar system. It includes all the necessary cables and accessories to get the show on the road.

The convenient kit includes a 100-watt solar panel, the Wanderer 30A PWM controller, and connectors and adapters. It even has Z brackets for mounting your solar panel. I like that I didn’t have to purchase all these separately.

I like that the Wanderer charge controller is negative ground, which means it prevents any overcharging and short-circuiting issues with our batteries.

Now, for the solar panel itself, I appreciated how the frame was made of sturdy, high-quality, corrosion-resistant aluminum, making the panel extra durable.

Its monocrystalline solar cells can convert 21% of the solar power to free energy you can use on your boat. That’s pretty high compared to other solar panels.

Plus, the production power of this solar panel kit is quiet, so it won’t bother you when you need silence.

Includes the necessary connectors, controller, and mounting brackets
The negative ground controller stops overcharging and short circuits
The solar panel has a durable, corrosion-resistant aluminum frame
Monocrystalline cells convert 21% of solar power into free energy for you
Power production is quiet, so it will never disturb users
The charge controller has no LCD screen
Wattage: 20W

This Topsolar solar panel kit is another one that offers a lot of accessories. It comes with a charge controller, some alligator clips to hold your cables and connectors properly, and even an O-ring terminal.

The solar panel itself is made of thick, high-class tempered glass to protect the cells inside. It’s framed with aluminum for extra sturdiness as well. I love that it’s made of such premium materials, so I never have to worry about it being too flimsy or break apart easily.

All in all, the solar panel weighs a mere 4.8 lbs, making it easy to carry around. It’s lightweight enough for effortless lifting and transporting when I’m about to install it or move it to another area.

This marine solar panel is resistant to harsh weather, thanks to its maximum static load of 2,400 Pa. Because of this, you can use it worry-free, even in inclement climates.

There are pre-drilled holes at the back of the panel to make it easier to set up with screws and grommets.

Comes with a charge controller, alligator clips, and O-ring terminal
The panel is made of tempered glass and an aluminum framing
Weighs only 4.8 lbs, so it’s easy to lift and carry around
Resistant to harsh weather like wind or snow
Has pre-drilled holes at the back to make set-up easier
Doesn’t include mounting brackets
Material: Polycrystalline
Wattage: 25W

A long lifespan is one of the top factors I consider when looking for a marine solar panel. This one by ECO-WORTHY ticks off that box because it is built to last.

It’s made with highly efficient cells to give me adequate power output. The framing is designed with aluminum to make it sturdy, increasing its longevity.

This off-grid solar panel kit comes with a convenient charge controller. Its interface may not have a modern display screen, but it does have light indicators that update in real-time so you can tell how far your charge is coming along. It also has a USB port to let you charge your phones and other small devices.

The solar panel set comes with SAE connector cables to help users set up. They’re quite long and stretch to 9.84 feet, giving us maximum flexibility for moving our panel and charge controller around.

ECO-WORTHY offers a one-year warranty for this kit. You’ll also have access to the brand’s 24/7 hotline in case you have questions or concerns with your solar panel.

Made with high-efficiency solar cells and aluminum for longevity
Charge controller has power indicators that update in real-time
There’s a USB port on the charge controller for small devices
The SAE connector cables are quite long at 9.84 feet
A one-year warranty with 24/7 technical support from ECO-WORTHY
One 25W solar panel might not be enough to power multiple appliances

Setting up solar panels on curved surfaces is tough, but with these Renogy flexible solar panels for boats, it’s never a challenge.

These flexible solar panels bend to a 248-degree arc, which is a lot more flexible than other bendable panels. This is excellent for boat and yacht decks that are curved.

The panels are made of monocrystalline cells that emit 100 watts, ensuring a strong and reliable power supply for our consumption.

Transporting and setting up these flexible solar panels is a walk in the park, thanks to its lightweight and super thin design. They’re never bulky and retain the smooth silhouette of your boat.

They’re thin and light because they’re designed with advanced polymer, which is 70% lighter than other materials traditionally used to build solar panels.

These flexible panels are made to withstand bad weather. They resist impact and don’t get damaged in heavy loads of rain. You’ll find that they even tolerate up to 5,400Pa of snow.

Bends to a 248-degree arc to fit irregular and curved surfaces and decks
Monocrystalline panels emit a consistent 100 watts
Super lightweight and ultra-thin, making it a breeze to transport
Made with advanced polymer that is 70% lighter than traditional materials
Resists impact and damage from heavy loads of rain and snow
The cables in the solar panel kit aren’t the same length

These solar panels by SUNER POWER are built with high-efficiency polycrystalline cells, giving me great performance even with the small energy output. They emit up to 30 watts of power to use as free energy on the boat.

This kit charges our batteries safely. It goes through a strict three-step intelligent algorithm to make sure our battery doesn’t go through overheating and short-circuiting, so I know I’m extra safe.

You’ll also find bright LED lights on the charge controller that indicate how the charge is coming for easy monitoring. It’s a convenient way to make sure our charging is right on track even when we’re doing other errands on the boat.

Tough weather conditions are nothing when it comes to this marine solar panel. It’s built with IP65 waterproof technology, so I don’t have to worry about the climate damaging my solar panel kit. It can even resist erosion, rusting, and damage from the sun’s UV rays.

Polycrystalline cells emit 30 watts of power to use as free energy
Charges our battery safely with an intelligent three-step algorithm
Has bright LED light indicators so you can see how your charging is going
Withstands tough weather because of IP65 waterproof technology
Resists erosion, rusting, and UV damage in finicky weather
The wires could be longer

This Newpowa monocrystalline panel is smaller in size compared to most other panels. It comes up to about 45 x 20 inches, making it more manageable than bigger ones.

It’s made of monocrystalline cells that are highly efficient in turning power from the sun into free energy for our consumption and charging.

The panel’s aluminum framing prevents any corrosion, which extends the lifespan of the solar panel kit. That means I won’t have to constantly replace it.

The marine solar panel and some of its accessories are made to be waterproof. That way, they’ll survive even the most horrible weather conditions as you sail.

Venturing to areas and cities without much bright sunlight is no problem for this marine solar panel kit. The junction box is equipped with bypass diodes that ensure users don’t get any power outages even in cloudy, shaded areas.

Smaller in size and more manageable than other solar panels
The monocrystalline panels are efficient in converting power into energy
Aluminum framing prevents corrosion, extending the solar panel’s life
These monocrystalline solar panels can survive horrible weather
Junction box has diodes to let your power work even in low-light areas
You don’t get the rated 100-watt output every single day

This RICH SOLAR panel is one of my favorites for travelling. I love it because it allows for more sunlight absorption. The panels’ anti-reflective, high-transmission film also helps make energy conversion more efficient.

Because of these factors, this panel works extremely well even in areas that are low in sunlight . So when I know I’m going to be sailing to cloudy shores, I make sure to bring this panel along.

This set uses quick-connect cables that don’t take more than a few seconds to fix up. It makes installation fast and easy even for beginners.

There are also about 14 holes on the panel so that you can simply screw it onto your mount. That means you can set it up without the complication of drilling the holes yourself. The design is also compatible with a variety of mounts, further adding to user’s convenience.

Its anti-reflective panels are high-transmission for even more efficiency
High conversion efficiency even in areas without bright sunlight
Uses quick-connect cables, so setting up is fast and easy even for beginners
There are 14 pre-drilled holes on the panel for quick installation
Works with many types of mounts
Doesn’t include mounting brackets, so you have to purchase some

This solar panel by Topsolar emits 100 watts of power to charge any 12-volt battery while you’re on the go. It’s perfect for cars, RVs, and a huge range of off-grid uses, but it works excellently for boats too.

The panel is made with monocrystalline cells, protected by a coating of high-quality tempered glass. This protective layer also prevents wear-and-tear in the long term. Meanwhile, anodized aluminum frames the panel, protecting the edges from corrosion.

You get a V-shaped bracket along with your panel in this kit. This bracket allows users to tilt the panel in whatever direction they desire. It’s very helpful when we’re trying to position the panel to face the sunlight directly.

The charge controller this solar panel comes with is made with IP67-rated waterproof technology. This means it prevents any water damage from ruining our solar system.

Charges any standard 12-volt battery while you’re on the go
A wide range of uses
The mono cells are protected with wear-resistant tempered glass
The framing is made of anodized aluminum to protect the panel’s edges
Comes with a V-shaped bracket to tilt the panel in the direction of the sun
The charge controller is made with IP67 technology to avoid water damage
The panel is quite heavy at almost 16 lbs, making it heavy to carry

This Newpowa panel emits 30 watts of power. That may sound small to some people, but it’s perfect for charging small devices and running just a few appliances on a short boat ride.

It’s made with high-efficiency monocrystalline cells. These cells allow for a more compact panel design that is smaller and more manageable than the brand’s polycrystalline panels.

Multiple layers of the panel protect its cells. This includes an ethylene-vinyl-acetate encapsulation, iron tempered glass, and even a TPT back sheet that can help with heat dissipation.

There are wires already pre-attached to the panel, one at 3 ft and another at 1 ft. Both of these have Anderson connectors as well, so users don’t have to fuss about setting them up themselves.

The panel also has holes pre-drilled in them, so it’s ready to be screwed into your mount or bracket of choice.

Provides 30 watts of power, perfect for small devices and short trips
Made with high-efficiency mono cells that allow for a compact design
Cells are protected by multiple layers, like tempered glass and TPT backing
The wires and connectors are pre-attached, which is great for beginners
Comes with mounting holes already drilled on the back of the panel
The solar panel isn’t weatherproof, so you can only use it on sunny days

HQST 100W 12V Solar Panel (Outdated)

This 100-watt solar panel by HQST is designed for efficiency and durability. The panel itself is anti-reflective, thanks to thick and durable tempered glass. It’s also lined with aluminum in its framing, which resists corrosion and damage to the panel’s edges.

Polycrystalline solar panels like this one are made with high-efficiency cells that convert more power into energy than the usual panel. They also contain diodes to bypass any power outages or drops when your boat travels into a shaded area.

This kit’s junction box is rated IP65, which means it’s waterproof. That way, it can resist damage from water jets and uncontrollable weather.

Installation is a breeze with the pre-drilled holes at the back of this panel. It’s perfect for newbies that don’t want to call in a professional to set it up.

The anti-reflective panel is made with sturdy tempered glass
An aluminum frame
Polycrystalline panels efficiently convert the sun’s energy into power
Contains diodes to bypass power outages when you go into low-light areas
The junction box is rated IP65 to resist damage from undesirable weather
Comes with holes drilled at the back of the solar panel for easy mounting
The wires on the panel are quite short

WindyNation 100W Off-Grid Solar Panel (Outdated)

I love that this solar panel by WindyNation gives off a consistent 100 watts of power, provided that the panels are positioned directly under the sun. That makes it an ultra-reliable panel that isn’t flip-floppy when powering our devices.

The solar system comes with many accessories you’ll need to set up and use your panel. There’s a quality charge controller, some mounting brackets, and all the necessary cables needed.

My favorite part about this system is the charge controller. It has a high-quality LCD screen that displays all the information I need to see about my battery as it charges. It even has a sensor to help me monitor the battery’s temperature.

I can also choose and adjust what information settings are shown on the screen, depending on my preference. Buyers can get whatever information they’d like to know—amperage, amp-hours, temperatures, voltage, and more!

Consistently provides 100 watts of power when positioned under the sun
Comes with a charge controller, mounting brackets, and cables
The charge controller has an LCD screen
Sensor for battery temperature
You can choose and adjust what settings to see on your LCD screen
You must purchase fuses and fuse holders to complete this solar system

SUNER POWER 12-Volt Waterproof Solar Panel (Outdated)

This solar panel by SUNER POWER doubles as a battery charger. It’s powered by highly efficient polycrystalline cells on a sturdy solar panel. These solar cells generate battery power in any condition, even when the sun isn’t so bright.

The charging system follows a stringent and smart three-step algorithm, keeping your battery safe as it charges. It does so with a unique “Maximum Power Point Tracking” (MPPT) chip, which prevents battery issues like overcharging and short-circuiting. MPPT also allows the charge controller to generate up to 30% more power than others do.

The controller has a LED light where you can see all the pertinent information on your battery, like whether it’s charging and if the battery’s full.

This entire solar system is made with IP65 waterproof technology. It won’t be susceptible to water damage, so users don’t have to worry about backflow from the water around the boat causing damage to it.

High-efficiency polycrystalline solar cells generate power in any condition
Has a smart three-step charging algorithm for a safer charge
Its unique MPPT chip protects your battery
MPPT controller generates up to 30% more solar power than others
Has a LED light to indicate battery status
The system is IP65 waterproof, so it won’t be susceptible to water damage
Designed to work only on 12V batteries

Easy to install through grommets or adhesives

Setting up traditional solar panels on regular surfaces like walls and roofs can be difficult as it is. It might be trickier on a moving, swaying boat.

Make sure your marine solar panels are a breeze to set up. Look for ones that are okay to simply stick onto surfaces with adhesives, or have pre-drilled holes so you can screw them onto a mount quickly.

Provides an adequate amount of energy to power up your batteries and appliances

Select marine solar panels that will give you the right amount of solar power to meet your energy requirements.

For example, if you only need solar power on the boat to charge devices in the short term, 50W or 100W might be enough for your trip.

However, if you intend to use your solar panel to charge marine battery, you’ll definitely need one that converts a higher amount of solar energy—perhaps some 200 watt marine solar panels.

Comes with all the necessary accessories, like connectors and junction boxes

Don’t put yourself through the hassle of buying each part of your marine solar system separately. Look for solar panels that provide all the necessary cables, boxes, and accessories to get you set up immediately. Ensure that your panel comes with connectors, junction boxes, charge controllers, and more.

Manufactured by a legitimate and respectable solar power brand

You must always purchase solar panels from legitimate brands that will give you top-notch and high-quality panels. There are many bogus panels in the market today, so double-check to make sure the solar panels you’re buying come from good, renowned manufacturers

If you’re not sure which solar panels to buy, it’s wise to go for classic, tried-and-tested brands. These include Renogy, TP-Solar, and SunPower marine solar panels.

Plus, buying from bigger brands will increase your chances of getting a product warranty that lasts years.

It depends on how much power you need to keep your appliances and gadgets up and running.

For shorter, one-day excursions, you can live with just one or two high-quality solar panels to provide some electricity to charge your phones and maybe a mini-fridge for the day.

But if you’re planning to sail for longer and live on the boat 24/7, you’ll probably need a bigger boat solar system with as many solar panels as you need. This is because you’ll likely have to run bigger appliances and lights, which demands more solar energy.

If you have a 12V marine refrigerator, it will likely only use up anywhere between 2-6 amps per hour. One solar panel emitting a usual 100 watts is more than enough power for such a fridge.

There are many different ways to set up solar panels on boats. If your solar panel is flexible, thin, and ultra-light, you can simply secure it in place with adhesives.

Thicker panels may need to be screwed in with grommets. If this is the route you’re going for, make sure you have sturdy mounting hardware to place your solar panels in.

Traveling through water may be relaxing and stylish, but the excursion is never complete without the best marine solar panels to provide solar energy and battery power during your trip. Hopefully, this round-up of traditional and flexible marine solar panels reviews help you out on your hunt to find the best panels.

Just make sure your panels are efficient in providing high power, waterproof to avoid damage from the sea, and thin and lightweight for easy mounting and storing. If you tick all those boxes, your sailboat solar panels should be all good.

I am Kathleen Miller, staff writer and reviewer of the Avasolar team. Working with the team has been a pleasure for me so far, I hope to bring readers useful information by creating detailed and easy-to-follow contents.

8 Best Boat Solar Panels in 2024 to Power Your Boat Sustainability

With plenty of sunlight but no access to mains electricity, solar power is made for boating, but this doesn’t mean you can use just any solar panel on your boat.

Green Coast is supported by its readers. We may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you if you buy through a link on this page . Learn more .

Solar power is the perfect solution for meeting your energy needs when you’re out on the water, but you can’t necessarily use the same solar panel you would on your home. Here are our top picks for the best boat solar panels, as well as some info you should know when buying a marine solar panel.

The best marine solar panels for your boat

Thanks to advances in solar technology, there’s now a dizzying array of solar panels available on the market in various forms. However, some are better suited to marine conditions than others: the following products are your best bet to install on your boat.

1. Renogy 400 Watt 12 Volt Solar Premium Kit

For a truly powerful solar system, look to this 400-watt solution from Renogy . This comprehensive kit includes four 100-watt solar panels, a 40-amp MPPT charge controller, module fuse, mounting brackets and an adapter kit.

Combined, the panels output up to a total of 2.5kWh of electricity per day (provided there’s enough sun), to power most boat engines with power to spare for appliances.

The high-quality panels have a bypass diode that bypasses cells that are performing poorly because they’re in the shade, to minimize power drops when the solar panel is in partial shade, and therefore delivering strong performance in a low-light environment.

However, you will need enough space on your boat to accommodate four 40 x 21 inch panels, which will probably only fit on a larger vessel. Online reviewers also complain that the kit doesn’t come with detailed assembly instructions, so you may struggle to put everything together, especially if you’re a beginner.

What we like:

Powerful: The total system delivers 400 watts of power output, or 2.5kWh of electricity, in optimum conditions.
Bypass diode: Which maximizes the solar panel’s performance by bypassing cells that are in the shade, allowing the panel to perform well in low light.
Powerful: This kit will produce a total of 400 watts, so is great for charging larger boat batteries or running a number of appliances onboard.
Solid and durable: The panels have multi-layered sheet laminations and come in a corrosion-resistant aluminum frame, so will stand up to different conditions without damage, so you can be confident they’ll stay in good condition wherever you take your boat.

What we don’t like:

Instructions not very extensive: The kit doesn’t come with an extensive manual to help you put everything together, so you might struggle if you’re not particularly handy.

Despite the lack of clear instructions, overall this is a well-made, powerful solar kit. If you need lots of power and have the space for four solar panels, this could be the best choice for you.

2. Newpowa 20W Monocrystalline Sailboat Solar Panel

This panel is a good choice if you have limited space and don’t need too much power for your boat. Each panel has only 20 watts of output, but is very compact: in fact, the new design is highly-efficient, allowing it to be even smaller than previous models, at just 13.6 x 14.2 inches.

With such small dimensions, you may be able to install several panels on an irregular boat roof or in other tricky spots. However, keep in mind that even with a few of these panels, you probably won’t have enough power to run your boat battery.

Newpowa’s 20-watt solar panel is built to last. It comes with a two-year workmanship warranty, and an output warranty that guarantees 90% power for 10 years, and 80% for 25 years.

The panel is slim, but with sturdy aluminum frames around the panel and between each cell, so it’s designed to stand up to harsh conditions, including winds up to 2400Pa and hail and snow loads of 5400Pa. Therefore, you’ll be able to take this panel on your boat through all kinds of weathers without it being damaged.

Compact: At just 13.6 x 14.2 inches, this small panel will fit in all kinds of tight spots, making it easier to find a mounting location on your boat.
Good workmanship: The panel is well-made, backed up with a generous warranty, meaning you can feel confident that on the slight chance of any faults or issues, they’ll be resolved by the manufacturer.
Durable: The Newpowa panel has a sturdy aluminum frames between each cell, and can stand up to high winds, hail, and snow, which is obviously very important for solar panels for boats
Low power output: This panel has a relatively-low 20-watt power output, which isn’t great because it will only supply enough energy to run one or two appliances part time.

Small, slim and durable, this high-quality solar panel is perfect if you have low power needs on your boat, or as part of a larger solar system.

3. ACOPOWER 35W Polycrystalline Sailboat Solar Panel

Specifically designed for boats, this small polycrystalline solar panel provides 35 watts of power. It’s highly efficient with a conversion rate up to 19.1%, so you’ll get the maximum amount of power output in return for the precious space on your boat.

ACOPOWER 35W Polycrystalline Photovoltaic Solar Panel

Suitable for all climates and conditions, the silicon cells have a protective coating and come in a corrosion-resistant aluminum frame. It’s rated for high winds to 2400Pa, snow loads to 5400Pa, temperatures between -40 and 176 degrees F, and up to 100% humidity.

We also love that this panel is easy to install, coming with four pre-drilled holes, junction box and a three-foot solar cable. It’s compatible with a range of mounting systems, including Z-brackets, pole mounts, and tilt mounts, making it easy to place virtually anywhere on your boat, from the roof to the stern.

Suitable for all weathers: The panel is rated for extreme cold and hot temperatures, as well as high humidity, winds, and snow loads, which is good because boat solar panels may be exposed to all of these conditions.
Easy to install: It comes with pre-drilled holes for easy installation, as well as being suitable for various mounting systems, so can be mounted in varying locations on your boat’s roof.
Highly-efficient: This panel has an impressive maximum conversion rate of 19.1% so will perform well in low-light environments, meaning you’ll still have power on overcast days.
Inconsistent quality control: Some reviewers mention issues with parts and accessories failing or breaking, though many also mention the manufacturer quickly resolved the problem. However, it’s worth remembering the affordable price of this panel – so if the quality issue is a big concern, better to opt for something more premium.

Some online reviews mention issues with some parts breaking during install. However, with a five-year workshop warranty, a 20-year power output warranty, and lifetime technical support, you can feel confident that, on the slight chance that you do experience any issues, they’ll be resolved easily.

Despite even this, the Acopower is worth your attention because of its affordable price and easy, out-of-the-box design that’s easy to install right out of the box.

4. Newpowa 160W Monocrystalline Sailboat Solar Panel

For significantly more power, consider this 160-watt panel from Newpowa. The panel does involve a higher investment than small panels, but you’ll be able to charge your boat battery and perhaps even run some appliances with the power this product delivers.

Newpowa 160W Monocrystalline Solar Panel

The panel is made of top quality, high-performance polycrystalline cells fitted with an aluminum frame, making it efficient but durable. It uses 9 busbars (9BB) technology which converts light more efficiently while lasting longer.

It’s also easy to install, coming with diodes pre-installed in the junction box, as well as two pre-attached 3-foot MC4 cables, so all you need to do is mount the panel and you’re good to go! The well-made panel comes with a 10-year 90% power output warranty, 25-year 80% output warranty, and two-year limited material and workmanship warranty.

Highly efficient: This panel’s use of 9BB technology makes it more efficient and longer lasting than many other panels.
Easy installation: With pre-installed diodes and pre-attached cables, this panel is a piece of cake to install, so it’s a great option for those who aren’t experienced with this type of thing.
Long life: The panel is made with advanced 9BB technology that is efficient and long-lasting, so you won’t need to replace your panel for years to come.
Expensive: You’ll pay more for the extra power, so it’s important to be sure that a smaller panel won’t suffice.

This powerful and efficient Newpowa panel is built to last, evidenced by the generous manufacturer’s warranty, making it an excellent boat solar panel.

5. Nature Power 120W Portable Sailboat Solar Panel

This portable solar panel from Nature Power can be set up and used anywhere, so is a great solution if you don’t have space on your boat to install a permanent panel. Equally, this can be a good option if you only want to use it on a boat occasionally, and also use it when camping, trekking, or at home during emergencies.

Nature Power 120W Portable Monocrystalline Solar Panel

The compact, foldable panel can be set up anywhere there’s sun, and then easily stored or transported after use. The panel folds out to 67.2 x 24.8 x 3 inches, and then can fold up into the size of a slim suitcase with an easy-carry handle.

Thanks to its high-efficiency, monocrystalline cells, this small panel can produce up to 120 watts and 6.67 amps of output. It also comes with a charge controller to help you efficiently charge your battery, and a built-in diode to avoid discharging.

Although the panel itself is well-made and robust, some online users complain that the clips and stand are less durable, with some reporting breakages.

Portable: The panel can be folded up and easily transported, thanks to its easy-carry handle. This is great because you can use it on your boat when needed, then for other uses, such as for camping or emergencies.
Highly efficient: Thanks to its advanced monocrystalline cells, this panel delivers 120 watts despite its small size and slim design.
No need to install: Simply set up the panel on your deck when you need some power, and then fold it away, so a great option if you don’t want to fuss with installation or don’t have space on your boat to put it up permanently.
Low-quality accessories: Some online reviews mention the poor quality of the panel’s accessories such as the clips and stand.

Overall, this portable solar panel is a great choice if you’re unable to mount a panel on your boat, or want the freedom to use it in different locations.

6. Nature Power 165W Sailboat Solar Panel

This monocrystalline solar panel is powerful, durable, and efficient . The modular design, robust aluminum frames, and scratch-resistant, anti-reflective coating means the panel will stand up to all weather conditions, making it perfect for your boat.

Nature Power Monocrystalline Solar Panel

This panel is sold on its own, but the brand also offers an 8-amp solar charge controller that you can use with any 12-volt battery to build your own boat solar kit. The panel itself comes with a built-in diode, as well as “plug and play” connections that are easy to install.

Monocrystalline: The monocrystalline cells make this solar panel very efficient, giving you a powerful output of 165 watts with just one panel.
Robust: The panel is built to withstand all conditions, with a strong aluminum frame and scratch-resistant coating.
Easy to install: The panel comes with simple, “plug and play” connections, making it a breeze to install, so is perfect for beginners.
High cost: Because of its premium construction and features, this is not the most affordable solar panel on the market.

This panel is relatively expensive, and there are more affordable options available, but you get a high-quality, well-made panel in return for your investment. Furthermore, it comes with a 25-year power generation warranty, so you can be confident that you’re unlikely to encounter any major issues for years, and if you do, they’ll be resolved.

7. Topsolar 100W 12V Solar Panel Kit

This complete solar kit contains one 100-watt solar panel, intelligent charge controller, v-shaped tilt bracket, as well as two 16-foot and two five-foot cables with MC4 and O-ring terminals, making it easy to install and connect.

This set is designed for off-grid, outdoor use such as on boats, RVs, cabins, and yards, and suitable for charging car and boat batteries. The panel is highly durable, thanks to its corrosion-proof aluminum frame and tempered glass coating, so will cope with whatever conditions you throw at it.

The high-efficiency monocrystalline PV cells deliver 100 watts of power in a relatively compact 46.5 x 21.8 inch panel that’s just 1.37-inch thick. The adjustable mounting bracket can tilt to capture the maximum amount of direct sunlight, helping you get the maximum amount of power for your boat.

Complete kit: With a 100-watt panel, charge controller, bracket, and cables, you have everything you need to set up and install your marine solar system.
Tilted mounting bracket: Meaning you can tilt the panel to capture the maximum amount of sunlight.
Versatile: The kit comes with two 16-foot and an additional two five-foot cables featuring both O-ring and MC4 terminals, meaning you can connect it to different types of equipment and in various locations.
Problematic controller: Online reviewers complain about performance issues with the charge controller.

The most common complaint about this set is that the controller is low-quality, though the panel itself works very well. However, overall this is a good set for any boat with medium power needs.

8. 200 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit w/ MPPT Charge Controller

This kit comes with two 100-watt poly/mono-crystalline solar panels, a 40-amp MPPT charge controller, Z-brackets for mounting the solar panel, an adapter kit, and connector cables. However, it should be noted that the kit lacks a few important accessories, such as fuses, so you’ll need to buy these separately.

Although these two 100-watt solar panel can supply up to 800Wh power output a day if there’s enough sun, they have a small footprint. This makes the kit ideal for boats, as you can install them in small and compact spaces, like the roof of your sailboat.

The solar panels are also highly-efficient, with 22% solar cell efficiency , significantly higher than many comparable products. With a corrosion-resistant aluminum frame, the panels will also stand up to all weathers, including winds of up to 2400Pa and snow loads of 5400Pa.

This means you can be confident they’ll last for decades no matter what kind of conditions your boat faces over the years!

Maximum power for the footprint: The solar panels are highly-efficient, giving you the maximum amount of energy without taking up too much space.
Corrosion-resistant frame: The aluminum frame is resistant to corrosion, so will keep its form in salt water and harsh weather.
Charge controller included: The kit comes with an MPPT charge controller, adaptor, cables, and mounting brackets, so you won’t need to invest in extra equipment and can get started straight away!
Some accessories not included : Although this is sold as a complete kit, it lacks a few important bits and pieces, so you’ll need to be prepared to avoid disappointment when trying to install your panels.

Overall, this is a good medium-sized kit that delivers a reasonable amount of power with the minimum footprint.

Why buy a boat solar panel?

Most boats require a lot of electricity, from powering navigation lights and radio systems to maintaining autopilot and, most of all, the boat battery. If you use your boat for longer trips, you’ll probably also need electricity for appliances like fridges, heaters, and even a TV.

Traditionally, many boats used gasoline or diesel generators to supply this power, but relying on solar energy instead has a number of advantages. Not only is it more environmentally friendly, but the sun will always shine (even if it’s not full sun), so you’ll have a continuous supply of energy and won’t need to worry about running out of fuel.

Furthermore, unlike noisy, smelly generators, solar systems are quiet, odorless, and don’t create excess heat, so won’t make your boat unpleasantly warm in summer. Once you’ve made the initial investment, solar panels are cheap to run, as you don’t need to pay for fuel – after all, sunshine is free!

What to consider when buying boat solar panels

There are many different types of solar panels, just as boats can come in all shapes and sizes. Therefore, it’s important to consider the various features offered by different panels in order to choose the right model for your boat.

Here are the key things to keep in mind when shopping for boat solar panels.

Panel output and efficiency

The first thing to consider when buying a solar panel for your boat is how much power it will produce, and whether this will be sufficient to meet your needs. You need to consider what you want to use the panel for: for example, do you just want to run a couple of onboard appliances, or are you looking to power your boat’s battery as well?

Once you’ve determined this, calculate how much power you’ll need (more on how to do that below), and this will give you an indication of the power output you should look for when buying your panel.

It’s important to get a robust panel that will stand up to all kinds of weathers and conditions without getting damaged.

The most durable panels come with a sturdy metal frame, often made of aluminum to keep weight to a minimum.

Waterproofing

Obviously, the ability to stand up to water is essential for any marine solar panel. Most good-quality solar panels for any purpose are highly resistant to water, as they’re designed to be placed outdoors in the rain.

Even still, it’s important to check that waterproof level of any solar panel before buying it for your boat. Specifically, look for a panel with a IP67 rating, as this indicates that the panel is highly resistant to water damage.

Weight and flexibility

Another important factor to consider is weight. You usually have two options when installing a solar panel on a boat: on the roof or on the stern, usually supported with some kind of bracket or scaffolding.

As neither boat roofs nor brackets are typically designed to support a lot of weight, it’s important to buy panels that are light. With limited space and low clearance, it can also be a good idea to look for thin panels that are not much more than an inch thick.

As most boats have curved roofs, a flexible solar panel can often be the way to go. These kinds of panels are not rigid, but can bend to fit irregular surfaces.

However, flexible solar panels tend to be less efficient and generally don’t last as long as rigid ones, so you’ll need to weigh up these factors to make the right choice for you.

Ease of installation

When buying a solar panel for any purpose, how easy it is to install is a key consideration, unless you’re planning to hire an expert to handle this for you. This is even more critical when buying a marine solar panel, as installing the equipment is more difficult than ever on a boat that may be moving and swaying with the waves.

Pay attention to how the panel is installed: flexible solar panels can often be simply attached with an adhesive, though you’ll need to make sure the glue is suitable for marine applications. Rigid solar panels can be more difficult to put up, though some come with grommets and pre-drilled holes that make things easier.

Reading user reviews on sites like Amazon will usually give you a pretty good idea of whether the panel is tricky or pretty straightforward to install.

Questions to ask yourself before buying t solar panel for your boat

The right solar panel for you will depend on a range of factors, from the size of your boat to your power needs. Understanding these key factors will help you to make the right decision and buy the perfect marine solar panel for you.

What size solar panel do you need?

You’ll need to work out how much energy you need to determine the right size solar panel to buy. You can calculate this by adding up the typical amp hours and volts used by all of the appliances on your boat – the average amp hours are usually printed on the label or elsewhere on the appliance.

For a more accurate measurement, use a battery monitor to get a reading of the amp hours your boat uses. Monitor your usage over several days while you’re on the boat (the more the better) and divide the total figure by the number of days to get your average amp hour usage per day.

How big is your boat’s battery?

You’ll also have to consider the size of your boat’s battery. Other than the power you use in the hours of peak sunlight in the middle of the day, you’ll only be able use as much energy as you can store.

Also keep in mind whether you want to be able to charge your boat’s battery with solar or run your boat on gas and use the solar panel for appliances only.

Most boats have a 12-volt battery, which needs around 350 watts of power to charge. However, larger vessels can have a larger battery, which means you’ll need more panels.

Do you have enough space for a solar panel?

Once you’ve determined the ideal solar panel size for your boat and your needs, you also need to work out how much space you have to accommodate the panel. Assess your boat for suitable locations, keeping in mind that you need to install your panels somewhere that gets plenty of sun.

You can either mount your boat solar panel on the roof or on the stern, using a bracket or similar.

two flexible solar panels mounted on a boat

If you want to mount the panel on the roof, you don’t necessarily need a completely flat spot: flexible solar panels can be installed on curved surfaces, with the added bonus that they’re lightweight so can be put on boat roofs that can support too much weight. Likewise, high-efficiency panels that offer the same amount of energy with a smaller footprint, like the ACOPOWER 35W Polycrystalline Sailboat Solar Panel can be a good solution for smaller boat roofs.

If your boat really doesn’t have any suitable spots to mount a solar panel, a backup solution would be to use portable solar panels that you could set up on your deck or a similar space.

Do you need a charge controller?

When setting up a solar system for your boat, you also need to decide whether you want to include a charge controller . Some of the kits above come with a solar charge controller included, like the Topsolar 100W 12V Solar Panel Kit , but you can also buy solar panels on their own.

Charge controllers regulate the amount of energy that flows from the solar panel to the battery, helping to ensure that it doesn’t get overcharged or overloaded. This is important, because either of these things can damage the battery and shorten its life.

For this reason, although a solar charge controller is not strictly necessary when installing solar panels on your boat, it can be a very good idea in order to protect your battery and make sure your boat uses the right amount of energy for its needs.

Wrapping up

A boat solar panel is the ultimate solution for self-sufficiency, allowing you to run your boat on the energy of the sun. You won’t need to worry about running out of fuel, and having to go back to shore.

Not to mention that by using this clean, renewable energy will help you to reduce your carbon footprint and be kinder to the environment.

If you’ve found this guide to the best solar panels helpful, you’re sure to enjoy our posts on the best portable solar panels for camping , flexible solar panels and solar power output .

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Best Solar Panels For Sailboats in 2023

Ahoy there, sailors! So, you’ve decided to take the plunge with solar panels for sailboats . Congratulations, you’re about to embark on an environmentally conscious and cost-efficient solar journey on the water! However, before you set sail, you need to know what you’re getting into. There are many things to consider, so let’s dive in!

Solar panels for sailboats are an innovative and eco-friendly alternative to traditional power sources. These panels harness the power of the sun and convert it into electricity, providing a self-sustainable source of power for a sailboat. These panels can be easily mounted on the deck or cabin top of a sailboat and supply power to lithium batteries and appliances onboard.

As a skipper myself and renewable energy advocate, I like the fact that with sailboat solar panels sailors can enjoy the freedom of sailing without worrying about running out of power or harming the environment.

Table Of Contents

Best solar panels for sailboats

If you need a quick selection of hand-picked solar panels for your boat, then here’s a selection of the best marine solar panels for sailboats available right now:

The Best Marine Solar Panels For Boats

OUR PICK: BougeRV

best value marine solar panels for sailboat

High efficiency: 22.8%
Monocrystalline
High density 9 power bus
Panels from 100W to 300W each
25 Years warranty

Best FLEXIBLE Panels

best flexible solar panels for sailboat bimini

22% Efficiency
Lightweight: only 4.4 lbs
Extra-thin: only 0.1 in

You may also need to purchase a charge controller and batteries for your solar system. Here are the best ones:

There are many factors to consider when choosing the solar panels for your boat and it’s important to consider the entire system as a whole to avoid inefficiencies. Let’s look at those more in detail!

Choosing Marine Solar Panels for Sailboats and Yachts

It is crucial to choose the appropriate solar panels for your yacht or sailboat to optimize your investment.

Size and Weight

Sailors know that every inch and pound on board is precious, which is why finding the right sailboat solar panel size and weight is crucial. With so many options on the market, it’s important to choose panels that strike the perfect balance between efficiency and practicality

Whether you’re looking to power just a few basic devices or run your entire boat on solar, consider the size and weight of your panels. Smaller and lighter panels may be easier to install and transport, but larger ones could provide more power output.

Efficiency is key when it comes to choosing solar panels for your sailboat or yacht. Not only do high efficiency panels generate more power per square foot, but they also take up less space on your vessel. This allows for more room and less clutter on board.

When comparing efficiency, look for panels with a higher conversion rate of sunlight into electricity. Additionally, consider the temperature coefficient, which measures how well the panels perform in hot temperatures.

Opting for a higher efficiency solar panel may cost more upfront, but it can ultimately save you money and provide a more reliable source of power for your boating adventures.

Monocrystalline VS Polycrystalline

There are two types of solar panels: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. Monocrystalline solar panels are more efficient and more expensive than polycrystalline panels. However, if you have limited space on your sailboat, monocrystalline panels may be a better option because they are more efficient.

Click the button below to get the best monocrystalline solar panels for your boat:

If instead you are on a budget and are not so concerned about the efficiency of your solar system, you can opt for polycrystalline panels, they are less efficient (about 15% of efficiency), but cheaper:

Best Polycrystalline Solar Panels for Boats

OUR PICK (Budget Option)

However, the efficiency of a solar system is not just the efficiency of the panels themselves. Here are some other important factors to consider!

Type of Installation: series vs parallel vs hybrid

The installation type can also influence the efficiency of your system. If you are installing solar panels in an area with shade, you should opt for a parallel installation or a hybrid serial and parallel system. Otherwise, if one of your solar panels is shaded in a series configuration, you will lose power from the entire array.

This is because when you connect your solar panels in series, if one of the panels is not working because it is being shaded, the panel will interrupt the circuit, therefore also all the power that could have been generated by the other connected panels will be lost.

This doesn’t happen if instead, you connect the panels in parallel. However, the installation in parallel is more challenging because you will need to install a combiner box or a branch connector and make that waterproof.

In addition, you will require a larger charge controller to handle the combined currents. This can be pricey !

A popular solution to reduce shading issues is having panels installed in series on the port side and on a different series on the starboard side. Those 2 series can then be connected in parallel to the controller (hybrid system).

In this way, if the boom is casting its shadow on one side, you will only lose the power generated by the solar array that is on that side, while the rest of the panels will keep working.

But by far the best solution for shading problems (if you can afford it) is to have one solar charge controller per panel. In this way, only the shaded panel will be cut off, while the others will keep producing electricity.

Your installation type will determine the number of solar charge controllers needed for your system.

PWM vs MPPT Solar charge controllers

There are two types of solar controllers : PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) and MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking). MPPT controllers are more expensive but are more efficient and can increase your system’s output by almost 30%.

Here are the best MPPT solar charge controllers, just select the right Amps and voltage for your needs:

Best MPPT Solar Charge Controllers

OUR PICK: Victron

High efficiency: 98%
Custom charging based on battery type

High efficiency: 99%
Compatibility: 12, 24, 36, and 48V

This is why it is very important to choose an MPPT solar charge controller for your sailboat. The last thing you want is to waste 30% of your solar power generation capacity just because of the wrong controller.

Lithium batteries are more expensive than lead-acid batteries, but they are more efficient and have a better charging profile. Lithium batteries can draw down to just 5% (theoretical) of their charge or less, while lead-acid batteries can’t be drawn down below 50% without significantly reducing their lifespan.

This means that you will not be able to use all of the power stored in your lead acid batteries, while you can use almost all the power stored on lithium batteries.

In addition, the charging profile of lead acid batteries tends to drop off after about 1h of charging. Meaning that the batteries will become much less efficient in absorbing the power provided by solar panels.

Considering that on a sunny day, your panels will produce power for many hours in a row, that would be a lot of wasted power due to the poor efficiency of lead-acid batteries.

This is why, depending on the size of your solar array and the use case, I would generally recommend using lithium batteries if you can afford the investment. Here are the best lithium batteries for marine use:

Best Lithium Batteries For Sailboats

Some kits come equipped as off-grid solar generators . Those are stand-alone systems including a battery bank, solar panels, controller, and an inverter.

However, the included portable solar panels are not very practical for sailboats, while on the other hand, the battery pack with all the integrated systems may come quite handy if you need a portable generator powered by solar.

I also wrote a much more detailed blog post about the best batteries for solar , check it out!

Position of Solar Panels

The position of your solar panels is critical to maximize their efficiency, especially on a sailboat. Ensure that the panels are angled such that they receive the most direct sunlight possible and receive less shade as possible.

Durability and Compatibility with Other Systems

When it comes to sailboat solar panels, durability and compatibility with other onboard systems are of paramount importance. You want panels that can withstand harsh weather conditions, strong winds, and rough seas without getting damaged or losing their efficiency.

Equally important is ensuring that the solar panel system is compatible with your sailboat’s electrical system and battery bank, so you can harvest the sun’s energy efficiently and reliably.

Consider the type of solar panel you need, its size, power output, and mounting options, as well as the voltage and amperage requirements of your onboard systems, before making a purchase.

How to Install Solar Panels on a Sailboat or Yacht

While it may seem like a daunting task to install solar panels on a sailboat or yacht, the process can also be done DIY if you are willing to put in the time to learn how to do it properly.

In this section, I’ll outline the tools and materials needed, different mounting options, wiring and connections, and the pros and cons of DIY vs. professional installation.

Note that the longevity of your solar installation depends on the quality of the components and installation. It’s essential to choose high-quality, marine-grade components that are designed to withstand the harsh marine environment.

All external cabling should be 100% waterproof with solar cables , and connectors need to be specific to be sure that the cables are watertight. Also, ensure that the clamping tools and connectors are the right size to avoid damage to the cables.

Tools and Materials Needed

One of the best things about installing solar panels on a sailboat is that it does not require a lot of materials or tools. In fact, in certain cases, you won’t need to drill any holes or attach any brackets to install them. Some sailboat solar panels come with pre-assembled adhesive backing making it easy to mount them on your sailboat’s deck or cabin top.

The main tool you will need and that you may not have already is a professional wire clamping tool and wire stripper. This is an essential tool that you will need to ensure absolutely watertight wiring. Here’s the best toolkit for a DIY solar installation on your boat:

Best Toolkit For DIY Solar Installation

solar wire clamping and stripping toolkit

Different Mounting Options

The mounting process for sailboat solar panels may vary depending on your preferred option. If you’re installing them on your sailboat’s hard surface, you’ll need two parallel rails made out of fiberglass or aluminum. These rails are then attached to the deck using screws, and the panel is attached to the rails with either screws or pivoting clips.

Alternatively, you may opt for flexible solar panels if you want to mount them on a curved surface or on your bimini. Flexible solar panels can be laid flat on your sailboat’s deck or bimini, meaning you don’t need to drill any holes or make any modifications.

Wiring and Connections

The installation process for sailboat solar panels involves a crucial step of wiring them up. Most panels come equipped with cables that are pre-wired for output, which are then connected to your charging controller or inverter.

It is important to use tinned marine-grade wire when connecting your batteries and solar panels, as the ordinary wire can corrode and lose conductivity in a marine environment after a few months.

DIY vs Professional Installation

When it comes to installing solar panels on your sailboat or yacht, you may be wondering whether to DIY or hire a professional. While the DIY approach can be cost-effective and rewarding, it requires significant knowledge and experience.

On the other hand, professional installation ensures high quality and reliability, but can be more expensive. Consider your budget, skills, and time constraints before making a decision.

Maintenance Tips for Marine Solar Panels

Maintaining your sailboat solar panels helps to ensure that they are working at optimal capacity and prolongs their lifespan. In this section, I’ll outline some essential tips for keeping your marine solar panels in top condition.

Cleaning and Inspecting Solar Panels Regularly

Regular cleaning of your sailboat solar panels is critical to ensure that they are free from dust and debris that can affect their performance . Cleaning your solar panels with water and a non-abrasive sponge or cloth is recommended.

You may also use vinegar and water to remove any stubborn bird droppings or other debris. It’s also crucial to inspect your sailboat solar panels regularly, checking for any damage or signs of wear and tear. Catching any issues early can prevent more significant problems that could affect their efficiency later.

Checking Connectors and Terminals for Corrosion

Corrosion is one of the most common causes of sailboat solar panel failure. It’s essential to check all the connectors and terminals for any signs of corrosion regularly. The use of tinned marine-grade wire and connectors can reduce the risk of corrosion.

Troubleshooting Electrical Issues

Even with high-quality sailboat solar panels, electrical issues can still arise. While it’s rare for solar panels to malfunction, there can be problems with the battery or equipment that the panels power. Some common issues that sailors face include failing battery banks and weak electrical connections.

Check if all of the panels are generating power by using a current meter. If all panels are functional, but the battery bank is still not being charged, check if the charge controller is working properly. Charge controllers regulate the amount of power flowing to the battery bank to prevent overcharging and damage.

One of the best ways to troubleshoot electrical problems is to use a multimeter to test voltage levels between different points in the system. Investing in a multimeter will always come in handy . If the battery bank is not receiving a charge from the solar panels, check if the panels are wired properly.

Best Value Multimeter

We earn a small commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Are Solar Panels on Your Sailboat Worth It?

Not only do these panels save sailors money, but they are also eco-friendly , sustainable , and promote independence. Who does not like to sail freely without worries about running out of power or harming the environment?

Installing solar panels on a sailboat can provide clean electricity which reduces noise from generators and creates a peaceful environment for the crew.
The long-term benefits include lower maintenance costs, lower fuel consumption, and a smaller carbon footprint . In short, the cost is a one-time investment that pays off in the long run.
Relying on gas-powered generators or plugging into shore power is no longer necessary. The panels eliminate the need for frequent refueling on long trips, while conventional power sources may become unreliable when cruising in remote areas with no shore power and servicing options available.

For those who spend their days on the water, a solar panel installation can amplify their sailboat’s capacity. With the ability to trust their power source, sailors can take longer journeys, uninterrupted. Not only will this upgrade help the environment and cut costs, but it’ll also simplify and add peace of mind to your sailing experience.

The Benefits of Installing Marine Solar Panels

There are several benefits to installing marine solar panels on sailboats and yachts that many sailors may not have considered before!

Cost Savings

Installing marine solar panels on your sailboat comes with various benefits, including operational cost savings . By using free renewable energy from the sun, you’ll reduce your reliance on expensive fuel and save money on maintenance costs.

Additionally, solar panels have a long lifespan , which means you won’t have to replace them frequently, saving you even more in the long run. With a relatively low upfront cost, investing in sailboat solar panels is a savvy financial decision, and the benefits go well beyond the environment.

Environmental Benefits

Installing marine solar panels on your sailboat not only saves you money, but it also has a positive impact on the environment.

By utilizing clean and renewable energy from the sun, these solar panels reduce the need for using fossil fuels, which not only pollute the air but also contribute to climate change. With marine solar panels, you can lower your carbon footprint and contribute towards a sustainable future for generations to come. So, make a wise choice and switch to green energy!

Improved Independence

I nstalling marine solar panels on your sailboat can greatly improve your independence on the open waters. With a reliable source of energy, you no longer have to worry about depleted batteries or running out of fuel.

High efficiency solar panels will allow you to power all of your necessary electronics and appliances without having to rely on outside sources. Plus, with their affordability and reliability , you can rest easy knowing that you’re making a smart investment for your boating adventures.

Also, did you know that new solar boats and catamarans are becoming available on the market? Those are powerboats and sailboats specifically designed to maximize their ability to harvest solar power. Some of those are even integrating solar cells in the hull and the mast!

Which solar panels work best on sailboats?

The ideal solar panels for a sailboat would be those that can efficiently absorb sunlight even in low-light conditions and are durable enough to withstand the harsh marine environment. That’s why monocrystalline solar panels are generally preferred by sailors due to their superior efficiency.

Additionally, they can also be lightweight and flexible, so that they can be easily installed on areas like dodgers, biminis, and hardtops. It’s also important to consider the size of the sailboat and the power requirements, in order to choose the appropriate wattage for the solar panels.

How many solar panels for sailboat cruising?

To determine the necessary number of solar panels for a sailboat, first calculate the total daily power consumption. Then consider the boat’s available space for panel installation and the desired level of backup power.

Depending on the size of your boat, you may need anywhere between 400 watts for a 40ft sailboat and 2 kW for a 45ft catamaran. But this all depends on your daily power consumption and the number of appliances you need to run on your boat.

It’s important to remember that the efficiency of solar panels can vary based on location, weather, orientation, and installation type. Additionally, the solar charge controller and type of batteries are also playing a significant role in determining the overall efficiency of a marine solar system.

Optimal solar panel placement on a sailboat?

When installing solar panels on a sailboat, it’s important to consider the placement for maximum exposure to sunlight. Ideally, the panels should be mounted on the part of the boat that receives the most sunlight and is free from obstructions.

This will vary depending on the design of the vessel, but typically the roof, deck, or a dedicated stern transom are good options .

So there you have it, sailors! I hope that you found this guide to solar panels for sailboats helpful. With high-efficiency, affordable, and reliable panels, you can enjoy the beauty of the ocean while powering your boat in an environmentally friendly way. Say goodbye to noisy generators and fuel costs, and hello to the quiet and sustainable power of the sun.

It’s time to make the switch to solar panels for sailboats . Invest in the future of our oceans and take the first step towards a greener tomorrow. Happy sailing!

Key takeaways

Solar panels on your boat maintain your battery’s charge to ensure that your appliances always have power, without a loud and expensive gas generator.

An average 30-foot boat will need about 350 watts of solar power to maintain electricity.

To determine how many panels your boat needs, you need to figure out how much power it uses, which you can easily do with a battery monitor. It also depends on how big your boat’s battery is.

You can install solar panels in unique locations on your boat but it is important that they can track the sun’s movement throughout the day.

What is the best use for boat solar panels?

Boats use a lot of energy for things like maintaining autopilot, keeping navigation lights on, and powering radio systems. Solar panels can provide the energy to carry out these tasks and maintain your boat's battery if it happens to be sitting idle. In either circumstance, your battery will never run out of energy.

Not to mention, compared to gas-powered generators, solar panels have the added benefit of being quiet. They also don’t produce excess heat that makes sitting in your boat with a gas generator unpleasant on hot days.

You can use solar panels for any size boat. For smaller sailboats, the main job of your solar panels would be to keep the battery fully charged for your boat’s electricity. For larger boats, they help reduce or eliminate the need to use the engine to provide excess power.

The average 30-foot boat would require about 300-350 watts of power . Depending on your energy use and boat size, you need more or less solar power to provide you with electricity.

How to choose the right solar panels for your boat

The first step to determining what size solar panel will work for your boat is figuring out how much power your boat is using . You can do this by checking the labels on your appliances for the typical amp hours and volts used.

Or, you can use a battery monitor to measure the amount of energy your fridge, lights, or the other appliances on your boat consume while in use. After finding the amp hours your boat uses per day, you can determine the wattage of power your solar panels need to produce.

This example is extremely limited, you will need to determine how much energy your entire boat is using to make sure your panels provide enough power to keep your battery charged. But, technically if you had one 300-watt solar panel, or (3) 100W solar panels, they would generate 2,800W over those 8 hours. That energy would be more than enough to keep the above appliances running.

The size of your boat’s battery will also factor into which size solar panel you need . For instance, many DIY solar panels are meant to act as a battery charger to a 12-volt lithium battery, which is the typical size within a boat. But if you have a larger boat with a larger battery, you might need more than 350 watts of power.

Additional things to consider are whether you will need a charge controller and if you have enough unshaded space for your solar panels to absorb the maximum amount of sunlight.

Do you need a charge controller?

A charge controller acts as a regulator for the amount of energy that is transferred from your solar panel into your boat’s battery. This helps to make sure that your battery is not overloaded and overcharged, which can ruin the battery over time.

While it is not necessary, it is a good idea to install a charge controller with your solar panel system to help manage the energy load that your battery receives. This will prolong the life of your battery while ensuring your boat uses the exact amount of energy it needs.

Do you have enough space for boat solar panels?

Having a dedicated spot on your boat that has access to the full sun is key. Any shading, such as from a sail on your boat, will reduce the amount of energy your panels produce. While simply bringing portable solar panels aboard is an option, permanently mounting the panels to your boat makes it easier to always have your panels ready to go.

Because boats typically only have room for a small solar system, getting the most out of your limited space is key. With limited space, it’s best to look for high efficiency panels because you will need less of them to produce the energy you need.

Learn more : What are the most efficient solar panels in 2022?

Or something as simple as the setup below can power your boat's battery and be angled towards direct sunlight throughout the day while not taking up valuable space on the boat.

What are the best solar panels for boats to buy?

Any type of panel can be used on a boat such as monocrystalline, polycrystalline or thin-film. However, it is important to note that some companies exclude salt water and marine environments from their warranties.

We've listed some options below, you can choose based on where you have space to put the panels. For instance, thin-film panels are less efficient but they are flexible. So if you wanted to place a few panels on your boat’s roof versus one panel taking up valuable space, thin-film panels would be a good choice.

On the other hand, monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels have higher efficiency ratings and will ensure you get the most energy from your limited space or during low-light conditions. So if you have a location that can support racking, monocrystalline or polycrystalline solar panels are a better option.

Below are some of our top picks for solar panels for boats:

Most practical

Topsolar flexible solar panel

Cost : $149.99 Buy Now

The Topsolar 100W flexible solar panel is a practical, semi-flexible, cheap option. It does not come with a charge controller or an inverter but you can buy a few of these to create a simple solar panel system on your boat.

This flexible panel also allows you to utilize more space since this can be molded to fit untraditional angels on your boat.

Best quality, small cost

Renogy 100W 12V solar panel

Cost : $103.44 Buy Now

The Renogy 100W 12V solar panel is a great option. At 21%, it is a high efficiency monocrystalline panel manufactured by a reputable solar panel company.

There are pre-drilled holes for easy drilling to a mount on your boat. If you have space to secure solar panels to a mount, the Renogy panels will help you maximize energy output.

Best overall

Cost : $399.00 Buy Now

The SunPower 170W panel is a great flexible solar panel for off-grid use. Choose this option if you are interested in the versatility that a flexible solar panel offers and also want a reputable brand name with a high efficiency rating.

While these panels do not come with a solar charge controller, they must be used with one, so add one to your cart like the Victron Energy SmartSolar MPPT charge controller .

Why solar panels are a good choice for backup power on boats

Having a source of backup power on a boat is very important, you do not want to be caught far from land with a dead battery. Solar energy is the perfect choice because on a typical boating day, there is ample sunlight available as renewable energy. Because boats rely on a battery for electricity, a solar panel can ensure that this battery always has power.

There are many solar panel options available for your boat and can easily be installed DIY. They will help with your sense of security while saving money because you can skip out on the traditional gas generator and rely on a self-sufficient solar power system.

Articles and Guides

The Best Solar Panels for Boats, Top Brands on the Market

29th jan 2024 by denelle balach.

Energy generated by solar systems converting sunlight into energy for electrical needs has made dramatic gains worldwide in the last 15 years. However, until relatively recently, solar panels that could withstand the harsh marine environment were just a dream.

Fortunately, a new reality has emerged. The boating community can now choose from numerous solar brands that fit any person’s boat, budget, and power needs without skimping on safety, durability, and efficiency. Solar panels are a clean, renewable source of power that will reduce or eliminate the need for fossil fuels aboard your boat, potentially saving on fuel costs in the process, but that’s just one benefit.

Solar doesn’t produce greenhouse gas emissions, resulting in less pollution and a reduced carbon footprint from your boat. Solar panels operate silently, providing a quieter and more peaceful boating experience. They offer freedom from shore power and generators so you can stay on the water longer before needing to turn on your engine or return to shore to recharge your batteries. Solar panels are generally low maintenance and are regarded as a reliable, hassle-free power source.

They are long-lasting especially when classified at an IP67 (ingress protection) rating. This ensures they are protected from water corrosion. They are versatile in size and configuration and can be installed on most boat sizes and types. Some great mounting options include on the deck, atop a cabintop, bimini or arch, or even integrated into the sails of a sailboat.

However, choosing the right solar panels for your boat can be confusing, and with significant upfront costs, it’s understandable that you want your first solar panel purchase to be a good one!

Below are some of the top marine solar brands that you can depend on for efficiency, durability, and affordability, as well as some things to consider before purchasing any solar panel(s).

Best Premium Solar Panels

Now owned by Maxeon, SunPower has consistently dominated the residential solar panel market, so it’s no surprise many boaters consider them an excellent option for their vessels. SunPower is a premium solar brand with the highest power output and charging capacity in its product class. This means more power in less space! SunPower is made from lightweight polymer materials within their flexible and fixed-frame options.

SunPower has a robust 25-year warranty, claiming specific modules will be at least 80 to 92 percent of the minimum peak power rating after 25 years. SunPower’s commitment to innovation and cutting-edge technology makes their solar panels an excellent choice for any boat’s size and power needs, as they have many sizes, wattages, and types of solar panels.

SunPower panels are usually more expensive than other solar panels on the market. However, their panels are highly durable and efficient. The other challenge for some consumers is that SunPower does not sell directly to marine consumers from their website. To purchase one of their panels, you must contact a dealer such as Sun Powered Yachts or purchase a panel from Amazon. Sun Power’s official customer service is only trained in residential and commercial solar systems, so they cannot answer marine-specific questions. Sun Powered Yachts Website

Sunpower SPR-E-Flex-100. Sunpower photo.

Solbian is a premium solar brand specializing in flexible and semi-flexible solar panels. They guarantee the quality of the product and its duration in time. Most of their panels use SunPower’s technology to make their cells. Solbian’s panels are durable, thin (less than 2mm), and have flexible, curved surfaces, perfect for any boat deck. Their panels are lightweight, about 2.5 kg per square meter, compared to the average 12 kg in traditional panels. Solbian’s solar cells are remarkably efficient as they are manufactured in the SP series, which can give out high power in tiny dimensions.

Solbian modifies the number of cells, color, shape, and electrical characteristics to get your panels exactly how you want them. They are easy to install, both permanent and removable, and are often mounted via a structured adhesive, making installation easy. These are more expensive than other flexible and semi-flexible solar panels, but considering their efficiency and longevity, these panels will provide a good return on your investment in the long run.

Another problem buyers face is purchasing knock-off Solbian panels from scam manufacturers. You’ll know this is the case when your panel says they are an “A” grade panel. Solbian and SunPower don’t use industry grades! These vendors may also use a variation of SunPower’s or Solbian’s name, like “Solbien,” to scam people. Solbian’s Official Website

Solbian SP Series. Solbian photo.

Best Overall Solar Panels

Renogy provides a wide range of solar panels suitable for various boat applications. The brand has established a reputation for its durable, efficient panels offered at a lower price than competitors like SunPower. With numerous options available, Renogy allows you to choose the ideal size and type of solar panel tailored to your boat’s needs.

The company offers plenty of resources and videos to aid in selecting the best panels and facilities for easy DIY installations, often requiring no drilling holes. Their panel options come in flexible and fixed-frame shapes, available in various sizes and wattages. However, while these are competitively priced, they are slightly less efficient than premium alternatives like SunPower, potentially necessitating the purchase of more or larger panels for equivalent energy capture.

Some reviews also indicate that due to Renogy’s rapid scaling, they have had challenges in maintaining strong customer service. This could result in poor user experience or issues with warranty returns. Renogy Official Website

Renogy 100W 12V General Off-Grid Solar Kit. Renogy photo.

GoPower! is another excellent brand offering solar panels specializing in flexible panels. Their aerodynamic, durable, and lightweight panels feature a low profile while ensuring high efficiency through monocrystalline cells. These panels easily conform to almost any surface without compromising power output.

All GoPower! panels feature an impermeable lamination coat, facilitating and flexing against curved surfaces without requiring custom mounts. The installation options include adhesion or screws, both claimed to be straightforward and secure.

Each panel has a five-year warranty and is reasonably priced, making them a top choice. However, other options might be preferred if you’re not looking for flexible panels. Additionally, their warranty is shorter than brands like Renogy, and there is a lack of online information regarding potential panel issues. GoPower! Official Website

110 Watt Go-Power Flexible Solar Kit. GoPower! photo.

Best Budget-Friendly Marine Solar Panels

NewPowa offers monocrystalline solar panels, ideal for off-grid boating. These panels feature heavy-duty anodized frames with pre-drilled holes for mounting and a durable TPT back sheet that dissipates heat, ensuring better performance and lifespan.

NewPowa guarantees at least 80 percent maximum output within 25 years because of its high transparency due to low-iron tempered glass. Available in various dimensions and wattages, their panels cater to different needs and budgets, offering rigid and flexible options!

While NewPowa panels are among the most affordable options on the market, they are also less efficient. However, they suit small to medium-sized systems well, maximizing budget and efficiency. Some reviews suggest issues with their customer service, so consider this aspect when making your choice. NewPowa Official Website

100W Monocrystalline 12V Solar Panel. Newpowa

100W Monocrystalline 12V Newpowa Solar Panel. Newpowa photo.

After 15 years of development, Eco-Worthy has become a leading provider of independent off-grid solar solutions. Rated highly for their highly efficient, budget-friendly panels, Eco-Worthy panels feature vermiculite tempered glass and an aluminum frame, ensuring durability and protection against water and saltwater corrosion.

These panels guarantee to deliver over 80 percent of their initial power after up to 25 years of use, withstanding high wind and snow loads. Easy installation using the pre-drill hole method adds to their appeal.

However, Eco-Worthy panels lack flexibility like Solbian panels, challenging placement on curved surfaces. Marketed primarily toward sailboats and yachts, Eco-Worthy panels may not suit other types of vessels. If these limitations present no obstacle for you, their durability and reasonable pricing ensure a good return on investment. Eco-Worthy’s Official Website

100W 12V Monocrystalline Eco-Worthy Solar Panel. Eco-Worthy photo.

Best Backup Solar Panels

For those seeking backup solar panels for emergency use, HQST offers a suitable solution. Ideal for powering lighting and navigation systems during outages, HQST provides portable solar panels that require no permanent installation.

These durable and efficient panels boast improved wiring design, ensuring at least 50 percent power production even when shaded; connecting them to a rechargeable portable power station or using the built-in USB ports to charge mobile devices is straightforward.

Their lack of permanent installation does mean setting up and dismantling after each use. Despite being less efficient than other panels and not as durable as premium options, HQST panels serve well in emergencies. HQST Official Website

100 Watt 9BB Portable HQST Solar Panel. HQST photo.

Lensun Solar

Lensun Solar presents various foldable options suitable for emergency equipment. Their foldable solar panels, equipped with adapters compatible with most solar power station generators, feature high-quality A-grade PERC 9BB monocrystalline solar cells.

Lightweight, flexible, and boasting a higher efficiency of 23.5 percent, these panels are waterproof and capable of withstanding extreme temperatures. The kickstand design enhances solar energy absorption, making setup, carrying, and storage easy.

While they lack permanent installation like HQST, Lensun Solar’s portable panels serve well for charging phones and devices during emergencies or short trips. However, reviews suggest their flexible panels have a limited lifespan and may not last forever on a highly curved surfaces like a Bimini. Lensun Solar Official Website

Lensun 200W 12V Foldable Lensun Solar Panel for GoalZero. Lensun Solar photo.

8 Points to Consider Before Buying Marine Solar Panels

Purchasing a solar system for your boat requires research and planning, considering power needs, budget, and configuration. While learning may take time, the information is readily available. Here are key considerations before buying solar panels from the mentioned brands or any other brand:

Power output

Begin by identifying the amount of energy needed. Create a list of every electrical system, appliance, or other device you want to power using solar energy, such as your cooler fridge, phone, kindle, etc. Calculate the energy requirement for each device by converting the current into amperes and multiplying it by the daily usage time.

Add up these ampere-hour totals for all electronics to get the total energy consumption in ampere-hours. Estimate the average sunlight hours per day in your vessel’s location. Then divide the daily energy consumption (in ampere-hours) by the average sunlight hours to determine the daily energy requirements in watts.

Space available for installation

Boats come in various sizes and shapes, requiring measurement of available dimensions and locations for panel placement. Considerations for proper fit, secure attachment, sun exposure, and aesthetic appeal should guide your selection.

Calculate the number of panels needed by dividing the required solar panel capacity by the individual panel wattage, ensuring it doesn’t exceed the allocated dimensions and weight limit.

Durability and waterproof rating

Before purchasing, ensure the panels are waterproof with an Ingress Protection (IP) rating of IP67 or higher. This safeguards the panels from water and dust: protective encapsulation layers and materials like ethylene vinyl acetate or tetrafluoroethylene shield solar cells and electronics from moisture. Verify proper sealing mechanisms for mounting equipment to prevent water ingress.

Establish a budget for solar panels, considering the balance between cost and quality. Cheaper panels may save money initially but could compromise long-term efficiency and durability. Compare prices, system components, warranties, and services offered. Consider the return on investment, evaluating potential savings on batteries or shore power over time.

Renogy 350 Watt Solar Flexible Kit on flybridge Bimini. Renogy photo.

Brand reputation

Check for good brand ratings and customer satisfaction as indicators of a reliable purchase. Ensure satisfaction with the warranty, recognizing that while durable, solar panels are not invincible.

Type of solar panel

Select a panel type based on location needs. Rigid panels are durable and efficient but heavier, while flexible and semi-flexible options offer versatility. Portable panels are easy and ideal for small electronic devices.

Accessories

Consider additional accessories like charge controllers, inverters, mounting brackets, hardware, and batteries. Some brands may require specific accessories. Solar kits can simplify the process.

Installation

Decide on the installation approach based on your system size. Hiring an installer may save time, while a DIY approach can save money but requires more research and execution time.

Solar can be a valuable addition to most boats. While it requires research and investment, the long-term benefits, including enhanced life at sea, often make it worthwhile. We look forward to witnessing advancements in the solar energy industry. Your solar journey is an exciting endeavor that, with careful consideration, can significantly improve your boating experience.

Written By: Denelle Balach

Denelle Balach is a lifelong boat enthusiast who has spent her days at Lake Erie on kayaks, speedboats, and anything in between. She channels her passion for boating and writing into concise, engaging content for boating and yachting publications and maritime agencies. She can be reached through her website: www.denelle-balach.com .

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6 Best Solar Panels for Sailboats in 2023

Categories Boating

Solar panels are a great way to power your boat and enjoy off-grid benefits. You can use them for charging batteries, running lights, or even providing you with hot water. The best solar panels for sailboats are those that can withstand the harsh marine environment and provide you with clean, quiet energy.

Six best solar panels for sailboats

Here are our top six picks for the best solar panels for sailboats:

Renogy Flexible Solar Panel 175 Watt 12 Volt

This Renogy solar panel is one of the best options for a sailboat. This product has an efficiency rate of 16-18% and will produce an average of 175 watts.

The Renogy flexible solar panel is a durable and lightweight product that can easily mount on any surface.

The best feature of this product is the 10-year warranty that Renogy provides. This solar panel can be used in any weather condition and will not become damaged or broken easily.

The best part about this product is the price. It is one of the most affordable solar panels that you can purchase. This product is perfect for any boat or RV and will provide a reliable energy source.

6 Best Solar Panels for Sailboats in 2023- 1

No products found.

HQST 100 Watt 12V Solar Panel

The HQST 100-watt solar panel is one of the best solar panels for sailboats. The HQST 100-watt solar panel can charge multiple batteries and other devices.

The HQST 100-watt solar panel is highly efficient as it can charge multiple batteries and other devices.

The HQST 100-watt solar panel is eco-friendly and durable. The HQST 100-watt solar panel is a one-time investment that will save you money in the long run.

The HQST 100-watt solar panel is water resistant, shockproof, and has an anti-corrosion coating.

6 Best Solar Panels for Sailboats in 2023- 2

Topsolar Flexible Solar Panel 100W 24V/12V

The Topsolar Flexible Solar Panel 100W 24V/12V is an excellent option for sailboats. It is a practical, semi-flexible, cheap option. The connectors are incredibly robust and withstand lots of wear and tear over time.

The maximum energy absorption is crucial if you want to increase the performance of your solar panel.

The Topsolar Flexible Solar Panel can be mounted on pretty much any vessel, either flat on the surface of your deck or curved around the mast. This is an excellent feature as it allows you to take advantage of the sun’s energy no matter what shape your boat is.

You can use the Topsolar Flexible Solar Panel with the Topsolar Tripod for mounting your boat’s mast.

This is a great option to consider if you want something that will improve your sailboat’s performance without breaking the bank.

6 Best Solar Panels for Sailboats in 2023- 3

SunPower Flexible 110W Solar Panel

The SunPower Flexible Solar Panel is made with high-quality materials, ensuring durability. The solar panel can be easily portable and flexible. The solar panel has a five-year warranty on power and a two-year warranty on the product.

The solar panel is lightweight and has a durable build. The output quality of the solar panel may deteriorate over time, but you can use the extended warranty to address this issue.

The solar panel is also weatherproof, so the elements will not damage it. The only disadvantage of this solar panel is the price.

6 Best Solar Panels for Sailboats in 2023- 4

Newpowa 30W Watts 12V Solar Panel

The Newpowa 30W Watts 12V Mono Solar Panel is one of the best solar panels for sailboats. The Newpowa 30W Watts 12V Mono Solar Panel is a high-efficiency solar panel perfect for sailboats.

It is a monocrystalline solar panel that offers a 25-year transferrable warranty against a drop in power output.

The Newpowa 30W Watts 12V Mono Solar Panel is a 100% waterproof solar panel that can protect things when the doors and the soft or hardtop roofs are removed.

The Newpowa 30W Watts 12V Mono Solar Panel is a durable solar panel that can withstand weather conditions and sunlight exposure.

6 Best Solar Panels for Sailboats in 2023- 5

ECO-WORTHY 100 Watt Solar Panel

The ECO-WORTHY 100 Watt Solar Panel is one of the best solar panels for sailboats. This panel type comes with a warranty and IP65 water and dustproof rating.

This solar panel is lightweight (only 13 pounds) and has all the accessories needed to install it on your boat. The panel is easy to install and waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about any damage from the rain or water splashes.

The ECO-WORTHY solar panel is designed to work well with different types of boats. It has everything you need to install on your boat, including a mounting bracket and an MC4 connector cable.

6 Best Solar Panels for Sailboats in 2023- 6

How to choose the right solar panels for your boat

To choose the right solar panels for your boat, you must determine how much power your boat uses. The first step is to determine how many amp hours your appliances use daily.

You can use a battery monitor to measure the energy your fridge, lights, or the other appliances on your boat consume while in use.

After finding the amp hours your boat uses per day, you can determine the wattage of power your solar panels need to produce. For example, if you have a 50-watt panel and use 30 amp hours per day, you would need two 50-watt panels to produce enough power for your needs.

Additional things to consider are whether you need a charge controller and if you have enough unshaded space for your solar panels to absorb the maximum amount of sunlight.

What are Flexible and Rigid Solar Panels?

Rigid solar panels are more efficient but less robust than flexible panels. Monocrystalline cells offer a better output than polycrystalline cells. The output voltage depends on the number of cells on the panel.

Module efficiency is now more often around the 20% mark, as opposed to 12-15% for older models and semi-flexible (up to 20° bend) is usually better than flexible (up to 180° bend).

If the maker offers a 25-year guarantee instead of a 3-5 year one, you can be pretty confident they’re good. Regarding charge controllers, it’s worth paying a little more for a decent MPPT.

How many solar panels do I need for my sailboat?

You will need between 2-8 solar panels for your sailboat. The amount you need depends on the size of your sailboat and how many electronics you need to power. 2-4 panels should be enough if you have a small sailboat. For larger boats with more electronics, 4-8 panels are recommended.

What are the benefits of solar panels for sailboats?

Solar panels are a great alternative to running a gasoline generator or taking power from the grid. Solar panels are eco-friendly and can be a lifesaver if you are at sea for a long time. Solar panels can provide comfort amenities such as access to a tv, microwave oven, etc.

Solar panels are an excellent option for sailboats because they are eco-friendly and have many benefits that make sailing more enjoyable. The best solar panels for sailboats are durable, easy to install, and produce a lot of power.

What are the disadvantages of solar panels for sailboats?

Solar panels for sailboats rely on the sun on to generate electricity. Sailboats are limited in space and cannot carry large solar panels. Solar panels can be expensive to install on a sailboat. Solar panels for sailboats are less efficient on cloudy days.

How much do solar panels for sailboats cost?

Solar panels for sailboats cost a few hundred dollars each. Permanent solar panels can cost one or two thousand dollars in some cases. Portable solar panels can cost just a few hundred dollars each.

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.

Do I need a professional to install solar panels for sailboats?

You do not need a professional to install solar panels for sailboats. Solar panels can be installed on sailboats by anyone that is reasonably handy. You can also install solar panels yourself if you are handy.

If you do not feel comfortable installing solar panels yourself, you can hire a professional to install the system for you. An excellent marine electrician will be able to help with your solar panel installation.

Are Solar Panels Safe On Sailboat Boats?

Solar panels are generally safe to use on boats. The panels themselves have a minimal risk of starting fires. However, if they are damaged, they may become unsafe.

Solar panels are covered by glass that keeps them safe from sharp shards of glass. However, if the panel gets wet, it can become deadly due to the combination of electricity and water.

Top 13 Best Marine Solar Panels for Boats

Post author: Alex Mitch
Post last modified: January 25, 2024
Post category: Gadgets & Equipment / Sailing & Boats

According to a Harvard University article, solar cost decreases will increase solar production by at least 700% by 2050. This means that solar boat panels may become one of the main components for any boat in the future.

Why is solar a great choice for your boat? Having a solar powered boat means you’re getting a lower power load and less penalty for carrying the extra weight. You can generate power as you go or at anchor, and store it, then use that electricity to power your motor, boat appliances, and accessories when you need it.

Solar could very soon become one of our main sources of power.

Are solar panels for boats worth the investment? Definitely YES. Not only can they lower your power load, but you’ll also save money generating free electricity. Your solar boat may be able to take trips completely on solar. Having a solar sailboat means charging your batteries even while away, and having your boat ready to go when you get back.

Solar panels below are one of the best in quality, SunPower in particular. Whether you’re sailing across Lake Michigan or around the world they’re great for you to enjoy some free, clean, and quiet power.

Disclaimer : Some of the links in this article are affiliate links that may provide me with a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend only the best products and services. Read about affiliate disclosure in my privacy policy .

What are the best solar panels for boats?

SunPower Flexible 100W Monocrystalline .
Newpowa 100W 12V Semi-Flex.
SunPower 110W Flexible .
RICH SOLAR 100Wx2 12V Polycrystalline .
Topsolar Flexible 100Wx2 Bendable .
SunPower Flexible 50W Monocrystalline .
HQST 100W 12V Monocrystalline .
Renogy 100W 12V Solar Starter Kit .
Newpowa 100W 12V Polycrystalline .
Newpowa 25W Monocrystalline 12V .
Renogy 100W 12V Monocrystalline .
WEIZE 100Wx2 12V Monocrystalline .
Newpowa 30W Monocrystalline 12V .

1. SunPower Flexible 100W Monocrystalline

Most efficient flexible solar panel

SunPower Flexible 100W Monocrystalline Solar Panel for Boats

SunPower and Maxeon offer the best flexible solar panels in the industry. Highest quality, flexible, durable, and highly efficient. Curved solar panels usually bring lower efficiency, but with SunPower, you get the highest conversions in the industry.

Given its impressive efficiency rate, this solar panel can effectively compensate for energy needs on longer boat trips without requiring excessive space. For those sailing in unpredictable weather, SunPower acts as a trusty companion, ensuring a steady energy inflow even when the skies aren’t clear.

As the marine environment can be unpredictable, the best marine solar panels are those that maintain efficiency even in partially shaded or overcast conditions. And Sunpower solar panels offer pretty good efficiency even in shadows or in cloudy weather.

Buy from: Amazon

Highlights:

Highest efficiency in the industry 22-25%
lightweight and top quality build
Charges even on cloudy days
a high-quality top polymer layer

2. Newpowa 100W 12V Semi-Flex Lightweight

Best ultra-flexible solar panel

Newpowa 100W 12V Semi-Flex Lightweight Solar Panel for Boats

Newpowa is known for good quality, and this 100W semi flexible solar panel is one of the best at the moment. It’s highly flexible and light, yet stiff and robust. You’ll know when you see it, the quality speaks for itself. Its unique build allows it to adapt seamlessly to the contours of your boat, ensuring maximum sunlight capture without compromising on the aesthetics of your vessel.

A noteworthy feature is its adaptability in sub-optimal light conditions, meaning even during dawn or dusk, you’re harnessing energy.

Buy from: Newpowa website , or Amazon

high quality build, flexible but stiff
great output at lower light levels and sub-optimal angles
very easy to position and mount
easy to manage, lightweight and durable

3. SunPower 110W Flexible Solar Panel

Highest quality marine solar panel

SunPower 110W Flexible Solar Panel for Boats

Flawless solar panel, SunPower delivers only the best solar panels for boats, and you won’t be disappointed. With its unparalleled marine specialization, SunPower has established a reputation for panels that thrive even in the challenging conditions of open water.

Boaters often praise its resilience against salty sea air, an often overlooked, yet critical aspect of marine solar panels.

the highest efficiency in the industry
Lightweight and portable
durable, reliable, high-quality build
may need to buy a tool to disconnect

4. RICH SOLAR 100Wx2 12V Polycrystalline

Best solar panel for the money

RICH SOLAR 100Wx2 12V Polycrystalline Solar Panels for boats

If you’re looking for an economic choice without compromising on efficiency, RICH SOLAR offers the best of both worlds. Its versatility extends beyond boats, making it an ideal option for those who might want to use it for multiple purposes, be it for their RV or an off-grid home.

These RICH SOLAR panels are one of the best solar panels for the money, right now. They can put out above 100W in the clear sun, and yet give you excellent low light performance as well. Great for trolling motors and boat appliances , solar homes , and RVs .

high efficiency and sturdy design
can produce above 100 watts
good even in low light
cheap and affordable

5. Topsolar Flexible 100Wx2 Bendable

Best flexible solar panel for the money

Topsolar Flexible 100Wx2 Bendable Solar Panels for boats

For those navigating tighter spaces or unconventional boat designs, the Topsolar’s bendability is a game-changer, allowing solar energy capture in places rigid panels can’t reach. Its ETFE material not only adds a sleek finish but also offers enhanced durability against wear and tear, especially when compared to traditional materials.

This is an excellent semi-flexible solar panel , with good conversion efficiency. Bendable solar panels are great if you don’t have the space to mount the fixed ones, especially on a narrowboat.

high conversion efficiency for a flexible panel
lightweight, and easy to install
high quality ETFE material, great looking
more resistant than aluminum solar panels

6. SunPower Flexible 50W Monocrystalline

Most efficient 50W Flexible Solar Panel

SunPower Flexible 50W Monocrystalline Solar Panel for boats

If you want the highest quality when it comes to solar panels for boats , then SunPower and Maxeon is the way to go, and this 50W flexible solar panel is no exception. With 2.8amps and with a good charge controller you can get this panel up to 45-50 watts every time.

Even with its compact size, this 50W panel from SunPower doesn’t compromise on efficiency, making it perfect for smaller vessels or as an auxiliary panel for larger setups. Its robust build ensures longevity, so you won’t be looking for replacements any time soon, ensuring value for every penny spent.

high-quality build
highest efficiency in the industry 22-25%
produces power even in cloudy days and partial shadows
robust and flexible

7. HQST 100W 12V Monocrystalline

Best budget 100W solar panel

HQST 100W 12V Monocrystalline Marine Solar Panel

The HQST panel is a testament that quality marine solar panels don’t always come with a hefty price tag. A boon for budget-conscious sailors. Its ability to perform in low-light conditions means that even during overcast days, your boat’s energy needs are addressed.

This affordable 100W monocrystalline high-efficiency marine solar panel from HQST is another great choice as far as fixed solar panels go. It’s budget-friendly, yet performs nicely in low-light environments.

high efficiency of 21%
pretty good in low-light environments
easy to install

8. Renogy 100W 12V Solar Starter Kit

Best solar panel kit for boat

Renogy 100W 12V Solar Starter Kit for Boats

An all-in-one solar power system, good for beginners. One of the best marine solar panel kits for the money. Built for reliability, this Renogy kit is easy to set up, durable and has everything to get you started with solar.

For newcomers to the world of marine solar power, this Renogy kit acts as a stepping stone, encompassing everything you’d need to embark on sustainable sailing. One of its highlights is the ability to add more panels via its controller, ensuring that as your energy needs grow, your system can keep pace.

Buy from: Renogy website , or Amazon

High efficiency of 21%
easy and minimal to set up
Controller can accept more panels
keeps your batteries charged/cycling during the winter

9. Newpowa 100W 12V Polycrystalline

Great value for the money

Newpowa 100W 12V Polycrystalline Marine Solar Panel

This affordable Newpowa marine solar panel is still highly efficient, durable, and does what it’s supposed to. These panels are proving to be an excellent long-term choice for sailboats , homes and RVs .

Despite its affordability, this Newpowa panel rivals its pricier counterparts in efficiency and durability, ensuring your sailboat is powered for the long haul. Its compact design doesn’t just add to the aesthetics but also ensures that even boats with limited space can harness solar power effectively.

high efficiency
good performance in lower light conditions
high quality construction
good looking compact design

10. Newpowa 25W 12V Monocrystalline

Best 25W solar panel for the money

Newpowa 25W 12V Monocrystalline Solar Panel for Boats

Being only 25W, these Newpowa rigid solar panels are a great deal for this size, at only $1.56 per watt. Prices are dropping rapidly, but this is still great for such a small panel.

Don’t be fooled by its modest wattage. This Newpowa panel packs a punch in efficiency and is perfect for those smaller energy tasks on your boat. Its price-per-watt ratio is compelling evidence that great things can indeed come in small packages, especially in the realm of marine solar panels.

can generate above 25W at full sunlight
can provide above 1.4 amps
quality in production and highest efficiency
easy to install and very durable

11. Renogy 100W 12V Monocrystalline

Great bang for the buck

Renogy 100W 12V Monocrystalline Solar Panel for Boat

Renogy doesn’t just produce solar panels; they craft reliable energy sources. This 100W panel stands as a testament to their commitment to quality. Its ability to generate power even under cloud cover ensures your boat’s essential appliances keep running, irrespective of the weather.

Renogy is well-known for good production, and this 100Watt solar panel is of pretty good quality in the realm of marine solar panels . Extremely popular, with very little downside.

decent quality with high efficiency
lighter, smaller, and sturdier than your average panel
a good amount of power in cloudy weather

12. WEIZE 100Wx2 12V Monocrystalline

200W of Solar under $200

WEIZE 100Wx2 12V Monocrystalline Solar Panels for Boats

Double the power without burning a hole in your pocket. These WEIZE panels redefine what affordability paired with efficiency looks like. Especially suitable for those with higher energy demands, this duo ensures that your boat’s battery remains charged and ready for whatever adventure lies ahead.

With such high-efficiency levels, these two WEIZE 100W solar panels can easily charge a decent deep cycle battery in a matter of hours and could be enough for most of your power needs.

21% efficiency
good quality for the price
15.8lbs, accessories not included

13. Newpowa 30W 12V Monocrystalline

Good value for a small panel

Newpowa 30W 12V Monocrystalline Marine Solar Panel

In the world of marine solar panels, the Newpowa 30W stands out as a reliable companion for smaller boats or as an auxiliary for larger setups. Its adaptability means you can easily integrate it into an existing solar array, ensuring you squeeze out every bit of sun for your boat’s needs.

At only $1.43 per watt, these powerful little Newpowa solar panels are a great choice for a solar sailboat , as they can safely but surely lighten your power load.

efficient, sturdy and quality build
affordable and easy to add to an existing system
high cell efficiency

What kind of marine solar panels to choose?

To get the best conversion and to catch most of the solar energy, consider getting rigid, fixed mounting solar panels . You can position them directly at the sun as you move around, and they have higher conversion rates compared to flexible solar panels.

Selecting the best marine solar panels involves considering not just power output, but also the panel’s resistance to saltwater corrosion.

If you’re unable to place those, then go for flexible solar panels , also called bendable solar panels, which have lower efficiency, but can be easier to place on some boats. Flexible solar panels require very little space because you can mount them almost anywhere. They are aerodynamic, which is a great choice if speed is important to you. On the downside, you’ll get slightly lower energy conversions.

There’s also the option of walkable solar panels , which are flexible solar panels on which you can walk. They can cover a larger area and are popular on narrowboats. The drawbacks are that it will also lower their lifespan a little, and they tend to be lower in wattage.

Here’s a great video to get you started:

Flexible solar panels for boats vs rigid

Here are the main differences between rigid and flexible solar panels:

Rigid solar panels are generally less expensive, more efficient at converting sun into electricity, and you can angle them at any time towards the sun to produce the most power.

Flexible solar panels are generally more expensive, and less efficient at converting energy, but you can place them on curved surfaces. You can walk on some of them.

Often overlooked, an optimal tilt and rotation mechanism can enhance the efficiency of the best solar panels for a sailboat, adapting to the sun’s position throughout the day. Which one should you choose depends entirely on your needs, available space, and personal preference.

What components do you need for solar on a boat?

There are four main components in a marine solar panel system:

solar panels
charge controller

Solar panels absorb energy from the sunlight, and generate electricity, even in cloudy weather. The sunnier it is, and the better alignment of the solar panel towards the sun, the more electricity it produces.

Charge controllers prevent batteries from overcharging. We use them to regulate power input and deliver optimal power output.

Inverter converts direct current (DC) electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity. Most appliances and equipment today use AC power, so inverters are crucial in a solar power energy system.

Finally, batteries store energy from your solar panels for later use. For solar power, we usually use lead-acid deep-cycle batteries of different sizes. One thing to remember: try not to let your deep-cycle battery discharge below 50%, to maximize the number of future charge/discharge cycles.

You also need connecting cables to connect everything, and optional mounting brackets to install the panel and align it directly at the sun.

How to get the most out of your solar panels

Keep your panels out of shadows . Even if only a small portion of the panel is in shadows, the output can drop a lot. Notice if your mast, radar scanner, or boom will cast shadows on your solar panels.
Keep your panels pointed directly towards the sun . All panels will produce more power when they are getting direct sunlight. The more they’re misaligned the less power they generate.
Keep your panels ventilated . Solar panels will get very hot in the sun, and high temperatures will lower their efficiency. Your panels will get nice ventilation when in the air, but consider using spacers when mounting on deck to allow airflow between panel and deck.

Solar panel power outputs relative to the sun

I’ve put together a simple table to show how solar panels perform under different amounts of light:

Of course, this will largely depend on the quality of your solar panel, but the numbers are constantly improving due to constant solar panel improvements . All in all, it’s always best to align your solar panels towards the sun to get the highest output.

Where to place solar panels on boats?

Common mounting locations for rigid panels are biminis, radar arches, lifelines, decks and hard tops. You can even put them on sticks, with a sturdy backing panel.

Flexible panels can be mounted almost anywhere due to their nature and can be held down with straps and bungee cords. You can place them on canvas dodgers and biminis, dinghy davits, and sail covers.

What size solar panel will charge a 12v 100Ah battery?

If your panel puts out a 100W that’s about 7A. Theoretically, it would take about 14-15 hours for a 100W solar panel to charge a completely discharged 100Ah battery. In a real-world scenario, you’ll be charging a 50% discharged battery. In this case, it would take about 8-10 hours for a 100W solar panel to charge a 50% discharged lead-acid deep-cycle 100Ah battery.

Depth of Discharge is crucial to battery life. Usually, your lead-acid deep-cycle battery shouldn’t go below 50% of discharge to maximize its lifespan. So the 14-15 hours is a theoretical timespan, given perfect conditions.

The bigger the panel, the faster it will charge a battery, but you also need to buy a higher current, such as a higher charge controller.

Here’s an interactive calculator to figure out how much solar power you need.

Real-world tips to reduce power consumption on a boat

Before adding more panels, try reducing your power consumption. Here are some tips on how to do so:

Add insulation to your fridge . Fridges can use a lot of power because they work constantly. Extra insulation can reduce power consumption by 3-4 times.
Don’t buy cheap Peltier element fridges . They don’t cool well and are huge power hogs.
Get a decent solar charge controller , such as Victron MPPT controller , which is more expensive but has better efficiency and durability.
When investing in the best solar panels for a boat, it’s essential to also consider the warranty and after-sales service, ensuring long-term reliability on open waters.
Use LED lights . You can replace a standard 60W light bulb with one 6-7W LED light bulb. That’s 8-10 less power consumption.
Measure how much power you need for navigation , and what can be used instead of your current electronics that use a lot of electricity.
Make sure you have enough batteries to store all that power. No point in generating 300 Watts with nowhere to store it.

Hi, I'm the founder of HowMonk.com! Having been in finance and tech for 10+ years, I was surprised at how hard it can be to find answers to common questions in finance, tech and business in general. Because of this, I decided to create this website to help others!

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Captain Curran's sailing blog: Solar panels for boats: an easy
How to Choose a Solar Panel System for your Sailboat, RV, or Home
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Top 10 Best Solar Panels for a Boat in 2024!

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COMMENTS

Top 3 Best Solar Panels For Sailboats
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.
Sailing with solar power: A practical guide
THE AVAILABLE SPACE. In practical terms, a modern 40ft monohull would have the space for around 1,200W of PV panels (cockpit arch, sprayhood top, deck), maybe 1,500W with the addition of a few portable panels for use at anchor. The 1,200W of fixed position solar array could produce around 360Ah on a sunny summer's day (zero shading) or more ...
Picking the best solar panels for a sailboat: Buyer's guide
The best solar panels for sailboats don't have to be powerful, but they better be efficient — find the number in the datasheet. For rigid panels anything over 18-19% is fine. Panels also should be sturdy enough to withstand seastorms. You generally also want good shading tolerance since panels often get shaded by masts and sails.
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.
Best Solar panels for off-grid power and keeping batteries charged
Here's our choice of the best boat solar panels. 6 of the best boat solar panels available right now. Giosolar 1,000W flexible solar panel. Best flexible boat solar panel. Delivering a mighty kilowatt of power, (not far off the amount used by a one bedroom house), this Giostar package comprises ten separate 100W panels, each of which is 1,050 ...
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.
9 Best Solar Panels for Sailboats
We had a 200w setup, nothing fancy but enough to supply our need for sailing the Bahamas. You will need between 2-8 solar panels for your sailboat. The exact amount depends on your sailboat's space and how many electronics you need to power. Most solar panels can absorb between 100-300 watts per hour.
How to select and size a solar system for your boat
What type of solar panel is best for my sailboat? There are two primary solar panel categories to investigate: monocrystalline vs. polycrystalline cells; rigid vs. semi-flexible panels; Solar Panels Left to Right: 50 and 100 Watt Flexible, 100 Watt Polycrystalline Rigid, 150 Watt Monocrystalline Rigid
The Best Solar Panels for Boats of 2024
These solar panels have aluminum and tempered glass frames, ensuring a durable and weather-resistant use. Weighing 2.75 pounds and measuring 2.32 x 13.86 x 17.13 inches, they are compact and portable. Pros. Easy to store and carry. They come in a complete kit. Provide excellent weather resistance.
Top 5 Best Solar Panels for Boats (2024 Marine Buyer's Guide)
SunPower 170W Solar Panel. SunPower is a leader in the residential solar industry, so it's no surprise that we found that the company also makes the best solar panels for use on boats. This panel is pricey, but it's significantly more powerful than most other options.
Solar panel question/Recommendations
Highest Efficiency (up to 25.4%)And Best Flexible, Rigid, And Walkable Marine Solar Panels For Your Boat in 2023. We'll help you decide on the right solar panels to meet your power needs. Marine solar panels with best Sunpower cells, 23.7-25.4%+ efficient, A+ grade solar cells only.
Best Solar Panels For Sailboats of 2024
WATTS/AMPS: 400W/22A. SIZE: 4 x 47.0" x 21.3" x 2.0". PROS: Includes x4 100W panels along with a charge controller and everything else needed to set up, ideal for sailors looking for a lot of power, easy mounting system, great price for a comprehensive kit. CONS: Rigid solar panels can only be on flat surfaces or mounted on rails ...
Estimating Solar Panel Size for Boats
Finally, total your charging sources, including engine, wind, and solar. For solar, take the rated wattage x 5 hours/12 = amp-hours while on passage and wattage x 7 hours/12 = amp-hours while at anchor (sails do not shade and the boom can be rigged out to the side). This is far below the rated capacity-sailors in the tropics will do better, and ...
9 Best Marine Solar Panels for Your Boat in 2024
Voltage: 12V. These solar panels by SUNER POWER are built with high-efficiency polycrystalline cells, giving me great performance even with the small energy output. They emit up to 30 watts of power to use as free energy on the boat. This kit charges our batteries safely.
8 Best Boat Solar Panels in 2024
3. ACOPOWER 35W Polycrystalline Sailboat Solar Panel. Specifically designed for boats, this small polycrystalline solar panel provides 35 watts of power. It's highly efficient with a conversion rate up to 19.1%, so you'll get the maximum amount of power output in return for the precious space on your boat.
Best Marine Solar Panels
Best Marine Solar Panels For Sailboats, Power Boats and Yachts for Keeping The Batteries Charged (updated 3/2018) Keeping our batteries charged was a never-ending problem while cruising on our Catalina 34 sailboat. The electrical requirement for lighting, VHF, and refrigeration to keep a few drinks cold would drain our batteries. Our only way ...
Best Solar Panels For Sailboats in 2023
If you need a quick selection of hand-picked solar panels for your boat, then here's a selection of the best marine solar panels for sailboats available right now: The Best Marine Solar Panels For Boats. OUR PICK: BougeRV ★★★★★ 4.6. High efficiency: 22.8%; Monocrystalline;
How to choose the right solar panels for your boat
Marine solar panels are a relatively niche market, but there are plenty of options to choose from since typically, you can install any DIY off-grid solar panel on your boat. Our favorite solar panels for boats are: Topsolar flexible solar panel. Renogy 100W 12V solar panel. SunPower 170W solar panel. Below, we get into the best solar panels to ...
The Best Solar Panels for Boats, Top Brands on the Market
GoPower! GoPower! is another excellent brand offering solar panels specializing in flexible panels. Their aerodynamic, durable, and lightweight panels feature a low profile while ensuring high efficiency through monocrystalline cells. These panels easily conform to almost any surface without compromising power output.
6 Best Solar Panels for Sailboats in 2023
Renogy Flexible Solar Panel 175 Watt 12 Volt. This Renogy solar panel is one of the best options for a sailboat. This product has an efficiency rate of 16-18% and will produce an average of 175 watts. The Renogy flexible solar panel is a durable and lightweight product that can easily mount on any surface.
Top 10 Best Solar Panels For Sailboats
The Renogy 400W Solar Kit is perfect for those that plan to use their solar panels as the primary source of energy on the sailboat. You get four 100 W panels that can provide you with as much as 2000 watt hours a day. These panels can charge a 200Ah marine battery at least half way full within three hours. On Sale.
Top 13 Best Marine Solar Panels for Boats
And Sunpower solar panels offer pretty good efficiency even in shadows or in cloudy weather. Buy from: Amazon. Highlights: Highest efficiency in the industry 22-25%. lightweight and top quality build. Charges even on cloudy days. a high-quality top polymer layer. 2. Newpowa 100W 12V Semi-Flex Lightweight.

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Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

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