Marine

'Service' batteries provide power for everything except for 'engine-starting'. Demand for on-board electricity has to be matched with an adequate battery bank.

Lithium Batteries provide the best solution for applications with high power demand. Compared to lead/acid technology they are smaller and about 70% lighter for their power capacity. They can be deeply discharged, without harm. More current is available throughout the discharge cycle …and they can be cycled thousands of times - resulting in a much longer service life.

It is also 'easier' to get power into Lithium batteries - so the charging time is reduced. Victron lithium batteries use lithium iron phosphate technology - which is safe and robust.

'Service' batteries provide power for everything except for 'engine-starting'. Demand for on-board electricity has to be matched with an adequate battery bank.

Lithium Batteries provide the best solution for high power demand. 

Compared to lead/acid technology they are smaller and about 70% lighter for their capacity. They can be deeply discharged, without harm. More current is available throughout the discharge cycle …and they can be cycled thousands of times - resulting in a much longer service life. It is also 'easier' to drive power back into Lithium batteries - so charging-time is reduced.

Victron lithium batteries use lithium iron phosphate technology - which is safe and robust.

A battery charger converts shore power to a DC current suitable for recharging the boat's batteries.

Victron chargers feature a seven-step charge algorithm to deliver the fastest, fullest charge.  Optionally the charge cycle can include a reconditioning phase - the occasional use of which maintains battery capacity, and prolongs their life.

Victron charges can be left connected to a battery throughout the winter - without fear of damage.

A monitoring device is an information gateway, showing at-a-glance the battery state of charge; how much power is being consumed; and how much is being generated.

The Victron 'Color Control' allows the user advanced access to tailor the entire electrical system. Alarms can be set to warn of low power, or high demand; automatic switches can control power demand, automatically start the generator - or to switch on lighting, to coincide with nightfall.

Connecting the Color Control to the internet even provides monitoring and remote set-up from a smart phone or device from anywhere in the world.  

A sailing boat uses its engine infrequently, and so has fewer opportunities to recharge its batteries from an alternator.

Electricity generation on a sailing boat is often supplemented by wind and solar power.

A sailing yacht will commonly be equipped with VHF Radio, Chart Plotter or GPS; Navtex; Log/Depth sounder; auto pilot; masthead nav lights - together with high powered devices such as a windlass or bow thruster.

In addition there will be power for leisure services - perhaps a shower-pump; hot air blower; music entertainment and mobile-device plug-in.

A small boat will usually be fitted with an outboard engine.

If it has an in-board engine it will be provided with an alternator for battery charging.

It is important not to drain the battery so deeply that it can no longer start the engine.

All the electronic devices you would expect to find in the home or office can also be powered on board a Large Yacht.

Entertainment suites will be equipped with audio, movie, and computer resources. In the galley coffee making equipment, together with kitchen appliances such as mixers, microwaves, dishwashers, fridge-freezer; wine-cooler; bread-maker will also be common.

Sometimes laundry rooms may be found on board. Victron Inverters are easily able to provide upwards of 60kW AC power from a sufficiently sized battery bank.

An inverter/charger allows household and office equipment to be run using the boat batteries.

The Victron Quattro can be connected to shore power and a generator at the same time - switching automatically to whichever is providing power.

If on-board power demand becomes higher than the generator, or shore supply can deliver - the Quattro has a unique feature to meet demand: PowerAssist automatically adds battery power to the generator/shore supply without a break. It also does this if shore power fails - so quickly, in fact, that the Quattro acts as an uninterrupted power supply.

Our inverters have very low minimum current limits - allowing them to be used with private power grids found in Marina's. 

And units can be combined to provide three-phase power - for  bow thrusters, and large pumps, etc.

An inverter/charger allows you to run 'household' and 'office' electronic devices using your boat battery.

Even sensitive computer-controlled devices run faultlessly on the Pure sine wave power. High peak-power capability allows the use of motorised equipment, too - efficiently, quietly, and without overheating.

With superior build-quality, our inverters are packed with features - some of which are unique - and they are scalable, too, to provide very high capacity - or even three-phase power ...which is often required for heavy loads such as bow thrusters, and larger pumps.

Battery monitors answer the BIG question: How much power remains in my battery ...as a percentage?

A voltmeter can't tell you that because the information requires complex calculation.

The battery monitor records all power-in and power-out; it takes into account battery age and condition; capacity; and temperature. And its reading remains accurate whether the battery is discharging, or recharging ...or doing both. 

The BMV also tells you for how long your battery will be able to sustain the current load; it can warn you of 'alarm' conditions - such as low voltage/high drain; and it can be programmed to shut-down power-supply to avoid critical battery damage ...and to ensure that there is always sufficient power to re-start the engine.

Battery monitors answer the BIG question: What percentage of power remains in my battery?

A voltmeter can't tell you that - because it requires complex calculation. 

Battery monitors record all power consumed, and all power received. They take into account the age and condition of the battery; their capacity and temperature. And the monitor-reading is accurate even whilst the battery is being charged or discharged; ...or doing both. 

The monitor can also tell you for how long your battery will be able to sustain its current load; it can warn you of 'alarm' conditions - such as low voltage/high drain; and it can be programmed to shut-down power-supply in order to avoid critical battery damage ...and to ensure that there is always sufficient power to re-start the engine.

Battery monitors answer the BIG question: What percentage of power remains in my battery?

A voltmeter can't tell you that - because it requires complex calculation. 

Battery monitors record all power consumed, and all power received. They take into account the age and condition of the battery; their capacity and temperature. And the monitor-reading is accurate even whilst the battery is being charged or discharged; ...or doing both. 

The monitor can also tell you for how long your battery will be able to sustain its current load; it can warn you of 'alarm' conditions - such as low voltage/high drain; and it can be programmed to shut-down power-supply in order to avoid critical battery damage ...and to ensure that there is always sufficient power to re-start the engine.

BatteryProtect will shut down power to on-board loads whenever the battery voltage falls below a preset level.

This avoids expensive damage caused by crippling the battery. It works intelligently - built-in shut-down delays ensure that the device will not shut-down vital electronics due to a short-term high-demand ...when you start your engine, for example.

It will automatically re-connect the system when the battery is sufficiently re-charged.

BatteryProtect will shut down power whenever the battery voltage falls below a preset level. 

This ensures that the battery will never be too 'flat' to start the engine - and it avoids causing expensive damage by crippling the battery.

BatteryProtect works intelligently: Built-in shut-down delays ensure that the device will not disconnect power to vital electronics in error ...for example due to a power-drop when you start your engine. 

And it will automatically re-connect power when the battery is sufficiently re-charged.

BatteryProtect will shut down power whenever the battery voltage falls below a preset level. 

This ensures that the battery will never be too 'flat' to start the engine - and it avoids causing expensive damage by crippling the battery. 

BatteryProtect works intelligently: Built-in shut-down delays ensure that the device will not disconnect power to vital electronics in error ...for example due to a power-drop when you start your engine. 

And it will automatically re-connect power when the battery is sufficiently re-charged.

BatteryProtect will shut down power whenever the battery voltage falls below a preset level. 

This ensures that the battery will never be too 'flat' to start the engine - and it avoids causing expensive damage by crippling the battery. 

BatteryProtect works intelligently: Built-in shut-down delays ensure that the device will not disconnect power to vital electronics in error ...for example due to a power-drop when you start your engine. 

And it will automatically re-connect power when the battery is sufficiently re-charged.

Electronics such as Fish-finders; log/depth sounders; chart-plotters; music players; and phone chargers - when added together - place considerable demands on the battery.

It is vital to ensure that there is a generous battery capacity to allow the use of all on-board equipment, with plenty of power left to start the engine - particularly when only one battery is installed.

Hairdryers; Kettles; Toasters; Microwaves; Vacuum Cleaners; Espresso Machines; TVs are all frequently enjoyed on board.

In fact the only household appliances which are not often found a boat are those which also use water - Dishwashers and Washing Machines. But even here a Desalination plant (which removes the salt from sea water) will provide a fresh water supply so that these appliances, too, become possible on-board installations.

It is likely that the navigational electronics found on a Large yacht will be equal with commercial shipping.

Operating 24 hours/day, there may be global communication; electronic navigation and tracking systems - together with weather information.

There may be tank-level monitoring; together with engine room and accommodation environment monitoring and control systems.

Many of these sensitive controls require a high-quality ultra-reliable power supply. Victron Inverters are built for professional use, employing the latest technology, using superior components, they can provide almost unlimited power for a wide range of applications.

They constantly monitor demand, and respond with very fast switching times.

Large Yachts capable of 'Blue Water' sailing will be equipped with marine engines similar to those used in commercial vessels.

Designed for continuous operation with minimum service, they will be required to drive the vessel for perhaps thousands of nautical miles across remote oceans; to drive the desalination plant; to drive hydraulic devices such as winches and windlasses; and of course to provide electricity for domestic, navigation, and temperature-controlled environments.

Large yachts with their heavy displacement are often provided with powerful thrusters, winches, pumps and pressure-washers which require a three-phase power source.

Catering for large number of guests and crew requires 'commercial' catering equipment. In professional kitchens electric range-cookers; pizza ovens and fat-fryers, all need a three phase power supply.

The vessel will also be capable of supplying hot water on-demand in many locations at the same time. To provide this service a three-phase electric boiler may be chosen.

Leisure yachts spend more time in harbour than at sea - and so it is the generator, not the engine, which primarily generates electricity.

Generator use is usually supplemented by battery back-up for use in 'quiet' periods at night; routine shut-downs, or in emergency.

Three-phase power supply for large appliances can be met by combining Inverters - even where the generator has a single-phase output.

Many of the labour-saving devices we expect to find at home will also be a part of life on board a Motor Cruiser.

From coffee makers to pressure-washers; workshop tools to hairdryers - with an efficient, powerful inverter there is no longer any need to 'camp' whilst on board.

All of the luxury and convenience available at home can also be enjoyed on board a Motor Cruiser.

Navigational equipment can be networked with 'tank-senders' or other data monitoring equipment using NMEA communication standards.

The information provides ship-status information and can be used to trigger temperature, voltage, or depletion-alarms and shut downs, contributing to boat safety.

Sailing boats experience longer intervals between battery re-charges - so the service batteries should be provided with generous capacity.

Lithium Batteries provide the best solution for extended power demand.

Compared to lead/acid technology they are smaller and about 70% lighter for their capacity. They can be deeply discharged, without harm. More current is available throughout the discharge cycle …and they can be cycled thousands of times - resulting in a much longer service life. It is also 'easier' to drive power back into Lithium batteries - so charging-time is reduced.

Victron lithium batteries use lithium iron phosphate technology - which is safe and robust.

Sea-water cooled marine or marinized engines are designed to run continuously - sometimes for days on end.

The engine on a Motor Cruiser will unquestionably be sized to provide the vessel with an impressive turn of speed; and to drive high-output alternator(s) capable of supplying electricity for a significant array of on-board electronics.

Some equipment - such as anchor windlasses and bow-thrusters - have such high power-consumption that the engine will need to be running in order to meet it.

Small craft are generally fitted with just one battery which is used for both engine-starting and for service.

It's important that the battery doesn't run 'flat' as it can be damaged ...and will fail to start the engine, of course.

The battery should have a capacity four times greater than the power you expect to draw. This will allow it to be used for powering electronic devices and then starting the engine without falling below the critical level of 50% charge remaining - below which damage will occur.

Cheap batteries are more expensive in the long run.

Solar (PV) panels convert sunlight into electricity.

Where space is limited, install Monocrystalline panels - they have a higher out for their size.

Polycrystalline panels are a less expensive alternative. On a boat it is impractical to keep the panels unshaded, and pointing directly toward the sun ...so extra panels may be required to increase power output.

Solar chargers harvest power from solar panels and store it in batteries.

Using MPPT (Ultrafast Maximum Power Point Tracking), Victron chargers drive-in the optimum current to achieve the fastest, fullest recharge ...constantly optimising the power being received by the solar panels. This is particularly useful in conditions of partial shade - as frequently happens on a boat - or when the panel is not directed toward the sun. Regularly achieving a 100% recharge is essential for battery health.  

Victron Solar Chargers can be monitored and controlled remotely using a computer or smart device via our app 'Victron Remote Management'.

Solar chargers harvest power from solar panels and store it in batteries. 

Ultrafast Maximum Power Point Tracking - Victron chargers constantly monitor the power being received by the panels to drive-in the optimum current, achieving the fastest, fullest battery recharge.  This is particularly useful in conditions of partial shade - as frequently happens on a boat. 

A dynamic 'BatteryLife' feature ensures that even during periods of poor weather the batteries will be returned to 100% charge. Periodically achieving a 100% charge is essential for battery health.

Victron Solar Chargers can be controlled remotely using a computer or smart device via our app 'Victron Remote Management'.

Solar panels - which can be installed on a bridge deck or cabin top make a surprising contribution to the power supply ...offering autonomy from the shore, and freedom from generator noise.

Best of all, they perform without running costs. Monocrystalline Solar panels can be up to 50% more efficient than their Polycrystalline cousins. On a boat - where space is scarce - this advantage might make the extra expense of Monocrystalline worthwhile, as they provide more power per square meter.

Batteries can be charged to about 80% of their capacity very quickly by a generator or alternator, but driving in the last 20% of charge - which is so vital to battery health - takes much longer. Generators are very inefficient for this cycle - whereas Solar Panels can do the job silently, and without wear and tear.

The engine battery’s sole function is to start the engine, and in normal circumstances, it should be isolated from all other circuits.

The battery should be maintained in a task-ready condition ...capable of delivering a lot of power in a sudden burst - even after months of disuse.

The engine battery’s sole function is to start the engine, and in normal circumstances, it should be isolated from all other circuits.

The battery should be maintained in a task-ready condition ...capable of delivering a lot of power in a sudden burst - even after months of disuse.

The engine battery’s sole function is to start the engine, and in normal circumstances, it should be isolated from all other circuits.

The battery should be maintained in a task-ready condition ...capable of delivering a lot of power in a sudden burst - even after months of disuse.

The most important considerations when choosing an AC to DC battery charger is power-rating, and whether it will be used indoors or outside.

Victron battery chargers are available with bulk-charge rates of between 5A and 30A. Some models are for indoor use; others are safe even if accidentally submerged in up to a metre of water.

They feature a seven-step charge algorithm which includes an optional 'reconditioning' phase. Occasional use of this feature will extend the life of the battery, and restore lost capacity.

The navigational electronics found on the bridge of a Large yacht will be networked with data senders from around the vessel.

In addition to global satellite communication and tracking systems; weather information - from a number of sources ...and maritime safety information; intelligent data is be produced by networking with radar; fuel/water tank senders; engine room environmental sensors; accommodation environment monitors, and controls for temperature and air conditioning.

The provision of 'domestic' electricity 230V/120V on board, from an inverter, allows for the use of workshop tools; coffee-maker; hairdryer; a computer; a vacuum cleaner or pressure washer.

All of the luxury and convenience available at home can be enjoyed on board.

The Victron Color Control GX is an information gateway which shows you, at-a-glance, the battery state of charge; how much power is being consumed; and how much is being generated.

It provides access to the settings of the entire electrical system. Alarms can be programmed to warn of low-power, or high-demand; automatic switches - triggered by a range of parameters - can control power supply, start generators, 'dump' excess solar power into water heaters - or to switch on lighting, coincident with local nightfall.

Connecting the Color Control to the internet provides all that functionality from anywhere in the world!  

When in port, shore power will be available for all normal services.

Marina current-limit trips prohibit the use of some high-demand appliances - or devices which draw a lot of current on start-up ...although the PowerAssist feature of Victron inverters will avoid this.

Three-phase electricity will not normally be available from a leisure-craft shore-berth - but again, Victron inverters can be combined to provide this.

Electricity Grid Networks are less reliable in some countries and may interfere with the smooth-running of computer-controlled devices. Victron Inverters have no break-functionality - and therefore provide uninterrupted power supply.

Whenever a large yacht is in port, shore power will be available for all normal services.

It's worth remembering that Marina current-limits trips may prohibit the use of some high-demand appliances, or devices which draw a lot of current on start-up. Check that your inverter can operate on these lower current limits.

Three-phase electricity will not normally be available from a leisure-craft shore-berth. But can be provided by combining Inverters.

Electricity Grid Networks are less reliable in some countries which may interfere with the smooth-running of computer-controlled devices. Victron Inverters have no break functionality - providing uninterrupted power supply.

Whilst battery-charging, the battery combiner automatically connects the engine battery to the service battery so that you don't have to.

And when battery-charging is finished, it automatically disconnects the engine battery - so that you don't have to remember to do that, either.

This ensures that the engine battery is always included in a charge cycle, and kept ready for action. And also that it is never accidentally drained by the vessel's 'domestic' devices.  

The Battery combiner features a manual override, too, so that the engine can be started using the service battery bank - if ever that need arises.

Whilst battery-charging, the battery combiner automatically connects the engine battery to the service battery so that you don't have to.

And when battery-charging is finished, it automatically disconnects the engine battery - so that you don't have to remember to do that, either.

This ensures that the engine battery is always included in a charge cycle, and kept ready for action. And also that it is never accidentally drained by the vessel's 'domestic' devices.  

The Battery combiner features a manual override, too, so that the engine can be started using the service battery bank - if ever that need arises.

Whilst battery-charging, the battery combiner automatically connects the engine battery to the service battery so that you don't have to.

And when battery-charging is finished, it automatically disconnects the engine battery - so that you don't have to remember to do that, either.

This ensures that the engine battery is always included in a charge cycle, and kept ready for action. And also that it is never accidentally drained by the vessel's 'domestic' devices.  

The Battery combiner features a manual override, too, so that the engine can be started using the service battery bank - if ever that need arises.

With plenty of electricity provided by the alternator Motor Cruisers will often be equipped with an extensive array of electronic devices.

The navigation desk will include: all-band Radio; Satellite comms and Navigation; Chart Plotter; Navtex; Radar; and Maritime traffic identification systems; together with 12/24V outlets for plug-in devices.

Domestic circuits will provide: Fridge/Freezer; AirConditioning; blowers; and pumps.

And there will be provision on deck for lighting; Anchor windlass; and a bow thruster.

Yachts moored in a Marina - or even sometimes berthed alongside a quay - will generally have access to metered shore power, which will often prove reliable, if expensive.

Shore power can be used to charge boat batteries using a battery charger.

In circumstances where AC power is desired on board whilst sailing offshore, an inverter/charger opens up a world of possibilities. ...And it acts as a battery charger when connected to shore power.