Charging your phones, batteries and other electronic devices can be a hassle at sea. People who routinely head out to the open waters on their boat will be able to relate to the issues in power connectivity one faces while at sea. Regardless of whether you are just enjoying a boating session with your friends or family or are Nantucket bound, you will need some sort of power or connectivity on your boat.
While traditional sources of power fail to prove their utility, solar panels have come up as an effective and popular method to power your boats at sea today. Solar panels take care of your power needs and you set sail and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.
Buying a solar panel kit for marine use can be difficult because every boat comes with its own unique power requirements and features. The solar panels you buy should best address the needs of the people with you and should fit well within your boat. The purchase process for the best solar panels for marine use is hence extremely important as you have to ensure zero flaws and errors in it.
In this article, we mention some of the best solar panels for marine use and review these products for you. Additionally, we will also take you through the buying process and mention some features to consider during it.
Things to Consider When Buying the Best Solar Panels for Marine Use
Not every solar panel available in the market is built for the same use. There are noticeable differences in the designs and features of these panels. In this section, we will take a look at the factors you should consider to buy the best solar panel for marine use. Do not forget to run through these factors when buying a solar panel.
Solar Panel Size
The last thing you want to do is buy a solar panel that is either too big or too small for your boat. It is hence necessary that you clarify your sizing requirements beforehand and are extremely clear in this regards.
This process isn’t as difficult as it may sound, as you need to compile a list of all your power requirements on board and also identify the open spaces you have for panel installation. Based on both these estimates, you can identify the total size of the panel that can fit on your boat and the power requirements you are looking to meet with the purchase.
Mounting and Wiring
Purchasing the panel is the first step in the process, as you also have to look into mounting and wiring. Since solar panels cannot be used straight out of the box, you also have to take mounting and wiring into consideration. The panel should be easy to install.
Value for Money
Money is an important commodity, and you would want your panel to not only meet your budget, but also provide good value for money. Do not go for the cheapest option in the market. Instead, set a flexible budget and find a panel that provides good value for money within it.
1. Renogy Flexible Monocrystalline Marine Solar Panel
ASIN Number: B08YNHP1NQ
The Renogy Flexible Monocrystalline Marine Solar Panel is suited for marine use and is perfect for boats and other sea ferries. The best part about this panel is that it provides a flexible design that adjusts according to the dimensions and contour of your boat.
The panels of this device boast of excellent aerodynamics, which will assist you in the sea. The efficiency rating for this monocrystalline panel is also good, which ensures good conversion rates.
2. WindyNation Complete Off-Grid Solar Panel Boat Kit
ASIN Number: B00FAR7650
This WindyNation Complete Off-Grid Solar Panel Boat Kit is specifically made for use on boats and other ferries on the sea. This kit comes with an off-grid battery alongside the convenient adaptors, brackets and wires for installation.
The system also provides a digital display which will help you keep tabs on information pertaining to voltage. Additionally, the screen will also display the current charge status for future readings and planning.
3. Renogy Monocrystalline Expandable Boat Solar Panel Kit
ASIN Number: B06WGW485F
This Renogy Monocrystalline Expandable Boat Solar Panel Kit is by far one of the most technologically advanced kits available in the market today. The device has a good display and uses monocrystalline technology for good efficiency.
The system might look a bit underpowered at 100 watts, but is ideal for boat users who have minimal power needs. This goes to prove the range of solutions provided by Renogy.
4. DOKIO Monocrystalline Foldable Solar Panel
ASIN Number: B0748FYFSK
This DOKIO Monocrystalline Foldable Solar Panel comes with portable features as it is foldable and can be stored conveniently when not in use. This solar panel operates as a ‘use it when you like’ solar solution to be used on the go.
This DOKIO panel also provides flexible positions on the boat to attract the highest amount of sunshine. The cord handles on the panel make it easy for you to attach to almost anything.
5. Newpowa Polycrystalline PV Boat Solar Panel
ASIN Number: B0725RZ22H
The Newpowa Polycrystalline PV Boat Solar Panel comes with durable technology that is designed to last for a lifetime. The amazing construction on this solar panel will withstand the forces of weather at the sea, including rusting from salty water.
This solar panel can give you a lifetime of 25 years, baring uncalled for natural disasters at the sea. The 100W output is enough to power your marine needs.
Our Final Thoughts
The Renogy Flexible Monocrystalline Marine Solar Panel is our pick for the best solar panels for marine use. This panel comes with a durable construction, which is perfect for use at sea. You can also look for reviews on these solar panels online to make your final choice.
