Solar installation on a Lagoon Catamaran, Ep 17, Sailing to Mexico soon, Off the Starboard Hull

[@m.lugert9597]

I like your mechanical installation! Reusing the existing fixation points on the roof and having the compression struds to the deck makes it very solid, simple and non-obstructive. I will adapt a similar solution for our Lagoon 39. The best this is, that your soltion requires a minimum welding job which can be done in the parts off the boat.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Just to add, I did slope the panels by 1" to allow for rain to fall off the back, I did rivet the fittings to make sure that the panels did not blow off when a wind load makes lift, I built homes in the Bahamas and hurricane clips are a standard practice, loads are not all down, the 2 systems are fused, #10 wire, i did seal the joints between the panels for water, I did not mechanically connect the panels to each other, I clean the panels twice a week. Finally most people don't notice the panels. Cheers Scott

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Further: On a rainy day I will not use the high draw appliances, i.e.. washing machine, toaster, bread maker, hair dryer. We do run 2 freezers, 2 fridge, all electronics, auto pilot and still have 99% battery charge going into the night. I do not get any charge on a full moon. LOL I also would like to acknowledge that all my load testing has been done in the Northern Hemisphere in late spring and early summer so the days were long and the nights quite short, so stay tuned my battery storage may be taxed much longer the further south we go. Scott

[@kenkaz3376]

@@offthestarboardhull8913 good stuff Scott. Now that's what I'm talking about !! - DIY wrench heaven! 👌🇨🇦 I'm issuing you the honorary gold star..lol ⭐

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

We appreciate the honour, thanks!

[@LTV_Crusader]

Off The Starboard Hull Great video and very nice approach DIY because I have seen some spend 10 to 12 grand on custom frames and solar equipment. I want to do something similar but only two panels and using 1 1/4 tubes for the frame. Not many people sell hardware for 1 1/4 stainless tubes. Are your compression post 1 in or 1 1/4. My existing back rails are 1 1/4 and I would like to match that all around. Any suggestions on a USA supplier for this stainless hardware? Thanks for keeping my dream alive as I followed thru and bought a Leopard 45. Cheers

[@annetteboender8485]

@@LTV_Crusader Did you ever find a source?

[@highvibe4839]

Hello there, I wasn't expecting a reply, but how nice to receive two, Laurie you sound like a very busy lady at the moment, glad to hear your taking those courses, it's great to have that knowledge when your sailing, especially when you plan such a long journey. I've watched most of your videos & it was so nice to see Victoria, I have a life long friend who lives on the island, & I lived with her & family several years ago & worked in a grocery store when I was in my twenties, so I was happy to be back there in a sense! My husband is a yachty & I am now only a fair weather sailorette, I admire anyone who is brave enough to do what your doing, Take it easy, don't burn the midnight oil before departure, & nice to talk to you both. Cheers Kristen.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hi again, Kristen We are both back on the boat and after 2 morning appointments, we are having a relaxing afternoon before hosting a couple for dinner. Glad to hear that you enjoyed Victoria, BC. I was in Sydney, Australia for the 2000 Olympics and was awed with the general athleticism of the country. Just say that I was not the only one up running at 5:30 am. The paths were crowded! We hope to explore your country in 3-4 years time. If you are still following our journey then, maybe we can meet? Take care, Laurie and Scott

[@dragonblee1]

Very enjoyable, now I know thank you.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Thanks, Geoffrey

[@m.lugert9597]

I have the following questions: Could you give indication of measures for the metal profiles and compression tubes you used? Have you (considered) isolating the PV panels mounted on the (steel? ) profiles to prevent corrosion between the aluminium framing of the panels and the mechanical support?

[@Sammy-bl9jf]

Perfect!!! Thanks for you the amazing video!!!

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Samir; You are very welcome Scott and Laurie

[@jonathonarnold102]

Great video, thanks for sharing.

[@johnfkeating]

Great video!!!!! Thanks so much for making it!!! John

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hey John; Your very welcome, just for your info the system is working great and its the envy of the cruising community. I did an upgrade on the batteries in San Diego but not the Lithium. I installed 4 LifeLine 6 volt 400Ah AGM's, not and sweet as the Lithium but doing a great job none the less at 80% less $ Cheers Scott

[@johnfkeating]

I'm so glad. I'm 10 years away from following you and your wife's path. So glad for the info from you guys and others!!! I'm catching up on all your episodes. They are great. John

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hope you can follow your dream. We are glad to be able to help you with info to make it happen. Cheers, Laurie

[@venomguysydney]

Great overview, one of the best solar panel installs that I have seen, ….even the factory done installs.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

SCDA The factory has to worry about making the install pretty, I have to make it work. By having a monster solar array I see the beauty inside. Cheers Scott

[@GregFredrickson]

Very nicely done! Thanks for sharing. This ?makes up 100% of your power needs.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Thanks, Greg. Yes, we have found that the solar covers all our needs. I could if I chose to heat the hot water as well, doing so draws down the batteries so I limit that large load.We do not run A/C when we are on the hook.

[@frankoconnor7309]

I agree the addition cover is a great bonus. I would add did yo consider making a hard connection from the hard cover of the boat to the solar panels rig thus no water spray would make it between them. Just a thought. great job really neat build, wish I had a workshop like yours. Cheers

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

We have considered some kind of connection between them but since we are in an area with little rainfall, it is not a priority at this time

[@jafsgbagsf3727]

Hi Scott Just to let you know your solar fixing method has reproduced on our Lagoon450S so i guess this makes you a grandpa. We used 80x40x4mm aluminium and the rack is solid as a rock. Yes a little bit of a mission fitting it in a marina (had a few Frenchmen shaking their heads), and the ting tang plink plonk splash sound came a few times as tools made their way to the seabed (ran the local shop out of allen key sets - anyone interested in sets of allen keys minus the 6mm? Ha ha). Once again thanks and love the channel. Julian and Deb, Quokka2.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

The original solar set up was designed by a 450 owner Tesla engineer named Rolf. It has survived 2 hurricanes in the Bahamas. Glad to hear that it has worked for you. Ours survived a bump from the high davots of another boat with only a minor dent. Cheers

[@Camp_Runamuck]

Multiple controllers is a great ideal because your going to have a panel shaded from time to time ..well done

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Thanks, the system does work very well. Cheers Scott

[@n3glv]

Hi, ebike person here and former resident of a grid tied 3kw house system. I saw some about #10 wire but it was not clear to me if you 'home run' each panel to its respective charge controller or have the two and three pv banks in parallel and then run just two lines to the two controllers. Great install and nice attention to detail, I can tell you're an electrician! Cheers.

[@kenelliott7040]

Nice job! I have just 2 panels over the bimini of my monohull. Envy. BTW, I used the same fittings as you did on your aft supports and the wind tore them off despite cranked tight set screws. I have since replaced and thru bolted all fittings. Get cobalt drills - worth a little extra expense, remove the set screws and bolt using aircraft nuts (with the nylon insert). Still holding. Fair winds to you on your travels.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hey Ken. If you look closely you can see the fittings are secured with rivets on 2 sides for the reason you mentioned. So I have the set screw and 2 rivets. The lift loads are way more troublesome than the direct loads. I also lift my 20hp motor from the solar frame. Cheers Scott

[@jimmcdonald9244]

Scott I love your attitude! What a brilliant boat you have. See you when you get to Aus....

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Looking forward to meeting up

[@normandgoulet8608]

Great vid.. really appreciated a look into a well designed system. Thanks

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Thanks, Normand

[@1BADGT500]

Excellent!

[@DonHarden]

Thank you for sharing. Very nice

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Thanks Don; Scott

[@fritzsproul6702]

Well done, answers heaps of questions people have while researching how to do it to their boat. I am swappin! g out diesel for electric motors next, Like the guy who owns the lagoon 410. No more diesel, smell, sound or propane needed once done.... except for what the genset uses... Good vid Cheers

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

An ambitious refit for sure, good luck with that. Scott

[@LetsTalkShop]

Thank you for debunking the solar naysayers who tend to query "what are you going to do on a cloudy day?" I love to hear that you charge in the rain too. That makes me smile and confidently hopeful for a day when I rely on solar weather it be for my home or my boat.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

LTS To be clear one must not be too piggy with the power on a rainy day. Save your piggieness for a sunny day. Cheers Scott

[@sgrsgrsgrsgrsgr]

"A boat is a floating compromise", so are the systems aboard. You have pros and cons for everything. In my ppo, the greatest advantage of solar is that there are no moving parts, therefore less maintenance and risk of breakage. Secondly, on a boat, redundancy is a must.

[@tedboender]

are the compression post 1 inch or 1 1/4 inch? I can't find the fitting that attaches the compression post to the existing stainless rail. CHeers Scott! Wish you were still making videos.

[@frankoconnor7309]

I love your workshop too

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Thanks, Frank

[@FabioBonfiglio]

beautiful installation!

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Thanks, Fabio

[@shibumi5210]

The channel you show at about 7:30, have you considered some kind of elastomeric material as an end plug to prevent possible noggin lacerations, and keep water out?

[@shibumi5210]

Would a WattandSea generator be a good idea for backup on cloudy days sailing, or going through a storm system? I assume you have a generator onboard, but would save diesel and is free power other than purchase, at a low cost in drag...

[@shibumi5210]

My compliments on your installation- I am pretty handy and have done woodworking as a lifetime hobby, and I appreciate and subscribe to the school of over-engineering a project on general principles...

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Have not considered this, Shibumi.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

The Watt and Sea generator is too noisy for us and the solar panels give us more than enough power even on cloudy days.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Thanks for your thoughtful comments - sorry we took so long to get back to you.

[@teddybear8353]

Hey Scotty Thanks for the info. Really appreciate the rundown. You make a Good vlog

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Thanks, Teddy Bear

[@geoff8751]

Brilliant Scott, great vid, informative!! Following your travels ahead, have a beer waiting for here in New Zealand when you arrive!!

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Geoff I will have that beer; looking forward to it. Scott and Laurie

[@albertasailor8452]

A really nice solar setup. I read a commentary on solar vs generators which suggested that although solar is more expensive initially, There is no fuel or upkeep, so the cost and pain in the butt part sort of stops there. I am likely to put two light plexiglass sheet and aluminum tube backed semi-flexible 100 or 150 watt panels on my boat. The rigid ones are much cheaper and easier to mount of course, but the 15 to 20 lb. per panel vs 5 or 6 lb each for the flexible would be a lot to expect my mast cradle and two more legs to support. Also, much easier to hang and takedown for trailering between lakes. Again, a really nice setup.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Thanks Alberta My original dream boat was a trailerable, Hake 32. I was going to haul it around the Americas, then the lure of the South Pacific started. Cheers Scott and Laurie

[@dennismartindale691]

Thanks Scott. You mentioned you have dimensioned drawings for the solar structure, can you share them with me as I have a 2013 Lagoon 400S2 as well. Cheers.

[@lonelybay6694]

we would also be very interested in those! thanks

[@geraldthomas9253]

I recently watched someone else do a test on this to discover if solar panels worked better in series or parallel.What I found interesting is that the capacitors weren't working as advertised so shading any section of a panel pretty much completely eliminated it from the cycle. Because of this they wired their panels up in parallel to eliminate the issue. Interestingly they still went with the 750 watt panels which I thought was silly because the smaller panels in parallel produced more watts with any cell blocked than the larger panels did in similar conditions. (boom or mainsail shading) Either way, because of this I believe I favor your system with the smaller panels in parallel. Even the idea of redundant controllers is nice. Every system on a boat should have redundancies.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

I think you are referring to the Wynns solar test, the couple that moved from the motorhome? I saw that and tried to replicate the same on my boat, could not do it. I have monitored my panels for 6 months now and I have never seen a total collapse of the charge as indicated by their test. One thought is that because I am so far aft I do not get the shading, that said I have never not had full batteries by 10:00AM so do I care? Nope! I charge even in the rain, Cheers Scott and Laurie

[@sailingvesselsouthernlady447]

I also enjoy the shade at the helm from our solar panels.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

A great added bonus

[@haroldcooper9867]

Great Job

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Thanks, Harold

[@markharrison674]

Excellent set a great example of simplicity working perfectly with function. I think I will copy when I get my leopard . Only change I think will be the powder coating of the aluminum using arms 2605 spec due to the salt water Great video hitting subscribe

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hi Mark, congrats on your Leopard - soon your lifestyle will change for the better. Glad you found the video useful. Our solar set up has been a success for us.

[@DeanF]

Just subbed, thanks! Fair winds and following seas brother!

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Dean F , cheers. Scott here, Glad you joined the group. Lots of changes going on aboard MUSKOKA Laurie is gone, computers are broken so no videos, My real time location is Fiji and if you check out FB Scott Doran is the name. Getting an Apple product fixed in Fiji is not happening. Oh well the ship moves on regardless. Cheers

[@legeantdavid1937]

Nice video, I have a loggon 450

[@ek9772]

It is a great installation. Did you consider a slight gap between the solar panels to reduce a lift effect during strong gales?

[@ngpatimagedk]

Just one question, but before I want to say thanks this will save me a lot of thinking! We have just started outfitting our boat for live aboard and I had almost reached the conclusion that the panels would be better where yours are instead of on top of the davits. But I still had to figure out exactly how. Now it's basically cut and paste! So my question is at what angle can you no longer see the stern light? Wondering if you would be in the dark to really tall tanker half a mile off.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Oh the stern light, Boats that are at ocean level seem to have a clear view, as for a larger vessel with a bridge up off the ocean ---- not sure. I think that any commercial boat will have me on A.I.S. long before lights. There is another problem and that is the reflection from the factory stern light at night is borderline blinding. The best solution would be a relocate to the aft of the panels. Cheers Scott and Laurie

[@9mmjames653]

Be great if everyone you get working on a boat would do such a great job. Looks better then most. thumbs up

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Glad you liked our boat work.

[@krafthaus8378]

Very nice tidy job Scott. I like the mounting. Where did you get your tubing & hardware/fittings to attach to the existing tubing? Can I buy online? I think I could make use of that for some projects on our Lagoon 420. We have 2 panels & they mostly keep up with all our needs including water maker on sunny days in the Caribbean. But I think I'd like to add some more like you. Solar is fantastic! Thanks for the video.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hi Mark All the hardware is stock stuff from the Chandler, nothing exotic. Solar is the best! Cheers Scott

[@iamsomebody7700]

A year later, anything you wish you had done differently? Thanks for the informative video!

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

I am somebody Hi, Thanks for watching, As we sit here in a beautiful anchorage in the Sea of Cortez I would have to say we got it right. Our boat is comfortable, reliable and easy to handle. I would not want anything larger or smaller. We talked a few days ago about this exact topic and we both agree we would not change anything. Thanks for taking the time and enjoy. Cheers

[@ek9772]

You mentioned that some days you have too much energy. You probably have thought about this, but if your water heater is setup for two heating element, you could get yourself a DC heating element of between 150 to 600 watts, and you could use this as a dump load for heating water with your solar panels. I have no ideas what kind of controller you have, but check to see if it is an MPPT ‘controller.’ There are several videos on KZbin of how and what to measure to determine this. If it is not a true MPPT, then installing one will boost your harvested energy by around 30%. You made a very nice, professional looking installation, and it looks like it will provide many years of useful service.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Thanks, Eric, we will check it out! What a great idea!

[@auspicious113]

Doubles up as shade very clever

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Yes, the solar panels extend our sun and rain protection. It is a real bonus for us! Cheers, Laurie and Scott

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Not sure how clever it is but it does block the sun. Cheers

[@paulnewton6407]

Love the videos Scott and love the way you have set up the boat. When your ready to sell it......let me know.. Paul

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Paul It will be a while before we sell the boat. It is perfect for us in every way. We may even use it as our house on the dock in Victoria BC when we get back from our circumnavigation. Cheers.

[@lifreu]

You can always use the solar panels to catch rainwater if you install a small gutter at the bottom

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hi lifreu Yes, this could be a source of water if our water maker fails

[@ChrisMcEvoy]

great video as usual :)

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Thanks Chris, trying to keep it real! Actually I am bored waiting to set sail in 2 weeks, what do ya do when your floating around waiting? Make a vid. Cheers, Scott and Laurie

[@ChrisMcEvoy]

+Off The Starboard Hull I can't wait for your adventures to start :) ..... Hope you make a few more videos of you guys preparing to leave :)

[@gerardswanson8217]

good luck with youre travels from frozen ottawa

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Thanks, Gerard. Hope it warms up soon for you.

[@roycox3701]

Cool, thanks

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Your Welcome. Scott

[@DesertVid2]

3 years later, anything you have/would change on this install? Looks like an awesome way to go.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hi Dan, Yup, 3 years in. Currently in Fiji and the SOLAR is still cranking out the amps. No corrosion and everything is good. Thanks for the kind words, Cheers

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hi Dan, Yup, 3 years in. Currently in Fiji and the SOLAR is still cranking out the amps. No corrosion and everything is good. Thanks for the kind words, Cheers

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hi Dan, Yup, 3 years in. Currently in Fiji and the SOLAR is still cranking out the amps. No corrosion and everything is good. Thanks for the kind words, Cheers

[@ysesq]

why not mount a wind genny on the back as well. the panels seem to create a nice channel for air to blow through them and it would help with the rainy days.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

ysesq; I have not heard a wind genny that I could not hear. I can make enough power on a marginal day. I can't run the washing machine on days like that but it covers the essentials Cheers Scott

[@mikelavigne6173]

@@offthestarboardhull8913 i have watched most all of your videos and give 2 thumbs up . With that said I am one of the ones who prefer the tech talk and how to diy aspect of boats , I am wondering about maximizing a boat similar to yours with solar with hopes of being able to power a/c in the days of heated climates . Could you give any advice on BTU's and consumption for a vessel similar in size as yours , also if it is possible to add a row of panels behind your existing ones above the dinghy . Thanks and safe travels Mike

[@Expendible1971]

An impressive installation, well thought out, well executed, and to have the redundancy is well worth the extra expense. One question regarding forward 3x1 aluminum tube, I could be wrong, but it looks as if you enter the cockpit right where the ends of that tube is, and if for some reason you do not have hold on the handle you installed, is there a chance of hitting your head on the sharp corner?

[@Swizzenator]

Well alcohol and late nights makes wankers out of all of us. Cheers to us wankers.

[@Expendible1971]

...and your point being?

[@Swizzenator]

If the wanker fits. . .wear it.

[@Expendible1971]

I guess we speak different languages.

[@kenkaz3376]

Hello Scott.....re watched your sexy solar array. Pretty cool. I'm wondering though now that you're a shell back across the equator and run through squalls and whatever else. Were you ever worried about the airfoil you created with the panels? Were you ever in a situation where you and Laurie thought you might to disassemble and store for fear of losing them. Also what is your battery bank size? I have 460 watts and 525 ah battery bank. I'm usually back to float charge by 10 or 11am. I know it depends on stuff but a good bench mark I think. I usually use 225-250 underway and 120-140 at anchor. Anyway great install. Thanks, Capt Kaz

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hi Ken Kaz. The solar panels are very secure. The guy who designed them for his Lagoon 450 (he is an engineer for Tesla) in the Bahamas has survived 2 hurricanes with his boat and ours are beefier than his. Our battery bank is 1500W and 1100 ah, added from 800 ah in Opua. Cheers

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hi Ken, Scott here. We have 1,500watts of solar and 1,100Ah of battery. Degradation on the batteries will have to be taken into account. When we left Canada I had 800 Ah of batteries and while on the big crossing from Mexico to Hiva Oa the draw thru the night was exceeding the bank. While in New Zealand I added 300 Ah to my bank and we hope it will get us thru the night with everything running. Some of our problem was shading from The sails from Sailing due west, as the the sun went down in the west we had complete shading on the panels. During our short 2 day crossing of the ITCZ we were sailing south and the solar was not shaded and worked much better but still it was just a tad bit short of power by morning. I would run my trusty Honda 2000 generator for an hour at about midnight and then all was well. I added 2 150Ah AGM’s to my existing 800Ah system and yes the batteries added were new. Adding new batteries to an older system is not always the best thing to do but I checked out the 2 year old Lifeline batteries and they were in very good shape so I just thru caution to the wind and it has all worked OK. Cheers

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

One more thing, the electrical system on every boat is different from the next. Balance of the electrical system is the key to happiness, all the planning in the world will get you close but living and testing over time is,the only way to fine tune . Adjustments can be made in many forms from adding more to conservation it is all in how you choose to go about it.

[@kenkaz3376]

@@offthestarboardhull8913 lol.......ok that settles it. More ham sandwiches and flashlights. Thanks for the feedback. Underway calculations for me are really autopilot, chart plotter , radio and frig and spinning up the radar every so often. That's roughly 13-15 per hour if the auto pilot's not working too hard. That's 312-360 per day while under sail. Of course when we can see during daylight when we're out and about, we can choose to hand steer or turn some things off depending. Even though, there's no way I can sail for days on end without a bump charge. I also carry an H2000. Great thing to have. Thankfully I only exercise it every now and then. After several days out we'd have to borrow Laurie's paddle board....lol. anyway, good stuff. Thanks, Ken

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

The balance of the system is something that has to be figured out while out at sea, where you are on the globe makes a difference, sun and shade, intensity of UV of the area, actual power needs ( all of my calculations were not even close) , additional devices added along the way, All the things pile up and for my money only made sense once we were in full swing out on the open ocean. The first almost 2 years were not a good test for what would happen when you head west from the continent. We were close to being all well but for me close is not good enough. Cruising around the US and Mexico is totally different than the cruising equatorially. Few shade days, frequent motoring, short stays on anchor, it’s just different in the South Pacific. In Mexico I heated water off the inverter, so much sun and much later into the day so it was not a big deal. Sometimes while having the heater element on I was still seeing amps go into the batteries. Not here, I would not even think of wasting power on hot water, we now use the engine. Fine tuning along the way is always going to be a part of the fun. Cheers

[@americandad1301]

Great video! Any updates or revisions to the system since being aboard awhile? I'm planning my build for a L450F based on your kit. I might be able to squeeze (5) 300w panels. Your opinion on an engine drive water maker? I'll have my wife and 5 kids aboard and need higher output than 12v will do (timely) and I want to avoid a diesel genset/120v high pressure pump. Echotec 53-60gal/hour engine driven system would only need to be run an hour a day (avg.). Other option I'm thinking is 120v small enough to run on a portable genny, Honda2000i, but output limited to 30gal/hr. I could stretch to 40gal/hr. with the use of a hybrid inverter drawing power from the Honda2000 and the solar/house bank. Your opinion would be greatly appreciated and I'll look for that Patron/donation link ;) Fair weather to you both!!!

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hi American Dad The man that designed the prototype of the solar panels has a Lagoon 450 and has been able to fit 6 panels. Our system has been flawless so far, almost 11 months into our trip. An engine drive water maker would be hard to do and the Spectra water maker is very efficient. We have a Honda 2000 generator as well, but feel that the systems that operate on this small generator would not be robust enough to supply us with the water that we need. We are not wanting to go the Patreon link - too much pressure to get those videos out when wifi is not easy to find. Thanks for your thoughtful questions and let us know the route you decide to go and how it all works out. Cheers, Laurie and Scott

[@MarkLawrenceKiefer]

I haven't seen it, so I wanted to ask, do you have a wind generator also? (to help with the foul weather and night time loads)

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

No wind generator - the solar produces enough power even on cloudy days and night time. Also, we do not like the noise of the wind generator, however quiet.

[@IandiBoats]

Cool video. Can you run your air conditioner with your new solar installation? I guess first I should ask do you have 120 or 24 volt air conditioning on your boat?

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

A/C; I am still researching A/C. Not sure how we will handle the heat, I will keep you posted. Cheers Scott and Laurie

[@igorgoga7985]

For living on a cat like this all year around BC, does one need special insulation and some kind of heating system? Thank you!

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Igor You will need a heating system (we have a hydronic one) and/or space heaters if near Vancouver Island

[@theislandpackrat]

Your solar panels would cover my whole boat, lots of shade. but might over charge my battery. That bracket you had made was that polished or chromed ?

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

The pipe is all polished, It is quite the array, I was told to make the solar panels as big as possible, if the solar interferes with the sailing of the boat then you should rethink its size. I do not know its there while under sail, all good! Cheers Scott and Laurie

[@ChristopherYoung5977]

It's not possible to overcharge the batteries. That's the whole point of the solar controller.

[@jmcelwee76]

Hi Scott, great video, thanks for the details! I'm curious whether you find that the 1600Ah and 5x256W panels are overkill on your boat? We've just purchased a 38' Seawind 1160 and I am planning our power system, and your video and boat are making me re-think my plan to accommodate a larger system (I'd originally planned to do ~800Ah and 4x140W kyocera's). The 256's don't look quite as big in your video as I thought they might be, so I may go with 4 of those instead. We're planning for some longer-term live-aboard cruising, so don't want to regret being underpowered at that point....

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

We are 800AH at 12 V and I wouldn't change a thing - everything works Scott

[@christoffer1973]

don't you need on the frame conect the long aluminium beam to each other in both ends? I'm thinking about when the boat "twist".. like you have it the solar panels take also load of the twisting and stretch. do the solar panels handle that? you have 2 long beam on each side but nothing to connect to each other eksept the solar panels. sorry my bad English writing. like your videos.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hi christoffer1973 You are right, the solar panels are the only resistance to twist. However, there are 5 very sturdy panels and the system seems very secure with torsion stresses. Our friend who designed the prototype survived a hurricane with no problems with this system. Thanks for your comments

[@thetaberfamily]

Have you ever considered a wind turbine for your boat as well, been I interested to know if you have any experience with these?

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Sorry, Mark, we have no experience with the wind turbine. It is a bit too noisy and the solar meets all our energy requirements.

[@allenfar721]

Scott, super and informative video. I am curious about the batteries that you utilize to support your daily electrical requirements. Also do you have any thoughts on Lithium batteries? Thanks again for the video's

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Allen, I actually had ( yes had) on order the Big Mastervolt Lithium. That said I had to wait for 2 months for them to come from Germany. During that time I was out with the stock Lead Acid ( 540Ah) and everything was working thru the night. The excessive cost for the upgrade seemed pointless. I did a 700 mile open ocean shakedown cruise with Laurie and we had no problem running the ship thru the night, so I cancelled my order. That said I recognize that my testing was done in the northern hemisphere in the summer so the days were long and the nights short. I may need more Ah but I still have my $25,000.00 in my pocket, enough to buy a few more lead acid. Cheer Scott

[@tazmun]

your propane tank installation scared the heck out of me... it seems that anything hanging by the back davits where your Dinghy is takes a pounding... I think the weight of a propane bottle right there is just going to tear that up

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hey Tazmun No need to worry, the tank has 3 different lines albiet the same colour holding that little gem onto the rear rail. If one fails I have 2 to take over. The tank is 14 lbs when full and makes no contact with the Stainless, I have rubber insulators that protect the dissimilar metals. To add in a real shit storm on a 400S2 the rear of the boat is quite benign, all quite and clam even in a raging blow from the aft. Cheers Scott and Laurie

[@shepman7872]

Hi Scott, Love your videos/life! My wife and I are planning to follow your path when our son graduates from high school in 4 years. Right now we are thinking of a 440 or 450 with the upper deck bridge. In the meantime I am going to install a solar system on our house that will replicate the system you installed. This will give me power if and when we can't get if from the local power company. I will also be able to demount and install on our not yer purchased boat plus gain 4 years of knowledge on running and maintaining the system. Can you tell me what the brand / model of the inverters you are using? I have done some research already but respect your knowledge as an electrician. Keep up with your technical posts, it provides much needed real working experience I could not get otherwise. Cheers from the Bay Ares Ca.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hi shep man Sounds like your solar knowledge will be extensive before you leave in 4 years. A house uses much more power than a 440 or 450 will ever use, so the solar will just be supplemental for a house. We are using 2 Mastervolt inverters, model # MPPT solar chargemaster 60. This system is pricey but it works! Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. Maybe we will see you in 4 years. Living the dream is all we had hoped! Cheers, Laurie and Scott

[@shepman7872]

Thanks for the info Scott! I'm planning on using it to power a freezer and a small fridge. Mainly I want to have it in case of an emergency if TSHTF. I lean prepper and this system is redundancy for me while I'm on land. Looking forward to following your journey. Merry Christmas to you and Laurie. Fair winds.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hope you had a good Christmas and all the best in 2017!

[@graywolf2107]

Are panels that fold and be stowed away in development?

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

No, sorry Gray Wolf, we do not know of any solar panels that fold and can be stowed away.

[@airtime89410]

Nice install! Can you provide a parts list. I’m looking to do something similar for a lagoon 440 and I’m preparing a budget.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Yes we can. If you send a private message to us with your email address, we can send it to you.

[@tonyoo6302]

Thank you...

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

No problemo

[@tigersharkzh]

It might be a good idea to put some rubber protection on the edges of those alu profiles. they're about head hight and will leave a big dent in any head that hits them. Too much solar for a sunny day? lol, that's when you can make nice fresh water on solar power to shower and cool down. Love your set up. Best I've seen on a cat since solarwave.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

I know the video makes the solar look as if you could hit your head; the reality is that you would have to be really trying to hit your head to get it over there. I have sailed with this setup for 6 months and in some shit weather and never came close. This system is quite popular and many people before me all came together to make it so refined, everyone tweaks it a bit to satisfy their needs. Thanks to those gone before I reap the benefits. Cheers Scott

[@canberrafinest]

are your sunglasses actually a vision bifocals? if yes I want a pair - greetings from Sydney

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hello Bill from Sydney! The sunglasses were purchased at a fishing store in Canada, just a generic magnifying insert. Hope they have them in Aus.

[@tidan750]

How much power can you have from this setting on A Nice Day .... About 5 kWh approx ?

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

tidan750, Great question, unfortunately no real answer. There are way to many variables to give a running total for a sun cycle. What I do know is, we never look at the solar controllers to check the input and we never have a low voltage alarm go off. Our best indication that we make more power than we consume is how electrical power is a complete non issue onboard. Most boats monitor and conserve their power all day, we are energy pigs and love it. One caveat is on a rain day we will not use the washing machine, hair dryer, microwave or water heater. During the rain day we do make enough power to maintain our refrigeration and electronics for sailing, solar is quiet and it keeps the engine hours down. Hope that helps Scott and Laurie

[@tidan750]

For some technical reason 🙄i bring my two AGM 75 A/h near of 40% .... And I have seen approx 1 kWh of production from my 235 watts solar panel. From my observation à think we can produce roughthly 4 Time of the power of A solar panel 235x4 = 960 w/h in A Sunny Day ( Summer in Quebec ) I wanted to know if we can use this thumb rule in the South ....

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

I really do not have much technical data. What I do know is practical. At 10:00 AM my batteries are at 95% and are in float, on a cloudy day make it 11:00 AM. The list of variables that effect the performance in real time are to numerous to list, that said if you have the real-estate use it, no sailor ever said they had to much solar or to big of an anchor or to beautiful a partner. I have it all. Cheers Scott Mr. Practical

[@fissh29]

just found your channel...how many batteries and house/engine battery split... what is your power usage...looking forward to seeing your S.Pacific adventures!!! thanks

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

We have 6 batteries, 4 Lifeline AGM L16, 6V, 400 aH house and 2 Lifeline AGM engine batteries. We do not know how much power we use - it is a lot. Scott

[@castaway123100]

Series or parallel?

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Series

[@RickDuganTexas]

Thanks for the video. Very helpful. Although details about the type of batteries you used in your bank and the manner in which multiple controllers charge that bank may be simple for an eclectically minded individual, your advise to use a pro is wise guidance. Impressive job.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hi Rick Great question regarding the batteries, I ordered Lithium Ion from MasterVolt while I was installing the solar, when we got the system up and running on the stock Lead Acid (540Ah) bank everything worked so well and I was able to make it thru a night with no problem I cancelled my order and left the old school batteries in.I will replace them when needed and add if required. The cost of the Lithium was $16,000.00 and I needed new alternators and lots of other stuff to complete the upgrade, I figured enough was enough. I loose the fast charge rate for sure but like I quoted at 10:00Am all is up and fully charged, with lithium it would be 9:00 am? not worth $25,000.00 The controllers are dialled for the lead acid and run a basic 3 state charge and work independently, just like the battery chargers. It all works and I had help from many along the way. Thanks Scott

[@ChristopherYoung5977]

The reason for lithium on a catamaran would be weight reduction, not battery performance.

[@svseaglobe]

👍👍

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Thanks again

[@Speedports]

Dear Scott please make a Video of your workshop please =)

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Ok, Ok , Ok. Nuff said Cheers Scott and Laurie

[@mikeferguson2828]

Ahi Scott I have spent the last few days chatting to a visiting 55ft FP that is from Fiji but cruising the Indian Ocean now for a few years. The British owner skipper fitted LiFeO4 batteries 4 years ago and has not touched them since. He dropped from 1000 amp hours to 400 and said he never runs out of power and has saved a lot of weight. Have you thought of them ?

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hi Mike - We had actually ordered lithium batteries a year ago and found that the charges to install them with added alternations and labour charges added $10,000 to their cost. We cancelled the order just before we left as we found that we could go overnight with our lead acid batteries with no energy deficits. Then, in San Diego, we found a great deal with (heavy) AGM batteries which increased our amp hours from 540 to 1600. We can now utilize much more energy from the solar panels. Thanks for continuing to follow our adventures. Laurie and Scott

[@jamesbaxter2812]

As I don't know where you get your solar panels from, Have you through about wind turbines......You can get one that will work in salt air.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hi James - We have decided against wind turbines on our boat - the solar provides more than enough energy for us. Thanks for watching, Laurie and Scott

[@darthschumy]

Great video, but I have one question: in the guest bedroom (or "the place where you throw all the crap"), are guests trapped sleeping under said crap? It would be very easy to forget they are there, even when they wake up!

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hi Darth - Good point. Guests are treated to a cleaned up guest suite with a bathroom. All the "crap" goes into the bow lockers and workshop while they are aboard. We ask for minimal luggage as the washer allows clothing to be reused. Cheers, Laurie and Scott

[@darthschumy]

@Off The Starbooard Hull: it is good to hear, that while you were filming, no guests were trapped underneath "crap". I hope most boat owners are like you, if I'm ever invited onto a vessel. Now that I think about it, catamarans have much more space to move junk around on. Perhaps for guests, there is a greater risk with mono-hulls?

[@HopeOfJoe]

Totally enjoyed and learned. Thanks. OMG ✨💕✨🎄✨⛵️⚓️🌊🌟✨

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

You sir are welcome. I’m currently sitting in the aft salon in New Zealand enjoying the sunset. Cheers Scott

[@highvibe4839]

I love your video on solar & I'm a woman - no questions from me, I'm just having fun watching you tinker & prepare for your big adventure with Loorie, you will have to get her talking a little more, maybe she will come to life when your scretching down a wave surfing your cat! Just kidding, can't wait to see her skills when the time comes! Bon Voyage, cheers from Aussie.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hey Kristen: Laurie is still a working girl ( 2 more weeks) and is very busy coaching a kids track team so I do spend most of my time alone. She will show up very soon. She will have no place to hide, well maybe the Port hull if things get contentious. I promise Laurie will show up soon, we have had many comments that share your concern. Cheers Scott and Laurie

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

+Off The Starboard Hull Hi Kristen - Laurie here. I am presently a few hours away from the boat in Victoria taking a weather course. Lots of people here with boats in Mexico - amazing! Monday, I will be taking the radio exam. The next 2 weekends, I will be at 2 different track meets coaching a few talented hurdlers. I have 6 more days of work and 3 more track practices to coach. I also need to get some last minute financial and esthetic things to clear up. Lots of appointments and so little time. I feel like I am rushing through the days with my head in a cloud. I look forward to when we can relax with thoughts of the next destination the biggest priority. Thanks for putting in some words for me. Laurie

[@GoofieNewfie69]

Questions, questions, questions, so many questions. Ok, #1 , what do you feed a 200 pound dog?

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Ha Ha Do feral pigs taste like chicken?

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

How do you know if your Sloth is happy?

[@n3glv]

What is the air speed of an unladen swallow?

[@GoofieNewfie69]

feral pigs do taste like chicken if you cook em right

[@GoofieNewfie69]

Air speed of swallow's depend on whats chasing it

[@emmanuelsamaras8974]

It would be nice if one could use earth's energy for powering the boat electrically and supplying all energy needs.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

That is a goal worth pursuing

[@Flyingdutchman586]

Good job, good video. However, it would be better if you had some kind of camera stabilization and move a bit slower as your video is hard to watch. Cheers.

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Hi Flyingdutchman596. We have worked on stabilizing in more recent videos. Hope it is better now. Thanks for your comment.

[@mikeferguson2828]

Ouch

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Yes, lithium is pricey - hopefully, it will be more affordable in the future

[@auspicious113]

i guess it also serves to collect rain water

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

You could set it up to collect water. If there were small rain gutters between the panels a collection system would have been easy, never even crossed my mind. Now that you have sparked the thought I am going to think on a temporary collection system in case the water maker craps out. Great idea. Cheers.

[@memepasmal77]

thhe video is too long...

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

I agree, not for the couch surfing demographic. Scott

[@offthestarboardhull8913]

Herizo, you only watch them, we have to produce them! Have a great day.

[@aresrandy]

Herizo Rajo I