Understanding Cruising Boat Batteries
with Gio and Julie Cappelli | Pelagic Blue Cruising Services
An online class to help aspiring cruisers gain the knowledge and skill they need to care for their boat’s batteries.
90 Minutes
English
Unlimited Access
This live online class is essential for sailors seeking a comprehensive understanding of their boat's energy storage system, focusing on batteries. Discover how to become a self-sufficient sailor by gaining insight into all aspects of a boat's power and battery systems while learning best practices for prolonging battery lifespan.
Who is this online class for?
Novices who want to learn how batteries work as part of their boat’s electrical system
Sailors who rely on batteries to start their boat engine or power devices and want to learn how to maintain them like the pros do
Cruisers who want to be proactive and self-sufficient in maintaining a healthy boat battery bank
What Will I Learn?
This class is necessary for any sailor who wants to understand the core of their boat’s energy storage system: batteries. We’ve developed this curriculum for beginners, so if you are just starting to become familiar with your boat’s batteries, you are in the right place. You will learn about the differences between AC and DC power and how your batteries play an integral role in both systems. You’ll also learn about the different types of batteries available, the principles of how they function, and their respective advantages and disadvantages on offshore cruising boats. Once you’ve got the basics down, we’ll teach you how to use your multimeter to evaluate the health of your batteries and best practices for maximizing their usable lifespan. Finally, we will discuss alternative charging sources so you know the options for keeping your batteries full and happy. So you and your boat can keep cruising comfortably even when you are far from shore power for extended periods. Whether you are heading offshore or to remote anchorages, this class on battery basics will teach you how to be a self-sufficient sailor and a competent cruiser regarding your onboard battery power.
List of Topics:
- How batteries work as part of your AC and DC system.
- Battery construction and chemistries.
- Battery ratings, cycling, and voltage platforms.
- How to know how much power you use.
- Understanding and measuring battery capacity.
- Battery bank wiring in series and parallel.
- Fuses and overcurrent protection (OCP).
- Battery chargers.
- Battery charge acceptance rates and factors that affect charging rates.
- Alternative battery charging sources.
- Why and how to monitor battery health.
- Installation considerations for maximizing the lifespan of your batteries.
- Battery best practices for your offshore or off-grid adventures.
WHY ARE YOUR BOAT BATTERIES IMPORTANT
Powering Essential Systems
Batteries are essential on a sailboat, powering navigation systems like GPS and autopilots, communication devices such as radios and satellite systems, and critical lighting for visibility and safety, including cabin, navigation, and anchor lights.
Safety
Batteries are vital for safety on a sailboat, powering emergency devices such as EPIRBs, AIS, and bilge pumps, which are crucial in critical situations. They also support weather instruments, providing real-time updates to help sailors navigate and avoid dangerous conditions.
COMFORT & CONVENIENCE
Batteries enhance comfort and convenience on a sailboat by powering essential appliances like refrigerators, freezers, and fans, ensuring a more enjoyable onboard experience. They also support phones, tablets, and other devices.
Starting Your Engine
A sailboat's auxiliary engine is often used for docking or motoring in calm conditions. Batteries are needed to start the engine.
Your Instructors
GIO AND JULIE CAPPELLI
Pelagic Blue Cruising Services, Owners
Gio and Julie Cappelli took a “seabattical” from their careers as marine biologists in 2021 and opted not to return to terrestrial life. They’ve since graduated from Skagit Valley College’s Marine Maintenance Technology program, earned ABYC and NMEA certifications, and are USCG Masters. They’ve sailed 30,000 miles through the Pacific, plus 10,000 miles as expedition staff on National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions ships in Alaska, British Columbia, and Washington. They lead sail training expeditions in their favorite places across the globe that focus on preparing students for safe and comfortable bluewater cruising on their own boats. In addition to running Pelagic Blue, they teach offshore cruising workshops and classes with John Neal of Mahina Offshore Services and the American Sailing Association (ASA). When not at sea they enjoy hiking, fishing, planning their next cruise, and helping their clients prepare to set sail.
Gio is an ABYC certified Marine Diesel Engines and Marine Systems Technician. He’s been working on cars, boats, and houses for decades and previously worked as a fish biologist and motorboat operator instructor for the Department of Interior. He loves a good mechanical or electrical challenge and is a champion spearfisherman. His life goal is to spearfish in every ocean on the planet. Brrr!
Julie used to be terrified of electricity but is now ABYC certified in Marine Electrical and a NMEA certified Electronics and Advanced NMEA2000 Installer. She’s been trying to grow a set of gills her entire life, and has worked as a marine biologist, scuba instructor, and expedition leader. She loves a good electrical or cruising logistics challenge and is an absolute genius when it comes to tracking down the gremlins hiding in your boat’s networks. Her life goal is to meet every species of whale in every ocean on the planet. There are about 94 currently recognized species and so far, she's got 18!
