Power generator

Power generator

The electricity on the yacht can come from at least three different sources. From a port’s power supply, a battery or a power generator. These allow the use of numerous electrical devices on the boat.

The power generator makes the boat independent of the power supply in the harbor and partially removes the limitations imposed by the relatively small capacity of the batteries. Nowadays it can be found more and more often on larger charter yachts. Depending on the specific type, the generator can supply electricity to the equipment on an ongoing basis, or charge the batteries. The most common types of generators are:

  • Internal combustion generator - diesel engine connected to the generator. Thanks to it, you can generate 220V outside the port. What is worth remembering? It is powered by diesel fuel, so during the voyage it is necessary to have an adequate reserve, although the fuel consumption of this type of equipment is relatively low. The generator has its limitations, so it is possible that a small power generator will not be able to power all the devices on the yacht at the same time. Its engine is relatively noisy.
  • Wind generator - the wind sets in motion the blades, which drive the battery charging alternator. What is worth remembering? The efficiency of such a solution is relatively low and it is used mainly to recharge the battery on an ongoing basis and not to charge it completely. Similarly to the combustion generator, the wind generator also makes noise during operation.
  • Hydro-generator - while sailing, water sets a propeller in motion, which drives the alternator producing the battery charging current. What is worth remembering? The hydro-generator only works when the yacht is sailing. It is still quite rare, it is expensive and its efficiency is low.
  • Solar panels - thanks to the photovoltaic cells on which the sun's rays fall, they produce energy to charge the batteries. Thanks to lower prices and more and more efficient panels, this solution is gaining popularity. What is worth remembering? Panels often take up a lot of space on a yacht and their effectiveness depends on weather conditions and time of day. Their operation is silent and does not require any commitment from the crew. It's quite effective, especially in areas where it's very sunny, which is why it's increasingly common on charter yachts.