Best Solar Panels for Sailboats！

As a passionate sailboat boater, you definitely understand the importance of having reliable and sustainable energy on board. Whether cruising for an afternoon or embarking on a more extended adventure, having access to power can make all the difference in your comfort and safety. 

Solar panels are one of the best ways to ensure a consistent energy source. Except for eco-friendly, they can save you money in the long run by reducing your dependence on shore power or fuel-based generators.

To make selecting the best solar panels easier for you, BougeRV listed the best boat solar panels for sailboats in the following sections and the essential benefits of solar panels.

Read on and discover now!

Are Solar Panels on Sailboats Necessary?

Types of Solar Panels for Boats

Best Solar Panels for Sailing

BougeRV Yuma CIGS Solar Panels for Sailboats

Conclusion

Are Solar Panels on Sailboats Necessary?

Though it's possible to sail without solar panels, they’re a worthwhile and necessary investment because they provide many benefits.

• Solar panels provide a reliable power source independent of shore power or fuel-based generators. This means you can stay out on the water for long periods without worrying about running out of power.

• Solar panels can also be a lifesaver in an emergency. Whenever your boat's battery dies, or your generator fails, solar panels can offer a backup power source for navigation lights, radios, and other essential equipment.

• Solar panels are eco-friendly. They don't produce any emissions or noise pollution, which is essential for preserving the beauty and tranquility of the ocean. They also reduce your carbon footprint and help to mitigate climate change.

• Solar panels can save you money in the long run. While they require an initial investment, they can pay for themselves over time by reducing your reliance on fuel-based generators and shore power.

Types of Solar Panels for Boats

 

Before we dive into the best sailboat solar panels, let's go over the types of solar panels you'll encounter. There’re three main types of solar panels: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film solar panels, including CIGS panels.

	Thin-Film Solar Panels	Monocrystalline Solar Panels	Polycrystalline Solar Panels
Materials	CIGS are typically used in marine panels	Pure silicon	Silicon crystals melted together
Pros	Creating 38% more power than conventional monocrystalline panels on a cloudy day/shady situation in 8 hours. Aesthetically fit for any surface, 360° bendable. Durable and crack-resistant, so it provides stable performance and output. More portable and lightweight, three times lighter than monocrystalline panels, watt for watt. Easy to install, no need for tools.	Highest efficiency in direct sunlight and sunny day. Smaller than poly panels.	Lower costs
Cons	Prices are a bit higher	Bulky and heavy Easily damaged Higher costs Complex installaltion. Need brackets Aesthetics is an issue. Fit for flat surfaces	Bulky and heavy Easily damaged Lower output efficiency in Shady/low-light conditions Not easy to install and needs larger areas Aesthetics is an issue

Monocrystalline panels are the most efficient in warm weather but also the most expensive. Made of single-crystal silicon, they can convert up to 22% of the received sunlight into usable energy. 

Polycrystalline panels are slightly less efficient (typically around 15-17%) and are made of multiple crystals. They're more affordable than monocrystalline panels but take up more space.

Thin-film CIGS solar panels are gaining popularity in the marine industry. Made of thin-film solar cells, they are lighter and more flexible than crystalline and monocrystalline panels. The most exciting thing is that they can provide more power in shady conditions and cloudy days.                                                 

Best Solar Panels for Sailing

The best sailboats solar panels don’t have to be powerful but must be high-efficiency in low-light, shady conditions, and cloudy days.

And excellent solar panels for sailboats also should be sturdy enough to withstand sea storms. Besides, you might also want your solar panels with excellent shading tolerance because panels often get shaded by masts and sails.

Till now, we've covered the basics. Let's look at the top boat solar panels for sailboats!

BougeRV Yuma 100W CIGS thin-film solar panels for sailboats

100W CIGS thin-film solar panels with mounting adhesive

• Size: 26*44.3*0.06 inches; 13.7*85.6*0.06 inches

• Weight: 4.3 lbs

• Solar cells efficiency: 16%

• Warranty: 18 months

• Price$: 289.99

100W CIGS thin-film solar panels with mounting holes

• Size: 27.1*44.9*0.06 inches;  14.6*86.2*0.06 inches

• Weight: 3.75 lbs

• Solar cells efficiency: 16%

• Warranty: 18 months

• Price$: 279.99; 269.99

BougeRV’s Yuma 200W CIGS thin-film solar panels sailboats

200W CIGS thin-film solar panels with mounting adhesive

• Size: 26*85.6*0.06 inches

• Weight: 7.05 lbs

• Solar cells efficiency: 16%

• Warranty: 18 months

• Price$: 579.99

200W thin-film solar panels with mounting holes

• Size:  27.1*86.2*0.06 inches

• Weight: 6.39 lbs

• Solar cells efficiency: 16% 

• Warranty: 18 months

• Price$: 529.99

Pro tips on mounting the above best solar panels for sailboats:  It’s pretty easy to install BougeRV’s solar panels on your boat in a minute with only two steps:

1. Peel off the solar panel's adhesive tapes

2. Stick the solar panels to the canvas and deck or other hard surfaces. Congratulation! You have the solar panels securely installed now!

In this process, there’s no need to use any nails, brackets, or any other tools. 

BougeRV Yuma CIGS Solar Panels for Sailboats

BougeRV's CIGS solar panels are a top choice for sailboat owners who want a lightweight, flexible panel that can withstand harsh marine environments. They're made of high-quality materials designed to provide maximum power output even in low-light conditions. The advantages of BougeRV’s Yuma CIGS solar panel for sailboats: 

• This solar panel is designed to be easy to install and use on sailboats, making it perfect for starters and experienced sailors. Featuring pre-assembled adhesive backing, you don’t need to mount brackets or drill for installation. No additional tools are required.

• High efficiency even when shaded by masts and canvas. BougeRv solar panels are designed to capture as much sunlight as possible, ensuring you will always have plenty of power. One thing that sets BougeRV's sailboat solar panel apart from the competition is its high efficiency in shady situations, creating 38% more energy than Monocrystalline panels in 8h. 

• BougeRV’s 200W CIGS solar panels can last up to 25 years. This means you can sail confidently, knowing that your solar panels will keep providing power for you no matter where you go.

• Affordability. The BougeRV’s sailboat solar panels are affordable and easy to use. You can buy one solar panel for less than $270. It's an excellent choice for anyone wanting to enjoy the benefits of solar power without breaking the bank.

• Incredibly reliable and weather-resistant. These solar panels are designed to withstand even the most challenging weather conditions, ensuring your devices will always have power. This means your solar panels will keep your boat powered up no matter what the weather throws at you.  

Suppose you are a sailor who wants to enjoy the freedom of sailing without worrying about running out of power. In that case, BougeRV's high-efficient, affordable, and reliable sailboat solar panels are perfect for your sailboat! 

Conclusion

We hope you can find the best solar panels from the above options! And we’re sure you must have an idea of choosing the best solar panels for your boat. See more details of the BougeRV’s boat solar panels here! Explore our Yuma CIGS solar panels for sailboats now!