Clean, Silent Power from Your Boat's Motion
Powers your navigation lights, instruments, and charges your phone whilst coastal cruising
Runs your autopilot, refrigeration, and keeps batteries topped up on passage
Maximum continuous output - generates more energy than you can use in most situations
| Sailing Conditions | Best Propeller | Typical Power Output | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coastal cruising 4-7 knots |
320mm Low Speed | 145-380 watts | Larger propeller extracts maximum energy at comfortable cruising speeds |
| Light wind sailing 3-6 knots |
320mm Low Speed | 75-255 watts | Still produces useful power when boat speed drops |
| Brisk passages 7-9 knots |
260mm High Speed | 260-380 watts | Smaller propeller creates less drag whilst maintaining full power output |
| Fast sailing 9-11 knots |
260mm High Speed | 380 watts (maximum) | Minimises drag penalty - your boat stays fast whilst batteries charge |
Value of electricity generated plus reduced engine running (based on 1,000 hours sailing per year at 6 knots average)
System pays for itself through electricity savings and extended battery life
DIY from plans, assemble from kit, or order factory-made units
| Scenario | Duration | Average Speed | Energy Generated | What This Powers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day sail Light winds |
8 hours | 5 knots | 1.2 kWh | Navigation instruments, autopilot, phone charging, cabin lights |
| Coastal passage Moderate conditions |
24 hours | 6 knots | 6.1 kWh | All electronics, refrigeration, plus battery top-up for next day |
| Ocean crossing Steady trade winds |
7 days | 7 knots | 63.8 kWh | Complete energy independence - no engine running required |
| Fast sailing Strong winds |
12 hours | 9 knots | 4.6 kWh | Maximum output maintained whilst minimising drag |
| Feature | Our Design | Watt & Sea | Duogen |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power Output | 380W | 300W | 400W |
| Propeller Options | ✓ Two sizes included | Optional extra | ✓ Multiple options |
| Operating Range | 4-11 knots | 5-10 knots | 5-12 knots |
| Propeller Change Time | 10 minutes | 15 minutes | 20 minutes |
| Material Options | Glass-filled nylon composite | Composite | Bronze |
| Build Options | ✓ DIY plans ✓ Kit form ✓ Made to order |
Factory made only | Factory made only |
| Approximate Cost | $1,050-2,350 (DIY: $1,050) (Kit: $1,500) (Made to order: $2,350) |
$4,400-5,650 | $5,000-6,900 |
| Expected Lifespan | 10+ years (glass-filled nylon composite) |
8-12 years | 15-20 years |