I was wondering if anyone has ever tried using a solar panel to power their boat? I want to be able to run my boats for a long time, all day if possible . I realize that it will have to be sunny but I am a fair weather boater. If this is possible, what type of motor would I have to use? If its not feasable, what setup would get me the longest run time for my boat?

Billy Budd, Foretopman

Hi Billy,

It's doable although I don't think I ran across anyone that has actually done it yet. I don't think the concept has gone past words on this site even though the concept can be done. You would need a slower but efficient motor and the top of the boat would likely be all solar panels. It would probably look like a floating solar panel until you work out the kinks and make up a design. If you are inspired, do it!

The best road to take is the one less travelled. You will never know where your experiments will take you unless you try them. Who knows, you might pave the road for others to follow later on. That's what hobbies are all about anyway...

This site will have just about everything you need to powera solar boat except the RC transmitter/reciever. Their prices are very good so doing it shouldn't break the bank.

www.allelectronics.com/

Be creative and have fun!

-Rich.

Thanks for the reply Rich
Since I am not at all concerned with speed maybe I could make it work.  If anything a fast boat would make the experience less fun for me, just a matter of preference.  This is partly due to the size of the pond I will be doing this in.  Its only a few acres total and there is a lot of wildlife(including a beaver lodge occupied by several beavers) that I really don't want to disturb. 
Thanks for the link as well, I will check it out .

Billy

Go for it!!

-Rich.

A few issues back in Marine Modeling International they covered a competition that is held yearly in the UK for solar power duration of a model boat. Have a look at their site and see if there is any info available.

Connecting a few solar panels to a small sealed gel cell battey and efficient DC motor may result in impressive run times... Of course this setup lends itself to a boat that will just be slowly crusing around the pond.