Do you want to master
Marine Electrical Systems
like a PRO?
Join our Advanced Marine Electrics program!
Is your AC system safe?
Is your hardware bonded for corrosion prevention?
What about lightning protection?
Modern marine electrical systems can be overwhelmingly complex.
And even minor installation mistakes can cost you your boat.
Or even worse, affect the safety of you and your crew...
You may have heard the horror stories about sail drives corroding away in a matter of days due to stray current corrosion.
Or about the issue of electric shock drowning. Every year a number of swimmers get killed in US marinas due to badly installed AC systems on boats!
And then there is the risk of lightning strikes and the devastating damage that they can cause on an unprotected boat. A number of boats sunk as a result of a direct hit by lightning.
Contrary to buildings on land, most boats leave the boatyard without any means of lightning protection!
It is the responsibility of the boat owner or skipper to protect boat and crew from these dangers.
But even beyond these critical safety issues, there are many things to consider and decisions to make when owning a modern cruising boat:
- Should you install a generator? Or is a high-output alternator the better option?
- Under what conditions are lithium-ion batteries a safe and reliable alternative to lead-acid? And what does a standards compliant installation look like?
- How can networked electronics and digital switching systems be troubleshooted? And how can they be bypassed in case of an emergency?
- Are electric and hybrid propulsion systems really the future of boating? And what are the pros and cons of series and parallel hybrid propulsion systems?
All these questions require careful consideration and profound background knowledge.
To help you deal with these questions, we created our brand new online program:
Advanced Marine Electrics
Master Your Boat's Systems!
After the great success of our Boat Electrics 101 course, it is now time to dig deeper:
In the 13 modules of our Advanced Marine Electrics online course, we cover everything you need to know about your boat's electrical systems. The topics in this advanced course go well beyond the simple DC systems we covered in Boat Electrics 101.
You will learn how to make sure your boat's systems are safe and compliant to ABYC and ISO standards, how to protect your boat from corrosion and lightning strikes, and how to troubleshoot common issues. We also discuss recent technological trends and cover topics such as lithium-ion batteries, digital switching systems and electric propulsion.
Enroll now and get the early bird discount!
Meet your teachers:
Nigel Calder
Nigel is a full-time sailing writer, with a focus on marine technical systems. He is often referred to as the guru when it comes to mechanical and electrical systems on boats.
His books are widely acclaimed by both boaters and professionals in the field. His most famous book, the Boatowner’s Mechanical and Electrical Manual has sold 300,000 copies and a staggering 4,8 out of 5 stars based on 962 ratings on Amazon.
Besides writing books, Nigel is a long-time member of the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) electrical Project Technical Committee (PTC) which writes the standards for recreational boat systems in the USA, and has also been involved in European standards development.
Nigel is responsible for creating the lecture notes of the modules of Advanced Marine Electrics and double checks every single word we say in our video lessons.
What You’ll Get When You Sign Up
Our Advanced Marine Electrics program offers you access to all our advanced modules that go beyond the basics of simple DC systems. The 13 modules of this program are each covering independent topics and you can access the modules in any order you like.
Instant Access to 52 Lessons
After signing up to Advanced Marine Electrics program, you will get instant access to all 13 modules of the course. See below for a detailed description of the course contents.
Lecture Notes & Video Lessons
For each of the modules, there is a set of detailed lecture notes with illustration that cover the module's content. You will get immediate access to all lecture notes. We have video lessons the first five modules (about 5h total) and will be continuously releasing additional videos over the coming months.
Updates & Bonus Content
We regularly update our content to reflect changes in standards. Over time we will also be adding exclusive bonus content, such as talks by Nigel.
Classroom Exchange & Discussions
There is a comment section for each lesson where you can discuss the course content with other students. And if you have questions about the lesson, your teachers are there to help you as well.
Meet your teachers:
Dr. Jan Athenstädt
Jan holds a PhD in computer science and will guide you through the video lessons. During his studies of computer science in Germany and the US, he has worked as crew on various tall ships before moving aboard his own boat.
He started teaching people how to install and maintain technical systems on their boat through his German online magazine KlabauterKiste. He later started an online shop for boat electric supplies which he runs from his boat while sailing the Med.
Jan also takes care of the technical side of BoatHowTo and he has created most of the illustrations and animations in the lessons.
What you'll learn in our
Advanced Marine Electrics Course
In 13 individual modules we cover all imaginable topics in marine electrics that go beyond DC systems
(click on a module to view its content)
A short introduction to the various grounding circuits we will cover in this overview module.
In this lesson, we take a look at the common ground point, which we call a grounding bus to distinguish it from what we have called the DC circuit ground. We also learn about the core differences between grounded and isolated ground DC systems.
We learn about the purpose of all grounding systems plus installation requirements for grounding and bonding systems depending on this purpose.
After discussing the safety risks of AC systems, we will explore the fundamental differences between AC and DC systems.
We learn about the importance of the normally non-current-carrying grounding conductor for the safety of AC systems. In the second half of the lesson we will also get to understand a phenomenon called Electric Shock Drowning and how such incidents can be prevented.
We delve into the ABYC and ISO installation requirements for shorepower-based AC systems on boats and how you can make sure your system is safe and standards compliant.
In this short intro lesson, we discuss how to safely switch between various power sources.
We get to know the various onboard power sources and how we can integrate them into a boat's AC system.
We learn about mechanisms to prevent corrosion issues that can be caused by the grounding conductor of a shorepower connection.
If you are venturing to foreign countries (or if your local marina is badly wired) you will have to deal with varying shoreside voltages and frequencies. In this lesson, we present a simple way to prepare a boat for such circumstances without the need for any expensive specialized equipment.
In this bonus article, Nigel dives a bit deeper into criteria for selecting an inverter for onboard use.
We learn about the electrochemical processes that cause galvanic corrosion when two different types of metal are electrically connected and immersed in an electrolyte.
We discuss how to minimize the risk for corrosion by choosing the right materials, surface coatings, and construction methods.
We explore how to use a bonding system and sacrificial anodes to keep corrosion at bay. We also briefly look at impressed current systems.
Stray-current corrosion can be much worse than galvanic corrosion. We examine various examples of stray-current corrosion and how you can minimize the risk on your boat.
In this introductory lesson on lightning protection, we will explore how lightning storms develop. We will also talk about the potential damage of direct or indirect strikes.
We look at the two main classes of lightning, various lightning protection standards and how to minimize the risk of damage from a strike.
We focus on ways recommended by the ABYC and ISO to safely conduct lightning current to ground in the case of a direct strike.
We explore ABYC and ISO approaches to preventing high voltage transients and to protect your boat and crew from arcing and side flashes caused by lightning.
In this lesson, we discuss how the most recent National Fire Protection Association NFPA 780 standard for marine lightning protection now has some significant differences with the ABYC and ISO standards.
We learn why the output of an alternator might be significantly lower in real life than its rated output and the implication this has for choosing the right model.
We learn about the various types of belts and how to ensure effective transmission of the engine's power to the alternator without belt slip.
We look at different mounting options for alternators and how to determine the right pulley ratio for optimal output depending on the model of engine and alternator.
We explain how to estimate the additional load of a high-output alternator to find out if the engine can handle it without overload.
We take a brief look at the wiring requirements for alternators, in particular with respect to the required ampacity of the conductors when run inside the engine compartment.
We learn about field current and how this controls the output of an alternator. We also look at various charge profiles.
We get to know how to detect faults with alternators and how we can "hot wire" an alternator to bypass its regulator in case of an emergency.
In this intro-lesson we explore the issue of carbon monoxide poisoning, the station waggon effect, and why portable gasoline generators are not a good choice for on-board use.
We get to know the difference between synchronous and asynchronous generators and various other selection criteria.
We learn how to install and integrate a generator into a boat's electrical system. If properly integrated, modern technology can help dramatically improve the efficiency of onboard generators.
There are a few typical issues that can arise with the electrical side of generators. We learn what to do if voltage or frequency issues occur or the generator's output breaks down.
What makes lithium-ion technology ideal for our on board use-patterns? We look at the key characteristics of lithium-ion batteries in comparison with lead-acid batteries.
How are lithium-ion batteries constructed? We learn what's inside a lithium-ion battery cell, and how high and low temperatures can affect performance and safety.
We cover internal and external safety mechanisms that prevent potentially catastrophic battery fires. We also learn which battery chemistries have the least risk of failure.
Lithium-ion batteries should not be called batteries. They are an energy storage system that requires sophisticated surveillance and control. This is the job of the battery management system (or BMS). We explore requirements for such a system when it's installed on a boat.
In this short bonus article, Nigel shines a light on future developments in battery technology that are expected in the coming years.
We learn about the specific fuel consumption (SFC) of an engine, which is dependent on the engine's RPM and the load.
What happens if we add an additional load to a boat engine at typical cruising speed? It improves overall engine efficiency! We explore how this allows us to generate electricity from the propulsion engine with surprisingly high efficiency.
We compare the efficiency of alternator-based systems both underway and at anchor to traditional generator-based systems.
What is the cost per kilowatt-hour of energy produced on board? We make a detailed cost comparison of alternator-based systems with standalone generators based on cost of fuel, amortization, and maintenance costs.
In this short introduction, we learn how data is transmitted digitally between various devices.
The current industry standard for onboard networks is NMEA2000. We explain the principle of the underlying CAN-bus technology and the requirements for the physical layer.
We learn how to plan and set up a standards-compliant NMEA2000 network, including the required voltage drop limitations. We also explore simple troubleshooting techniques.
Although NMEA0183 is considered by many to be outdated, there are still many devices on older boats that use this standard. We cover the main principles of connecting NMEA0183 devices but also the limitations of the standard.
This lesson is a short excursion into the future of onboard networks based on ethernet technology and the NMEA OneNet standard.
We get to know the core components of a distributed power system and why such a system can drastically reduce the amount of wiring needed on a boat.
We explore requirements for electronic circuit breakers (ECBs) in a digital switching system and how to size them.
We explore the smart capabilities of a digital switching system and look at examples of how they can be used to enhance the system's capabilities well beyond what would be possible with a traditional system.
We learn about the various things that can go wrong with a digital switching system and the importance of a "limp-home" capability that allows us to manually override the system in case of a software or hardware failure.
What are the key characteristics of purely electric propulsion systems as well as serial and parallel hybrid installations?
One of the promises of electric propulsion is the ability to generate energy while under sail. We examine under what conditions this is possible and what output can be expected with various propeller types and electric motors.
We learn about different types of electric motors and their efficiency in bringing power to the propeller shaft.
In conjunction with Scott McMillan of Electric Yacht, Nigel has undertaken considerable electric propulsion motor testing, including regeneration, using his boat ‘Nada’. In this extensive article, he presents the results of their efforts to optimize the performance of an electric motor over a wide range of power demands and rpm via dynamic setting of torque control.
What People are Saying About Us
Andy Schell
Skipper of ICEBEAR & ISBJORN
at 59-north.com
Guru of Yacht Systems
Nigel Calder is universally recognized as the guru of yacht systems. His hardcover tomes grace the bookshelves of yachts the world over. On Isbjorn, his are some of my most referenced books.
Laura Secorun
Managing Director at ona ocean
Wealth of Knowledge about Boat Systems
Jan has a wealth of knowledge about boats and boat systems, in particular when it comes to electrics. He is a great teacher and explains you in great detail how to choose the right components and install them properly.
Jeff Cote
Pacific Yacht Systems
Skills and Tools for Trouble Free Boating
Having the confidence and skills to tackle unexpected issues makes boating much more enjoyable.
The team at BoatHowTo will walk you through the skills and tools required to troubleshoot your boat’s electrical system, so we can all be safe on the water.
Our course helps you
SAVE THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS
... by preventing expensive damage
An improperly installed grounding system, for example, may result extensive damage to rudders, thru-hulls and sail drives. And it can even sink your boat. We teach you how to check your bonding system and prevent galvanic corrosion through the shorepower connection.
...by making the right choices
Boat systems are not only complex, they are also expensive. Properly installed lithium-ion batteries for example can easily cost you $10,000 or more. The same is true for a generator. If you optimize your system with our courses, you may be able to use significantly cheaper options without sacrifices in your onboard lifestyle.
... by doing things yourself
A good marine electrician costs you easily $100 an hour and just the planning of a rewiring (without the hardware) will often come down to $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the size and complexity of the boat. But even if you don't do all the planning by yourself, the information from our course will help you make informed decisions and save costly consulting time.
Don't miss out on our early-bird launch offers!
Advanced Marine Electrics
our course for advanced students
$
299
Electrics Course Bundle
Advanced Marine Electrics + Boat Electrics 101
$
398
Already a student of Boat Electrics 101?
Log in here to get our special discount for existing students...
Are you a professional requiring Continuing Education Units (CEUs)?
Choose the certificate option at checkout and earn 19 CEUs upon successful completion of each course!
Quizzes can be retaken any time.)
100% Satisfaction Guarantee for 60-Days
You are fully protected by our 100% Satisfaction-Guarantee. If you are not convinced by our course within 60 days of your purchase, just let us know and we'll send you a prompt refund.
Increase your confidence and knowledge now!
Advanced Marine Electrics
our course for advanced students
$
299
Electrics Course Bundle
Advanced Marine Electrics + Boat Electrics 101
$
398
Already a student of Boat Electrics 101? Log in here to get our special discount for existing students...
Frequently Asked Questions
You don't need a PhD in electrical engineering to follow our lessons. Basic high school math and a serious interest in the topic should do the job.
However, if you don't have a solid background in DC systems, you should definitely start with our Boat Electrics 101 course. This is where we cover all the basics. Check out our bundle option!
We try to explain everything in great detail and with plenty of animations. If you have mastered our Boat Electrics 101 course, you should be able to follow the advanced content. If not, just send us an email and we'll give you a refund.
Yes! There is a comment section below the lecture notes for each lesson. While we cannot plan your system for you, we do our best to answer every single question about the content of the course.
Yes. We are convinced that our courses provide great value for the money. But if for some reason you don't like them, just send us an email and you'll get your money back.
Yes, absolutely! You may be familiar already with some of the topics. We are convinced that even professionals can take a lot out of our advanced modules. You can also earn CEUs by choosing the option for certification at checkout.
We cover both the American ABYC and the international ISO standards. Most countries base their national standards and regulations on these, so our course should have you covered pretty much everywhere around the world.
Knowledge is key to trouble free boating!
And it has never been easier to acquire this knowledge. We are confident that with our courses, you too can get a deep understanding of even the most complex system on your boat!
If you want to follow all the lessons, there is going to be a lot to take in. But you can also focus on the ones that are most relevant to you. And you can do every lesson in your own time and go back as often as you like.
We are looking forward to seeing you in class!
Jan & Nigel