Sailing the San Juan Islands While Testing Our New Solar & Lithium Batteries

Sailing the San Juan Islands: Testing New Solar & Lithium Batteries

Embark on an exhilarating off-grid adventure with Sailing SV Indigo as they test their newly installed solar and lithium battery system in the stunning San Juan Islands. Join Chris and Adele as they push the limits of their sailboat’s capabilities and face unexpected challenges along the way. The Journey Begins With a goal to extend their off-grid cruising capability, Chris and Adele decided it was time to upgrade their sailboat’s power system. Their current 200-amp-hour battery setup proved insufficient for their needs, leading them to explore solar panel installation and replacement with more efficient lithium batteries. The Install Begins Working diligently, the couple focused on distributing power efficiently across their boat. Despite a few setbacks, like short wires needing replacement and strategically placing holes for wiring, they pressed on towards completing the install. /New Battery System Revealed With the installation nearing completion, Chris and Adele introduced their upgraded battery system: three 100-amp-hour Battleborn lithium batteries charged directly by the alternator. This efficient solution included external regulation, a new battery monitor, DC-to-DC charging, and even a solar component with 360 watts of panels installed. /Field Test in the San Juan Islands The first real test came as they sailed from Cattle Pass to Friday Harbor. Despite an initially gloomy start, their solar panels proved their worth by contributing power to their battery system throughout their stay on the hook. /Hiking at Turn Point Lighthouse Their adventure continued with a hike up to Turn Point Lighthouse, one of many historical sites in the San Juan Islands. Constructed in 1893, this lighthouse remains an essential navigation aid for mariners crossing Haro Strait between the US and Canada. /Stress Test #1: Weathering the Storm at Roche Harbor At Roche Harbor, their shore power cord gave out. Ironically, despite investing in a solar and lithium battery upgrade, they now faced power challenges once again. Undeterred, they charged their batteries using only their solar panels during a two-day weather event. /Mattia Mesa Adventure Aimlessly sailing towards Padilla Bay under the growing wind’s pressure, they shifted their course to the more protected Mesa (also known as Misha) Island. Here, they enjoyed relative solitude, with only a few other boats in the harbor. /Test #2: 72-Hour Off-Grid Cruising The true test came during their three-day stay on Mattia Mesa Island. Without using the engine, they maintained all essential power systems and charged batteries – including their dinghy’s – while successfully managing an impressive 17.5% battery life by day’s end. /Success and Future Cruising Plans Their successful upgrade enabled them to not only run their refrigerator but also their freezer – a significant milestone. Mac’s help with fixing the shore power cord allowed for further upgrades, including a new alternator box ensuring accurate engine RPM tracking on the tachometer. Next Adventures Await With their upgraded system now in place, Chris and Adele are ready to embark on long-term cruising throughout the Pacific Northwest and Canada. Catch all of their exciting adventures by subscribing and following them on Instagram @SailingSVIndigo.