Leopard 50 foot utilizing ARCO Zeus high energy regulator and alternator

Leopard 50 Catamaran Energy Upgrade: ARCO Zeus & Victron Integration

leopard catamaran utilizing ARCO Zeus and Victron

Background: A Lifestyle of Exploration

When a couple purchased their brand-new Leopard 50 catamaran, they envisioned a life of freedom and adventure. With St. Petersburg, FL, as their home marina, they planned to spend most of the year exploring the Bahamas, living aboard their catamaran part-time. Prioritizing off-grid capabilities, they opted against a factory-installed generator, seeking a sustainable and efficient energy solution instead. They contacted The Yacht Rigger, a well-known installer of high-energy systems. Leveraging their expertise, The Yacht Rigger designed and implemented a customized energy solution that empowered the couple to live their dream of off-grid cruising without compromising comfort or reliability.

The Existing System: A Strong Foundation Needing Refinement

The couple had already invested in a robust energy system for their catamaran, including:

  • Solar panels
  • Two ARCO Zeus high-output alternators
  • A comprehensive Victron Energy setup featuring lithium batteries, a MultiPlus Inverter/Charger, Lynx 500, two Cerbo GX touchscreen kits, and a Victron BMS

This dual-voltage system (230/48V and 120/12V) allowed separate monitoring for different energy demands. However, reliance on alternators as a primary power source highlighted a critical challenge: controlling and optimizing alternator output for maximum efficiency without overloading the engines.

Victron energy system install

Identifying the Solution: ARCO Zeus Alternator Regulators

To address the challenge, The Yacht Rigger introduced the ARCO Zeus Alternator Regulators. As experienced Victron integrators and early adopters of the Zeus regulator, they knew its advanced features would complement the existing system perfectly. The Zeus regulator offered precise control over alternator output, allowing the system to match engine RPM with energy demands seamlessly.

The Leopard 50’s dual alternators required two Zeus regulators—one for the port alternator and one for the starboard alternator. These regulators were integrated into the Victron system using waterproof NMEA cables and configured through the Zeus app, making setup intuitive and efficient.

Installation: Streamlined and Integrated

The complete system installation, including alternators, Victron components, and Zeus regulators, took approximately 30 hours. The process involved:

  • Adjusting alternators and fitting belts
  • Running cables to the front of the boat
  • Installing shunts, shutoffs, and other components
  • Configuring the Zeus regulators
Zeus Bluetooth regulator install

Thanks to the clear instructions in the Zeus user guide and seamless compatibility with Victron components, the regulators automatically populated on the Cerbo GX screens once connected and configured.

Performance Transformation: Efficiency and Control

The ARCO Zeus regulators significantly enhanced the energy system’s performance. Key benefits included:

  • Precise Control: The Zeus regulators allowed real-time adjustments to alternator output based on engine RPM. For example, power was eased off at low RPMs to preserve engine performance during marina maneuvers and optimized at cruising speeds to charge the batteries efficiently.
  • Generator Mode: This feature enabled the owners to maximize alternator output while running the engine in neutral for battery charging.
  • Remote Management: Using the Zeus app, the owners could monitor, adjust, or even disable alternator output for peace of mind.
ARCO Zeus app with Victron screen in background

Customer Experience: Confidence and Satisfaction

The couple found the new system intuitive and reassuring. They enjoyed monitoring the energy output through the Zeus app and appreciated the ability to optimize engine RPM for efficient charging. Over two years of cruising, including multiple trips to the Bahamas, the system proved its reliability.

By leveraging the alternators as a primary energy source, they powered their air conditioner and other onboard systems effectively. They expressed gratitude for a system that allowed them to manage energy consumption as needed while avoiding the complexity and maintenance of a generator.

Conclusion: A Perfect Match for Modern Cruisers

The integration of ARCO Zeus Alternator Regulators with the Victron system on the Leopard 50 exemplifies the power of innovative energy solutions. The Yacht Rigger’s expertise ensured a seamless installation, providing the couple with a reliable, efficient, and user-friendly system tailored to their off-grid cruising lifestyle.

The owners remain enthusiastic advocates for the Zeus and Victron system, often recommending it to fellow cruisers. Their feedback underscores the success of this integration, offering a model for energy independence that balances performance, convenience, and peace of mind.