Tell Us About Your Boat
Select your boat type and approximate length. This helps us adjust BTU calculations for your hull type.
feet
Check this if your engine room layout requires the seawater pump above the waterline.
Need Help Designing Your System?
Our marine AC technicians have installed hundreds of systems across Southwest Florida. Call us with your boat name and model — we'll spec it out and quote it in minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate the BTU load for my boat?
The general rule is 14-18 BTU per cubic foot of cabin space. For a quick estimate, multiply your cabin floor area (sq ft) by 100. Adjust up 10-15% for boats with lots of glass (sport fish, express cruisers) or down 10-15% for well-insulated sailboats. Our builder handles these adjustments automatically based on your boat type.
What's the difference between self-contained, split, and chilled water systems?
Self-contained units combine the compressor, evaporator, and blower in one box — ideal for boats under 40ft with 1-2 zones. Split systems separate the compressor from the air handlers, allowing multiple zones from one unit — best for 35-75ft boats. Chilled water systems use a central chiller to cool freshwater that circulates to fan coils in each zone — required for yachts 60ft+ where refrigerant line lengths would be too long.
Do I need a self-priming pump?
Only if your pump will be installed above the waterline. Most marine AC pumps are installed below the waterline where they can flood-prime naturally. If your engine room layout requires the pump to be above the waterline, you'll need a self-priming model like the Oberdorfer 300B or Primetime series. Self-priming pumps cost more but eliminate air-lock issues.
Can I add AC to a boat that doesn't have it?
Yes. A new AC installation requires: adequate shore power (30A minimum for self-contained, 50A for split systems), a raw water through-hull and strainer, proper electrical wiring, and space for the unit(s). Installation typically takes 1-3 days for self-contained and 3-7 days for split systems. We handle the full installation including electrical, plumbing, and ducting.
How much does a marine AC system cost installed?
Costs vary widely by system type and boat size. A single self-contained unit runs $3,000-$9,000 installed. A 2-3 zone split system runs $8,000-$20,000. Large multi-zone systems for 50ft+ boats run $16,000-$40,000+. Chilled water systems for mega yachts start at $40,000. Our builder gives you a specific estimate based on your exact configuration.