How does charging an electric boat work?

Wake up ready to hit the water. With an Arc boat, you can charge overnight at your dock and start the day with a full battery. No fuel, fumes, or upkeep.

And while people often link “range anxiety” to electric cars, boats are different. They’re used less frequently, don’t go on long road trips, and almost always return to the same dock. That makes charging both consistent and reliable. Compared to fueling a gas boat, with the hassle of high marina prices and lugging heavy cans, plugging in at home or the marina feels effortless.

How charging works

Charging an Arc boat is as easy as plugging in. Every model — the Arc One, Arc Sport, and upcoming Arc Coast — uses the same CCS1-compatible system found in many electric cars. Just connect to a compatible power source, plug the cable into the charge port on the starboard side, and the boat takes care of the rest. Built-in systems automatically monitor temperature, voltage, and progress so you can plug in and walk away.

Ways to charge an Arc boat

There are a few different ways to charge an Arc boat, depending on where you are and how quickly you want to get back on the water.

If you want the quickest turnaround, DC Fast Chargers are showing up at marinas across the country and can top you off in just a few hours. For daily use, most owners rely on a wall-mounted Level 2 charger at their home dock — it’s as simple and convenient as plugging in overnight and waking up ready to ride. And when you’re traveling or docking somewhere new, portable Level 2 chargers give you flexibility: Just plug into a compatible outlet at a marina, rental, or friend’s dock.

And yes, even a standard household outlet will work. While it’s slower (think days instead of hours) it’s a practical backup when speed isn’t a priority.

Put simply: no matter where you are, there’s always a way to charge.

How long does it take to charge?

Depending on where you plug in, charging up can take around an hour or a couple of days. Here’s a quick look at what to expect when charging from 10% to 90%.

FAQs on charging

How much range can you get on a single charge?

Arc batteries are designed to support a full day on the water. You can cruise around at low speeds for over 24 hours. Spending more time at high speeds will use the battery faster. For example, the Arc Sport supports 4-6 hours of active surf sessions (including plenty of towing) and can support a typical 8-10 hour day of mixed use.

How long can I leave an Arc boat plugged into a charger without causing harm to the battery?

It’s safe, and recommended, to keep your Arc boat connected to a Level 1 or Level 2 charger whenever it's not in use.

What happens if I leave an Arc boat charging out in the rain? Is it safe?

Absolutely! Arc boats are designed and tested to charge safely in wet conditions, using a water-proof charge gun. Just make sure there's no moisture or water inside the charge port before inserting the charger as that can prevent the charge from initiating.

How much money can I save by going electric?

Charging your Arc Sport from 10% to 90% on a 48A Level 2 wall charger costs around $34–$37. Filling up a comparable 23-foot gas wake boat for the same range runs about $147–$185. That means you save $110–$148 every time you “fill up.” Over a full boating season, those savings can really add up.*

Ready to go electric?

Whether you're considering the Arc One, Arc Sport, or the upcoming Arc Coast, every model delivers the same easy, reliable charging experience. Request a demo to connect with our team and learn more about Arc charging solutions.

*Based on August 2025 U.S. national averages. Arc Sport battery capacity: 226 kWh; 10%–90% charge equals ~180.8 kWh delivered to the battery. Electricity rate: 17.47¢/kWh (U.S. residential average, ChooseEnergy.com). Gas comparison assumes a 23-foot wake boat with a 58–73 gallon tank; 10%–90% equals ~46–58 gallons. Gas price: $3.16/gal (AAA national average, Aug 4, 2025). Actual costs vary based on local utility rates, fuel prices, charging efficiency, boat usage, and operating conditions.