Boat alarm system recommendation please?

[sunblock90]

I would like to install a simple alarm system for a 26' Twin Vee with a cuddy cabin in order to protect the electronics and the boat itself. Something with a key or remote, blinking exterior activation light, siren, strobe, and a cuddy door switch. any suggestions?

Thank you

 

[Silverbullet555]

Re: Boat alarm system recommendation please?

Don't know if it will do much good, but you could just adapt a car alarm. You would have to use a relay or two to fool the alarm into thinking it was getting the right signals. You could make it fun and make it auto start so it would start your boat and warm it up.

Or put it together with some simple components such as a push button switch that is activated when the door is open, a flashing LED module, a strobe module and a preprogrammed siren. Use a key to arm it or a hidden toggle switch which control power to the circuit.

 

[FlyinGuy1017]

Re: Boat alarm system recommendation please?

If you're looking for a simple fix, check into a pool alarm. They're cheap, battery operated, and scream louder than any automotive alarm you'll find. They work off a simple magnet/sensor, wouldn't require any real modifications. You can simply remove it (or just the battery) while you're out boating/camping/etc, and put back on after your trip.

 

[timjet]

Re: Boat alarm system recommendation please?

I have no experience with boat alarms but am considering one myself.

However my impression of the DIY or converted car alarm systems are that they are unreliable and prone to false positives. Better IMO to stick with a system that is built from the ground up for marine applications.

I guess it also depends where you keep your boat. A simple DIY or car alarm would probably work (for awhile) if your boat is on a trailer in your back yard. For a wet slipped boat, your slip neighbors and surrounding neighbors will probably appreciate a well designed system not prone to false positives.

There are several marine systems available. Google Marine Security Systems or Boat Alarms to start. Also try Flagship Marine, the boat nanny, boat alarm US, and several others.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Boat alarm system recommendation please?

My preference is a silent, wireless system but then my boat is either in my yard, in my garage, or at the dock at the lake -- all of which puts me within range of the head unit. My system is my design and no I won't divulge how it is constructed. It does contain a number of mercury switch and conventional magnetic and other traditional devices that are switched into or out of the system depending on circumstances. There is nothing external that indicates the boat is alarmed so even attempting to remove the cover sets it off. Attempt to move the trailer results in notification. Jacking up the trailer tongue or wheel also sets it off -- in otherwords, altering the current attitude of the trailer sets off the alarm. Doesn't matter how it currently sits. Try to unbolt the motor? Not suggested you try that. Cut the transom? Be ready for a BIG surprise. There are other surprises built into this system as well. One of them has four very strong legs and big teeth and another -- well, use your imagination.