Overview

The Blue Sea Systems Traditional Metal AC Main + Branch panel is a 230V AC distribution panel range for boats with European-style AC systems, combining a main AC breaker with branch circuit positions in one factory-wired panel. The range covers compact 1-position layouts through larger 31-position layouts, with panel sizes from 3.75 in x 5.25 in up to 11.25 in x 14.75 in across the available configurations.

These panels route shore power or onboard AC generator and inverter power from the AC source to branch circuits such as outlets, battery chargers, galley equipment, water heaters, and other 230V AC loads. Each circuit position uses white toggle-style A-Series breakers, with backlit label positions and green ON LEDs to make the panel easier to read at the nav station, electrical locker, or cabin distribution area.

Key features

• 230V AC panel family for European single-phase AC systems on boats, with AC main plus branch circuit layouts.
• Available with 1, 4, 6, 11, 14, 22, and 31 circuit positions to suit small refits, sub-panels, and larger AC distribution upgrades.
• Hot, neutral, and safety ground buses are installed and pre-wired, reducing the amount of panel-side wiring during installation.
• Red reverse polarity LED gives a clear warning when shore power polarity is incorrect.
• Green ON LEDs at circuit positions help confirm which AC loads are energized.
• Backlit label positions are built into the standard panels, so circuit labels remain readable in low cabin light.
• Traditional Metal construction uses 1/8 in 5052 aluminum with a two-part polyurethane slate gray finish and MIL-C-5541C or equivalent immersion undercoating for corrosion resistance.
• Panel footprints follow common Blue Sea Systems Traditional Metal sizing, which helps when extending an existing panel bank or replacing an older AC panel.

Variants

This range varies by the number of positions and by panel format. Horizontal wide configurations are available for 1, 4, 6, 14, 22, and 31 positions, while vertical single-column configurations are available for 6 and 11 positions.

Across this group, the changing items are position count and panel format; meter configuration is not used as a distinguishing option. The selection mainly comes down to the number of AC circuits on board and the space available at the electrical panel location.

Electrical and system integration

Use this range where the vessel’s AC distribution is built around 230V AC rather than 120V AC. The panels are for AC distribution, not DC branch switching, so they should be matched to the vessel’s shore power, inverter, or generator architecture and installed with the correct upstream protection and grounding practices.

Because the hot, neutral, and safety ground buses are already in place, the installer can focus on bringing conductors to the correct terminals, labeling circuits, and checking polarity before energizing the system. The reverse polarity light is especially useful on boats that visit unfamiliar docks, where shore-side wiring can vary.

Installation and fit

Panel format matters as much as circuit count. The horizontal wide layouts suit helm consoles, bulkhead panels, or larger electrical boards with more width available, while the single-column layouts fit narrow cabinet faces and vertical distribution spaces.

Measure the existing cutout and clearance behind the panel before replacing an older assembly. AC wiring, breaker depth, bus access, and cable bend radius all need room, especially when multiple branch circuits leave the back of the panel.

Use cases on board

This panel family fits refits and new AC distribution builds on cruising sailboats, trawlers, fishing boats, and powerboats using 230V AC service. Smaller layouts work for a simple shore power feed or a compact sub-panel, while the larger layouts suit vessels with more cabin, galley, charger, heater, and outlet circuits.