7 Best Generators for Boats

Last Updated on January 2, 2025

It is important to find the best generator for your boat – one which you can trust and will last you throughout the years. In order to help you find the perfect generator, we have put together a list of the top seven marine generators on the market. 

Having a boat has allowed me gain personal experience on which generator really fits your needs for marine life. I’ll let you know first hand which generator I use and why.

Best Portable Marine Generators for Boats or Docks

Within this article, we will compare the differences between the seven best portable marine generators. We will cover the specifications of each generator, along with the pros and cons of each one. At the end, you will find an FAQ section where we answer the most frequently asked questions regarding marine generators.

Here are our top recommendations for getting the best marine generator possible.

Ranking	Generator	Review
1.	Honda EU2200i	Click Here
2.	WEN 56203i	Click Here
3.	Yamaha EF2000iSv2	Click Here
4.	Generac 6866 iQ2000	Click Here
5.	Jackery Explorer 240	Click Here
6.	Generac 7117	Click Here
7.	Westinghouse iGen2200	Click Here

1. Honda EU2200i

The Honda EU2200i is a premium choice for a portable generator. It is surprisingly quiet and offers plenty of power due to its 2,000 watts. It is also fuel efficient and easy to use.

Specifications

Engine	GXR120
Displacement	121cc
Compression Ratio	8.5:1
Engine Speed	4000 rpm – 4500 rpm (with Eco Throttle® switch off)
Cooling System	Forced air
AC Output	120V / 2200W max. (18.3A); 120 / 1800W rated (15A)
Receptacles	20A 120V Duplex
DC Output	12V, 100W (8.3A)
Starting System	Recoil
Fuel Tank Capacity	0.95 US gal / 3.6 L
Engine Oil Capacity	14 oz. /0.44 L
Run Time per Tank	3.2 hours at rated load and 8.1 hours at ¼ load
Dimensions	20 in x 11.4 in x 16.7 in
Noise Level	62 dB at rated load. 53 dB at ¼ load
Dry Mass	46.5 lbs. / 21.1 kg
Wet Weight	53.6 lbs. / 24.04 kg
Oil Alert®	Yes
Eco Throttle®	Yes
Ignition System	Full transistor
Commercial Warranty	3 years
Residential Warranty	3 years

Pros of the Honda EU2200i

• Quiet running sounds
• Strong power which can be doubled with a second generator
• Fuel-efficiency

Cons of the Honda EU2200i

• Some users still find it too noisy
• A separate funnel may be required

Recommendation: This is the exact model I use for my boat. It’s easy on fuel, doesn’t make too much noise and powerful enough to ensure you can run smoothly while out on the water.

2. WEN 56203i

Specifications

Inverter	Yes
Portable	Yes
Parallel Capable	Yes, cable not included
RV Ready	No
Fuel	Gasoline
Engine	79 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting System	Recoil
Voltage	AC: 120V 60Hz, DC: 12V
Running Watts	1700 W
Starting Watts	2000 W
Running Amps	14.2 amps
Peak Amps	16.7 amps
Run Time at 50% Load	7 h
Run Time at 25% Load	10.8 h
Weight	39 lbs
Approx. Dimensions (L x H x W)	17.3 x 17.7 x 11.5 in
AC Outlets	1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
Fuel Tank	1 US gal

Pros of the WEN 56203i

• Ultra light body
• Comes with many different outlets
• Parallel connect plugs
• Has an eco-mode and is fuel efficient

Cons of the WEN 56203i

• Needs frequent oil changes
• Run time is relatively low
• No electric start
• Can only power small appliances
• Requires altitude kit if it is used above 2000ft

3. Yamaha EF2000iSv2 Portable Inverter Generator

A great all-rounder, not only does theYamaha EF2000iSv2 portable inverter generator have a low noise level (51.1 dba), but it also comes with an USFS-approved spark arrestor. It is easy to use, lightweight, and small.

Specifications

Inverter	Yes
Portable	Yes
Parallel Capable	Yes, cable not included
RV Ready	No
Fuel	Gasoline
Engine	79 cc Yamaha MZ80 OHV 4-stroke
Starting System	Recoil
Voltage	AC: 120V 60Hz, DC: 12V
Running Watts	1600 W
Starting Watts	2000 W
Running Amps	13.3 amps
Peak Amps	16.7 amps
Run Time at 50% Load	Unknown
Run Time at 25% Load	10.5 h
AC Outlets	1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
Fuel Tank	1.1 gal
Weight	44.1 lbs
Approx. Dimensions (L x W x H)	19.3 x  11 x 17.9 in
Noise (Lower Limit)	51.5 dBA

Pros of the Yamaha EF2000iSv2

• Instant, easy start
• 2000 watt starting watts
• Clear fuel gauge
• Easy controls
• CARB Compliant
• Efficient run time

Cons of the Yamaha EF2000iSv2

• Has a relatively small fuel tank capacity
• Too easy to spill oil

4. Generac 6866 iQ2000

Specifications

Inverter	Yes
Portable	Yes
Parallel capable	Yes, cable not included
RV ready	No
Fuel	Gasoline
Engine	80 cc Generac OHV 4-stroke
Starting system	Recoil
Voltage	AC: 120V 60 Hz
Running watts	1600 W
Starting watts	2000 W
Running amps	13.3 amps
Peak amps	16.7 amps
Run time 50% load	5.7 h
Run time 25% load	7.7 h
Ac outlets	1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
Fuel tank	1.06 gal
Weight	46.5 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)	20 x 12.6 x 16.9 in

Pros of the Generac 6866 iQ2000

• Quiet
• Comes with a convenient PowerVar and PowerDial
• Low oil Indicators
• Easy to use and user friendly
• Parallel-ready to generate twice the amount of power

Cons of the Generac 6866 iQ2000

• Users have complained that parts have arrived damaged or broken
• Engine sputters
• Can be prone to stalling out
• Relatively short battery life
• Less power than bigger converters

See Also: Generac Generators

5. Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240

The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240 is both one of the smallest options and one of the most affordable. This makes it perfect for beginners and long-time generator users alike.

Specifications

Weight	6.6 lbs (3 kg)
Dimensions	9.05 x 5.24 x 7.87in
Operating Usage Temperature	14-104F (-10-40℃)
Certification	CEC, DOE, FCC, UL, CA Prop 65
Warranty	24 months
Capacity	240Wh
Battery Type	Lithium-ion
Input	8mm DC, 12V~30V / 40W max.
AC Output	110VAC, 60Hz, 200W (400W Surge Peak)
USB-A Output	5V, 2.4A
Car Output	12V, 10A
DC Input	12V-30V (65W Max)
Management System	BMS, Over Voltage Protection, Short Circuit Protection
Lifecycle	500 cycles to 80%+ capacity

Pros of the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240

• Lightweight 
• Sturdy plastic construction
• Solar panel compatible
• Easy-to-read screen

Cons of the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240

• Does not come with USB-C ports
• AC port has poor positioning

See Also: Jackery Explorer 500

6. Generac 7117 Gp2200I W 50St Inverter

The Generac 7117 Gp2200I W 50St Inverter is lightweight and comes with excellent fuel economy. It is by far one of the best options on the market.

Specifications

Dimensions	19.7 x 11.4 x 17.9 inches
Weight	46.6 pounds (20.97 kg)
AC Output	1700 Watts
Oil Capacity	0.35lts
Starting Method	Recoil Pull Start
Residential Warranty	2 Year Limited
Commercial Warranty	1 Year Limited
Voltage	120 Volts
Tank Volume	1.2 Gallons
Run Time at 25% of Rated Load	10.75
Fuel Tank Capacity	1.2 Gallons

Pros of the Generac 7117 Gp2200I W 50St Inverter

• Lightweight
• Noise reduction option
• Excellent fuel economy
• Integrated on/ off button makes operation easier

Cons of the Generac 7117 Gp2200I W 50St Inverter

• Easily overheats
• Only produces about 1,700 running watts and 2,200 surge watts

7. Westinghouse Outdoor Power iGen2200

This reliable inverter comes with a user-friendly design and a stable engine, and is also extremely easy to set up. One of the best features of the iGen2200 is just how quiet it is.

Specifications

Gasoline Peak Watts	2200
Gasoline Running Watts	1800
AC Voltage	120V
Outlets	1 Duplex 120V (5-20R) 2 USB
Noise Level	52 dBA
Fuel Tank Capacity	1.14 gal. (4.3 L)
Gasoline Run Time at 25%	12 hrs.
Starter Type	Recoil
Oil Capacity	11.8 oz. (0.37 qt.)
Engine Oil Type	10W30
Residential Warranty	3 Year Limited
Commercial Warranty	1 Year Limited
Dimensions	19.8L x 11.4W x 17.9H in.
Dry Unit Weight	46.3 lb. (21 kg)

Pros of the Westinghouse iGen2200 Super Quiet Portable Inverter

• User-friendly design
• Stable engine
• 5V USB port
• Built-in carry handle
• Easy setup process
• Reliable
• Quiet

Cons of the Westinghouse iGen2200 Super Quiet Portable Inverter

• Once it has been turned off, the user cannot empty the remaining gas
• Stutters at a low RPM
• No “click” sensation when changing from choke to run mode

See Also: Westinghouse WGen7500 Portable – Small, portable and well priced. Plenty of energy to run your boating needs.

FAQs

When choosing the best generator for your boat, there’s no doubt that you will have questions. We will answer some of our frequently asked questions below.

How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Boat

It is important to choose the right generator for your boat – and this begins with first knowing what you need from it. When purchasing, make sure to answer the following questions:

• How many kilowatts do I need? 
• Have I considered an alternator output?
• Do I need a genset?
• What size do I need?
• How important is it to have a quiet generator?
• Will this be suitable for my needs?

Can I use a portable generator on a boat?

Yes, you can use a portable generator on a boat. However, you should consider the following things when doing so:

• Ensure that the generator is fitted with a spark arrestor to prevent accidental ignition within the exhaust
• Do not use it indoors or within an enclosed space (e.g. the area below deck or the cabin)
• Do not let the generator get wet
• Do not use the generator whilst the boat is in motion

What is the difference between a marine generator and a generator?

The main difference between a marine generator and an ordinary residential or industrial generator is that the former is designed to withstand moisture and corrosion. 

Along with that, marine generators typically do not need a self-contained cooling system as they are cooled by hydraulic pumps. As such, they are significantly smaller than a typical generator.

What size generator do I need to run AC on a boat?

As a general rule of thumb, you should find the necessary “starting” wattage needed to operate the AC unit. Following that, you should divide it by 12 volts to get amps. From there, you will need to search for a generator that meets this requirement.  

What is the smallest marine generator?

The smallest marine generator in this list is the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240. In terms of size, its dimensions are 9.05 x 5.24 x 7.87in, and it only weighs 3 kg. This makes it one of the best options for lightweight, portable marine generators on the market.

Conclusion

When looking for the best generator for a boat, there are many good options to choose from. However, at the end of the day, it depends solely on what you are looking for.

Are you looking for something big and powerful, or something smaller which would be easier to transport?

The most important thing when looking for a generator is making sure that it fits all of your individual requirements. Past that, the world is your oyster!