We did not check the fluid levels on the batteries when we purchased the boat. I would normally put that on my list but ran into so many other complications when commissioning the boat (unexpected complications), that it fell down to the bottom. I wrongly assumed that everyone operates the same way I do, I would never put batteries on board at the beginning of the season that weren't checked and topped up. These batteries were only on board for about 2 weeks before launch and were only plugged into shore power for a few hours.

I was considering AGM's or gel cells, I need to check the battery charger capabilities though. I have no idea if the current charger is switchable between formats and although it would be possible to swap out the charger as well the thought of attempting to modify the electrical system on this boat in any way is too scary to consider. It is by far the strangest rig I have ever seen, having started at it and in it for hours, I still don't get how this is a better system than the old ways. The combination of switches and circuit breakers mixed with breaker switches and what I think may be relays just seems too complicated. One thing that is a flag here is that the boat came with group 31 lead/acids from the factory, I would think the charger would be only adequate for OEM and not one dollar more expensive? (no insult to the builder implied)

The batteries are not all that difficult to get to, especially compared to the Island Packet. I think AGM's or gels would be more convenient but not critical. I understood why the IP came from the factory with gel cells after I took the batteries out the first time. Having gel cells was critical in that application.