Moving batteries to aft cabin

[In2Deep]

We have a 1984 Hunter 31. The batteries are currently in a compartment next to the aft cabin. The compartment is only accessible through an opening under a seat in the cockpit.

This boat is a first boat for us so we can learn to sail before moving up to a larger boat more suitable for liveaboard. Because of that we are being careful not to make modification that will depreciate the value of the boat.

It is a very tight squeeze for me to get to the batteries where they are now. I want to more the batteries to a battery box mounted on the wall of the aft cabin and also mount a battery charger on the wall next to them. We do not sleep in the aft cabin, but I know lots of people do and I am concerned that someone who wanted to use the aft cabin as their primary sleeping quarters might not want batteries where they sleep. I was just wondering what you think. The batteries would be easier to get to, but perhaps not something people want to sleep next to. Would you want to buy a boat with batteries mounted in the aft cabin?

[GordMay]

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, In2Deep.

[roverhi]

If the batteries are conventional lead acid, remote fill options are out there. They make actually getting at a battery only necessary to change them out or inspection. This is one of the suppliers, there are a number of others:
https://flow-rite.com/battery-watering/pro-fill

Would not move the batteries to where they impact living space. You may not use the cabin but that may be buy/no buy reason for a new owner when it comes time to sell.