My setup is pretty simple. I have 3 identical group 29 Everstart maxx batteries from Walmart. 2 of them are on bank one, and the other battery is bank 2. I run off the two batteries and the 3rd one is my 'spare' in case I run the other two down too far. I have a prosport 20amp dual bank charger that charges and maintains them when I'm at home. all 3 batteries are in the observer compartment. we all surf regular, so Port side weight is always a plus.