

Boat Heads – Introduction
Boat Heads – A ship’s latrine is referred to as the head (or heads, plural). The term originates from the practice of placing the restrooms used by the crew’s regular sailors at the front of sailing ships, also known as the bow or head of the vessel.
A boat head, also commonly known as a boat toilet, is a critical piece of equipment on any watercraft. Unlike traditional household toilets, boat heads must be designed to operate in a unique and challenging marine environment. These specialized toilets must be able to withstand saltwater, humidity, and constant motion while still being functional, sanitary, and safe for use.
Types (Boat Heads)
The most common types of boat heads include manual, electric, and composting toilets. Manual toilets operate by using a hand pump to draw seawater into the bowl, and a second pump to expel the waste into a holding tank. While these toilets are simple and affordable, they can be unpleasant to use, and their holding tanks require frequent pumping and disposal.
Electric toilets operate by using an electric pump to draw seawater into the bowl and expel the waste into a holding tank. These toilets are more convenient and comfortable to use than manual toilets and require less maintenance. However, they can be more expensive, and their electric components can be prone to malfunctioning due to the harsh marine environment.
Composting
Composting toilets are an eco-friendly option that converts waste into compost. These toilets use a natural process to break down waste, eliminating the need for a holding tank. They are ideal for boats with limited space and can be installed in almost any location. However, they can be expensive, and their composting process requires regular maintenance and attention.
Installation and Maintenance (Boat Heads)
Regardless of the type of toilet, proper installation, and maintenance are critical for safe and effective operation. The holding tank must be properly secured to prevent spills, and the hoses and pumps must be regularly inspected and cleaned to avoid blockages and malfunctions. It is also essential to use marine-grade sanitation hoses and fittings to ensure that the system can withstand the harsh marine environment.
Vital Component
In conclusion, boat heads are a vital component of any watercraft, and choosing the right type of toilet for your boat is critical for ensuring safe and comfortable boating experiences. Whether you opt for a manual, electric, or composting toilet, proper installation, and maintenance are essential for safe and effective operation.
Furthermore, it is important to note that the disposal of waste from boat heads is regulated by various government agencies to prevent environmental pollution. Depending on the location, boaters may be required to use pump-out stations to remove waste from their holding tanks, or to use a macerator to break down waste before discharging it overboard. It is essential for boaters to understand and comply with these regulations to avoid fines and penalties.
Cleaning Procedures (Boat Heads)
Boat heads also require specific cleaning procedures to prevent odors and maintain hygiene. Many boat owners use specialized marine-grade cleaners that are formulated to break down waste and neutralize odors. It is important to avoid using household cleaning products that can damage the system or harm the marine environment.
Comfort
In addition to the functional aspects, boat heads also play an important role in the overall comfort and convenience of boaters. Many modern boats are equipped with advanced features such as heated seats, bidets, and touchless flushing systems that provide a luxurious and enjoyable experience. It is important for boaters to consider their specific needs and preferences when choosing a boat head.
Conclusion (Boat Heads)
In conclusion, boat heads are a crucial component of any watercraft, providing an essential function while also contributing to the comfort and convenience of boaters. Proper installation, maintenance, and cleaning are critical for safe and effective operation, and boaters must comply with regulations governing waste disposal to protect the environment. With the right equipment and care, boat heads can provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience on the water.

Some Examples on Amazon
Jabsco 37010 Series, Electric Marine Toilet, Boating Head (Boat Heads)
This product is available in two versions: one made in the USA and one imported. It features an integral self-priming rinse pump that is designed to bring water from the sea, river, or lake into the bowl, which comes standard with the product.
The design of the product is flexible, making it suitable for use with either overboard or holding tank discharge, providing versatility to boat owners. Additionally, a built-in backflow preventer is included to prevent flooding and waste return, which is a crucial safety feature.
Corrosion-resistant materials are used throughout the product, allowing it to be used in both fresh and saltwater environments. Furthermore, the product can be mounted up to 3 feet (1 meter) above or below the waterline with appropriate plumbing, providing flexibility in installation options.
Overall, this product offers a range of features that make it a reliable and versatile option for boaters, including a self-priming rinse pump, flexible design, backflow preventer, and corrosion-resistant materials.
Jabsco Twist n’ Lock, Manual Marine Toilet Boating Head
This product features a powerful self-priming pump that can be installed either above or below the waterline, providing flexibility in installation options. Additionally, the reversible mounting feature allows for the pump to be installed on either the right or left side, further enhancing its adaptability to different boat configurations.
Another notable feature is the flexible design, which allows for the pump to be used for either overboard or holding tank discharge, making it suitable for a wide range of boating needs. The use of corrosion-resistant materials throughout the pump permits it to be used in both salt and freshwater environments, increasing its versatility even further.
Finally, the fastenings are positioned at the front or top of the pump for ease of maintenance, allowing for quick and convenient access to the components. Overall, this product offers a range of features that make it a reliable and adaptable option for a variety of boating needs.
SEAFLO Manually Operated Marine Toilet Boating Head (Boat Heads)
This product features a self-priming pump that can use either raw or fresh water, providing versatility in the types of water that can be used. Additionally, this specific model is designed for use with fresh water, ensuring the safety and health of the users.
The pump is activated by a push button, providing a simple and convenient operation. Finally, the maximum draw for this product is 10A at 24V, ensuring efficient use of power and minimizing energy consumption. Overall, this product offers a range of features that make it a reliable and efficient option for boaters, including the ability to use different types of water, simple operation, and energy efficiency.
TMC Electric Marine Toilet, RV Toilet, Boat Toilet, Compact Design Bowl, Heavy-Duty Built-In Macerator Pump with Smart Flush Control Panel Switch, Features Quiet Soft-Close Lid, 12V DC – FO3869 (Boat Heads)
This product features a compact design that includes a heavy-duty built-in macerator pump, making it a reliable and durable option for marine toilets. It is CE-certified and ISO 8846 Marine-certified, ensuring safety and quality. The measurements of the product are (A): 14 3/16″ (360mm), (B): 17 1/2″ (445mm), (C) 13 7/8″ (352mm), (D): 10 9/16″ (269mm), (E): 5 7/8″ (150mm), and (F): 3/8″ (10mm).
The TMC marine toilets are easy to install, as they can be installed either above or below the waterline. The boat toilet base can be rotated to the left, right, or rear of the bowl, providing multiple installation options. Straight or 90-degree discharge ports are available for easy installation, and adaptors of 1″ (25mm) to 3/4″ (19mm) and 1 1/2″ (38mm) are provided for connecting options.
The toilet seat cover is round and features a soft-close lid, ensuring that the seat will never slam shut. The seat and cover can be unlatched from the toilet for easy removal and cleaning, without requiring any tools. This makes cleaning convenient and hassle-free.
The general specifications of this product include 1″ hose barb intake and discharge port sizes, a maximum head of 13ft/4m, and a top-quality vitreous white china bowl. The voltage is 12 volts DC, and the amperage is 18 amps, with a 30 amp fuse size.
Finally, the flushing mechanism is triggered with a Smart Flush Control Panel Switch, which offers two flush options: full-flush or half-flush. A full flush lasts for 10 seconds and delivers 1.06 gallons (4L) of water into the bowl, while a half-flush lasts for 5 seconds and delivers 0.53 gallons (2L) of water. Overall, this product offers a range of features that make it a reliable, easy-to-install, and easy-to-clean option for marine toilets.
VEVOR Portable Toilet, RV Toilet with Carry Bag, Cassette Toilet with 5.3 Gal Waste Tank & 3.2 Gal Flush Tank, Push-Button Pressurized Flush Commode with Level Indicator, for Car Boating RV Trips (Boat Heads)
Introducing the VEVOR Portable Toilet, the ultimate solution for your sanitation needs during outdoor adventures! Designed for convenience and reliability, this RV toilet comes with a host of features to ensure a comfortable experience wherever your travels take you.
Equipped with a spacious 5.3-gallon waste tank and a 3.2-gallon flush tank, this cassette toilet offers ample capacity for extended trips without the hassle of frequent emptying. The push-button pressurized flush system ensures efficient waste removal, while the integrated level indicator lets you monitor tank levels at a glance, eliminating guesswork.
Crafted with durability in mind, the VEVOR Portable Toilet features high-quality materials that withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Its compact and lightweight design, along with the included carry bag, makes transportation and storage a breeze, perfect for car trips, boating excursions, and RV adventures.
Say goodbye to inconvenient pit stops and hello to unparalleled convenience with the VEVOR Portable Toilet. Upgrade your outdoor experience today!
Pros:
- Generous waste and flush tank capacities for extended use.
- Push-button pressurized flush system ensures efficient waste removal.
- Integrated level indicator for easy monitoring of tank levels.
- Durable construction built to withstand outdoor conditions.
- Compact and lightweight design with a convenient carry bag for easy transportation and storage.
- Versatile usage suitable for car trips, boating, and RV adventures.
Cons:
- May require periodic maintenance and cleaning.
- Limited availability of replacement parts and accessories.
- May not be suitable for large groups due to tank capacity constraints.
- Initial setup and assembly may require some time and effort.
- May not provide the same level of comfort as traditional indoor toilets.