A marine toilet, sometimes called a marine head, is a type of toilet found on boats and ships. While plumbing on boats is much different than on land, marine toilets still provide a comfortable and reliable way for boaters to dispose of their waste. In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of marine toilets, their features, and which ones we think are the best on the market.
Best Marine Toilets
The best marine toilets are those that are designed to be used in marine environments. They should be made of corrosion-resistant materials to withstand the elements and be able to handle the high levels of salt content in the water. They should also feature a reliable and efficient flushing system that will work even in choppy or still waters. Toilet should be equipped with a vent filter to ensure that odors are kept to a minimum. Good brands to look for include Raritan, Jabsco, and SeaLand.
- Raritan Marine Sanitation Device
- Jabsco Marine Toilet
- VacuFlush Marine Toilet
- Dometic Vacuum Marine Toilet
- SeaLand VacuFlush Marine Toilet
- SeaLand VacuFlush Toilet with Macerator
- SeaLand VacuFlush Toilet with Electric Flush
- Sealand VacuFlush Toilet with Holding Tank
- Sealand VacuFlush Toilet with Flushometer
- Tecma Easy Flush Toilet
When shopping for a marine toilet, other important features to consider include portability, size, and installation requirements. Some toilets are designed to be installed permanently, while others are designed to be best portable toilets for boat, making them ideal for boats with limited space. Size of the toilet should be taken into account, as it should fit comfortably within the area it will be installed. Installation process should be considered, as some toilets require professional installation, while others are designed to be installed by the user.

Types of Marine Toilets
When it comes to marine toilets, there are two main types: manual and electric. Manual toilets are operated by a handle that’s usually located on the outside of the toilet, while electric toilets are operated by a switch that’s usually located inside the toilet. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Manual Toilets
Manual marine toilets are a type of toilet designed for use in boats and other water vessels. They typically use a manual pump mechanism to flush the bowl and are relatively low-maintenance, making them a popular choice for boaters. They can be further equipped with macerators and holding tanks for more efficient flushing and waste storage. They are designed to withstand the unique conditions of marine environments and are resistant to corrosion.
Advantages
Manual toilets are usually more affordable than electric toilets and require less maintenance. They’re also easier to install and don’t need to be connected to an electrical system.
Disadvantages
The main disadvantage of manual toilets is that they can be difficult to use in rough seas. They also require more physical effort to operate than electric toilets.
Electric Toilets
Electric marine toilets are toilets that are designed to be used on boats and other marine vessels. They are designed to be watertight and corrosion-resistant, and usually use a vacuum system to flush the waste away. They often have a small electric motor that powers the vacuum system, and a small tank that stores the waste. Electric marine toilets are much more reliable than traditional manual marine toilets, and they are becoming increasingly popular for marine vessels.
Advantages
Electric toilets are more comfortable to use than manual toilets because they don’t require any physical effort. They’re also easier to flush in rough seas.
Disadvantages
Electric toilets are usually more expensive than manual toilets and require more maintenance. They also need to be connected to an electrical system.
Features to Consider

When shopping for a marine toilet, there are several features to consider. First, consider the type of toilet. Manual toilets are usually more affordable and require less maintenance, while electric toilets are more comfortable and easier to use in rough seas.
Next, consider the size and shape of the toilet. Most marine toilets are compact and rectangular in shape, but there are also round and oval models available.
Finally, consider the material the toilet is made from. Most marine toilets are made from plastic or stainless steel, but there are also models made from other materials such as brass or aluminum.
Best Marine Toilets in 2023
The best marine toilets are those that are designed specifically for use in boats and are made with quality materials, such as stainless steel, that are built to last. They should be easy to use and maintain, and should have features that make them suitable for marine use, such as a waste tank that is designed to be emptied without having to be taken out of the boat. They should also be designed to be space-efficient, allowing for maximum use of the space on board the boat.
Jabsco Twist-n-Lock Toilet
The Jabsco Twist-n-Lock is a manual toilet that’s easy to install and requires minimal maintenance. It’s made from durable plastic and has a large bowl capacity, making it ideal for larger boats.
Raritan PHII Toilet
The Raritan PHII is an electric toilet that’s made from stainless steel and has a powerful flush system. It’s designed for boats over 20 feet long and has a number of convenient features such as a foot pedal flush, wall-mount bracket, and a hideaway hose.
Sealand VacuFlush Toilet
The Sealand VacuFlush is an electric toilet that’s designed for smaller boats. It has an easy-to-use flush system and is made from durable plastic. It’s also easy to install and requires minimal maintenance.
Thetford Marine Toilet
The Thetford Marine Toilet is a manual toilet that’s designed for boats over 30 feet long. It has a powerful flushing system and is made from durable plastic. It also comes with a number of convenient features such as a foot pedal flush, wall-mount bracket, and a hideaway hose.
Maintenance and Repair

Marine toilets require regular maintenance and repair in order to keep them working properly. If your toilet isn’t flushing properly or is leaking, it’s important to take the time to troubleshoot and repair it. In some cases, you may need to replace parts or even the entire toilet.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning and maintaining marine toilets is an important part of boat ownership. It is important to clean the bowl and the holding tank regularly to prevent clogs, odors, and other maintenance problems. To clean the bowl, use a quality marine toilet cleaner and brush the bowl and flush the tank several times. For the holding tank, use a quality marine holding tank treatment, pump out the tank regularly, and flush the tank with fresh water. It is important to inspect and replace the seals of the toilet regularly to prevent leaks.
Cleaning the Bowl
Cleaning the bowl of your marine toilet is an important part of maintenance. You should use a mild detergent and a soft brush to clean the bowl and hoses. Be sure to rinse the bowl thoroughly after cleaning to remove any residue.
Checking the Seals
The seals around the toilet should be checked regularly for signs of wear and tear. If you notice any cracks or tears in the seals, you should replace them as soon as possible to prevent leaks.
Replacing the Impeller
The impeller is a crucial part of the flushing system and should be replaced every few years. You should consult the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct procedure for replacing the impeller.
Repairing Common Problems

The most common problems with marine toilets are clogs, leaking seals, and broken parts. To repair a clog, you will need to use a plunger or a toilet auger to clear the blockage. To repair a leaking seal, you will need to replace the seal with a new one. To repair broken parts, such as the flush valve or the flapper, you will need to purchase the specific parts needed for the toilet model and then replace them. In all cases, you should make sure to follow any manufacturer instructions provided with the parts to ensure proper installation.
Leaks
Leaks can be caused by worn seals or a defective flushing system. Check the seals for signs of wear and tear and replace them as needed. If the flushing system is defective, you may need to replace the entire toilet.
Clogs
Clogs can be caused by foreign objects that have been flushed down the toilet. You can try to unclog the toilet yourself, but if the clog is too severe, you may need to call a professional.
Noise
If your marine toilet is making strange noises, it may be a sign of a faulty flushing system. Check the impeller and flushing system for signs of wear and tear and replace them as needed.
Marine toilets for small boats
A marine toilet for a small boat is a specialized sanitation system designed to collect and store waste in a safe and secure manner. It consists of a toilet bowl, a holding tank, a vent system, and a pump-out system. The toilet bowl allows for the user to comfortably sit while using the toilet, and the holding tank collects and stores the waste. The vent system helps to expel odors and gases from the tank, and the pump-out system allows for the waste to be removed from the boat for proper disposal. Marine toilets for small boats provide a convenient and hygienic way to safely dispose of waste while out on the water.
Marine toilet with macerator
A marine toilet with macerator is a type of toilet designed for use in boats and other watercraft. It features a built-in macerator pump that powerfully grinds up waste into small particles and pumps it out of the boat, making it easier to dispose of. This type of toilet is ideal for boats since it is designed to handle the motion of the water and is able to handle the tougher waste processing needed for boat living.
What is a marine grade toilet?

A marine grade toilet is a type of toilet specifically designed to be used in marine environments, such as boats and ships. It is designed to be more durable and able to withstand the impacts of the marine environment, such as corrosion, saltwater exposure, and vibration. Marine grade toilets are available in a variety of sizes and styles, from small manual toilets to electric-powered models.
Can you flush toilet paper down a marine toilet?
No, you should not flush toilet paper down a marine toilet. Toilet paper can clog the pump or other parts of the toilet system, resulting in costly repairs or replacements. It is best to dispose of toilet paper in a trash can.
Depending on the type of marine toilet, it may be equipped with a macerator pump or holding tank. Toilet paper should not be flushed into either of these systems, as it can cause major blockages. If your marine toilet has a macerator pump, the toilet paper can damage the blades of the pump, while in the holding tank, it can accumulate and cause blockages. In either case, it is best to dispose of the toilet paper in a trash can instead of flushing it down the toilet.
Conclusion
When choosing a marine toilet, it’s important to consider the type, size, shape, and material. Manual toilets are usually more affordable and require less maintenance, while electric toilets are more comfortable and easier to use in rough seas. Some of the best marine toilets on the market are the Jabsco Twist-n-Lock, Raritan PHII, Sealand VacuFlush, and Thetford Marine Toilet.
No matter which type of marine toilet you choose, make sure it’s the right size and shape for your boat, and that it’s made from a durable material. With the right toilet, you’ll be able to enjoy your time on the water without having to worry about plumbing problems.