electric solar catamaran

The Best Solar Powered Catamarans (2023 UPDATE)

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site.

Catamarans are incredible boats, and making one solar-powered really makes my little engineering brain go wild. In this article, I discuss some of the coolest solar-powered catamarans out there!

Here are three of the best solar-powered catamarans:

• Sunreef’s 80 Sunreef Power Eco Yacht
• Silent Yachts’ Silent 80
• Soel’s Senses 48

There are soo many variables that it’s tough to say one is better than the others. No matter which you board, you’re going to have a luxury experience. The benefit of these solar cats is that the experience can be had while maintaining a sustainable lifestyle and contributing to the betterment of the environment.

The diesel engine is dead, Long live electric power. Sort of…

Table of Contents

Solar Catamarans: Luxury Yachts

Before we look at each of these, let’s take a few paragraphs to talk about catamarans in general. First of all, when many people think of cats, they think of a relatively small craft barrelling across the water, one of its hulls in the air with a swashbuckling daredevil hanging off the side of it high above the water.

That’s not the kind of catamaran we’re talking about here. We are, instead, looking at yachts or cruising catamarans. These share one commonality with the other type of cat, and that’s the twin hulls. But that’s it. Cruising cats are slower, more stately boats. Also, on one of those little, quick ones, there’s not room for much of anything, and you won’t likely be doing any cooking or sleeping on it.

We’re also looking solely at solar-powered catamarans here, and although they have much in common with their diesel-drinking brethren, there are some key differences, which we’ll also address.

Perhaps the main difference (and one of the most significant selling points for a solar-powered catamaran) is the noise level. Gabo

Anyone who’s been on any boat with a combustion engine (diesel or petrol) on board has had to deal with the noise and smell.

But the drone (or roar, depending on the engine’s size and location) can be far from relaxing, which is one of the main reasons to get on a boat, off the mainland, and out to sea. Even if you’re marlin fishing—not the most peaceful undertaking man has ever attempted—you’re still out on the water and hope for some peace and quiet.

Eliminating that engine noise is a pretty big deal.

How Solar Catamarans Work

The biggest key to the success of the solar-powered yacht is not the solar panels – although those are great, as they look terrific and are well integrated into the ships. But the unsung hero here is the battery system.

Solar energy companies continue to perfect their industry. By making their solar batteries denser and denser, they create batteries that can store more solar power for more extended periods in smaller spaces.

And that brings us to an aspect you probably haven’t thought of:

Solar-powered yachts have more interior room because the battery system takes up less space than a conventional engine would.

Space customarily used by an engine room gets freed up for other uses.

Since most solar catamarans are nearly infinitely customizable, it’s hard to say what you might use that extra space for, but it’s available because of the solar power system.

The yachts have solar cells in all sorts of places, most notably on the roofs of the boats, but some companies build them in over large swaths of the hull, so they look as much like a design choice as a power source.

3 Best Solar-Powered Catamarans

Let’s be honest—if you’re dropping more than a couple of million dollars on a boat, two things are likely true: you have a lot of money, and you like nice things. All of the yachts listed here are lovely things, so it’s going to be hard to go wrong. 

As a result (and since these aren’t exactly accessible for test drives), it’s difficult to say which one of these is actually the best ; ergo, this list is in no particular order. They’re all glorious specimens.

Incidentally, where the price is listed, that number is an extremely general estimate. As these vessels are all entirely customizable and each choice below is available in different lengths and configurations, the cost can vary wildly.

To better understand what is a good price of a solar-powered cat, they should be compared to performance cruising catamarans or larger catamarans for families .

80 Sunreef Power Eco Yacht

This may be the most remarkable boat you’ll see for a long time. Sunreef has been in the yacht-building business since the turn of the millennium, winning awards along the way, and in the last few years, the company began work on its Eco line.

While there are shorter (and one longer) versions of this ship, the 80-footer (24.38 m) is pretty iconic. It offers electric motors to push it over the water and to do so with little noise, vibrations, and zero smell of fuel or exhaust.

As mentioned earlier, this is the yacht with solar cells pretty much all over it. They dot the sides of the hull and add to the overall look of the ship. With these cells and the panels on the roof, this yacht carries 200 square meters (2152 sq ft) of solar cells generating up to 40kWp (that’s 40 kilowatts peak, meaning under the best conditions, like on a bright, sunny day). Sunreef makes cats that run under sail, as well.

• Unlimited cruising
• No emissions
• Silent running
• Solar panels on the sides of the boat may not appeal to everyone
• Price: $8 million USD and up (new)

Silent Yachts has several versions of each of its catamarans. This eighty-footer (24m) is available in a loft or a classic version, but you get large spaces and incredible luxury no matter what you choose. The bathrooms alone on these things are pretty enough to live in.

Like Sunreef, Silent Yachts offers various lengths of these yachts, but they refer to the 80 as their flagship, and with good reason. Also with good reason, this yacht has been called “the Tesla of the seas.”

Three power options exist, each allowing higher maximum speeds for longer periods on the water than the last, but all three offer cruising speeds of up to 8 knots.

Its rooftop solar panels generate 26kWp of power . While that’s a significant step down from the comparable Sunreef vessel, the company claims unlimited range. Theoretically, it makes sense—solar power is even easier to come by on the open sea than on land, and with an endless supply, you ought to be able to cruise forever (as long as the sun shines).

All that power gets stored in batteries, and when it’s time to use it, the boat does so silently through its electric motors, on which Silent Yachts gives a lifetime warranty. While that warranty wouldn’t give you much peace of mind if you were on the float hoping for rescue, once you got it back home, whatever the problem was would get fixed, and you’d be ready to go out again.

Like any electric motor propulsion system, the Silent 80’s requires almost zero maintenance. Compare that to the ongoing work you do on your big, loud, smelly diesel engine. Not having to change the oil alone seems worth the investment.

• Recommended maintenance schedule happens after the end of most yachts’ lifespans, meaning you may not ever have to do any maintenance at all on this one.
• Kite available for additional propulsion (up to ten times more efficient than a sail)
• Its five-and-a-half-foot draft is pretty deep.
• Smaller kWp capacity than comparable makes.
• Price: $4.6 million and up (new).

Soel Senses 48

This is a smaller yacht (a little more than half the size) than the first two. However, Soel has built a beautiful boat that is entirely sustainably powered. The 12 solar panels on the roof generate 2.7 kWp of electricity stored in two batteries that can be configured to hold up to 142 kWh of stored solar power.

This, like the others, makes for a boat that glides over the water without rattles, without fumes, without noise. Unlike the others, its cruising speed tops out at 10 knots —faster due to its smaller size. Its top speed runs at 18 knots, but with significantly less kWp on board, the ship won’t run at that top speed for extended periods.

The company lists the ship’s range at between 30 and 56 nautical miles (55 – 103 km) , and the fluctuation will come from various options and choices available in operational modes.

• The boat’s 2.3-foot (70.10 cm) draft is shallower than the larger boats here.
• Orders of magnitude more affordable.
• This is a smaller boat and won’t comfortably sleep much more than 10.
• Limited range means this is a weekend cruiser, not a circumnavigator.
• Price: $600,000 and up (new).

Other Choices

These next couple of catamarans are newer and smaller, but they bear mentioning for various reasons, which we’ll be sure to point out with each one. Again, at a certain point, a yacht is a yacht, and if you can fit your friends and family on it for a fun trip, everything else is just gravy.

Smaller than Silent Yacht’s Silent 80, this one is a product not only of Silent Yacht but one made in conjunction with Volkwagen and Cupra, a Spanish car company.

Volkswagen has become a significant player in the electric motor game, so the company brings its Modular Electric Drive (MED) to this vessel, allowing for an even more efficient electric propulsion system than the one on the Silent 80. 

Cupra’s presence in the project seems to be solely on the design side of things. The Silent 50 is a vessel built with an eye toward a world in which water travel creates zero greenhouse gas emissions.

Aquanima 40

Azura Marine , based in Singapore, recently announced a solar-powered yacht whose biggest feature may have been its six-figure cost. According to Azura Marine, the ship can cruise indefinitely with a 10 kW solar power system and a 60 kWh battery pack. That is a smaller battery pack than the others, but it’s also a smaller craft.

This cat is a terrific combination of price and features.

Choosing the Best Solar Catamaran for You

This will be a personal choice and one you’ll want to do a lot of research on (which is presumably why you landed on this page in the first place). Since solar-powered catamarans sell for sums of money with at least seven digits in them, this will not be an impulse purchase for very many people.

Any of the choices listed here will be well-built, beautiful, luxurious places to lay your head or sip your mimosas while you’re on the water. It may come down to aesthetics, range, or speed, but all of these models offer incredible specimens that everyone—landlubber or old salt—will treasure.

The luxury yacht world is an exclusive one, but it doesn’t have to be wasteful or ecologically irresponsible. The yachts listed here are some of the best in the world in terms of combining luxury with solar power and providing emissions-free yachting that’s quiet and relaxing.

New yachts can be purchased from the manufacturers, allowing for customization, and various online yacht brokers are willing to help you find a pre-owned craft that’s right for you.

Finding the right yacht for you will depend on your wants and needs, but we can all agree that environmentally sound, sustainable power on these vessels is valuable.

• Electrek: This $500,000 electric yacht can cross oceans on just battery and solar power
• Forbes: Volkswagen Unveils 50-Foot Solar-Powered Catamaran In Partnership With Silent-Yachts
• Kite Boat Systems: Kite controller for sailing boats
• Plugboats: New 48′ solar electric catamaran from Soel Yachts
• Robb Report: Solar-Powered Yachts Are Taking Over. Here’s Why That’s a Good Thing.
• Silent Yachts: Silent 80
• Soel: Soel Senses 48
• Sunreef: 80 Sunreef Power Eco

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment.

Recent Posts

Must-Have Boat Gear for Catamaran Sailors!

Sailing is probably the most gear-intensive activity I've ever done; there are so many decisions to be made about what gear to buy now, for tomorrow, and what to definitely never buy. The gear on...

6 Best Trailerable Trimarans For Bluewater and Coastal Sailing

Having a boat costs a lot of money, even when you are not using it, marina fees, etc. And once it is in the water most sailors never go very far from their "home marina" and sailing will be somewhat...

Silent Yachts

Creators of the world’s first series produced, solar-powered electric yachts.

Unlimited Range

Noiseless cruising, zero emission, minimal maintenance, pioneering solar powered yachting since 2009.

The Original Solar Yacht

As the original inventors of series produced solar-electric yachts, we pioneered this innovative approach. Our first model, the Silent 64, was launched to the market in 2016, several years before any other shipyard considered the possibility of going electric.

Leading Technology

Our founders began to research alternative energy sources to power yachts during the mid 1990s. Today, the technology of our in-house developed solar-electric drivetrain has been perfected and is multiple generations ahead in terms of reliability, performance and efficiency.

Historical Track-Record

In 2009, the Solarwave 46 was launched as our first prototype of a fully solar-electric, self-sufficient ocean-going catamaran. Since then, our electric yachts have cruised many 10.000s of nautical miles, performing flawlessly during a variety of weather conditions.

Enabling Self-Sufficiency

What differentiates a Silent is the unprecedented level of autonomy provided by our yachts. Being able to produce your own energy enables a fully self-sufficient lifestyle on board. Travel the oceans sustainably while making them your infinite playground.

The award-winning entry to solar-electric yachts.

Timeless design meets state-of-the-art technology.

120 Explorer

The boldest expression of solar powered yachting yet.

What Makes Us Unique

The tranquility on board of our yachts is unique. A lack of noise, fumes and vibrations create a deep connection with the sea. Luxury and sustainability finally merged into a holistic experience, working hand in hand with nature by minimizing the impact on the marine environment without compromising comfort.

For optimal performance and efficiency, our solar-electric drivetrain integrates seamlessly with all onboard systems. Compared to fossil fuelled powertrains of motoryachts, electric powertrains have very few moving parts, resulting in minimal maintenance, maximum reliability and significantly lower running costs.

The ability to recharge your own batteries with the sun marks a new era of freedom. Depending on cruising speeds and weather conditions, a Silent has virtually unlimited range, enabling you to live a fully self-sufficient lifestyle on board. Unbound by the limitations of fossil fuels, you are free to explore the horizons.

The technology powering our yachts today has been pioneered by our founders almost three decades ago. Continuous upgrading and steady optimization of the entire system are some of the key reasons our in-house developed solar-electric drivetrain offers a comprehensive portfolio of assurances and warranties.

Why Silent Yachts

A sensible approach to yachting which works in self-sufficient harmony with nature and creates a completely new experience on board.

Tech Corner

Why a Solar Powered Yacht?

Let’s break down the advantages of harnessing the sun’s energy for yacht propulsion: solar power offers remarkable efficiency, significant environmental benefits, and an unmatched synergy with the yachting experience. Join us as we dive into the future of sustainable yachting and discover how solar-powered yachts are revolutionizing the seas.

Living on a Silent 62 Solar Electric yacht

Silent Yachts’ range is designed to harness the power of the sun, providing green energy and silent cruising. But what can owners truly expect? How much power does the Silent 62 use while cruising? In this article, we evaluate a typical day onboard the Silent 62, based on actual data from our yachts.

Silent Yachts’ shining debut at the Venice Boat Show 2024

Silent-Yachts emerges stronger under new ownership

New Silent Drivetrain

Tech shorts 2023

Electric power event on the water

Shipyard tour Italy by Michael & Heike

“The Tesla of the seas! An amazing founding couple, a highly innovative product as well as a really cool story behind it. Furthermore, a lot of love and attention has been invested into every single detail – truly impressive!” Frank Thelen / TV Personality, Founder, Angel Investor & Disruption Expert

While the present has brought us the dawn of smart cars, I strongly believe the future will bring us solar powered smart boats – and I definitely want to be at the frontline of that journey. Michael Jost / Former Head of Group Strategy of Volkswagen Group

The idea of sailing while charging your own battery is super powerful to me – solar powered sailing is the perfect love story! Jochen Rudat / Former Tesla Central Europa Director, Advisory Board Silent Group

Elon Musk single handedly forced an entire industry to go electric, as a matter of fact if they don’t all go electric now they will soon die. I would like to see the same thing happening for boating. You are not just selling boats – you are the actual leading edge of a crucial and much overdue revolution to sustainable transport!” Klaus Obermeyer / Emmy Award Winner

I am completely excited about solar catamarans. I knew before they are great but now I truly believe this is the future. After so many boats I’ve seen in over 18 years with Boote Exclusiv, this yacht truly blew my mind. Such a silent and peaceful cruising experience – just the way it should be. Martin Hager / Editor in Chief for Boote Exclusiv - Yachts

Sustainability Success

10 SOLAR Boats 2023 & 2024 | Electric Yachts & Catamarans

With more steps being taken towards sustainable development, new, eco-friendly solar boats have been introduced in the world of green travel: solar electric catamarans. 

Solar boats are electric yachts that can go for long distances without needing to stop for fuel and without emissions. Those solar catamarans are interesting eco-friendly alternatives to the classic power boat or sailing yacht for cruising. However, there are also a few disadvantages that you should know about before purchasing one!

10 Solar boats, electric yachts & catamarans

Here are the best solar boats that will delight you with a top-notch sustainable yachting experience based on your requirements:

Sunreef Yachts – Eco 80 Sail Catamaran

• Silent Yachts – Silent 80 3-Deck

HH Catamarans – HH44

Silent yachts – silent 60, sunreef 43m eco (140 ft).

• Silent 120 Explorer
• 100 Sunreef Power Eco

Azura Marine – Aquanima 40

Soel yachts – soel senses 48, serenity yachts – serenity 64 (hybrid).

Here’s a quick summary of the features of the best solar catamarans for green yachting in 2023-2024:

If you are an advocate of sustainable yachting or sustainable tourism and are looking to buy an eco-friendly boat that doesn’t rely on fossil fuels , then you would do well to consider getting a solar catamaran. In this article, I will go through the pros and cons of 10 of the best solar yachts and superyachts that you can buy in 2023 and 2024!

It is also important to note that while there are solar panels for sailboats that you can fit on older models, those new boats have been specifically designed to maximize the use of renewable energy.

Most Luxurious + Most innovative solar system

The Eco 80 Sail Catamaran is one of the electric solar boats provided by Sunreef Yachts.

It features a unique “solar skin” that covers all composite structures on the boat, including hull sides, boom, mast, bimini, and superstructure. This green tech makes it possible to place solar panels where it wouldn’t normally be possible (like the hull and any other smaller but useful surface) and provide enough solar energy from every angle.

The boat is 80-feet long (24.38 meters) and includes electric motors that push it smoothly over the water without causing any vibrations or noise.

Besides being solar powered boat, the Eco 80 Sail Catamaran can also be powered by wind and hydropower. It is designed with a sail on its structure, allowing it to tap into wind power and supplement the solar.

The solar powered sailboat generates enough green power not only to propel the boat and keep it moving but also to charge the essential electric water appliances and other water-sport toys.

So far, the Sunreef Yachts Eco solar sailboats have earned a good reputation for being eco-friendly and sustainable. Besides, this solar powered catamaran takes its commitment to the environment a notch higher by using recycled materials , natural fibers, and non-toxic paints to create their boats.

It is no wonder that Sunreef Yachts have been winning environmental awards for so many years. This solar sailboat is one of the most remarkable boats you can ever invest in and it clearly shows the latest advancements in technology .

Prices: about $8 million USD

Where to buy : Sunreef Yachts .

• Larger surface covered with solar panels, that are installed also along the hull, and in other unusual areas.
• The batteries are 30% lighter than normal
• Unlimited cruising range.
• It runs silently and does not cause pollution.
• It has also traditional sails, so it can cruise also when it is not sunny without relying on batteries.
• Luxury, superb quality and finishing
• Great helm position.
• The solar catamaran is very costly (going for $8 million USD or more).
• The solar panels installed on the sides of the catamaran may not be appealing to the eye of all people.

Silent Yachts – Silent 80 Tri-Deck Solar Catamaran

Best pure electric

The Silent 80 Tri-Deck Solar yacht is popular for the large amount of space it offers.

This solar catamaran by Silent Yachts features three large decks that can be easily customized to fit the owner’s preferences and needs. The topmost deck can either be open or enclosed.

This solar powered yacht offers 4 to 6 cabins that are customizable, regardless of whether the deck remains open or enclosed. Besides, the top deck provides additional living space and can be used as a luxury master suite that opens onto a private space outdoors.

Where to buy : Silent Yachts .

• Purely electric propulsion that can be helped by the kite sail.
• The finishing, while being of high standards, doesn’t seem to be at the level of other options in its category.
• Quite costly, with prices starting at about $6 million USD.
• If going for a long cruise during cloudy days you may need to run the generator to keep going.
• The kite sail helps to give some propulsion using wind, but it is less effective than traditional sails.
• The absence of a traditional sail may make the boat a bit less stable, compromising a bit of the comfort while cruising.

Best for world cruising

HH Catamarans is a small boutique boat builder designing some of the most impressive solar boats for cruising, with one of their latest creations being the HH44.

The HH44 is a groundbreaking new boat that is designed to be eco-friendly and efficient.

The boat has a large battery bank that can be charged by solar panels, and also has two electric motors that can be used for electric propulsion up to 7 knots for up to 2h.

The HH44 has an innovative propulsion system named Eco-Drive. This is a parallel hybrid system that combines diesel and electric propulsion for long-range motoring and silent electric propulsion.

The boat also has two diesel engines, which can be used for long-range motoring or to generate electricity. The boat is also designed to be safe, with four propulsion devices plus sails and a large solar array.

The HH44 has a number of technical features that make it a groundbreaking eco-friendly design, including:

• 3 types of propulsion: full electric, standard diesel, and sail.
• 4.2 kWh of solar panels: generating power for recharging the lithium battery bank for solar .
• 10 kW electric motors (5kW each): mounted on the back end of each diesel engine for electric propulsion.
• The diesel engines can be used both for propulsion and as electric generators.
• Possibility to use the propellers to recharge the battery while the boat is sailing. Kind of like using hydropower to charge your solar batteries , pretty cool!

The HH44 is also a performance catamaran thanks to its C-shaped §daggerboards. Daggerboards are an essential component of many sailing vessels, providing both vertical lift and increased upwind sailing performance.

This solar powered yacht features up to 4 double cabins and 2 heads . Not bad for this world-cruising vessel!

If instead, you are looking for a larger boat, HH Catamarans also have other models up to 88ft.

This solar catamaran was also the preferred choice of Gone with the Wynns , a popular cruising YouTube channel. Here’s their announcement video:

Where to buy : HH Catamarans .

• A true performance world cruiser.
• Very resilient with 3 different propulsion modes (electric, sail, and conventional engines) and ideal for offshore cruising.
• It can run silently and without causing pollution.
• More affordable than other solar catamarans, starting from $1 mm USD
• Smaller than other options.
• The improved sailing performance requires narrower hulls, which reduces the available space onboard compared to other traditional vessels of similar size

Best mid-range

The Silent 60 is one of the smaller electric boats made by Silent Yachts. It is designed to be handled by at least two people. The users can either choose to include an additional crew or not.

Despite its outward small appearance, Silent 60 is very spacious and can accommodate a good number of people.

Besides, the electric yacht has a beautiful design that adds to its elegant and luxurious feel. It is usually designed with up to 6 cabins , with each cabin offering every basic amenity you need to have a luxurious stay on the yacht. In fact, the electric solar boat is equipped with everything you need to allow you to live on board permanently!

As someone who loves spending time on the water, I was really excited to learn about the Sunreef 43M Eco: a superyacht that is both eco-friendly and luxurious.

I was especially impressed by the solar power system, which is built into the composite structures of the yacht, and the large hydraulic platform which creates a vast walkaround beach club.

The interior of the solar superyacht is just as impressive as the exterior, with a variety of sustainably-sourced materials and fabrics used throughout as well as energy-saving air-conditioning. The Sunreef 43M Eco can welcome up to 12 guests in the most luxurious conditions.

Silent Yachts – Silent 120 Explorer

Here’s another incredible solar super-yacht by Silent Yachts. The Silent 120 Explorer is a truly unique yacht, designed to explore the world in style and comfort.

Powered by solar energy, this solar catamaran is perfect for those who want to enjoy the beauty of the open seas without worrying about the impact on the environment.

With plenty of space for guests and all the amenities you need onboard, the Silent 120 Explorer is the perfect choice for your next adventure. If you’re looking for a yacht that combines luxury and environmental responsibility, the Silent 120 Explorer is a perfect choice.

The company didn’t yet release detailed information, however, this superyacht seems to be even featuring a helipad under the roof’s solar panels!

The Silent 120 Explorer has plenty of room for guests and all the amenities you need onboard. So if you’re ready to embark on your next great adventure, be sure to consider the Silent 120 Explorer, which will likely start being delivered in 2023.

The 100 Sunreef Power Eco

Sunreef recently launched and sold their first 100 Sunreef Power Eco catamaran, a transatlantic luxury craft that takes solar boat design to the next level.

With massive living space, great autonomy, and impressive features like a flybridge that can be transformed into an outdoor cinema, the 100 Sunreef Power Eco is the perfect vessel for cruising in supreme luxury

This catamaran uses the latest innovations in solar power to achieve outstanding energy efficiency, and its ultralight battery bank provides for silent cruising and infinite range.

The fully customizable interior and exterior make this catamaran a truly one-of-a-kind option, and its use of ethically-sourced and eco-responsible materials is sure to please even the most discerning buyer.

If you’re looking for an electric yacht that is both luxurious and eco-friendly, the 100 Sunreef Power Eco is certainly a great option for you if you can afford it!

The most affordable $

The Aquanima 40 catamaran is entirely powered by solar energy. It features creative adaptations and unique innovations that make it eco-friendlier and more economical boat than other solar-powered catamarans. For example, the solar panels installed on the electric catamaran are built in such a way that they can sell any excess solar energy back to shore stations when connected.

The exterior of the Aquanima 40 has an elegant design. Also, the interior is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also very clean and modern.

The boat is designed with 2 single cabins for the crew and 2 double cabins for guests.

Indeed, this solar boat by Azura Marine is one of the most economical and cost-effective options you can go for when buying a solar catamaran.

• Relatively fast.
• Ideal for short vacations.
• The most affordable solar catamaran, starting at about $0.6 million USD.
• Much smaller than other options.
• Not recommended for long cruises.
• Basic looks and layout.

As its name suggests, the Soel Senses 48 is 48 feet long. It has a slender design and is lightweight , making it more economical than most other solar-powered boats.

The boat is designed with two sleeping berths that can accommodate two people each. It also includes a salon that can offer enough sleeping space for four people. 

Compared with most other solar yachts, the Soel Senses 48 has a much smaller size. Its size, adding to its sleek and innovative design, give it faster speed than other solar-powered boats.

It incorporates 12 solar panels installed on the roof ; all these panels generate a combined electrical power of up to 2.7 kWh. The electricity generated by the solar panels is then stored in two batteries which can be easily configured to hold a maximum solar power of 142 kWh.

Like other Soel Yachts, the Soel Senses 48 glides smoothly over water without causing any noise, rattles, or generating fumes.

It has average cruising speeds of 10 knots, even reaching top speeds of up to 18 knots. However, the solar catamaran cannot run at its top speed for long periods.

Both the interior and the exterior of the Soel Senses 48 have a sleek and modern design. Every single component of the solar catamaran has been designed carefully to make it as functional and comfortable as possible. Therefore, when you board on this boat, you can expect to experience one of the best sailing experiences of your life.

The Serenity 64 Yacht features a diesel engine. It is a hybrid solar boat, which means that it can run on either solar power or on diesel.

The diesel engine especially comes in handy when the users wish to achieve faster cruising.

The solar catamaran is a very spacious electric boat and provides plenty of living space. It is built with four luxurious cabins, with each cabin having its ensuite bathroom. And even though the Serenity 64 is smaller than the Serenity 74 model also built by Serenity, it still provided an elegant feel and a smooth sailing experience.

Solar Boats Pros and Cons

The sun is a powerful and free source of energy, making solar power an attractive option for those looking to power their yacht. Solar panels can be used to generate electricity to run the yacht’s lights, appliances, and even the engine. Solar power can also be used to heat water for showers and laundry. But, what are the pros and cons of solar catamarans?

Here’s a quick summary of the solar yachts’ advantages and disadvantages:

One of the main benefits of solar power is that it is renewable and environmentally friendly. Solar panels have no emissions and do not produce pollution. In principle, they also do not require fuel, making them very cost-effective in the long run. Solar power is also very reliable, as the sun is a constant source of energy.

There are a few disadvantages to solar power. Solar panels can be expensive to install, and while they require less maintenance, this can be quite costly, especially when it will come time to replace the batteries. Solar panels also need to be pointing directly at the sun to be effective, so they may not generate power on cloudy days or at night.

But there’s more, let’s see what some sailing experts are thinking about solar catamarans!

Sailing expert’s solar Boat review

Recently, one of the most popular sailing YouTube channels, Saliling La Vagabonde , published a very honest and interesting review of the solar powered yacht Silent 55. Here’s a summary of their experience:

• 7 Days onboard (6 nights)
• Travelled 145nm with an average speed of 7 knots
• Generator used for about 12h (in total)
• Fuel consumed: 208 liters

Here are some interesting observations they made:

• While cruising it may feel less stable than a standard sailing boat because it doesn’t have a sail to stabilize it when hitting the waves.
• For the Silent 55 it was possible to move at about 3 knots by using only the power generated by the solar panels (without using the batteries) on a sunny day. This means that if you are moving the solar yacht around quite frequently, you will end up using the generator quite a lot to produce the necessary power.
• When the batteries are out of power, the Silent yacht is using a (diesel) generator to supply the necessary power to keep the boat moving and to power the appliances.
• A great luxury yacht with all the comforts and going in the right direction for the future of the sector.
• Overall, the Silent Yacht is a great eco-friendly alternative to a power boat , while if you are thinking about cruising around the world, you would be probably better off going for a standard sailboat (or for some of the hybrid alternatives mentioned in this article, like the HH44).

Why are solar yachts all catamarans?

Solar yachts are all catamarans for 2 main reasons:

• Catamarans have a larger surface, which allows for placing more solar panels and also offers more room for the batteries onboard.
• Catamarans have efficient hulls for their size. This reduces their power consumption while moving.

This makes catamarans the ideal platform to build a solar-powered boat.

Modern solar electric boats are undoubtedly an eco-friendly choice in sea travel and a form of green tourism . Not only do these electric boats provide a smooth sailing experience, but they also reduce the release of emissions into the atmosphere, reducing the environmental impact and enhancing sustainability .

Luckily, given their size, solar catamarans can charge themselves (unlike electric cars ), so they can sail indefinitely without the need to stop for refueling.

If you are environmentally conscious and looking to get a boat that is more viable, desirable, and eco-friendly, you may consider investing in one of the solar yachts discussed in this article!

CAT 12.0 Cruise

• up to 12 knots
• up to 4 hours
• up to 14 hours
• up to 25 Kw
• up to 160 kWh
• WC and shower
• layout cruise
• 50 -70 lt / h
• 31P + (Charts)

A truly sustainable cruiser catamaran with unlimited autonomy

A sustainable cruiser catamaran for an even more comfortable ride, cat 12.0 cruise specifications, energy & range, base equipment, gallery of cat 12.0 cruise.

Uniqueness of

Sustainable cruising and maneuverability.

With an unlimited range at low speeds and a maximum speed of 15 knots, the Sun Concept CAT 12.0 Cruise offers no compromise at sea. One of the very few compact electric catamarans, this 40-foot boat features exceptional torque at low revs, low drag and light weight, providing for excellent manoeuvrability and ease of use.

A Luxurious Floating Living Lifestyle

An energy-wise self-sufficient boat, the Sun Concept CAT 12.0 Cruise makes a luxurious floating living platform with sleeping spaces up to 7 persons. While the double cabins with private bathrooms are not overtly spacious making a perfect living space for 1-2 persons each, the helm is a truly transformable space where the dining table can give way to a double bed in moments and the transformable sofas are there if you need another sleeping place above deck.

View video reviews, onboard virtual tours and walkthroughs, sea trials and test drives of CAT 12.0 Cruise from the manufacturer and independent yachting experts.

Download PDF documents for the CAT 12.0 Cruise model including brochures with standard specifications, price lists featuring optional upgrades, performance charts and test drive data.

Request more information

Latest stories.

The Rise of Electric Catamarans: A New Era in Sustainable Boating

VOLTA Showcases Electric Boats at Palma International Boat Show 2024

Announcing Valencia Electric Boat Show 2024

Why Electric Propulsion Is Set to Change the Future of Boats

Interview with João Bastos

VOLTA Showcases Sustainable Boating at Barcelona Boat Show: La Vanguardia Interview

VOLTA's Electric Catamaran Makes Waves on La Sexta News at Barcelona Boat Show 2023

VOLTA Showcases Electric Boating Innovation at Barcelona Boat Show 2023

10 Reasons Why Electric Boats are Eco-Friendly

Why Green Boating Is So Much More than a Trend

VOLTA Presents the CAT 12.0 Lounge at the Barcelona Boat Show 2023

Benefits of having an electric boat in 2023

Sun Concept CAT 12.0 wins the 2021 Multihull of the Year Awards!

Naviwatt Expands Electric RIB Range with Powerful ZenPro 690

VOLTA Makes Waves at Barcelona Boat Show 2019

Volta @ Cannes Yachting Festival 2019

Leading europe's electric boat revolution since 2016.

Aquanima 40 series

Azura marine, this $500,000 electric yacht can cross oceans on just battery and solar power.

Singapore-based Azura Marine unveiled a new $500,000 electric yacht that they claim can complete “non-stop ocean voyages powered only by sunlight.”

The electrification of transport is slowly spreading into maritime transport.

While the focus has been commercial vehicles like ferries, it is also reaching leisure and personal vessels.

Azura Marine is the latest to enter the space with its first solar-powered catamaran yacht, the Aquanima 40 series, unveiled earlier this month in Bali, Indonesia.

The company describes the electric vessel:

“She is a unique 4 cabin, 8 guest yacht designed for extended cruising without any need for fossil fuels or refuelling stops of any nature. The Aquanima 40 solar-powered catamarans are also equipped with a 56 m2 rain catchment system, water maker and air conditioning water recovery – rendering water supply stops unnecessary too.”

Here are a few pictures of the Aquanima 40 series solar yacht:

Azura Marine claims that the vessel can continuously cruise thanks to its large 10 kW solar power system and 60 kWh battery pack.

Here are some of the specs of the Aquanima 40 series:

• LOA 13,25 m
• Draft 65 cm
• Propulsion Power: 2 x 10 kW
• Solar Power: 10 kW
• Main Battery Bank Capacity: 60 kWh

The company writes about the capacity of the electric vessel:

“For the owner, this means limitless cruising with no fuel costs, no noise or vibration, no smells, no polluting emissions and no disturbance of marine life.  The electric motors are virtually maintenance-free with only a couple of low-cost bearings to be replaced at 20,000 hours (more than a typical lifetime usage of a yacht).”

Here are some pictures from inside the electric yacht:

The company lists several amenities available onboard its new electric vessel:

“The yacht offers all the comfort to be expected of a modern cruiser with air conditioning, fully equipped galley including ice maker, hob and sink.  On this version, the bathroom and toilet is on main deck for greater ease of access as this vessel is strongly oriented towards enjoying the outdoors, exploring hidden bays with the electric dinghy or diving on pristine reefs. Onboard Solar Eclipse, all water is self-produced, including fresh and drinking water, thanks to the yacht’s water-maker, air conditioning water recovery system and gigantic rain water collecting solar roof.  She features a high quality marine sound system and all round WIFI connectivity.”

Azura Marine Co-Founder and CEO Julien Mélot commented on the launch of the new electric vessel:

“it was an enormous thrill to launch the yacht last week and undertake her first few miles at sea.  The yacht met all our expectations and while the design makes for near silent operation with exceptional responsiveness, it was incredible to actually experience it  – and all in the knowledge that we were not producing any harmful pollution or emissions.  With some strong winds and a very tight to enter marina berth, we were delighted by how easy the yacht was to manoeuvre.  We simply cannot wait to take her out on her maiden voyage.”

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

Fred is the Editor in Chief and Main Writer at Electrek.

You can send tips on Twitter (DMs open) or via email: [email protected]

Through Zalkon.com, you can check out Fred’s portfolio and get monthly green stock investment ideas.

Fred Lambert's favorite gear

Zalkon Green Stock Ideas

Get interesting investment ideas by Fred Lambert

ChargePoint Home charger

ChargePoint Home WiFi Enabled Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger

Manage push notifications

Sailing Catamarans

Motor Yachts Catamarans

Dufour Yachts

Commitments

History & Expertise

Team management

• Our commitment

The boat of tomorrow

Imagine an eco-friendly boat that blends into its environment without causing distruption or harm, while also offering a remarkably luxurious and relaxing experience. Fountaine Pajot have designed and built this very boat, transforming this dream into reality.

Fountaine Pajot, pioneers in eco-sailing

With a desire to always remain a pioneer in its field, the Fountaine Pajot Group began thinking about energy transition in the cruising industry in 2011 with the Eco Cruising concept, aiming to integrate as many renewable energy sources as possible on board cruising boats , especially through the use of a hydro-generation system. Since then, with the construction and launch of the first hybrid electric cruising catamaran , the Aura 51 SMART Electric, and the design and construction of the world’s first hydrogen-powered sailing catamaran , the Samana 59 Smart Electric REXH2 prototype, the Fountaine Pajot Group has become a leader in the green yachting industry.

Aura 51 Smart Electric, the new eco-friendly catamaran

Smart Electric, an adaptable system

A viable and effective solution based on the Aura 51 production series, the Smart Electric system, designed by Fountaine Pajot, is designed to be installed on every boat in its catamaran sailboat range. By 2025, 50% of Fountaine Pajot catamarans will be fully electric and 100% will be fitted with solar panels . By 2030, the Group aims to make 100% of its fleet electric and to phase out diesel engines.

Boats for a brighter future

Samana 59 Smart Electric REXH2 – The world’s first hydrogen-powered catamaran

The Samana 59 Smart Electric RexH2 features a revolutionary energy design comprising a REXH2 capable of delivering up to 70 kW of continuous power, a 63 kwh LiFePO4-EVEPOWER (Lithium Iron Phosphate) cell battery and 42 m2 of solar panels capable of delivering up to 6000 Wc. This energy mix means we can take advantage of all the renewable energies onboard the catamaran (solar, wind, and hydrogen). In port, the crew can fill up with hydrogen and recharge its batteries if necessary. All the technologies are managed by the Smart Cruising solution, an automated Power Management System for simple, intuitive control of this cutting-edge technology.

Aura 51 Smart Electric

Pioneering the Smart Electric system, the Aura 51 sets the course we are heading, as we will be integrating the system across the entire Fountaine Pajot range in the near future. The Fountaine Pajot design office, in collaboration with architects Olivier Racoupeau Design, has designed the Aura 51 Smart Electric to accommodate a large surface area of solar panels without affecting her appearance. Her large, user-friendly flybridge is fitted with 15.55 m2 of solar panels fully integrated into the catamaran’s line , capable of delivering 2000 Wc of energy to power two battery banks supplying up to 32 kwh each. An additional option produces 1.5 kw of energy by a hydro-generation system using the propulsion propellers’ reverse rotation when under sail.

The Dufour “Unicorn” Project

The first monohull yacht to be built using recycled, recyclable composite, this Dufour prototype is designed to prove the effectiveness of new, low-impact construction materials. The aim is manifold:

• To raise awareness of the lifecycle of boats and new ways of using them
• To encourage the recycling of materials at the end of a boat’s life
• To design the yachting monohull of the future, both inside and out, to respond to tomorrow’s expectations and lifestyles .

The ultimate aim is to deconstruct this eco-friendly yacht 100% in order to test its entire life cycle .

Discover also

ODSea People

Sailing towards carbon neutrality

How can we help you?

You would like to :

Are you a homeowner? We answer your questions

contact-owner.text

Receive an offer as a Charter Company

You own a charter company and wish to renew or expand your fleet? Contact our sales team to discuss your project

Contact us for any other request

For a partnership proposal or any other professional request, please contact our team

Subscribe to the newsletter

Follow the adventures of Fountaine Pajot Owners, discover the latest news and upcoming events, and take part in the development of the Boat of tomorrow!

EXPERIENCES

Innovations

• Contact customer service find dealer sea trial events inventory boats download catalog

Electric boating

Sales catalog

Configure your Solara 33

Elevate the boating experience to new heights on a luxurious lounge-like terrace on the water, transporting you to a world crafted for extraordinary experiences

Elevating the boating experience to new heights, Solara 33 stands as an embodiment of Scandinavian design, sustainability, and groundbreaking technology. This disruptive new product category redefines the market for leisure boats, shattering the price barrier between electric boating and 30ft+ luxury vessels with traditional propulsion.

Enhanced by a razor-sharp hull with a 1:20 ratio, this innovative solar-powered day catamaran ensures peak efficiency, comfort, and maneuverability to rival and outperform gasoline- and diesel-powered peers. Stepping onboard the 33ft vessel, which resembles a luxurious lounge terrace on the water, transports you to a world crafted for extraordinary experiences, where cherished memories are made with friends and family.

The new wave of luxury

want to know more?

POWERED BY THE SUN

From €255.900

Elevating the boating experience to new heights, Solara 33 stands as an embodiment of Danish design, sustainability, and groundbreaking technology. This disruptive new product category redefines the market for leisure boats, shattering the price barrier between electric boating and 30ft+ luxury vessels with traditional propulsion. Enhanced by a razor-sharp hull with a 1:20 ratio, this innovative solar-powered day catamaran ensures peak efficiency, comfort, and maneuverability to rival and outperform gasoline- and diesel-powered peers. Stepping onboard the 33 feet vessel, which resembles a luxurious lounge terrace on the water, transports you to a world crafted for extraordinary experiences.

CONFIGURE your Solara 33

ON-WATER LOUNGE TERRACE

Immerse yourself in the unique experience of both bow and aft terraces that elegantly fold down into the ocean surface, effortlessly connecting you to the sea. The Solara 33 excels in the boat-to-water transition; its very low draft expands your destination possibilities despite the boat’s 33 feet. Sail close to the beach, drop down the stairs, and enjoy direct water access.

VERSATILE LOUNGE AREA

Prepare food and drinks in the fully equipped kitchen and enjoy sunset dinners with friends and family at the central dining table. The backrest of the rear seats is flippable, allowing you to face the other way. Furthermore, the lowerable dining table makes room for a comfortable sunbed protected by the roof.

Enjoy trips on the Solara 33 from the aft seats, where an open design offers a full view of the boat and forges an intimate connection with the elements.

WELCOMING HELM STATION

The windscreen- and roof-protected helm station is equipped with a comfortable twin seat. The steering console has an exceptionally user-friendly interface, ensuring that the captain has everything they need at their fingertips. Meanwhile, the stability of the catamaran hull and the distance between the two motors makes the Solara 33 easy to maneuver, designed for a worry-free day on the water.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR A DAY ON THE WATER

The expansive roof on Solara 33 is a powerhouse of functionality. Adorned with a vast array of solar cells, it serves as a dynamic source of energy, fuelling the boat’s various systems and propulsion with eco-friendly efficiency. Recognizing that a day on the water is filled with unpredictable moments, the roof is also engineered to support every facet of your experience. Zip around the sides in a rain shower or shield against the wind. Its thoughtful design makes sure that, regardless of the weather, your adventure can continue.

MAXIMUM STORAGE SPACE

The Solara 33 is thoughtfully designed to maximize storage space, allowing you to bring everything you need and more for a relaxing day on the water. In front of the helm station, you will find a massive storage room with ample space for all the passengers’ luggage.

CHANGING ROOM

For ultimate comfort during your trips, you will find a full-standing height toilet and changing room underneath the stairs at the starboard of the Solara 33.

Specifications

Hull length

Weight excl. engine

Maximum crew

Electric Engine & Range

E-drive 170 kw inboard incl. 78 kWh Lithium Battery

Cruising range (8kt): 64 km Top speed: 30 Knots

E-drive 265 kw inboard incl. 117,5 kWh Lithium Battery

Cruising range (8kt): 97 km Top speed: 40 Knots

Petrol engine & Top speed

Mercury F 300 Outboard

TOP Speed: 44 knots

Mercruiser 6.2L-350 HP Bravo 3 Inboard

TOP Speed: 45 knots

Mercury Diesel 3.0L-270 HP Bravo x 3 Inboard

TOP Speed: 40 knots

*All performance figures are calculated and are intended as an indication. These figures cannot be guaranteed, as top speed and duration are affected by the cleanliness of the hull, conditions of the propellers, weight carried, and the condition of the sea. Equipment selections and production processes may lead to variations in the boat’s stated weight.

Locate dealer

CONFIGURE YOUr

View all boats

CONFIGURE YOUR solara 33

RAND Boats ApS Trelleborggade 7, 1st floor DK - 2150Copenhagen

Trelleborggade 7 2150 Copenhagen Denmark

• JOIN THE TEAM
• Questions and answers
• The World of RAND
• ELECTRIC BOATING
• LOCATE DEALER
• GET CATALOG

subscribe to our newsletter

Join the RAND Community to receive a free e-book, exclusive news, and captivating stories from the world around us.

SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER & GET A FREE E-BOOK

The global authority in superyachting

• NEWSLETTERS
• Yachts Home
• The Superyacht Directory
• Yacht Reports
• Brokerage News
• The largest yachts in the world
• The Register
• Yacht Advice
• Yacht Design
• 12m to 24m yachts
• Monaco Yacht Show
• Builder Directory
• Designer Directory
• Interior Design Directory
• Naval Architect Directory
• Yachts for sale home
• Motor yachts
• Sailing yachts
• Explorer yachts
• Classic yachts
• Sale Broker Directory
• Charter Home
• Yachts for Charter
• Charter Destinations
• Charter Broker Directory
• Destinations Home
• Mediterranean
• South Pacific
• Rest of the World
• Boat Life Home
• Owners' Experiences
• Conservation and Philanthropy
• Interiors Suppliers
• Owners' Club
• Captains' Club
• BOAT Showcase
• Boat Presents
• Events Home
• World Superyacht Awards
• Superyacht Design Festival
• Design and Innovation Awards
• Young Designer of the Year Award
• Artistry and Craft Awards
• Explorer Yachts Summit
• Ocean Talks
• The Ocean Awards
• BOAT Connect
• Between the bays
• Golf Invitational
• BOATPro Home
• Superyacht Insight
• Global Order Book
• Premium Content
• Product Features
• Testimonials
• Pricing Plan
• Tenders & Equipment

Rossinavi delivers first 43m hybrid-electric catamaran Seawolf X

Related articles, superyacht directory.

Rossinavi has delivered its "most innovative project" to date, the 42.8-metre hybrid-electric catamaran named Seawolf X . She has departed the shipyard's facilities in Viareggio, Italy and is now anchored near the Greek island of Tinos according to BOATPro .

Exterior design is by Fulvio De Simoni Yacht Design , marking the first project presented by the pair since the 49.1-metre Aurora in 2017. It also marks Rossinavi's first multihull project.

A key characteristic of the model is her three "performance scenarios". On one-day trips, Seawolf X can cruise in full-electric mode for 100 per cent of the time; on multi-day trips, she can cruise for 90 per cent; and on transatlantic trips, she can still cruise in electric mode for 80 per cent of the time. When the catamaran is moored, a "hibernation mode" activates for reduced consumption – with the energy generated able to be given back to the quay or to a private property. She can recharge at the shore in five hours and supplies enough energy to charge up an entire villa.

Rossinavi has also developed an onboard artificial intelligence system, called Rossinavi AI, to analyse the operation of the vessel, predict the needs of guests and communicate with the crew on "lower-impact behaviours" and "conscious cruising". The AI can also monitor the battery pack to keep it in a range of 20 to 80 per cent.

Her exterior is low-profiled and reminiscent of a sports car, with Fulvio De Simoni Yacht Design seeking "to liberate their minds from preconceptions" around catamaran design. The team also integrated solar panels into Seawolf X and addressed hull efficiency by developing "lightweight solutions", including an anchor installation that meets weight standards while enhancing aesthetics.

New York-based design firm Meyer Davis have created an interior that "complements the cutting-edge yacht to bring relaxed luxury and sustainable design to its forefront," the shipyard said. The decor takes inspiration from nature, in particular the sun, the sea and sand.

Leisure highlights include a convivial cockpit centred around a pool, an expansive sundeck with sunbathing and living spaces, and a bow area that features a hidden pool and convertible home theatre. Accommodation is for up to 10 guests in four cabins located in the hulls.

"After years of study and construction, it is now a source of satisfaction and pride for us to witness the launch of project Sea Cat, now Seawolf X , the first hybrid-electric multihull vessel," said Federico Rossi, COO of Rossinavi at the time. "This yacht showcases remarkable technological innovations in both power management and propulsion technologies, marking the beginning of a new chapter in next-generation vessels." 

Seawolf X also carries the BlUE label, the shipyard' "sustainable" design philosophy established in 2022. Inspired by phytoplankton, the BlUE fleet absorbs sunlight during the day and utilises photovoltaic technology to convert it into energy. This energy is stored in advanced batteries and released at night, creating a bioluminescent effect "akin to glowing plankton".

Seawolf X is available for charter with Cecil Wright from €380,000 per week.

Sign up to BOAT Briefing email

Latest news, brokerage headlines and yacht exclusives, every weekday

By signing up for BOAT newsletters, you agree to our Terms of Use and our Privacy Policy .

More about this yacht

Similar yachts for sale, more stories, most popular, from our partners, sponsored listings.

Your cart is empty

Have an account?

Log in to check out faster.

Estimated total

Free Shipping Over $50 + Money Back Guarantee

Country/region

• Australia USD $
• Canada CAD $
• France USD $
• United States USD $
• Afghanistan USD $
• Åland Islands USD $
• Albania USD $
• Algeria USD $
• Andorra USD $
• Angola USD $
• Anguilla USD $
• Antigua & Barbuda USD $
• Argentina USD $
• Armenia USD $
• Aruba USD $
• Ascension Island USD $
• Austria USD $
• Azerbaijan USD $
• Bahamas USD $
• Bahrain USD $
• Bangladesh USD $
• Barbados USD $
• Belarus USD $
• Belgium USD $
• Belize USD $
• Benin USD $
• Bermuda USD $
• Bhutan USD $
• Bolivia USD $
• Bosnia & Herzegovina USD $
• Botswana USD $
• Brazil USD $
• British Indian Ocean Territory USD $
• British Virgin Islands USD $
• Brunei USD $
• Bulgaria USD $
• Burkina Faso USD $
• Burundi USD $
• Cambodia USD $
• Cameroon USD $
• Cape Verde USD $
• Caribbean Netherlands USD $
• Cayman Islands USD $
• Central African Republic USD $
• Chile USD $
• China USD $
• Christmas Island USD $
• Cocos (Keeling) Islands USD $
• Colombia USD $
• Comoros USD $
• Congo - Brazzaville USD $
• Congo - Kinshasa USD $
• Cook Islands USD $
• Costa Rica USD $
• Côte d’Ivoire USD $
• Croatia USD $
• Curaçao USD $
• Cyprus USD $
• Czechia USD $
• Denmark USD $
• Djibouti USD $
• Dominica USD $
• Dominican Republic USD $
• Ecuador USD $
• Egypt USD $
• El Salvador USD $
• Equatorial Guinea USD $
• Eritrea USD $
• Estonia USD $
• Eswatini USD $
• Ethiopia USD $
• Falkland Islands USD $
• Faroe Islands USD $
• Finland USD $
• French Guiana USD $
• French Polynesia USD $
• French Southern Territories USD $
• Gabon USD $
• Gambia USD $
• Georgia USD $
• Germany USD $
• Ghana USD $
• Gibraltar USD $
• Greece USD $
• Greenland USD $
• Grenada USD $
• Guadeloupe USD $
• Guatemala USD $
• Guernsey USD $
• Guinea USD $
• Guinea-Bissau USD $
• Guyana USD $
• Haiti USD $
• Honduras USD $
• Hong Kong SAR USD $
• Hungary USD $
• Iceland USD $
• India USD $
• Indonesia USD $
• Ireland USD $
• Isle of Man USD $
• Israel USD $
• Italy USD $
• Jamaica USD $
• Japan USD $
• Jersey USD $
• Jordan USD $
• Kazakhstan USD $
• Kenya USD $
• Kiribati USD $
• Kosovo USD $
• Kuwait USD $
• Kyrgyzstan USD $
• Latvia USD $
• Lebanon USD $
• Lesotho USD $
• Liberia USD $
• Libya USD $
• Liechtenstein USD $
• Lithuania USD $
• Luxembourg USD $
• Macao SAR USD $
• Madagascar USD $
• Malawi USD $
• Malaysia USD $
• Maldives USD $
• Malta USD $
• Martinique USD $
• Mauritania USD $
• Mauritius USD $
• Mayotte USD $
• Mexico USD $
• Moldova USD $
• Monaco USD $
• Mongolia USD $
• Montenegro USD $
• Montserrat USD $
• Morocco USD $
• Mozambique USD $
• Myanmar (Burma) USD $
• Namibia USD $
• Nauru USD $
• Nepal USD $
• Netherlands USD $
• New Caledonia USD $
• New Zealand USD $
• Nicaragua USD $
• Niger USD $
• Nigeria USD $
• Norfolk Island USD $
• North Macedonia USD $
• Norway USD $
• Pakistan USD $
• Palestinian Territories USD $
• Panama USD $
• Papua New Guinea USD $
• Paraguay USD $
• Philippines USD $
• Pitcairn Islands USD $
• Poland USD $
• Portugal USD $
• Qatar USD $
• Réunion USD $
• Romania USD $
• Russia USD $
• Rwanda USD $
• Samoa USD $
• San Marino USD $
• São Tomé & Príncipe USD $
• Saudi Arabia USD $
• Senegal USD $
• Serbia USD $
• Seychelles USD $
• Sierra Leone USD $
• Singapore USD $
• Sint Maarten USD $
• Slovakia USD $
• Slovenia USD $
• Solomon Islands USD $
• Somalia USD $
• South Africa USD $
• South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands USD $
• South Korea USD $
• South Sudan USD $
• Spain USD $
• Sri Lanka USD $
• St. Barthélemy USD $
• St. Helena USD $
• St. Kitts & Nevis USD $
• St. Lucia USD $
• St. Martin USD $
• St. Pierre & Miquelon USD $
• St. Vincent & Grenadines USD $
• Sudan USD $
• Suriname USD $
• Svalbard & Jan Mayen USD $
• Sweden USD $
• Switzerland USD $
• Taiwan USD $
• Tajikistan USD $
• Tanzania USD $
• Thailand USD $
• Timor-Leste USD $
• Tokelau USD $
• Tonga USD $
• Trinidad & Tobago USD $
• Tristan da Cunha USD $
• Tunisia USD $
• Türkiye USD $
• Turkmenistan USD $
• Turks & Caicos Islands USD $
• Tuvalu USD $
• U.S. Outlying Islands USD $
• Uganda USD $
• Ukraine USD $
• United Arab Emirates USD $
• United Kingdom USD $
• Uruguay USD $
• Uzbekistan USD $
• Vanuatu USD $
• Vatican City USD $
• Venezuela USD $
• Vietnam USD $
• Wallis & Futuna USD $
• Western Sahara USD $
• Yemen USD $
• Zambia USD $
• Zimbabwe USD $
• X (Twitter)

Electric Boat

Save 40% during End of Summer Sale + Earn a Free Chill Cooler with purchase The ultimate family-fun and affordable boat. Elcat is a revolutionary electric boat that can take you further, faster, and with less energy. Powered by a high-performance 3HP electric motor, the Elcat consumes 90% less energy than traditional motorboats. Streamlined design allows it to effortlessly glide over the water. Carry up to 6 passengers or over 1,000 LBS. 

All Inflatable Hull made of Durable MSL (Monocoque Structural Laminate) double wall drop-stitch fusion technology, makes this boat as tough as carbon fiber but lighter. Made in Europe and CE Certified. 

WARRANTY: 1  Year Boat Hull | 2 Year Electric Motor | Optional 3 Year Accidental Damage Product Protection 

Call to ask about current models in stock. No coupons apply.  

For more info, submit an inquiry on the form below, or email  [email protected]

Couldn't load pickup availability

• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
• Opens in a new window.

• Search Used Yachts For Sale
• Search Boats By Brand
• Search Boats By Type
• Search By Location
• Search By Price
• What's My Boat Worth?
• Search Boats Just Listed
• Small Yachts
• Custom Sport Fishing Boats
• Finance A Boat
• Amer Yachts
• Aquitalia Yachts
• Cabo Yachts
• Century Boats
• French Yachts
• Gulfstream Yachts
• Hatteras Yachts
• Shelter Island Yachts
• Solaris Yachts
• Sunpower Yachts
• Sunreef Yachts
• Vela Boatworks
• Virtus Yachts
• Why List With United?
• Why Own A Boat Or Yacht?
• Custom Website For Your Yacht
• United Sold Boats
• Buy A Yacht With Crypto
• Find a Yacht Broker Near Me
• Search For Broker By Name
• Meet The United Support Team
• Our History
• Fort Lauderdale Boat Show
• Stuart Boat Show
• Miami Boat Show
• Palm Beach Boat Show
• Other Boat Shows
• Yachting News
• Yacht Closing Services
• River Forest Yachting Centers

Search All Yachts

New Silent Yachts For Sale

Silent yachts are the industry leader in ocean-going production yachts that are completely solar sustainable and powered by solar energy. seaworthy, luxurious, and built to impeccable standards, silent yachts are already desirable without its solar capabilities. with the abundance of solar panels on board each boat, every silent yachts model is able to cruise for 100 nautical miles in complete silence. even while at anchor, the solar-powered generators keep the yacht powered quietly for an unprecedented boating experience. enjoy all the benefits of a power catamaran with the addition of solar energy..

Silent Yachts

Silent Yachts 80

Silent Yachts 55

Speak To A Silent Yachts Sales Professional

Silent Yachts offer an environmentally conscious choice when it comes to owning a yacht. Silent Yachts currently offers three solar-powered power catamaran models including the Silent 55, Silent 64, and Silent 80. United Yacht Sales is proud to be the U.S. distributor for Silent Yachts and can assist you in your search for the world's first solar-powered yacht. For more information, please contact United Yacht broker Darren Sell at (561) 351-7333 or by email at [email protected] . 

Where are Silent Yachts built?

Silent Yachts are built through two different shipyards depending on the model. The Silent 55 is built at the world-class shipyard of Mazarin German Yachts which also has a production site located in China. For over 70 years, Mazarin has been a leader in quality yacht construction with over 400 yachts delivered. Mazarin are experts in innovative construction processes that are able to produce light weight yachts.

The Silent 64 and Silent 80 are produced at the Italian-based shipyard Consorzio Navale which is a prestigous consoritum of builders and sub-contractors in the industry. The group has serviced many of the major Italian yacht brands such as Ferretti Yachts and Riva Yachts . Additionally, the Silent Yachts 80 features styling and design by Marco Casali and naval architecture by Insenaval.

Are Silent Yachts really completely solar-powered?

The short answer is yes. Owners can choose to go 100% solar-powered or install diesel engines should higher speeds want to be achieved over longer distances. Silent Yachts can cruise up to 100 miles per day by power acquired through its solar panels. Every day the solar panels are able to generate more power than the total consumption needed for propulsion at cruising speeds plus powering all of the appliances on board. 

How does the solar power work? 

The Silent Yachts power system feeds the electric propulsion of the power cat and all of the energy it needs to run the A/C, refrigerators, and other household appliances. Light-weight lithium batteries provide an ample amount of energy for everything on board. The lithium batteries used in Silent Yachts are the most expensive ones on the market, but also the most reliable, safe, and have the longest life span.

Solar panels are integrated to the roof of the flybridge hardtop sections instead of just being bolted on top, resulting in no wind load or resistance againest them. Below is a video explaining how the system functions and operates back when Silent Yachts were originally called "Solar Wave":

Who is the team behind Silent Yachts?

Heike and Michael Kohler have sent almost their entire lives on a boat. After more than two decades of using various boats, cruisers, and sailboats on multiple oceans, they became dedicated to finding a better energy source for the propulsion of yachts. Between the years of 2005 and 2009, Heike and Michael tested a number of a multitude of various alternative energy sources. In 2009, SolarWave 46 was launched as a proof of concept for their design. While there are many boats and yachts built that use solar power in some fashion, the Solarwave 46 was the first ocean-going yacht to use solar energy to power everything on board from engines to appliances.

What else is different about how Silent Yachts are built?

Certainly the solar-powered engines and generators are the distinguishing characteristic, but there are a lot of other features that make each Silent Yacht unique. For example, the molds were created using a CNC-milling machine that is able to contruct particular shapes for an optimized design. The materials used in the hull include a carbon compositie that is then resin-infused for a light-weight, but very strong platform. Every hull is fully insulated and the long-term durability is exceptional thanks to the high-quality resin used in the infusion process.

What propulsion systems are recommended by Silent Yachts?

Silent Yachts recommends the 2 x 135 engines as the best solution. If the owner is making frequest trips from Point A to B (Say Miami to the Bahamas for example) the faster hybrid is recommended. The main differentiator here is cruising speed. If the owner is living on the yacht for an extended period of time, rarely pushes the engines to top speeds, and stays below 12 knots, then the E-Power is recommended.

When the generator is running, does the 100Kw go to charging the batteries (which run the 250 Kw e-Motors) or directly to the e-Motors?

All of the enery consumers and producers are connected to the bus bar. If there happens to be more power produced than consumed, the excess power goes to re-charge the batteries. If for some reason more power is required than what is produced, the needed power comes from the lithium batteries.

What is the sustained speed if both 100 Kw generators are running?

This answer really depends upon sea condition and the weight of the boat (for example components, additional equipment, water toys, etc.). The sustained speed on average though is between 12 and 14 knots, 10 knots with one generator running. It is possible to cruise at 10 knots without a generator running when using the Solar E-Power.

Worldwide Yacht Sales

• Million Dollar Yachts For Sale
• 6 Million Dollar Yacht
• Hiring A Luxury Boat Captain
• Boat Sales Charleston SC
• Used Boats For Sale in Alabama
• Bay Boats For Sale in Corpus Christi Texas
• Yacht Search By Location
• Boat Sales Massachusetts
• Used Boats For Sale Stuart Florida
• Yachts For Sale in Georgia

Luxury Boats & Yachts

• Center Consol Boats For Sale
• 2 Million Dollar Boat
• Broward Yachts
• Hinckley Boats For Sale
• Sabre 42 For Sale
• Yachts For Sale by Price
• Yacht For Sale USA
• Ocean Yachts For Sale
• Sailboats For Sale Texas

Popular Builders & Models

• Back Cove Boats For Sale
• Small Tug Boats For Sale
• 40 Sea Ray Sundancer
• Grand Banks Trawler
• Catamaran Boat For Sale
• Sea Ray 58 Sedan Bridge For Sale
• Express Cruiser For Sale
• Fast Boats For Sale
• Sea Ray 460 Sundancer For Sale
• Bavaria Yachts

Trending Brands & Types

• Luhrs Boats
• Bayliss Yachts For Sale
• Nordhaven Yachts
• Jarrett Bay Grander
• Silverton For Sale
• Vanquish VQ32 For Sale
• Used Boston Whaler For Sale
• Regal Boats Prices
• Hcb Yachts For Sale
• Hatteras Motor Yacht
• Carver Yachts For Sale
• Tartan Sailboats For Sale
• Buddy Davis For Sale

Practical Boat Owner

• Digital edition

How I converted my 8m catamaran to run off solar power alone

• Simon Milward
• July 21, 2022

The expansive deck of an 8m Catalac catamaran proves to be a huge asset for Simon Milward’s solar electric propulsion project

Electric motoring into Whitehills, showing the fixed solar panels and motor on the port transom

I’ve always been environmentally conscious and with an increasing concern about climate change, converting my new-to-me sailboat to fully electric propulsion was an idea that just wouldn’t leave my mind.

Added to this I used to run a small solar panel company and seven years ago was awarded the Guinness World Record for the fastest solar-powered crossing of the English Channel [Full story coming soon – Ed.]

This was on Dart 15 beach catamaran hulls covered in over 100kg of rigid solar panels connected directly to electric motors with no heavy batteries to slow it down.

Simon passing out of the Traffic Separation Scheme on his record breaking cross channel run in a somewhat smaller catamaran

Boat choice

When I was able to buy my first proper sailing boat for our family three years ago it made sense to try to go electric as quickly as possible.

I was a bit disappointed at how long this took. Nevertheless, apart from a little bit at the start of last summer, I’ve now been fully electric for nearly a year.

Article continues below…

How much sunlight can you expect to reach a boat’s solar panels?

This might sound impossible, but in fact it’s easier than you think, thanks to some handy scientific data published online…

Boat solar panels: Everything you need to know to get started

Want to add solar panels to your boat, or wonder how to make the most of those you already have?…

I hope that by sharing my experience, particularly of the advantages of solar-powered electric motors , I can help others work out what could be best for them and help them achieve that as quickly, easily and economically as possible.

Our boat Chateau Cat is a ‘3-tonne’ 8m Catalac and weighs around four tonnes fully loaded. The crew mainly consists of my wife and our three children. My dad and brother also sometimes swap in and out, particularly for longer passages like crossing to and from The Netherlands.

As the world record passage showed, catamarans are a justifiably popular choice for solar electrification on account of the large deck area, perfect for mounting multiple solar panels. The normal engine set up for an 8m Catalac is either a centrally mounted 9.9hp outboard or twin inboard diesels, one in each hull.

Chateau Cat employs a mixture of fixed and moveable solar panels

I bought one with an outboard thinking that would be easier to convert, although in reality it has not made a difference as I’ve mainly used an outboard bracket mounted on the port transom (sometimes supplemented with another electric outboard on the starboard transom).

In fact, in many ways I may have preferred the opportunity to easily convert to inboard electric engines.

First steps

I started off three years ago with one 800W 24V and one 400W 12V Torqeedo motor, both second-hand. These were around five years old and I ran them off three 110Ah 12V lead acid leisure batteries (two in series for the 800W motor and a single one for the 400W).

Electric outboard mounted on the port transom

Together this gave the equivalent of a normal 3hp motor. Not very much for a 4-tonne catamaran although I reassured myself there should be lots of ‘torque’.

For charging I had seven 110W semi-flexible boat solar panels permanently mounted on plywood panels fixed above the doghouse under the boom and up to 12 more 110W roving panels that could be moved around the boat to wherever there was most sun.

I figured this amount of solar would be plenty for all my needs and much lighter than rigid panels. I could then upgrade motors and batteries once I knew what I’d need.

Chateau Cat ’s 19 110W solar panels laid out

Frying motors

Within the first week I’d cooked the 800W Torqeedo’s circuit board by running it for long periods on full power.  I bought a second-hand replacement shaft and bulb for it which my dad brought down when he met us in Studland Bay.

This worked quite well for the next three weeks with careful use and we did a number of trips along the south coast and over to France without using the backup petrol motor until the replacement also cooked when running constantly on low power overnight going from Boulogne to Ramsgate.

While rather disappointed, I’d learned a lot from this first year. I had plenty of solar power and just needed more reliable (and preferably more powerful) motors and also a bigger battery.

‘I had plenty of solar power – I just needed more reliable and powerful motors’

The problem is motors are expensive. So I looked for second-hand electric outboards throughout the winter. I ended up only finding another 800W Torqeedo, but my dad did manage to resurrect one of the other 800W Torqeedos by wiring up an external controller.

And I also managed to get a 24V (18.5-25.2V) 5.3kWh lithium-ion Tesla battery from a crashed Model S Tesla (via eBay). This weighs only around 30kg but has about four times the capacity of each 110Ah 12V lead acid battery and about seven times the regularly usable capacity.

Battery care

I’ve since had lots of advice that lithium-ion batteries can go into thermal runaway and combust if overcharged, corroded by salt water or punctured. I’m therefore very careful with mine. I keep it in a waterproof box within a dry locker and am very careful not to overcharge it.

Arm attaches the motor to the rudder, aiding manoeuvrability

Still, when I buy a new battery I’ll probably choose a LiFePO4 lithium battery that has similar energy density but is less prone to thermal runaway and that would give me a bit more peace of mind.

Over the winter I also fitted a rigid 220W 24V solar panel to davits at the back of the boat (one of the panels I’d originally used to win the Guinness World Record). This was because I’d found it much more convenient to have permanently mounted panels than to have to securely rig the movable panels while sailing.

The next year, despite Covid regulations, we were able to sail to Denmark via the Frisian Islands. I now had two 800W Torqeedos powered by a 5.3kWh Tesla battery and a 400W Torqeedo (with 12V leisure battery) in reserve. I was using up to 660W of fixed solar panels and had many more movable ones.

Solar panels mounted on boards are ‘portable’ to be set up wherever the sun is strongest

Unfortunately I cooked one of the 800W motors leaving Lowestoft, speeding to make an ad hoc early morning opening of the lifting bridge. But I then continued for the rest of the holiday experimenting further with my 400W connected to a leisure battery and running the 800W (generally not past half power) off the Tesla Battery.

I never ran short of battery power given that the 5.3kWh Tesla can output 400W for over 12 hours and I never needed to use the movable solar panels as the fixed panels gave plenty of solar charging for such small motors.

I also learned that just 200-400W of electric motor allowed us to sail around 10° closer to the wind in Force 3-4 – and helped even more in lighter winds.

The 2kW electric motor is fixed in the ahead position when motoring out at sea

This was because it reduced our side-slip. It also helped us move around a knot faster in light winds, which was particularly useful when crossing shipping lanes and making tidal windows when sailing between the islands.

Nevertheless, we still often used the 9.9hp petrol motor, particularly in the strong currents around the islands, although, when entering the Thames Estuary after crossing back from Holland to England in a northerly gale, I also found the limit of the petrol motor when even at full power we couldn’t make headway into a wind of about 30 knots and rough seas.

We eventually ended up sailing in through a southern channel as the wind continued to ease.

Maturing technology

After our second season we now had plenty of solar panels and quite a lot of battery storage. But we clearly needed more powerful, reliable motors. Over the next winter I scoured websites for second-hand electric outboards. I didn’t find any and ended up buying a new 2kW 24V Torqeedo, said to be equivalent to about 5hp.

This was by far the most expensive part of my setup. But I was pretty confident it would be worth it and hoped I wouldn’t need to use the petrol motor ever again.

For this third summer I kept the 220W of fixed rigid solar panel mounted on the davits and the 440W of fixed flexible solar panels mounted under the boom on the dog house. I still had up to 1,320W of moveable, flexible, solar panels and planned to use these when needed.

Cheateau Cat ‘s Tesla battery cells

I attached my new 2kW 24V motor to the 5.3kWh Tesla battery and mounted it on the port transom so that I could either attach it via an arm to the rudder to aid manoeuvrability or fix it in a straight ahead position when out at sea.

I also had the remaining 800W 24V motor but I didn’t attach this immediately as I thought I might not need it.

Range anxiety

Our first passage started at 0400 in the dark, electric motoring out of Swale into the Thames Estuary, heading for Pin Mill. As dawn broke the wind picked up and we started sailing. But when the wind dropped off in the middle of the day I boosted our speed using the electric motor.

Chateau Cat is used as a family cruising yacht

However, I had quite a lot of range anxiety doing this as at 1,000W I would only have about four hours of running time and I was very worried about going down even to 50% charge.

Fortunately the wind picked up in the afternoon and we ended up making good time to Felixstowe, only using the electric motor again for the last few miles up the Orwell to Pin Mill. We ended with about 25% charge in the battery.

And the new 2kW Torqeedo was a joy to use, particularly compared to the older Torqeedos. Our ground speed, voltage and power drain were all shown clearly on the remote throttle. The control, particularly at low power, was amazing. Still, I thought, they should be pretty good given how much they cost.

We solar recharged the batteries for a couple of days at Pin Mill but couldn’t wait around for long because we were meeting my wife in Newcastle in just over a week.

Nauseous re-routing

So we set off towards Newcastle one evening. After about 18 hours the wind and waves picked up off the north coast of Norfolk and the children started feeling sick. I was all for continuing up towards the Humber, but my dad was concerned for his grandchildren so we headed into the wind for Wells-next-the-Sea.

We still had plenty of battery charge. However, given the children’s sickness and my dad’s complaints, I used the petrol motor to get us there more quickly and started to wonder if the electric motor was going to be worth it.

We recharged for a few days in Wells, waiting for good winds to go to Newcastle. I also put the 800W motor in place. Late one evening everything looked good and near the end of a rising tide we electric-motored out and across the bar. The wind was forecast to pick up later that night and be good for a couple of days.

We kept using the 2kW electric motor until night fell and the wind picked up. We then alternated between sailing and using the 2kW motor on low power for the next 32 hours, particularly benefitting from using the motor to cross the shipping lanes coming out of Middlesbrough and Sunderland when the winds dropped during the second night.

As dawn broke after the second night, the electric motor helped us stay close enough to the wind to sail right up to the entrance of Newcastle harbour. Just as the sun was rising I took the sails down and we electric-motored into the wind and the lightly ebbing tide to anchor off South Shields beach.

As I tidied up, a fisherman checking his pots came by and asked if we wanted to buy any fresh crabs. He seemed a bit nonplussed when I declined, excusing myself by explaining I was trying to become a vegetarian. Maybe it was my accent.

This extended trip had proved to be an informative fact finder, and I was able to bank the following useful information:

• In calm seas, with little wind we could make: 2 knots with 400W, 3 knots with 800W and 4 knots with 1,500W. Subsequently, I now know on a dead calm surface we can make 5 knots with 2,500W.
• A 10 knot adverse apparent wind slows us down by about 1 knot.
• Smooth seas vs calm reduces speed by about 25%.\
• 400W of motor when close-hauled in light winds and slight or smooth sea enables us to sail around 10° closer to the wind and adds 1-1.5 knots of speed up to about 4 knots.

In Newcastle we swapped my dad for my 5-months-pregnant wife and the four and a half of us set off for Holy Island. Here I started to appreciate how the electric motor could really help us to speed up our passage.

We started at about 0130 with almost no wind so kept the electric motor on for the first few hours. Winds stayed quite light throughout the day and when we seemed at risk of missing the tide and getting a strong adverse current past the Inner Farne Islands, I turned on the electric motor for a few hours to make sure we would make the window.

We were at less than 50% capacity in the Tesla battery. But by now I was quite happy because I knew I wouldn’t need more than that 50% charge to get to Holy Island and also the sun was out meaning we were charging the batteries at 150-300W (although of course knowing I had the backup of the petrol motor also helped).

The electric motor is almost silent and turns on or off simply by pushing the throttle. Somehow, by not having to start it, having almost no sound or vibration, no fumes and knowing you’re not producing CO2 and using up petrol that’s going to need to be replaced, this means you don’t disrupt the equanimity of sailing. I therefore felt much happier to turn it on at low power to give that extra push.

We ended up making the tide window and as we passed the Inner Farne Islands the wind picked up. For the final entry into the harbour I took the sails down and used the electric motor to head dead into a wind gusting to 20 knots. At 1,500W of power, in calm seas we still made about 2.5 knots.

We continued in a similar way to Inverness via Stonehaven, Peterhead and Whitehills. I became better and better at using the electric motor to make tide windows and we passed Rattray Head at exactly slack water.

However, my wife – by now 6 months pregnant – still felt sick in the swell and ended up taking the bus from Whitehills to Inverness with the children the next day. This meant I did the final 70 miles from Whitehills to Inverness solo, seeing dolphins on the way and even the distant tail of a whale.

At Inverness we entered the Caledonian Canal and crossed through the whole length to Fort William, using only the electric motors, as well as sailing on some of the larger lochs.

Silent propulsion makes it easier to get close to marine mammals without spooking them

Near the end of the holiday we went back up the canal to moor for the winter. At dawn on Loch Lochy, with no wind and flat water, I maxed out the 2kW engine (which actually runs at up to about 2.1kW) and also ran the 800W engine at about 400W. We made 5 knots under electric power only.

At the end of the holiday I realised I’d fully weaned myself off the petrol motor and decided that two of the 2kW engines (effectively 10hp) would be perfect, particularly alongside 880W of fixed panels, 440W of moveable panels and twice my current 5.3kWh battery capacity.

For this summer I’ll put in place the 880W fixed solar panels and keep the 440W of moveable panels. I’m also keeping a look out for another 2kW engine. Although if I don’t get one I think I’ll be quite happy just to continue this year with my total of about 2,800W.

I will also get more batteries at some point, probably LiFePO4. But given the price is falling every year and the energy density increasing (I’ve heard by an average of around 8% per year).

I think I’ll hold off another year – especially as this year we’ll probably just be pottering around the Hebrides with our new baby. But then next year I’m hoping to sail to the Faroe Islands …

How electric motors changed my life

• For me I don’t think I’ll ever need to use petrol power again and certainly wouldn’t ever renew the current petrol engine. It helps to have a catamaran to cover with solar panels but I think a monohull of similar weight could quite easily accommodate my ideal of 880W fixed and 440W moveable panels.
• Because it’s so easy and pleasant to use and it helps us to sail closer to the wind and faster in light winds, having an electric motor makes it easier to make tide windows and ultimately significantly reduces our transit times and increases our enjoyment.
• Getting stuck in irons when going about, always a concern with a cruising cat, is now a distant memory. I even got quite close to hitting rocks tacking into Helford passage when I first bought Chateau Cat. A small burst of push button power is all that’s needed now to help her round. It’s so much easier than getting an internal combustion engine started and into gear.
• For me, it’s been really useful to have the back-up of the petrol motor while making this transition. I’m sure you could move straight to electric from a normal combustion engine – and ever more examples of people doing this will help. However, for me, to get to the right size of motors, panels and batteries and push through my range anxiety, it has really helped to do this incrementally, while having the peace of mind of a back-up fossil fuel motor just in case.
• The potential range under power, at a reasonable speed, has significantly decreased versus internal combustion engines (although with the solar charging, I could probably travel at approximately 1 knot perpetually).
• If I started again I’d consider choosing a boat with an inboard motor and also be likely to go for a 48V system with LiFePo batteries.

Why not subscribe today?

This feature appeared in the Summer 2022 edition of Practical Boat Owner . For more articles like this, including DIY, money-saving advice, great boat projects, expert tips and ways to improve your boat’s performance, take out a magazine subscription to Britain’s best-selling boating magazine.

Subscribe, or make a gift for someone else, and you’ll always save at least 30% compared to newsstand prices.

See the latest PBO subscription deals on magazinesdirect.com

• FOREIGN POLICY
• DOMESTIC POLICY
• World World Into section →
• Oil & gas industry
• Internet & Telecom
• Trade & Cooperation
• Military & Defense Military & Defense Into section →
• Science & Space Science & Space Into section →
• Emergencies Emergencies Into section →
• Society & Culture Society & Culture Into section →
• Press Review Press Review Into section →
• Sports Sports Into section →
• Special projects
• NEWS TERMINAL
• Personal data processing policy TASS
• Press Releases
• Privacy Policy​ tass.com
• Terms of use
• ANTI-Corruption
• Advertising

Russian adventurer set for solo ocean crossing aboard solar-powered catamaran

MOSCOW, September 26. /TASS/. Fyodor Konyukhov is planning a Pacific Ocean crossing on board a solar-powered catamaran for the first time in history, according to a press release on the official website of the Russian traveler, writer and artist.

"Between 2023 and 2024, Konyukhov plans to attempt the first solo crossing of the Pacific Ocean aboard a solar-powered catamaran, the NOVA. Part of project NOVA is the construction of an 11m ocean-class catamaran equipped with electric motors and flexible solar modules," the press release reads.

In the first stage of the expedition, the adventurer plans to cross the Atlantic Ocean from the Canary Islands to islands in the Caribbean Sea, while the second stage will entail the mariner’s Pacific crossing from Chile to Australia. Konyukhov will keep a video diary and make environmental observations of the ocean during his trip, in which he will note the presence or absence of plastic waste in the ocean on a daily basis. He will collect materials for subsequent analysis.

Konyukhov is an absolute world champion who performed the fastest-ever round-the-world balloon flight. He was awarded the Pilot of the Year prize by the World Air Sports Federation (FAI) in 2016 for that solo balloon flight. Additionally, he set two world records for the duration of a balloon flight with a co-pilot, Ivan Menyaylo, while training for a round-the-world expedition, as they flew first 32 hours and then 55 hours non-stop in a hot air balloon.

• Crown Signia
• Grand Highlander
• Land Cruiser
• Concept Vehicles
• Historic Vehicles
• 2025 Toyota 4Runner
• CALTY 50th Anniversary
• 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser
• 2024 Toyota Tacoma
• New Product Showcase
• Los Angeles
• Global Shows
• What’s New for 2025
• What’s New for 2024
• What’s New for 2023
• What’s New for 2022
• Images & Videos
• Latest News
• Sales & Financial
• Voluntary Recalls
• Takata Info
• Environmental
• Community Engagement
• Diversity & Inclusion
• Finance, Insurance & Banking
• Advanced Technology
• Research & Development
• Safety Technology
• Motorsports
• Company History
• Executive Bios
• Media Contacts
• Takata Recall

Home > Innovation  >  Mobility

How Energy Observer Set Sail with a Toyota Fuel Cell

What an Around-the-World Experimental Ocean Voyage Taught the World About Hydrogen

Five years ago, Toyota answered a call inquiring about its hydrogen-powered fuel cell technology from Energy Observer, an experimental ocean-going catamaran with a mission to circle the globe using only renewable energy. Thoughtfully built as the first hydrogen-powered, zero-emission vessel to be self-sufficient in energy, Energy Observer’s mission was to advocate and serve as a laboratory to raise awareness of renewable energy technologies available now for society’s ecological transition.

Though Energy Observer had used a hydrogen fuel cell stack from the onset, the captain, Victorien Erussard, was interested in technology upgrades as they became available. He learned that Toyota was offering a commercially available hydrogen-powered fuel-cell stack. Erussard thought that Toyota, with its reputation for making reliable and affordable cars, might have a product that could withstand the roughest conditions of the ocean. He placed a call and soon found an audience with Toyota Motor Europe (TME), kicking off discussions.

Toyota has long been exploring carbon-reducing and carbon-neutrality mobility solutions, and hydrogen-powered fuel cells are a part of its multi-pathway strategy. Toyota introduced the world to its first mass-produced hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric vehicle, the Mirai, in 2014, and the company had been discussing applications of the technology beyond cars. For Toyota, Energy Observer was an exciting opportunity to demonstrate the scalability of the fuel-cell stacks Toyota developed for the Mirai, said Luc Vercauteren, a powertrain project leader at Toyota Motor Europe.

“I was immediately struck by the adventure of it,” Vercauteren said. “Toyota has ambitions to get to zero emissions. The fact that this ship was going to tour the world was a great way to get that point across.”

Already, the versatile technology had been scaled and used globally in commercial vehicles, such as trucks and buses, and even in non-automotive applications, such as stationary power units – and now, with the help of Energy Observer, Toyota went to sea.

Not that there weren’t challenges.

As a literal floating test bed of different technologies that includes solar and wind energy capture, hydroelectric generation, and hydrogen fuel cell technology, space is at a premium on Energy Observer.

OVERCOMING OBSTACLES The Energy Observer vessel began life as a sail-powered racing catamaran. It has a cabin suspended between two large pontoon-like hulls. Different parts of the boat are connected by netting that the crew walks on to get around. It’s an extremely lightweight and efficient design ideal to use a minimum amount of energy. But it doesn’t leave a lot of extra space for equipment.

When the Toyota team went to see the space for the fuel-cell stack, they found a tiny compartment inside one of the ship’s racing hulls that was housing a washing machine. The hull wasn’t strong enough to hold a stack weighing more than 500 pounds. Systems that were originally designed to be spread around the Mirai passenger vehicle’s frame had to be repackaged into a cube-like shape fit to the exact specifications of the space. Even after that, there was no way to squeeze the stack through a tiny cargo door.

Soon, the fuel-cell stack was retrofitted by TME’s Technical Center Europe team and repackaged to withstand the challenges of an ocean environment — protected from the ravages of salty air and seawater. To install it, the boat crew had to cut a hole into the hull and would later have to patch it back together after the system was installed and working.

It’s a tight fit for the Toyota fuel cell system underneath the deck of Energy Observer. Toyota Motor Europe engineers needed to reconfigure the fuel cell system to fit in the small space allotted.

To get fresh water and air needed for the fuel cells to generate electricity, Energy Observer used other key onboard components. Fresh water was provided through a reverse-osmosis desalination system. An electrolyzer produced pure hydrogen from the fresh water using electrolysis, based on electricity provided by the other renewable energy sources, including solar and wind. For the pure air needed to power the fuel cell, they needed a filter as well.

“They made sure the space was pressurized,” Vercauteren said. “The unit needs air to operate. Air comes through a desalination filter. The salt is separated from the air and filtered after that. Then the module can breathe.”

All energy sources collectively worked together to make all of the Energy Observer’s systems operate at any given time. Aside from the solar energy provided by the panels (top), the battery and hydrogen storage (bottom) could be used at any given time, especially in instances such as nighttime when solar power isn’t available.

Toyota’s fuel cells worked in tandem with the Energy Observer’s other energy sources. The produced hydrogen is stored in pressurized tanks during the daytime when there is excess electricity from solar and wind. According to Energy Observer’s website , the double storage of batteries and hydrogen complement each other. The batteries provide short term immediate power, while the hydrogen provides long-term autonomy. At night or in poor weather conditions, the hydrogen could feed the fuel cells to provide the electricity needed to operate the vessel.

Once the system installation and testing were complete, Energy Observer, equipped with the Toyota fuel cell stack, set off again in February 2020 to continue its mission and circle the globe – more than once!

After 7 years and 68,000 nautical miles of adventure, Energy Observer made it back to its home port in Saint-Malo, France.

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED Energy Observer recently made it back to its home port in Saint-Malo, France, after sailing for seven years, and a total of 68,000 nautical miles . The floating energy lab is anchored in Paris for the summer. The Energy Observer team will continue its work there, providing opportunities to share their experiences by talking about the lessons they learned from circumnavigating the world with hydrogen, solar and wind power with the expected crowds.

Through its voyages, Energy Observer demonstrated the immense advantage that hydrogen can have over batteries, especially in applications where weight is a factor. The on-board lithium-ion battery set weights 1,400-kg (approx. 3,085 lbs.) for 112-kWh of electricity, while the hydrogen storage and fuel cell together weigh a total of 1,700-kg (approx. 3,745 lbs.) for 1,000-kWh. Translated, this means that 1-kWh weighs 12.5-kg when stored in batteries vs only 1.7-kg when stored as hydrogen. In other words, for equal weight, the hydrogen storage contains 7.35 times more power than the on-board lithium-ion batteries, a considerable advantage for mobility, especially in a maritime application.

Based on their experience with this and other applications, both Toyota and Energy Observer agree that fuel cell technology should be applied to help make environmental progress in places that makes sense across society, since it is a proven way to help reduce carbon dioxide emissions that contribute to climate change.

“When I joined Energy Observer, I was curious to know how those high technologies would age at sea,” said Beatrice Cordiano, a scientist and crew member. “I was surprised to see after seven years of the project how well those technologies worked as they faced challenges across the seas all around the world.”

Fuel cells weren’t the only technology being tested in the harsh ocean-going conditions. Solar panels cover almost the entire top deck of Energy Observer.

Energy Observer had set out on a mission to prove that solar, wind and hydrogen could power an ocean-going vessel in a harsh environment – and it worked. The boat, covered in solar panels, was also a testing platform for unique high-tech sail, called Oceanwings, which are now being adopted by numerous long-distance ships.

Now that Energy Observer has proven the technologies can stand up to the rigors of open-ocean travel, the team is setting its sights on larger ambitions. They recently announced plans for Energy Observer 2, what they claim as the world’s first cargo ship powered by liquid hydrogen set to launch in 2029. The plans call for a vessel 160 meters long weighing 1,100 metric tons. Its goal is to operate for 25 years, hauling containers along the Atlantic on 14-day, 1,600-mile cycles. It would demonstrate a solution for the U.N. International Maritime Organization’s goal of halving greenhouse-gas emissions from ocean-faring cargo ships by 2050. These ships currently consume an estimated 250 million to 300 million tons of diesel-based fuel a year, with an annual 1.1 billion tons of CO2 emissions.

Toyota remains in discussions with Energy Observer on future projects, but the collaboration thus far has proven that fuel cell technology has untapped potential in maritime applications. Toyota continues to have discussions with other maritime operators about hydrogen ocean vessels and will continue to explore ways in which fuel cell technology can support carbon emission reduction in various industries.

“Toyota is about much more than cars now,” Vercauteren said. “Hydrogen fits very well into our mobility mission. It allows us to diversify into many different low-carbon applications.”

– Story by Jeff Plungis

Originally published August 27, 2024

Related Stories

Four Reasons Why You Should Subscribe to Newsroom Connection

FuelCell Energy and Toyota Motor North America Celebrate Launch of World’s First ‘Tri-gen’ Production System at the Port of Long Beach

Toyota Establishes Hydrogen Headquarters to Accelerate Advancement of Fuel Cell Technology

Email sign up.

Enter your email address below to sign up for email alerts.

* Indicates Required

Thank you for subscribing. Please check your email to validate your sign up.

You are already subscribed, your mailing lists have been updated.

Copyright Notice

All materials on this site are for editorial use only. The use of these materials for advertising, marketing or any other commercial purpose is prohibited. They may be cropped but not otherwise modified. To download these materials, you must agree to abide by these terms.