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The Revolutionary Electric Catamarans Introduce Zero Emission Cruising

With greater awareness about pollution, sustainable and emission reduction practices have become increasingly salient in the maritime industry. The International Maritime Organization envisions a reduction in CO2 emissions by 40 percent by 2030 across international shipping to combat climate change.

The nautical sector has found a promising solution with the invention of electric catamarans. These vessels are powered by electrical energy, offering a more ecological, energy efficient, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cruising.

Making The Switch to Electric Catamarans

Electric catamarans are propelled by electric motors that draw power stored in lithium-ion batteries. These massive batteries are replenished by solar panels, wind turbines, hydrogenators, or a combination of all, allowing electric catamarans to ply oceans with an extended range.

Sunreef Yachts Eco remains at the forefront of eco-friendly responsible yachting with their electric sailing and power catamarans . The shipyard has made impressive strides in pursuing green energy generation for sailing the blue waters, including the installation of battery banks of the future and utilization of renewable energies.

What Makes Electric Catamarans Convenient?

1.  questing for unpolluted waters.

Did you know that one litre of oil is capable of polluting one million litres of water ? What is more is that catastrophic oil spills only account for five percent of the total water pollution, the rest of the major chunk is avowed against engine emissions, oil leaks, and refueling from waterborne vessels. This oil contains hydrocarbons and heavy metals that damage the aquatic environment and adversely affects human health.

To avoid contamination, eco-conscious yacht builders and manufacturers, like Sunreef Yachts Eco, have launched electric catamarans that are less likely to harm wildlife or water users. With electric catamarans, there are no risks associated with spilling fuel as they need not make their way to an oil pump for replenishing.

Apart from rising concerns of water pollution, the traditional marine outboard engines are also known to have detrimental effects on marine wildlife due to the noises generated. This noise impacts breeding cycles, hinders navigation of partially sighted animals, and prevents fishes from hearing their predators. As counterparts, electric engines boast quieter operations, thus minimizing adverse effects on wildlife and making the voyages more pleasurable for yachting enthusiasts.

2.  Greater Environmental Sustainability

An electric catamaran’s engine contributes significantly to a reduced carbon footprint that combats climate change effectively without releasing exorbitant levels of toxic pollutants, such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides, which deteriorate air quality.

3.  Energy Efficiency

Electric propulsion systems tend to be more energy efficient than the traditional internal combustion engines. This is because the extraction of fossil fuels from deep within the Earth, refinement, transportation via great distances, and distribution to oil pumps, accounts for a staggeringly high consumption of energy.

Additionally, the overall energy efficiency of a diesel engine is often capped at 40 percent; the rest of the 60 percent is lost in the name of heat and friction. On the other hand, electric catamarans can be charged directly from the grid, providing renewable electricity, to be more environmentally friendly. This accounts for lower operating costs overall.

Sunreef Yachts Eco employs the latest in yacht building technology to ensure efficient power distribution and hull form. The lightweight hull of our electric catamarans guarantees instant power with little to no drag, resulting in least possible wasted energy.

4.  Lower Maintenance Cost

Electric catamarans require relatively lesser maintenance as they boast fewer moving parts that use low friction magnetic field for operations and experience close to zero vibrations compared to internal combustion engines. They eliminate the need for winterization maintenance, oil changes, and filter, gaskets, or impeller replacements.

Alongside this, replacing greenhouse gas emitters, such as petrol and diesel, is certainly more economical. This also accounts for electric catamarans having a greater resale value on the market.

Understanding The Role of Marine Batteries 

The primary reason why consumers avoided plowing waters with electric catamarans back in the day was the limited range that made variable sea states hazardous. What made the situation worse was their slow charging abilities at limited marinas around the world.

However, the electric catamarans of today offer smooth and silent operations, excellent maneuverability, and emission-free functioning. Additionally, they have torque from the second their shaft is engaged, enabling them to accelerate faster than conventional internal combustion engines.

Sunreef Yachts Eco envisions a more carbon neutral future for its catamarans. But apart from reducing emissions, the shipyard is also determined to find ways to significantly improve performance, range, and comfort onboard.

The Batteries on Sunreef’s Electric Catamarans

Sunreef Yachts Eco fully electric catamarans are equipped with custom engineered marine battery banks that offer prolonged battery life and more power despite compact size and optimized weight. With a density below 5.2kgs per kWh, these lithium-ion battery packs are recognized as 30 percent lighter than standard battery systems used worldwide. The reduced weight of the battery accounts for lesser drag, which translates to reduced energy being consumed by propulsion.

Additionally, the battery size is also smaller, leaving more room in the hulls to expand on living space. The ability to charge the batteries of this electric catamaran in harbors across the world, regardless of the voltage, adds a unique level of versatility and convenience for cruising.

It is important to note that Sunreef Yachts Eco equips each model within its range with custom marine lithium battery banks, scaling between 400 to 700V with pack sizes extending up to 1MW. Their capacity allows for nearly two days of air conditioning and house appliances use. These are fast charging, long-lasting batteries with a lifespan of up to 10 years; but even after years of service, 80 percent of the original capacity is maintained.

The Utilization of Renewable Energy on Yachts

Energy regeneration onboard an electric catamaran allows them to have an unlimited range without relying on external fuel sources, making them fully self-sustaining. Installing a clean green energy production to the catamaran’s existing battery pack makes it far easier to run the essential electric components onboard.

Renewable energy produces no GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions despite powering the world’s growing fleet of electric catamarans. To protect the oceans, here are the three major renewable energy types that can be harnessed onboard an electric catamaran:

1.  Solar Power 

The utilization of solar energy on electric catamarans has proven to be a significant step in decreasing the consumption of environmentally damaging fossil fuels such as gasoline. Sunreef Yachts Eco has successfully produced its in-house engineered, patent pending technology, solar panels that can be fully integrated into the composite bodywork of the electric catamaran. The energy produced is stored in lithium-ion batteries.

These are the industry’s lightest solar panels, that can be mounted on the superstructure, hull, or mast, for maximum power generation. In general, multihulls offer a more stable platform for accommodating a large solar array in comparison to monohulls.

2.  Marine Wind Turbines

Marine wind turbines (also known as wind generators or wind chargers) are mounted atop catamarans to maximize the conversion of kinetic energy of air in motion to electricity. This in turn keeps the battery banks charged in the absence of solar power; hence playing a vital role in the energy mix of electric catamarans.

It is generally a stable source of power throughout the day, regardless of whether the vessel is docked or under navigation. That being the case, the more wind pressure the catamaran encounters, the more power the turbines produce. Overall, wind turbines significantly reduce operational costs by minimizing fuel consumption.

3.  Hydro Generation 

Hydro generation allows you to create power whilst sailing in an electric catamaran. Simply put, harvesting the momentum of waves converts kinetic energy into electrical energy, which can later be fed into batteries to supply electricity to the ship.

Sunreef Yachts Eco redesigned their sailing catamarans to draw power from the energy of waves rather than fossil fuels. Because regeneration can even come from the free spinning of propellers when the boat is under sail, it proves to be a viable method for procuring clean, green energy. Additionally, it has proven to be highly efficient on electric catamarans produced by the shipyard as the electric power can be recovered from two engines.

How Innovative is Sunreef Yachts Eco?

During recent years, the Polish shipyard , Sunreef Yachts Eco has grown increasingly aware of the urgency of protecting the environment. Our research and development team has launched ground-breaking inventions in the yachting industry with greener tech, efficient design, and cleaner manufacturing processes.

Air Conditioning

For starters, electric catamarans from Sunreef Yachts Eco are the only ones to boast an energy-saving, gas-based air conditioning system, providing notable energy efficiency for a sustainable yachting experience.

This system consumes 70 percent less energy than the standard air conditioning system. Not only is it capable of running on batteries throughout the night to guarantee a peaceful sleep onboard, but also provides top-notch humidity control in tropical regions.

Smart Water Management

Because freshwater generation is crucial for sustainable cruising, Sunreef Yachts Eco installs advanced water purification systems and highly efficient watermakers onboard electric catamarans. This guarantees unlimited access to clean water which reduces the need for plastic bottles onboard.

Another ongoing project by the research and development team at Sunreef Yachts Eco is the Zero Cat , a 90 feet catamaran with unique clean, green power generation capabilities.  This superyacht ’s fuel cell system will convert methanol to hydrogen onboard for zero-emissions cruising.

Sunreef Yachts Eco also aims to be the first shipyard to incorporate hydrogen on its electric catamarans as a substitute to conventional energy. Combining hydrogen power with electric propulsion would enable the 80 feet sailing catamaran to achieve unrivalled autonomy for eco-conscious cruising as it powers both onboard appliances and engines.

Future Plans

The idea encapsulated here is to continue making sailing more accessible for people around the world, but with minimal impact on seas and oceans. Sunreef Yachts Eco aims to commission 40 electric catamarans in 2024 that embrace latest propulsion technologies such as electric motors, advanced lithium-ion battery chemistries, and regeneration capabilities that rely heavily on renewable sources of energy to help protect the planet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who makes electric catamarans.

Sunreef Yachts Eco is the world’s leading designer and manufacturer of electric catamarans, including both sailing and power multihulls. The shipyard is largely known for its production of bespoke luxury catamarans, stretching between 30 to 164 feet.

What is the range of the electric catamaran?

Sunreef Yachts Eco electric catamarans boast an unlimited range under favorable and sunny weather conditions. They are easily maneuvered, seaworthy vessels, with impeccable buoyancy even in rough seas. Featuring a mix of eco-energies, our electric catamarans also prove to be self-sustaining for extended periods of time.

Are there any electric powered catamarans?

In recent years, Sunreef Yachts Eco has launched several electric catamarans, powered by renewable energies for minimum ecological footprint. Furthermore, the shipyard has committed to 40 additional electric catamarans which will be launched in 2024, which includes multihulls from the newest range, the Sunreef ULTIMA .

EXPLORE OUR ELECTRIC CATAMARANS

Ultima range, previous post sunreef yachts and rosberg x racing renewed partnership, next post recharge at sea: solar catamarans harness sun-powered serenity.

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Sunreef Venture S.A.

Sunreef Yachts Shipyard

ul. Tarcice 6

80-718 Gdańsk, Poland

+48 58 769 77 77

Introducing the most exciting performance-focused catamaran to hit the sailing world, the Open Waters 40 is an all-electric catamaran that leverages the latest in yacht construction technologies designed to maximize the thrill of sailing yet still provide the creature comforts of a multihull.

Great handling and speed.

The ESC40 is a 40-ft catamaran designed to be two to three times faster than the typical cruising cat – using carbon fibre to reduce weight and provide increased hull strength.

The twin helm stations are covered by a solar cell-covered roof and come with a 59m2 main sail in addition to three headsails: Jib 26 m ² , FRO 65 m ² and Asail 121 m ² .

The hull is rated to handle boat speeds in excess of 20 knots. With curved retractable daggerboards providing better upwind handling and performance at speed.

The retractable rudders, together with the low draft of 2 ft, allow the boat to cruise in shallow waters and to be beached on the bow or stern.

Regenerative Energy

Thanks to the low weight, higher boat speed and the solar/hydro regeneration systems on-board. The boat is a 100% energy self-sufficient.

The twin electric drives and advanced battery technology allows for quiet, fossil fuel-free cruising.

Using 10 kW motors, the close-quarter power and handling is unrivalled. The folding propeller generates electricity while sailing together with the roof-mounted solar cells, recharging the battery while in operation.

The integrated drives, battery and battery management systems are intelligently inter-connected and provide real-time and predictive insights on power consumption, generation and operational range.

The boat comfortably accommodates four adults and two children, and is sure to bring you all modern comforts such as a 400L water reserve shower and an electric stove.

The hull interior boasts 6’4” of head room with the coach offering even more generous space with 6’8” of head room up to 7 at the aft dinette. The wet deck, spacious with 300 ft ² between hulls features the main stateroom.

Each hull features three deck hatches and six portlights for excellent ventilation while the trampoline across the beam is 305 ft ² of play, relaxation and dolphin viewing.

Our unique construction techniques allows us to manufacture the boat in Canada in a quarter of the time compared to traditional boat building.

We can also build and ship your boat in as early as four months, greatly surpassing the industry standard of 12+ months.

From order to build and delivery, our price compares very favourable to other fast cats.

Faster, cheaper delivery

The boat can be packed in a standard 40ft freight container and be shipped safely anywhere in the world at a much lower cost (up to $50,000 savings) and in a fraction of the time.

Boat owners can now also ship their boat one or both ways between North America, the South Pacific, Mediterranean or the Carribean for a one way cruise or an overwintering.

Vacuum Resin Infusion

Vacuum resin infusion is the process at the heart of our technology and is used for all parts.

The vacuum resin process removes all of the air between the fibres of a part prior to the introduction of the resin.

After the process, our parts are meticulously sanded with variable grit — allowing for maximum paint adhesion on surfaces and smooth, stylish edges.

Core Materials

Core materials are introduced into the part to increase stiffness without increasing weight.

The core is a structural-grade foam with a high shear strength characteristic: if the part is of a complex shape, we cut the foam into sections, thermoforming it to the required shape.

We use five different sizes and densities of foam on the boat, optimized for local strength requirements.

We purchase carbon fiber by the roll and over 35 rolls are used in each boat. We have engineered the laminate schedule to be most efficient in the various areas of the boat maximising strength and reducing weight.

Each meant to be the most efficient for their respective areas. The fabrics are stitched, instead of weaved.

Stitched fabrics do not need to bend over or under other fibre and lay flat, making a stronger part.

At Open Waters, it is our mission to make catamaran cruising more exciting and environmentally sustainable. We’ve set out to create a performance cruising catamaran that will be a joy to sail and that will raise the bar in environmental sustainability.

We have developed a unique  design and manufacturing process, selected high performance  materials that enable us to build a boat that uses less materials and is 50% lighter. As a result it is a lot faster and as a result it is able to generate and store the energy needed to propel it electrically for hours and provide enough energy for on board equipment.

We use high performance carbon fibre and a vacuum infusion process to maximize strength and reduce the use of resin and eliminate resin vapour emissions. We use 100% recycled PET foam core wherever possible and we see the opportunity for incremental use of bio-based epoxy and natural fibres in our future.

As we continue to develop our sustainability roadmap for our boats we will perform a full lifecycle analysis to identify other opportunities to minimize our carbon footprint. 

The unique processes and skills we have developed can be applied and licensed to other marine and recreational vehicles businesses.

Simon Angus

Simon Angus P.Eng is a professional mechanical engineer with a background in project management and a passion for sailing.

He spent his university summers travelling around Europe searching for the best combination of wind and waves in addition to teaching both sailing and windsurfing.

After moving to Canada in 2004, Simon bought a Catalina 27 in Kitimat BC and enjoyed sailing in the Douglas channel with his young family. A career move to Alberta paused his sailing career until he found the joys of chartering sailboats in the Caribbean.

After a 20 year career in industrial engineering and project management he decided to make a change and combined his passion and profession to launch Open Waters Design and Manufacturing in 2016.

He designed and manufactured an 18ft canoe and developed a plug and mold and his proprietary vacuum resin infusion process.  After the successful build of the canoe, Simon built a high performance 18ft A class foiling sailing catamaran out of  a Carbon fibre and refined the mold construction and vacuum resin infusion process.

After researching the various build steps, Simon started with CNC shaping of a plug, hand finishing and building the hull molds. He also built the mast, Z foils and the Tee foil rudders. After successful trials in Vancouver BC, Simon then set out on his next ambitious project, to design and build the boat he had dreamt about for years.

A boat that could be shipped anywhere in the world, sail on with his family and returned to Vancouver for summer cruising and would be electrically sustainable.

Simon was introduced to Hal Whitacre in 2019 which started a design relationship that has resulted in the creation of the Open Waters ESC40.

Hal Whitacre

Hal Whitacre, owner of Whitacre yacht design since 1984 and is responsible for some of the fastest and most luxurious boats ever built.

Hal is Open Waters Chief Naval Architect and has worked closely with Simon over the past 2 years to produce the detailed designs that make up the Open Waters ESC 40.

Hal has a distinguished career in Naval Architecture graduating from the University of Michigan with a degree in Naval architecture and Marine Engineering.

Throughout his career he has pushed the boundaries of naval architecture notably designing the Open Class 60 “Imagine”; breaking ground with the largest rig ever put on an Open 60.

Hal also owns and operates Bruce Roberts USA and in that capacity, he has designed over 100 steel and aluminium boat kits in addition to many fiberglass and  wood sail and power boats. Most recently, Hal was the chief Naval Architect for Gunboat Catamarans when they were built in the USA.

Since their move to Europe, Hal has completed 2 gunboat 55’s along with a conversation of a gunboat 55 to a powercat ferry which has recently conducted successful sea trials.

Hal and his wife Tammy split their time between Annapolis, Md and Sister Bay, Wi.  Hal continues to race Lasers during the winter and windsurfs/foilsurfs as much as possible.

We’re hiring!

Join us on our mission to make catamaran cruising more exciting and environmentally sustainable.

Marine Experience Marketeer

You are well versed and have experience in nearly everything digital marketing. You’ve either grown up boating, lived the life of a cruiser, traveler, racer or practice an other lifestyle action sport and know what makes people tick. You’re an avid content creator and storyteller and you can work your magic with the tools of the trade. Lights, camera, sounds, action. 

Join us for a seamless blend of work and play as we test and trial the boat, document BC cruising experiences and host prospective customers from around the world. While a lot of time is spent on the boat you’ll also be responsible for the creation, editing and delivery of all digital content via influencers, communities, social and traditional media and marketing channels. 

If this sounds like you, please email me at [email protected] tell me why you’d love to join us in BC this summer and include a few links to the amazing content you’ve created and shared. I look forward to our chat.

• NEW : Our Second-Hand catamarans
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ELECTRIC HYBRID DRIVE SYSTEM For silent ecological sailing

Windelo catamarans travel silently even when under power, thanks to their electric hybrid drive system . Enjoy the sound of the waves and wind while not disturbing the wildlife as you set sail from your dream anchorage to a new destination. With our electric catamarans , no more exhaust fumes and vibrations – sailing is now a really pleasurable clean, environmentally-friendly experience .

The Windelo catamarans are fitted with two 20kW electric motors from Bellemarine . With an electric propulsion, there’s no need to warm up the electric motor. You have full power from the moment you switch it on.

Motor: A reliable high-performance electric hybrid drive system

Electric motor with a good cruising range.

• At 6 knots, the Windelo 50 has a range of nearly 4 hours and roughly 22.7nm per day with an 1120Ah battery bank.
• At 7 knots, the Windelo 50 has a range of nearly 2 hours and 17 minutes and roughly 15.47nm per day with an 1120Ah battery bank.

When the energy consumed is not compensated by renewable energies , the 18kW backup 500L diesel generator(s) start(s) up to supply the electric motors and recharge the batteries . The generator is in the aft engine bays and communicates with the Boat Management System . It starts up automatically when the batteries are low and/or when the power required is greater than the power the batteries can supply. So, the full cruising range of our catamarans on the motor is 1100 nautical miles . The generator can also be started manually by the skipper in 2 different modes:

• Cruising range mode : for example, the skipper wishes to start his generator to increase his cruising range when there is no wind.
• Recharge mode : the skipper starts his generator, which automatically switches off when the batteries are fully charged.

SALES MANAGER

Windelo is a new conception brand of innovative catamarans. Ecology is at the heart of the company with the ambition to significantly reduce the environmental impact of our boats. A range of 44 to 60 foot catamarans offering sailors the opportunity to sail with pleasure and safety on eco-friendly boats.

In full development, we are hiring a sales manager:

JOB AND MISSIONS: Managed by the director of the company, and in connection with our various services and partners, you are a key player in the launch of this new brand.

Real project manager: 1. You co-build the Windelo sales and services office, 2. You recruit, train, and drive progressively a team of passionate experts, 3. You develop and innovate in the strategy of selling Windelo boats in Europe, 4. You recruit and lead a global network of sales partners, 5. You co-build and animate the company’s service strategy: port mapping places; insurance and financing; training; owner’s manual etc.

YOUR PROFIL 1. Passionate about sailing, you practice regularly, 2. Your sense of service and customer leads you to satisfy your customers every day, 3. You are enthusiastic and motivated to work in a start-up, 4. You have 2 to 5 years’ experience in the sale of boats, 5. Bilingual French – English, you also speak a third language: German, Italian, or Spanish.

EVOLUTIVE JOB Director of sales

AVAILABILITY / PLACE OF WORK 1st Quarter 2019 / Occitanie Region, Canet en Roussillon FRANCE

TYPE OF CONTRACT AND REMUNERATION Permanent contract / fixed to be defined according to experience + variable.

If you are a passionate of sailing and this challenge to participate in the development of a company in full creation arouses your enthusiasm, welcome to send your application by e-mail to:  contact@windelo-catamaran.com

RESPONSABLE DES VENTES

Windelo consiste en la création d’une nouvelle marque de catamarans innovants. L’écologie est au coeur de l’entreprise avec pour ambition de réduire fortement l’impact environnemental de nos bateaux. Une gamme de catamarans de 44 à 60 pieds offrant aux marins la possibilité de naviguer avec plaisir et sécurité sur des bateaux éco responsables.

En plein développement, nous recrutons un(e) responsable des ventes

POSTE ET MISSIONS

Managé(e) par le directeur de l’entreprise, et en lien avec nos différents services et partenaires, vous êtes un acteur clefs du lancement de cette nouvelle marque. Véritable chef de projet :

1. Vous co-construisez le bureau des ventes et des services de Windelo, 2. Vous recrutez, formez, et animez progressivement une équipe d’experts passionnés, 3. Vous développez et innovez dans la stratégie de vente des bateaux Windelo en Europe, 4. Vous recrutez et animez un réseau mondial de partenaires de vente, 5. Vous co-construisez et animez la stratégie de service de l’entreprise : mapping des places de port ; assurance et financement ; formation ; entretien ; manuel du propriétaire etc.

VOTRE PROFIL 1. Passionné(e) de nautisme, vous naviguez régulièrement, 2. Votre sens du service et du client vous anime pour satisfaire vos clients au quotidien, 3. Vous êtes enthousiaste et motivé(e) à l’idée de travailler en équipe dans une « start-up », 4. Vous disposez de 2 à 5 ans d’expérience dans la vente de bateaux de plaisance, 5. Bilingue français – anglais, vous maitrisez également une troisième langue : allemand, italien, ou espagnol.

POSTE EVOLUTIF Directeur des ventes

DISPONIBILITÉ / LIEU DE TRAVAIL 1ier Trimestre 2019 / Région Occitanie, Canet en Roussillon FRANCE

TYPE DE CONTRAT ET REMUNERATION CDI Cadre / Fixe à définir selon expérience + variable.

Si vous êtes un(e) passionné(e) de l’univers du nautisme et que ce challenge de participer au développement d’une entreprise en pleine création suscite votre enthousiasme, merci d’adresser votre candidature par e-mail à : contact@windelo-catamaran.com

As part of the creation of new types of catamaran made in Occitanie, an audacious choice of ecological innovation has been selected in partnership with the Materials Center of « Mines d’Alès » (C2MA – IMT MINES ALES) (Gard, France). It’s a question of combining ecological performance in terms of minimizing the environmental footprint and structural resistance, and this, in a global approach of circular economy on all parts of the boat. To do this, and in connection with the IMT MINES ALES, Windelo has relied on the use of secondary raw materials, competitive  virgin petroleum-based materials, that fully comply with the specifications in terms of mechanical performance. This is a real first step to the development of a 2.0 fleet ships fully integrated into the challenges and ecological challenges of the 21st century.

Associated with an ecological approach of circular economy integrating a not insignificant part of competitive secondary raw materials from virgin materials, the architectural design and the resistance of materials on the new Windelo catamarans are mechanically tested in the Materials Center of « Mines d’Alès » (C2MA – IMT MINES ALES) (Gard, France) in connection with the architects and designers of the project. The design of the ship, and in particular the hulls and bows, go through a search for efficient structuring and arranging of materials composing it, combined with a mechanically optimized geometrical assembly. To this end, specific test developments, such as the study of distortion of the structure and of the panels constituating the hull of the ship, are studied by digital image correlation techniques coupled with standardized strength tests.

Founder of Catana

“The cruising program for this new boat raises the question of the antagonism between the search for performance under sail and the pleasure of navigation, and the development of pleasant living spaces. The originality of the answer is provided here in the arrangement of the cockpit bringing together the helm and maneuvers to the center of the boat and in the arrangement of living space that occupies the rear of the nacelle.

Just behind the mast the outer cockpit offers two helm stations protected from the wind and spray, a beautiful view of the sails and bows, and allows to have all the maneuvers on hand while limiting the needs to circulate on the bridge. Out of navigation, the cockpit can be more widely protected from the outside and open to the rear space.

Fully opened behind this cockpit, we have not developed two living spaces duplicating one inside the other but a single large space which is ajustable. We have focused our efforts on the geometry of the material and visual limits of this space and on the opening kinematics of the bays. Once opened, they “disappear” to transform the interior into an exterior. The generosity of these openings also allows to modulate the ventilation of this space by playing on a wide range of opening on its four sides

This work on the modularity and the disappearance of limits is found at the extreme rear of the nacelle, with an articulated platform to the davits transforming it into a floor when anchored, and in the rear cabins, whose wide turning porthole eliminates the angle between side plating and back side. The cabin space is therefore generous despite the relative narrowness of the hulls.

All these choices allow us to combine a contained hold of the nacelle, pledge control of the weight estimate, to a generous living space, with a central part given to navigation and maneuvering. The slenderness of the forward spikes, the significant free height under the platform, and the attention paid to the centering of the masses, complete the marine qualities expected for an offshore navigation program.

The other originality of the project brought by this new construction site is in the approach of “eco-design” on materials and construction. Strongly limiting the use of molds, the latter brings a greater margin of freedom in the variations and evolutions of the boats thus conceived. ”

Christophe Barreau et Frédéric Neuman

Architects and Naval Engineers

Who could know if it is the father or the son who is the most  passionate? It doesn’t matter. The important thing  is to write an innovative project within a family culture, for today and for generations to come. Hand over the guiding light, this is Olivier Kauffmann’s will. “At first I wanted to make my own boat, for me and my family; go on trip around the world living on a  efficient and pleasant catamaran. I dreamed of a new quality of space. Today, the dream has matured, and I want to share it with the great family of sailors. »

Windelo is the desire to expose us to something new, innovative, powerful, bigger than oneself. To seek innovations on materials, techniques of industrialization and uses to impulse a new economic reality. “We want to be part of this transformation related to the respect of our environment, it is for us, essential to work in this respect of men and nature. Men are at the heart of the project with the desire to recruit and form a passionate team, surrounded by experts recognized as the best in their field.

And the innovation doesn’t stop here, because the constructive process makes it possible to envisage fast evolutions from one boat to another while remaining well priced. An ambitious and respectful project ; Welcome to the Windelo adventure.

Dans le cadre de la confection de nouveaux types de catamaran made in Occitanie, un choix audacieux d’innovation écologique a été retenu en partenariat avec le Centre des Matériaux des Mines d’Alès (C2MA – IMT MINES ALES) (Gard). Il s’agit à la fois d’allier performance écologique en termes de minimisation de l’empreinte environnementale et résistance des structures, et ce, dans une démarche globale d’économie circulaire sur l’ensemble des parties du bateau. Pour ce faire, et en lien avec l’IMT MINES ALES, Windelo a misé sur l’utilisation de matières premières secondaires, compétitives des matériaux pétrosourcés vierges, et parfaitement conformes au cahier des charges sur le plan des performances mécaniques. C’est un réel premier pas vers l’élaboration d’une flotte de navires 2.0 s’intégrant complètement dans les enjeux et défis écologiques du XXIème siècle.

Associées à une démarche écologique d’économie circulaire intégrant une part non négligeable de matières premières secondaires concurrentielles des matières vierges, l’architecture de conception et la résistance des matériaux des nouveaux catamarans de Windelo sont éprouvées par des tests mécaniques réalisés au Centre des Matériaux des Mines d’Alès (C2MA – IMT MINES ALES) (Gard) en lien avec les architectes et designers du projet. La conception du navire, et en particulier les bordées et étraves, passe par une recherche de structuration performante de l’agencement des matériaux le composant, combinée à une géométrie d’assemblage optimisée sur le plan mécanique. Pour ce faire, des développements d’essais spécifiques, comme l’étude de la déformation de la structure des panneaux constituant la coque du navire, sont étudiés par des techniques de corrélation d’image numériques couplés à des essais de résistance mécanique normalisés.

La rencontre avec Olivier et Gautier a été une agréable surprise pour moi, dès l’exposé de leur projet, j’ai vu réunis tous les ingrédients d’une réussite, l’expérience de gestion d’entreprises mais avec une modestie rassurante, le souci de former une équipe des meilleurs experts (sourire) et une réelle écoute de leurs avis. Au fil des rencontres, les discussions ont ravivé mes souvenirs de la création puis du développement de Catana. Les mêmes motivations, la même recherche de perfection, la même audace teintée de modestie que nous avions au départ du projet. Windelo est centrée sur le produit ; une ligne de catamarans performants construits avec les techniques les plus modernes. Je n’en avais pas conscience à l’époque mais je crois que le succès d’un bon bateau vient de cette passion pour la mer avec la volonté de marier confort sécurité et performance. Je retrouve ici cette passion, et aujourd’hui ce qui a fini de me conquérir c’est le souci de préservation de la nature, tant dans les matériaux choisis que dans les méthodes de production.

Le programme de grande croisière auquel se destine ce nouveau bateau pose la question de l’antagonisme entre d’une part la recherche de performances sous voiles et du plaisir de navigation, et d’autre part l’aménagement d’espaces de vie agréables et généreux. L’originalité de la réponse apportée ici réside dans la disposition du cockpit rassemblant poste de barre et manœuvres au centre du bateau et dans le traitement de l’espace de vie qui occupe l’arrière de la nacelle. Juste en arrière du mât le cockpit extérieur offre deux postes de barre protégés du vent et des embruns, une belle vue sur les voiles et sur les étraves, et permet d’avoir l’ensemble des manœuvres à portée de main tout en limitant les besoins de circuler sur le pont. Hors navigation, le cockpit peut être plus largement protégé de l’extérieur et s’ouvrir sur l’espace arrière. De plein pied en arrière de ce cockpit, nous n’avons pas aménagé deux espaces de vie dupliqués l’un à l’intérieur et l’autre à l’extérieur mais un seul grand espace dont le degré d’ouverture est très largement modulable. Nous avons porté notre effort sur la géométrie des limites matérielles et visuelles de cet espace et sur les cinématiques d’ouverture des baies. Une fois ouvertes elles « disparaissent » pour transformer l’intérieur en extérieur. La générosité des ouvrants permet également de moduler la ventilation de cet espace en jouant sur une large gamme d’ouverture sur ses quatre côtés Ce travail sur la modularité et sur la disparition des limites se retrouve à l’extrême arrière de la nacelle, avec une plateforme articulée aux bossoirs se transformant en plancher au mouillage, et dans les cabines arrières dont le large hublot tournant fait « sauter » l’angle entre bordé latéral et face arrière. L’espace de cabine est donc généreux malgré la relative étroitesse des coques. L’ensemble de ces choix nous permet de conjuguer une emprise contenue de la nacelle, gage de maîtrise du devis de poids, à un espace à vivre généreux, avec une place centrale accordée à la navigation et aux manœuvres. L’élancement des pointes avant, l’importante hauteur libre sous nacelle, et l’attention portée au centrage des masses, complètent les qualités marines attendues pour un programme de navigation hauturière. L’autre originalité du projet apportée par ce nouveau chantier se trouve dans l’approche d’« éco-conception » portant sur les matériaux et le mode constructif. Limitant fortement le recours aux moules ce dernier apporte une plus grande marge de liberté dans les déclinaisons et évolutions des bateaux ainsi conçus.

Qui sait lequel du père ou du fils est le plus passionné ? Peu importe. L’important ici est d’écrire un projet innovant au sein d’une culture familiale, pour aujourd’hui et les générations à venir. Passer le flambeau, le relais ; c’est la volonté d’Olivier Kauffmann. « Au début je voulais me faire mon propre bateau, pour ma famille et moi ; partir faire un tour du monde sur un catamaran performant et plaisant à vivre. Je rêvais à une qualité d’espace inédite. Aujourd’hui, l’envie a mûrit, et je tiens à le partager avec la grande famille des marins ».

Windelo c’est l’envie de s’exposer à quelque chose de nouveau, d’innovant, de performant, de plus grand que soi. Aller chercher des innovations sur des matériaux, des techniques d’industrialisation, des usages et impulser une nouvelle réalité économique. « Nous voulons faire partie de cette transformation liée au respect de notre environnement, c’est pour nous indispensable d’œuvrer dans ce respect des hommes et de la nature. Les hommes sont au cœur du projet avec la volonté de recruter et former une équipe de passionnés, entourés d’experts reconnus comme les meilleurs dans leur domaine ».

Et l’innovation ne s’arrête pas là, car le process constructif permet d’envisager des évolutions rapides d’un bateau à un autre tout en restant bien placé en prix. Projet ambitieux et respectueux, bienvenu(e) dans l’aventure Windelo.

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Marine Electric Engines: How They Work

By François Meyer | January 2024

Last season’s boat shows allowed us to visit and test several electric and hybrid-electric catamarans. It is now a reality: catamarans no longer necessarily have diesel auxiliary propulsion but can be equipped with electric motors.

But how do they work and how do we compare their performance to more traditional power units? Electric, hybrid, power, voltage, charging, autonomy: there are many questions that arise from these configurations.

The aim of this article is to explain the various technologies and see things more clearly. For example, we will take a look at Electric Engines vs Diesel Engines and compare serial and parallel hybrid power systems.

Definitions

Range and Power Density Range and autonomy play a key role within cruising catamaran capabilities. Diesel delivers a huge range because of the high power density of this fuel.

For diesel, one 20 litre jerrycan of diesel (25 kg including the can) contains 204 kWh energy, which is very substantial compared to a battery bank. If you wanted to store 204 kWh energy in a battery bank, it would weigh more than 1200 kg.

The high power density of fossil fuels is one of the main reasons for the dependence of the industrialised world on this fuel. Conserving power within batteries costs a lot of weight and money and requires powerful inboard charging.

Diesel Engines

Because of the high power density of fossil fuels used in combustion engines, the efficiency of diesel ones, was not such an important consideration, especially in boating.

The average overall efficiency of a diesel engine rarely goes beyond 40%. It means you “lose” around 60 % of fuel within the process. Lots of internal mobile parts generate friction and heat which is the main loss.

Furthermore, most catamarans use saildrives. This transmission choice, saves space inside the hulls, but comes with around 10% more losses (gears) compared to a shaft drive.

So at the very end of the day, from an energy point of view, a catamaran fitted with diesel saildrives is not very efficient.

Efficiency of Diesel Engines

Electric Engines

On the other hand, there are not as many moving parts in an electric engine that uses a low friction magnetic field to operate. Their overall efficiency is much higher, higher than 90% in the case of the Permanent Magnet electric motors used in marine vessels.

Better efficiency means also avoiding waste! For that reason, most newbuild catamarans are choosing shaft drives, not saildrives, to achieve better overall efficiency. Electric saildrives, like Oceanvolt Servoprop, are mainly designed for saildrive designed boats whose bilges are simply too small to receive a shaft.

Efficiency of Electric Engines

Downsizing : Diesel and Electric Power Engine Comparison

You may have already noticed this, but electric catamarans are commonly fitted with engines whose power rates well below diesel ones. Firstly there is the conversion factor between horsepower and kilowatt. This is just maths, as 1 kilowatt (kW) is equivalent to 1,36 HP.

The big difference is in torque availability. A diesel engine has its nominal power and torque (the ones that are advertised) at high RPM, at a much higher speed than an engine should be used.

On the graph below, we see power and torque of both diesel and electric engines. For a traditional setup, the power is represented by the dark purple curve at high RPM of a diesel engine (max at 3200 RPM).

If we look at the light purple curve (electric engine), this shows the power of an electric motor is almost constant, after starting.

Let’s now have a look at the torque curves. Torque is the force which turns the propeller and propels the boat.

At 1800 RPM, both motors benefit from 100% of their torque. To achieve 150 Nm of torque, the electric motor needs only 20 kW while the diesel requires 42 kW!

The combination of high torque-low RPM and better overall efficiency mean that you can downsize electric engines when compared to diesel ones. The downsizing sits between a factor of two and three.

System Tension

One of the basic rules of electricity involves the relationship between power, voltage and current.

Power (W) = Voltage (V) x Current (A). The higher the voltage is, the lower the current. Lower amps means, on a boat, smaller diameter cables. But higher voltage also means lethal danger.

There is a physiological limit for a human being (above 120V DC): the heart can be stopped by electrical shock. In wet conditions, this limit goes to 60V DC. That is why most hybrid catamarans are wired at 48V, well below 60.

Some boatbuilders, like Fountaine-Pajot with the Smart Electric Series (Aura 51, Elba 45…) use a 400V DC setup. It is a boatyard choice, but only very educated and skilled tradesman will work on such systems when any marine electrician will be happy to work the more common 48V system.

Electric, or hybrid?

Electric catamaran An electric catamaran is a vessel whose principal propulsion is provided by the wind and whose auxiliary propulsion is provided by an electric motor. On board a 100% electric catamaran there is no combustion engine and no other energy than electricity.

There are not many 100% electric catamarans around as their range, dependent on battery capacity and onboard chargers, is too low for cruising.

The story of Jimmy Cornell’s Outremer 4.Zero is interesting as the renowned sailor decided to go, against the will of the yard, with a full electric (ie. not carrying a diesel genset). In the end, power consumption and power production were not in balance and the fossil free circumnavigation project failed. Relying only on a small sized solar panel array (1,3 kWh) and relatively inefficient regeneration, the boat’s energy consumption was simply too high.

On that boat, fitted with 2 x 10 kW Oceanvolt Servoprop saildrives and 17,5 kWh of batteries, the range, motoring, at mid RPM is less than two hours. Regeneration was delivering around 300 Wh, (0.3 kWh), too few to refill the batteries while using all of the electric appliances.

Hybrid Catamarans A hybrid catamaran is a vessel whose principal propulsion is provided by the wind and whose auxiliary propulsion is provided by different means including an electric engine. Its system uses two or more power sources on board.

Hybrid catamarans can be equipped with an auxiliary main diesel propulsion, assisted by a secondary electric one (parallel hybrid or bi-motorization), or with auxiliary electric engines relying on batteries that can be recharged under way by a generator (diesel, hydrogen, methanol), ie a serial hybrid. This greatly increases the range.

Because of the requirement for a good range, most of the so-called electric catamarans like the Windelo 50, HH44, Fountaine-Pajot Smart Electric Series, O-Yachts Class 66 Eco are hybrid catamarans.

Serial Hybrid Catamarans

A serial hybrid catamaran is propelled by two electric motors. Those motors get their power from batteries which are being charged while sailing using various means.

Solar (photovoltaic) panels account for an important share of renewable energy in the energy mix. Hydrogeneration does not depend on light and can deliver power at night, when sailing a passage.

Serial hybrid catamarans always have a back-up power generator to fill the batteries when needed. The generator can be diesel, or in the future hydrogen, ammonia or methanol (fuel cells).

The Windelo 50 is probably the most efficient serial hybrid sailing catamaran on the market.

Light and fast, she sails well and her two 20 kW electric engines with shaft drive deliver the best efficiency possible. Wired in 48 VDC, with 53,8 kWh of battery capacity (propulsion, 6 kWh house bank), the boat boasts a 5,5 kWc photovoltaic array.

Under sail, on a passage, the boat produces enough power to cover its consumption and slowly charges its batteries. Solar gives her between 20 to 30 kWh per day (depending on latitude) and hydro regeneration, around 24 kWh per day when sailing 10 knots.

But, if needed, the generator can be started, delivering 17 kWh to the battery bank to replenish it within hours. Or, if they are empty, to provide 6 knots motoring speed, the genset is used.

Combining those three methods of charging, the yard claims a 1100 NM range, which is twice the range of a Lagoon 42 with its two 57 HP diesels.

Nevertheless, the Lagoon 42 still has the advantage of power as it can increase its RPM when motoring against waves and tide to cruise at 7 knots while burning more fuel. The Windelo cannot do that, and, in such conditions, its motoring speed will lower.

The Lagoon retains a second advantage as if one diesel fails, the boat still has the other to motorsail.

If Windelo loses its genset at night with depleted batteries, she will have to rely on her sails. Some owners choose a 2 genset configuration for redundancy, but that does add weight and cost.

Parallel Hybrid Catamarans

This set-up uses an electric motor mounted on the diesel engine, both capable of moving the propeller. Where the serial hybrid has two functions (moving and regen), the parallel has four.

The diesel engine can propel the boat. While doing that, it can also move the electric engines which will produce some power, acting as a generator.

The electric engine can move the propeller, diesel off. And, in emergency cases, both electric and diesel engines can move the prop, in a kind of boost mode.

The parallel hybrid yachts do not need any generators as their engines behave as powerful ones. This setup fits particularly well for cruising catamarans as you can enjoy the joy of silent sailing or electric motorsailing but you can always rely on your trusty diesels if needed.

The two systems do not rely on each other and offer an interesting case of redundancy.

A catamaran like the HH44, charges 5,4 kWc from solar and has two 30 HP diesel + 2 10 kW electric motors using a 43,2 kWh battery bank. While diesel motoring, the boat delivers 10 kW to charge the batteries. A sunny day can also fully charge the bank.

Those 43,2 kWh can propel the yacht at 6 knots for a couple of hours. Total range (diesel) is around 628 NM, according to the yard, a range which comes with a good dose of redundancy.

Bi-motorised hybrid catamaran

This third hybrid mixes 2 independent propulsion systems, a diesel one and an electric one.

O-Yachts offers, in its Class 66 Eco, a bi-motorised setup for example. One hull has a conventional diesel with shaft and the other an electric engine with a shaft-drive.

As the two systems are totally separated, the redundancy is there. The boat can be sailed with one engine, diesel or electric, and a small 5° rudder correction will drive the boat straight. Diesel alternator, regeneration and solar replenish the batteries.

This setup, although interesting, suffers from a disadvantage. As the two engines are different, they behave differently and this can cause issues manoeuvring in the marina. The skipper will need plenty of experience in different conditions before fully mastering the boat.

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The Power Catamaran Compilation

• By Yachting Staff
• Updated: December 21, 2018

Power Catamarans have been growing leaps and bounds in popularity, and, in lengths and widths. And for good reason. These cruise-centric yachts offer homelike livability for avid travelers, are fuel efficient and are fairly intuitive to run. Power cats are popular in the bareboat charter market too, for these very reasons.

Here, we take a look at 12 catamarans ranging from a cruising-couple-size 36-footer to a 78-footer for friends, family and some more friends. And there are myriad power options: outboards, diesel inboards, hybrid or even all-solar power.

Fountaine Pajot MY44

The Fountaine Pajot MY44 , a creation of Italian architect Pierangelo Andreani and French designer Daniel Andrieu, has a main deck that’s open from the aft-deck seating all the way forward to the starboard helm station. The sense of spaciousness is significant, for several reasons. First, four glass panels aft can all slide to port, creating an indoor-outdoor space with the aft deck and salon. In the salon, 32-inch-high windows extend for 12 feet down the sides of the yacht, with three sections per side, bringing in natural light along with the three forward panes that comprise the windshield. Finally, 6-foot-6-inch headroom provides vertical clearance, with a 21-foot-7-inch beam that adds interior roominess while keeping the yacht stable.

Read more: Fountaine Pajot MY44

Silent-Yachts 55

The ideas about which solar panels, electric motors, inverters and the like to use — and more importantly, Michael Köhler says, how to configure them — became the basis for the brand Silent-Yachts. The company offers 55-, 64- and 79-foot catamarans that run on solar-electric propulsion. The Silent 55 premiered this fall, and the 64 is sold out for the next two years, Köhler says.

Read more: Silent 55

Horizon PC74

As founder and director of The Powercat Company, a Horizon Power Catamarans distributor, Stuart Hegerstrom had long believed that catamaran builders needed to design their yachts to more stylish standards.

“The boats were very boxy,” he says, based on his years of experience with cats in the charter market. He and his partner, Richard Ford, asked Horizon to produce models that had high-end finishes and looked good inside and out.

The Horizon team brought in mega-yacht designer JC Espinosa to work with its own craftsmen. The result aboard the Horizon PC74 is a catamaran with exterior styling, layout and functionality that should appeal to private and charter owners alike.

Read more: Horizon PC74

The Aquila 36 is a departure from her sisterships in that she is an outboard-powered, express-cruiser-style catamaran, but she also adheres to MarineMax’s philosophies.

With a single main living level from bow to stern and a beam of 14 feet 7 inches, the Aquila 36 is like a bowrider on steroids. She has seating that can handle 20 adults for outings and barbecues, and there are two staterooms below, one in each hull, for family weekending. The staterooms have nearly queen-size berths, en suite heads, stowage and 6-foot-6-inch headroom.

Read more: Aquila 36

Lagoon Seventy 8 Powercat

Lagoon is a division of Groupe Beneteau, the world’s largest builder of sailing yachts, and the Lagoon Seventy 8 Powercat is a developmental sistership of its Seventy 7 super sailing cat. The Seventy series yachts are built at Construction Navale Bordeaux in France, which had to add a new yard to construct these catamarans because they require separate stern molds for the power and sail versions.

Read more: Lagoon Seventy 8 Powercat

Horizon PC60

To understand the Horizon PC60 power catamaran , you need to put aside preconceived notions about midsize yacht amenities. For example, main-deck master suites are the province of yachts over 100 feet length overall. Incorrect. This 60-footer has an elegant and spacious owner’s stateroom on the same level as the salon. If you want a 14-foot center console tender on a 60-foot yacht, you have to tow it. Wrong again. On the PC60, you hoist it onto the upper deck, no problem.

Read more: Horizon PC60

40 Open Sunreef Power

Sunreef is known for pushing the boundaries of catamaran design, incorporating four adjustable hydrofoils into a twin-hulled speedboat.

The Polish builder is one of several European builders (including Evo, Fjord, Wider and Wally) transforming the open ­day-boat category with creative designs. ­Beyond its hydrofoils, the 40 Open Sunreef Power ‘s cockpit has side “wings” along the aft gunwales that fold out at anchor, widening the beam from 17 feet to 22 feet 9 inches.

Read more: 40 Open Sunreef Power

Sunreef 50 Amber Limited Edition

Sunreef Yachts introduced its 50 Amber Limited Edition , with plans to launch just 10 hulls of the exclusive design.

The Sunreef 50 Amber Limited Edition will have a carbon fiber mast and boom, four layout options and numerous amber-colored elements, including the hull.

Read more: Sunreef 50 Amber Limited Edition

Lagoon 630 Motor Yacht

Fitted with the optional twin 300-horsepower Volvo Penta D4 diesels, the Lagoon 630 MY burns only 1.64 gph total at 6 knots, giving a theoretical range of 2,952 nautical miles with standard tankage of 793 gallons. Hull No. 1 had an optional 502-gallon tank, giving it transatlantic range.

Luxury, stability and economy are all hallmarks of Lagoon’s return to luxury motor yachts. If you can take a ride, it will be worth your time.

Read more: Lagoon 630 Motor Yacht

Fountaine Pajot MY 37

The Fountaine Pajot MY 37 easily accommodates the seafaring family with three- and four-stateroom options. In the three-cabin version, called ­Maestro, you’ll find an owner’s suite in the portside hull with a queen-size berth and en suite head. Two double-berth cabins and one more head are available for the kids. If your brood is bigger, the Quator setup features four double cabins with two heads.

The 37 is a traveler and can be powered with twin 150 hp or 220 hp Volvo Penta diesels. Top speed with the smaller engines is 17 knots, while it’s 20 knots with the bigger power plants. Interestingly, at 7 knots, the fuel consumption is the same, with either set of motors offering voyagers a 1 ,000-nm range.

Read more: Fountaine Pajot MY 37

Solarwave 64

Many yachts boast eco chops because they have a handful of solar panels that power the microwave or navigation lights. The Solarwave 64 , launched last summer, has the potential to run on sunshine alone. The vessel’s 42 solar panels generate 15 kW that are stored in batteries weighing about 1,300 pounds. They connect to electric motors.

Read more: Solarwave 64

Glider SS18

This British builder says it strives for design innovation and the Glider SS18 displays that DNA, the result of 8 years of research and development. She has a head-turning, catamaran hull form constructed from aluminum and composite materials. She is 60 feet LOA with a 17-foot beam, and has a relatively shallow 1-foot draft. Powered by quad Yamaha 300 hp outboards, she can reportedly reach 50 knots, and with her Stability Control System (SCS), should give a smooth ride while doing it.

Read more: Glider SS18

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Propulsion Systems for Monohull

The silence of an Oceanvolt electric propulsion is a skipper's dream.  Whether quietly maneuvering through a harbor or motor-sailing on low-wind days to create your own apparent wind, our electric solutions will enhance and extend your sailing enjoyment. 

Oceanvolt offers Hybrid or Electric systems as a power & propulsion option in partnership with many leading monohull boat builders - adding new partners continuously. We also offer repowering solutions for converting away from legacy diesel engines – removing the diesel engine, fuel tanks and exhaust system - cleaning up greasy, smelly engine compartments and freeing up both weight and space below deck.

Oceanvolt systems are scaled and configured to achieve maximum efficiency - taking into consideration boat length, beam and displacement as well as system weight and placement within the boat.  Range, beyond battery capacity, is extended through hydro generation while sailing above 6kn.  This can be complemented with either a portable AC generator or a DC generator (in larger boats or for long distance cruising).

All Oceanvolt systems are engineered to operate at 48 volts for passenger safety and ease of repair. Oceanvolt systems are extremely low maintenance and do not require winterizing (no annual engine maintenance/storage costs).

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80 SUNREEF POWER

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The new 80 Sunreef Power is a universal multihull yacht for long cruises in ultimate comfort. Taking luxury and seaworthiness to a new dimension, this dynamic and elegant craft enters the Sunreef Yachts range, redefining the authentic electric catamaran design. The 80ft yacht ’s dynamic hull and superstructure stretch the living spaces to the extreme, offering infinite options for a bespoke layout and décor.

With a bold, contemporary hull styling, the 80 Sunreef Power incorporates classic stainless steel portlights, teak sole decks, high bulwarks, and subtle ambience lighting. Her massive garage combined with an aft platform allows this luxury catamaran to take her dinghy, numerous water toys, and jet-ski anywhere she goes. Easily accessed from the saloon, the yacht’s full-beam bow terrace is a vast, soothing retreat with amazing amounts of space for sunning and lounging. The 80 Sunreef Power’s immense flybridge offers enough breadth to house a spa pool, a wet bar and generous seating all around.

One of the most spectacular features on board the 80ft yacht is the master suite which can be set up in the bow section of the main deck. With a double bed facing the bow terrace, a bathroom with a walk-in shower, dressing and desk, the suite is bathed in sun from the skylight glazing. The same space can also be used to install a large lounge with ample seating and access to the foredeck.

The main saloon opens wide onto the aft cockpit to combine the electric power catamaran ’s dining space with the outdoor relaxation areas, where more seating is available along with a wet bar. The fully customizable saloon can also accommodate a large galley, depending on the layout selected and houses an elevated interior navigation station.

The immense volumes in the hulls of the luxury catamaran give plenty of room to tailor every unit’s layout to the most specific requirements. The crew quarters along with the galley and crew mess can be accessed directly from the aft cockpit for more privacy on board. Multiple layout configurations are available to set up luxurious guest cabins for a supreme level of comfort on board.

Do not miss out on the 80 Sunreef Power Eco, a solar catamaran that excels in performance with its vibration-free, fume-less, and ultra-silent operations.

SPECIFICATION

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Construction

23.8 m / 78.08 Ft

Length overall

Beam overall

1600 l (422.68 US gal)

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2 x 5000 l (2 x 1320.86 US gal) - 2 x 8000 l (2 x 2113.38 US gal)

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2 x 800 HP - 2 x 1200 HP

1.7 m / 5.6 Ft

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80 Sunreef Power ECO Sól

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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.

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

“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

More than 50 feet, less than 40 tons Catamaran

These travel or cruising catamarans offer space and comfort onboard and are well suited for hybrid solutions which will allow you to move from one mooring place to another with an electrical motor while the generator will take over for long distances. The space available on the roof and the davit allows the installation of fixed and flexible solar panels of large capacity.

We recommend the following solutions for electric motors and the autonomous green energy production of your boat :

• Electric or hybrid motorization solutions • Solar panels • Generators • Other hybrid solutions

ELECTRIC OR HYBRID MOTOR FOR CATAMARAN

2 axc shaft in-line motors from 20 to 40 kw with generator set 22 kw.

OCEANVOLT’s AXC s are specially designed for large heavy-moving boats, sailboats or motorboats and catamarans . These are 10 KW 48 volt modules with integrated controller available in 10, 20, 30 and 40 KW configurations. With 2 motors, hydrogenation makes it possible to produce 600 watts from 6 knots.

From 102 000 euros HT for 2 x 20 KW with a 21 KWH LIFEPO battery pack, 22KW DC generator and chargers. Not including installation and transport.

Diagram of electric motorization configuration for a catamaran :

• Sail drive motors with integrated controller motor
• Control lever
• Control screen
• LIFEPO 17,5 KWH battery pack
• Quay charger
• Optional : 8a. Solar panels 8b. BMS

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Power: 10, 20, 30 or 40 KW HP equivalent *: 25 to 90 CV HP Revolutions per minute (propeller): 1400 Weight (Kg): 48 to 168kg Hydro generation: 2 x 300 W at 6 kts for the AXC 20 Estimated autonomy of the AXC 20 with 21 KWh battery pack 20 miles electric = 110 miles with 100 liters of diesel * Consult our comparative thermal power VS electric

PHOTOVOLTAIC PRODUCTION

Technological advances in terms of solar panels on boats make them almost essential nowadays, whether it is to maintain the charge of the batteries during absences, without having to moor the boat to the dock, or to spread the ever-increasing consumption on board and supply power to the batteries of the electric motor propulsion .

Catamarans that are more than 50 feet offer big surfaces for the installation of flexible solar panels on the roof or the Bimini and fixed solar panels on the davit. You will quickly reach more than 1.5 kWc of power.  

• 25% high efficiency cells and Rear Contact Technology
• Anti-slip coating trampling resistant
• Optimized coating for shaded areas
• 5-year warranty

GENERATOR FOR CATAMARAN

Take advantage of the space saved with the installation of an electric motor to give yourself the comfort of a generator.

We have selected the sets from the brand Fischer Panda because they are compact, silent and they can be easily integrated into a 48 volts electric motorization system.

The set could therefore supply the batteries and the motor. We recommend the AGT DC with a power of 3 to 25 KW.

• Almost unlimited autonomy
• Comfortable electrical equipment
• Low noise thanks to its cocoon
• Low Weight (Generator + electric motor + batteries) equivalent to a Diesel engine.

OTHER HYBRID SOLUTIONS

Combining an internal combustion engine and an electric motor ! Nowadays, It is possible to use a diesel motor and an electric motor.

Thanks to the innovative integral solution, the diesel engine recharges the 48 volts battery pack when you are navigating with the motor. This way, the excess energy of the inboard motor can be used to transform it and store it in the batteries. This smart technology helps you improve the efficiency of the motor by creating up to 9 kW of electricity without compromising the performance of the motor

This solution is particularly suitable for owners of catamarans who want to keep at least one thermal engine and for the owners of boats who don’t want to use a generator set .

• Manufacturer: Voyage Yachts
• Boat length at waterline: 58 ft / 17.68 m
• Beam: 31 ft/ 9.33 m
• Displacement: 39,600 pounds/ 17,960 kg
• Electric motor system: Oceanvolt SEA60 with two Oceanvolt AXC30 electric sail drive motors
• Rated power of electric motor system: 2 AXC 30 kW
• Electric motor system voltage: 48V
• Electric motor system weight: 186 kg
• Batteries: lithium Super-B 24 kWh or battery
• Generator: 2 generators 14 kW DC

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92m hybrid electric Feadship Drizzle delivered to owner

The 91.8-metre Feadship superyacht Drizzle has now been delivered following successful sea trials in June. According to BOATPro , her final destination is Malta, an archipelago in the central Mediterranean. 

The superyacht was last seen departing from the shipyard's facilities in Amsterdam (13 June). Built for a repeat Feadship owner who came to the project with "informed requests based on his long experience of yachting", Drizzle 's design is by Dutch studio Sinot and the owner's related design office.

Characterised by chamfered exterior contours and a more traditional flared bow, the yacht has a modern-classic style with naval architecture by Feadship De Voogt Naval Architects . Notably, she is the first Feadship to carry full Hybrid Electric Class notation.

Drizzle 's interior is designed to reflect an "understated family home" with natural materials and finishes throughout. Accommodation is found on the main deck, along with the large pool and open-air lounge shaded by the deckhead overhang.

Meanwhile, the owner's suite, family lounge and wellness area are situated on the upper decks. Up top, the sundeck serves as an observation vantage point with a forward-facing sofa and sun loungers, while the aft deck is used for storing two rescue tenders.

One of the owner's key requirements in building the yacht was to house a more spacious beach club in the stern, which occupies one-quarter of the total length of the lower deck. The large, fixed stern platform combines with two fold-down platforms to create 165 square metres of water-level lounging space. Sweeping staircases on either side of the stern platform lead to the main deck aft. 

Between the engine room and the beach club is a side-loading garage with room for two 10-metre tenders, a ski boat and various water toys. Forward is the crew area, comprising the galley, crew mess and crew accommodation.

Drizzle carries full Hybrid Electric Class notation, the power package comprising two main engines and shaft-driven fixed pitch propellers, coupled with electric motors of 560kW each and 1MW of Li-ion batteries. The e-motors work as shaft generators to produce electricity to serve the hotel load or recharge the battery bank, as well as for low-speed navigation while the generators or batteries generate the required electrical power.

Albert Abma, Feadship project manager, commented on the launch in April: "Working with the experienced owner, designers and owner's team has been a professional pleasure. Gathering the operational experience of the owner's team with the yard’s building experience has resulted in this modern-classic, state-of-art and full-custom new Feadship".

The news comes closely after the first proper sighting of Project 713 , Feadship's first solar powered superyacht. She is now preparing for sea trials.

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• Engineering

In an ambitious step towards sustainable marine travel, German actor and environmental entrepreneur Daniel Roesner has teamed up with yacht design and engineering studio iYacht to create a 55-ft solar-electric catamaran named Hu’chu 55. This eco-friendly vessel, built with circularity in mind, aims to set new standards in yacht construction by utilizing scrap metal, reclaimed wood, and recycled cork.

Circular design and sustainable materials

The Hu’chu 55 catamaran represents a significant leap in sustainable yacht design. Roesner and iYacht have meticulously planned the use of environmentally friendly materials to minimize the vessel’s ecological footprint.

The catamaran’s primary structure will be crafted from an innovative aluminum alloy, composed of over 90% recycled scrap metal. This unique blend is sourced from various discarded items, including license plates, road signs, cosmetic cans, and automotive and construction scraps. Remarkably, this recycled aluminum boasts just one-eighth of the carbon footprint compared to standard market alternatives.

Beyond the metal framework, the Hu’chu 55 will incorporate natural fibers, reclaimed wood, and recycled cork. These materials not only reduce environmental impact but also enhance the vessel’s aesthetic and functional qualities, aligning with Roesner’s vision of a truly sustainable catamaran.

Efficient sailing and renewable energy

Designed to operate primarily under sail, the Hu’chu 55 features an advanced rig and sail system for optimal performance and ease of handling. The catamaran is equipped with three forestays, including a self-tacking staysail, an overlapping genoa jib, and a gennaker, all supported by optimized daggerboards. The mast’s strategic positioning towards the aft simplifies mainsail management, ensuring efficient and manageable sailing.

Complementing its sail power, the Hu’chu 55 is equipped with two electric motors and a 100-kWh battery pack. These batteries can be passively charged through the spinning propellers as the yacht sails, as well as via solar panels installed on the vessel. This dual charging system ensures a steady supply of renewable energy to meet the yacht’s power needs, including water treatment and onboard electronics, such as those in the film editing room.

Living and working at sea

Roesner’s plans for the Hu’chu 55 extend beyond leisure; he intends to live and work on the catamaran, producing documentaries and conducting ocean research. To support this lifestyle, iYacht has designed the vessel to navigate both high and low latitude destinations, incorporating features that enhance self-sufficiency and adaptability.

Vertical hydroponic gardens are integrated amidships, providing fresh produce regardless of location. The yacht also includes dry storage for electronic equipment and two garages to house diving and sports gear. These features ensure that Roesner can maintain a sustainable, self-reliant lifestyle while pursuing his passion for environmental documentation and ocean exploration.

Moving from concept to reality

With the design phase complete, Roesner is actively seeking partners, sponsors, and investors to bring the Hu’chu 55 concept to life. Additionally, he is looking for shipyards experienced in aluminum construction to build the catamaran. This collaborative approach aims to pool resources and expertise, ensuring that the Hu’chu 55 not only meets its ambitious sustainability goals but also sets a precedent for future yacht designs.

Source: Hu’chu

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• Maserati’s First Electric Boat Delivers Style and Fun on the Water—We Took It for a Spin

We're the world's only media outlet to test this stylish 34-footer on Italy's Lake Maggiore. Here's what we found.

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The all-electric Tridente is nothing if not dashing. It joins other electric boats affiliated with sports car marques, including the Frauscher X Porsche 850 Fantom Air and BMW-designed Tyde foiling electric boat . The Maserati has a much more conventional look than the other two.

The Tridente debuted alongside the car manufacturer’s newest electric vehicle, the Grancabrio Folgore, meaning “lightning bolt” in Italian. Maserati’s head of design, Klaus Busse, was on hand for both launches. Busse, a genial and strikingly tall German, had this to say about Maserati’s design approach, and Italian design overall: “If you look at the design of the Porsche 911, for example, you can see the Germans evolved it little by little over time—as if they are on a road to the idea of perfection. But with Italians, every ten years or so, they break everything and start with something fresh and new.”

Somewhat ironically, the Tridente seems to pull more from the German school of thought. Sleek and classic looking, there is nothing groundbreaking about the aesthetics. The boat has the familiar design language of an old Riva runabout—gently cambered bow deck, tumblehome in the after section—though built with modern materials and colors, and adorned nearly everywhere with the Maserati emblem.

But when the Tridente first pulled into view beside the lake’s breakwater, and the dark-blue water shimmered off its steel-gray hull, for a moment the machine looked almost surreal. It was stunning.

The boat is built around a carbon-fiber hull for rigidity and weight savings, and the fit and finish meets the standards one might expect: soft leathers, tight stitching, and a general feeling of solidity to the seating. This model seats eight comfortably, with wraparound seating at amidships and a scooped-out section aft that is, in effect, a giant sunpad. The cabin is tiny, but could fit a child who needs a nap out of the sun.

Maserati enlisted Vita Power, the EV marine company, for Tridente’s electric propulsion system. The boat is powered by four batteries that weigh 3,200 pounds, which explains the choice of lightweight carbon fiber for the hull. The entire boat displaces 11,400 pounds, about 2,000 pounds less than a Riva Aquariva 33. That light weight, paired with the equivalent of 600 horsepower, lets the Tridente accelerate like a proper sportscar.

When I pinned the throttle I felt real G forces pressing me into the captain’s seat—common for a high-performance raceboat, but rare for an electric vessel. The helm is a simple setup: a center touchscreen and two throttles. The reported top end is 46 mph, but I saw 42.6. At a 25-knot cruise, the Tridente has a 43-mile range, more than enough to get from Monaco to Cannes on a single charge.

Maserati says the batteries can be topped off in under an hour via a fast-charging DC connection. Running at cruise, the Maserati manifested the nimbleness requisite of a boat in this class, slicing cleanly through S turns and hard overs.

There were no waves, but I did send the Tridente through its own wake and was pleased with the way the hull split the chop. In the end, it proved a very fun boat to drive and looked exceptional with the lake and mountain backdrop.

The price may well be a bit much for most boaters to swallow, even if it’s the coolest superyacht tender on the planet. But if you want what is arguably the world’s most advanced and best-constructed electric boat, the Tridente fits the bill, an evolutionary leap for a classic-looking Italian runabout.

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