hybrid electric sailing catamaran

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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 3 hours and 45 minutes 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.

• Yachting World
• Digital Edition

How hybrid sailing yachts finally became a feasible option

• May 17, 2019

They’ve been a long time coming, but marine hybrid propulsion systems are finally a working reality, as Sam Fortescue reports

The Bootswerft Heinrich-built 13m Yamila uses an Oceanvolt electric motor rather than a diesel engine. Photo: Peter Minder

Every sailor is familiar with the wet cough of the diesel engine, and the acrid smell of its exhaust. For some it’s the sign that an adventure is starting, for others it is the reassurance that all is well on board the boat. The traditional engine is perhaps your boat’s most important safety feature, but its days may be numbered.

The electric sailing revolution is coming – and though adoption in the marine sector is proving much slower than in the automotive world ashore, progress is being made.

The market is still relatively small. Clear market leader Torqeedo had sales of €25m last year, most of which was in ferries and compact outboards. It also offers a range of saildrive and pod drive motors for yachts displacing from 2 to 50 tonnes, or roughly 20-60ft LOA.

But sailors have been slow on the uptake, and for one good reason: if you’re planning to cross an ocean or take on tough conditions offshore, you rely on your engine to help you outrun danger or motor through the doldrums – sometimes for days at a time.

Oceanvolt AXC series is a modular shaft drive system (10kW to 40kW) that will fit in place of a tradition diesel engine

Even with the current crop of advanced lithium-ion boat batteries , the range of an electric system is measured in tens of miles, not hundreds. So a 35ft monohull with 10kWh of lithium battery (four units weighing 96kg in total) would have a range of just 24 nautical miles at 3.8 knots, or less than 16 nautical miles at full throttle.

Taking into account the incredible wastage of combustion engines, which dissipate more energy as heat and noise than they provide in propulsion, diesel is still ten times more energy dense than batteries.

Full-carbon luxury daysailer Yamila uses an Oceanvolt SD8 8kW electric saildrive system. Photo: Tobias Stoerkle

“When you look at bluewater cruisers, of course you will have a diesel,” says Torqeedo’s founder and CEO, Dr Christoph Ballin. “And it’s right that not many coastal sailors opt for pure electric.”

But that doesn’t mean that electric has no interest for cruising sailors – far from it. The more common route for ‘normal’ sailors will be to combine diesel and electric in a hybrid sailing system.

Under this model, the engine is replaced by an electric motor, hooked up to a bank of lithium batteries. This can be charged via hydrogeneration – when the speed under sail turns the propeller and puts charge back into the batteries – and solar or wind. But when extended periods under power are required a standalone DC generator, which can be installed anywhere on board, supplies the electricity.

This is the set-up recommended by Finland’s Oceanvolt, which has focused on the cruising sailing market with a range of shaft and sail drive motors from 3.7kW to 15kW (roughly 10hp to 45hp in diesel engine terms).

“In the case of the round-the-world cruiser, we recommend a hybrid system with a backup genset to support continuous drive when/if needed,” says Oceanvolt CEO Markus Mustelin. “A regenerating prop, which spins while sailing and recharges the batteries (sacrificing 0.2-0.4 of a knot, depending on the boat and conditions) makes it possible to be almost independent of the genset and use it only for backup.”

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This system has the advantage that the generator is only needed on longer passages, so the boat still manoeuvres silently in and out of ports and anchorages.

And a well-designed, correctly sized generator is much more efficient at turning diesel into electricity than an engine not originally designed for the job. Some sailors opt for an in-line hybrid system, like those offered by Hybrid-Marine, which bolts onto the existing diesel.

These are easier to retrofit, with many of the same characteristics as the full hybrid system, but there’s the disadvantage of still having an engine boxed away somewhere near the middle of the boat.

Electro magnetism

Until now, most business has been done through retrofitting existing yachts. But an increasing number of yacht builders are looking to include electric propulsion as original equipment. The world’s third largest boatbuilder, Hanse Yachts , is perhaps the most advanced – offering its entry-level Hanse 315 with an electric rudder-drive option.

The system takes up less space than the standard diesel, is much quieter and vibration- and emissions-free. But Hanse admits take up has been disappointing.

The technology has found more interest among lake sailors. Innovative young German brand Bente has been fitting Torqeedo motors to its successful 24ft model, originally designed for Germany’s ‘Green Lakes’.

Closer to home, dinghy specialist RS Sailing has decided to fit a retractable electric drive to its new RS21 keelboat. Already christened the ‘invisible gennaker’, the system is based on Torqeedo’s Travel 1003 outboard motor.

Bigger race boats have also been attracted by the lure of low-weight propulsion. Just look at Malizia , an IMOCA 60 being prepared for the 2020 Vendée Globe with a lightweight Torqeedo system.

“Emissions-free round the world under race conditions, while simultaneously producing your own energy, is a thoroughly inspirational concept,” said Malizia skipper Boris Herrmann.

Electric has also been successful at the luxury end of the market, where lithium-ion batteries account for a smaller share of the boat’s overall cost. A 50ft Privilege 5 catamaran and a carbon fibre Gunboat 60 have both been retrofitted with Torqeedo kit, while Oceanvolt appears on a Swan 57 and an all-carbon Agile 42.

Overview of the Torqeedo Deep Blue propulsion system installed in the Gunboat Moonwave

The Gunboat Moonwave has two 25kW Deep Blue saildrives both capable of regenerating under sail. There is still a generator on board to extend battery range offshore, but “they no longer use the generator – it’s just for emergency,” says Torqeedo’s Ballin.

Spirit Yachts is also designing electric propulsion into its Spirit 111  flagship, due for launch this summer. With four big 40kW lithium batteries aboard and a 100kW motor, the yacht will be able to operate silently for hours, although it also has 100kW of diesel generator capacity.

“The real focus is not the propulsion,” explains Spirit director Nigel Stuart, “but that everything works in harmony, from galley equipment and hot water to heating, air conditioning, hydraulics etc.” The British yard is also building a 65-footer using Oceanvolt hybrid technology and a new 44-footer that is pure electric.

With racing on one hand and high-end cruisers on the other, there is something of a gap in the middle. By Torqeedo’s own admission, the cruising sailor hasn’t been a big focus of the electric revolution, but all that is about to change. “We started a bit late with sailing,” Ballin admits, “but in the next five to eight years it will be addressed big time.”

Fully integrated electric drive system will power the new 111ft Spirit Yachts flagship

What does that really mean? Well, in the first instance, it means system integration. If that doesn’t sound revolutionary, then imagine a set-up on board where solar panels, hydrogenerators, batteries, generators and motors all worked seamlessly together to keep the yacht supplied with ample power around the clock. “That’s what people are willing to pay for: plenty of energy with heating or air-con through the night,” says Ballin.

The future of hybrid sailing

In the near future, Torqeedo is planning a new range-extending DC generator specifically for hybrid sailing boats. Its existing unit is built by WhisperPower and provides 25kW, which is too much power for boats using the pod drive system.

The genset will be designed to operate at optimum revolutions, while clever DC to DC conversion decouples the battery voltage from the charging voltage, for much greater efficiency.

With boats, just as with cars, the breakthrough that will make all the difference is around battery capacity. Until range under electric power can match that of diesel, there will be many sceptics. And that isn’t likely to happen for a decade or more, according to Ballin.

“Theoretically, they’ve tested batteries in labs that are ten times more efficient than lithium,” he explains. “And if that comes through, then gasoline is done. But we are trying to combine long-term vision with short-term mindset.”

In the meantime, the prevalent technology is based on lithium-manganese-cobalt, and a process of steady development is making this 5-8% better each year. For example, BMW has just announced its next generation i3 battery, used by Torqeedo’s Deep Blue system, will be able to hold 40kWh of power – an increase of 33% for the same size, weight and nearly the same cost.

Torqeedo Cruise 2.0 FP Pod Drive is suitable for small yachts up to 4 tonnes – a folding prop can also be fitted

The other area of development is around the propeller. Most cruising systems use a folding or feathering prop designed for diesel engines. But Torqeedo’s own research shows that the consistently high torque of an electric motor is best utilised by props with variable pitch.

And yet it is Oceanvolt that has addressed this issue specifically for electric motors with its Servo Prop system, which it claims to be 30% more efficient ahead, 100% better astern and 300% more efficient in regeneration mode.

Oceanvolt says that this prop can pump around 500W into the batteries at just 5 knots – the average pace of a 30ft monohull. At 6 knots that rises to around 800W, and at a very manageable 7 knots for a larger ocean cruiser you get 1.2kW.

“A new technology can rarely compete in price with an established one in its initial growth phase,” says Mustelin. “However, we have passed this and today electric systems are offered at a quite competitive price. When you add to that the fact the electric system is almost service free, the total cost of ownership is turning in favour of electric.”

So, you may not hear them approach, but expect to see more and more electric-powered boats on the water as the revolution continues.

A question of torque

A key part of the viability of electric propulsion rests on the notion that a smaller motor can achieve the same work as a bigger diesel. There are two elements to this. First, a diesel engine is not an efficient converter of chemical energy into thrust, creating a lot of heat and noise in the process. Second, the torque characteristics of electric are much better than diesel.

Mustelin says that Oceanvolt’s 10kW motor “easily outperforms” a 30hp diesel. “Typically, maximum boat speed will be somewhat lower (0.5kt-1.0kt) than with a comparable diesel engine, but at the same time the boat will maintain the speed better in heavy seas and headwind due to higher torque. Manoeuvrability is much better in confined marina spaces.”

That’s because combustion engines only reach peak power (and maximum torque) over a small range of speeds. Torque is a measure of turning power – at the propeller in the case of a boat.

A diesel engine develops optimum torque between 1,800-2,000rpm, while electric motors deliver it from 0 to around 2,000rpm. This allows electric motors to use higher efficiency propellers that are slimmer and more steeply pitched.

Engine-driven: The ‘alternator on steroids’

It has taken years of development and over $10m of funding, but renowned boat systems expert Nigel Calder has helped design an alternator so powerful that it eliminates the need for a generator on board.

Mounted on the engine, on the second alternator position, the Integrel can produce five to ten times more power. Sitting behind the system is at least 10kWh of lead acid batteries (lithium is also an option), and Victron chargers and inverters.

“If you crank the engine it’ll charge the batteries; if you’re running with the engine in neutral, it’ll know it’s in standalone generator mode and switch to that algorithm,” explains Calder. “It will likely be cheaper than a generator installation, and eliminates the issue of the through-hulls, the cooling circuits, the long running hours, the maintenance.”

The system allows you to run all sorts of creature comforts on board that would normally require a generator: from hot water on-demand to coffee makers and freezers. “We honestly believe that this system is going to supplant generators on almost all boats that currently have, or would like to have, a generator,” adds Calder.

With the engine in gear and at low revs, tests show how the Integrel can produce some 2kW of power without increasing fuel consumption or reducing speed – simply utilising the engine’s wasted capacity. This means it will work with the yacht’s existing engine – no need to overspec – and it has already been successfully installed on a new Southerly 480, a Malo 46 and a similar-sized Hallberg-Rassy.

Case study: Dufour 382 Alcyone

Built by Dufour in 2016, Alcyone was immediately retrofitted professionally with Oceanvolt’s SD15 saildrive motor, supplied by a 14kWh lithium battery bank. Owners Michael Melling and Diana Kolpak also specced an 8kWh DC generator for range extension. The fit out cost €30,600 for the motor and battery system, plus an additional €13,744 for the generator, and installation costs were around €8,000.

They charter the boat out near Vancouver, for exploring Desolation Sound and the surrounding area where silent, clean propulsion is a selling point. “Nothing spoils the joy of sailing – or a secluded anchorage – more than the noise and smell of diesel engines,” they explained. “Installing an Oceanvolt system in our new boat has freed us from that. It’s the way of the future.”

Charter manager Merion Martin said the conversion has also been popular with charter customers, adding: “The main advantage of the system is that it consistently uses around 40% less fuel than a standard diesel engine over the course of a week’s charter. But understanding the power management system takes a bit of getting used to, and the many components involved in the system can make troubleshooting a challenge.”

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The Maverick 440 Hybrid is powered by Oceanvolt.

Maverick 440 Hybrid

Maverick Yachts has teamed up with  Oceanvolt in order to offer the Maverick 440 Hybrid.

The Oceanvolt package offers distinct advantages for a cruising catamaran including

- Award-Winning Servoprop with Best-in-Class hydro-regeneration capabilities;

- Low voltage 48 V electric engine system for better safety and serviceability  

- Fit-for-purpose form factor in design for saving space and weight

- Low maintenance engine components & mounting solutions.

- Lithium-ion phosphate batteries for safety & reliability

Oceanvolt ServoProps

The  Maverick 440 Hybrid comes standard with 2 x award-winning Oceanvolt ServoProps. 

The Oceanvolt ServoProps offer the best hydro-regeneration capability for any system in this class in the world today.

The reason for the superior hydro-regeneration capability is due to the feathering propellers. 

Feathering props allow for the prop angle to rotate 180 degrees and effectively be facing forward when in Hydro-regeneration mode, this provides for maximum hydrogen regeneration capabilities that are much higher than a traditional prop rotating 'back-wards'.

Software controls the prop angle to maximize the charge to the battery bank taking into account the boat speed while sailing.

This is a game-changer as the feasibility of meaningful hydro-regeneration at lower boat speeds  creates opportunities for autonomous world cruising without reliance on fossil fuels.

With your sails and hydro-regeneration, you can conquer the globe. 

The Maverick 440 Hybrid is an electric sail drive sailing catamaran. The electric engines are powered by lithium-iron phosphate batteries. The batteries are charged through a number of sources, namely; solar power, wind generators (optional), hydro-regeneration while sailing, shore power, and diesel generator(s).

Our electric powertrain with multiple charging options and GenSet backup, with large diesel tanks, make for the best range of any electric 44ft production cruising catamaran in the world.

Electric Engines are 15kW Oceanvolt ServoProps.

Maverick  440 Hybrid 

3 & 4 Cabin layouts

Maverick 440 Hybrid - 3 Cabin

This has 2 x GenSet in the aft engine lockers, with access from the outside of the yacht.

Maverick 440 Hybrid - 3 Cabin

The 3-Cabin Hybrid comes with 2 x 11kW DC 48V GenSets. 

The GenSets are both mounted in the engine bays.

Two GenSets give the ability to motor on back-up diesel if required. Given the biggest in class long-range fuel tanks of the Maverick 440, this provides peace of mind.

Maverick 440 Hybrid - 4 Cabin layout

The 4-Cabin Hybrid comes with a 15kW DC 48V GenSet.

Maverick 440 Hybrid - 4 cabin

The Maverick catamaran's hull design allows it to track beautifully on one engine alone. With a powerful backup 15kW GenSet this provides an incredible range possible with long-range diesel fuel tanks. 

The GenSet is powerful enough to drive both electric motors at a lower rev range. 

Both motors are required for maneuvers such as anchoring and mooring, as these activites can be done in full-electric mode through power from the battery bank. 

Testimonial

Genko Ganev 

San Diego, California

"As a professional mechanical engineer, I am very particular about any construction process I am involved in, the quality of the materials and components used, all key ingredients for a high-quality product. Building a “live aboard” catamaran is twice more difficult than building a house in California. Our search for the right boat builder and the right live aboard custom-built catamaran took us over a year and I can confidently say: “We found the right one – Maverick Yachts in Cape Town, South Africa”. After two meetings with Rudi Pretorius at Maverick Yachts, we signed a contract, I quit my day job and relocated to Cape Town for six months while our catamaran was built. True custom-built catamaran, well thought out and build strong. As people say – “They don’t build them like that anymore”. We are extremely happy with our choice and the entire experience was better than expected."

Oceanvolt Saildrive with ServoProps 

The Maverick 440 Hybrid is fitted as standard with

2 x 15kW Oceanvolt ServoProps.

This is the most light-weight and compact 15kW electric sail drive solution on the market today. The blue area is the electric motor and replaces the traditional 40hp diesel engine. This saves space and weight and provides more power & torque. Additional weight is added back to the yacht in the form of a strong Lithium-iron phosphate battery bank. The position of these batteries is more forward on the yacht leading to better weight distribution and trim angles.

On the 3-cabin version, 2 x GenSet's are placed in the engine bays which are lighter, more compact, and more silent than the traditional diesel engines also allowing for extra storage space.

On the 4-cabin version, one larger GenSet is located near the mast that allows for additional storage in the engine bay lockers aft.  

Lithium-iron-phosphate (LiFePO4)  batteries 

The Maverick 440 Hybrid comes standard with a total of 42kW lithium-iron phosphate MAIN battery bank.

- other size battery banks can be considered & installed upon request -

For redundancy and weight balancing reasons, this battery bank is split into 2 x 21kW 48 V battery banks.

Lithium-iron phosphate (LiFePO4)  batteries have many advantages  in a marine environment, including; 

The chemistry offers a longer cycle life than other lithium-ion approaches.

LiFePO4 batteries have a slower rate of capacity loss which means they retain their charge for longer.

They  have a very constant discharge voltage which allows the cell to deliver virtually full power throughout the discharge.

The use of phosphates is more environmentally friendly to source & recycle than some alternatives. 

LiFePO 4  batteries have good thermal & chemical stability which improves battery safety.

Easy to read Display

The Ocean Volts HMI (Human Machine Interface) is designed to be easy to use in all weather conditions.

During the day the bright & clear display provides the Captain with the essential information at the helm relating to the electric motors and battery systems.

In the night mode, the display is in red in order to preserve your night vision and be more relaxing on the eyes over extended periods.

Internally a more detailed display at the chart table provides a complete overview of battery monitoring systems as provided by Victron Energy. This includes information relating to the consumption of power by the electric engines, house systems, and also charge rates from all sources power like solar & hydro-regeneration. 

The backup Generator is set to automatically turn on to charge the batteries at pre-determined levels to make sure there is always adequate power in the battery bank.

Oceanvolt dual-engine control levers

All the power you need at your fingertips.

Oceanvolt engine controllers are smooth and easy to operate.

With electric motors unique characteristics to deliver a linear torque curve, offering full power from the start all the way through the rev range allows for sublime boat handling.

With two aft-mounted motors on either hull  360° degree turns pivoting on a point are possible. With skill and practice, you can edge the yacht sideways.

Switching from forward to reverse can be done faster than traditional diesel engines which provides better responsiveness and safety margin.

All of this is done in silence. 

Motor Controller

Each electric motor has its own dedicated engine controller. 

This controls the motor operation of inverting DC to 3-phase AC.

The end of range anxiety

The Maverick 440 Hybrid sailing comes standard with backup diesel GenSet(s) that can run the electric engines all day long with long-range full tanks.  

90% of use cases for motors are for short-haul maneuvers like anchoring or maneuvering.  Pure electric power is perfect for this due to the high levels of immediate torque.

There are times where you may require large amounts of power from your engines for sustained periods, such as when outrunning a storm, making your way up a river, or when crossing the doldrums in no wind. For these times it is good to have backup GenSet(s) linked to long-range fuel tanks to give you a lot of options & peace of mind.

LiFePO4 batte ries & electric motors offer greener alternative

Diesel has around 100 times the energy density of Lithium-Ion Phosphate (LiFePO4)  batteries.

LiFePO4 has 2'000 full discharge cycles, this can be up to 12'000 cycles.

Provided the method used to charge the batteries is from a green sustainable & renewable source Lithium-Ion Phosphate ( LiFePO4) can offer around 20 times or 2'000% improvement.

Consistently driving an electric engine that obtains its energy source from fossil fuels alone has a higher environmental impact than simply using a diesel engine. This has got to do with inefficiencies related to the principles of conservation of energy. It is more efficient to use the power of diesel to drive a piston than to use it to convert into electricity, store in a battery and then convert for usage by the electric engine, as at each step a small amount of energy is lost.

Therefore an important consideration for a greener tomorrow is to make sure that your charge your batteries with green sustainable & renewable energy sources whenever possible. Sources such as wind power, solar power, and hydro-power are environment-friendly and sustainable ways to recharge your batteries. These green energy sources can be created on and by your yacht and also obtained through shore power sourced from green energy providers.  

• Build Your Antares 44 Hybrid
• Build Your Antares 44 GT
• Antares Hybrid Details
• Optional Salon Layout
• GT and Hybrid Overview
• Hybrid Design
• Standard Features
• Specifications & Layout
• Performance
• Building the Antares
• Antares Design Concepts
• Electrical Systems
• Antares Line Management
• Ted Clements – The Legend
• Antares Owner Roundtables
• Owner Satisfaction Survey
• Antares University
• Owner Adventures
• Interior Photos
• Exterior Photos
• Featured Videos

Critical Design Requirements

Hybrid designs overview, hybrid marine, hydro regeneration.

• Power Scenarios

Lithium Comments

• Key Benefits
• Market Analysis

Hybrid Design Overview

There are two primary designs of hybrid systems available for yachts – Serial or Parallel .  After much research, we chose to use a  Parallel Hybrid model.   There are many reasons for this decision, which are explained in detail below.

We developed a solution that does not deviate from our history of never compromising crew safety and comfort for the latest market trends and newest technologies.  Our boats are designed to be dependable, redundant, and safe in extreme weather conditions and remote locations. In addition, keeping customer needs in focus as we modify our offerings is one of the reasons we are ‘The Worlds’ Best Liveaboard.’

We feel it is essential for our customers to understand how we arrived at our Hybrid offering. Here is our table of critical design considerations.

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There are two primary types of hybrid systems for yachts –  Serial & Parallel .  Parallel systems exist in either  External  or  Flywheel  versions.

This is an example of a Series Hybrid  system from OceanVolt.  These systems rely on a DC generator to charge the batteries and power the two electric motors which in turn power the Yanmar sail drives.

There are a number of reasons why this system was not selected by Antares:

• We will never put a sail drive on our boats
• Serial hybrid systems are less efficient than parallel systems
• OceanVolt batteries are not LiFePO4 chemistry (more on this here)

A  Flywheel Parallel system uses a traditional diesel engine, in a series with an electric motor and transmission to power either a salldrive or shaft.  This is an example of a Volvo design currently in development with Fontaine Pajot.

We did not select this type of  Parallel system for the following reasons:

• The space required is too ‘long’ in length to easily fit in the Antares GT
• If the clutch fails, the engine and motor are disabled
• This design is less efficient than the external parallel design

An  External Parallel system uses a traditional diesel engine. The motor/generator is kept out of the conventional drive chain and connects to the driveshaft after the gearbox. If stand-alone generation is needed a clutch is required to disconnect the propeller shaft.  If the clutch fails, it can be manually engaged, providing additional redundancy.

We are pleased to be partnering with Hybrid Marine for the Antares Hybrid.  Graeme (CEO) and his team have been outstanding in their support of our project.  We share similar values, and the leadership and expertise Hybrid Marine brings to Antares are over fourteen years in this marine hybrid business.  The technology is proven, easily serviced, and redundant.

• The best overall solution that meets our criteria
• 14 years of parallel hybrid experience in the marine industry
• Yanmar UK in partnership with Hybrid Marine (same engine we use on new GT)
• Member of ISHY (Implementation of Ship HYbridisation) since 2019

Another advantage of a hybrid, is the ability for the electric motor to serve a dual purpose and generate power.  As the boat is sailing, you can generate power to top up the Lithium batteries and power your onboard appliances.

For comparison, the power curves for the Hybrid Marine system we are using is very similar to the Watt & Sea 600 hydro generators.  The power curves are below.

Power Consumption Scenarios

We must answer the ultimate question, ‘ So What? ‘  How does the NEW Antares Hybrid affect daily life aboard the boat?  What do the power consumption scenarios look like, and why does this matter?

The following consumption scenarios are based on real-world numbers provided by Antares owners.  The solar generation numbers are based on a 30-day test in tropical conditions with Panasonic HIT panels aboard s/v Field Trip.  We have done our best to provide realistic numbers.  However, every boat owner is different, so the numbers will vary from owner to owner.

All appliances and cooking are assumed to be electric, with no LPG onboard.

The conservative model provides plenty of excess power regardless of the cruising season.  1,800 watts of solar power is sufficient to live comfortably, while completely independent of fossil fuels.

The 40 kWh of Victron Lithium allows for luxurious living.  This scenario has either the port or starboard aft cabin running the AC for four hours every day AND making hot water for showers and washing dishes.  This gives the owner anywhere from 1.5 – 3 weeks of luxury, without ever needing to start an engine to recharge the batteries.

Using a combination of the two models, it is possible to still run the AC periodically, heat the water, and still have a neutral carbon footprint.

Passagemaking consists of about 10% of the total time living aboard an Antares.  This 10% is when you may need to use the electric motors to leave an anchorage or marina.  When underway, averaging seven knots, the daily surplus of power (10kW – 11kW) is plenty of power to not only recharge the 40kWh of Victron Lithium but run A/C and any other devices on board.

This is a complex topic.  To put it simply, Antares will only use LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries in our boats.  The reason is simple.  LiFePO4 is the most stable chemistry and far less prone to issues like fire.  There is a reason why Victron and Mastervolt are ONLY using this chemistry for their marine batteries.

Other battery chemistries used by electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers are more efficient and have higher energy densities.  At present, we don’t believe this technology is ready for the marine environment.  A fire in a car on land is tragic and potentially life-threatening.  A fire aboard a boat 1,000NM from land or in a remote atoll is an entirely different matter.

Sometimes, several pictures and some recent data are all that is needed to put this topic to rest.

Key Benefits of Antares Hybrid

Pricing & Availability

Market Analysis Comparison

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Deep Blue Hybrid

Deep blue is a fully integrated propulsion and energy management system, industrially engineered and customizable with modular components. the result is exceptional performance, compliance with international safety standards, and highly intuitive operability.

• Relaxation: no noise from the motor and only a little noise from the generator
• Environmental protection: use renewable forms of energy
• Independence: adequate energy on board, less need to head for a marina
• Convenience: simple joystick docking
• Simplicity: only one type of fuel – and less of it required

System Overview of the Hybrid Drive System

System Components

High-capacity lithium battery technology.

Lithium-based batteries are the technology of choice for electric mobility applications. They store significantly more energy than all other batteries, they maintain a high current, they do not lose their charging capacity, they supply power reliably, and have no memory effect. They also have a much longer useful life than lead-based batteries.

The benefits for customers:

• High energy density

• Lower costs

• Long service life

• Highest quality and safety standards

Dimensions and preliminary specifications

Click here to learn more about battery technology

Economical auxiliary power

Third-party generators can be integrated into the Deep Blue system via the DC generator interface developed by Torqeedo. The converter generators eliminate the fixed ratio between rotational speed, power and voltage output.

Integrated into the information, safety and energy management system of the Deep Blue Hybrid, the generators produce any combination of power and voltage as required, adopted to individual setting.

Third-party generators can be integrated into the Deep Blue system via the DC generator interface developed by Torqeedo, providing long-range motoring and efficient backup power for serial hybrid systems. The converter generators eliminate the fixed ratio between rotational speed, power and voltage output.

Integrated into the information, safety and energy management system of the Deep Blue Hybrid, the generators produce any combination of power and voltage as required, adopted to individual setttings.

Technical Data

Typical application areas

Perfect for ...

• Torqeedo Deep Blue Hybrid drives with shaft power from 25 to 100 kW (equivalent to 40 – 160 HP)

• Sailing yachts, ferries, water taxis, etc., with hull lengths from 40 to 110 feet (12 – 33 m)

Highly flexible thanks to four operating modes

The Deep Blue Advanced Energy Management System offers four ways of conveniently operating the hybrid system automatically:

Electrical drive power, on-board power and charging power of the highest standard

The Advanced Hybrid Control System for the Torqeedo Deep Blue Hybrid system controls the generator to optimum effect (single or twin installations). It provides a reliable supply of electricity for 360V DC boat drive systems as well as all other 110/230V AC and 24V DC power supply systems on board:

Hybrid and charging power for the Torqeedo Deep Blue system

• AC on-board power supply for galley, air conditioning, water maker and other electrical consumers on board (hotel loads)

• Low-voltage DC power for lighting, radio, navigation, winches, etc.

Always in control

Deep Blue Hybrid offers intuitive operation presented on the multifunctional display, providing a complete overview of the entire system and access to all control functions.

The software keeps an eye on everything and prevents errors like deep-discharging batteries. An easy-to-understand graphical user interface is available as either multihull or monohull and delivers complete, up-tothe- minute system visualisation.

Premium throttles

We’ve come to expect an intuitive way to operate our technical devices. We expect detailed information, nicely displayed and clearly arranged. We expect that the objects we use are both beautiful and functional.

This is what spurred us to create the new Torqeedo throttle family and improved user interface for Deep Blue.

Our premium throttles offer the right solution for every application, whether for sailboats or on motorboats – ergonomic, strong and functional. All premium throttles come with Bluetooth built in for simple integration of Torqeedo’s TorqTrac smartphone app.

Hybrid Drive System and Integrated Energy Management

Hybrid drive system.

Powerful and silent electric drive systems allow manoeuvring and sailing at hull speed.

High-performance batteries adapted from the automotive industry enable prolonged motor-cruising for up to 50+ nautical miles without use of a generator. Solar power generated on board and hydro-generated energy – the propeller rotates while boat is under sail – provide additional propulsion. Besides, the integrated generator provides sufficient energy to cover long distances, if required.

The slowly rotating electric drives allow precise maneuvering and in combination with joystick docking makes putting out to sea and berthing as easy as pie.

Integrated energy management

The integrated management system of Deep Blue Hybrid makes it possible to use available power in any way you wish – for the powerful high-voltage drive system, for the 24 V on-board power supply or to operate equipment with 230 V AC current. Deep Blue Hybrid is designed in such a way that energy is always available where it's needed.

The combination of energy generated from renewable sources and by the generator means that there is always sufficient power available. However, the generator does not need to run for as long.

Clean and safe electricity can be used for all equipment and so it is no longer necessary to have propane or petrol on board. A tender can also be run electrically and can be charged from the Deep Blue Hybrid on-board power system.

Professional Safety

Professional safety for your sailing yacht.

Particular attention should be paid to standards compliance and safety during the development of a hybrid drive system. During the years spent on developing the Deep Blue Hybrid system we followed safety concepts that, for example, are standard in the automotive industry – but which previously could not be found in powerful electric drive systems for electric sailing yachts.

In addition, electrical drive systems for electric sailing yachts pose special challenges that are not relevant for other industries. In this respect, it is not enough to just follow the standard of other industries for high-voltage boat drives. As we are used to setting new standards, we have done so with regard to safety. Below you will find a number of examples of the Deep Blue Hybrid's unique safety concept.

Isolation monitor: constantly monitors that the voltage from all 360 V components is completely isolated from the boat – not just for individual system components but for all of them. If damage is detected, e.g. to the cable insulation, the system will issue an alert. In the event of dangerous insulation failure, the system will be shut down.

All components are waterproof: Components that were not specifically developed for boats are not always waterproof. All the components of a high-power system on a boat must be waterproof to guarantee safe operation. That is why all of our components are waterproofed.

Automotive industry-level battery safety: The first lithium batteries for the marine industry with the advanced quality standards of the automotive sector are the result of Torqeedo's collaboration with established battery manufacturers. Integrating a battery into a drive system and the associated safety concept alone requires considerable effort that can only be achieved by working together with the battery manufacturer.

Battery venting: In the unlikely event that the redundant safety mechanisms of the battery fail, the battery cells can reduce their temperature and pressure via a pressure valve. While batteries are installed in electric cars in such a way that they can discharge battery gases directly onto the road, on electric boats the gases must be channelled safely off the vessel. We developed the first safe venting system for boats for the Deep Blue System.

Battery damping: All components on fast and seagoing boats are subject to constant high levels of shock that exceed shock levels on the road – in some cases over 12 g of acceleration force. The same holds true when trailering the boat. Since batteries and battery electronics are not designed for these constant impacts, they need their own damping system on boats (in addition to the damping mechanisms within the battery). Torqeedo is the only company in the world that provides this for maritime use.

Benefits for Boatbuilders

Custom-built solutions are often pursued in order to meet a user's requirements. These individual hybrid projects raise a number of difficulties:

• High-end components do not exist for the custom project. High-tech safe lithium batteries, for example, require an intensive design-in process in close cooperation with the battery manufacturer's research and development department. However, reputable high-voltage battery manufacturers do not supply their batteries for custom solutions that they are not familiar with and that have not been coordinated with them in detail.
• Creating an integrated hybrid system requires a comprehensive research and development project accompanied by many person-years in the field of development running to the tune of several million euros. These efforts are not undertaken for custom projects, leading to lower reliability and a lack of complex but important safety features (such as pilot lines).
• The system integrator has the statutory duty to ensure that the hybrid system complies with all the relevant and mandatory standards such as the Machinery Directive and the EMC Directive. Custom hybrid systems do not generally meet these standards. Since a boatbuilder is responsible for ensuring that the entire boat complies with standards, the installation of custom-built hybrid systems constitutes a serious risk for boatbuilders.

Unlike custom-built hybrid systems, DEEP BLUE HYBRID addresses the requirements of environmentally aware customers, offering a turnkey solution that guarantees compliance with the relevant norms and standards.

• DEEP BLUE HYBRID was created in an extensive research and development project involving a large number of mechanical and electrical engineers over several years. The components were carefully selected and coordinated with an overall system. Essential inspections and certifications were performed at system level.
• High-end components such as hybrid batteries from the automotive industry were integrated into the system.
• Torqeedo assumes responsibility for the functionality and compliance with relevant standards for the whole system.
• DEEP BLUE HYBRID was developed on the basis of modular components. It allows flexibility and scalability without affecting system integration and reliability.
• DEEP BLUE HYBRID for electric ferrys, electric sailing yachts, electric catamarans & electric water taxis.

If we have awakened your interest in our products we would be pleased to send you more detailed information. Simply enter your details in the contact form below and we will get in touch with shortly.

54’ Ocean Renegade R5 - A Unique Solar Hybrid Electric Sailing Catamaran

54’ Ocean Renegade R5 Catamaran

A Unique Solar Hybrid Electric Sailing Catamaran

If you cross the pond and head south to a place feared by mariners for as long as the Cape of Good Hope has been mapped, you will find Ashley Dee. He is a yacht builder with a vision for the future and a zeal for fast sailing catamarans. He has constructed some of the most advanced carbon re-enforced, electrically propelled sailing catamarans on the market and he has expanded his build capability to satisfy the American market. Ashley led the construction the 2020 54’ Ocean Renegade R5 Catamaran named ‘Oxygen’ and with the assistance from Nova Luxe, the boat arrived in St. Petersburg, FL in October from Cape Town, South Africa. Alternating between thrill and relaxation with a sport-minded, hybrid sailboat. The Ocean Renegade series is as keen on seizing the winds as it is cruising independently while you entertain. The vessel is tightly engineered to fit all of the comforts of a live-aboard boat, but when you’re behind the helm, sails like a race boat. And like the rest of the NOVALUXE fleet, the Ocean Renegade series features emission free solar/electric technology that preserves places worth going, and gets you there without the need to stop for diesel. Local Captain Scott MacGregor with Redbeard Boatworks has had the pleasure to pilot this unique vessel on a number of charters around Tampa Bay “The boat is very responsive due to it being lightweight. It is a wonderful sailing vessel which smoothly slides through the water at almost wind speed,” says Captain MacGreggor. “The setup of the sailboat lends itself nicely to the operation with the center wheel that articulates so you can see the sails as well as the ease of the controls of the running rigging due to its location. The all electric engines make motoring quiet, quite a change from a diesel engine vibrating through the boat with the exhaust gases.” “The sail plan with the code 0 really helps move the boat along. It will sail very close to the wind and will reach back to about 120-130 degrees wonderfully. The self tacking jib makes tacking easy as well.” “In all, it is a well thought out platform and a very performance first catamaran sailboat. Long distance cruising aboard this vessel is easy and with the electrical systems the fuel dock you would not need to be a stop along the way!” To say that Oxygen is a well equipped boat would be a huge understatement. Launched at the end of 2020, she is the yard's third electric catamaran and without a doubt the most capable. Equipped with the Torqeedo Deep Blue system, the gold standard in electric yacht propulsion, and for good reason. This catamaran was built in epoxy eglass with extensive carbon reinforcing and construction, including the entire coachroof and all spars.

She has the galley and salon volume of a much larger yacht and with her twin forward sailing cockpit doors together with her large aft cockpit doors, she possesses amazing flow and energy as one moves fore and aft. Amazing views of what’s ahead and below from the overhanging unstayed carbon longeron down the center of her bow. Move aft via her secure sailing handling cockpit, all the way back to her huge "dock-like" stern scoops to enter the warm Florida waters.

Under sail she is a pleasure to manage from her secure sailing cockpit with the electric line driver and primaries making her capable of push button sail trimming of the Jib-sheet, main-sheet, and traveler at the same time, from one position. She can also be sporty and rewards an eager crew with a deck gear plan and extended longeron that is able to fly dual headsails. This is especially useful in light air.

The 54’ Ocean Renegade R5 Catamaran, Oxygen is an incredible yacht and available now, ready to cruise, with beautiful finishings and extensive cruising equipment.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSlqITUqauQ&authuser=0

For more information about the Ocean Renegade R5 Catamaran available through Tampa Yacht Sales contact Chris Crane (813) 563-2128 for more information.

Have a questions? Let us know!

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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.

First Ever HH44 Hybrid Electric Catamaran

It’s finally here, the first sea trials aboard the new HH44!  The anticipation has been palpable, and we feel a bit like kids on Christmas morning.  Hoping we get everything we’ve asked for and a few surprises too.

Because this is a brand-new design from the ground up, not simply a variation on an older model.  And while this may not be our boat, it’s mighty close.  And the owner of hull number one, S/V BLISS, along with a long line of future owners are all eager to see how she will handle.

These sea trials are all about testing the boat and the systems in every way.  Will she point, how is the motion and noise, how much regen will we get…so many things!  HH will push everything to the max to ensure the vessel meets the safety and strength of their design specs.  Which includes flying a hull!

Needless to say, we are pleased as punch to be a part of this whole process and spoiler alert, she does not disappoint!

We are over the moon about the boat, all her potential and of our course, finally having a home again.  It’s so close we can taste it, or maybe that’s just the leftover salt on my lips…

Flying A Hull Is About Safety

Flying a hull and foiling is going to become more and more standard as boats evolve.  We’ve already seen it with racing and it is the natural evolution as designs improve.  But, it sounds scary to some and reckless to others.  But with HH, it’s all about safety.  Paul and I talked about this a lot during our factory tour: gonewiththewynns.com/boat-building-details

HH designs their boats with a high power to weight ratio, not with the intention of flying a hull, but to give the boat great light air performance (sailing on light wind days is certainly safer). The ability to fly the hull is by-product of that.  And as we say in the video: most HH owners aren’t racing and will never fly a hull on their own.  But, without that high power to weight ratio, a sailboat will never perform well in light air.

HH engineers, perhaps even over engineers, everything!  The structures, the appendages, the deck gear, the ropes and the sails are all spec’d to handle the maximum possible load that the boat can produce (which occurs at hull fly).

So during sea trials, in order to test everything and make sure the boat is strong enough, and up to HH standards, the boat must be pushed to the MAX.  Skilled captains (such as Chris and Ben), have the task of taking all the equipment to maximum load.  But flying a hull on the HH44 is a seriously skilled effort.  They had to throw out the reefing guide and work hard, and you can see their concentration in the video.  Flying a hull isn’t something that is easy to accidentally do.

Which is why you won’t catch us, or most other HH owners, ever doing so.  But it does give us peace of mind knowing our boat is strong enough to do so with extra safety margins built in.  (Just incase we ever get caught in freak squall or a massive storm)

The alternative to flying a hull at sea trials, are AWS (Apparent Wind Speed) limits which are set by the builder (and its what most builders do).  Which is why it’s important to follow reefing guides set on cruising boats or you risk a dismasting, breaking equipment, structural failures and so on.  But according to HH, this should never happen on one of their boats.  Because they have already tested it at max pressure to make sure the boat doesn’t break.

If it’s safer to build a boat stronger, then why build a boat to AWS limits?  Simple:  It is cheaper (and lighter) to build a catamaran with AWS limits. Everything can be downsized: equipment, mast, rigging, sails, and even the structure can be built cheaper with less laminate and lower quality resins.  But this isn’t the route HH takes.  And for us, it’s that design and engineering philosophy that really sets them apart from other catamaran manufacturers.

🎥 CAMERA GEAR USED TO FILM THIS VIDEO

• gonewiththewynns.com/photo-video-gear

🎶 MUSIC IN THIS VIDEO

• Artists – Out of Flux, Flint, Jozeque, Sero, Yarin Primak

🎨 CREATIVE ASSETS IN THIS VIDEO (SFX, TEMPLATES & PRESETS)

• https://bit.ly/motion-array-GWTW

🙏 WE COULDN’T MAKE THESE VIDS WITHOUT YOU!

Thank you for watching!  Ups, downs, and all around, we share it all. If you like what you see, there are lots of  ways you can show your support.

Hello there! I honestly don’t know what to say, so I am going to tell you a bunch of random facts instead. I'm a fish eating vegetarian who hates spiders and loves snakes. I almost never took vacations growing up. I wanted to be Pippi Longstocking (still do). I misspell about every other word I write and still struggle with grammar. I love splurging on a good high tea (which is really hard to find these days). And whatever you do, don’t tell me I can’t do something, because then I'll HAVE to do it!

Comments (21)

The best video you have put out. I’d like to see a video of just the boat sailing, lots of drone shots and music. Your excitement is catching. We’re ready to see your boat tested.

Awesome video, incredible sailing and monster smiles all around the vessel! So was part of the 10 days for the commissioning crew, sailing from the factory to France?

Curious Minion

No, Bliss wasn’t finished in enough time to sail her to the Cannes boat show, so she was shipped over. Plus, that’s about 11,000 nautical miles, give or take a few hundred. It would take more like 2 months than 10 days. More than the commissioning crew signed on for I’ll bet! Curious Minion

Just say WOW!! Amazing video too!

You have come a long way from the Bounder! It has been awesome following along on your adventures.

Alan Solomon

Wow. Incredible video. Great and continuous action. You must be so excited. I am excited for you. Worth the wait. Flying high on a beautiful day with great seas.

Loved the video. Is there a provision to close in the helms during inclement weather?

so excited for your new boat after this video. Rock and Roll!

WOW! I am so excited for you kids, what with your beautiful boat almost ready to pick up! It was amazing to see how technical all of the line handling was with the crew on board. What a great way for you to experience a preview of your own. It was hard to believe that just the two of you will be able to control so many things all at once, but I have faith that you will be perfectly adept at doing so. Thanks for sharing this fantastic cat with us!

Where’s the back scoops allowing for all the easy land excursions?

They fold up while you’re underway – genius! I think they talk about/show them in the intro vid here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZKycrQ7_aI0&t=728s or you can head over to the HH44 webpage to see them. Curious Minion

David Lintner

Excellent. I’ve never seen smiles as big as yours.

Does HH expect to be able to fly a hull with your version of the 44 since it has minikerld and winglets instead of daggerboards??

Peter Lawson

Thanks for the video. Well done. What is the exact Highfield dinghy model shown on the HH 44 hull #1 and what dinghy motor has Nicolai selected? Peter Lawson

so here is a dumb Question when they are doing the break in , if something breaks who pays for it and any idea how long will that delay the finial pick up or receiving the boat?

There’s no such thing as a dumb question! I believe the boat is still officially HH “property” when the sea trails happen for exactly that reason. With Hull #1 of any new design, the engineers have reasonable expectations of how she’ll perform, but the final proof is in the pudding as they say. It’s in the company’s best interest to hand over a boat that is as perfect as it can be made, so by retaining ownership they’re assured that they can fix any issues that crop up in sea trials. As for delays, that depends on what they break I guess! If this video is any indication, they didn’t find any huge issues with Bliss. Curious Minion

Deresky Martin

There are also insurance and certification issues that mandate a formal “trial” to prove the fundamental sailing and operational systems. In some countries this is pedantic inasmuch as you have to show the nav lights work with and without the motors while underway in more than a moderate chop.

Thanks for that additional info. Makes sense that they’d have to do that. Curious Minion

Just WOW! I bet your faces hurt from all the grinning.

Mike McHale

So excited for you guys can’t wait to see the new boat. It was a great video the crew were so professional Nikolai is got to be head over heels, and the same thing is going to happen to you. Glad to be a patron and will continue to support in the future, thanks again. Mike McHale

Fred Bugden

Impressive boat . You guys chose wisely.

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Description

The first HH44 was launched in 2023 and premiered at the Cannes International Yachting Festival. This innovative design is the “baby” of the HH Catamarans range and has some interesting features such as her closed transoms, swing aft helms and a side boarding gate aft.

She’s a very pretty cat and will turn heads in the marina. This is HH’s first hybrid electric-powered catamaran although you can also opt for standard diesel power with shaft drives.

There are 2 versions, like much of the HH range. The Sports Cruising model: HH44-SC and the Ocean Cruising model: HH44-OC. The SC version is a “no-compromise-boat” with C-shaped carbon daggerboards, a carbon rig, a painted hull finish and 4,232 watts of solar with EcoDrive.

The OC saves you some money with the same hull, interior fit and finish quality as the sportier SC but with an aluminium mast, e-glass longeron, white gelcoat finish and mini-keels as standard.

Many of the ideas on this boat have been driven by a desire to maximise solar generation. There are 4,232W of peak solar on the cabin top alone with an option for more on the davits.

To maximise the solar, they have positioned the helms aft in a traditional sporty set-up. That way, there’s plenty of surface area up top to load on solar.

To help you stay protected in weather, these swing inboard, under the long coach-roof.

There are foldaway seats that tuck into the sides allowing you to either steer the boat from an outboard position with the wind in your hair and your sails’ tell-tales in full view.

Or swing the helms inboard and steer from the protected three-seat sofa on the aft beam.

To make it easy to board the boat in the marina, there is a side gate aft for when you come in along the dock.

The HH44 has been designed to sail. The whole idea behind this catamaran is to get sailing in light winds (you should match wind speed on a beam reach) and to maximise your SOG over a wide range of conditions.

So she has a self-tacking staysail, a solent, a fractional reacher and a furling gennaker. The boom is very low over the coach-roof which keeps the centre of effort from the mainsail low.

There is a traveller aft on the coach-roof to manage your mainsail shape. The HH44 points well into the wind (45 TWA) thanks to her C-shaped daggerboards which provide a bit of lift at speed.

All the lines come back to the helm, so she is set up for short-handed sailing.

• Light, rigid and fast, the HH44 is a great sailor
• Swing aft helms give you flexibility while opening up the living space in the aft cockpit
• The finish on this boat  is excellent
• Those closed transoms create a safe enclosed living space. They’ll also save you money in the marina
• A great looking boat that should hold her value well in the market due to the high demand
• The EcoDrive strikes a great balance between electric motoring with back-up diesels for safety
• With those aft helms, visibility is reduced towards the opposite bow, although the sight lines through the salon windows is good.
• This is not a cheap yacht
• The forward cabin is cosy. There is an option for a Pullman berth here (or convert to a workspace)
• The bow lockers seem small, although they are deep

Light Construction

Carbon and epoxy have been used to build as strong and stiff a yacht as possible while minimising the weight.

All of the lines run under the decks, so you have clear walkways around the boat. Stanchions are 900mm tall and a continuous, unbroken toe rail runs the length of the deck with all hull and deck joints fused and hidden.

Living Space

Moving inside, you’ll notice that the aft cockpit and salon forms one fully protected space with a large sofa on the aft beam and her closed transoms make this a safe family boat.

The angular cabin has two large, forward-facing windows that open fully from the the generously sized (187 sq ft or 17.4m2) salon. The standing height is over 2m (6’6”) high throughout.

One of the things that sets the HH44 apart from her competition is the quality of the finish on this semi-custom yacht.  She has foam core furniture and exceptional joinery throughout, and Bosch electric appliances as standard.

There are two options for a BBQ, one which replaces the aft sofa with a large LPG BBQ & Dive Tank station or you can mount an LPG Grill in the aft fishing rod holder, keeping the aft sofa. There is an outlet on the aft beam so you can run an electric BBQ.

In the salon, there is an L-shaped sofa with a table forward to starboard and a large nav station/workstation to port.

Tuck yourself into the U-shaped galley behind the nav station or pull out some cold ones from the fridge on the starboard side. The ventilation at anchor is excellent with those huge forward windows.

The starboard hull is the owner’s side and consists of the master cabin aft and a walk-in shower and head forward. The finish has an Italian feel to it and it is very light down here with a large window aft in the owner’s cabin.

This is a 44 foot performance cat, so there is not as much room down her as you’d find in a cruising cat, but she has ample space in the aft cabin and the storage is well organised.

HH offers three different forward cabin combinations. One is the standard layout with a single berth.

The second has a Pullman berth above the standard bed that folds away when not needed.

A third option does away with the beds and replaces them with a large work bench with shelves (for pantry storage or tools) and an extra Fridge/Freezer unit.

If you go for the option with the EcoDrive, the House Bank is powerful enough to run the A/C overnight without the need to run a generator. There is enough power to run the A/C in the master cabin for over three days.

EcoDrive, her Electric/Diesel Parallel Hybrid System The HH44 was designed from scratch to work with a parallel electric/diesel hybrid, with a minimum of 4,232W of peak solar array on the cabin top and hydro-regeneration while sailing.

EcoDrive gives you silent fume-free motoring at 7.5kts, fast torque for manoeuvring, and hydro-regeneration while sailing. Plus you have parallel, trusty diesel engines for safety.

A diesel engine is paired with a large electric motor, much like an alternator sits on a traditional diesel engine. A belt links the two units and a camshaft allows you to flip between the two power systems, giving you good redundancy. And remember, you have 2 of these systems on board!

The system is designed to offer from 1.5 to 3 hours of electric propulsion: more than enough time to exit the marina or anchorage and hoist the sails.

This boat has been designed to get sailing in light winds which ultimately is the key to an eco-friendly sailing yacht. And you will be recharging your batteries as you sail.

You can also fit the HH44 with traditional standalone diesel engines with shaft drives.

The HH44 is an innovative design that will appeal to sailors setting out across long distances who want to sail more and beat well to windward when needed. This yacht is in a different price league to something like an Aventura 37 of course, but there are two options here: the Sports Cruising and the Ocean Cruising models.

She’s a comfortable boat, although there is a trade-off on space down below particularly in the forward cabins.

With the EcoDrive option and a bow locker full of sails, you’ll be able to minimise your diesel usage on this boat while crossing oceans safely and quickly.

What is the price of an HH44? How much do they cost? The sportier HH44-SC starts at $1,325,000. Meanwhile the HH44-OC version starts at $957,000 USD. The total cost will vary depending on your options, but you should budget an additional $300k, perhaps more for the SC.

How much solar is there on the HH44? The HH44 has a generous 4,232W of peak solar as standard on the SC on the cabin top. You can fit 1,200W watts over the Davits, but this comes with a weight penalty.

What is the length of the boat with transoms up? With the transoms up, the LOA from davits to Bow Sprit is 14.23m (46.68 feet), so fine for a 15m berth.

What size tender can you carry? The optimum sized tender is 3-3.5m (10-11 foot). The davits are carbon fibre and will soak up a high load.

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Experience the pleasure of extended anchoring or overnighting without running a generator! The large propulsion battery bank (compared to standard house battery banks) enables much longer silent intervals; you can run all creature comforts (air conditioning, heating, refrigerator/freezer etc...) without the need to run a generator all night.

The Oceanvolt platform is designed and installed to become the complete power solution for the entire boat - including the 12V (or 24V) service power system as well as all other appliances/other comfort equipment (110/220V outlets). Range and recharging are achieved either through hydro generation or through a DC generator which can enable constant long-range cruising or bringing batteries up to a full charge in less than 2 hours.

Hydro generation is particularly suitable for catamarans as twin (or quad) motors means double (or quadruple) the energy. Catamarans also cruise more easily at faster speeds which means that regeneration capabilities are significantly higher (hydro generation capability increases significantly at speeds over 6kn).

Oceanvolt also offers repowering solutions for conversion of existing diesel engines – removing the diesel engine, fuel tanks and exhaust system - cleaning up greasy engine compartments and freeing up both weight and space below deck.

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 winterization (no annual engine maintenance costs).

Oceanvolt offers Hybrid or Electric systems in partnership with a wide range of multihull designers and boat builders. Multihull configurations are typically either twin systems or, in the case of larger cats, quad systems.

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NOVA LUXE builds hybrid electric catamarans with an unlimited range and a top speed that excites!  Our Electric Light Ships (ELight) range from 39-110’. Our sailing yachts are high performance. We also work with traditional manufacturers to deliver new electric yachts to discerning customers. We re-fit used power catamarans to be electric and have developed the 25k electric re-fit for mono-hulls between 25-40’.

Love to sail?

Nova luxe sailing (nls), has been added to the fold for their expertise in fast sailing catamarans. they have completed 6 yachts in the last 5 years and they share our off grid facility in cape town, sa. the sailing range starts at 39’ and reaches into the 65’ space. when the wind is blowing, you will pass powerboats.     the experienced team has  built more electric yachts than any other builder in south africa.

Unlimited range and a top speed that excites is only possible in the new line of zero emission luxury yachts by Nova Luxe. Requiring only a captain, these blue water vessels have no limit. All components are tried and tested, industry best. 

Hear only the wind as you

enjoy the Italian villa inspired woodwork. No vibration

or odor from diesel engines.

Clean, efficient power in a form you’re accustomed to.

Elon Musk believes all combustion engines will be replaced with more capable electric engines. He and many other electronic pioneers, like our partner Torqeedo, have created the equipment to make this possible.

Nova Luxe Yachts feature hulls that are specially designed to maximize stability and safety in the most inclement conditions. Our technical team is continually working to optimize weight ratios to further improve performance across the range.

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The ELIGHT series by NOVALUXE is more capable than any other yacht in her class. She can be operated in silence all day long. Her solar array more than covers the house load day and night. Her range is over 800 miles and our Parallel (P) hybrid model can sustain speeds over 15 knots for multiple days.

Travel anywhere for any amount of time, luxuriously.

Learn more about our Solar Electric

Re-fit options, remote consulting and electrical system design services are only a few of the elite services that nova luxe offers. click the button below to learn more about our re-fit options and browse some of our featured selections below. , marine equipment dealer.

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"Nova Luxe Yachts is the premier vendor for electric catamarans.  We offer new power and sail catamarans as well as re-fit services.  We provide clear range and performance estimates at the onset of the project and work with the buyer to source all necessary components for the build.  We are not an agent who works on behalf of any single hull manufacturer. Re-fit purchases are made through each manufacturers existing distribution channels."

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Buying or selling a boat? Let us help you coordinate your sea trial, survey, and delivery. Tell us what you need. We are here to help. 

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Let your journey begin with Sailicity with all-inclusive sailing experiences. We foster the spirit of sailing and craft personalized and unique voyages tailored to discriminating guests. Tell us where you want to go, and we will plan the rest. We partner with an array of dynamic fleets designed to combine luxury lifestyle and the travel freedom of a memorable sailing experience. We have the privilege to provide guests with alternative social gatherings by hosting socially distant events on the sea, making all feel safe and exclusive.

Our Charter Concierge will craft private charters from half-day, weekend, or up to 14-day voyages. We have multiple types of charters; that sail anywhere in Florida along the Atlantic coast in the spring and fall with our Summer base in New England and our Winter Home in the Caribbean. Sailicity’s concierge service removes the headaches of planning and will take care of all the small details with industry-leading experts.

Our mission is to provide you the sailing experience of your dream. Make an appointment to speak to a Charter Concierge at no cost.

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Your Charter Concierge will help you create an experience you and your family will never forget. Celebrating a special occasion? Take the family on vacation? Explore incredible sights you can only see by water? We are here to help!

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We amplified the concept of micro weddings with the creation of Weddings on the Water. Our venue focuses on personalized details for a brief ceremony at anchor for the bride and groom and up to 10 additional guests. 

We will provide wedding planning services, coordinating Florist, Videographer, Photographer, and Caterers to create a memorable experience. The Ceremony can be followed by cruises to resort destinations around Florida’s Gulf.

It took years of planning and effort to get to this point in your life.  There is no better way to celebrate and say thank you to the people who helped you get here. Your day has come, and we strive to meet all your expectations when planning your retirement holiday. 

Your celebration may be a catered dinner and sunset sail or a weeklong excursion, combining sailing, golf, dining, and tennis as we traverse Florida’s Gulf coast and visit some of our finest resorts.

Birthdays & more

Celebrate the time of your life with the people you love aboard a well-appointed crew yacht. Whether it is a milestone or not, let our special event planner help you celebrate in style. 

We will suggest menu options and provision for day cruises for up to 12 guests or overnight retreats for up to three couples. It can be the most memorable celebration of life.   Birthday yacht charters originate from the Vinoy Marina in St. Petersburg, FL, or Key Bight in Key West.

Why Sailicity Charters & Yacht Sales?

We remove the headaches of planning and will take care of the small details with industry-leading experts. We pride ourselves on taking the time to listen to your needs because WE CARE & have a passion for sailing.

We offer the chance to climb aboard the best boats from world-class manufacturers. Our boats combine maximum comfort blended with high performance.

It takes years of experience to know the different types of sailing vessels and how to determine which one is best for you. We are here to guide you to ensure you receive the best value on the type of boat you want.

We’re sailors. We are here to give you a sailing charter experience you will never forget. Start planning your sail today.

The possibilities are endless! Our beautiful Bali Catamarans are always based at ports during high season in the region. Our Concierge Service will help you plan your sailing adventure and build itineraries that are all about you.

A bareboat charter or demise charter is an arrangement for the chartering or hiring of a ship or boat, whereby no crew or provisions are included as part of the agreement; instead, the people who rent the vessel from the owner are responsible for taking care of such things. We are happy to arrange bareboat charters for qualified sailors who choose to go it alone. However, our specialty is to help you connect with knowledgeable captains and competent crew members to enhance your sailing experience by organizing your provisioning, planning your sailing itineraries, helping you manage meals and the galley and keeping you safe during your sailing adventure. Learn More .

Learn more about yacht ownership here . 

Parking and Transportation

May 3-6 Parking Notice: To provide clean and safe parking facilities, Hospital Parking Ramp 1 will be closed for maintenance. 

Vehicles will not be permitted to enter the parking ramp beginning at 4 p.m. on Friday, May 3, and vehicles need to be removed by 6 p.m. Friday. The parking ramp will re-open at 3 a.m. on Monday, May 6. See complete details.

Fleet Services Newsletter, April 2024

New wright express fuel credit cards are here.

New WEX cards have arrived and we have already begun swapping them out. Through May both the old and new cards are active, so in order to get the new card you must bring your old card to our office. If your drivers are based outside of Iowa City, please contact our office to arrange exchanging those cards. The old cards will expire at the end of May so beginning June 1 st a card can be picked up without turning in the old card. 

Don’t forget that If you have a fuel card for a lawn mower, generator, boat motor, pump or other piece of equipment, those cards are expiring too!!  Please bring the old card to our office and we’ll exchange it.

The Diesel Blend is a Changin’

As the weather warms up our blend of diesel fuel will be changing. The most recent load we received is B-10 (containing 10% Biodiesel) and the next load will be B-20 (20% Biodiesel). We will have this more sustainable higher bio blend through the warmer months before we transition back for winter.

Lee County Speed Cameras

Some of our vehicles traveling for Spring Break received speed camera tickets from Lee County Iowa, speed cameras that quite frankly were not on our radar (pun intended). There are 6 total cameras along Hwy 218 / IA 27 near Donnelson, Charleston, and Argyle Iowa. Check out their website with a map of the camera locations and a breakdown of the fee schedule. Per policy, the driver of the vehicle is responsible for paying all violations. 

Take the Distracted Driving Awareness Pledge! 

April is Distracted Driving Awareness month. What is distracted driving? It can be anything that takes your attention away from the road, like talking on the phone, texting, eating, or even just messing with the radio. Similarly to the impairment of drunk driving, distracted driving can slow your reaction time, make it difficult to focus on the road, and impair your ability to drive safely. In 2022, 3,308 lives were lost as a result of distracted driving. If you need to talk on the phone, pull over to a safe location. If you need to change the radio, wait until you are stopped at a red light. Just remember, you cannot drive safely unless the task of driving has your full attention. Check out the link to NHTSA’s page with more information and where you can take the pledge to not drive distracted. If you have children or a partner ask them to take the pledge too! 

Honest Mikes Used Cars

We have a nice variety of vehicles live for auction on GovDeals right now. We have a 2016 White Chevy Silverado 2500 with 4wd, a double cab, and only 37k miles. Also live right now is a 2019 silver Chevy Malibu with 67k miles and a 2014 silver Nissan Frontier 4x2 with super low mileage, just less than 11k. If a minivan is what you fancy we have a couple of those too. Currently listed is a Silver 2018 Grand Caravan with 58k miles and a white 2019 Grand Caravan with 45K miles. Take a look at our auction page on GovDeals .

Parking a Personal Vehicle During a Rental Reservation

When you pick up one of our rental vehicles, we always ask you to, “…park on the other side of the utility/telephone pole” in the middle of our lot.  That is at the far east side closer to Madison Street. Our lot has been extra full lately, so we need the space up front for folks to return vehicles. There is also less traffic on that side of the lot and less chance someone will bump into your vehicle.        

Fleet Factoid

GreenerCars.org has released their rankings for the “greenest” cars of the year. Surprisingly the winner was not a pure electric vehicle, it was a plug-in hybrid Prius Prime. The top 12 consists of seven battery EVs, two plug-in hybrids like the Prius, and two gas-electric hybrids. Unlike other evaluations that only look at fuel-efficiency, GreenerCars scores vehicles on their entire environmental impact. GreenerCars looks at the greenhouse gas and pollutant emissions from the production of the vehicle, its use, and the disposal of the vehicle. The takeaway is that simply running on electricity is not enough to guarantee that a car is “green”, factors such as weight, battery size and overall efficiency also matter.  Check out the full rankings .