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OUR NEW HYBRID ELECTRIC CATAMARAN

We’ve been building our dream boat “in theory” for years.  Which has never been in the form of sketches but rather a list of features that would create the most self-sufficient boat possible.  Because…

Self-Reliance + Sustainability = Freedom

Self-Reliance:  To rely on our own resources and limit our need for a marina or fuel dock.

Sustainability:  Thinking about what we do today and how it will affect next week, next year, the next decade, and so on.  It’s the recognition that we’re all part of a living system and that everything we do impacts the world around us.

In other words, we want to be out in the world living and exploring for as long as possible.  Both in terms of not having to worry about our resources or our habitat disappearing.  It’s practical, not political.

And we know we’re not the only ones seeking this kind of freedom because we have you! Our community of like-minded people we’ve been having this exact conversation with for the past decade.  It doesn’t matter if you are in an RV, Tiny House, Sailboat, Motorboat, Homestead, Farm, Ranch, or Off-Grid Island Resort…at the end of the day, we’ve all connected over our love for nature and our desire to be in it.

This new HH44 is a continuation of that conversation and desire.  This is not the ultimate, all-time perfect eco boat or zero-footprint anything.  Not even close.  It’s the best option that we could find working with viable, available solutions.  It’s the type of innovation we want to support, encourage, and see way more of.  Selfishly of course.  Because we would love nothing more than to one day announce our all-time perfect sustainable boat with living hulls made of oysters and other bivalve molluscs that naturally propel the boat as they filter feed and improve the water as we travel the world’s oceans.  It may seem preposterous now but, in my defence, prior to 1961 most people didn’t think humans would be living in outer space…so anything is possible.

But until then, here is the sexiest, most self-sufficient sub-50-foot sailing catamaran we will soon call home!

This is the beginning of a very exciting journey and because we share it with you (thank you for being a part of it) we want to hear your thoughts!  What are you most interested in as we build this boat?  What systems or features you would like us to dive into as things progress?  Is there a feature or a piece of tech you don’t see that you think we should consider?  We’re all ears and eyes!

Learn more about HH Catamarans:  hhcatamarans.com/hh44-wynns

Full Disclosure:  Transparency is important and we want you to understand our relationship with HH Catamarans, what it means and how it will affect our content.  The short answer is, that it won’t.  We did receive a small discount on the purchase of our boat in exchange for the publicity our HH44 Catamaran will inevitably receive (because we document our travels).  But we have purchased the boat and retain full creative freedom and continue to create as we always have, sharing our honest experiences.

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 (112)

So happy you guys are back on the water. Can’t wait to watch how the new boat performs and the places it will take you. Thanks so much for the entertainment and the hope that some day we can follow you in real life and not just on the screen.

Scott Robinson

GEL COAT !! Super stoked for you two !! HH44. Home run, you guys could not have picked a better platform for your edventures.

GEL COAT all the way. I built semi custom 90 to 100 foot yachts and to paint or gel coat was always the question. Every boat we built was gel coat for numerous reasons and all the owners always came back and thanked us for the push towards gel coat.

Look very fwd to seeing CURIOUS 2 come together.

Your next journey i think will start in Cebu, Philippines. Where it is being built. Goodluck with your new journey.

John Scaramuzzo

Congratulations and well done! I’m a monohull fan, but ai have to say that the new HH44 is the cat that could possibly sway me! The hybrid drive and solar capacity is amazing considering the boat lines are so clean and attractive! Wishing you all the best. I’m pretty sure you’re going to love it!

Matt - SV Cadence

Congrats, Jason and Nikki! The new sailboat is a dream come true! All the best.

The HH44 looks amazing! Great choice!

I’m still scratching my head to figure out how the lines magically go from the helm to the rooftop, as the saloon sides are almost all glass. 🙂

Robert Jensen

I predict the next year will find your excitement level building month by month. I do hope the folks at HH will let you do some filming of the boat during its build. RR2’s videos have been very entertaining in that regard.

Will you be sailing Curiosity in the meantime or have plans if she should sell right away?

You’ve got all of Australia, New Zealand and Queensland to explore and visiting parts of the country that are miserable in the heat of their summer are probably very comfortable as you enter their winter.

I mentioned in a post on your YT channel that selling your boat might be easier on the paperwork out of a US territory like Guam.

Congratulation you two..she looks awesome..have you thought of a name ?

Exciting times, congratulations! Looking forward to hearing all about the build and the unveiling. Will you break a bottle of champagne against the boat?

I know you guys are in New Zealand….wait I don’t really know that. Wondering what’s next while you wait for the new Cat. How long does it take to make a yacht? Ever think about starting a yachting school? Getting couples or people interested in sailing to take the plunge? Or back to the basic of sailing Wynn style videos. Good Luck Guys, Stay safe, be well!

Theresa Hislop

Wow,just watched your clip re your new dream boat(how exciting for you both!),now we are watching you tube on these beautiful catermarans,can’t wait to follow you on your next adventures and the progress of the build of curiosity2.Have a great time in South Island too,it will be cold,so wrap up🥶but it is truly beautiful 😍 Shane and Tee(we once helped Jason from having to swim to his dinghy at the Barrier😂😂😂

Jennifer Burton

Looks beautiful! Thanks for sharing all your lovely adventures!

YES! I guessed correctly! So excited for you guys.

I’m currently sailing from fort Lauderdale to Bristol RI, but I can’t wait to catch up on the videos when I get home next weekend.

Will the keel/dagger boards (?) be able to be raised in shallow water? Can the boat be made with larger foils? Can the underside be contoured with ribs or some such that can eliminate some of the wave noises under the center hull? (It could be added after the mold process, of course.)

Ron Grisoli

Nikki and Jason, Congratulations. The HH 44 OC is just gorgeous! I am so excited for you and look forward to more adventures in it. I’ve been following your sailing adventures for the past few months, and so  far, have resisted the temptation to watch them out of order. I’m on the video where you just landed in Ecuador.  However, when I saw this in my inbox, I just had to skip ahead to check it out. Awesome, sustainable technology that seems like it was made for you guys! I’m curious about the lines routed underneath the deck. How quickly could you change a sheet if one were to blow out? It certainly cleans up the deck and minimizes tripping hazards. What a beautiful yacht. Enjoy!

Daphne Church

Congrats you two! HH is a phenomenal brand and the HH/OC44 is I think their best most innovative offering yet. They are lucky to have you guys aboard as brand ambassadors. Just curious if there is actually a “business case” that can be made for the extra cost associated with the hybrid set up, or is it just the coolness/eco-friendly side of things that sold you? In one of your expense’s breakdowns, you list monthly fuel expenses on the Leopard at $86/month on average, so roughly $1k/yr. Even if you triple this amount to $3k/yr and assume zero motoring, the payback is over 25 years to pay for this option. We recently went through a similar buying decision and HH was one of our finalists, but I couldn’t make this particular feature make sense when compared to a lightweight higher performance boats this competes against with daggerboards that sips fuel at such a low clip and is a negligible portion of the budget. (Seems silly to talk about budgets when dealing with $1M boats!)

Anyway, I’d love to hear your take on this as you both are so eloquent in your story telling and your journey has definitely inspired ours. I’m assuming you’ve ordered a ZeroJet OC 350 as well to slap on the back of Clarity2, (that’s our plan) it would be great if you take delivery first and give us the full low-down! Keep up the great work and looking forward to following the new adventure.

Rupert Verwey

Hi Nikki and Jason, Rupert here from South Africa. I am so excited for you. I love the HH cats, just wish I could afford one. Heck, I cannot even afford your old Leopard cat…. :(…..maybe if I sell half my organs I might…..lol. my dream cat doesnt matter what hulls it have, I will demast it and build a solar roof from above the dingy all the way to the bow with electric drives. Kinda like the Silent 55 cat……my ultimate dream but way too expensive. So a cheapy will have to do. So I would be most interrested in the eco elrctrical system of your HH.

Jan Jenkins

Yep, Im really looking forward to you getting to know this new yacht too and sharing it with us. Very much so, only I didnt want to use that word that every man and his dog tend to (over)use beginning with EX and ending in D. Thanks to you two, I now believe cats are the pyjamas for cruisers. Gone over to the other side from the yachtsman point of view; though I still think a keelboat on a heel is a beautiful thing to behold. Not so keen on being in one anymore, but will be by your side (in the comfort of my home) in your future adventures. You really bring huge enjoyment to me whether you are having an exhilarating introduction to a new place/experience and I can empathise with the frustrations when things aren’t going right. Im sorry you cant spend more time cruising here in the North Island, the weather wasn’t the best for you this summer, but you might make it back here again! If Dan and Kiko have shown us electric motors are workable, you can show just how much more flexible you can make your routing. And maybe we will see paws on board again??

Tom Moffatt

Is CURIOSITY2 being built in Cebu, Phillipines, or in Xiamen, China? If Cebu, where is the factory? An exciting project and I am among the many that will be following along.

Thomas Chandler

Cebu — Lapu-Lapu City, Philippines

Judy Goodson

I am so excited for you both! I hope “Curiosity 1” is going to a good home. We’ve all gotten emotionally attached to her, you know. I know you’ve done your homework, so I’m sure you’re going to love your new home. Can’t wait to see her in person!

How exciting and after taking a break from current Curiosity, am sure you will maximise storage, minimise waste and only buy and use what you absolutely need. The extra storage room is just so practical, food supplies and easy access to what you need to maintain or secure your electronics – how great an option that suits you both. Look forward to having those open windows bringing in the fresh breeze but not needing endless maintenance and the open views will just make it an incredible usable space. Just curious – do you think the ceiling height is different than current? I am hoping you get to visit Phillipines during the build – or a virtual visit (hire a local videographer) to talk about the build process, features before they are hidden – as who knows you may not be upgrading and removing older items for some time yet we all seem interested in the new gear you research. I very much like the idea – not using diesel, but do turn it over, replace diesel as it does age and no longer become viable over time (night-time turn it on boost power after cloudy days). So looking forward to you personalising things even more – your coffee maker, the cups and plates, cushions, soft furnishings too.

Alan Solomon

Oh My God. I am soooo excited for you both. Congratulations on this incredible, exciting journey you both have created. Awesommmme!!!! Very excited for you both! I know nothing of boat construction, on-board instruments and machinery or sailing for that matter. I sense that there are a lot of good, informative thoughts, suggestions, and ideas in the 41 or so comments above me. You might consider checking em out, one-at-a-time. The new HH is so modern, precise, clean with minimal rounded edges it reminds me of something from another world! Alien-like! Congratulations on this great move and exciting choice. Looking forward to next Sunday and more smiles from you guys. Safe travels, Love and Joy,

Pam McClure

Jeff Parkinson

I’m so excited for you guys! Can’t wait to see you guys sailing on your new OC44! Wondering whether you chose the carbon fiber mast?

Juan Paredes

Congratulation for the selecting the right boat for your needs. Great peace of mind to know that that’s all figured out (at least on paper). Still very curious about why you did not go with an all EV/ Solar catamaran like Silent Yachts (other than money of course)? Non the less, congrats and looking forward to the delivery video and many more to come.

Jeanette Brennan

You both sound so wonderfully giddy with excitement, and rightly so! Excellent adventures ahead – enjoy all the time you spend with your families when you get there. Freedom will be yours as you hit the high seas (hopefully not too high) later on. Will her name be Curiosity 2 or will she be called Freedom? We’re all really excited to hear about your upcoming travels. Hurry back! Stay safe, healthy and happy. 💓🌊⛵️🌊🙏💓

Outstanding boat…what a beauty! Hard to wait to see the completed boat and have longer video tours of each area of the boat. Enjoy your time ashore and I eagerly await the upcoming adventures you will have. Someone mentioned in the comments that the boat is built in China…you said in the video that you are picking it up at the factory…is that correct and the plan?

Curious Minion

According to the HH website, HH44’s and 50’s are being built at the factory in Cebu, Philippines. Curious Minion

Mark Beresford

So excited for you…Curiosity 2 will be a trend leader for yachts for years to come…Will thereby any form of autonomous drive as we’re seeing in cars nowadays…Or is that still in the future for sailing yachts?

Umm, boats have had it for many years in the form of autopilot or purely mechanical self steering for navigation. Automatically reefing and trimming sails do exist but they are fiendishly expensive and would be a nightmare to maintain.

Are you keeping Minion ? I did not see a space for that. I assume it will be hanging aft.

Well they’re keeping *Curious* Minion, but not the Highfield dinghy Minion. They mentioned in the video about selling Curiosity that it’s just too difficult to try to store everything off of Curiosity until the new boat is ready. They are selling her soup to nuts to the new buyer, which is a selling point for them since they will be picking her up in NZ and sailing off from there. Curious Minion

Brian Higgs

TexasTumbleweeds would better describe your wanderings all over the world. Much better description of your helter skelter travels describing your lifestyle so make it the new name of your wandering boat !!!

I can’t wait to hear all about your trip home!!! I

I looked up the factory and I see there are several places that sell these catamarans. Where will you leave from?

I am so excited for you both! I hope that there are good years ahead with little and hopefully NO maintenance. It seems that you have been working so hard over the last few years. You need to have some fun again.

Finally, one of my favourite sailing youtube channel, owning an HH 44 eco catamaran. Looking forward to the experience and seeing how that will change the trend in sailing. Congratulation guys!

I bet you will be riding the HH45 open

Beautiful boat. How fun!!!! Can’t wait for your next adventures:):):)

Congratulations….so happy for you two.

I absolutely love C2. I have a small suggestion to push her from eco friendly to eco loving. Have you considered either a CNG (compressed natural gas) or dual CNG/diesel fuel? The advantage of having a fuel that won’t spoil and has a lower CO2 foot print. I realize you have already signed a contract and they may be a bit more expensive.

Which hull number will your boat be?

Chris Aulbach

I read that it will be hull #3.

Sorry for all the comments. I was one of those kids who was always asking questions and I’ve had 70 years of practice.

Have you looked into the wired helm controllers? I see them sometimes in the Nautistyles boat tours and Rico swears by them as they let you go up on deck during docking and are more reliable than using wireless ones.

Elizabeth Jo Collins.

Congratulations!!! WOW! I want that boat! You guys have a beautiful new boat, and I’m looking forward to seeing you aboard it soon. I do have a question about where the wash and dryer are located? I’m so excited and happy for you two. GOD Bless you and keep you smiling and sending us all updates. Many prayers and hugs to you.

I was expecting you to go with a little larger boat as you mentioned in your ‘Checklist’ video but I can see sacrificing size to get the other features you want.

Are you going to do a comparison video on Curiosity vs Curiosity 2?

I think you should add the extra solar over the dinghy. Speaking of dinghies, are you keeping the one you have now or going with something different? Solid hull ones seem to be popular. Adding a cover to protect from sun might be worth it too for the long run. Considering what happened during your eventful passage to New Zealand I’d be looking at a dinghy that is deflate proof. Also a better location for your liferaft. One where you can get at it faster and one that’s in a more secure location near the back of the boat.

I’m so happy for you guys it looks like a dream catamaran. Just one word of caution make sure H&H has cleared up any lawsuits it has with gun boat. All the designs at H&H has are stolen from American builders from the Chinese, why am I not surprised?

The son of the owner of HH looks a lot like Jason. When you go to pick up your boat don’t bring the wrong one home.

If the solar panels on the boat are custom I would see about buying a spare set as soon as you can so in case they become unavailable you’ll be covered for future repairs.

I hope SelfReliance isn’t the new name. It is so unimaginative. You can do better.

Your new catamaran looks amazing! Per your request, here are topics / questions I’d like to learn more about.

1. What color(s) did you choose for the hull?

2. What can you do now, or do differently with the new / enhanced features of this boat? (More time between provisioning, certain budget items will be more or less, etc.)

3. Suggestion: consider working with HH to create videos showing construction / build out of key areas. Could be an interesting series and benefit HH as well.

Buy a more comfortable chair for the Nav station. Maybe bug screens for those large windows when you open them. You’ll just use them at anchor in buggy locations, although they could keep out the flying fish too.

Considering your ‘Want list’ does HH have tight weather enclosures for the cockpit for those hot/cold/windy/high seas days?

Gregory Illes

I am intensely curious, perhaps you know: HOW does a 44′ catamaran get shipped from Xiamen to North Carolina? (I presume you’ll be receiving the boat in the US.)

The HH44’s are being built in Cebu, Philippines.

According to the HH website, all future HH44’s and 50’s are being built at the factory in Cebu, Philippines. And you can ship a boat or have it delivered anywhere (limited only by your willingness to write checks) but if Nikki and Jason plan to continue their circumnavigation, picking it up in the Philippines makes more sense. Based on the video, I guess we’ll all wait to find out! Stay tuned! Curious Minion

Im soooo jealous! How long is production meant to take?

July 2023 is the projected delivery date. Curious Minion

My suggestion is for the Nav station is to add a 32″ or larger, wide screen monitor that you can use for most of your sailing needs and then add either or the Mac Studios ($1999 or $3999) or a similar PC set up for video editing so you can both watch the helm and do your video editing at the same time. The power and speed of a workstation will cut down on your editing time and you’ve got the extra power on board you don’t have to skimp anymore. They’ve got the power so you both could work on it at the same time. You can network out to your laptops no matter where they are on the boat. In fact you might consider adding Cat 6 or better Ethernet during the boat build. Run them throughout the boat wherever you might want to use your laptop. Faster and better connection than wi-fi.

Add some Sonos speakers around the boat too. Hard to beat their sound quality and features.

You could easily add voice command via Alexa or Google so if there were an emergency while you were in bed you could instantly command a system to turn on or shut down. Great for turning on and off lights, tv, music, and controlling HVAC, security.

Tom Tessmer

AWESOME guys! Well…yeah that’s all I can think of…AWESOME!

Will you still have a dingy and if so where does it stow?

Jim Hawkings

I live in Nova Scotia, south shore, CANADA. Very near Halifax. I do have relatives in New Zealand. I would prefer a mig welded Cat or Trimaran.. is HH associated with any builders here in Canada. I am interested in having a livaboard as my mini-home.

I love this new name “SelfReliance” for your new boat

Where … did you got it ???? 😀

Happy sailing … Happy life !!!!

Self reliance should be every humans ultimate goal in life😁 Then we can honestly give to others without hidden agendas or personal issues!

David Gallimore

Nikki and Jason, so glad you’ve recovered from COVID! Congratulations on your new HH Cat! I’m inspired by your commitment and leadership to helping SOLVE the climate crisis with your decision to purchase a much more eco-friendly catamaran! I look forward to seeing how the ripples you create lead to waves of positive change in the sailing world!!

Keith Lacoy

Congratulations, the new boat looks amazing! Can’t wait to see the real thing in action.

Beautiful boat…are you picking it up in the Philippines? What are you plans for the next year while you wait for this beauty to be built?

Sandra & the 2 Spaniels

Boat looks amazing! Can’t wait to see Nikki cooking in the fab new kitchen! I feel like she does about propane-uh, no! I am even hoping to get an electric cooking stove in my house, if I can get the gas lines removed. The picture tour was great, but I am waiting for the up close and real tour! Congrats!!

Does your new HH-44 have radar? If you seek yet another highly intelligent source of imput regarding this boat contact Troy at Free Range Living and solicit his advise as he is real smart and he might recommend some type of modifications or what ever !!! Best wishes from Fort Worth, Texas !!!!

S/V PORTFOLIO

Good choice of boat design and technology. All electric is not yet practical for passage making, so hybrid is currently the only environmentally friendly, motor-sail silently, practical choice. Never liked the helm stations on Cats. Too exposed. These helms are a great compromise for safety, comfort and visibility. Congrats.

Michael Magill

Congratulations on your new boat, can’t wait to tag along on your next adventures. Have a safe journet home, and we will see you when your back in the water. It will be a different sailing and it looks like it will be a great way to explore. Have a great time with your family and friends . Good Luck

Sounds like the perfect choice. I’m so happy you guys can continue this amazing adventure is real style and comfort.

Christopher Davis

Congratulations, so very awesome. Who ever bought curiosity the first probably got a the best self maintained boat ever. I can hardly wait for the new adventures

Chris Davis Clearwater County, Alberta, Canada

John Curtis

I agree on the technology question, Charles. It sounds like there are many more electronics on this new boat. What safeguards are in place to ensure the safety and continued functioning of them? Are there redundant or backups for key equipment, just in case?

Congratulations! Looking forward to to all of the progress and technical videos.

Steve and Mandy

What an amazing opportunity you have created for yourselves. New boat sounds exciting. Question, with all this performance would you be kind enough to show us how everything will be secured. Being the new need for speed water bearing beautiful people that you are.

What about “Minon”?….”Minon 2″ ??. You will still need to reach shore.

Steven Irby

Very exciting! After reading your wish list for a new boat, I was pretty sure the HH 44 would be your choice. It’s the only cat on the market that checks all the boxes…the hybrid propulsion system with shaft drive really puts it over the top! I am looking forward to following your videos as you acquire and sail it. Can’t wait to see one in person. Congratulations!

I am so excited to hear that you are moving up from the near east side. The two of you have done a fantastic job building out your current boat for sure! Now you’ll only have to set sail, major work free for a few good years. Defiantly visit the South Island. You will fine it more captivating than the north, which is saying something. Peace and safe seas.

Nikki Newman

Where is the HH Catamaran factory located? Will you be taking delivery there?

Mike Priaro

James Bolling

HH web site states that the build site is their Cebu, Philippines plant

IDTS, it’s in the US now.

Seems that HH44’s are being built in the Philippines

According to the HH website, all future HH44’s and 50’s will be built in their factory in Cebu, Philippines. Curious Minion

(¯`v´¯) `*.¸.*´ ¸.•´¸.•*¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•´ .•´ ¸¸.•¨¯`•.•:*¨¨*:•..•:*¨¨*:•..•:*¨¨*:•..•… ┊　　┊　　☆ ┊　　★ ☆ WHEEEEEEEE!!!! I AM SOOOOOO EXCITED FOR YOU!!!!!!

Wendy Weaver

Lisa –

Love the celebration ‘fireworks’ your keyboard skills produced!

CONGRATULATIONS NIKKI & JASON!! My Husband & I have been big fans for years and want to do what you do when we grow up! Please place twin order for that gorgeous OC44 for us! LOL! Laura & Paul

Ed Thompson

How exciting! So happy for you guys. Boy, it looks like a great boat with every bell and whistle one could imagine. Right decision on the direct drive in my opinion. Absolutely astounding electrical system with huge battery storage and motor/high output generator. The cockpit and salon layout is amazing. And the workroom with the huge storage and a supplemental refrig is awesome. Can’t wait to see you guys sailing in it!

A lot of amazing technology and capability on this new boat.

But I am not crazy about the large flat bottom between the hulls – an area that will make a lot of noise and take a lot of stress in high seas.

There is also a certain amount of risk in taking on an unproven model. Because of its newness and high-tech construction and equipment, many critical repairs and repair parts won’t be readily available or DIY.

Ther is a lot to be said for the principle of KISS: keep it simple, stupid!

Mike~ The builders have already proven and built high performance yachts and catamarans since 2012. Construction methods are built for America’s Cups and know what they are doing.

Rick Tressler

I agree. You two have proven that you can do anything when it comes to repairs. However, there are always going to be “issues” with a new boat. One recommendation: When you take delivery, don’t be sailing off on a multi thousand mile trip. Stick close to home for a while until most issues are worked out. Of course you already knew that. Safe travels.

They told me this same thing when I wanted to take my RV to Alaska the first year I owned it. I feel sure they will get their feet wet before a major passing.

I have been following y’all since your trip to Alaska in your class a Bounder. My wife and I are full timers for 19 mos in our Montana 5th wheel. Congratulations to both of you. Safe passage and keep the fantastic content coming.

We look forward to watching you every Sunday night. You are simply a part of our family (the ones we like) and we could not be happier for you both. Can’t wait to continue watching your marvelous adventures!

Yes, yes. All of this is wonderful, congratulations. However, your video left out the most important feature in your selection– what color did you choose?

That’s pretty important, I agree.

Sherie and Craig Masters

Yay! We’ve been wondering and waiting the big reveal! Wow! What a great boat! Perfect for you both and can’t wait to see your journey continue on Curiosity2! Now you have us thinking about HH for our second boat. 🤔

Congrats & best of luck. Price?

Jeff Cheesman

What is the build time?? From deposit to splash.

Leland Crenshaw

I am so excited for you two! You so deserve this great new boat!

Brenda King

What a beautiful boat! Congratulations.. it will be exciting to see the build underway. The work room is fantastic and perfect use for a third cabin.

Two questions.. Will she be named Curiosity? Can you tell us more about the marine refrigeration? Capacity, models etc. I know that was a big issue on the current boat.

Best of luck with the upcoming surveys!!!

The new name is … “SelfReliance” !!!

No, the name is Curiosity 2. They said so in the message.

I’m a bit old-school, but whenever ’digital’ is mentioned, I cringe. But wow! What a boat!

But where’s the life raft that drops out in the middle of the night in rough seas on long passages???!!!!

I see the sail bags sold in a flash. Congrats! I’ve anticipated this post for weeks. I’m really looking forward to the future watching you guys.

Dr J. Stuart Latham

Hi both, the new boat sounds incredible, I wish you all the best for your continued adventures on the Oceans. The tech has always been an interest and high involvement throughout my life, along with a short 7 year career in the RN so I get the draw and freedom of the Sea.

Kind regards, Stuart (Sheffield, UK)

Duane Terry

Wow, so excited for you two. The new boat Sounds amazing. Love reading and watching your blog. Love from Oregon.

Charles Lear

Two questions:

1. Are there provisions to make the aft cockpit weather tight? 2. That is a lot of technology. How do you feel about maintaining that equipment while at sea?

I particularly wondered about number 1, as well.

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no more fuel

The SoelCat 12 is an energy autonomous solar electric boat, designed from the ground up as a fully sustainable excursion vessel to enjoy the sea. The solar catamaran brings  true eco-tourism  to water-bound operators, communities, resorts, lagoons and nature reserves. With no CO2 or noise emissions involved, we can save the ocean and offer a better experience to our guests! The heart of the concept is  silence : being on board without any distractions lets the journey become the destination!

“Being on the solar catamaran gives you a feeling of total relaxation and freedom. The energy autonomous boat is powered by clean energies and we don’t have to worry about harming the environment with dirty exhaust fumes, fossil fuels or complicated maintenance! Our guests love the quietness and the openness of the vessel, which make every sunset cruise a very special moment!”

S. Dekeunynck, French Polynesia

electric from the start

The SoelCat 12 solar electric catamaran is integrally designed for electric propulsion right from the first line drawing to the matched propeller. Every aspect of this vessel contributes towards its highly efficiency for solar electric sailing. The lightweight yet durable fibreglass construction, the large solar roof and the super slender hulls are the major key factors for the solar vessel’s high performance when it comes to speed and range. The electric propulsion system for the SoelCat 12 is superior when it comest to volume and weight.

MOBILE POWER STATION

During downtime, the SoelCat 12 can utilise its large solar array to provide energy for your land based electricity grid. The solar electric catamaran then turns into a mobile power station and is able to feed 8.6kWp into the AC grid or provide power at remote places where no grid is available. The 120kWh  lithium battery  system supplies all the energy required for save operations during day and night.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Running Time (battery only)
• Running Time (with solar)

“Every detail on the boat is perfect – gorgeous spaces to relax, great spots to view the sunset or the marine life, and even a bar! My favorite moment of all was after sunset, when an incredible manta ray came to say hello, drawn by the underwater lights of the solar catamaran.”

S. Lee, New Zealand

fully customizable

The deck space of the solar electric boat can be customised to your wishes and host a variety of seating arrangements and layouts. Choose classic yacht fittings, luxurious and comfortable. Or practical and economical deck wear and simple bench setup for water taxi services. Furthermore, the electric catamaran can be equipped with a day head in the port side hull.  Get in contact with us now  to learn more about the different options and to discuss your personal requirements with your Soel Yachts contact partner.

The solar electric catamaran can be equipped with removable roll down screens on every side for flexibility in every situation. Screens for sun shading can be applied on good days, while transparent rain screens protect your guests in bad weather conditions. When the screens are not in use, the comfortable SoelCat 12 lounge layout offers spacious space options in the hulls and underneath the furniture.

SUSTAINABLE SEA TRANSPORT

With both the Okeanos Foundation and Soel Yachts sharing a vision of sustainable sea transport and striving for a healthier planet, we are honoured that our partner, the Okeanos Foundation has funded and supported the development of the SoelCat 12. The first SoelCat 12, named the ‘Okeanos Pearl’ is the first energy autonomous vessel for the ecotourism industry and will pave the way for more sustainable coastal water vessels in many different sectors. The Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort is proving a pioneering spirit by operating the solar electric Okeanos Pearl. As the first resort, they are offering truly sustainable, noise and emission-free excursions in the pristine lagoon of Bora Bora to their guests.

Demountable

The SoelCat 12 can be delivered as a demountable solar electric boat, which fits into two 40ft high cube containers. Such compact dimensions enable ease transport of the catamaran at affordable rates to destinations all over the world. Neither lamination processes or specialized tools are required for the SoelCat 12’s quick assembly on location. For more details, please feel free to follow the link below and discuss your project requirements with your Soel Yachts partner!

Your project enquiry

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VESSEL REVIEW | Ika Rere – Electric catamaran enters service with New Zealand commuter ferry company

East by West Ferries, a commuter ferry operator based in Wellington, New Zealand, recently took delivery of a new locally-built, fully electric catamaran vessel.

Named Ika Rere (“Flying Fish”), the ferry was designed by local naval architecture firm SSC Marine and built by Wellington Electric Boat Building Company (WEBBCo) for round-trip sailings within the Greater Wellington area, particularly the stretch of Wellington Harbour between the Central Business District and Days Bay and Matiu/Somes Island. Both the owner and the builder claim the vessel is the first fully electric passenger ferry in service in the Southern Hemisphere.

The new ferry will operate using entirely electricity with no diesel generators and no solar panels while recharging will only be via shore power connection courtesy of a dedicated facility at Wellington’s Queens Wharf. The vessel complies with DNV and Maritime New Zealand regulations for electric vessels in terms of emergency/redundancy.

Ika Rere has carbon-fibre construction, a length of 19 metres, and main deck and open upper deck space for a total of 135 passengers, whereas East by West’s other active ferries are limited to only 99 passengers each. The composite construction for the new catamaran was developed by Gurit to be both lightweight and durable enough to withstand daily heavy use.

The entire electrical installation scope for the new ferry was supplied as part of a custom package from McKay. This package also included the vessel automation, the electric propulsion including the two 350kW motors, design and installation of the battery pack, and integration of onshore charging facilities.

McKay said the electrical system will allow the vessel to operate at a nominal service speed of 20 knots, running through commuter peak sailings followed by a relaxed mid-day schedule made possible by rapid charging. The service speed is another improvement as the owner’s older boats are limited to a service speed of 14 knots.

The electric propulsion also means quieter operation and lower maintenance costs compared to traditional diesel engines, which still power some of the ferries in the East by West fleet. Power for the batteries will be supplied by renewable electricity provided Meridian Energy. The 325kWh charging facility at Queens Wharf can fully replenish the batteries in as little as 90 minutes. The owner intends to upgrade the shore connection to yield an output of 1.25 MWh, which could then mean recharging can be completed in 15 minutes.

The vessel’s electronics suite includes a radar and displays from Simrad.

Ika Rere currently operates as part of the electric vehicle fleet of Metlink, the public transport wing of the Greater Wellington Regional Council.

Click here to read other news stories, features, opinion articles, and vessel reviews as part of this month’s Passenger Vessel Week.

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Tags: DNV East by West Ferries Ika Rere Maritime New Zealand Metlink New Zealand SSC Marine WBW newbuild Wellington Electric Boat Building Company

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• Next Passenger Vessel News Roundup | August 16 – Ferries for the Malacca Strait and Michigan, Chinese cruise ship construction and more

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The ZEN50 is a game changer. World’s first series production catamaran equipped with a wingsail, it defines a new distinctive class of its own, where genuine zero-emission meets high comfort and performance, limitlessly. 

Designed from scratch for ZEN Yachts by award-winning naval architect Julien Mélot , this full carbon catamaran is the ultimate essence of technology driven, high performance and luxurious, eco-friendly leisure yachting. 

The blue water capable ZEN50 lightweight racing carbon hulls are combined with a huge solar roof for an unrivaled solar power vs. displacement ratio above 1:1 (18 kW / 17 tonnes), making this yacht completely energy self-sufficient. A revolutionary, fully automated, wingsail - by Ayro© - can be added as a range and speed extender. The yacht’s high capacity battery bank powers a powerful silent electric propulsion, allowing the ZEN50 to achieve 14 knots and maintain high continuous speeds in unrivaled safety and comfort, indefinitely… 

The ZEN50 is offered with or without wingsail and comes in 3 main different versions: Racer, Cruiser and Explorer, each dedicated to a different usage and owner profile. We use these versions as a basis to define a final, bespoke specification for each of our valued clients and ZEN Community Members. Scroll down for more details, specifications and prices.

1st WINGSAIL series production yacht in the world!

The OceanWings32 - by Ayro© - was initially developed for Team Oracle, for the America’s Cup 2010 in Valencia. Over years, it has further been developed and automated by VPLP and was installed on Energy Observer in 2019. Two years of field feedback have allowed the Ayro team to fine tune the algorithm commanding the wingsail. The ZEN50 is the first series production leisure craft to be equipped with this fully automated wingsail. It is controlled at the touch of a finger on screens, is automatically adjusted and has several safety modes and features. The two parts of the wingsail can be hoisted and lowered independently and with the simple touch of a button. The wingsail OceanWings32 is the ideal complement for the solar roof for those wishing to cruise long distances off-shore with zero-emissions.

Greatest ratio SOLAR POWER / weight on the market

At 17 tonnes lightweight and 18,000 W of peak solar power, the ratio of the ZEN50 is at over 1 kW per displaced tonne of water or beyond 1:1 which is far beyond any other blue water CE Cat A yacht in this size range. Lots of solar power for little water to displace is the strong and healthy foundation the energy self-sufficient ZEN50 is built upon.

Performance CARBON sandwich hulls

The hulls of the ZEN50 have been designed from a blank screen for ultimate efficiency - understand minimum drag or minimal energy consumption for a range of speeds from 6 to 10 knots. Their shape is aggressive, sharp and slender. Their reverse bows cut through water like a sword cuts through butter and their curvature is reminiscent of graceful dolphin bodies. These hulls are undoubtedly of the performance type and are built with the best available composites: Carbon fibre and Corecell™. The combination of high strength, low weight and performance design allow the ZEN50 to reach speeds of up to 14 knots.

INFINITE range at high CONTINUOUS speeds

With maximized solar and wind power and minimized energy consumption… the ZEN50 can sail continuously at speeds varying between 6 and 10 knots. Thorough simulations in various sea states and weather system have consistently shown the ZEN50 will be able to achieve performance catamaran speeds continuously without using a genset. With the ZEN50, the world is your oyster and the wildest destinations are within your reach with this self-reliant vessel!

True ZERO-EMISSION operation

The first ZEN50 unit, whose construction started in March 2023, will not be equipped with a genset at all and will not have any fossil fuels onboard. The ZEN50 energy system with its very large capacity 160 kWh battery bank, has been designed to function for days in complete safety with minimal solar energy harvest and no wind. It is perfectly safe with no backup genset and operates 24/7 without any polluting emissions.

NO FUEL , no costs

Naturally, requiring no fuel to operate day in day out is great news for the environment, it is also fantastic news when sailing into remote areas where fuel bunkering might be near impossible or where the fuel quality might be an issue. Finally, it also makes a massive difference in this yacht’s costs of operation. Imagine the hundreds of liters of diesel saved over just a week, the obsolete engine maintenance schedules, the clogged filters and dirty tanks from another age… Welcome to a new burden-free, energy self-sufficient era, welcome to clean and graceful eco-yachting, welcome to ZEN Yachts.

Highest SAFETY & reliability

At ZEN Yachts, we have made some design choices to attain energy self-reliance with the ZEN50 that reduces the habitable volume in the hulls, similar to performance catamarans. Where we have not and will never compromise is on safety. Our main voltage system is 48V making it perfectly safe to work on. The level of redundancy of the batteries and solar panels is 10! The main electrical architecture is split in 2 so that should anything happen on 1 hull, the entire vessel can still operate normally. There are 2 independent helm stations and the ZEN50 is packed with special safety features, nonsubmersible compartments and we can even offer an in-depth practical course on safety equipment usage and management. Sailing with the ZEN50 is not only exhilarating and clean, it is ultra safe!

Unrivaled space & COMFORT

The ZEN50 offers the speeds of a performance catamaran, the comfort of a large motor yacht and the simplicity of an electric car. No less than 2 large day beds, 3 dining areas for over 10 people, 1 professional galley and 2 wet kitchens, 5 heads, up to 4 double ensuite cabins, 1 bunk double and 1 single together with both saloon and dining areas converting into extra sleeping areas, this is simply unrivaled on a 50 ft. catamaran. Add an electric tender, dive compressor, satellite internet, 2 helm stations (cockpit and flybridge), a solar roof that converts into a gigantic upper deck to enjoy the most epic sunrises and sunsets, welcome onboard the ZEN50!

SPECIFICATIONS

Main particulars.

• Length Over All: 15.7m

• Beam: 8.4m

• Depth Molded: 2.7m at midship

• Displacement (light) : 17 T

• Draft (design): 1.3m (4.3ft) incl. keel

• Passenger Capacity: 12

• Berths: 12 (4 x double + 2 x single + saloon)

• Building Material: Carbon Fiber - Corecell™ composite

• Certification: CE Cat A - Unrestricted with 12 persons

Note: Some of the above figures may vary between versions

PROPULSION & ENERGY

• Propulsion: 2 x 50 kW brushless DC motors

• Main Battery Pack Capacity: 160 kWh Lithium

• Solar Roof Peak Power: 18 kWp

• Wingsail: Oceanwings® OWS 3.2 by Ayro©

• Backup Battery Pack Capacity (Nav/Com/Wing): 5 kWh Lithium

• Main System Voltage: 48V - Low voltage for total human safety

• Accommodation Voltage: 110V or 220V

SPEED & RANGE

• Max. Speed on e-motor only: 10 kn

• Max. Speed on e-motor & Wingsail: 14 kn

• Cruising Speed for continuous operation - solar only: 4.5 - 5 kn

• Cruising Speed for continuous operation - solar and wing: 6 - 10 kn

• Cruising Speed day time: 8 - 10 kn

• Range Over 24 h: 180+ nm

Note: These values may vary between versions and sea / weather conditions

EQUIPMENT INCLUDED - RACER VERSION

• Integrated power management system

• Solar power & energy storage system

• Electric propulsion system

• By-wire steering system

• Helm stations at cockpit & flybridge

• Galley counters, storage, sink, oven, stove, fridge, freezer

• 4 en suite heads with enclosed shower, toilet, sink & faucet (in each head)

• All cabin furniture (as shown in layouts)

• Aft deck fixed dining table and aft sofa with collapsible back rest (as shown in layouts)

• Fore deck day bed and lateral seats (as shown in layouts)

• Outdoor marine cork decking / indoor saloon natural bamboo decking

• All cushions In/Outdoor upholstered with Sunbrella® fabric

• 6 deck hatches

• 2 x 500 liter (2 x 132 gal) fresh water tanks

• 2 x 100 liter approx. (2 x 26 gal) fresh water tanks + 1 fresh water pump

• 2 x 350+ liter approx. (2 x 92 gal) holding tanks

• Railings, cleats and fore deck trampolines

• Mooring equipment: 33 kg Rocna® stainless steel anchor + 50 m stainless steel chain 10 mm + 150 m nylon rope + e-windlass

• Regulatory navigation equipment including navigation lights & mast

• 2 x chart plotter 16”; 2 x VHF with DSC button

• Regulatory Life Saving Appliances

• Critical spare parts kit

Note: The above equipment is for the Racer version. Cruiser & Explorer versions carry additional equipment

ZEN50 Solar Wingsail Electric Catamaran - Solar Roof Layout

ZEN50 Solar Wingsail Electric Catamaran - Flybridge Layout

ZEN50 Solar Wingsail Electric Catamaran - Main Deck Layout - Asymmetric D (subject to changes)

ZEN50 Solar Wingsail Electric Catamaran - Cabin Layout - Asymmetric D (subject to changes)

ZEN50 Solar Wingsail Electric Catamaran - Cabin Layout - Asymmetric E (subject to changes)

SOLAR & WINGSAIL

OCEAN RACER

Solar power & Wing, basic configuration, navigation, safety, fridge, etc.

EUR 2 150 000

WORLD CRUISER

Solar power & Wing, well equipped with A/C and water maker

EUR 2 400 000

ARCTIC EXPLORER

Solar power & Wing ultimate configuration with all available options

EUR 2 650 000

Solar power, basic configuration, navigation, safety, fridge, etc.

EUR 1 700 000

CONTINENTAL CRUISER

Solar power, well equipped configuration with A/C and water maker

EUR 1 900 000

TROPICAL EXPLORER

Solar power ultimate configuration with all available options

EUR 2 100 000

Ready to reserve your ZEN50?

Want more information .

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Electric Sailing Yachts

It's taken a long time, but the electric sailing revolution is now firmly on the horizon and electric and hybrid propulsion systems are a working reality. An interesting boost to the sector came last year when Dr Charles Kuehmann, Vice President of Materials Engineering at Tesla and SpaceX, bought an Elan GT5 sailing yacht and equipped it with a Torqeedo Deep Blue 25 kW electric system.

The yacht was purchased new from Elan and shipped to a boatyard in San Diego where its diesel engine was replaced by the Deep Blue system. The pairing of Elan's superior design with Torqeedo's hybrid electric technology was a perfect match, according to Dr Kuehmann.

Before ordering the Elan GT5, I did a lot of research into the state of the technology and high-power electric drives available in the marine market. I was convinced that it was not only possible, but that converting to electric could bring a lot of advantages.

Dr Charles Kuehmann, VP Materials Engineering, TESLA

Electric Propulsion: Pros and Cons

The advantages of electric yacht propulsion are less about saving money and more about minimal maintenance and the joy of silent, zero-emission sailing. Improved manoeuvrability is another definite plus. As Dr Kuehmann observed: "I use it when I'm in the marina where I need a lot of control. Maneuvering the boat with electric is so much smoother than a diesel. The instant torque and immediate power delivery make the boat very easy to handle".

But as the technology stands right now, the downsides can't be overlooked. For starters, the price is high. For a reliable, high-quality system, buyers should expect to pay 20-30% more than a comparable diesel-powered yacht. Range is often cited as a limiting factor. Even the most high-end systems are limited to a maximum of a few hours motoring, which can translate to as little as 25 to 70 miles at 5 knots. Another factor to consider is the availability of ports and marinas with the electrical infrastructure to re-charge batteries.

Dr Charles Kuehmann aboard his Elan GT5

Options for an Electric Boat

Two options are available: pure electric (high and low voltage) and electric hybrid. Low-voltage systems are the easiest to install and manage. Owners of small boats can even forego cutting-edge technology in favour of conventional lead acid batteries.

High-voltage electric systems are more advanced, and by deploying lithium-ion technology their capacity is improving rapidly. As of 2021, the ultimate showcase for high-voltage systems is the recently launched Spirit 111 , a 34m masterpiece and one of the most environmentally-friendly superyachts ever built.

The yacht's 100kW electric motor can propel her silently for 30 miles at 8 knots using battery power alone. And while in motion, the propeller regenerates power to the four 40kWh BMW battery banks, making it possible for the Spirit 111 to run for up to four days without needing to start a generator or plug into shorepower. The photos below show the Spirit 111 during sea trials in the UK's Solent.

There's a bit of confusion as to what an electric hybrid system consists of. Some journalists claim it's an electric system supported by a diesel-powered generator that can be used to re-charge the battery.

But the general consensus is that hybrid propulsion systems features a variable combination of a diesel-powered engine, generators, battery packs and electric motors. Able to switch between modes – electric, diesel/electric, or full diesel – hybrid propulsion yachts allow their owners to use them in the most efficient way possible. And as with their pure electric counterparts, hybrid yachts excel at reducing or eliminating emissions when in harbour or exploring ecologically sensitive environments.

Elan Announces Partnership with Oceanvolt

In February 2021 Elan Yachts announced a partnership with Oceanvolt , a Finnish company specializing in the development of hybrid and electric yacht-propulsion systems. The partnership aims to create a full range of electric-powered yachts – from the luxurious GT6 (styled by Porsche Design) to the practical Impression yachts and the sporty E-Line of performance cruisers. A "hybrid solution" will also be made available. This comes in the form of a 48V DC generator which can be started when batteries run dry.

This partnership is hot off the press and at the time of writing (March 2021) no mock-ups, photos or videos were available. We'll post more information as and when it becomes available.

Electric Sailing Yachts, New Zealand

Pinnacle Marine is New Zealand's exclusive distributor for Elan Yachts. We have an in-depth knowledge of this award-winning brand, their core principles and future goals. If there's anything you'd like to know about electric sailing yachts in New Zealand – whether pure electric or hybrid – we'd love to hear from you.

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New Zealand’s 1st all electric commercial boats

Sean Kelly is the leader of the team at the Electric Boats shipyard in Tauranga, New Zealand and has a long and colourful history that covers the breadth of every type of nautical endeavour in that country and beyond. It includes six years in the NZ Navy, two America’s Cup campaigns and nine months on a UN environmental monitoring programme with the late Kiwi sailing legend Sir Peter Blake.

In addition to Electric Boats he also heads up Pacific7 marine contractors and Herley Boats where he works with Designer Nick Herd and Boat Builder Brendon Wood. The new electrics combine the resources of all three companies to address the environmental aspects of commercial boats while also reducing long term costs for workboat owners.

Electric commercial boat costs $4 a day to ‘fuel up’

The first electric boat the crew put together is named the ‘Al Capone’, a 6 metre open aluminum hull with the distinctive bow of many Herley designs. It made its debut in May of 2018, when Kelly took it for a spin around Tauranga Bay.

He had been working on the concept of an electric workboat for three years, and when local paper The Bay of Plenty Times, asked him why, Kelly laughed –  ”I wanted to be the first person to do it – the stupidest one!”

“Heaps of things tripped me up along the way,” he continued, but the work was not in vain. That first Al Capone has been in regular use since then, used for general fishing and trapping for lobster and crayfish.

It has a 120kW motor hooked up to a standard Mercruiser SE116 outdrive – and delivers a top speed of 30 knots (55 km/h) and cruising speed of 16 knots (30 km/h). Kelly designed the Capone so that it can be charged using a regular plug at home, using about $4 NZ of electricity. That’s about $2.65 USD, or €2,28.  The batteries are placed under the deck where gas tanks would usually have been.

Electric boats also offers another model similar to the Al Capone, a yacht tender that uses essentially the same hull shape but with an open roof over the cockpit area rather than an enclosed wheelhouse. It also has interior finishings more suited to passenger use, like bow seating and a planked deck.

All Electric Catamaran launched in September

In September Electric Boats launched a full size all electric catamaran, the PowerCat 3400 with their proprietary EBP (Electric Boats Platform) for controlling and managing the propulsion system. It is also available as a hybrid.

The boat is an adaptation of a powercat from sister company Herley and has twin 100kw motors with a 180kWh lithium ion battery bank and solar panelled roof. At a cruising speed of 6 knots the  10.2 metre yacht has a range of 100 nm, and can charge from the panels while offshore.

The hybrid version has a 60kW diesel generator that, together with the batteries and panels, can extend the range to just about as far as anyone would like – up to 3500 km (2200 mi). The Electric Boats website says the genset is a ‘quarter of the size of a standard marine generator and accordingly only uses about 1/4 of the fuel that a standard one would.’

The EBP system integrates touch screen controls with a regular throttle and displays real time information about the electric motors, throttle, battery bank, generator engine, the cooling system. It also manages and monitors shore power and onboard charging.

Kelly said they set about designing their own system because “We couldn’t find a suitable system integrator at the right price. This has proven a lot less expensive to build than any competitive brands and has greater versatility. Plus, it allows you to add any module or interface, such as multiple solar panels, multiple battery chargers and multiple inverters.”

Things are ‘starting to spark’ in the New Zealand electric boat world. While the Al Capone may be the first electric commercial boat in the country, it definitely will not be the last. The Wellington Electric Boat Building Company has been hard at work the past few months trying to overcome COVID delays so that they can launch the first fully electric ferry in the southern hemisphere. We’ll keep you up to date!

THE NEXT  EVOLUTION

Nz designed and built electric, & hybrid boats.

Whilst running a busy day to day marine electrical & electronics business, they say that

often the craziest of ideas come to you when you have so much on and no time to think.

Well this is exactly how Evocean Electric Boats came a live.

5 years in the making a trip across the world to discuss & partner with Oceanvolt to provide

boat owners in New Zealand with hybrid and electric propulsion systems for their boats was the

very start of this adventure. To be able to provide clean, safe, reliable & simply state of the art

products to boat owners was something to get extremely excited about. 

The next idea was that we needed to showcase these products, we wanted to show boaties

just what these products were like and how efficient they truly are. Thats when Evocean Electric

Boats emerged and the drawings below highlight our excitement into this space. 

We have aligned ourselves with a very talented Naval Architect, Dan Leech, someone that

knows his stuff when it comes to building & designing efficient boats. We are thrilled to be in

the final design stages of the Evocean EVO33 a 10metre Catamaran taking efficiency & 

versatility to the next level. The EVO33 is NZ designed and will have Dame award winning  Oceanvolt  electric propulsion technology.

 We intend to change the way of boating.

The Evocean EVO33

has been designed with the family in mind, featuring 2 interior layouts sleeping 5 people with a fold out couch for 2 more in the saloon. Slide the cockpit doors open to enhance the atmosphere creating a spacious indoor- outdoor flow. Optional submersible swim platform, outdoor and indoor cooking facilities and tables.

Specifications:

Overall length 9.95m

Waterline length 9.89m

Draft 650mm

Weight (approx) 4000kgs

Water capacity 200 Litre

Grey water capacity 50 Litre

Sleeping capacity 7

Range options:

Short range battery pack 30nm Long range battery pack 60nm Diesel range extender available for both systems

 motoring  

Spacious layout, low cost maintanence, 3 cabins , low/no  , running costs, raymarine electronics, no diesel or petrol fumes, nz designed, & built, if this has got you even just a little bit excited then don't delay, , contact our team today & you could be one of the first to start   , the next  evolution  in boating.

[email protected]

Tel: 09 360 0121

Cnr Westhaven Drive & Curran Street 

Westhaven, Auckland, New Zealand

Thank you for your message. We will be in touch within the next 24hours.

Everything electric boats and boating

Molabo 48V electric inboard makes catamaran debut on ‘Earthling’

The first catamaran featuring the Molabo 48V inboard electric is on the water and attracting admiring onlookers in Auckland, New Zealand.

The Earthling E-40 Powercat is the creation of John McGettigan of Earthling E-Propulsion , who modified a hull design from Alan Cardawine of Asia Catamarans and assembled the boat’s serial hybrid propulsion system. (Serial hybrid means the propulsion is always electric drive with power supplied by battery. A diesel generator is used to top up the charge of the battery when necessary.)

In the Earthling E-40 there is a powertrain in each hull, consisting of the Molabo ARIES 50 motor, 2 lithium-ion 11kWh battery modules and a Whisperpower 8.5kW Genverter. Components can be cross-connected between the hulls for redundancy – engineer speak for back up. 

Altogether there is 44 kWh of battery energy available, which can be charged on shore, by roof mounted solar panels or the generators. The genset automatically kicks in when DOD (battery depth of discharge) is at 20%. It burns 2.5 litres of diesel per hour.

Molabo 48V ISCAD motors maximize output

Molabo was founded in 2016 to commercialize the innovative 48V ISCAD electric motor system ( I ntelligent S tator Ca ge D rive) developed by Florian Bachheibl and Adrian Patzak when they were students at Munich’s University of Federal Defense. The technology now has more than 50 patents registered worldwide.

Read more about the Molabo ISCAD technology

The ISCAD maximizes mechanical power output per volt by using rods instead of copper windings in the stator of the motor. Forty-eight volts is considered ‘safe-to-touch’, so the ARIES 50 can be easily and quickly installed without high-voltage safety measures and training.

This takes full advantage of the Molabo’s high torque and reduces energy consumption. The propellers are optimized for a 10 knot ‘sweet spot’ that uses 15kW – 7.5kW per motor. The rest of the power can be used when necessary, but the E-40 is not meant for speed.

As McGettigan told Alex Stone of Boating New Zealand , “I don’t like talking about speed with Earthling. Speed is inefficient, chews power and adds stress. This boat is all about working with nature. We really must become more comfortable being self-sustaining and energy efficiency is key.”

Controller integrated into motor

Another benefit of the Molabo 48V technology is the integration of the controller into the motor, a big space saver. That made installation and wiring much easier in the confines of the catamaran pontoons. The ARIES 50 also connects easily with all of the boat’s other components.

McGettigan has developed a proprietary system called E-Thos that monitors and controls navigation, charging, water levels, kitchen appliances and more. The data is all visible on a touch screen in the helm with visual alerts so you can recognize instantly if anything needs attention.

This ties in seamlessly with Molabo’s MolaLINK that allows engineers in New Zealand to quickly and easily communicate with Molabo headquarters in Germany for remote service.

As for creature comforts, the Earthling E-40 has a full galley and everything else needed for a pleasant day of island hopping and overnight stay. There is a queen size double berth with ensuite head and shower and another wide single berth. John says he had 14 adults on board for a New Year’s Eve cruise, with no worries.

“A winner straight out of the box”

He told WhisperPower’s CEO Roel ter Heide that he aims to “provide a limited production of two yachts a year. We won’t change anything as she’s a winner straight out of the box. The hulls could be extended to between 50 and 60 feet with the same solution, but 40 feet is a very user-friendly length and spacious too.”

“This boat is so quiet and sails so nicely, we are sure leisure boat owners will love it. We’re also looking at the ecotourism market in places like Australia’s crocodile and bird sanctuaries. The two-strokes typically there are very intrusive for the environment and the Earthling is an ideal solution.”

Molabo   Earthling E-Propulsion   WhisperPower

Photo Credits: Roger Mills/Boating New Zealand

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Ruban Bleu “Navette” Electric Catamaran

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Description

Ideal for passenger transport This electric catamaran can welcome from 15 to 30 passengers. La NAVETTE is a reliable and robust bus-boat adapted for tourism or for urban areas with excessive car traffic. The slender twin hulls minimise power consumption and provide exceptional stability. The twin engines provide excellent maneuverability

Accessible to people with reduced mobility This electric boat can be set up in the way to welcome people with reduced mobility, a bike park and pushchair.

Adaptable to all functions The design, deck plan and performances of this boat are totally adjustable to your request.

This vessel is built to order and can be fully customised to meet your specifications.

Technical specifications Length : 8.50 m Width : 3.50 m Weight (with batteries) : 4.2 tons Weight (with passenger) : 6.3 tons CE certification : Up to 30 passengers Construction : Aluminium Type : 2 motors of 5 kW Voltage : 48 V Batteries : 2 x 640 Amp/hr Maximum speed : 10 km / h (customisable) Range (autonomy) : 10 h Solar panels: optional

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New Zealand’s First All-Electric Commercial Boat

We saw the first production electric cars with Tesla, then the first production electric aircrafts with Pipistrel and now, ElectricBoats.biz brings you the first New Zealand All-Electric Commercial Boat.

Our aim is to provide an electric boat that is much cheaper to run than a conventional vessel, fitted with a combustion engine. We have tried and tested our hull designs from Herley Boats.

Electric Boats strive to offer you a vessel design that is hydrodynamically efficient. We incorporate the latest trends in naval architecture to bring you some of the most unique and efficient vessels.

We are a market leader in electric boats, our business mission is to do our part in reducing carbon emissions from fossil fuels.

Advantages of an Electric Propulsion

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Discover our electric catamaran - Powercat 3400

We launched in September 2020 our Electric Catamaran – Powercat 3400

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Hybrid boats, conversions, discover our electric boat at the lobster fishing.

Lobster Fishing with an electric boat made in New Zealand. Exclusive preview of our electric boat – Al Capone, from New Zealand’s first Electric Boat Business electricboats.biz 

It costs about 4$ to give it a full charge and you can charge it overnight at your home with a normal domestic socket.

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Autonomy in solar.

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. 

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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.

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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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The Future is Electric

Just as motorists have come to embrace the promise of electric vehicles, boaties look to the future as practical electric vessels begin to filter into the market. From personal watercraft to luxury yachts, electric boats are set to make a splash – not in the distant future, but right now. Story by Craig Ritchie.

It is hard to believe that a dozen years have passed since Tesla introduced its ground-breaking, all-electric Roadster in 2009.

Although hardly perfect – Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson initially gushed about the car being “biblically quick” only minutes before the production crew were shown pushing it off the track after its batteries ran flat – Tesla’s first production electric car laid the foundation for what today is clearly the future of the automobile. Although unintentional, it also laid a similar foundation for the future of boats.

Thankfully, that’s beginning to change and, on the strength of much-improved batteries and charging systems, today we’re seeing electric boats that are far more functional in the eyes of everyday boaties. From personal watercraft to luxury yachts, electric boats are poised to make a splash on the water to rival what electric cars have achieved on the roads.

The Personal Touch In view of their smaller size, lighter weight and lower power demand, it comes as no surprise that one of the first places for electric propulsion to find its niche is in personal watercraft. In many respects, PWCs are almost ideally suited to electric propulsion given the way they’re used.

Unlike internal combustion engines that take a moment or two to spool up to full power when you squeeze the throttle, electric motors are binary – they’re either completely off, or completely on. That makes them ideal for PWCs, where that ability to dish out 100% power in the blink of an eye gives electric PWCs blinding acceleration that petrol-powered competitors can’t hope to match.

The latest Narke model is the all-new GT95 which seats three passengers, boasts a 127hp-equivalent power output, and offers an optional onboard quick-charger that reduces full-charging time to just 90 minutes. It’s still very much priced for the superyacht crowd, starting at €47,500 or around NZ$80,000, but it offers a luxurious build and a blazing top speed pushing 80 km/h.

In Canada, Taiga Motors showed a prototype of its own electric PWC in 2018, and it’s now coming to market. The fully-electric Taiga Orca is said to run for up to two hours between charges, and can fully reload a depleted battery in three hours with its standard 6.6kW charger. Or, if you’re in a hurry, it can also use an optional DC quick-charger to bring the battery up to 80% in just 20 minutes. Three trim levels are offered, ranging from about $17,000 for the base Orca Sport to around $27,500 for the top-of-the-line Performance Carbon edition, which features a carbon fibre deck and hull.

Joining the fray is Sea-Doo, which in March announced its intention to go all-electric by 2026. Even better, the world’s largest PWC builder plans to have its first fully-electric Sea-Doo on the market within two years. “We have always said electrification was not a question of ‘if,’ but ‘when,’” said BRP president/CEO, José Boisjoli. “While our current product portfolio is very strong and exciting, our objective is to expand our offering with electric options to attract new customers.”

Surf’s Up The eye-popping power and crushing torque of electric propulsion hasn’t just caught the attention of the PWC community. Manufacturers of watersports towboats also see enormous potential in electric power, and have been quietly developing it for water skiing, wake surfing and wakeboarding for over a decade.

Florida-based Correct Craft introduced its initial Ski Nautique E prototype – the world’s first electric watersports boat – at the Miami International Boat Show way back in 2011. With a pair of 103hp-equivalent electric motors manufactured by LTS Marine and a pair of 77kW batteries, the boat only ran for about an hour before running out of juice and going on charge overnight, but it was a start and it proved the concept of electric power had merit.

Over the past several years Nautique has gained considerable expertise in producing electric tow boats through collaborative ventures in Austria, initially with Ortner Electric and more recently, Ingenity Electric – now owned by Nautique parent Correct Craft as part of its Watershed Innovations subsidiary.

Go Fish While towboats and PWCs focus on inboard power, electric propulsion is also making its mark in outboards. Starnberg, Germany-based Torqeedo introduced its 80hp-equivalent Deep Blue outboard in 2012, and has since conclusively proven that electric outboards can handle the grinding demand of daily commercial use. While high cost has kept the Deep Blue from finding similar success in the recreational market, improvements in battery technology are slowly driving those costs down.

The E-Motion’s battery comes separately, unlike the Torqeedo, bringing final costs a bit closer. But Vision Marine says that new engineering and software allows its motor to deliver far greater run times. “In terms of capacity, our 60kW battery is about the same size as a 75-litre fuel tank,” says Mongeon. “That battery will deliver the same range as a fuel tank of 75 litres driving a petrol outboard of comparable power output. Of course, if a person needs more range they can install two batteries.”

What about smaller outboards? In Europe, Moosburg, Austria-based AquaWatt Green Marine Technologies manufactures a range of electric outboards from 4 to 50kW, or 5 to 70hp-equivalent. The company’s been building electric motors since 1990, and today enjoys global distribution with customers in Germany, Norway, Sweden, Greece, India, Mauritius, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand.

“In the past electric boats had less power, and were very slow, but today it is very different. Now we can go water skiing or wakeboarding. We have one commercial customer located on a lake in Austria, 2,000 metres high in the mountains, using one of our motors to power a 50-tonne raft with a restaurant on it. He moves it around the lake with just the one motor, way up in the middle of the Alps.”

It was only a matter of time till the big boys got involved, with Mercury Marine first to the table with its announcement this spring that it intends to launch its own line of electric outboard motors by 2023, with the first scheduled to hit the market late next year. “We’ll launch five new electric outboard models by 2023, and we intend Mercury to be the market leader in both conventional and electric marine propulsion by the end of that year,” said Mercury Marine president, Chris Drees.

Thinking Big Big torque isn’t just something that small boatbuilders crave. Luxury yacht manufacturers also get the appeal of electric propulsion, which is why a handful of yacht builders have begun experimenting with the technology in their own products.

Launched in 2009, Mallorca, Spain-based Silent Yachts builds solar-powered cruising catamarans that are said to be the first fully-sustainable, ocean-going production catamaran yachts in the world to be powered exclusively by solar energy. Initially greeted with skepticism, the company claimed its yachts could easily cruise for up to 160km a day for weeks on end, then proved it in 2018 when one of its earlier vessels completed a trans-Atlantic crossing that was heralded as the first ever by a solar-powered electric yacht.

The company’s latest creation is an all-new, 20m Silent 60, a luxury cruising yacht with the highest levels of power, comfort and convenience seen yet in a vessel of its type.

The company’s popular Sunreef 60 Power Eco model features a proprietary solar power system that covers 68.6m2 of its outer surface, extending the solar energy generation capacity to 13kWp. Solar panels are fully-integrated with hull sides, superstructure and curved areas all over the yacht for maximum solar exposure.

As automakers and governments continue to invest heavily in electric propulsion, batteries and fuel cells, it’s clear that the age of sustainable, silent boating is drawing near. With no fumes, no emissions and no need for fuel stops, there’s a great deal ahead for all of us to celebrate. BNZ

Power On : Keep trim

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Sunreef Yachts unveils new luxe solar electric Explorer catamaran with over 1,000 kWh in batteries

Sustainable boatbuilder Sunreef Yachts is adding a sleeker, lighter solar electric catamaran to its portfolio. The new Explorer Eco 40m is the company’s smallest electric yacht to date, but debuts with some of the most advanced technology, including Sunreef’s proprietary “solar skin”

Sunreef Yachts  was established in 2002 in Gdansk, Poland where its shipyard and office still operate alongside a newer footprint established at port in the United Arab Emirates. From its very first year, Sunreef has been pushing the boundaries of sustainable marine travel, launching the world’s first 74-foot luxury oceangoing catamaran with a flybridge.

Today, hundreds of Sunreef Yachts are sailing waters across the globe, showcasing the company’s lineup of sustainable luxury catamarans, all-electric propulsion, and advanced solar panels. That current portfolio consists of eco-friendly sailboats and massive solar electric catamarans ranging from 60 to 100 meters in length.

Today, Sunreef shared it has gone smaller, introducing a new 40m electric yacht called the Eco Explorer.

CAT 12.0 Lounge

Specially designed for commercial use with a capacity to transport up to 40 people, the 12-meter full-electric solar-powered catamaran offers virtually endless navigation, an open spacious interior design, and premium levels of onboard comfort.

CAT 12.0 Cruise

This 12-meter fully electric solar-powered catamaran offers virtually endless navigation and comfort. The CAT 12.0 Cruise offers a spacious cabin, and two double-bed cabins with private bathrooms.

SOEL SHUTTLE 14

The Soel Shuttle 14 responds to an ever increasing market demand for zero-emission vessels, capable of transporting people in a sustainable and smart way.

SOEL SENSES 62

Soel Yachts’ Soel Senses 62 solar electric yacht features 42 state-of-the-art 440Wp solar panels and an electric propulsion system for clean and quiet sailing. The sleek and minimalistic design features an efficient hull shape to optimise speed and range for truly sustainable tours around the world.

The Bella Verde 35 is a new chapter in self-driving cruising. Its state-of-the-art features include electric motors, solar panels and plenty of storage for passenger luggage, so you can feel free in the ocean.