Category Archives: Yachting news

Yachting Industry News

Silent Yachts: Is the Future Silent?

Amidst the quest for greener yachting, catamaran builder Silent Yachts has been front and center in providing alternatives. The Austrian-based pioneer has been revolutionizing the luxury catamaran market by introducing electric propulsion systems that power silent and emission-free catamarans – with unlimited range – while enjoying the luxury and comfort of a superyacht.  

Boatbookings supports their vision of creating a new era of sustainable yachting through innovative and self-sufficient yachts and are happy to offer Silent Yachts within our crewed charter catamaran offerings.  We are also thrilled when our clients have zero charges for fuel!

Here are the top reasons to charter a Silent Yacht:

A carbon-free propulsion system 

A compelling feature of Silent Yachts is their reliance on electric propulsion systems. They integrate solar panels and advanced battery technologies to enable the catamarans to navigate silently and without generating emissions. Keeping true to their mission, the Silent Yachts manufacturing process is also powered by clean energy that is generated by solar panels in the production facilities. 

Cruise in silence 

The absence of engine noise and vibrations onboard creates a peaceful atmosphere where you can fully immerse yourselves in the beauty of the ocean. Imagine not being at the mercy of the wind for sailing and yet still being able to hear the lapping waves as you cruise and cross oceans. 

Eco-friendly materials 

Silent Yachts also outfit their boats with eco-friendly materials. They use a range of materials that are not only more sustainable but also have additional beneficial qualities. Examples include flax fibers, which also have great sound-deadening abilities and dampen vibrations, adding to the silent cruising experience. Bamboo and cork are other examples used within the catamaran design of the decks and cabins. 

Nearly limitless cruising range 

The impressive catamarans are equipped with an array of solar panels that can generate and store energy onboard. This allows for an extended cruising range while also covering the hotel loads onboard. The kite sail system also enhances efficiency, as the kite design can fly at higher altitudes and doesn’t shade the panels. The enhanced efficiency of design means you can enjoy the silence longer and the catamarans have true ocean-crossing abilities.

Why wouldn’t you want to charter a Silent Yacht today? You can combine a unique, luxurious, and silent cruising experience while reducing your carbon footprint, joining the green revolution. Contact the Boatbookings team to find out more about a greener crewed charter catamaran with Silent Yachts. 

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The Cool Cats: Exciting New Developments in Sustainable Catamaran Design

The catamaran fleet has long been admired for its stability, speed, and versatility with its unique multi-hull design. Today they are also hailed as being more sustainable than the conventional monohull. 

With so many builders in the industry pushing the boundaries on the multi-hull scene, a new wave of sustainable concepts is revolutionizing the industry. 

As soon as these concepts hit the water, we will offer them for charter on Boatbookings – check for them on our crewed charter catamarans.

Design elements: electrification, new materials, energy efficiency 

There are various factors that designers now take into account when launching new catamaran concepts and designs, with sustainability seemingly at the forefront. 

  • Electric propulsion: Transitioning from conventional fuel-powered engines to electric propulsion systems is a significant step in sustainability. Electric motors offer zero-emission operation, minimizing both air and water pollution. In addition to this, there have been advancements in battery technology to increase the range and efficiency. Scroll down to take more of a read on electric yachting in our previous post. 
    Oh, and they don’t stink of noxious fumes when you’re swimming near them!
  • Lightweight and eco-friendly materials: Utilising lightweight and eco-friendly materials reduces the catamaran’s weight and enables enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. Flax fiber composites are one such material. Flax is a fibrous plant that for centuries has provided the basis for linen, and can be used instead of glass fiber. It is lighter than glass and requires 2-5 times less energy to produce.
  • Energy-efficiency: Catamaran design is now being optimized for reduced energy consumption. Through smart energy management systems, advanced multi-hull designs to reduce drag, and other factors such as LED lighting and the use of solar panels. 

Cool Cat Examples: 

We already have a range of electric crewed catamarans for you to choose from that are currently on the water, but below are some new concepts that have not yet splashed onto the charter market. We are very excited to see how these catamarans develop.

Alva yachts and their wings 

Alva Yachts has recently announced that the second yacht in its flagship 28-meter Ocean Eco 90 catamaran series has begun construction. The Ocean Eco 90 has a fully electric drive and hydrogen fuel cell. It will be powered by two performance electric motors connected to a 500 kWh battery pack, with power from solar panels. It will also be fitted with Gyro’s Oceanwings wind propulsion system. 

A Hybrid Launch by Rossinavi 

The Italian shipyard unveiled a new catamaran concept in collaboration with Zaha Hadid Architects, called Oneiric. The 44-meter eco-friendly vessel has solar energy at its core with four modes of operation. The hybrid concept can be fully-electric for day trips and adjusted for multi-day cruises. Its transatlantic range can be 80% electric and in ‘hibernation’ mode to allow it to be self-sufficient when in port. 

Photo courtesy of Van Geest Design

The Domus concept 

At over 40 meters long, this radical concept was designed by Van Geest Design and Rob Doyle Design. The Domus concept claims to be the first truly zero-emissions yacht over 750 gross tonnes. The design is supported by hydrogen fuel cells, hydrogenation, and solar energy. It also boasts an unlimited range. We can’t wait until these designs are the norm. 

ModX 

Although on a smaller scale, these catamarans are nonetheless impressive. This 100% electric and renewable energy-driven catamaran is being launched this October. With a sleek and futuristic design, Mod X focuses on sustainability and efficiency, incorporating lightweight materials and eco-friendly systems. 

These concepts are only a few of the new designs being announced daily. Highlighting the fact that catamaran design harnesses innovative technologies, materials, and design principles to minimize their environmental impact and carbon emissions without compromising on performance and luxury. Contact the Boatbookings team if you want to be part of leading the change on green chartering today.

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World Ocean Day: What can we do together to help preserve our seas?

Today is World Ocean Day, a day to celebrate and honour the importance of our oceans. This year’s theme is ‘Planet Ocean: tides are changing.’

The oceans are our lifeline, literally. They provide us with 70% of our oxygen and cover 71% of the Earth’s surface. Without them, both humanity and our yachting industry would cease to exist.

At Boatbookings, we understand that we are united by oceans and reliant upon their health. We have long been an advocate for protecting them and continue to do so. To ensure their survival in the future we need more collective action.

What are the main threats facing our oceans? 

It is important to identify the main threats facing our oceans in order to understand what the issues are why we should protect them, and how to work to do so.

  • Plastic pollution: An equivalent of one truckload of plastic enters the oceans every minute, damaging the ecosystems and entering the food chain.
  • Overfishing: 90% of the world’s wild fish are either fully or over-exploited due to destructive fishing practices. 
  • Ocean Warming: Increasing ocean temperatures are affecting marine species and ecosystems and driving up sea levels. 

Why else do we want to protect them?

  • It is the ultimate playground: The ocean is different everywhere you go, from Greece to Croatia, to the Bahamas, to the Pacific. You can do so many things on, in and under the oceans. It is full of life’s great, diverse adventures, think kayaking fjords to scuba diving with reef sharks.
  • We share it: The oceans are a valuable resource that is utilised and shared around the globe. The oceans shape cultures and traditions and living by the sea has such an impact on your life, whether that be what you eat, where you work, or how you spend your time. 
  • The Biodiversity: The oceans are home to an incredible array of biodiversity, including millions of species that many are still yet to be discovered. Healthy oceans can support complex ecosystems, including coral reefs, mangroves and sea grass, which all provide habitats and feeding grounds.
  • Makes us feel good: Research has shown that bodies of water are strongly linked to your brain releasing feel-good hormones. Who wouldn’t be happy on a crewed charter catamaran in Tahiti? 

What can we do onboard a crewed charter?

There are so many ways we can help protect and conserve our oceans. Both small and large changes can make a world of difference to the health of our oceans and the overall sustainability of our planet. Here are some top ways this World Ocean Day you can help:

  • Make sure you choose one of our more sustainable electric charter catamarans for this summer. From electric to hybrid, there are so many green options out there. 
  • Offset your carbon emissions. You can use our carbon offset calculator to work them out. 
  • Reduce your plastic waste onboard. You can specify on your preference sheet that you would like to minimize single-use plastic wherever possible. For example, through reusable bottles, filtered water, and refillable toiletries onboard a crewed charter. 
  • Support and get involved in any local ocean conservation initiatives, from beach clean up’s in the BVI’s to supporting local communities in the Bahamas. 
  • Eat locally and seasonally onboard. You can ask your onboard chef to source sustainably and ethically throughout your trip. This will reduce your carbon footprint onboard due to the reduced air miles. 
  • It is important to understand why there are specific anchoring regulations in place and to always adhere to these. Your crew will ensure that you anchor in an environmentally-safe spot without damaging what is below, especially the coral reef.

While it is essential to recognize and acknowledge all the themes and topics behind World Ocean Day, we should work to protect and conserve our oceans every day. We ensure our clients take the protection of oceans seriously. At Boatbookings, we started this by helping facilitate greener chartering, leading the charge to provide our clients with a more sustainable charter fleet and practices. For a greener charter this year, contact the Boatbookings team today.

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Is the Electric Yachting Era Finally here?

While car manufacturers unveil new electric car models on what seems like a daily basis, the yachting industry has been slower to adopt this trend and remains nearly 100% diesel-based. Thankfully, this is rapidly changing. If you attend any boat show, you will feel a palpable buzz about all the new models and technologies being announced as the yachting industry strives to electrify.

What are the benefits of electrification?

Electric propulsion systems are highly energy efficient, utilizing power more effectively than traditional engines. With the ongoing advancements and development in battery technology, electrification is now becoming viable. Yachts are implementing electric systems with larger batteries that minimize range anxiety.

Not only does electrification result in greener chartering through lower carbon emissions, it also offers a better charter experience that includes:

  • Silent cruising from the use of electric motors
  • Reduced vibrations throughout the yacht
  • The ability to run aircon at night without the use of a generator, which often is loud and impedes upon the tranquility of a night in a beautiful anchorage
  • No diesel fumes from engines that often belch smoke out of the aft while you are enjoying water sports
  • Greatly reduced fuel cost. If you’re powered by the sun, you will feel the savings in your wallet! Might as well spend that money on great dining and activities.

A sparked interest from innovative yacht builders 

When it comes to embracing electrification, several boat builders have emerged as pioneers showcasing both the benefits to customers (virtually no noise or fumes and much cheaper cruising) as well as their commitment to sustainability. Here are a few of our favorite examples: 

The Silent 64 from Silent Yachts

Silent Yachts: Based in Austria, they specialize in designing and building solar-powered catamarans that operate solely on electric propulsion systems. We have a range of crewed catamaran charters from Silent ready to charter.

Sunreef: We also have a wide selection of crewed catamaran charters from the renowned Polish catamaran manufacturer. Sunreef has made waves with its electric range, powered by advanced electric propulsion systems that include solar panels and high-capacity batteries.

Voyage: All systems onboard these crewed catamaran charters are quietly powered by large-capacity batteries and recharged by solar, hydro generation, and a high-efficiency generator.

What else needs to happen?

The development of sustainable technology has been evident. However, there still needs to be increased investment in the infrastructure and onshore support. One obstacle is the current limited infrastructure of charging, establishing a network of charging stations, marina infrastructure and reliable power supply is crucial for the integration of a fully electric fleet. 

Transitions take time, but we are excited to see what has happened so far and what is on the horizon. This transition offers enhanced efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and improved onboard experience. 

Book and Electric Yacht today with us

At Boatbookings, we have long been leading the charge on this electric yacht revolution and are excited that we can now offer you a range of clean and silent yachts that are all-electric. To charter some of our best sustainable electric charter catamarans, contact the Boatbookings team today. We can also arrange to offset your carbon emissions so that you can charter net zero with any boat from our fleet.

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Caring for the captivating Caribbean coral reefs

Coral Reefs are worth caring for!

The pleasure of exploring the underwater marine seascape is a wonderful experience during your Caribbean yacht charter. There are so many fabulous coral reefs to explore, you’re spoilt for choice. Among the best are the incredible reefs of Virgin Gorda and Anegada. To continue to enjoy these magical underwater worlds and help preserve them for others to visit, there are a few simple guidelines to help care for coral reefs.

Coral reefs are the largest living structures on the planet and amazingly the only living structure visible from space! The operative word here being ‘living’. Unbelievably, corals are classified in the same grouping as jellyfish and anemones. They are living creatures, needing nourishment to grow and reproduce.

Whichever catamaran you choose for your charter, our captains and crew are committed to preserving this marine equilibrium and caring for coral reefs, and none more so than the crew of ALTESSE who have introduced biodegradable soaps, banned single-use plastics, and even insist on coral-friendly sunscreen aboard this magnificent catamaran.

It’s not hard to enjoy the reefs while also preventing damage to this aquatic paradise. Most importantly, you can just follow the lead of our experienced crews who live in the region and understand how to help preserve coral. Key practices are:

  • Never anchor or go aground in a coral reef, except in specifically designated areas.
  • Never walk in coral
  • Don’t touch the coral when you’re snorkeling or diving
  • Do not harvest coral or attempt to take it out of the water
  • Use coral-safe sunscreens
  • Do not throw garbage overboard (it can contain items toxic to coral)
  • Use bio-degradable soaps and shampoos
  • Keep all water pollution (oil, garbage, trash, etc.) to an absolute minimum

Here are more practices recommended by the US Environental Protection Agency.

A blanched coral reef from global warming

CO2 emissions and reef protection.

Perhaps the greatest threat to coral reefs is the warming of the seas due to excess carbon in our atmosphere. While climate change is visible and most talked about on land, our oceans absorb 70% of the heat from CO2 emissions and this is having a significant impact on sea temperatures. Increased water temperature often results in “blanching” which is an innocuous way so saying a mass coral death event. While no one person can stop climate change, the UN notes that 2/3rds of CO2 emissions come from personal household decisions. So collectively reducing our carbon footprints can have a dramatic impact. One decision we can help you with is chartering low emissions sailing catamarans!

During your Boatbookings charter by paying attention to guidelines like these you can contribute to the preservation of the Caribbean’s stunning wildlife, ensuring its beauty and diversity, while you create unforgettable memories.

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