Category Archives: Yachting news

Yachting Industry News

Myth vs. Reality: The Truth About Electric Boating

The use of electric technologies within the electric boating sector isn’t new. For some years now, the industry has been undergoing a revolution with the rise of electric propulsion systems. While the technology promises a greener and quieter boating experience, many myths and misconceptions surround electric boats. 

At Boatbookings, we have been champions of electric boating. That’s why we offer a range of greener crewed catamarans with electric propulsion. 

Here, we separate fact from fiction when it comes to the myths and misconceptions of electric boating: 

Myth: Electric boats have limited range 

One of the biggest concerns about electric boats is their perceived limited range. However, advancements in battery technology and energy management systems have significantly increased the range of modern electric boats. The Eco range from Sunreef, the world’s leading manufacturer of electric catamarans, boasts an unlimited range under favorable and sunny weather conditions, thanks to the advanced battery systems and their innovative and integrated solar panels within the superstructure. 

Myth: Electric boats lack power and performance 

Another common misconception is that electric boats are sluggish and lack the power and performance of traditional diesel-powered vessels. But in reality, electric motors can provide instant torque and powerful acceleration, making them incredibly responsive on the water. Candela, the first fast and long-range electric boat on the market, with top speeds of up to 30 knots, is an example of this performance level. 

Myth: Electric boats are not as luxurious 

Some believe that electric boats lack the luxury amenities found on traditional boats, but this is far from the truth. Today, many electric boat manufacturers focus on creating vessels combining cutting-edge technology with luxurious designs and premium materials. These boats are being designed at the forefront of technology and design and, therefore, will combine the highest quality. The range of electric crewed catamarans we have available with Boatbookings is all of superior quality with luxurious amenities onboard. 

Myth: There is limited charging infrastructure 

While electric boats require charging up, many fear the lack of infrastructure. However, while this may have been an issue, many marinas and docking facilities are now equipped with charging stations to recharge while docked. Around the world, we have seen a massive uptake in governments investing in fast-charging networks. Private companies have also seen this opportunity and are installing more and more charging points for boats. Many electric-powered boats also have further energy generation, such as solar panels, to extend the range without external charging. 

As the electric boating sector continues to evolve, it’s essential to understand the capabilities and limitations of these vessels. With continued advancements in technology and infrastructure, electric boating is poised to become an increasingly popular and sustainable choice for those wanting a greener crewed catamaran charter. Contact one of the team at Boatbookings to talk more about electric boating and the fleet of greener crewed catamarans we can offer for your next boating vacation. 

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5 Key Reasons To Charter An Environmentally-Friendly Catamaran

As the boating sector becomes increasingly conscious of the need to protect our planet’s oceans, we look toward the catamaran as a more eco-friendly and sustainable way to explore our oceans. At Boatbookings, we are committed to providing our guests with not only a luxurious experience but also a more responsible sailing experience that leaves a minimal environmental footprint. 

Here are the top 5 reasons why you should look at chartering a catamaran for your next boating vacation: 

1. Sustainable & Efficient Design 

Catamarans are inherently designed for sustainability and efficiency. Their lightweight construction and sleek twin-hull configuration require less power to propel them through the water. Therefore, this translates to an exceptional fuel economy and reduces carbon emissions.

2. Renewable Energy Integration 

Many catamaran builders, such as Sunreef and Lagoon, are integrating renewable energy sources like solar panels into their superstructures. Sailing catamarans also further harness renewable energy, utilising the wind when sailing. This allows for reduced reliance on fossil fuels and the ability to cruise quietly without the noise and fumes associated with traditional combustion engines. 

3. Spacious Living with a Smaller Footprint 

While offering guests generous living spaces, catamarans have a relatively small footprint compared to monohull yachts of similar size. The large saloon and cabin areas onboard catamarans, thanks to the twin hulls, are ideal for large groups and families. Another benefit is that these yachts are remarkably stable, making them the perfect choice for island-hopping adventures around the Mediterranean, especially for a charter around Greece and Croatia.

4. Better Access 

With their shallow draft, catamarans can easily explore remote bays, coves, and islands that are less accessible to larger, deeper boats. Improved access on a crewed charter catamaran means guests can get more off the beaten track and into less visited anchorages. This low draft also minimizes the risk of damaging sensitive marine environments, particularly coral reefs and the seagrass beds abundant throughout the Mediterranean. 

5. Stable Playtime 

The stability of catamarans provides the ideal platform for watersports and responsible exploration of marine environments. Snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding are much easier from a catamaran’s steady base. Our fleet of charter catamarans have plenty of eco-responsible water toys to play with when cruising the Mediterranean. 

Get Onboard Today! 

We have a wide range of greener crewed charter catamarans available for your next boating vacation. Why not charter Tiril? This Sunreef Eco 50 is the ideal yacht for adventures further afield, exploring French Polynesia. Back in the Mediterranean, you can charter the larger Sunreef 60, E Superyacht, to explore Sardinia. And, over in the Caribbean, we have Nemo, the Nautitech 47, and Voyage 590E, perfect for these idyllic cruising grounds. 

Wherever you are looking to cruise next, contact one of the Boatbookings teams about booking your next greener crewed charter catamaran experience.

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A Greener Horizon: 3 Powerful Shifts Driving the Boating Sector

The boating sector is transforming significantly as global issues become more pressing. There has been increased investments in the blue economy, education, and new EU regulations to combat greenwashing. 

At Boatbookings, we advocate for these positive changes. Our last blog was on our commitment to empowering a green yacht charter industry, so this week, we are exploring how other current developments are helping improve the industry. 

The Blue Economy 

As industries worldwide recognize the oceans’ economic potential, the blue economy has emerged as a focus. The term encompasses various maritime-based activities, from renewable energy and marine transportation to coastal tourism. 

Recent data shows that investments in the blue economy are on the rise. Driven by the need to harness the ocean’s resources more sustainably. The EU recently pledged to invest €1 billion in alternative fuels. These investments create new opportunities for the yachting industry to innovate and adopt more eco-friendly practices. From developing electric and hybrid propulsion systems to using recyclable materials in boat building. 

Tackling Greenwashing 

The EU has also taken action to address the challenge of greenwashing, the practice of making misleading or exaggerated claims about a product or service’s environmental benefits. The new EU Green Claims Directive aims to bring more transparency and accountability to companies’ communication of environmental credentials. 

This will encourage yacht manufacturers and other industry players to substantiate any green claims, ensuring that the messaging aligns with the impact of operations. The Directive will accelerate the industry’s transition to more sustainable practices. 

Upskilling For Greener Boating 

The recently announced EU-funded project focuses on facilitating the skills needed for the green energy transition in the maritime industry. Through targeted training programs and collaboration, this initiative equips maritime sector professionals with the knowledge and expertise required to drive sustainable change. This upskilling through the TEcoNaut project is vital to ensure businesses can facilitate positive changes. The project has recently stated that the development of green technology in boatbuilding can only be achieved through collaboration among higher education institutions. 

Investing in upskilling initiatives and greener technology while ensuring transparency are vital factors for a more sustainable boating industry. Contact one of the Boatbookings team to discuss your next yacht charter needs and learn about our greener alternatives, such as our greener crewed charter catamarans. 

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Boatbookings Commitment to Empower a Greener Yacht Charter Industry

While the world of yacht charters provides luxurious platforms for adventure and once-in-a-lifetime vacations, the industry also understands the growing recognition that our actions profoundly impact the environment. At Boatbookings, we have embraced this responsibility and are leading the charge towards a more sustainable future for the yacht charter industry. 

As a leading marketplace for yacht charters, we understand that our role extends beyond simply facilitating bookings. We advocate for a greener charter industry and champion marine conservation and responsible tourism. 

This ethos is at the core; here are some of the ways we are showing our commitment to improving the yacht charter industry: 

Spreading Awareness 

We believe that education and advocacy are crucial in driving meaningful change. Through our engagement with industry associations like MYBA, we are helping actively shape the conversation around sustainability. We share best practices and empower clients and yachts to join. Our consultants explain the importance of greener decisions regarding chartering and encouraging more sustainable preference choices, such as refusing single-use plastic and offsetting carbon emissions. We also continually educate the industry by sharing the knowledge we gather on sustainability through this blog. 

Embracing Carbon Offsetting 

We recognise that carbon emissions are an unavoidable aspect of many yacht charters. Alternative propulsion and fuels are slowly coming to the fore, a huge proportion of the fleet still has combustion engines. Our carbon offsetting program, the first of its kind within the industry, allows our clients to calculate their charters’ carbon footprint and purchase credits to offset the impact. This helps clients take an active role in preserving our oceans. 

Staying Ahead 

The yacht charter industry is ever-evolving. We constantly monitor emerging green technologies, regulatory changes, and innovative yacht launches. This ensures we remain at the forefront of the sustainability movement. By staying ahead of the curve, we can offer our clients the most up-to-date and eco-conscious options. 

Offer Better Options

Because we stay ahead and are committed to improving the industry’s green credentials, we constantly expand our eco-friendly yacht fleet and our greener crewed catamaran charters. We want to ensure clients have the broadest range of eco-conscious yachts to choose for their vacation. Our team can also help clients, boats, and crews navigate better preferences for the yacht charter through preference sheets. We encourage these evolving needs of more environmentally conscious charterers and aim to help facilitate these onboard every boat. 

In the quest for a greener future for the yacht charter industry, we embrace our responsibility and take steps to reduce our impact. For more information on the range of greener crewed catamarans on offer or other sustainability initiatives, contact one of the Boatbookings team today. 

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A Boatbookings Insight to the MYBA Charter Show in Genoa

The prestigious MYBA Charter Show, one of the yacht charter industry’s leading events, will return to Genoa, Italy, from April 22 to 25. Hosted at the iconic Marina Molo Vecchio, this 34th edition promises to celebrate the latest advancements and innovations in yachting. 

Celebrating its 40th anniversary, the show’s return to Genoa after a five-year stint in Barcelona is a significant milestone. Building upon the successful implementation of various green initiatives last year, the 2024 edition is poised to solidify MYBA’s commitment to environmental sustainability further.  

With an impressive lineup of approximately 400 exhibitors, 500 brokers, 60 yachts over 30-meters, and 300 crew, the show offers a platform for yacht charter professionals, brokers, managers, and owners to connect, collaborate, and explore the industry’s developments. This year, the show will also continue its much-loved Chefs Competition, where superyacht chefs will showcase their talents to an Italian fusion dinner party theme. 

Showing up for Sustainability 

One of the oldest and most respected events in the yachting calendar, the MYBA Charter Show has embraced sustainability as a core value. Last year’s edition implemented various eco-friendly practices. These included the use of recycled materials for promotional material and an effort to reduce energy consumption. This year’s show promises to build upon these initiatives. 

A Spotlight on the Yachts

A highlight of the year is the impressive lineup of charter yachts. Each year, we see a rise in the number of greener crewed charter yachts on the market, thanks to advancements in green technology. 

Among the yachts at this year’s show is the newly launched Otoctone. The Sunreef 80 catamaran is part of the Eco series. Boatbookings is proud to showcase this remarkable yacht. It is fitted with Sunreef’s solar power system, featuring solar panels integrated into the composite structure. Otoctone is a testament to the industry’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint. 

When under sail, the yacht also boasts an advanced hydrogeneration system, allowing for the continuous production of green energy. Capable of accommodating up to 9 guests, Otoctone is the perfect choice for a Mediterranean charter this summer. Following its appearance at the MYBA Charter Show, the yacht will be available for charters in Sardinia and Corsica. It will also be available for the iconic America’s Cup in Barcelona. 

Boatbookings at the Show 

Our charter experts will be at the show, ensuring we have the most up-to-date information about the best charter yachts on the market. Getting to know the yachts in detail is critical to our service, so we choose the best yacht for you. Contact one of the team to learn more about a crewed charter catamaran vacation for 2024. 

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