Category Archives: Yachting news

Yachting Industry News

Greener Catamarans: A Spotlight on Fountaine Pajot

Fountaine Pajot, one of the world’s largest yacht manufacturers, has taken significant strides toward creating greener and more sustainable catamarans. The French shipyard is renowned for its commitment to building great catamarans of the highest quality while prioritizing sustainability.

Aside from their green credentials, the catamarans are spacious, comfortable, and perfect for island hopping in areas such as French Polynesia, the Caribbean islands, and various Mediterranean destinations. 

A Sustainable Vision 

Last year the shipyard launched its vision to lead the environmental transition through its Odyssea 2024 business plan, where the company is planning to deliver net carbon-neutral cruising boats by 2030. For 2023, the mission of this Odyssea plan is to facilitate more research on fuel cells, which will see the implementation of hydrogen-powered motors on the catamarans. 

To achieve these ambitious goals, Fountaine Pajot is leveraging collaborative platforms like ODSea Lab. This platform is helping accelerate technological solutions to transform the choice of materials and implement innovative solutions regarding energy, propulsion, and operations onboard.

Lifecycle Analysis

The End of Life factor is a huge issue to consider for the boating industry and it is one aspect that Fountaine Pajot is particularly focussing on within its catamarans. They are investigating processes to limit the impact on the environment within the boat-building life cycle that include recycling, repurposing, and reusing many of the parts of their cats. 

Greener Propulsion 

To reduce the boating industry’s carbon footprint, the shipyard works with various stakeholders to implement greener parts and equipment that help reduce overall emissions. They do this through two main methods. The first by reducing the amount of transport in its supply chain, and the other by using recycled and bio-sourced materials that can be recycled. 

The Aura 51 

One particular model harnessing a more eco-conscious approach is the Aura 51, equipped with an electric propulsion system and intelligent onboard energy management system. This is the first model to offer Fountaine Pajot’s smart electric option. The technology utilized within the Aura catamaran results from the work supported by the ODSea Lab innovation platform. As well as being voluminous, the coachroof design also integrates solar panels.

Charter Today!

Want to charter a Fountaine Pajot 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 with Fountaine Pajot. 

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How to Have a More Sustainable Caribbean Yacht Charter

We are approaching one of our favorite times of the year – the Caribbean boating season! At Boatbookings, we love cruising the Caribbean, from the azure waters and abundant marine life to pristine beaches. But, like the rest of our planet, the islands are under threat.

The Caribbean is a fragile ecosystem suffering under the various challenges climate change brings. The Caribbean faces many threats, from rising sea levels and increasingly severe weather to ocean acidification. There are so many things we can do to leave less of an impact on our crewed charter catamarans.

Here are some ways you can help minimize your impact this Caribbean season:

Choose a Greener Yacht

The first step is to choose a more eco-friendly yacht from our greener crewed charter catamaran selection. At Boatbookings, we showcase more sustainable boats and look at incorporating catamaran builds, such as Sunreef and Silent Yachts, that champion sustainability. Crewed catamarans are better for our oceans and boast more advantages, such as better efficiency, shallow draft, expansive living areas, and comfortable cruising. The recently launched Sol is perfect for a greener Caribbean charter in the BVIs. This Sunreef 80 power eco has all the luxury facilities and amenities while having sustainability at the core, including vegan interiors and the solar and battery tech found within this Eco-Catamaran range.

An Eco-Conscious Itinerary 

There are a few factors that can help minimize your impact by choosing a more eco-conscious itinerary for a Caribbean charter. Overcrowding can have a negative impact on an ecosystem, so cruising destinations and anchorages that are less crowded will help. Opting for quieter spots also makes for a better experience. There are plenty of natural reserves and marine parks in the Caribbean, especially within the Bahamas, such as Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park. Visiting these on your charter means you will help support the conservation efforts by abiding by the strict conservation regulations to protect the area.

Better Onboard Practices 

While the crew onboard will already implement sustainable practices, it is important that you are aware of these. The main culprit in the Caribbean is the use of single-use plastic, but most boats now have water filtration systems onboard so that you can reduce any plastic water bottles needed. While in the Caribbean, you will undoubtedly be in the water a lot, so it is important to wear reef-friendly suncream to protect from the toxicity of regular suncream when exploring reefs and marine life. Another way to ensure a greener charter is through the menus you enjoy; ask your chef to create menus that are prioritized with local and seasonal ingredients in mind, helping reduce the carbon footprint of your charter. Always look for opportunities within the Caribbean to incorporate responsibly sourced seafood and avoid overfished species, such as parrotfish that have been overfished in the Caribbean for decades. 

Support Conservation Efforts 

As well as choosing to visit marine parks and natural reserves while following the regulations as charter guests, you can also support by donating to local conservation organizations or participating in beach cleanups. By aligning your charter experience with minimizing your impact, you are contributing to the long-term health of our oceans. Before your charter, you can also use our carbon offsetting calculator.

Charter the Caribbean Today! 

These are just some steps you can take to ensure the Caribbean’s natural beauty lasts for generations to come. Contact the Boatbookings team to book a greener crewed charter catamaran to enjoy the Caribbean this coming season. 

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New Influences: The Role of the Younger Generation for Greener Boating

The younger generation is an undeniably powerful force. They are shaping the future of various industries, and the boating industry is no exception. At Boatbookings, we are witnessing a profound and positive shift as younger individuals champion a future for green chartering.

The Millennial and GenZ charter client

In recent years, the profile of a charter client has transformed. Notably, we have seen a substantial increase in younger clients chartering our crewed charter catamarans and bareboat charter catamarans. 

Many Millennials and Gen Z are adopting the ‘try before you buy’ approach. There has been an increasing number exploring charter or fractional ownership before committing to a purchase. 

This flexible approach and changing demographic has also highlighted changing priorities. The younger generation is consuming differently, paying more attention to their impact and sustainability credentials when it comes to boating. 

Here are some of the ways the younger generation are driving the green agenda forward: 

Shifting Mindsets 

The generations growing up in today’s world are more eco-conscious than ever. Having grown up developing a greener and more conscious mindset about their impact on our environment and oceans, they are making different, better choices. One simple reason is that they face a world where environmental pressures are mounting, and changes must be made before it is too late.

Responsibility to Protect

Younger clients are increasingly valuing the contributions they can give back. We have seen a considerable increase in philanthropy, whether giving back to the communities that the yachts cruise in, investing in new, greener technology, or donating to marine conservation foundations. 

Onboard Technology 

Younger generations tend to have a greater interest in the onboard technology, although the extent of this depends on their background; these more technically minded owners are enjoying being at the forefront of change. This interest in technology drives the greener agenda with new, more efficient solutions for electric propulsion and onboard energy-usage.

A Greater Connection 

Previous generations have been focused on the need for speed, whereas the new generation is demanding a greater connection with the oceans. Therefore, they value these new technologies behind electrical and hybrid propulsion for a quieter (and emission-free) cruising experience. Being connected with nature at a younger age also enables a deeper appreciation for it. Therefore, protecting this environment is higher on their agenda, and they want to conserve it for future generations. 

Raising Awareness

The younger generation is also actively educating fellow boaters and the public about the environmental impact and ways this can be minimized. Their advocacy and responsible choices are consequently driving a surge in demand for greener practices and yachts across the charter market. 

The younger generation has been and continues to be instrumental in driving positive change within the boating industry. Not only are they helping raise awareness, but their responsible choices drive further demand for greener practices throughout the boating industry. 

Contact one of the Boatbookings team today to learn more about the greener crewed charter catamarans you can charter this coming Caribbean season. 

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Embrace Electric: Reasons Why You Should Choose An Electric Boat

The electric boat revolution is well underway in the boating industry, as they are rapidly emerging as the smarter and more environmentally responsible choice for our crewed charter catamarans.

At Boatbookings, we champion the more sustainable choice for our clients. If you are thinking about your next yacht charter, here are some of our top reasons why you should consider choosing electric: 

A Lighter Footprint

When you charter an electric yacht, your journey will have a significantly reduced carbon footprint. Unlike traditional boats that rely on fossil fuels, electric ones are cleaner and greener. One of the most significant benefits of electric boats is that the propulsion is emission-free, meaning harmful substances are not released into the atmosphere. Alongside the lack of emissions, electric boats also eliminate any water pollution. Most of the fuel and oil pollution is caused by everyday oil leaks, refueling, and emissions – this can cause severe harm to marine life. Electric boats do not require fuel and very little oil, so they dramatically reduce water pollution. 

2. Enjoy Nature 

Electric propulsion is much quieter than conventional engines, making the disturbance to wildlife and environments minimal. With rumbling engine noises replaced by virtually silent propulsion systems, you can immerse yourself in nature better and truly enjoy your crewed charter catamaran experience. The aptly named Silent Yachts showcase this benefit of noiseless cruising. 

3. Cutting-Edge Designs 

Electric boats not only harness greener credentials but are also aesthetically and functionally on the leading edge. Newly announced yachts are generally at the forefront of yacht design, blending modernity with a strong emphasis on sustainability. Form and function are certainly not compromised. Sunreef Yachts are one example of this prioritizing sustainability without sacrificing style. The Polish shipyard uses engineering technologies to create lightweight and efficient structures with their patented solar technology while incorporating a range of eco-conscious interiors. 

4. Supporting the shift

Supporting the new electric yachts makes great sense for the future. Regulations are becoming stricter, so going electric will ensure you are “ahead of the curve”. By chartering an electric yacht, you are challenging the conventional norms and helping set new standards for responsible boating. As the demand for electric yachts grows, it will further drive innovation and expand options for the future. 

These are just a handful of reasons why electric boats have advantages over traditional diesel yachts. Deciding to charter an electric yacht is about committing to a more sustainable future for the boating industry. As you plan what crewed charter catamaran you will charter next, consider the impact your choice will have and contact the Boatbookings team to talk about our greener crewed charter catamarans and electric options worldwide. 

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Tie-up responsibly: How are marinas facilitating the green revolution?

Whether you are on a bareboat charter catamaran or a crewed charter catamaran, alongside fantastic anchorages, you will likely also want to tie up in a marina or two on your travels. 

But marinas significantly impact the environment. They cater to hundreds of boats coming and going, which can have various negative impacts. Firstly this movement can disrupt the local ecosystem if not managed appropriately, and visitors discharge multiple wastes and trash. Marinas are beginning to recognize that they can harm the environment without protocols and mindful practices in place, with now many keen to be greener. 

The two leading global initiatives are the Clean Marinas Program and The Blue Flag award, both setting standards for better eco-awareness and environmental preservation. 

At Boatbookings, we love hearing about innovative marina designs and sustainable practices being implemented. We take a look at some marinas around the world and how they are becoming greener: 

Rybovich, West Plam Beach

The Florida-based Rybovich marina provides berths for boats up to 100m. They meet the stringent criteria to gain its ‘clean marina’ status through various procedures. The comprehensive recycling center and drainage system that captures almost all the water in the shipyard, which is then filtered and reused both contribute to this. The marina was one of the first partners supporting the Water Revolution Foundation, working to enhance the sustainability credentials of the boating industry. Rybovich is part of the Safe Harbour marina group, which recently partnered with X-Shore to allow and increase easier access to fully electric boats in the USA. 

Blue Haven, Turks & Caicos

Recently reopened this year, the Blue Haven marina in Turks & Caicos Islands in the Caribbean has improved its green agenda while gaining the acclaimed Blue Flag award. The marina has increased ecological awareness and conservation commitments by utilizing eco-friendly cleaning and products at the facilities. Sustainable materials and renewable energy are also used throughout. It is part of the IGY group, which in 2021 also pledged to reduce and offset its carbon footprint across its network, helping future-proof its portfolio. 

Port Vauban, France 

Not only does the largest marina in Europe, Port Vauban in Antibes, have a Blue Flag award, but it was also the first in Alpes Maritime to join the French charter of the environment, striving for best practices in eco-preservation. The marina has gradually replaced fossil-fuel-powered vehicles with a fleet of electric golf carts and bikes. They also have robots collecting floating waste at various port locations and an extensive recycling system. 

Flisvos Marina, Greece

Flisvos Marina in Athens won the ‘Smart and Sustainable marina award, 2022’ at the international competition at the Monaco Yacht Club. The marina uses electricity from 100% renewable sources, keeps water quality at swimming level, and has many environmental campaigns. They also facilitate 16 recycling streams and use environmentally friendly building materials within its walls. Flisvos is part of the D Marin group, recognized for its unwavering commitment to ESG and environmental concerns. 

These are just some positive changes we have seen from innovative cleaning solutions, responsible waste channels, renewable energy, and environmental awareness. At Boatbookings, we hope these initiatives will be rolled out in all marinas soon. Contact us today to learn more about the greener catamaran charters we offer and what marinas you can visit! 

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