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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Future Predictions: The Yacht Charter Industry in 2030

We love delving into the future of our crewed charter catamaran industry. There has been so much innovation that it is exciting to speculate on what may come. The entire boating industry has been significantly evolving and transforming for the past decade, especially regarding sustainability.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has already set ambitious targets for 2030 and 2050, and meeting them requires that boat performance is optimized for sustainability from design through to operations. So, what must happen to reach these in the next decade?

Today, we are already witnessing advanced technologies, heightened environmental concerns, and the rise in green chartering. At Boatbookings, we take a look into our crystal ball and set out some of the things we think may happen:

Zero-Emissions & Regulation

There are already potential solutions for a fossil-fuel-free future. Advanced propulsion systems are making their entry, reducing carbon emissions and helping to minimize the industry’s carbon footprint (as well as fumes and noise!). By 2030 there will be even more carbon neutrality projects, including the utilization of electric, hydrogen, fuel cells, and Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO, a sustainable fuel made from used vegetable oils). Alongside the IMO commitment to cut greenhouse emissions from shipping by at least 50% by 2050, we believe that stricter restrictions and regulations will begin to filter through in the next few years.

AI: Smarter Yachts 

We cannot talk about future predictions without considering technological shifts. Having already seen these over the past few years, we expect more to come with enhanced innovation and investment. One of the advancements that will continue is likely to be in AI and autonomous navigation systems, enabling boats to navigate with complete autonomy. The improved algorithms and sensors in the coming years will reduce the risk of human error, enhance safety, and improve efficiency. One shipyard leading the charge on this is Feadship. They have designed various concepts with full autonomy, replacing the standard helm with ‘command centers.’ There will also be more technology onboard boats that help revolutionize how they use and distribute energy; these smarter systems will better monitor consumption, enhancing efficiency.

Futuristic Building – 3D printing and more green materials

The developments in 3D printing are so exciting, and we believe will be transformative in boat building. It is hugely advantageous for manufacturing, whereby components can be made faster and with much less wastage. While at the moment, only a few pioneering companies are producing small boats and spare parts from 3D printing, soon this will expand to larger boats and every build process. With material waste dropping significantly, the process increases sustainability credentials. Alongside the building, shipyards will also begin to utilize greener materials that consider the entire lifecycle and, therefore, have less impact. 

Design Trends

In terms of actual design trends, builders will embrace designs that integrate entirely with natural environments, incorporating more sustainable materials and green living spaces. The interior spaces will blend more with the exterior, bringing the outside in. Many catamaran builders, such as Sunreef, are already working on this concept, and we believe future designs will embrace this biophilic design even more.

More and More Multihulls

At Boatbookings, we love offering our crewed and bareboat catamarans; these boats are the key to the best future. They boast better sustainability credentials such as improved efficiency, fewer emissions, reduced overall impact, and the use of renewable energy sources. Catamaran builders have seen increased demand over the years, and by 2030 perhaps multihulls will be the norm!

Today is just the beginning of a better future. The industry is in a transformative era, and we believe sustainability and technology to enhance experiences will be at the core. Contact our team at Boatbookings today to discuss your future on a greener crewed charter catamaran with us!

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The top 5 ways that boat design is embracing sustainability

Boat design is fundamental when it comes to improving the yacht charter industry’s green credentials. It is a powerful element that can help transform the fate of the future. 

Last week was ‘Earth Overshoot Day’, marking the date when our demand for resources in a given year exceeds what Earth can regenerate in that year. This is a poignant reminder of the immediate action we must take with the consumption and use of resources.  

More than 80% of the environmental impact of a product is determined at the design stage, so it is without a doubt, we must continue to design better. At Boatbookings, we have seen various design developments and trends in the right direction to pave the way toward a better future.

We take a look into these: 

1. Sustainable sourcing

When selecting materials to design boats, choosing ones that have less impact and are more earth-friendly is vital. Responsible and ethical sourcing is key; for example, Lagoon now sources wood and teak from FSC-certified forests. Some boat builders are now replacing traditional, synthetic, and toxic materials with natural fibers, such as Silent Yachts and its use of flax fibers, bamboo, and cork when they outfit their catamarans. There have also been exciting developments using recycled composites, the recent launch of nlcomp’s Ecoracer boat in Italy this year is a prime example. Hopefully, this is the beginning of recyclable composites used in bigger boat building in future years.

2. Life Cycle Assessments (LCA)

Today more designers are considering the entire lifecycle of design elements. Conducting lifecycle assessments can help identify where improvements can be made, from manufacturing to usage and maintenance. Pinpointing the environmental impacts at each stage can enable designers to make better decisions about what is used onboard. Sunreef, in particular, is spreading this mission of choosing greener materials, and the fabrics offered for its Eco-catamaran range have a Life Cycle Assessment analysis carried out to identify and minimize impact.  

3. Efficient construction 

When it comes to energy efficiency, it is important to keep the yacht as lightweight as possible, enabling it to use less fuel and, therefore, emit less emissions. There have been various developments in the use of lightweight materials and more efficient hull design. When it comes to better hull designs, at Boatbookings, we increased our offering of crewed charter catamarans over the last few years to help with the choice of greener options. The wide beam and twin-hull design of a catamaran offers better fuel efficiency. Efficient construction is also about integrating smart systems that minimize energy consumption onboard, such as lighting and climate control. 

4. Greener propulsion systems 

There have been so many advances in propulsion systems that have also enhanced energy consumption onboard. Hybrid propulsion systems are now commonly seen, integrating traditional engines with electric motors. Designers are also utilizing renewable energy sources such as solar panels; the Fountaine Pajot catamarans champion the use of solar panels for more sustainable cruising.

5. Eco-conscious interiors 

It is also important to look at what is on the inside. Interior designers have begun introducing more environmentally conscious interior materials, promoting renewable and non-toxic choices. There have been many exciting approaches and creative use of alternatives, such as using recycled ocean plastics for rugs and other fabrics. Materials such as organic cotton, hemp, cork, and flax are now being selected,. There has also been a rise in cruelty-free design and the use of vegan materials, for example, replacing leather with mushroom leather. 

We are at a vital crossroads in choosing a better future for our world; sustainability is no longer a buzzword. It requires commitment. At Boatbookings, we champion greener boat brands and embrace better design concepts. Contact the team at Boatbookings today to find out about our environmentally friendly yacht charters. 

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Charter Sustainbly: Spotlight on our new Sunreef 50 Eco, Tiril

We are excited to announce an addition to our crewed charter catamarans. This Sunreef 50 Eco, Tiril, is perfect for those wanting a quiet luxury and a lighter carbon footprint on their charter. 

What makes Tiril more sustainable? 

This isn’t just any charter catamaran; the Sunreef 50 Eco range is electric, innovative, and eco-conscious in design and operation. 

One standout feature is that you can cruise silently with Tiril. The Sunreef is fitted with solar panels, and with energy produced by these and the hydro-generators and wind generators, it boasts silent cruising. The energy is stored in ultralight battery banks, custom-engineered for the Eco range. 

The onboard air conditioning system is revolutionary, designed to keep you cool while conserving energy efficiently and not requiring a noisy generator.

Where will Tiril be?

Tiril will be available for charter across French Polynesia. An incredible, once-in-a-lifetime destination, the islands have plenty to offer. From lush islands and pristine waters to an abundance of tropical marine life. Cruising them in a Sunreef is perfect due to the shallow draft – well suited to easily navigating the atolls and idyllic anchorages. 

Our team can help you with bespoke and tailor-made itineraries, from Moorea to The Tuamotus, helping you explore the best of Polynesia while minimizing your carbon footprint. 

What does Tiril offer?

The Sunreef Eco 50 has four double ensuite cabins and a bunkbed cabin accommodating up to 10 guests. The yacht is fully equipped with everything you will need on a charter and has been finished with eco-responsible materials and sustainable decor.

You cannot cruise French Polynesia without plenty of watersports gear. Trill has sustainable sports such as scuba diving, snorkeling equipment, paddle boards, and wing foiling equipment. 

Onboard Tiril, you will be well looked after by its crew. Captain Clement has a passion for sailing and sustainability. He has sailed extensively for years and the last few have been spent exploring French Polynesia. He has also created an eco-responsible cocoa trading company. Lili, the cook and host, is a native of the Tuamotus. She will show you the incredible warmth of the people and culture of the islands. She will also ensure the highest level of luxury and comfort onboard. 

Get onboard Tiril today! 

What are you waiting for? To enjoy a greener crewed charter catamaran on Tiril in French Polynesia, contact the Boatbookings team today. We are passionate about our oceans and the impact the boating industry is having; that’s why we make sure we champion these greener alternatives going forward. Make a difference today and book a more sustainable charter option. 

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