What You Should Know About The World’s First All-Electric Boat Race

The electric boat sector is making waves in its journey toward a more sustainable future, with innovative ideas and developments emerging regularly.

At Boatbookings, we have long been a leader in embracing electric boating, which is why we offer our range of greener-crewed charter catamarans. The boating sector as a whole is prioritizing sustainability, with new technologies and concepts introduced, including the boat racing side of things…

The E1 Series 

In February this year, the world’s first all-electric boat race – the E1 Series – was launched. Labeled as “Formula 1 of the seas,” this series has been backed by high-profile names like Tom Brady and Sunreef’s ambassador Rafael Nadal. This pioneering event promises to transform the boating industry by showcasing cutting-edge technologies and more sustainable propulsion systems. 

It has been making its way around the world throughout the year, having kicked off in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This June, it is making its way to Europe, from Puerto Banus in Marbella and Geneva in Switzerland. Then it heads to Monaco in July, finishing up in Rotterdam in September. 

The RaceBird

Specifically built for the E1 Series, the RaceBird is a sleek and powerful electric powerboat developed to push boundaries. It is made of carbon fiber and weighs 800 kg. During the launch event, the RaceBird wowed spectators with its impressive performance. The boat model, with the help of Mercury Racing, reaches up to an eye-watering 50 knots. Kreisel provides advanced battery technology within the boat. 

RaceBird is a testament to the possibilities for the electric boating sector. The sustainable design incorporates state-of-the-art hydrofoil technology, effortlessly gliding through the water, significantly reducing drag, and maximizing energy efficiency. This enhances the boat’s performance and points toward more potential for future solutions on a wider scale. 

An Electric Future 

The E1 Series is an important catalyst for change. By bringing together the best minds in engineering, design, and sustainable technology, it is a platform to drive further technical developments in the electric boating industry. 

Charter Electric Today! 

There are so many benefits to chartering an electric boat for your yacht charter this year. From the improved boating experience to the greener credentials, you can immerse yourself in nature better with silent propulsion while protecting our oceans. 

Deciding to charter an electric boat is about committing to a more sustainable future for the boating industry. As you plan what crewed charter catamaran you will charter next, consider your choice’s impact and contact the Boatbookings team to talk about our greener-crewed charter catamarans and opt for electric. 

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. 

Eco-Conscious Charters: Our 5 Top Tips For New Boat Charter Clients

More and more boat charter clients are prioritizing sustainability and reducing their environmental footprint. At Boatbookings, we value this shift and want to guide new clients toward a better, more responsible boat charter for their next vacation. 

We have put together our top 5 tips for new boat charter clients: 

1. Choose a Greener Boat 

Within the Boatbookings fleet, there is an extensive range of boats to choose from. Whether you opt for a crewed charter catamaran, motor yacht, or sailing yacht. Or, if you want to go it alone, we also have bareboat yachts for charter, both motor and sail. It is more important than ever to choose a greener yacht in today’s world, which is why we work hard to offer a broader fleet of greener boats, such as our selection of greener crewed catamarans

2. Select Better Preferences 

While yachts are well-stocked for your vacation, consider opting for things that reduce your impact. For example, you can request reef-safe sunscreen, refillable water bottles, and eco-friendly toiletries. Selecting preferences will also ensure the crew knows exactly what you require for your trip, making it an unforgettable experience. 

3. Pick A Quieter Destination 

There are so many places worldwide you can explore this summer by boat. Our Boatbookings team can help you plan your itinerary and choose the best places to visit. The Mediterranean is one of our favorite spots, from the French Riviera to Greece. Although some of these hotspots are at risk of over-tourism, selecting a quieter, more off-the-tourist track destination will help you get away from overcrowded destinations. We can also advise you on the local marine conservation initiatives in these areas to get involved in while you are there.

4. Offset Your Emissions 

Despite efforts to reduce environmental impacts, most yacht charters will still release carbon emissions. You can help counteract this by purchasing carbon offsets that invest in clean energy projects and other activities that remove greenhouse gasses from the atmosphere. Our carbon offset calculator can help you accurately assess the yacht’s footprint throughout your vacation. 

5. Respect Marine Life

A huge advantage to a boat charter is the opportunity to observe diverse marine species. However, it is vital to do so responsibly, avoid disturbing or feeding wildlife, and never remove anything from the ocean. 

Following these tips and using simple eco-conscious practices means you and future charter clients can experience the joy of a boat charter while minimizing the impact on our fragile ocean ecosystems. Contact one of the Boatbookings team to find out more about our greener crewed charter catamarans

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

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.