Tag Archives: sustainability

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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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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Yacht Show Season: Showing Off Sustainably

After a successful summer in the Mediterranean, we are approaching the anticipated yacht show season. Yacht shows are the highlight of our boating calendars and are not to be missed.

In recent years, more efforts have been made to host greener shows with more exhibitors with sustainable solutions and better initiatives for running a more sustainable event. 

At Boatbookings, sustainability is high on our agenda, particularly with our offerings and our greener crewed charter catamarans. With the Cannes Yacht Show (12-17 September) and the Monaco Yacht Show (27-30 September) on the horizon, we reflect on some of the initiatives yacht show organizers and attendees are doing to help step up sustainability. 

Waste less

Yacht shows have long been tarnished with excessive waste. From setting up temporary infrastructure to a lot of single-use plastic, we are seeing a shift in recent years. There are numerous small changes that are helping reduce waste, such as lanyards being either made from recyclable materials or being returned to be reused. Other marketing materials such as business cards, brochures, and flags have also started to pop up in reusable and recyclable materials – we most recently came across business cards you could plant and grow into a flower! There have also been moves for event organizers to be more mindful of infrastructure. For example, after last year’s Fort Lauderdale show, the marquees were donated to a sea turtle conservation organization. 

Offsetting travel 

It isn’t a surprise that people come far and wide to yacht shows. The boating community is global, and this additional travel adds to the carbon footprint. However, more organizations and attendees recognize this and have begun to offset their carbon responsibility, contributing to environmental projects. We already have our carbon emissions calculator to calculate emissions for each boat, allowing you to offset when you charter. Perhaps more shows could also have this in place. Last year Palm Beach Show teamed up with Yacht Carbon Offset to facilitate this. 

Catering to sustainability 

Yacht shows usually have many opportunities to network over meals and drinks. More shows have implemented sustainability initiatives regarding their catering suppliers, for example, using local and seasonal produce and composting any waste. As well as these choices, many of them also aim to use better packaging and minimize single-use plastic. 

Image courtesy of Sailia Yachts

Platform for change – Electric featured yachts and sustainability hubs

The yacht shows are the perfect opportunity to showcase innovative technology in the realm of sustainability, such as advanced propulsion or products made from eco-friendly materials. They also set the stage for effective discussions around sustainability. Many of them hold specific seminars, presentations, and workshops on the future of the industry. Some also have dedicated areas to showcase sustainability, such as the ‘Green Route’ at the Cannes Yacht Show, highlighting exhibitors’ sustainable solutions, and the Sustainability hub at the Monaco Yacht Show. For instance, Sailia Yachts will be in the Hub with their line of fully electric motor yachts that can accelerate to 32 knots in 7 seconds!

Contact us to meet one of our Boatbookings brokers at any of the upcoming shows, to chat all things sustainability, and to find out about our greener crewed charter catamarans. 

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Lagoon Catamarans step up their sustainability efforts

Over the years, we have loved seeing the developments of the crewed charter catamarans we offer, especially from the builders who prioritize sustainability – such as Lagoon catamarans. 

The Lagoon brand of catamarans is part of the Beneteau Group and has been committed to preserving our oceans for years ever since the brand was launched in 1984. Here are three key initiatives that Lagoon is incorporating into its catamarans to make them more environmentally friendly. 

1. Greener propulsion systems 

Many clients that charter a Lagoon tend to sail in remote areas, so energy autonomy is crucial. Lagoon has focused on energy efficiency for some time, using solar panels and wind turbines, carefully selecting energy-efficient equipment and appliances while maintaining a high level of comfort onboard. 

In terms of propulsion, they are a pioneer in offering hybrid propulsion, as well as solar panels integrated into the coachroof, which is why we have been offering them with Boatbookings for many years. They have also invested heavily in studies to improve hull shapes and their models’ efficiency continually. 

2. Sustainable materials 

They are also built better! Lagoon now uses many more sustainable materials within its build process. For example, the wood is derived from FSC-certified forests, and the upholstery is made entirely from recycled materials. Plans for Lagoon include replacing all glass fiber with natural hemp fiber. They have also made substantial technological advances in resin and fiber, which looks promising for their future models – watch this space. 

3. Sustainability is high on their agenda 

Lagoon continuously innovates to improve, and sustainability is a key focus. Aside from enhanced energy efficiency and greener materials, Lagoon also includes ecological and biodegradable boat maintenance kits with each catamaran. 

Another commitment that Lagoon has made is to Anima Mundi, and their partnership is seeking to create the first complete database of plastic waste on the coastline with the assistance of Lagoon owners. Lagoon has also partnered with Escape to Nature. Their expert cinematographers are onboard a Lagoon 55 in remote areas of the Pacific to highlight the importance of preserving the underwater world. 

Lagoon takes a holistic approach. The Research and Development team is constantly researching construction methods to improve the sustainability of their yachts. They have also invested in their facilities, which are certified to high standards of environmental management and energy performance. This year the yard’s Bordeaux site has officially been certified in recognition of their efforts. 

How about a beautiful Lagoon for your next charter? While Lagoon catamarans are the epitome of comfort and performance in the catamaran world with their spacious interiors, stability, versatility, and sailing capabilities, they are also helping sailors minimize their impact. Contact one of the team at Boatbookings today to learn more about our crewed charter catamarans with Lagoon. 

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