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The Promises and Pitfalls of an All-Electric Yacht

• By Tim Murphy
• Updated: November 8, 2021

This past October, I saw one of the most interesting exhibits in more than 500 new cruising sailboats I’ve reviewed over two decades. It was the Arcona 435Z, built in Sweden and introduced by Graham Balch of Green Yachts in San Francisco. Balch describes his business as “a new brokerage dedicated to the electric revolution on the water,” and it was the “Z” in the boat’s name, which stands for “zero emissions,” that made this boat so interesting. This was the first electric propulsion system—not hybrid but all-electric —I’d ever seen on a cruising sailboat.

Electric propulsion isn’t new. Since 1879, electric motors have propelled boats; a fleet of some four-dozen electric launches transported visitors around the 1893 Colombian Exposition in Chicago. But cruising sailboats are not launches, and the open sea is not a protected canal. When we’re using cruising boats as they’re meant to be used, they seldom end their day plugged into a shore-power outlet. Cruising boats comprise many devices —stove, refrigerator, freezer, windlass, winches, autopilot, radar, lights—whose power typically comes from a tank of fossil fuel. And today’s cruising sailors are accustomed to using diesel auxiliary power to motor through lulls or punch into headwinds and seas.

Starting about 15 years ago, we saw a wave of diesel-electric and hybrid propulsion systems on production and custom cruising boats ( see “Perpetuated Motion,” CW , March 2005 ). Both of those systems ultimately start with an onboard internal-combustion engine. A diesel-electric propulsion system relies on a running genset to directly power the electric motor that turns the propeller. A hybrid system relies on batteries to power the electric motor, plus an internal-combustion genset to recharge the batteries. One of the promises of a hybrid system is the ability to regenerate electrical power. Regeneration means using boatspeed under sail to turn the propeller, whose spinning shaft sends electrons from the electric motor back through an electronic controller to recharge the batteries. In such a system, the boat’s propeller is both an electrical load (when running under power) and a charging source (when sailing in regeneration mode).

The Arcona 435Z was different from both of these systems: It incorporates no onboard fossil-fuel engine at all. Instead, it has a bank of lithium batteries, several solar panels, and a proprietary propulsion leg that looks like a saildrive. “This boat,” Balch said, “has the very first production unit in the world of Oceanvolt’s newest electric propulsion system, called the ServoProp.”

For our sea trial, Balch was joined by Derek Rupe, CEO of Oceanvolt USA. “If you can sail the boat and you have some solar, you can go anywhere in the world, and you can make all your power underway while you go,” Rupe said. When we spoke in October 2020, he touted three high-profile sailors who were using the Oceanvolt electric propulsion system: Alex Thomson, for his Hugo Boss Open 60 Vendée Globe program; Jimmy Cornell, for his Elcano 500 expedition; and Riley Whitelum and Elayna Carausu, who had been teasing their new boat for months on their popular Sailing La Vagabonde YouTube channel.

The efficiency of Oceanvolt’s ServoProp and the regeneration from it is the promised game-changer in each of these boats. The ServoProp is a leg with a ­feathering propeller that can be set for optimal pitch in three modes: forward, reverse and regeneration.

“You don’t need fuel,” Rupe said. “You don’t need to dock; you can go anywhere you want to go and always have the power for living and propulsion.”

That’s the promise. But are there also pitfalls?

Innovation and Risk

Marine electric propulsion is an emerging technology. Compared with the mature and settled technology of diesel engines and lead-acid batteries, electric-propulsion systems—with their electronic controllers and lithium batteries—are in a stage of development best described as adolescent. Every sailor has his or her own tolerance for technical innovation. For the promise of fewer ­seconds per mile, grand-prix-racing sailors willingly trade a high risk of expensive damage to the sails, rig or the boat’s structure itself; cruising sailors, by contrast, tend to favor yearslong reliability in their equipment as they seek miles per day.

Folks who identify as early adopters take special joy in the first-wave discoveries of a new technology; if they’re clear-eyed about supporting an ongoing experiment, they see themselves as partners with the developers, accepting failures as opportunities for learning. Sailors motivated primarily by changing the trajectory of climate change might be especially willing to modify their behavior to limit their own output of greenhouse gases. Investing in any emerging technology asks you to start with a clear assessment of your own risk tolerance. We’ll return to this theme with one or two real-life examples.

The American Boat and Yacht Council, founded in 1954, sets recommended standards for systems installed on recreational boats. For decades, ABYC has published standards related to installations of diesel and gasoline engines, as well as electrical systems based around lead-acid batteries. By contrast, it was only three years ago that ABYC came out with its first electric-propulsion standard (revised July 2021). And only last year it published its first technical-information report on lithium batteries (a technical-information report is an early step toward a future standard). The takeaway is that if you need help servicing your diesel engine or electrical system built around lead-acid batteries, you can pull into any reasonable-size port and find competent technicians to help you. With electric propulsion and lithium batteries, that pool of skilled talent is significantly scarcer.

To say that a technology is mature simply means that we’ve learned to live with it, warts and all, but that it holds few remaining surprises. Certainly, diesel-propulsion and lead-acid-battery technologies each leave plenty of room for improvement. When a charge of fuel ignites in the combustion ­chamber of a diesel engine, some three-quarters of the energy is lost in heat and the mechanical inefficiencies of converting reciprocating motion to rotation. Lead-acid batteries become damaged if we routinely discharge more than half of their capacity. During charging, they’re slow to take the electrons we could deliver.

Lithium batteries are comparatively full of promise. Their power density is far greater than that of lead-acid batteries, meaning they’re much lighter for a given capacity. They’re capable of being deeply discharged, which means you can use far more of the bank’s capacity, not merely the first half. And they accept a charge much more quickly; compare that to several hours a day running an engine to keep the beers iced down.

But the pitfalls? Let’s start with ABYC TE-13, Lithium Ion Batteries. Some of its language is bracing. “Lithium ion batteries are unlike lead-acid batteries in two important respects,” the report says. “1) The electrolyte within most lithium ion batteries is flammable. 2) Under certain fault conditions, lithium ion batteries can enter a condition known as thermal runaway, which results in rapid internal heating. Once initiated, it is a self-perpetuating and exothermic reaction that can be difficult to halt.”

Thermal runaway? Difficult to halt? Self-perpetuating?

“Typically, the best approach is to remove heat as fast as possible, which is most effectively done by flooding the battery with water,” TE-13 continues, “although this may have serious consequences for the boat’s electrical systems, machinery, buoyancy, etc.”

If you were following the news in January 2013, you might remember the ­story of Japan Airlines Flight 008. Shortly after landing at Boston’s Logan Airport, a mechanic opened the aft ­electronic equipment bay of the Boeing 787-8 to find smoke and flames billowing from the auxiliary-power unit. The fire extinguisher he used didn’t put out the flames. Eventually Boston firefighters put out the fire with Halotron, but when removing the still-hissing batteries from the plane, one of the ­firefighters was burned through his ­professional protective gear.

Samsung Galaxy cellphones, MacBook Pro laptops, powered skateboards—in the past decade, these and other devices have been recalled after their lithium batteries burned up. In that period, several high-end custom boats were declared a total loss following failures from lithium batteries. In March 2021, a 78-foot Norwegian hybrid-powered tour boat, built in 2019 with a 790 kW capacity battery bank, experienced thermal runaway that kept firefighters on watch for several days after the crew safely abandoned the ship.

Yes, experts are learning a lot about how to mitigate the risks around lithium batteries. But we’re still on the learning curve.

ABYC’s TE-13 “System Design” section starts, “All lithium-ion battery ­systems should have a battery ­management system (BMS) installed to prevent damage to the battery and provide for battery shutoff if potentially dangerous conditions exist.” It defines a bank’s “safe operating envelope” according to such parameters as high- and low-voltage limits, charging and discharging temperature limits, and charging and ­discharging current limits.

Graham Balch takes these safety recommendations a step further: “To our knowledge, the BMS has to monitor at the cell level. With most batteries, the BMS monitors at the module level.” The difference? “Let’s say you have 24 cells inside the battery module, and three of them stop working. Well, the other 21 have to work harder to compensate for those three. And that’s where thermal events occur.”

Balch followed the story of the Norwegian tour boat this past spring. He believes that the battery installation in that case didn’t meet waterproofing standards: “The hypothesis is that due to water intrusion, there was reverse polarity in one or more of the cells, which is worse than cells simply not working. It means that they’re actively working against the other cells. But if the BMS is monitoring only at the module level, you wouldn’t know it.”

On the Green Yachts website, Graham lists five battery manufacturers whose BMS regimes monitor at the cell level. “If I were sailing on an electric boat, whether it be commercial or recreational, I would feel comfortable with having batteries from these five companies and no other,” he said.

The broader takeaway for today’s sailors is that lithium batteries bring their own sets of problems and solutions, which are different from those of conventional propulsion and power-supply technologies. A reasonably skilled sailor could be expected to change fuel filters or bleed a diesel engine if it shuts down in rough conditions. With lithium-ion batteries aboard, an operator needs to understand the causes and remedies of thermal runaway, and be ready to respond if the BMS shuts down the boat’s power.

Real-World Electric Cruising Boats

When we met Oceanvolt’s Derek Rupe a year ago, he and his wife had taken their all-electric boat to the Bahamas and back the previous season. Before that, he’d been installing electric-propulsion packages for six years on new Alerion 41s and other refit projects. “My real passion is on the technical side of things—installations, really getting that right. That’s half the picture. The technology is there, but it needs to be installed correctly.”

When talking to Rupe, I immediately encountered my first learning curve. I posed questions about the Oceanvolt system in amps and amp-hours; he responded in watts and kilowatt-hours. This was yet another example of the different mindset sailors of electric boats need to hold. Why? Because most cruising boats have just one or two electrical systems: DC and AC. The AC system might operate at 110 or 220 volts; the DC side might operate at 12 or 24 volts. On your own boat, that voltage is a given. From there we tend to think in terms of amps needed to power a load, and amp-hours of capacity in our battery banks. Going back to basics, the power formula tells us that power (watts) equals electrical potential (volts) times current (amps). If your boat’s electrical system is 12 volts and you know that your windlass is rated at 400 watts, it follows that the windlass is rated to draw 33 amps.

But an all-electric boat might comprise several systems at different voltages. A single battery bank might supply cabin lights at 12 volts DC; winches and windlasses at 24 volts DC; the propulsion motor at 48 volts DC; and an induction stove, microwave and television at 110 volts AC. A DC-to-DC power converter steps the voltage up or down, and an inverter changes DC to AC. Instead of translating through all those systems, the Oceanvolt monitor (and Derek Rupe) simply reports in watts coming in or going out of the bank.

“We keep all our thoughts in watts,” Rupe said. “Watts count in the AC induction. They count in the DC-to-DC converter. They count the solar in. They count the hydrogeneration in. And the ­power-management systems tracks it that way for shore-power in.

“On a boat like this, maybe I have 500 watts coming in the solar panels,” he continued. “So then I can think: ‘Well, my fridge is using 90 watts. My boat has an electric stove. When I cook a big meal, I can see that for every hour we cook, we lose about 10 to 12 minutes of our cruising range.’”

During his Bahamas cruising season, Rupe observed that on days that they were sailing, the combination of solar panels and hydroregeneration supplied all the power he and his wife needed. “When we weren’t sailing,” he said, “we found that we were losing 8 percent each day, in the difference from what the sun gave us to what we were using for the fridge, lights, charging our laptops, and all that stuff.”

Rupe’s solution? “Twice in Eleuthera and once outside Major’s, we went out and sailed laps for a couple of hours because the batteries were below 30 percent of capacity. It was good sailing, and the wind was coming over the shore, so we didn’t have any sea state. We did a couple of hot laps on nice beam reaches, and generated about 700 watts an hour.”

Of the three sailors Rupe touted in October 2020—Alex Thomson, Jimmy Cornell and the Sailing La Vagabonde couple—only Cornell can report back on his all-electric experiences with Oceanvolt. Alex Thomson ended his circumnavigation abruptly last November, just 20 days after the Vendée Globe start, when Hugo Boss collided with an object in the South Atlantic. And at press time in early fall 2021, Riley and Elayna had just recently announced the build of their new Rapido trimaran; keep an eye on their YouTube channel for more about their experiences with the Oceanvolt propulsion system.

As for Cornell—circumnavigator, World Cruising Routes author, creator of the transoceanic rally, and veteran of some 200,000 ocean miles—he suspended his planned Elcano 500 round-the-world expedition solely because of the Oceanvolt system in his new Outremer catamaran. His Aventura Zero Logs on the Cornell Sailing website, particularly the Electric Shock article posted on December 2, 2020, are essential reading for any sailor interested in sailing an electric boat. “Sailing around the world on an electric boat with zero emissions along the route of the first circumnavigation was such a tempting opportunity to do something meaningful and in tune with our concern for protecting the environment that my family agreed I should do it,” Cornell wrote. “What this passage has shown was that in spite of all our efforts to save energy, we were unable to regenerate sufficient electricity to cover consumption and top up the batteries.”

Cornell’s experience in that article is raw, and his tone in that moment bitterly disappointed. We recommend it as essential reading—not as a final rejection of the electric-boat concept or of Oceanvolt’s system, or even as an endorsement of Cornell’s own decision that the system didn’t work. I suspect that I may have arrived at the same conclusion. Yet given the same boat in the same conditions, one imagines that a new breed of sailor—a Graham Balch or a Derek Rupe—may have responded differently to the constraints imposed by an all-electric boat, as nearly every cruising sailor today habitually responds to the inconvenient constraints of diesel engines and lead-acid batteries.

“If you bring electric winches, electric heads and an induction stove, and then sail into a high-pressure system, you’ll set yourself up for failure,” Balch said. “You have to balance your power inputs and your power outputs.

“Sailing an electric boat is a return to the tradition of sailing that the crutch of a diesel engine has gotten us away from,” he added. “Magellan’s fleet got all the way around the world, and they didn’t have a diesel engine.”

Tim Murphy is a Cruising World editor-at-large and ­longtime Boat of the Year judge.

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How hybrid sailing yachts finally became a feasible option

• May 17, 2019

They’ve been a long time coming, but marine hybrid propulsion systems are finally a working reality, as Sam Fortescue reports

The Bootswerft Heinrich-built 13m Yamila uses an Oceanvolt electric motor rather than a diesel engine. Photo: Peter Minder

Every sailor is familiar with the wet cough of the diesel engine, and the acrid smell of its exhaust. For some it’s the sign that an adventure is starting, for others it is the reassurance that all is well on board the boat. The traditional engine is perhaps your boat’s most important safety feature, but its days may be numbered.

The electric sailing revolution is coming – and though adoption in the marine sector is proving much slower than in the automotive world ashore, progress is being made.

The market is still relatively small. Clear market leader Torqeedo had sales of €25m last year, most of which was in ferries and compact outboards. It also offers a range of saildrive and pod drive motors for yachts displacing from 2 to 50 tonnes, or roughly 20-60ft LOA.

But sailors have been slow on the uptake, and for one good reason: if you’re planning to cross an ocean or take on tough conditions offshore, you rely on your engine to help you outrun danger or motor through the doldrums – sometimes for days at a time.

Oceanvolt AXC series is a modular shaft drive system (10kW to 40kW) that will fit in place of a tradition diesel engine

Even with the current crop of advanced lithium-ion boat batteries , the range of an electric system is measured in tens of miles, not hundreds. So a 35ft monohull with 10kWh of lithium battery (four units weighing 96kg in total) would have a range of just 24 nautical miles at 3.8 knots, or less than 16 nautical miles at full throttle.

Taking into account the incredible wastage of combustion engines, which dissipate more energy as heat and noise than they provide in propulsion, diesel is still ten times more energy dense than batteries.

Full-carbon luxury daysailer Yamila uses an Oceanvolt SD8 8kW electric saildrive system. Photo: Tobias Stoerkle

“When you look at bluewater cruisers, of course you will have a diesel,” says Torqeedo’s founder and CEO, Dr Christoph Ballin. “And it’s right that not many coastal sailors opt for pure electric.”

But that doesn’t mean that electric has no interest for cruising sailors – far from it. The more common route for ‘normal’ sailors will be to combine diesel and electric in a hybrid sailing system.

Under this model, the engine is replaced by an electric motor, hooked up to a bank of lithium batteries. This can be charged via hydrogeneration – when the speed under sail turns the propeller and puts charge back into the batteries – and solar or wind. But when extended periods under power are required a standalone DC generator, which can be installed anywhere on board, supplies the electricity.

This is the set-up recommended by Finland’s Oceanvolt, which has focused on the cruising sailing market with a range of shaft and sail drive motors from 3.7kW to 15kW (roughly 10hp to 45hp in diesel engine terms).

“In the case of the round-the-world cruiser, we recommend a hybrid system with a backup genset to support continuous drive when/if needed,” says Oceanvolt CEO Markus Mustelin. “A regenerating prop, which spins while sailing and recharges the batteries (sacrificing 0.2-0.4 of a knot, depending on the boat and conditions) makes it possible to be almost independent of the genset and use it only for backup.”

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This system has the advantage that the generator is only needed on longer passages, so the boat still manoeuvres silently in and out of ports and anchorages.

And a well-designed, correctly sized generator is much more efficient at turning diesel into electricity than an engine not originally designed for the job. Some sailors opt for an in-line hybrid system, like those offered by Hybrid-Marine, which bolts onto the existing diesel.

These are easier to retrofit, with many of the same characteristics as the full hybrid system, but there’s the disadvantage of still having an engine boxed away somewhere near the middle of the boat.

Electro magnetism

Until now, most business has been done through retrofitting existing yachts. But an increasing number of yacht builders are looking to include electric propulsion as original equipment. The world’s third largest boatbuilder, Hanse Yachts , is perhaps the most advanced – offering its entry-level Hanse 315 with an electric rudder-drive option.

The system takes up less space than the standard diesel, is much quieter and vibration- and emissions-free. But Hanse admits take up has been disappointing.

The technology has found more interest among lake sailors. Innovative young German brand Bente has been fitting Torqeedo motors to its successful 24ft model, originally designed for Germany’s ‘Green Lakes’.

Closer to home, dinghy specialist RS Sailing has decided to fit a retractable electric drive to its new RS21 keelboat. Already christened the ‘invisible gennaker’, the system is based on Torqeedo’s Travel 1003 outboard motor.

Bigger race boats have also been attracted by the lure of low-weight propulsion. Just look at Malizia , an IMOCA 60 being prepared for the 2020 Vendée Globe with a lightweight Torqeedo system.

“Emissions-free round the world under race conditions, while simultaneously producing your own energy, is a thoroughly inspirational concept,” said Malizia skipper Boris Herrmann.

Electric has also been successful at the luxury end of the market, where lithium-ion batteries account for a smaller share of the boat’s overall cost. A 50ft Privilege 5 catamaran and a carbon fibre Gunboat 60 have both been retrofitted with Torqeedo kit, while Oceanvolt appears on a Swan 57 and an all-carbon Agile 42.

Overview of the Torqeedo Deep Blue propulsion system installed in the Gunboat Moonwave

The Gunboat Moonwave has two 25kW Deep Blue saildrives both capable of regenerating under sail. There is still a generator on board to extend battery range offshore, but “they no longer use the generator – it’s just for emergency,” says Torqeedo’s Ballin.

Spirit Yachts is also designing electric propulsion into its Spirit 111  flagship, due for launch this summer. With four big 40kW lithium batteries aboard and a 100kW motor, the yacht will be able to operate silently for hours, although it also has 100kW of diesel generator capacity.

“The real focus is not the propulsion,” explains Spirit director Nigel Stuart, “but that everything works in harmony, from galley equipment and hot water to heating, air conditioning, hydraulics etc.” The British yard is also building a 65-footer using Oceanvolt hybrid technology and a new 44-footer that is pure electric.

With racing on one hand and high-end cruisers on the other, there is something of a gap in the middle. By Torqeedo’s own admission, the cruising sailor hasn’t been a big focus of the electric revolution, but all that is about to change. “We started a bit late with sailing,” Ballin admits, “but in the next five to eight years it will be addressed big time.”

Fully integrated electric drive system will power the new 111ft Spirit Yachts flagship

What does that really mean? Well, in the first instance, it means system integration. If that doesn’t sound revolutionary, then imagine a set-up on board where solar panels, hydrogenerators, batteries, generators and motors all worked seamlessly together to keep the yacht supplied with ample power around the clock. “That’s what people are willing to pay for: plenty of energy with heating or air-con through the night,” says Ballin.

The future of hybrid sailing

In the near future, Torqeedo is planning a new range-extending DC generator specifically for hybrid sailing boats. Its existing unit is built by WhisperPower and provides 25kW, which is too much power for boats using the pod drive system.

The genset will be designed to operate at optimum revolutions, while clever DC to DC conversion decouples the battery voltage from the charging voltage, for much greater efficiency.

With boats, just as with cars, the breakthrough that will make all the difference is around battery capacity. Until range under electric power can match that of diesel, there will be many sceptics. And that isn’t likely to happen for a decade or more, according to Ballin.

“Theoretically, they’ve tested batteries in labs that are ten times more efficient than lithium,” he explains. “And if that comes through, then gasoline is done. But we are trying to combine long-term vision with short-term mindset.”

In the meantime, the prevalent technology is based on lithium-manganese-cobalt, and a process of steady development is making this 5-8% better each year. For example, BMW has just announced its next generation i3 battery, used by Torqeedo’s Deep Blue system, will be able to hold 40kWh of power – an increase of 33% for the same size, weight and nearly the same cost.

Torqeedo Cruise 2.0 FP Pod Drive is suitable for small yachts up to 4 tonnes – a folding prop can also be fitted

The other area of development is around the propeller. Most cruising systems use a folding or feathering prop designed for diesel engines. But Torqeedo’s own research shows that the consistently high torque of an electric motor is best utilised by props with variable pitch.

And yet it is Oceanvolt that has addressed this issue specifically for electric motors with its Servo Prop system, which it claims to be 30% more efficient ahead, 100% better astern and 300% more efficient in regeneration mode.

Oceanvolt says that this prop can pump around 500W into the batteries at just 5 knots – the average pace of a 30ft monohull. At 6 knots that rises to around 800W, and at a very manageable 7 knots for a larger ocean cruiser you get 1.2kW.

“A new technology can rarely compete in price with an established one in its initial growth phase,” says Mustelin. “However, we have passed this and today electric systems are offered at a quite competitive price. When you add to that the fact the electric system is almost service free, the total cost of ownership is turning in favour of electric.”

So, you may not hear them approach, but expect to see more and more electric-powered boats on the water as the revolution continues.

A question of torque

A key part of the viability of electric propulsion rests on the notion that a smaller motor can achieve the same work as a bigger diesel. There are two elements to this. First, a diesel engine is not an efficient converter of chemical energy into thrust, creating a lot of heat and noise in the process. Second, the torque characteristics of electric are much better than diesel.

Mustelin says that Oceanvolt’s 10kW motor “easily outperforms” a 30hp diesel. “Typically, maximum boat speed will be somewhat lower (0.5kt-1.0kt) than with a comparable diesel engine, but at the same time the boat will maintain the speed better in heavy seas and headwind due to higher torque. Manoeuvrability is much better in confined marina spaces.”

That’s because combustion engines only reach peak power (and maximum torque) over a small range of speeds. Torque is a measure of turning power – at the propeller in the case of a boat.

A diesel engine develops optimum torque between 1,800-2,000rpm, while electric motors deliver it from 0 to around 2,000rpm. This allows electric motors to use higher efficiency propellers that are slimmer and more steeply pitched.

Engine-driven: The ‘alternator on steroids’

It has taken years of development and over $10m of funding, but renowned boat systems expert Nigel Calder has helped design an alternator so powerful that it eliminates the need for a generator on board.

Mounted on the engine, on the second alternator position, the Integrel can produce five to ten times more power. Sitting behind the system is at least 10kWh of lead acid batteries (lithium is also an option), and Victron chargers and inverters.

“If you crank the engine it’ll charge the batteries; if you’re running with the engine in neutral, it’ll know it’s in standalone generator mode and switch to that algorithm,” explains Calder. “It will likely be cheaper than a generator installation, and eliminates the issue of the through-hulls, the cooling circuits, the long running hours, the maintenance.”

The system allows you to run all sorts of creature comforts on board that would normally require a generator: from hot water on-demand to coffee makers and freezers. “We honestly believe that this system is going to supplant generators on almost all boats that currently have, or would like to have, a generator,” adds Calder.

With the engine in gear and at low revs, tests show how the Integrel can produce some 2kW of power without increasing fuel consumption or reducing speed – simply utilising the engine’s wasted capacity. This means it will work with the yacht’s existing engine – no need to overspec – and it has already been successfully installed on a new Southerly 480, a Malo 46 and a similar-sized Hallberg-Rassy.

Case study: Dufour 382 Alcyone

Built by Dufour in 2016, Alcyone was immediately retrofitted professionally with Oceanvolt’s SD15 saildrive motor, supplied by a 14kWh lithium battery bank. Owners Michael Melling and Diana Kolpak also specced an 8kWh DC generator for range extension. The fit out cost €30,600 for the motor and battery system, plus an additional €13,744 for the generator, and installation costs were around €8,000.

They charter the boat out near Vancouver, for exploring Desolation Sound and the surrounding area where silent, clean propulsion is a selling point. “Nothing spoils the joy of sailing – or a secluded anchorage – more than the noise and smell of diesel engines,” they explained. “Installing an Oceanvolt system in our new boat has freed us from that. It’s the way of the future.”

Charter manager Merion Martin said the conversion has also been popular with charter customers, adding: “The main advantage of the system is that it consistently uses around 40% less fuel than a standard diesel engine over the course of a week’s charter. But understanding the power management system takes a bit of getting used to, and the many components involved in the system can make troubleshooting a challenge.”

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• Dec 21, 2022

High Voltage - 10 Electric Boats to Watch For in 2023

It's no secret -- electric boating is coming. That brings with it a fair share of opinions, and there are good arguments on both sides.

Gas-powered engines have been the backbone of boating since the advent of the internal combustion engine, so that makes for a strong track record going back literally centuries. Electric boating is still in its infancy, relatively speaking, and with that emergence comes growing pains. In the simplest of terms, electric boating is in the midst of sorting out how it can match key performance metrics like range, total energy output, and reliability that are on par with its gas-powered counterparts. Naysayers aren't wrong to say that electric boating isn't yet there, but the data behind that statement won't hold up for much longer.

In fact, 2023 could be the year that the proverbial floodgates open.

Engine manufacturers like Mercury Marine, Vision Marine Technologies, Torqeedo, and others are in the midst of an electric revolution. Mercury's new Avator electric outboard is just the start from the almighty Brunswick Corporation, and the 180e outboard from Vision Marine is already setting records . Mercury has already made bold claims about their plans for electric boats in 2023.

The tidal wave cometh.

Boatbuilders like Sweden's X-Shore are currently leading the pack by inching ever closer to large-scale market viability. Even auto manufacturers like General Motor s are starting to intertwine with the marine industry to help both sides advance their technological prowess.

So, what's in store for electric boating in 2023? Lots. Considering we've already taken a look at what's in store for gas-powered boating in 2023 , now is the time to go electric.

Here are 10 electric boats to watch for in 2023:

1) The X-Shore 1

As arguably the leaders of the electric boating movement, X-Shore has announced a new model with a drastically lower pricepoint than their previous offering, the Eelex 8000. While the Eelex 8000 continues to be the figurehead of the electric boating movement, the premise behind the 'X-Shore 1' is to make electric boating an achievable reality for boaters across the pricing spectrum. The 'X-Shore 1' is now primed to make a big splash in 2023. Read more .

2) Four Winns H2e Bowrider

Four Winns, which is owned by the larger Groupe Beneteau conglomerate, announced late in 2022 that they would be offering one of their popular 'H' Series dayboats in an electric configuration. This comes on the heels of Beneteau, which owns Four Winns, Wellcraft, Scarab, Glastron, Prestige, and others, announcing they will be adding electric power across their portfolio . In partnership with the aforementioned Vision Marine Technologies, the Four Winns H2e is a solid dayboat with a respectable 180 horsepower from Vision's E-Motion 180e outboard. Read more .

3) The Cybertruck IS a Boat!

Sure, it's not a 'boat' in the traditional sense, but its not not a boat. That's according to Tesla titan Elon Musk, who has claimed that the upcoming Cybertruck must be capable of serving as a boat in order to get from the Cybertruck assembly plant to nearby South Padre Island. It's a distance of 500m, and Musk claims that the Cybertruck must be 100% watertight and be built to accommodate such adventures. Considering that Tesla is the worldwide leader of all things electric, you can expect this to spill over into the marine world. Especially when boaters try taking their Cybertrucks for a ride around the marina... by water. Read more .

4) Riva El-Iseo

One of the world's best boutique boatmakers has taken the plunge. Fabled Italian manufacturer Riva is known for their impressive yachts, but they dipped their toe in the water of electric boating by launching the 27-foot El-Iseo. Designed as a yacht tender. The stunning runabout will use a Parker GVM310 electric motor, which packs some impressive performance for its size. If Riva is starting to dabble with their small boats, the larger ones won't be far behind. Read more .

5) Godfrey 'Mighty G' Pontoon

Not only is it a great name, but the 'Mighty G' from Godfrey will have 100% power as the renowned pontoon maker steps foot into electric boating. Sure, it's the 'Mighty G' but that clever play on words is actually for a relatively small platform with a 15'7'' LOA and just a 7'6" beam. But the thing is, that's plenty for a lot of pontoon boaters and daytrippers. The Mighty G will also have two configurations -- one for cruising and one for fishing -- and it's Torqeedo outboard will have power equivalent to a 25 horsepower gas-powered outboard. Small, but mighty. Read more .

6) Taiga 'Orca' PWC

Sure, it isn't a boat, but a PWC is a watercraft, so we're putting Taiga on the list. And it's not for the novelty, the technology behind Quebec's premier PWC builder is nothing short of impressive. The Orca PWC has a walloping 160 horsepower and a top speed of 104 km/h, which puts it on par with any high-end PWC on the market. It can also recharge up to 80% in just 30 minutes. If you're the investing type, Taiga is also a publicly traded company that has been doing well on the stock market. The company secured another $100 million in private investment funding in 2022 alone. Read more .

7) DeAntonio D48 Formenter

You might see a little overlap between the DeAntonio D48 Formenter and another boat on this list, but that's not a bad thing. The D48 is a beauty, but it also brings something to the table that no other boat on this list does -- hybrid power. The Formenter blends both gas and electric power which alternate at the primary power source depending on the boat's actibity. For low-mid speed maneuvers, two 15 kW retractable electric motors run the show. When it's go-time, a 400 hp Mercury outboard picks up the slack. Not too shabby. Read more .

8) Candela P-8 Passenger Boat

Candela has only been around since 2016, but in that time they've done an exceptional job reimagining the hydrofoil. The hydrofoil is actually a very old concept (you might recognize the name Sir Alexander Graham Bell, you know the telephone guy, he patented the concept in 1908), and Candela has blended some proven design traits with modern technology to create some remarkable watercraft. Their new P-8 Passenger is intended as a commercial shuttle or tourist vessel, but it also has potential as a handy dayboat. It produces a tiny 5 cm (2 in) wake and operates in near total silence, so for those looking for peace and quiet around the cottage, you'd be hard pressed to find a smoother ride than the P-8. Read more .

9) The 'Arc One'

The 'Arc' has a list of celebrity backers that include Will Smith, Kevin Durant, and P-Diddy, but don't let the Hollywood favoritism fool you. The Arc is legit. With a hefty financial backing, the company completed its first run in 2022 with it's Arc One , a 24-foot runabout that looks as unique as it performs. Visually it's a little... out there, but under the deck is packs a 220 kW battery pack that generates over 500 horsepower and a top speed exceeding 40 mph. Despite it's size and weight, it has enough juice for a 5 hour runtime, which is solid for the electric boat market. You can already reserve one with just a $1000 deposit, so get on that. Read more .

10) Pure Watercraft GM Pontoon

Like we mentioned before, there's a growing interplay between auto and marine manufacturers when it comes to electric power. Both sides have ample resources and good ideas, so it makes sense they'd start liaising with one another to take advantage of each other's capabilities. General Motors was one of the first to make that camaraderie apparent when they purchased 25% of Seattle-based Pure Watercraft for a cool $150 million USD. The intention was obviously to explore each other's battery technology, which ultimately led to the launch of Pure Watercraft's new boat -- a 24-foot pontoon that uses PW's own twin outboards paired with GM's 66 kW battery pack. The result is a unique boat (just look at the pics), but an excellent insight into the future of electric boating. Read more .

#news #products #culture #xshore #fourwinns #riva #godfrey #taiga #candela

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Four Electric Boat Motors Compared

• By Randy Vance
• Updated: September 17, 2020

Electric marine propulsion is rapidly advancing in market share while providing a fun and unique boating experience not available from internal combustion power.

Electric Motors Then

You might be surprised to learn that electric boats have been around since 1838. Inventors from Prussia, England and America began making vessels with lead-acid batteries—tons of lead-acid batteries per vessel—to move passengers quietly and efficiently. But the internal combustion engines invented in the late 1800s were more powerful and convenient, and with the exception of Elco electric motors, electric power fell away in popularity. In 1934, Minn Kota manufactured the first electric outboard. Then, in the 1960s, bass tournament fishing popularized big-horsepower gas engines for speed, and electric trolling motors for precise boat handling. You might say the fishermen were ahead of the curve by about 60 years on hybrid boats.

Electric Motors Today

We are focusing on production models that can be easily installed by a do-it-yourselfer or OEM without special training. Lithium-ion batteries can be volatile if not properly installed, so some companies require their trained tech to do that.

Electric outboards are expensive, and while we’ve listed the purchase cost, the batteries available are too numerous to name or price, and can cost more than the motor.

A mathematic equation easily converts kilowatt-hours to horsepower, and our math revealed the calculated horsepower to be considerably less than the equivelant horsepower suggested by manufacturers.

Torqeedo provides completely integrated motor, battery and controls. Electronically controlled systems give its motors greater range per battery capacity and, similar to a fuel gauge, help operators conserve energy when needed or tell them when they can splurge on maximum throttle. The batteries are provided by BMW, but it is Torqeedo’s control system that manages output, heat and recharge operations to protect and optimize battery capacity and motor performance.

Range of Power: Outboards from Ultralight 403 at 400 W (about 1 hp) to Deep Blue at 50 kW (about 80 hp equivalent with 20 percent hole-shot boost), and inboards up to 100 kW (about 135 hp).

Most Popular Motor: Torqeedo’s Cruise 10 ($8,999) puts out 10 kW, or about 14 hp, but performs comparably to a 20 hp outboard thanks to Torqeedo’s software. In remote control, it is popular among pontoon boaters in particular, and commonly installed on pontoons used on neighborhood lakes requiring electric propulsion. Through digital controls, peak output is boosted beyond nominal output for a short time to improve acceleration at the hole shot, then returns to nominal output for optimal heat, range and speed control. A side- or top-mount controller—akin to the throttle—will cost $1,399, by the way.

Best Battery: The Torqeedo 48-5000 (5,000 Wh) lithium-ion battery ($5,159) is rated IP67 waterproof; connecting two or more in parallel extends the range.

Battery Compatibility: Compatible with any lithium-ion or AGM battery bank providing 48 volts, the Torqeedo can only operate in smart mode, measuring discharge, heat and other factors to dynamically manage power with Torqeedo batteries. With nonproprietary battery banks, Torqeedo motors mathematically, and less accurately, estimate range and consumption.

Chargers: The 2213 charger ($899) can recharge a 48-5000 battery in under 10 hours. It is rated IP65 water-resistant. The 2212-10 charger ($2,199) can recharge it in two hours.

Elco Motors

Elco has been building electric outboards for over 100 years—a figure that seems implausible to boaters who are beginning to see electric propulsion for the first time. The company’s engineering philosophy has remained the same: build plug-and-play systems, relying on battery power preferred by the customer, and design its motors to fit existing motor mounts, or provide standard transom clamps to make repowering simple and seamless.

Range of Power: Elco builds electric outboards with tiller or remote controls from 3.7 kW (about 5 hp) to 37 kW (about 50 hp). Elco’s inboards range from EP 6 to EP 100, with horsepower equivalents from 6 to 100.

Most Popular Motor: The EP 70 inboard ($15,995) can replace inboard diesel kickers and trawler motors, providing a top speed of 8 to 10 mph (7 to 8.5 knots) and a range of 23 to 41 miles. Its peak output is 51.5 kW (about 69 hp), and continuous output is 29.75 kW (about 40 hp). It needs nine 8-D 12-volt AGM batteries for a total of 108 volts. Lithium-ion batteries are also compatible in comparable volts and amps.

Best Battery: Battery banks from Lithionics are most commonly selected for new builds, and an EP-12 Victron AGM Deep Cycle 12V/220Ah bank is ideal ($5,409).

Battery Compatibility: Elco batteries are completely brand agnostic and connect with any quality battery bank providing the motor’s power demand. However, lithium-ion batteries still provide the most efficiency, along with full power to complete discharge. Even though their upfront investment is often more than double that of AGM batteries, the cost per charge is comparable while also lightening the boat and bringing better performance and range.

Chargers: The ElCon UHF3300 (1x) charger (starting at $825) takes three to four hours to restore battery banks, and the PFC 5000 fast charger reduces the time to two to three hours.

ePropulsion

This company boasts five electric propulsion systems engineered at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and entered the market in 2013. HKUST is also known as the incubator of many electronic products, including the DJI drone. Persistent engineering has brought new innovations to the marketplace.

Range of Power: The smallest offering from ePropulsion is a strap-on stand-up-paddleboard motor. Mainstream power includes two large outboards boasting 1 kW (about 1.35 hp) and 3 kW (about 4 hp) power, two pod drives of the same output, and the most popular portable Spirit 1.0 Plus.

Most Popular Motor: The Spirit 1.0 Plus ($1,999 including charger) is ePropulsion’s top-selling motor, ideal for small vessels, square-stern canoes, tenders and more. It’s a 1 kW motor that the company says offers 3 hp equivalent power with an industry-first direct-drive brushless motor. That’s a quiet arrangement, making the motor lighter and more efficient. It’s got a 75-minute run time at full speed, making 22 miles on a quickly exchangeable, integrated and included floating battery. Take a spare battery ($899) for longer range.

The Navy 3.0, ePropulsion’s latest motor, is 3 kW, or about 4 hp, though ePropulsion claims 6 hp equivalence. It’s available in tiller-steered and remote-control models. Its direct-drive, no-gear-case motor was a breakthrough in electric outboards, using a brushless motor that produced less sound and drag, and increased power and efficiency, offering a more serene experience.

Best Battery: There are three E-Series 48-volt batteries offered: The E40 ($1,200) provides 2,048 Wh, the E80 ($2,000) provides 4,096 Wh, and the E175 ($4,000) offers 8,960 Wh. The data-cable connections in ePropulsion batteries give battery management, enhancing range and speed.

Read Next: ePropulsion Lithium Iron Batteries

Chargers: Chargers available from ePropulsion are 10-, 20- and 30-amp modes ranging from $300 to $620.

Read Next: Learn About Garmin and Lowrance Electric Motors

Minn Kota Motors

Minn Kota has been making electric outboard motors since 1934, and its first model was a gear-driven, transom-mounted motor with a tiller. As time progressed, it improved motors slowly until the tournament bass-fishing craze began in the early 1960s. In that time, the motors have been popular as primary propulsion for dinghies and utility boats used for tenders, or positioning the boat for casting.

Range of Power: Models today range from simple tiller- steered motors to digitally remote-controlled motors complete with autopilot features and smartphone compatibility. The Vantage is the company’s primary propulsion motor.

Most Popular Motor: The Vantage ($1,549.99) is not Minn Kota’s most popular motor, but it’s a top contender in the boat market where electric propulsion is desired or required. The tiller-steered Vantage is ideal for use as a kicker for trolling, or propulsion for a tender or small johnboat. The variable-speed motor is digitally controlled to manage and conserve power for optimum range. Forward, neutral, reverse, and power trim to raise it are easily accessible on the tiller of this 24-volt motor. For some reason, Minn Kota does not list specs such as amps, kilowatts or watt-hours.

Best Battery: Minn Kota doesn’t offer batteries, but the motor is compatible with any battery bank producing 48 volts.

Battery Compatibility: Lead-acid, wet-cell batteries are still the most commonly used for small electric motors, but AGM (absorbed glass mat) batteries are more durable, offer more charge cycles, and are quickly replacing wet-cell batteries. Lithium-ion batteries shave 75 percent of the weight of lead-acid batteries, deliver full power to total discharge, and are actually more economical per charge cycle in spite of a 100 percent premium over AGMs.

Chargers: An MK 345 PC Precision Charger ($449.99) provides three-bank charging at 15 amps per bank.

• More: Boats , elco , electric boats , Engines , epropulsion , minn kota , torqeedo

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We Tested the Best All-Electric Boats on the Water. Here Are Our 3 Favorites.

A number of battery-powered models were put to the test—these three surged past expectations., michael verdon, michael verdon's most recent stories.

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• Share This Article

Unlike battery-powered cars, electric boats haven’t much made their way onto the scene, despite the earliest model having appeared in the 1830s, roughly the same time as the first electric car. Yet, a sea change may finally be on the way as the first generation of zero-emissions, commercially available electric boats hits the water. Aside from eschewing fossil fuel, these newcomers offer easy maintenance, boast lower operational costs and allow for remote trouble-shooting and software updates.

But the most striking common denominator across these three vessels? The smart, devil-in-the-detail designs. 

Voltari 260

The $450,000 Voltari 260 is designed around a performance hull that made the Pantera brand an offshore legend. But this boat, made from 100 percent carbon fiber, is 2,200 pounds lighter than a conventional fiberglass layup. Two electric motors connected to a single drive, and six battery packs with 142 kwh of total capacity, add to the boat’s total weight of 7,000 pounds. Peak output hits 550 kw (the equivalent of 740 hp) and you feel it—immediately—heading out into the Atlantic. With 995 ft lbs of torque, the motors delivered blistering acceleration and the deep-V hull kept everyone dry as the boat skipped across the chop. The Konrad outdrive and power steering added ambient noise to what is billed as a “silent” ride, but you can speak without yelling—something you can’t do with a big outboard on the stern.

The helm has everything you’d expect on a premium 26-footer: trim tabs, performance throttles and twin 17-inch Garmin screens that display navigation charts and customized cruising data. Fit and finish are first-rate, with a flawless carbon-fiber hull and cockpit (some areas left artistically exposed) set off by the hand-stitched Alcantara upholstery. Designer J. David Weiss’s black-and-gold topside is intentionally flashy without crossing into tacky, capped by a manta ray–inspired hardtop. And buyers can make their own color choices. Range anxiety is natural on a boat that claims a 60 mph top end, but Voltari says, in ideal conditions, a speed of 30 knots delivers a 35-mile range—a typical distance for the average day cruise.

Hacker-Craft 27 Sport

The Voltari’s alter ego, Hacker-Craft ’s 27 Special Sport, is a modern mahogany runabout with a 1920s aesthetic that sets the standard for the luxury lake boat. The wooden boat builder partnered with Orlando-based Ingenity—a specialist in creating electric marine propulsion platforms—to create a state-of-art system for the 27. It certainly works as we found out on a recent run. In calm water, instant torque glues you to the soft, white (aka Prodigy Cream) upholstery as the boat streaks from zero to 34 mph in seconds, before automatically tapering off to 30 mph to keep the system from overheating as part of its thermal-management controls.

It’s hard to pick which is more seductive: the beautiful pinstriped-mahogany topsides or the guitar-thumping sound of the wood hull plying the water. The 220 kw motor is paired with two batteries, providing 126 kwh of total stored power. The 27 Special Sport tracked straight, turned crisply and exuded a Gatsby-esque refinement in stark contrast to the plastic boats scattered around Orlando’s Lake Conway. At $695,000, the model is $172,000 more than the same version fitted with a 400 hp Ilmor gas inboard. But combining advanced technology with this level of craftsmanship, without compromising performance, makes this a one-of-a-kind day boat.

X Shore Eelex 8000

Cruising Florida’s Intracoastal Waterway calls for a different design, which you find with X Shore ’s Eelex 8000. The Swedish-built, 26-foot center console has a minimalist open deck with a high bow and open stern, and the cockpit can be easily converted via modular furniture set on tracks. Function (plenty of storage) meets sustainability (the deck and gunwales are made of cork), with occasional flourishes such as the foredeck’s handhold, sculpted in the form of an electric eel.

The $329,000 Eelex, powered by an electric motor and two batteries with a total 126 kwh, offers a ride that’s electrifying in every sense. Like the aforementioned models, acceleration up the power curve—in this case, to 34.5 mph—is breathtakingly fast and satisfyingly quiet. Just the sound of wind and waves. After some time at the top end it self-corrects to 23 mph. Which makes sense, since the open design is more about sociability than speed. Range is a limiting factor, of course, but the boat can cover 90 nautical miles at 8 mph. Plus, there’s a get-home feature whenever battery life drops to 10 percent, delivering 10 nautical miles at a crawl.

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• Electric Yacht

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5 New Electric Boats for 2022

Electric options for boating are beginning to grow exponentially all over the world. Many boat companies and manufacturers are joining in on the importance of electric boating by building fully electric boats and hybrid gas/electric boats, as well as electric outboard motors . Using and buying these electric based boats and engines ensures you are not adding to the pollution in the world and on the water. Going electric helps preserve water and sea life from oil spills that may hap-pen in a gas-powered boat. These eco-friendly choices help sustain the earth and give boaters an environ-mentally friendly option.

Nautique Super Air GS22E

A 100% Electric Towboat. By: Timmy McNamee

Going electric provides an abundance of perks to your boating and water sports experience. Aside from not having to worry about fuel and maintenance costs, it’s unbelievably quiet.

Nautique partnered up with their sister company – Ingenity Electric, to create the world’s first fully electric towboat . The Super Air GS22E delivers to the industry an eco-friendly choice, to skip the fuel, cut back the maintenance, and enjoy watersports to the performance equivalent of the GS series line up. Based on their GS22 model, the Super Air GS22E utilizes clean energy with zero emissions, without the need to sacrifice any of the performance characteristics from the GS22. This eco-friendly version of the popular GS22 is sustainable, environmentally conscious, and performance driven.

With this wake boat, more push in the surf wave is provided from the additional weight of the batteries and ballast, and a smoother transition of the throttle between neutral makes driving and maneuvering silky smooth. The LINC Panoray Display provides a digital display of all battery vitals. Of course, with the Nautique Surf System; NSS and NCRS, your wakes and waves are programable to suit your preference. The GS22E is rated for an average of 2-3 hour running time and comes with an onboard battery charger to make charging effortless.

Standard on the GS22E is helm command, allowing you to control the entire LINC Panoray screen from the arm rest. Stereo, user pre-sets, speed control are all conveniently accessible beside the throttle. The cockpit of the GS22E follows that of the GS22, with spacious wrap around seating and a variety of rear seating options, equipped with self-supporting hinges to make access to storage easy. The transom of the GS line up is always a perk, with its wide walk through, and rear cut out seats. Port and Starboard storage are located on either side providing copious space for water sports equipment.

Combining the popular features of the GS series, and pairing it with its all new electric option. Nautique leads the industry with the cut-ting-edge launch of the GS22E.

SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 22′ Beam: 8′ 4″ Weight: 5,900 lbs Use Time: 2-3 hours Charge Time: : AC – 10 Hrs | DC – 4 Hrs Max Horsepower: n/a Passenger Capacity: 11 MSRP: $312,952 USD For more information: www.nautique.com

Princecraft Brio E 210-2S

Electric Beast. By Tim Banse

You’ve probably noticed the global shift towards electric power. The revamped Brio pontoon series, redesigned for 2022, follows that trend. Princecraft built some of the first electric pontoons on the market. For 2022 they’ve revamped their Brio, renaming it Brio 2.0. Boasting 17’ 19’, and 21’ models built around its electric propulsion system, its redesign improves balance by compensating for the placement of the motor and its batteries. Similarly, lighter weight construction allows its engines to convert more volts and amps into forward motion.

There are three power options: The Torqeedo Cruise 2.0, the Cruise 4, and the Cruise 10.0 Cruise 2.0 is the rough equivalent to a six-hp gas outboard, Cruise 4.0 to 10 hp, and the Cruise 10.0 to 20 hp. On the water, the difference between rigging with five hp and the more powerful 20 hp would be huge, not just in acceleration and top speed but also in close quarters handling. Know that depending on how aggressive the throttle setting is, the runtime is about 4 hours. Backing off to half throttle doubles range. The battery box is roto-cast (think rough as nails) and accommodates four Group 31 batteries or a single 48 Volt Torqeedo lithium battery. An optional battery bank or solar panel recharging extends the range intensely. The optional shore power fast charger is a must-have item.

Besides the nuances of electric propulsion, the platform measures 6-inches wider, delight-fully opening up entertainment and guest spaces. The helm features a roto-molded con-sole with a storage net, back-lighted switches, and a courtesy light. A new throttle package incorporates real-time data: Battery voltage, battery charge, speed, remaining charge at current speed, and input power consumption. This then is the fuel gauge of the future.

Options that breathe life into the pontoon are a concert package with a 160W Jensen sound system, LED docking lights, tilt steering, sliding driver seat, a trim system, a mooring cover, and a full camper enclosure.

SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 21’7” | 6.6 m Beam: 2.5 m | 8’1’ Weight: 728 kg | 1605 lb Use Time: 4 hours Charge Time: n/a Max Horsepower: n/a Passenger Capacity: 9 MRSP: $22,828 CAD For more information: www.princecraft.com

Rand Escape 30 Flagship

Scandinavia meets Electric. By Tim Banse

Scandinavians embrace electric cars. So it should come as no big surprise to learn they vigorously apply an electro-centric, sustainability mindset to boating. Enter Danish boatbuilder Rand and their Escape 30 Flagship. This electric, diesel, or gasoline-powered T-top mini yacht combines the luxurious features of a larger yacht bundled into a trailerable 30-footer.

The bow area locates twine-facing cushioned seats in the Vee with a forward-facing half bench set against the bulkhead. The accessible anchor locker and high topsides make laying anchor surefooted without fear of slipping overboard.

A hardtop, large dome windscreen stands watch over the expansive walk-around cock-pit, shielding passengers from the elements. In inclement weather, side covers close off the helm and passenger seating. The helm chair features a bolster and flip-over backrest. Kitchen and dining areas with a small fridge and wet bar also take shelter beneath the hardtop, where there’s plenty of space to store food for a day on the water and eat at a table. Below deck, the overnight cabin features a v-berth-style double bed and a minimalist bathroom.

Aft, an expansive sun lounge pulls double duty as a queen-size bed, suitable for watching the Milky Way Galaxy twinkle its way across the night sky. The full-beam-width swim platform accesses the sea via a yacht-style swim ladder.

Fitted out as an eBoat, a single electric motor flows torque to a MerCruiser Bravo Three lower unit. Lithium battery options range from 47 to 234 kWh. Sticker shock spoiler. Batteries are expensive. Propulsion options include 105/140 to 460 kWh/616 horsepower motors. The most powerful motor boasts a two-hour cruising speed at 23 knots. This field of choices leaves us with dual salient questions: How fast do you want to go? How much money do you want to spend?

SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 10 m/30 ft Beam: 2.8 m/9’ 3” Weight: 5300 lbs Use Time: 2 hours Charge Time: n/a Max Horsepower: 430 Passenger Capacity: 12 MSRP: $426,844 CAD For more information: www.randboats.com

Vision Marine Technologies Volt 180

Futuristic and Eco-Friendly. By Tim Banse

Quebec shipyard, Vision Marine Technologies , offers a tantalizing glimpse into the future of boating. Its 5.4 meters, Volt 180 open-electric-hull, carries up to 12 people while happily transiting protected bodies of water in silence, wave and emissions-free. Depending on how much electric power hangs off the transom, she can either dawdle or scorch the water.

Constructed of a fiberglass infusion, the beamy center console layout is eminently customizable to fulfill an individual’s visions of what life on the water ought to be. Forward of the helm station lies a horseshoe-shaped cockpit. Precisely which options and gizmos are chosen to populate the space will define the personality.

The captain sits on a combo pilot/passenger bench at the helm station. Immediately behind resides a sun pad. Necessary accouterments, things like a Bimini top, Permateek deck, under-water light, retractable ladder, fishing rod rack, and live wells are available. There is storage aplenty. The palette of aesthetic options include hull color, upholstery, and stitching. Generous freeboard pays big dividends in a dry ride.

In the beginning, we cited drastic variations in the choice of electric motors ranging from 3 kWh/10 HP to 180 hp. Base motor top speed is 5 knots. Want to go faster? Thanks to Volt 180’s plan-ing hull, you can. Figure on a top speed of 40 mph (35 knots). Depending on battery capacity and speed over the water estimated range is 70 miles or 3.5 hours. True to her electric motor lineage, the 180 provides a 90% reduction in energy and operation costs. Recharge batteries overnight at a marina or dock plugged into a 220 V power outlet. Underway, a screen on the center console allows dialing range, depending on speed and distance.

While the shipyard is located in Quebec, the Volt 180 is distributed worldwide, with sales offices in Portugal, the United Kingdom, and France.

SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 5.4 M | 17’08” Beam: 2.13 M | 7’0” Weight: 720 kg | 1600 lbs Use Time: 4 hours Charge Time: 6 hours Max Horsepower: 180 hp Passenger Capacity: 11 MSRP: $44,495 CAD For more information: www.visionmarinetechnologies.com

X Shore Eelex 8000

Minimalism meets Electric. By Tim Banse

Do you aspire to become one with nature, to embrace water’s natural beauty? Meet X Shore, the Swedish company known for fully electric yacht tenders and the assertion that they have viewed the future, and it is eco-green.

Hence, the launch of its Eelex 8000, combining the speed of an internal combustion engine with the muted voice of an electric motor. This 8-meter open-tender affectionately derives its name from the South American electric eel, the resemblance seen in the hull form’s streamlined body. Like an eel, Eelex runs on volts, in this case flowing electrons to a high-performance Austrian-made Brusa 225 KW/300 horsepower motor. Plugged into three-phase power, dual 60 kWh lithium-ion batteries recharge in five to eight hours. Or with superchargers in just one to two hours. In a pinch, the battery charges in any electrical outlet where you can plug in your cellphone.

A 24-inch Garmin multi-function touch-screen controls nearly everything onboard. Firmware connects via smartphone or Garmin MARQ wristwatch. Remote diagnostics are included. Eelex 8000 stops dead in its tracks within 10 seconds of detecting a watch wearer in the water or more than 10 meters away. Self-docking is one of the tantalizing updates waiting in the wings.

An open tender bareboat, Eelex changes personalities by swapping modules (fishing, social, watersport, and diving) that clip onto dual aluminum rails running from stem to stern. Owners can purchase multiple modules, easily swapped by two adults. Cork decks replace teak. Instead of fiberglass resin, the hull layup schedule includes PET (recycled plastic and optional Flax fiber. On the aesthetic side of the balance sheet, color options, Moss, Sandy, and Coffee, avoid disrupting the natural surroundings.

As simple as the sea is salt, the throttle is a rotary knob. As for performance, the top speed is 35 knots. The cruising speed is between 15 and 20 knots. The elapsed time for accelerating from dead in the water to 20 knots is 4.2 seconds. Range, running at 5 to 7 knots, is 100 nautical miles. President Patrick Hardy of BCI Marine is actively expanding the availability of X-Shore across Canada.

SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 8.0 m | 26.2 ft Beam: 2.5 m | 8.2 ft Weight: 2600 kg | 9840 lb Use Time: 2 hours Charge Time: 6 hours on 32A 24VDC Max Horsepower: n/a Passenger Capacity: n/a MSRP: $356,000 CAD For more information: www.xshore.com

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Electric Boat: The Latest Technology & Best Solutions in 2023

The era of the electric boat is already here.

• The electric boat market was valued at $5.02 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow to $16.64 billion in 2031, at a CAGR of 12.9%, according to the  industry report .
• More and more lakes are prohibiting gas motors with “ELECTRIC BOAT MOTOR ONLY”, and  Amsterdam  takes a further step to ban petrol and diesel-powered boats by 2025.
• Electric boat companies are expanding their product lines to higher horsepower offerings and more and more combustion motor manufacturers are developing electric boat motor business.

Believe it or not, the electric boat age is arriving sooner than you may think.

Many of you might concern about (or hear complaints about) the electric boat engine in terms of its range, power, weight, and price, which seem to be real worries.

The fact is whether the electric boat is a good option totally depends on your specific applications and needs, and the electric boat has already been a solid (if not the best) option for a lot of boating situations.

The electric boat industry is developing fast to cover more and more boating applications

Curious to learn more about electric boating?

Stay with us for a few minutes to check out the latest technologies in electric boats, their performances, cost, and the best affordable options available to convert your electric boat.

Table of content:

• Electric Boat: Future or Reality?

Top 5 Benefits of Electric Boats

Electric boat solutions: 3 options.

• Boat with Electric Motor Recommendations

Final Thoughts

Electric Boat: Future or Reality

Are there any realistic electric boats yet? Is the electric boat the future?

The simple answer is YES, with new technologies on batteries and motors. And that’s especially true for smaller boats – it’s also budget-wise ( Check out why ).

The fact is that electric boats are tackling a lot more challenges than electric cars. It’s easy to understand that extra weight means extra momentum for cars, but for boats, it’s pure drag. That means the energy to push a car at 60 mph can only probably push a boat at 30 mph.

However, just like trolling motors have now become a standard for the fishing community to provide a quiet trolling experience, the higher power electric motor for larger boats is also possible today.

The most critical thing is to make sure the electric boat options can satisfy your requirements within your budget. The best way to answer the question is to check what the electric boat technology can offer today so you can make your own decision.

It’s safe to say that you can find an electric boat solution for almost all your boating applications today, especially for leisure boating requirements.

A surprising fact is that the power range for the electric boat motor can go  up to 460 kW , equivalent to 600 HP. That’s tremendous power for electric boats, allowing you to reach a maximum speed of 50 knots on a 30ft boat and cruise at an extensive range.

While the monstrous 600 HP electric boat engine is enticing, it’s not for everyone due to the price, availability, and also the market demands.

More common and readily available high-power electric boats go at a power range of about  100 kW . For example, the  ePropulsion H-100 electric inboard motor  provides 140 HP equivalent power, suitable for larger sailing boats and motor vessels between 60 to 100’ (18-30m) with a full displacement of up to 200 tons.

You may also find some smaller electric boats equipped with electric motors  below 10 HP , such as the  9.9 HP Navy 6.0  and  6 HP Navy 3.0 . This setup is getting very popular as it’s affordable and provides so many advantages over combustion alternatives.

The range of electric boats can be a huge concern for many boaters. No one wants to run out of juice in the middle of the water.

The fact is that the range of electric boats varies among different applications, and it depends on a lot of factors, including the battery capacity, hull types, and sailing speed.

The range of electric boats has been greatly extended due to the modern battery and motor technologies.

According to the statistics, the most powerful electric boat today can provide you with about  50 nautical miles in planning speed  and  over 200 nautical miles in cruising speed , which can already cover most of your boating needs.

So if you plan to go electric, you can always find a solution.

If you are looking for a pontoon electric boat or electric solutions to outfit your dinghies or any other leisure boats or smaller vessels, you will have many affordable options that provide you with decent speed and range, including the following:

*Data collected on a 12-foot aluminum boat with one person onboard in calm water conditions.

As you may have noticed, electric boats can have extended range and runtime if you adjust them to lower speed settings. That’s to say, you can go fishing all day long at trolling speed.

Charging is easy with electric boats, given that the most marina’s offer shore power which can be used to charge your electric boat on a standard 16a socket.  Some lightweight electric motors, including the  3 HP Spirit 1.0 Evo , feature an integrated lightweight battery that allows you to remove it easily and take it home for quick charge.

Generally speaking, you can get your electric boat charged overnight, and some electric motor batteries support fast charging and can be fully charged within a few hours.

*Data is tested with fast charger which requires a separate purchase. **Data is collected using three chargers in parallel connection.

Besides that, electric boats usually support various charging options, including solar panels and wind turbines. If you are a sailboat owner, you may also enjoy the convenience of hydrogeneration that allows the batteries to get charged from wind and water.

Further Reading :  Hydrogeneration: The Importance of Hydro Electric Power & How It Works

If your were looking at repowering a 30ft sailing boat with electric, the weight difference is very mimium compared to the orginal motor and fuel tank. It can often mean you can get the weight position in a more central placement in the vessel.

Another good news is that the heavy and less efficient lead-acid battery is no longer the only or preferred choice for building an electric boat.

With the advances in battery technology, you now have better options to make the full electric boat solution work for you. 

Currently, the lithium battery (LiFePO4 battery, to be more specific) provides you the best answer to build electric boats, thanks to the following benefits compared with the traditional lead acid batteries:

• Lightweight:  70% less  weight 
• High efficiency:  50% more  useable capacity
• Compact: Takes  50% less  space
• Long lifespan: Lasts  4 to 5 times  longer
• Competitive price: Unit price is as low as  $0.5 per watt-hour
• Safe:  Zero  leak and fire risk
• Easy to maintain:  No maintenance  is required

So what’s the weight exactly? Let’s take the ePropulsion E-Series battery as an easy example.

Modern batteries are lighter-weight and cost-effective with a long lifespan and minimal maintenance, making electric boats a more viable option than ever.

Further Reading :  All You Need to Know About Lithium Iron Phosphate Batteries (LiFePO4)

The price is a big factor to consider for the electric boat conversion, and this includes the price for the motor and the batteries.

It’s worth mentioning that the modern LiFePO4 battery is not only efficient but also cost-effective, thanks to its greatly increased usable capacity. For example, the  E-Series battery  only costs about  $0.5 per watt-hour , making it affordable for leisure and commercial uses.

Although the price for electric boats has dropped over the years as the technology improves and more competitors come into the market, you will still find the initial cost of electric boats can be higher than their combustion counterparts.

However, if you consider the cost in the long run, you might come to a different conclusion. That’s due to the cost savings of electric boats in fuel bills and lifetime maintenance.

You will eventually find electric boats cheaper after a few years of use. Here is a chart that compares the cost of electric boat motors and combustion motors in the same power range:

Besides that, you will gain a lot of benefits if you go with the higher initial payment method.

If the current electric boat technology works for you, you can unlock tons of benefits from it. In fact, some are using the electric boat motors as a second or kicker motor to serve part of their boating needs, such as getting on and off a mooring or in and out of the marina.

Electric boats provide a premium boating experience you can never imagine with the petrol and diesel rivals. Let’s check out what you can expect from electric boats.

• Quiet:  The electric boats are virtually silent. Perfect for not spooking fish when you are fishing.
• Clean:  There isno messy fuel or oil leaks with electric boats, and therefore no greasy stains on your hands, car trunk, or boat.
• Low maintenance:  Significantly lower maintenance required than combustion engines. (Click to learn more about the  electric boat maintenance )
• Eco-Friendly:  It’s exhaust free and can be recharged with hydrogeneration, wind turbine and solar panel.
• Future-Proof:  The electric boats enable boaters to access waters where combustion engines are banned.
• Easy to use.  Forget about the pull-starting and warming up the engine. Just press the button and twist the throttle, and you are on your way.

Further Reading :  Comprehensive Guide About Electric Motors

So how to make an electric boat? If you are interested in building a fully electric boat, you will have three options basically:

#1. Electric Boat Outboard Motors

If you are looking for a more affordable electric boat solution or you own a boat already, the electric outboard motors are better options for you. They allow you to enjoy all the benefits of electric boats with much higher flexibility and less cost.

With a power range of up to 50 kW, this solution is perfect for tenders, dinghies, daysailers, small motorboats and sailboats. All you need to do is to find a reliable electric boat company and install the motor to your boat in easy steps. 

Here is a video that shows you how to mount the ePropulsion outboard motor and convert your existing boat to an electric boat:

With some lightweight small electric boat motors, including  the Spirit 1.0 Evo , you can easily remove and pack it into the accompanying travel bags for easy transportation. That way, you don’t need to worry about the outboard motor theft.

#2. Electric Boat Inboard Motors

The inboard motor is hidden within the boat and it’s a more efficient solution for larger vessels with the power range going up to 140 kW. That being said, you can use multiple motors to make higher power and range as needed.

If you still don’t have a clear idea about the power requirements, a 100 kW inboard motor can be used on large sailing boats and motor vessels between 60 to 100’.

Compared with its diesel counterpart, the electric boat with inboard motors delivers high performance with less noise, fewer vibrations and zero exhaust fumes. Besides that, it’s about two-thirds lighter and 50% smaller, providing installation flexibility and maximizing payload and passenger space.

ePropulsion offers a OEM service to all boat builders who may be intrested in off the shelf or custom built solutions.

#3. Electric Boat

There are manufacturers selling electric boats directly ranging up to about 600 HP. You get all electric systems out of the box, including the boat itself, electric motors, and a control system.

Essentially, this electric boat solution provides you an ideal combination of boat and electric motors so you don’t need to worry about the motor and battery selection, installation, and the possible compatibility issues.

If you go with this solution, you will also get a boat designed and optimized for electric propulsion, which can bring better performances.

Alternatives : There are also hybrid systems that usually combine an inboard diesel generator and a separate electric boat engine, so you can enjoy the benefits of both worlds. It’s advised to  consult an expert  to start your customized hybrid electric boat solutions.

Electric Boat Motor Recommendations

Are you considering converting your boat to an electric boat? Check out the below recommended electric outboard and inboard options to get started quickly.

#1. Spirit 1.0 Evo Electric Outboard Motor

If you want an electric dinghy, fishing boat, sailboat, or tender, the 3 HP Spirit 1.0 Evo is your best choice that provides electric propulsion with easy operation. It’s nimble, lightweight, and clean power.

Featuring a 1276Wh large integrated lithium battery, this small electric boat motor is designed for portability and longer range than its competitors in the same power range. 

• With the travel bag and lightweight design ( 11.3 kg  for the motor and  8.7 kg  for the battery), the electric motor is easy to transport and perfect for any trip.
• With one charge, you can go  22 miles at 4.5 mph  on a 12-foot aluminum boat (one person onboard) or go fishing all day long at trolling speed.

Spirit 1.0 Series electric boat engine is by far the only electric outboard under 5HP on the market that allows remote helm steering. If you want remote control, don’t miss the Spirit model.

A bonus point for sailboat owners is that, besides solar charging, this electric boat motor also features hydrogeneration function that allows you to charge the batteries while sailing.

#2. Navy 6.0 Evo Electric Outboard Motor

If you want to build electric pontoon boats, aluminum fishing boats, dinghies, daysailers and cruising sailboats, the 9.9 HP Navy 6.0 Evo is your best choice that provides you quiet and maintenance-free boating experience.

To make the electric boat conversion easy for you, ePropulsion offers three highly efficient battery options (require separate purchase) to match the electric boat engine:

• LiFePO4 batteries with three different capacities: 2048 Wh, 4096 Wh, and 8060 Wh
• Competitive pricing with unit price being as low as $0.5 per watt-hour
• High energy density with 70% less weight and space than lead-acid alternatives
• Long life cycles: 3000 life cycles at 80% depth of discharge

According to our test, you can go 40 miles with Navy 6.0 electric boat engine or go over 70 miles at trolling speed with a single charge (Tested on a 12-foot aluminum boat with one person onboard and one E175 battery).

#3. H-100 Electric Boat Inboard Motor

If you want a powerful and efficient electric boat engine, this 100 kW inboard motor is best for you, providing impressive 96% motor efficiency. It’s engineered for larger sailing boats and motor vessels between 60 to 100’ (18-30m) with a full displacement up to 200 tons.

You can also extend the range and power by adding more motors, controllers, and batteries to the electric propulsion system, thanks to its modular design. It can be totally customized to fit your needs.

With the boating IoT system, you can also remotely monitor the status of your electric boats in real-time, including the speed, power, track, mileage, safety alarm, etc. What makes it even more appealing is that all functions can be customized to your requirements.

The modular design of this motor allows you to build any electric boat tailored to your specific needs. If you want to explore more opportunities for your build, you can chat with an expert by  leaving us a message  or commenting below directly.

The electric boat is nothing futuristic. Electric power has already been preferred propulsion for smaller boats, including inflatables, dinghies, aluminum fishing boats, sailboats, tenders, etc. With the advances in battery and motor technology and the development of waterside fast chargers, electric boats will see faster growth in the coming years. It’s high time to switch to the electric boat to make it future-proof and enjoy the benefits ahead of time.

Have no idea which solution is best for you or which electric boat company you should trust? Leave a comment and we will help you find an ideal electric boat solution.

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To really work for sailboats, the Navy range should be available in ultra-long shaft. As is, the Navy 6.0 is only available in short (20″) and long (25″) shaft. Meanwhile most sailboats using outboards for propulsion uses 30″ shafts.

Thank you for your valuable advice, we will always be committed to optimize our product to make it more suitable for customers and market’s requirement, thanks!

Have you consulted with OC Tenders to create location for the E80 x2 under the rub rails. This would give some speed and make the Navy 6.0 a good fit while still creating balance for the boat.

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Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

Electric outboard motor: we test 13 options

• Theo Stocker
• July 25, 2023

An electric outboard motor is now a viable option for dinghy propulsion. Emrhys Barrell puts the latest outboards and trolling motors to the test

The electric outboard motor has been around for many years, but they have either been too low powered or their lead acid batteries have made them too heavy to lift in and out of a small tender, so petrol outboards have remained the engine of choice.

The development of lightweight lithium batteries has changed all this, making an electric outboard motor a practical alternative to petrol – and making all electric yachts a real possibility too.

With this in mind, we tested 12 models whose all-up weight, or the weight of their individual components, did not exceed the 14-17kg of a 2.5hp petrol outboard.

See how we tested the electric outboards at the end of this article.

Best electric outboard motor

Specifications Outboard weight:   12kg Overall weight with outboard and bracket: 14.5kg Battery capacity: 1085Wh Top speed: 5kts Thrust: 30kg / 66lbs

Designed along the lines of a dinghy rudder, this Remigo outboard is incredibly easy and intuitive to use. No external cables or anything to be snagged, it clips onto a bracket pre-mounted to your tender or dinghy, in a similar way that you’d attach a  dinghy rudder.

Flip down the handle, attach the magnetic kill cord and you’re good to go.

On test this outboard gave as much thrust as the ePropulsion below but out performed it in terms of maneuverability. The Remigo can be switched from forward to reverse thrust at the touch of a button.

We like the Remigo for it’s sleek simplicity. If you want a clean smart easy to carry outboard to take you from your mooring to shore or quietly meander from your anchorage to shore then this is definitely worth considering.

We especially liked the rudder effect of this outboard giving us steerage even we had turn the power completely off to coast in alongside our pontoon.

Read Fox Morgan’s review of this outboard – Remigo One Electric Outboard review

Reasons to buy

very easy to stow, innovative rudder design, lightweight, built in battery, easy to mount and dismount

Reasons to avoid

No multiple battery swap options like more conventional electric outboards

Find a dealer at Silent Yachting

Photo: Paul Wyeth

ePropolsion Spirit 1.0 EVO

Yachting Monthly’s best buy

Specifications Motor weight:   10.5kg Battery weight: 9kg Battery capacity: 1276Wh Top speed RIB: 4.5mph Top speed skiff: 6.0mph Thrust: 31kg/68lbs

The Chinese firm ePropulsion has been developing its electric outboard motor range and lithium batteries for some time. We tested the Spirit 1.0 Plus and Evo, both 1kW motors with integral batteries.

Clearly ePropulsion was influenced by Torqeedo, but there are some important differences. From the outset ePropulsion went for a direct drive motor, being quieter and avoiding gearbox problems.

The battery has a greater capacity than the original Torqeedo, and is still 30% higher than the latest version. It also floats – useful if you should drop it overboard.

Fitting the battery is a two-handed job, with the carrying handle being at the back, and latch lock at the front, which requires leaning over the transom to install it. You also cannot see the locating slots underneath, which isn’t quite so easy in a bobbing inflatable. The power cable socket is protected by a rubber cap.

You have a display, but it only shows power being consumed, voltage, and remaining runtime, which means it has larger figures, easier to read on a sunny day, but it lacks GPS speed or range.

It has the same trim settings as the Torqeedo, with a similar fiddly retaining split ring. It also has a magnetic kill cord. Three shaft lengths are available, catering for transom heights up to 61cm. The shaft is streamlined but rotates through 360º for maximum manoeuvrability and reverse.

High battery capacity Quiet 360º rotation

Limited display options

Buy it now from epropulsion

Yachting Monthly’s best in class

Specifications Motor weight:   10.5kg Battery weight: 9kg Battery capacity: 1276Wh Top speed RIB: 4.5mph Top speed skiff: 6.0mph Thrust: 68lbs Regeneration: 4 knots – 40W / 10 knots – 300W

The 1.0 EVO has the same dimensions and performance as the Spirit, but it has the options of a removable tiller, plus remote controls and steering, but the real innovation is that it offers regenerative charging while you are sailing, putting 40W at 4 knots, and 300W at 10 knots back into the battery.

You can even have a wristband remote for steering and throttle.

The ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 EVO is undeniably more expensive than it’s little sister without the regenerative charging and the cost difference is significant. If you are likely to be doing a lot of sailing and using your electric motor from ship-to-shore in relatively remote locations then the regeneration will probably be worth it. For most, though the price differential is probably a little too steep.

Regenerative charging Removable tille Remote controls

Relatively expensive

Torqeedo 1103 and Torqeedo 603

Torqeedo 603 specifications Motor weight:  11kg Battery weight:  4.2kg (floats) Battery capacity: 500Wh Top speed RIB: 4.0 mph Top speed skiff: Not tested Thrust: 44lbs

Torqeedo 1103 specifications Motor weight:  11kg Battery weight:  6kg Battery capacity: 915Wh Top speed RIB: 4.4mph Top speed skiff: 6.0mph Thrust: 68lbs

Torqeedo was the first company to commercially produce an outboard with an integral lithium battery in 2005. The earliest motors used a high-revving geared motor, which produced a characteristic whine. Following the launch of its new larger battery, Torqeedo changed to direct drive at about the same time that ePropulsion arrived on the scene.

The 1103 is 1.1kW and has a removable battery and tiller/throttle. The battery locates in slots in the powerhead and can be dropped in one-handed, with the slots clearly visible from above, which is helpful in a rocking dinghy. It then hinges back and locks in place with a separate plastic pin. The tiller locates in similar slots.

The two are then connected to the motor by a power cable and a data cable, but the latter has an 8mm plug, with five tiny pins that have to be carefully lined up, then secured with a threaded plastic collar. Neither of the sockets have caps to prevent debris or water getting into them when the cables are not connected.

The display on the tiller shows four lines of data at the same time, which makes them small to read (a phone app can be used for a large display). They include volts, battery capacity, range at a given speed, speed in kts, mph or km/h, and power consumption in watts. A magnetic kill-cord cuts the power circuits if you fall overboard.

The motor has four trim positions to allow for angled transoms, but the split ring securing the locking pin is very stiff and fiddly, especially when you have to adjust it hanging over the transom. A side-mounted lever allows the motor to be tilted horizontally. In normal use a catch prevents the motor kicking up in reverse, but this can be released with another side-mounted lever if you are in shallow water.

Long and short shaft versions are available, with the height of the transom to the top of the prop on the long shaft being 62cm. Clamps screws and fittings are stainless steel, making it suitable for salt water use, but an anode is an extra. It has forward and reverse but not 360º rotation.

Established brand with relatively long history Removable battery and tiller Lots of display options

Display hard to read

Buy the Torqeedo 603 now from Torqeedo Buy the Torqeedo 1103 now from Torqeedo

Best Trolling motors

Haswing Ultima 3

Specifications Motor weight: 11kg Battery weight: 5kg Battery capacity: 600Wh Top speed: RIB 4.0mph Top speed skiff: Not tested Thrust: 51lbs

Haswing is a new name to us, but this Chinese manufacturer now has an extensive range of motors, several of which we were able to bring along to our test.

The Ultima 3 has an integral Lithium battery and an output of 1,000W, with the ‘3’ in its name indicating the 3hp petrol outboard its makers claim it is equivalent to. The battery is 600Wh.

The battery was the easiest of all in our test to fit and remove, just sliding down a set of grooves, with contacts in the bottom removing the need for any linking cables or wires, and an easy one-handed operation.

The unit is well engineered, with stainless steel used throughout plus an anode as standard, making this suitable for use in salt water, and a spare anode and shear pin. The tiller/throttle hinges up and down for easy operation and storage. It has a streamlined aluminium leg, but rotates 360º.

A magnetic kill cord is a useful safety feature, and there are 5 LEDs showing battery capacity remaining, but this is the only instrumentation, so there is no way of gauging how much power you are using. It also meant that with no exposed power cables, we could not measure intermediate power settings.

Easy to fit battery Anode as standard for salt water usage High end materials

Limited instrumentation

Buy it now from Amazon

Motorguide Varimax 40

Specifications Motor weight:  9.1kg Battery (Sterling 60Ah) – 8kg Battery capacity: 780Wh Top speed RIB: 3.2mph Top speed skiff: 4.0mph Thrust: 28lbs

Another trolling motor, this has a claimed 40lb thrust and a variable speed electronic control. The throttle pulls forward for ahead, and pushes back for reverse then twists in the same direction for speed. A clever feature once you get used to it. Ten LEDs show the battery state.

The sliding shaft gives transom heights up to 65cm transom to prop, and 360º rotation. It also quickly tilts through 90º, with 5 positions, for shallow or weedy water.

Clamp screws and fittings are mild steel, meaning you should wash it off with freshwater after using it in the sea.

Clever throttle control Variable transom heights accomodated

Quite basic in functionality

Haswing Osapian 55

Yachting Monthly’s best budget buy

Specifications Motor weight:  9kg Battery weight:  (Sterling 60Ah) 8kg Battery capacity: 780Wh Top speed RIB: 3.3mph Top speed skiff: 4.4mph Thrust: 35lbs

This is another trolling motor with a claimed 55lb thrust, but with five forward speeds and three reverse on a twist-grip throttle. Again, it is a well-engineered motor, with all fittings and clamp screws made of stainless steel, an anode behind the prop and a spare in the box.

Five LEDs show the battery state. The sliding shaft gives transom heights up to 62cm, and 10 tilt positions.

As with all click-speed throttles you have double the power at Setting 5 compared to Setting 4, and very poor range figures at intermediate speeds compared to motors with electronic throttles.

However it is an excellent value-for- money option for sailors looking for ways to power their tender for short trip

Well engineered Value for money

Poor range at medium speeds

Motorguide SW82

Specifications Motor weight: 13kg Battery weight: 16kg Battery capacity: 1,560Wh Top speed RIB: 4.0mph Top speed skiff: 5.5mph

Motorguide is a well-established US company that is part of the Mercury/Mariner group. The most powerful of the transom mount range, the 82 has a claimed thrust of 82lbs, and is a 24V unit requiring two 12V batteries in series.

It is also designed for saltwater use, with stainless steel clamp screws and fittings, and a large anode on the shaft. It has an extra long shaft, giving up to 93cm transom height to the prop, 360º rotation, and seven tilt positions There are no battery LEDs. An on/off switch under the control head is the nearest it gets to a kill switch.

Well known company Powerful Anode for salt water

No battery LEDs

Haswing Protruar 1

Specifications Motor weight: 9kg Battery weight: 8kg Battery capacity: 780Wh Top speed RIB: 3.4mph Top speed skiff: 4.5mph Thrust: 40lbs

Another Haswing requiring a separate 12V battery, this has a variable speed electronic throttle, and similar features to the Protruar 5, except no kill cord. It claims to be equivalent to a 1hp petrol motor, but in practice delivered 600W.

The sliding shaft only allows transom heights up to 40cm, but a longer shaft version is available. It has 10 tilt positions and 360º rotation.

Another well engineered unit, with stainless steel used throughout plus an anode as standard, and a spare anode and shear pin. The tiller/throttle hinges up and down for easy operation and storage.

Anode for salt water use 360º rotation

No kill chord Limited transom height range

Haswing Protruar 5

Specifications Motor weight: 14kg Battery weight: 16kg Battery capacity: 1,560Wh Top speed RIB: Not tested Top speed skiff: 6.1mph Thrust: 108lbs

Another Haswing, the Protruar 5 is the most powerful model we tested. The unit is extremely well engineered, with stainless steel used throughout for the clamp screws and fittings, plus an anode as standard, making this suitable for use in salt water. A nice touch is the spare anode and shear pin in the kit. The tiller/throttle hinges up and down for easy operation and storage.

Its 5 designation indicates its makers think it is equivalent to a 5hp petrol motor, but in reality it delivers around 2.5kW at 24V so requires two separate batteries. It has a variable electronic throttle, three battery state LEDS and a magnetic kill cord.

The shaft slides up and down, giving a maximum transom height of 62cm and 360º rotation. Ten tilt positions are quickly engaged by a squeeze lever.

The thrust was the highest of the test, making it suitable for heavy boats, but the fine pitch prop significantly reduced its efficiency at speed.

Powerful model Anode for salt water use Battery LEDs and kill chord

Needs two batteries for full power

Motorguide R3 45

Specifications Motor weight:   9.5kg Battery weight: (Sterling 60Ah) 8kg Battery capacity: 780Wh Top speed RIB: not tested Top speed skiff: 4.1mph

This trolling motor has a claimed thrust of 45lbs and five forward speeds. The sliding shaft gives transom heights up to 65cm and 360º rotation, with seven tilt positions. Clamp screws and fittings are mild steel, so should be washed after saltwater use.

The click-speed throttle gives non-linear power gaps, with Speed Setting 5 being double the power of Setting 4. This throttle arrangement results in poor range figures at medium speeds compared to motors with electronic throttles, but it keeps the price down.

360º rotation Plenty of transom height range

Minn Kota Endura Max 55

Specifications Motor weight: 9.5kg Battery weight: (Sterling 60Ah) 8kg Battery capacity: 780Wh Top speed skiff: 4.6mph

Minn Kota is one of the oldest makers of trolling motors. The Max 55 has a claimed 55lb thrust, with a variable speed electronic twist-grip throttle.

Clamp screws and fittings are mild steel, making it best suited for freshwater, though you can use it in the sea if you wash it off afterwards.

It has a fine pitch prop like all trolling motors, which gives a good static thrust, but efficiency, and hence range, falls off at higher speeds, though the electronic Maximiser throttle helps to offset this.

Electronic maximiser throttle helps offset range issues

Big range drop off at high speeds Needs washing after salt water usage

Buy it now from MinnKota

How we tested the electric outboard motors

We took a selection of electric outboard motor units available on the market, and tested them in two situations, firstly on a Frib 275 folding RIB on the Lymington River to reproduce the situation of getting out to your boat in the tender. We then put them on a 4m skiff on the Thames, to see how they perform at higher speeds on a boat with a smoother underwater form and longer waterline on sheltered waters.

Speed: We measured speed using a handheld GPS, and electricity consumed using a clamp ammeter or the motor’s inbuilt power display. We converted these to the range you would achieve, either for a given power, or the full power of the motor’s battery.

Thrust: We measured static thrust using a spring balance. This is a somewhat crude test, as it measures the pulling power of a motor in a static boat, and therefore doesn’t allow the propeller pitch to work at its designed speed.

Function: We checked the stated weights of each of the motors and made a qualitative survey of their main features when used as a dinghy outboard.

We tested the trolling motors with a 60Ah lithium battery from Sterling Power, which cost £360, though you can use a heavier lead acid battery costing around £120 for a good quality AGM or gel. Don’t bother with leisure batteries, which will fail after 4 to 5 trips. You will need a good quality Lithium charger, which will add on £100 or more.

We haven’t included charging in this test, as this is dependent on the charger you are using, whether you are charging from 240V or 12V on board, and whether the power source is mains, a generator, alternator or solar. It’s worth noting that you will rarely be recharging from flat, and will rather be aiming to top up batteries after each use.

Trolling motor or electric outboard motor?

The options today are trolling motors with separate batteries – so called because they were mainly used as auxiliary slow-speed power for anglers, and integral-battery motors built for dinghy propulsion. These are the options a sailor will be looking at when thinking about changing to an electric outboard.

Trolling motors are still popular for low-speed applications, as they are simple and cheap, but they do need a separate 12V battery.

The integral battery motors are sophisticated units designed to give you more speed and greater range for a given power in a small boat, though for any 3-4m boat, the hull speed will limit how fast you can realistically go with any motor unless you start planing.

An electric outboard motor with an integral battery will often include displays showing speed, range at a given speed, and percentage of battery capacity remaining, but these features come with a higher price tag.

The trolling motors and integral battery models in our test were similar in weight and both come in at around the same total weight as a 2.5hp petrol engine.

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Best electric outboard motors: 11 top options for zero-emissions propulsion

• Electric boats
• Top stories

Electric outboard motors seem to be springing up all over the place right now. We round up 11 of the best electric outboards on the market…

Electric outboard motors are nothing new, after all the humble electric trolling motor has been around for decades, but in the past couple of years a new breed of more powerful units has emerged.

Capable of powering everything from a tender to a 50-knot sportsboat, this new generation of electric outboard motors will surely play a big role in the growing trend towards all- electric boats .

We’ve rounded up 11 of the best options available on the market right now to help you track down the right one for cutting down your boat’s carbon footprint.

Compact electric outboard motors for your tender

Torqeedo 603 Travel

Weight: 15.5kg Power: 600W / 0.8hp Battery: 500Wh Range: 11nm Price: £1,499

Torqeedo has been making electric outboard motors for quite a while now, and their latest offering slots into the travel range of electric outboards between the 503 (1.5hp) and the 1103C (3hp).

All the usual Torqeedo refinements are present and correct. IP67 rated as totally waterproof, the 603 Travel has a magnetic kill cord and an onboard computer providing instant readouts of operating range at current RPM and battery-charge status displayed on the tiller arm.

You can link it to an Apple or Android app and gain even more information including a map-based range indicator.

Read more about the Torqeedo 603 Travel

Mercury Avator 7.5e

Weight: 27.1kg Power: 750W / 1hp Battery: 1kWh Range: 34nm Price: $1,500

Announced in early 2022 and launched less than a year later, the Mercury Avator 7.5e is the first electric unit from the world’s biggest builder of outboard engines .

The whole top plate hinges up to reveal the battery, which can be quickly removed from your electric boat or replaced for convenient charging.

It’s by no means the lightest electric outboard motor on the market, but its claimed range at 25% throttle is very impressive – we look forward to putting one to the test.

Not resting on its laurels, Mercury launched the Avator 20e and 35e this summer as well. These units are no bigger than the 7.5e, but need wiring in to an on-board battery bank.

Read more about the Mercury Avator 7.5e

Read more about the Mercury Avator 20e and 35e

Weight: 14.5kg (inc. bracket) Power: 1kW / 3hp Battery: 1,085 Wh Range: 14nm Price: £2,185

The idea behind the Remigo One electric outboard makes perfect sense; rather than mounting the battery on top of the shaft, like the engine on an old-school petrol outboard, the Slovenian company has integrated it into the shaft and shaped it like a rudder to minimise drag and maximise steering effect.

It is backed by a 2-year warranty and has a magnetic key/kill cord. There are some other neat ideas too. The rudder casing is waterproof to IP67 above the water and IP69 below the water so it will survive a dunking, and it’s held in place by a clamp mechanism that allows you to adjust the shaft length to suit your boat with the aid of an allen key.

The transom bracket is separate to the motor so you can leave the bracket attached to the boat and simply slot the motor on and off. The tiller also folds and locks parallel to the blade so you can use it as a perfectly balanced carry handle.

Watch our test drive video of the Remigo One electric outboard

The Kicker is exceptionally light and surprisingly powerful

Thrustme Kicker

Weight: 4.4kg Power: 1kW / 3hp Battery: 259kWh Range: 5nm Price: £1,250

If it’s light weight and value that you prioritise over cruising range, then this Norwegian option is hard to beat.

Launched in 2021, the Kicker boasts enough range and grunt to get one person from ship to shore and back again in calm conditions, as editor Hugo proved in a week-long test.

The only downside is that the battery isn’t removable, which can make charging a little more difficult.

Read more about the Thrustme Kicker

Weight: 15kg Power: 1kW / 3hp Battery: 740Wh Range: Up to 1hr Price: €2,850

A brand new option from France, the TEMO-1000 doesn’t look anything like a traditional outboard motor.

The design doesn’t have any rectangular box on top, just a rudder-shaped shaft with an electric motor at the bottom and a long slim battery that simply slides down into it, connecting automatically to your electric boat without having to plug wires into it.

The tiller arm does the same, meaning it disappears completely when not in use and yet it is never detached and therefore never mislaid.

Read more about the TEMO-1000

Haswing Ultima 3

Weight: 16kg Power: 1kW / 3hp Battery: 1.03kWh Range: 18nm Price: £1,570

A top-of-the-range option from trolling motor stalwarts Haswing, the Ultimate 3 is suitable for boats up to 7m long.

The brushless DC motor produces 3hp (claimed to be equivalent to a 4hp petrol outboard motor), and it’s available in short and long shaft versions as well as the standard length.

Not only is the detachable battery unusually light at 5kg (lightest in class, according to the manufacturer), it also connects to the engine in a single simple operation without the need for connecting cables or other fiddly parts – no bad thing when you’re bobbing about in a tender!

Read more about the Haswing Ultima 3

ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus

Weight: 19.3kg Power: 1kW / 3hp Battery: 1,276Wh Range: 22nm Price: £1,600

The original Spirit 1.0 has actually been in production for six years with over 10,000 units built. Featuring a 1,000W brushless motor, this electric outboard motor is claimed to be equivalent to a 3hp petrol engine, ideal for tender duties or small to medium sized dinghies.

This Plus version, launched in 2020, is the same weight, size and power – the big gain is where it’s needed most, run time. It has been achieved by upgrading the battery from 1,018Wh to 1,276Wh.

At the same time, the power cord has been upgraded for durability and reliability, and the voltage has been changed from 40.7V to 48V, making it compatible with an external 48V battery. The battery will even float if dropped overboard!

Read more about the ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus

Most powerful electric outboard motors for day boats

Yamaha Harmo

Weight: 55kg Power: 3.7kW / 9.9hp Battery: Sold  separately Range: Depends on battery Price: £TBC

Announced in 2022 and tested on a 12m Venmar water taxi, the Yamaha Harmo electric boat drivetrain may be a rather modestly powered 3.7kW motor, equivalent to a 9.9hp petrol engine, but it is being seen as a major statement of intent from the Japanese brand synonymous with big, powerful four-stroke outboards.

Intriguingly, the Harmo is neither an outboard engine nor a sterndrive but a new propulsion package that borrows ideas from both camps.

It is mounted on the transom just above the waterline much like a sterndrive leg, but in keeping with the outboard engine ethos it’s an entirely self-contained unit that includes the motor and steering mechanism.

Read more about the Yamaha Harmo electric rim drive

RAD Propulsion RAD40

Weight: 100kg Power: 40kW / 55hp Battery: 20-60kWh Range: 100nm Price: £28,000 (ex. battery)

The RAD40 drive from British start-up RAD Propulsion appears to be far more than just a conventional outboard leg with an electric motor bolted on top.

Every single element of it has been designed from the ground up to maximise the benefits of electric power. The result is a brand new drive system that is not only much cleaner, quieter and more efficient than a petrol outboard engine but also smaller, lighter, cheaper to maintain and even more manoeuvrable.

In its current 40kW guise (equivalent to around 55hp) it’s powerful enough to propel everything from a 25-knot planing RIB to a 10-knot displacement craft but with a larger 160hp RAD120 as well as a portable tiller steered RAD2 already in development, it’s clear that RAD Propulsion has its eyes set on a much wider market.

Read more about the RAD Propulsion RAD40 electric outboard

E-Motion 180E

Weight: 580kg Power: 110kW / 180hp Battery: 70kWh Range: 70nm Price: $78,990

Launched in 2021 by Canadian firm Vision Marine Technologies, the E-Motion 180E looks like a genuine alternative to the 150-200hp petrol outboard motors that power the vast majority of 18-25ft sportsboats and RIBs.

The outboard engine itself weighs around 180kg, compared to 216kg for a 200hp V6 Mercury Verado, but that relatively modest saving pales into comparison next to the 400kg weight of the 70kWh battery pack.

Admittedly, a fair chunk of that will be offset by the lack of fuel tank and starter batteries, but unlike a petrol boat, the battery pack’s weight stays constant whether full or close to empty.

Read more about the E-Motion 180E

The Evoy Storm looks, feels and goes like a well-matched petrol outboard engine

Weight: 350kg Power: 222kW / 300hp Battery: 2x 63kWh Range: 25nm Price: €144,700

Although currently still in development, the Evoy Storm is a working prototype that has already been fitted to a number of partner brands’ boats, including an Iguana amphibious craft and an Axopar 25 that we tested at last year’s Cannes Yachting Festival .

Despite a 450kg weight penalty over a fully fuelled petrol boat, and five passengers, we still recorded a top speed of over 50 knots – vastly quicker than any other electric boat we’ve tested and not far off the world speed record for a production electric boat of 57.7 knots (held by a Goldfish X9 powered by a 400hp Evoy inboard).

The anticipated price for this electric Axopar 25 is €185,000 (ex tax), which looks pretty good value given that the price of the motor alone is €74,900 plus another €69,800 for the batteries. Whether Axopar can maintain, or even reduce, that price once the Evoy Storm enters production in 2024 remains to be seen.

Read more about the Evoy Storm

Tip of the iceberg

If this seems like a lot of choice, there are even more options coming down the pipeline in 2024. MBY understands that several major outboard manufacturers are planning on entering the electric outboard market, so watch this space…

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10 Best Sailboat Brands (And Why)

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 20, 2023

‍ There's no denying that sailors are certainly a passionate bunch. We’re so passionate about our boats that we always try going for the best sailboats. To make it a lot easier for you, here are the best sailboat brands.

Owning a sailboat is an indulgence that many of us only dream about but very few ever have the privilege of sailing the seas in what they can actually call their own.

While there's nothing wrong with renting a sailboat, the honor of owning one is certain what many sailors dream of.

With a perfectly crafted sailboat as company, gliding through the water, waves, and wind brings some sort of unmatched comfort and peace.

Add this to the fact that sailing takes you far away from the daily hustles and bustles that we've become accustomed to in our daily lives and you'll see why the life of sailing is very appealing to the masses.

But without a proper sailboat, all this fun and the good life of sailing are thrown out of the window.

Contrary to the widespread opinion, owning a sailboat isn't beyond anyone's reach. It's something that we can all achieve. But before getting into that, it's important to know some of the best sailboat brands.

The best sailboat brands will make your life as a sailor a lot easier and more fun. The best sailboat brands have, for decades if not centuries, mastered the art of woodworking. They've dedicated their skills and immense amount of their time to designing and manufacturing nothing but the best quality of sailboats in the industry.

So if you've been looking for the best sailboat brands from all over the world, you've come to the right place. We'll discuss the best of the best, something that will give you a perfect getaway from your normal life.

Table of contents

‍ Must-Have Features for Your Sailboat

Before highlighting the best sailboat brands, it would be appropriate to jog your mind a little with some of the features that must be available in your sailboat.

Choosing a sailboat can sometimes be a matter of compromises. In other words, it's sometimes sensible to accept that a sailboat cannot have all the features that you desire.

As such, it's all about going with a sailboat that has the features that matter to you most.

For this reason, let's look at the most basic features that can make the difference in both safety and comfort while improving your sailing experience.

A Safe and Comfortable Sailing Cockpit

You'll most definitely be spending a huge amount of time in the cockpit. Whether you're keeping watch, trimming sails , helming, or just enjoying the scenery, there's no better place to do all these than from the cockpit. That being said, a good cockpit should have the following.

• Have a good depth for safety reasons and adequate drainage
• Should give you a quick and easy access to jammers, cleats, and other important parts of the winch system
• Should have a seat or seats that are about 35 cm high, 50 to 55 cm wide to provide ideal support
• The seats should be adjustable to offer maximum comfort and allow you to change your position

GPS Chartplotter

Use a GPS Chartplotter once and your sailing will never be the same without it. It not only allows you to map a course but is also a great way of ensuring that your sailboat exactly follows that course. It also gives you constant updates on ocean conditions, weather conditions , and potential hazards such as deadly currents and sandbars.

A GPS Chartplotter is also an important safety device that can help you in some very critical situations while out there on the water.

For instance, it has a man-overboard button that is essentially meant to allow you to receive coordinates of the exact location should someone fall off your boat.

Electric Winch System

This is an amazing addition to any sailboat. It allows you to sheet a jib even in high and strong winds with a simple press of a button. It also gives you the chance of trimming a mainsail easily while still carry out other essential tasks in the sailboat.

An electric winch system can be of great importance, especially if you're short on crew. This is because it can free up some crew members to carry other important tasks. In other words, it can make duties that would otherwise require more crew members a lot easier.

More importantly, an electric winch system can maintain safety even in the roughest of conditions, thereby preventing you and your crew from getting injured. In essence, an electric winch system will make your sailing a lot safer, less stressful, and more enjoyable.

Reverse Osmosis Watermaker

This is a very valuable accessory, especially if you're going on long sea voyages. You can spend days on end without drinking clean and safe water.

As the name suggests, you can use this accessory to turn seawater into purified drinking water. It uses the reverse osmosis method that's essential not only in removing bacteria and parasites from the water but also in turning the water into purified and safe drinking water.

Even though this device is pricey, it's a great way to mitigate the over-reliance on huge water tanks. All you have to do is to ensure that it's properly maintained and you'll have an endless streak of safe drinking water no matter where you are.

Wide and Clutter-free Deck

While the deck is often an overlooked feature of a sailboat, it can be the difference between a great sailing experience and a stressful one. In essence, the deck of a sailboat should be wide enough and clutter-free.

This is significant as it can enable you to quickly access different parts of your sailboat with hindrance or getting tangled. As you can see, this is particularly important in improving safety and reducing stress.

With that in mind, make sure that the deck is organized in such a way that you can have easy access to sails, masts, and winches.

You should, therefore, avoid sailboats with decks that are designed in such a way that you have to climb on top of the cabin just to access these features. Needless to say, this can be quite unstable and very dangerous especially when conditions are rough.

The Best Sailboat Brands and Why

1. hallberg-rassy.

Hallberg-Rassy is a Swedish yacht maker that's very well-known in the blue water cruising circles for making some of the highest quality and sturdiest sailboats. For many sailors, this is the number one sailboat brand as it offers absolute comfort, utmost safety, and good and easy handling.

This brand is not only synonymous with sturdy construction but you won't worry getting soaking wet while out there on the water. This is because it has a well-protected deck and cockpit, finished with nice woodwork, and has a powerful engine with a big tankage just to ensure that you can go on long voyages.

When designing its sailboats, this brand has made it a norm to add some features that stand out from the rest. For instance, the bowsprit is an integral feature that makes sailing a Hallberg-Rassy quite easy and much enjoyable. This is because it grants easy access to and from the deck. Its electric anchor winches facilitate smooth maneuvering. Even more, its large steering wheels makes it much easier to control the boat even in the roughest of conditions. In essence, this brand has features that provide good control and an extra sense of safety.

Although this brand has evolved over the years, you'll easily recognize it even from a distance. And why is this? A Hallberg-Rassy never goes out of style. This is a unique sailboat brand that has always stayed true to its principles and concept. No matter which part of the world you go, Hallberg-Rassy will remain the undisputed king of blue water cruising.

2. Nautor's Swan

For over 50 years, Nautor's Swan has endlessly raised the sailing levels by designing and manufacturing new sailboat models that not only push the boundaries but also meet that many requirements and demands of sailors across the world. Thanks to its wide range of seaworthy, timeless, elegant, and highly-performing sailboats, the Nautor's Swan remains one of the best if not the best sailboat makers in the world.

Based in Jakobstad, Finland, this brand has severally set the industry standard with its speedy and sleek models such as the Swan 48, Swan 65, Swan 98, Swan 78, and Swan 120. These models have one thing in common: they never compromise on safety. As a brand that puts safety first, it ensures that its models are made of foam-cored glass fiber and reinforced both with carbon-fiber and epoxy. In essence, Nautor's Swan is widely revered for its unmatched seafaring and safety records.

Additionally, Nautor's Swan models are incredibly responsive. You can easily tell this just by the feel of the wheel. This brand has models that will gracefully slice through the biggest of waves with ease. That's not all; the interior of these models that are very comfortable even when the going gets tough. This is, without a doubt, a brand that strives to create self-contained worlds with each model.

3. Beneteau

This is perhaps the most selling sailboat brand in the world. For over a century now, this brand has based its models in a combination of simplicity and performance. This is a brand that will serve you just right across all latitudes and in all circumstances. Whether you prefer the Oceanis Yacht 62 or the Figaro Beneteau 3, this brand will never let you down on all fronts.

This brand revolves around a simple concept of creating a link around the world. From the deck space to its design and light, this brand does everything possible not just to uniformly transform life at sea but also to open doors to new horizons in a very luxurious yet practical way. Its models are designed with clear deck plans, stable hulls, simplified maneuvering and interior materials and equipment that can be easily personalized.

Whether you're looking for a racing sailboat or something that's designed to explore and enjoy the world in the company of friends and family, Beneteau is a true combination of sensations and simplicity. This is a brand that brings to the seas fun, simplicity, smartness, toughness, safety, intuitiveness, as well as dazzling reinvention.

4. Amel Yachts

Based on the ethos of designing and manufacturing comfortable, robust, and easy-to-handle boats, this French brand has, for over five decades, offered sailors and other sailing enthusiasts the perfect opportunity to explore the seas with the utmost quality, comfort, and more importantly, safety.

Using 100% French know-how, this brand has brought to the sailing world some of the best boats such as the Santorini, the Mango, the Super Maramu, and the Maramu. We would be doing this brand total injustice if we said that they're distinctive. Truth be told, there's nothing comparable to an Amel model. Well Amel was and still is, the ultimate standard by which other sailboat models are measured.

From items such as electric winches and furling, to generators, Watermaker , and washing machine down to the simplest of items such as towels. Spare filters, bathrobes, deck brush, and a boat safe, the Amel is in reality with what the real life of a sailor is and should be.

Although some may say that Amel still has room for improvement in terms of specifications and personalization, it cannot be denied that the Amel is a serious brand that designs and manufactures complete boats. With this brand, you'll be guaranteed of a higher degree of reliability, safety, and an edge of fun while out there on the water.

5. Hinckley Yachts

Based in Maine, United States, Hinckley Yachts is a brand that has been building robust, luxury, and safe sailboats for more than 90 years now. In its sailboat class, you'll find several sailboats that have classic shapes, inner strength, dramatic lines, and features that are absolutely essential in dealing with the challenges of the North Atlantic.

This brand has been successful in integrating impeccable craftsmanship with new technologies to ensure that their models always stand out while articulating advanced sailing practices, timeless aesthetic, robust construction, and the utmost safety. Whether you choose the Bermuda 50, the Sou'wester 53 or any model for that matter, you'll never be short of advanced performance based on the best design and technology.

In terms of features, this brand provides sailboat models with modern performance hulls. These hulls are constructed with inner layers of carbon, outer layers of Kevlar, and are aligned with computer-designed load paths. Every feature is designed without compromising comfort.

To this end, this brand offers you a perfect combination of both fun and sail. This brand offers more than just sailing. Instead, it offers a unique sailing experience that's combined with the pure joys of sailing in the blue waters with an ease of ownership and maneuverability.

6. Oyster Yachts

If you've been looking for luxury more than anything else, Oyster Yachts provides you with numerous solutions. This British brand is widely known for manufacturing a wide range of luxury cruising sailing yachts. Its sailboats are among the finest in the world and are immensely capable of taking you to some of the far-flung places in the world without having to worry about high winds and hellish waves.

Whether you choose the iconic Oyster 565 or the immense Oyster 595 you never fall short of experiencing the new world like never before. These are models that will enable you to own your adventure, choose your destination, set your courses, pick your anchorage, and stay safe at all times. If you want to hold the wheel and pull the sail while feeling the tang of salt spray on your face, Oyster Yachts is the way to go.

This is, unquestionably, a brand that's meant for you if you want to explore the seas in comfort, luxury and utmost safety. From craftsmanship, sailboat design, to hull, deck, and keel configurations, everything is designed to allow you to circumnavigate the world in comfort, elegance, and style.

7. Tartan Yachts

Based in Fairport Harbor, Ohio, there's arguably no better to begin your sailing adventures than with a sailboat designed and manufactured by Tartan Yachts. With several award-winning designs and construction, this brand is widely known for providing easy handling, great performance, and an ultimately stable platform.

This brand always strives to deliver a unique and the best possible experience to every sailor. As a brand, Tartan fully understands that every sailor has his/her unique sailing needs. As such every component of their models is designed with engineering levels that guarantee optimum performance, excellent on-deck visibility, and luxurious interior.

From the Tartan 5300, the Tartan 4300, the Tartan 345 to the New 365 and the Fantail, this brand makes it a priority to ensure that its models are among the strongest, lightest, and more importantly, the safest in the sailing industry. In essence, this brand can be ideal if you appreciate performance. It has rewarding sailing features both in narrow water lines and wider passages. Add this to its easy handling and you'll have a top-notch performer in virtually every condition.

8. Catalina Yachts

As one of the most popular boat manufacturers in the world, this American brand is widely revered for building the sturdiest boats that can hold up perfectly well in real-world conditions. These are generally family-oriented boats that are intelligently designed to ensure that your entire family can have fun out there on the water.

Some of the models include the cruiser series such as the Catalina 315, the Catalina 385, the Catalina 425 while the sport series include the Catalina 12.5 Expo, the Catalina 16.5, and the Catalina 14.2 Expo. As the current winner of the "Boat of the Year" Cruising World, you'll rarely go wrong with a Catalina model.

It offers a wide range of sailboat sizes that suits your lifestyle. This brand makes it a priority to ensure that all their models are not only safe but offer the best ownership and sailing experience. If anything, this brand is widely known to have one of the most excellent resale values in the sailing industry.

9. Island Packet Yachts

From the IP 525, the IP 439 to the IP 379, the Island Packet Yachts is a brand that encourages its customers not to keep the world waiting. This brand is meant for sailors who want to explore the world in utmost comfort and safety.

The first thing you'll notice in an IP sailboat is its large aft deck. This is not only perfect for sunbathing but can also serve you well if you want an impromptu dinner with friends and family while out there on the water. The living space is also large enough to carry most of your belongings, which is an added advantage especially if you've been planning to spend longer periods in the seas.

With modern evolution and refinement, as well as proven features, this brand is known to offer sailors maximum comfort, luxury, and safety. You'll have better access to the cockpit, have enough space, and are excellently designed to provide superior seafaring and the best features to enable you to spend extended periods when cruising.

10. Sparkman & Stephens

For more than 90 years, Sparkman & Stephens has been at the forefront of the belief that sailboat excellence goes beyond hull lines and deck plans. Instead, this brand believes in excellent naval architecture, innovation, sophistication, and beauty. This is a brand that has laid the foundation of sailboat as a sport not just in America but all over the world.

These models have graced the world for decades and bring immense pleasure to their owners in terms of innovation, performance, and excellence. Though rooted in tradition, the brand has pushed sophistication, technology, and sailing experience to a whole new level. You'll be a proud owner of the Sparkman & Stephens model.

There you have it; these are the best sailboat brands in the world. Although there are several other sailboat brands to choose from, the-above described brands stand shoulder above others in terms of quality, safety, performances and luxury.

Hopefully, you're at a much better place when it comes to choosing a sailboat that suits your lifestyle, needs, and budget .

Happy sailing!

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I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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