Time for a GREEN Yacht?

Liz Travers has been keeping a close watch on the exciting developments in futuristic, eco-friendly superyacht design – made possible by technological advancements and growing demand from environmentally conscious yacht owners.

Major eco-design innovations, including lightweight materials and new ways of generating energy, have given rise to a new generation of super yachts which are ‘green’, but still oozing with the kind of sophisticated luxury that appeals to their owners.

It is an exciting time, the dawning of a whole new era of super yachts where environmental concerns are at the top of the agenda. So what does yacht eco-design mean, and where can carbon emissions savings be made?

Firstly, in HULL DESIGN: Radical aero and hydro dynamic systems create efficient and economical cruising speeds; Hull construction using lightweight composite materials is on the increase, and on one yacht we know there is a material above the waterline covered in energy-gathering photovoltaic cells. Secondly, in INTERIORS: Materials can include recycled leather, natural fibre upholstery and wood sourced from sustainable forests. Thirdly, in POWER GENERATION: Energy may come from one source, or a hybrid including solar, sail, hydrogen, biodiesel and electrical power.

Italian ship classification company, RINA, encourages the introduction of new technologies and can award Green Star Standards to highly efficient yachts that can have a low environmental impact. Two ‘green’ super yachts currently operating under these standards are the 62m Candyscape II, launched in 2009, and the 41m Ocean Emerald.

The catamaran Planet Solar (designed by LOMOcean Design) runs on solar power. She is about to undertake the first world tour of a solar-powered yacht – starting in the Mediterranean, crossing the Atlantic, through the Panama Canal, to the Pacific and Indian Oceans and then along the Suez Canal. The project marks a significant milestone in scientific research and development in the field of eco friendly travel and will ensure that renewable energy gets some press coverage.

The Soliloquy (designed by Alastair Callender) is a solar-powered super yacht that sails with zero carbon emissions. It uses solar-powered energy for propulsion and internal fittings, including the plasma TV!  The yacht has three fixed sails designed with solar panels which can power the boat in winds of up to 40 knots.

The Organik (designed by SVDesign) allows efficient and silent cruising by powering its propulsion with two pods with electric engines and a power plant relying on fuel cells.

The Transcendence (designed by Sauter Design) has only a small carbon footprint, achieving high speeds by using Mercedes Benz/MTU Bluetec diesel electric engines, and employs a hi-tech Solar Hybrid design.

The Orcageno (designed by Pharos Marine) is powered by a hydrogen-diesel combustion engine and can be operated by either resource.

The Solar Gem (designed by Dennis Ingmansson)  is constructed with light recyclable materials and powered by a hybrid electric motor system, which can utilise both solar and wind energy.

Tempted? No? Well if you aren’t yet ready to make the move to a super-green superyacht, remember we offer the popular option to offset the carbon dioxide emissions from your existing fuel consumption, by supporting reputable carbon reduction projects around the world. Just ask for a quote!

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