Why we should all be enjoying electric boating

GESPONSORD ARTIKEL

Optima yachts is one of a number of companies catering for the exciting future of boating – electrification – except it's not the future – it's here now.

Electrification offers so much more than the traditional fossil fuel boat – benefits range from economic, environmental through to user experience. They are quieter, cleaner and cheaper to run and maintain – what’s not to like!

The on-water experience is a revelation. Electric motors run almost silently making for a more peaceful experience to enjoy the natural sounds of the water without fumes while being less disruptive to nature. Conversations and socialising can take place during the journey without having to shout above engine noise.

Anyone who has driven an electric car will have experienced the instant torque and this is the same on a boat – exciting on a small sports boat and giving a smooth acceleration for passengers on larger vessels. Electric propulsion systems are easier to use allowing for more responsive handling and ease of maneuverability. With the addition of autonomous elements for berthing for example, getting out on the water becomes so much easier and more accessible.

The reduced maintenance required on an electric boat means that the overall running costs are minimal – between 5%-10% of the yearly cost of a fossil fuel boat.

Cost per mile is cheaper and the reality is that electricity is much more widely available than petrol or diesel. Simply plugging the boat into shore power is much less time consuming that visiting fuel berth.

Fast charging infrastructure is being installed on coastlines and inland waterways, but the reality is that there is already a power supply on every marina berth.

So what’s not to like – the user benefits are so much better but more than that we will be preserving the marine ecosystems and building on a legacy for future generations to enjoy the wonder of our oceans. Optima is based on the south coast of England in Lymington, and have produced an ultra-efficient boat that uses significantly less energy creating a viable alternative to a fossil fuel vessel.

The aim was to produce a boat that is comfortable, stable, stylish and able to do long distance cruising while “enjoying the journey”. Catering for the both the leisure boat industry and commercial industry in the form of a water taxi version, Optima have achieved just that. The Optima e10 was the first electric boat to circumnavigate the Isle of Wight on one charge, a journey of 55 miles – “ we returned to Lymington, having a relaxed journey with a third of battery power remaining and the trip cost a total of £15”

Optima is attracting an influx of enthusiasts and conscientious consumers alike to embark on a journey towards a cleaner, quieter and more meaningful future on the water.

To capitalise on 5 years of R&D, Optima are now looking for investors and partners to possibly include new ownership.

https://www.optima-yachts.com