portless electric catamaran

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My watchlist
• Stock market
• Biden economy
• Personal finance
• Stocks: most active
• Stocks: gainers
• Stocks: losers
• Trending tickers
• World indices
• US Treasury bonds
• Top mutual funds
• Highest open interest
• Highest implied volatility
• Currency converter
• Basic materials
• Communication services
• Consumer cyclical
• Consumer defensive
• Financial services
• Industrials
• Real estate
• Mutual funds
• Credit cards
• Balance transfer cards
• Cash back cards
• Rewards cards
• Travel cards
• Online checking
• High-yield savings
• Money market
• Home equity loan
• Personal loans
• Student loans
• Options pit
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing
• Newsletters

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

Portless Catamaran: Inflatable Party Boat Packs Down to Fit in Your Trunk

Party boats are a luxury many people can’t afford, especially if they have no place to store one — but one Hungarian company is looking to make the kinds of outings bragged about by rich TikTokkers a lot more accessible to the average person. Designed by DDD Manufaktura , the Portless Catamaran is a dual-deck electric boat that can hold as many as eight people. On top of that, it’s inflatable and packs down to an ultra-compact size when it’s time to take it back home.

Looking at the design, it’s clear from the outset that the Portless Catamaran isn’t going to win any awards for aesthetics or speed. Then again, that’s not really the point of this ultra-lightweight vessel. It’s a big step up from a simple raft, or even the kind of small, sub-$10K boat you might tow with a trailer. You could try to cram a lot of occupants on either of those, but it won’t be safe, and it definitely won’t be comfortable. The Portless Catamaran, on the other hand, has enough lounging surfaces to go around.

The inflatable catamaran comes in two sizes: a smaller standard version measuring 14.8 feet long that can support four to six people, and the larger Deluxe Catamaran that measures 19.7 feet long and is safe for up to eight occupants. Unlike the kind of folding fabric shade top seen on many pleasure crafts, this catamaran’s “roof” is strong enough to use as a second deck. The main deck of the standard size model measures 97 square feet, and the upper deck offers 32 square feet while holding up to 350 pounds. Ladder-like steps built into the side wall offer access from below.

The standard size Portless Catamaran starts out as a compact 265-pound package that fits in the trunk of a car. You’ll definitely need a few people to get it in and out, but what other kind of boat can be transported to the water in a Kia sedan? You’ll probably need a trailer to transport the larger version, since it weighs 772 pounds, but the Deluxe still breaks down into four pieces that zip together. The creators say you can get the standard size out of your vehicle, inflated, and launched in less than 10 minutes, while the deluxe takes about 20.

The vessel is made with the same type of materials and construction as inflatable paddle boards, equipped with a small 1-kilowatt Epropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus electric outboard motor and lithium-polymer battery powered by a flexible solar panel . It’s not clear exactly how much of a range you’d get with those specs, but it’s probably safe to say you shouldn’t plan to cruise around for hours on end.

Okay, so the experience probably doesn’t come close to a day out on a billionaire’s superyacht , but the Portless Catamaran still looks extremely fun to use. The motor will definitely allow you to jet out to the open water to find a prime spot away from the crowds for swimming, diving, sunbathing, and whatever else you might get up to. With prices starting at $12,375 for the standard Portless Catamaran and $23,750 for the Deluxe, it’s reasonably affordable, too, and it could even work for people who don’t have a garage or driveway to store it.

The post Portless Catamaran: Inflatable Party Boat Packs Down to Fit in Your Trunk first appeared on Dornob .

Recommended Stories

Dolphins owner stephen ross reportedly declined $10 billion for team, stadium and f1 race.

The value of the Dolphins and Formula One racing is enormous.

Under Armour is collapsing — And Kevin Plank has to take the blame

The Under Armour meltdown continues.

UFC Vegas 92: Piera Rodríguez DQ'd for multiple illegal headbutts vs. Ariane Carnelossi

Rodríguez was warned by the ref to watch her head. She responded by headbutting her opponent even harder.

Fox's Greg Olsen wins Emmy for best NFL analyst right before getting replaced by Tom Brady

Fox Sports is going to spend $375 million to replace an Emmy winner.

Diana Taurasi says Caitlin Clark's game is 'going to translate' after predicting her early struggles

The Mercury star's comment that "reality is coming" for Clark and other rookies took on a life of its own.

Tied for the most bets for No. 1 overall pick in NBA Draft is ... Bronny James?

The co-leader in bets for the No. 1 overall pick is a stunner.

PGA Championship: Will Zalatoris says group of players considered asking for postponement after death, Scottie Scheffler arrest

It was a surreal day at the PGA Championship.

Report: Fanatics files lawsuit against Cardinals rookie WR Marvin Harrison Jr. for breach of contract

Marvin Harrison Jr., Fanatics said, “rejected or ignored every request” from the company while refusing to fulfill obligations of their contract that was signed last May.

Best and worst NFL offseasons with the Ringer's Steven Ruiz | The Exempt List

Charles McDonald is joined by Steven Ruiz of The Ringer to break down which teams had the best and worst offseasons in the NFL

Tesla stock pops after company reveals new details, deliveries for its semitruck program

Robotaxis, low-cost cars, and the Cybertruck aren't stopping Tesla from pushing ahead with its new semitruck, which is set to reach customers by 2026.

The Spin: Making a call on 5 slumping fantasy baseball stars

All five of these hitters were drafted highly in fantasy baseball leagues. So far, they have not lived up to their ADPs — and that's an understatement. Scott Pianowski analyzes.

Struggling Cardinals, Blue Jays among 3 teams that could spark life into the MLB trade deadline

If teams like St. Louis and Toronto decide to pull the plug on this season, some big names could become available on the trade market this summer.

Are the Phillies really this good? Or has their schedule just been easy?

With largely the same group of players as the past two seasons, the answer for Philadelphia can be both.

Preakness Stakes 2024 winner, payouts, results: Seize the Grey wins at Pimlico, Mystik Dan finishes 2nd, ending Triple Crown bid

Live updates from the 149th Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore

The Mavericks' major gambles pay off as Luka Dončić, Kyrie Irving lead charge to West finals

Shrewd moves and timely deals have the aggressive Mavericks moving on in the postseason — and perhaps to an even better tomorrow.

2025 Honda Civic Hybrid revealed, plus Civic-wide design and tech updates

The 2025 Honda Civic is here, and it lands as the 11th generation’s mid-cycle refresh.

Auburn RB Brian Battie critically wounded in Sarasota shooting

Battie's older brother Tommie was killed and three others were shot early Saturday morning .

Welcome to the WNBA: Caitlin Clark's regular-season debut is anything but easy

Clark set the Indiana Fever’s franchise record for turnovers (10), shot 5-of-15 from the floor and struggled with the Connecticut Sun’s physical defense.

NBA Draft Combine reactions: Edey oh my, Bronny James is ready & whose stock is rising? | On the Clock with Krysten Peek

Yahoo Sports NBA draft expert Krysten Peek is back for another season of On the Clock with Krysten Peek. Krysten just spent the week in Chicago at the NBA Draft Combine and kicks off draft season joined by CBS Sports' Kyle Boone.

Justin Fields on Steelers QB situation, Russell Wilson: 'I'm definitely competing. Russ knows that'

"I'm nowhere near my ceiling," Fields said. Wilson told reporters: "I don't blink."

Portless Catamaran: Inflatable Party Boat Packs Down to Fit in Your Trunk

Party boats are a luxury many people can’t afford, especially if they have no place to store one — but one Hungarian company is looking to make the kinds of outings bragged about by rich TikTokkers a lot more accessible to the average person. Designed by DDD Manufaktura , the Portless Catamaran is a dual-deck electric boat that can hold as many as eight people. On top of that, it’s inflatable and packs down to an ultra-compact size when it’s time to take it back home.

Looking at the design, it’s clear from the outset that the Portless Catamaran isn’t going to win any awards for aesthetics or speed. Then again, that’s not really the point of this ultra-lightweight vessel. It’s a big step up from a simple raft, or even the kind of small, sub-$10K boat you might tow with a trailer. You could try to cram a lot of occupants on either of those, but it won’t be safe, and it definitely won’t be comfortable. The Portless Catamaran, on the other hand, has enough lounging surfaces to go around.

Newsletter Sign Up

Get the latest design news!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the latest design news.

Thanks for subscribing! Expect a newsletter with the latest out-of-the ordinary designs and innovation soon.

I agree to receive emails from the site. I can withdraw my consent at any time by unsubscribing. Dornob's privacy policy.

The inflatable catamaran comes in two sizes: a smaller standard version measuring 14.8 feet long that can support four to six people, and the larger Deluxe Catamaran that measures 19.7 feet long and is safe for up to eight occupants. Unlike the kind of folding fabric shade top seen on many pleasure crafts, this catamaran’s “roof” is strong enough to use as a second deck. The main deck of the standard size model measures 97 square feet, and the upper deck offers 32 square feet while holding up to 350 pounds. Ladder-like steps built into the side wall offer access from below.

The standard size Portless Catamaran starts out as a compact 265-pound package that fits in the trunk of a car. You’ll definitely need a few people to get it in and out, but what other kind of boat can be transported to the water in a Kia sedan? You’ll probably need a trailer to transport the larger version, since it weighs 772 pounds, but the Deluxe still breaks down into four pieces that zip together. The creators say you can get the standard size out of your vehicle, inflated, and launched in less than 10 minutes, while the deluxe takes about 20.

The vessel is made with the same type of materials and construction as inflatable paddle boards, equipped with a small 1-kilowatt Epropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus electric outboard motor and lithium-polymer battery powered by a flexible solar panel . It’s not clear exactly how much of a range you’d get with those specs, but it’s probably safe to say you shouldn’t plan to cruise around for hours on end.

Okay, so the experience probably doesn’t come close to a day out on a billionaire’s superyacht , but the Portless Catamaran still looks extremely fun to use. The motor will definitely allow you to jet out to the open water to find a prime spot away from the crowds for swimming, diving, sunbathing, and whatever else you might get up to. With prices starting at $12,375 for the standard Portless Catamaran and $23,750 for the Deluxe, it’s reasonably affordable, too, and it could even work for people who don’t have a garage or driveway to store it.

You Might Also Like

Trending tags.

• #Art & Design (1385 posts)
• #Technology (585 posts)
• #Home (1001 posts)
• #Decor (131 posts)
• #Architecture (1803 posts)

Art & Design Art of Design Do-It-Yourself Events & Awards Fashion & Style Industrial Design Urban Design

Architecture Contemporary Conversions Offbeat Prefab Sustainable/Green

Interiors Bathrooms Bedrooms Kitchens Living & Dining Space-Saving

Home Appliances Decor Fixtures Furniture Odds & Ends

Technology Auto Green Humanitarian Smart Living Travel Gear

• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Terms of Use

Sign up for our newsletter

"Portless Catamaran" : A catamaran to inflate

 ·  18.09.2022

Sounds a bit crazy, yes. But it can be seen as the "Portless Catamaran" at the "Interboot" trade fair in Friedrichshafen. And one of the favourites of the new trade fair director Felix Klarmann.

The idea comes from Hungary - and is more or less a further development of inflatable SUPs: the drop-stitch technology used there now makes it possible to manufacture inflatable products with high sidewall strength. The two-storey hull of the "Portless Catamaran" was designed in such a way that it only weighs around 120 kilograms in total and is divided into four elements that can be easily connected with strong, industrial zips. "Assembly is very simple," promises the manufacturer. And none of the individual elements weigh more than 30 kilograms, meaning that the catamaran can also be assembled by one person alone. A "safety roller" at the front and rear prevents slipping - and also provides some comfort when lying down. In addition, the upper deck, which can be reached via a multifunctional ladder and also features a bendable, walk-on solar panel, can be used for sunbathing. The catamaran is designed for a total of six people.

The inflatable catamaran in detail:

The vehicle is produced in a total of two different versions: There is the 4.5 by 2.5 by 2 metre basic version with 9+3 square metres of usable space and an upper deck that can hold a maximum of 160 kilograms. And there is a larger and significantly heavier 6 x 3 x 3 metre "Deluxe" version with 14 plus 12 square metres of usable space. There is also an 8 square metre inflatable floating dock called "Beach", which can be used for sunbathing, swimming or simply as an extension to the outside area of your motorboat.

Electric motor with solar charging on board

The necessary propulsion is provided by the Spirit 1.0 plus motor from ePropulsion . It produces a maximum noise emission of 60 decibels, delivers the equivalent of around three horsepower and is suitable for boats up to around 1.5 tonnes. With an economical driving style, it initially has a range of four hours, at full speed - 7 km/h - it is already over after one and a quarter hours, and the motor with its battery capacity of 1,276 Wh then has to be recharged for eight hours. According to the manufacturer, the lithium-polymer battery offers on average twice as long a journey time on a single charge as other electric motors with a lower battery capacity. If the battery should fall into the water, it simply floats back to the surface. A display provides information on performance, voltage, remaining running time and battery charge and is backlit for better visibility.

The Deluxe model can be equipped with up to two 3-kilowatt motors, which of course consumes more energy. However, the maximum speed is then 14 km/h.

Long-term operation of the electric motor is guaranteed by the solar cell on the upper deck of the catamaran "If there is enough sunshine, you can even keep moving all day long," promises the manufacturer. Large windows offer an almost 360-degree all-round view, but the boat can also be closed with UV-resistant, transparent blinds - and there are also curtains as an extra to provide shade everywhere.

The price list and further information are available on request at portlesscatamaran.com

• Further innovations at Interboot 2022 are shown here >>

Most read in category Boats

The Portless Catamaran can take a 160kg load with “no extra stiffening”

DDD Manufaktura’s Portless Catamaran built to party hard

The inflatable Portless Catamaran may look like serious fun, but it’s not at all like putting a bouncy castle on the water. According to Tamás Giricz of Hungary-based DDD Manufaktura, the assumption that the dual-deck boat is just a ‘cheap toy’ is probably the biggest challenge he’s had to overcome – but he’s philosophical about it. “All innovative technology has to overcome traditional, established ideas,” he says. However, seeing the boat in action has changed minds. “We tested this out on Lake Balaton and, before the season ended, we had sold out of our first production run,” he adds.

In contrast to traditional ‘beam construction’ inflatables, which tend to have rounded surfaces, drop-stitch technology uses low-stretch aramid fibres to hold the top and bottom surfaces equidistant from each other. Thousands of fine strands (the ‘drop stitches’) per square inch are positioned to distribute load, creating a rigid, slab-like structure when inflated.

Once this drop-stitch core is completed, heat is used to fuse these tough, woven fibres to layers of reinforced PVC, adding durability. “It’s not easy to damage under normal use, not even intentionally,” Giricz says. This construction method also allows for far higher internal pressure: the catamaran has a constant internal pressure of 5psi, so, if a collision occurs, the hull will not be damaged. While the initial production runs were guaranteed for two years, DDD is about to raise that to five years, such is the company’s confidence in the inflatable’s resilience.

The stability of the design means that even the standard six-person, 4.5m version has a 9m2 main deck with a 3m2 top canopy, accessed by steps in the sidewall. The canopy can take a 160kg load: just enough to accommodate two or three passengers, all while requiring “no extra stiffening”, Giricz says. The eight-person, 6m version of the Portless Catamaran, branded the ‘Deluxe S’ line, is 30-40% bigger all round, and has a ‘ceiling’ height of 2m across the covered element of the main deck. It weighs in at 350kg but breaks down into smaller, zip-together packages, so splitting transport across a couple of cars might be an option.

The 4.5m version comes with a 100W solar array, usually paired with a 1.3kWh battery and a 1kW ePropulsion Spirit 1.0-Plus electric outboard. The 6m Deluxe S can carry a four-piece, 200W solar panel installation and a pair of 3kW electric outboards, with a maximum battery capacity of 16.3kWh – enough to grant this version of the boat a speed of 4knots.

The endurance of these catamarans depends a lot on wind and current speed, says Giricz, and obviously this requires some careful thought. However, he tells Ship & Boat International, the large battery pack allows the vessel to stay on the water for 10-13 hours at a respectable 3.2knots, and the solar panels on the roof could keep the batteries topped up “for as long as the sun is shining”. So, while they’re not particularly designed with distance travel in mind, the Portless Catamarans could still be an affordable, quirky way to experience inland waters and lakes.

Related Posts

The ‘midi-SOV’ concept: downsizing for efficiency gains

Industry News , Ship & Boat International - News

While the global offshore wind market continues to thrive, support vessel operators are still under pressure to reduce overall Opex alongside reductions in emissions and fuel consumption. One proposed solution has been the creation of a ‘halfway house’ between...

Zero USV plans autonomous surveys by the dozen

News Archive , Ship & Boat International - News

For a compact uncrewed vessel, the Oceanus12, developed by Zero USV, promises an extensive reach when it comes to truly autonomous, AI-supported missions in high sea states, writes Stevie Knight. To start with, Zero USV has initially committed to a fleet of a dozen...

End of an era for diesel-powered CTVs

Late March saw the ‘end of an era’ of sorts – not to mention, a new beginning – as UK offshore wind CTV operator Tidal Transit purchased what it intends to be its last ever diesel-powered crew carrier, in line with its plans to transition to a fully electric fleet....

Ocean Aurora promises autonomous ROV deployments

If the subsea deployment of ROVs, AUVs and UUVs can reduce Opex and emissions, it makes sense that using an uncrewed vessel to launch and recover these drones could boost operational efficiency even further. That’s the rationale behind the design of the Ocean Aurora:...

Inflatable Two-Level Catamarans

The Portless Catamaran Offers Space for Up to Six People

Universe Discovery

Discovering the Universe

What Are 2-story e-Catamaran Party Lounge: Portless Deluxe Catamarans

Do you know that you can have a wonderful party at Catamarans? Well, if you don’t know what are catamarans, then here is a brief guide for you.

What are Catamarans?

The Portless Catamaran is a unique type of boat since it is a sizable inflatable that can be transported to the water in a car. At the water’s edge, it instantly expands into a dual-deck cruiser and lounge that is propelled by a small electric outboard motor that is assisted by a flexible solar panel in moving along cleanly and quietly.

It invites boaters to enjoy long days on the water while riding a fun, straightforward, stable electric vessel, leaving the hassles of the marina, off-season dry storage, and boat trailers in the past.

What is Portless Catamaran?

The Portless Catamaran is a two-deck, electric, inflatable catamaran that can carry 4 to 8 passengers, depending on the size of the group. It gets the party out on the lake and keeps everyone there as long as the electric motor’s battery is charged, which could be all day if solar power is used.

The Portless Catamaran is made in Hungary by DDD Manufaktra, a company with a presence in Germany as well. It utilizes the same robust drop-stitch hull design as inflatable paddleboards.

It will require a few people to carry because it weighs 265 lb (120 kg) when fully packed, but because it can be stored inside the trunk of a bigger car, transit is simpler than with solid-hulled catamarans.

The Portless Catamaran inflates into a stunning 14.8-foot (4.5-m) cat at the water’s edge, with upper and lower decks made to accommodate a total of six passengers. It is intended to take only 10 minutes to transition from the car trunk to the water launch.

The Portless Catamaran has 97 square feet (9 square metres) of room on the main deck, which benefits from the upper deck’s shade, and 32 square feet (3 square meters) of space on the upper deck for sunbathing, watching, and diving into the ocean.

A ladder-like staircase built into the inner side wall provides access to the upper deck, which can support up to 350 lb (160 kg) of weight.

How Much Does Catamaran Cost?

Are you searching for how much does Catamaran cost? Well, Catamarans designed specifically for cruising has a price range of $200,000 to $1M. Whereas an average price of a Catamaran is approximately $500,000.

Catamarans designed for cruising can be purchased for between $200,000 and $600,000 in their used state. The price of inexpensive recreational catamarans, which are often less than 20 feet in length, is typically less than $50,000.

Well, if we talk about a Catamaran boat tour, then the tour cost varies depending on various factors. Such as the time you book a tour, number of passengers, size of the catamaran, type of the catamaran, and a few more things.

On average, a Catamaran tour will cost you from 50$ per person to 80$ per person. In any case, you must confirm the prices of different operators before you book your catamaran boat tour.

You may also like

Popular Tourist Attractions in Sydney

Range Rover drives up 45 degrees

Explore natural beauty in Solomon Islands

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

rossinavi’s first hybrid-electric AI catamaran ‘M/Y seawolf X’ resembles a sports car on water

Rossinavi’s m/y seawolf x is a hybrid-electric ai catamaran.

For the first time, Rossinavi brings out a hybrid-electric catamaran named M/Y Seawolf X, powered by artificial intelligence . The Italian builder developed its own onboard artificial intelligence system called ‘Rossinavi AI’ which, as the company says, can learn from observation and predict the needs of the guests on board. It can help the crew members by advising them what to do to allow for conscious cruising and may lend a hand to the captain on what mode they should use in navigation or the current water situation.

The Rossinavi AI is believed to be able to monitor the hybrid-electric catamaran’s battery pack too, keeping it within the range of 20 and 80 percent so that its life can be extended. M/Y Seawolf X also prides itself on a long cruise, depending on the type of travel. On day trips, it can cruise in full electric mode. On multi-day trips, it can go on as an electric catamaran for 90 percent of the time, while 80 percent during transatlantic trips. When it goes into hibernation mode, it reduces its consumption to a minimum on its own.

Solar panels to generate green energy for cruising

Rossinavi’s first hybrid-electric catamaran, M/Y Seawolf X, also has solar panels, storing the energy captured from sunlight and returning it to the quay or private property where it is moored by powering or charging up equipment or even an entire villa. The hybrid-electric catamaran can be fully recharged at the shore power in only five hours. The water vehicle also comes with two diesel generators to quickly recharge the batteries. M/Y Seawolf X, and the other recent Rossinavi models, are propelled by batteries and solar panels that can operate in electric mode for day trips 100 percent of the time and sustain electric mode for 80 percent of the time on transatlantic voyages.

a hidden pool and a convertible home theater

Rossinavi taps Fulvio de Simoni Yacht Design for the exterior design and New York-based practice Meyer Davis Studio for the interiors of its first hybrid-electric catamaran, M/Y Seawolf X. Outside, the vessel exudes the look of a sports car. To achieve the style, a sleek and low-profile silhouette is applied, creating an illusion of the two giant wheels with a hollow body below when the guests view the catamaran from its front or rear.

Outside, the vessel has a sloping design, with its full-aluminum structure curving to mimic gentle waves. Stepping inside, Meyer Davis plants outdoor living on the electric yacht, spanning three distinct areas: a cockpit centered around a pool, an expansive sundeck with sunbathing and living spaces, and a bow area featuring a hidden pool and a convertible home theater. As of publishing the story, M/Y Seawolf X is Rossinavi’s first hybrid-electric AI catamaran.

aerial view of Rossinavi’s first hybrid-electric AI catamaran ‘M/Y Seawolf X’

project info:

name: M/Y Seawolf X

brand: Rossinavi

exterior design: Fulvio de Simoni Yacht Design

interior design: Meyer Davis Studio

artificial intelligence (358)

shane guffogg's synesthesia transforms paintings into music at venice exhibition

google AI and harvard researchers release detailed images of human brain using 3D mapping

meyer davis (3)

Water vehicles (105), product library.

a diverse digital database that acts as a valuable guide in gaining insight and information about a product directly from the manufacturer, and serves as a rich reference point in developing a project or scheme.

• love hultén (11)
• sound art (64)
• car design (802)
• electric automobiles (644)
• materials (71)
• recycling (335)
• car concept (359)
• space travel design (98)

designboom will always be there for you

Peep into the interior of ‘This Is It’ – the largest to be motor catamaran for charter

The Italian Sea Group (TISG) left the maritime world in awe when it released the first look of its intriguing catamaran. Now the vessel maker…

This reconfigurable superyacht is a comfortable and safe vessel for high sea adventures

Future-forward yacht designs always entice us and this one was bound to be featured here. Envisioned by Andy Waugh Yacht Design, this watercraft spanning 80…

Portless Catamaran gives you an inflatable, two-level portable water party

One of my favorite childhood memories is floating around in the pool on my small, inflatable, floatable toy. I was already satisfied floating alone there…

This electric catamaran erases limits of imagination: offers safe, livable home on land and water

How often have your camping adventures halted at the shoreline just because your camper was not amphibious? Considerable options combining the benefits of boat and…

Algae harvesting vessel scouts the waters autonomously for responsible aquafarming

As we head into the future, safeguarding the environment and all its resources will be vital for the health of the planet earth. Making optimum…

This luxury catamaran transforms into a camper for the perfect water adventure over weekend

What do you think of a premium catamaran with an all-electric powertrain capable of transforming into a camper on water? The Pol Luxe is that…

Tesla Cybertruck-inspired innovations continue with extensions that transform it into an all-electric catamaran

Cybercat is a hydrofoil-boosted set of amphibious mechanics designed to attach to Tesla’s yet-to-be-released Cybertruck and transform it into an all-electric catamaran. Announced in 2019,…

Lazzarini Design’s gargantuan helium-powered airship glides on water too

Italian design outfit Lazzarini Design Studio is known for its larger-than-life concepts that give us a deep dive of transportation in the future. Their new…

This transparent hull Pininfarina Capitolo catamaran oozes luxury + airiness for leisure in style

A swanky catamaran embodied with the Pininfarina influence is designed for leisure in utmost luxury while having secluded spaces for some me-time. Italian design house…

This ultra-fast boat’s aerodynamic design lets it fly over water and uses 10x less fuel than a helicopter!

French start-up A2V (Advanced Aerodynamic Vessels) recently unveiled a prototype called ‘Lili’ that has the ability to glide on water at 100 km/h. The futuristic…

World’s most sustainable luxury catamaran, the Sunreef 80 Eco is destined to set sail this summer!

Designed primarily with the idea of facilitating responsible sailing backed by clean, renewable energy, the Sunreef 80 Eco yacht has just received the go-ahead to…

This luxury catamaran’s smart fuel efficient design makes it lighter in weight as it picks up speed!

This catamaran gives you the thrill of riding the oceans at adrenaline-inducing speeds while being ultra-efficient. Yes, this vessel designed by Advanced Aerodynamics Vessels based out…

You’re About to See Electric Ferries Everywhere—Here’s What to Know

By Elissa Garay

Electric cars are humming all around; airlines are getting bullish on  electric planes . The next mode of transit to make waves? Battery-powered boats.

Destinations the world over are clamoring for cleaner forms of energy—so it’s no surprise they’re embracing electrified transit as one of the quickest paths to that goal. The sector accounts for about a quarter of annual global greenhouse gas emissions; ships alone are responsible for nearly three percent of that, or about a billion metric tons of CO2 each year. 

To avert the worst outcomes of climate change, the United Nations has set critical global targets for net-zero global emissions by 2050. In June 2021, the U.N.’s International Maritime Organization, which oversees shipping regulations, adopted short-term measures to reduce carbon intensity of all ships by 40 percent by 2030. Meanwhile, a fresh infusion of funding—like President Biden’s 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in the U.S.—is giving a financial boost to innovations around electric ferry technology.

Beyond reducing air and water pollution, electrified passenger ferries tout a host of benefits for local communities. New ferry service can help ease congestion on roads and existing public transit routes, while making transit cleaner, faster, or more direct. 

“An electric battery ferry is a zero-emission option for commuters who may instead have to take a car across a bridge in gridlocked traffic,” says Elise Sturrup, a marine researcher at the nonprofit International Council on Clean Transportation, who has studied electric ferry feasibility. 

For travelers, e-ferry offerings are not only practical, but can be fun, offering unique and scenic viewpoints. More waterborne routes can potentially offer an antidote to overtourism, too, by encouraging visitors to explore less well-trodden locales; checking out Oslo’s suburbs, for instance, is made all the more enticing when sailing through its fjords on a commuter ferry. They can also maximize rider comfort by removing noise, fumes, and vibrations, bonuses which benefit local marine life. 

The picture window-clad Hydrolift Smart City Ferry, developed by the Norway-based company Hyke

For the burgeoning electric ferry, or e-ferry, marketplace, business is brisk: Market researcher Fortune Business Insights projects that by 2027, the electric ships market will be valued at nearly $11 billion—nearly double that of 2019.

The market’s growth has also been boosted by recent advancements in rechargeable battery technology, with batteries getting lighter, more compact, and more energy-dense. “It’s the energy density that’s key,” explains Dr. Linda Gaines, an environmental scientist and systems analyst at the Argonne National Laboratory, a U.S. Department of Energy-affiliated research center in Washington, D.C. “Volume is what’s most limited onboard a vessel.”

In addition to battery safety, she says, which has improved under marine conditions, the technology has also become more cost-efficient for operators; it’s cheaper to charge and maintain electric motors than internal combustion engines. Charging times, while connected to shore-side power in port, have also been reduced, with many modern batteries now capable of charging in under 10 minutes. 

“Ferries are excellent candidates for battery electricity,” says Sturrup, citing their shorter routes, smaller ship sizes, and route consistency, which allows for regular access to charging points.

Bike and luggage store aboard one of Belfast-based Artemis Technologies' EF-24 passenger ferries

Of course, there are a few caveats. E-ferries don’t achieve maximum benefits if the electric grid they’re tapping at port isn’t powered by green energy itself. There are also environmental impact considerations around the development and disposal of the batteries themselves. But, says Gaines, “Electric propulsion for marine vessels is almost always cleaner than combustion.” 

Europe has been leading the charge on the e-ferry revolution, particularly in Scandinavia, which already leads the world in electric car use. Among the standouts: The 30-passenger Candela P-12 shuttle, which begins testing in Sweden this summer. Set to be the world’s fastest electric ship, with speeds of up to 35 miles per hour, the hydrofoil ferry service is set to launch next spring, providing service between Stockholm and its suburbs. In Denmark, the e-ferry Ellen—the world’s longest-range fully electric ferry route, at 22 nautical miles—debuted in 2019, transporting cars and up to 200 passengers between the Danish islands of Ærø and Als.

By Jahnavi Bhatt

By Olivia Morelli

By Abbe Baker

By Kelsey Glennon

But for sheer size and scope, Norway’s e-ferry landscape reigns supreme. According to data provided by the country’s tourism board, the coastline-rich country now claims more than 50 electric ferries, including the world’s first all-electric car ferry, the 350-passenger MF Ampere, which launched in 2015, and the 600-passenger Bastø Electric—the world’s largest all-electric passenger and car ferry—which services Norway’s busiest ferry route across the Oslo Fjord.

One of Norway’s buzziest newcomers, Hyke plans to launch its 50-passenger, picture-window-clad “smart city ferries”—which are partly solar-powered and can wirelessly charge while docked—in Fredrikstad, about an hour outside of Oslo, by May. The company will also deliver and operate four ferries along the Seine during  Paris’s 2024 Olympics. “We see the Olympics as a unique opportunity to show that fighting climate change can be both cool and clean, while also being cost-efficient and accessible to all,” says Hyke CEO Bjørn Utgård.

Elsewhere in Europe, Northern Ireland is readying to pilot a high-speed hydrofoil e-ferry in 2024, designed by the Belfast-based company Artemis Technologies, while Lisbon received the first of 10 planned electric ferries this past March; travelers to Croatia can expect to island-hop from Split via e-ferry by next year. 

The Candela P-12 begins testing in Sweden this summer

In Asia, ambitious e-ferry projects are happening at mass-scale:  Bangkok has ordered 30 new electric ferries, while Kochi, India, and its surrounding islands will be serviced by 78 electrified vessels (the first of which launched in 2022), in what’s already being billed as the world’s largest electric ferry fleet. Down in New Zealand, the Southern Hemisphere’s first fully electric passenger ferry launched in Wellington last year; the Australian ferry manufacturing company Incat is now at work building the world’s largest e-ferry, a 2,100-passenger battery-powered behemoth set to debut in 2025, to transport passengers between Argentina and Uruguay. The vessel, says Incat CEO Tim Burnell, “will have the lowest carbon footprint of any large, internationally operating ferry in the world.”

Closer to U.S. shores, tourist ferries in popular spots like Alcatraz Island, California, off the coast of San Francisco , and New York’s Niagara Falls have gone electric in recent years. Next year, California’s Bay Area will see an e-ferry run between Tiburon and Angel Island, and New York City plans to launch one between Brooklyn and Manhattan. And more are still to come, according to Amy Thompson, a spokesperson for the American Public Transportation Association, thanks to an influx of federal funding—further proof that when it comes to riding the wave of the future, clean and green leads the way.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• Hydrogen Fuel Cell
• battery-powered boat
• Hydrogen Boats

The US’s first hydrogen-fueled ship is officially ready to set sail

The  Sea Change , a hydrogen-powered catamaran ferry, just got Coast Guard clearance to operate commercially in the Bay Area.

Maritime vessel developer SWITCH Maritime received US Coast Guard approval on Friday to operate its flagship hydrogen ferry, the Sea Change, as a public ferry service.

 “We are immensely grateful for the support from the US Coast Guard and all our partners along the path to completion,” said Pace Ralli, CEO of SWITCH. “This is not the finish line, but just a starting point from which to build many more.”

The Sea Change is equipped with hydrogen fuel cells that power its all-electric motors. These cells allow the vessel to travel up to 300 nautical miles (345 miles) at speeds of up to 15 knots (17 mph) and don’t require shoreside charging infrastructure.

Built and launched at All American Marine shipyard in Bellingham, Washington, the  Sea Change  is a 75-passenger catamaran ferry featuring an integrated hydrogen power system from Zero Emission Industries that has 360 kW of fuel cells from Cummins and 600 kW of electric motor propulsion from BAE Systems.

Following a formal launch event in June, the Sea Change  will be operated in a six-month pilot service by the San Francisco Bay Area Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA). It’s funded by a public-private sponsorship that includes the Golden State Warriors and a $3 million grant from the California Air Resources Board.

SWITCH Maritime will put the hydrogen ferry into a more permanent route when the pilot finishes. The company is also developing new designs for larger and faster ferries for San Francisco Bay and other major US and international ferry markets.

Read more: Toyota goes large on hydrogen with new US headquarters

If you’re an electric vehicle owner, charge up your car at home with rooftop solar panels. To make sure you find a trusted, reliable solar installer near you that offers competitive pricing on solar, check out EnergySage , a free service that makes it easy for you to go solar. They have hundreds of pre-vetted solar installers competing for your business, ensuring you get high quality solutions and save 20-30% compared to going it alone. Plus, it’s free to use and you won’t get sales calls until you select an installer and share your phone number with them. 

Your personalized solar quotes are easy to compare online and you’ll get access to unbiased Energy Advisers to help you every step of the way. Get started here . –ad*

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

Michelle Lewis is a writer and editor on Electrek and an editor on DroneDJ, 9to5Mac, and 9to5Google. She lives in White River Junction, Vermont. She has previously worked for Fast Company, the Guardian, News Deeply, Time, and others. Message Michelle on Twitter or at [email protected]. Check out her personal blog.

Michelle Lewis's favorite gear

MacBook Air

Light, durable, quick: I'll never go back.

Because I don't want to wait for the best of British TV.

Manage push notifications