Top 5 Solar Powered Boat Options

Solar powered boats are becoming a popular option for environmentally conscious sailing enthusiasts. They are quiet, can travel long distances without the need for fuel stops, produce no carbon emissions, and don’t depend on fossil fuels.

The rising popularity of solar-powered boats marks a significant shift in marine transportation towards renewable energy and sustainability. These boats showcase a future where clean, emission-free transport is not only feasible but also preferred, thanks to advancements in solar technology and design.

So, how do solar boats operate? What are their advantages? And which are the top solar boats on the market? 

 

How Do Solar Powered Boats Work?

 

Recent advancements in solar panels and rechargeable batteries have significantly improved their efficiency and durability. Panels are now lighter and stronger, and batteries are more compact and efficient, lasting longer and costing less than before.

These technological improvements and a growing interest in eco-friendly sailing have propelled solar yachts from niche concepts to mainstream choices.

Solar boats utilise solar energy to power their motors, navigation systems, and onboard electronics and appliances. The system works similarly to a solar setup on a house or RV, with structural modifications to meet marine environment challenges.

Solar panels on the boat collect energy from the sun and send it to a charge controller, which regulates the electricity flow to a bank of rechargeable (usually lithium-ion) batteries. Power is then sent from the batteries to the electric motors, navigation systems, and appliances via an inverter, which converts direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) used by most household appliances.

A solar system can be added to any boat, making it a hybrid or providing supplemental power from a renewable source. This reduces carbon emissions, cuts fuel costs, and extends the distance you can sail without refuelling.

What Are The Benefits of Using a Solar Powered Boat?

 

Solar boats offer numerous benefits beyond renewable energy and reduced carbon emissions:

No Reliance on Fuel – Diesel generators can serve as emergency backups, but they are unnecessary for daily sailing or electricity generation.

Unlimited Range – Constantly recharged batteries by the sun eliminate the need for refuelling stops, allowing indefinite travel.

No Noise and No Fumes – Absence of an engine means no noise or diesel fumes, making for a more peaceful sailing experience.

No Pollution – Solar boats produce no noise pollution, carbon, or greenhouse gas emissions and eliminate the risk of fuel or oil spills.

More Space – Without engines, there’s more room for storage, as electric motors and batteries occupy less space.

Lower Running Costs – Beyond initial investment and occasional maintenance, solar energy is free, reducing fuel and engine maintenance costs.

Less Maintenance – Solar panels require regular cleaning, but little else. A well-installed solar system needs minimal upkeep.

No Limitations on Electrical Use – With solar power, you often have more electricity than needed, allowing you to run appliances like air conditioning freely.

 

Options to Sell Power Back to Shore Stations

 

Excess solar power can be shared or sold back to the grid at some shore stations.

While the benefits vary depending on your location and the boat’s specifications, there are some downsides, such as slower speeds and high initial investment. However, solar boats are well worth considering.

 

5 of the Best Solar Boats and Yachts 

 

Here are five outstanding solar boats available in 2024, ranging in size, style, and price:

 

1. Silent Yachts – Silent 55

 

The Silent 55 by Silent Yachts is a smaller solar yacht manageable by two people, with or without additional crew. It’s spacious and economically designed without sacrificing luxury, offering three to six cabins and various amenities for permanent onboard living.

• Price: From £1.97 million  
• Where to Buy: Silent Yachts

 

2. Serenity Yachts – Serenity 64

 

The Serenity 64 is a hybrid yacht with a diesel engine, allowing for solar-powered or faster diesel cruising. It features ample living space with four en suite cabins and luxurious amenities.

• Price: From £3.3 million  
• Where to Buy: Serenity Yachts

 

3. Sunreef Yachts – Eco 80 Sail Catamaran

 

Sunreef Yachts’ Eco sail catamarans use a unique ‘solar skin’ to generate power from every angle, supplemented by hydro and wind power. They also use eco-friendly materials and can be customised to the owner’s specifications.

• Price: On request  
• Where to Buy: Sunreef Yachts Eco

 

4. Soel Yachts – Soel Senses 48

 

The Soul Senses 48 is a lightweight, 48ft solar electric catamaran designed for efficiency. It has two sleeping berths for two people each and additional sleeping space in the salon, with a sleek and modern interior and exterior.

• Price: Price on request  
• Where to Buy: Soel Yachts

 

5. Azura Marine – Aquanima 40

 

The Aquanima by Azura Marine is fully solar-powered with innovative features like rainwater collection from solar panels and the ability to sell excess solar power back to shore stations. It offers two double guest cabins and two single crew cabins.

• Price: From €523,000  
• Where to Buy: Azura Marine*

*Boats reviewed by ClimateSort.