small electric catamaran

The ZEN50 is a game changer. World’s first series production catamaran equipped with a wingsail, it defines a new distinctive class of its own, where genuine zero-emission meets high comfort and performance, limitlessly. 

Designed from scratch for ZEN Yachts by award-winning naval architect Julien Mélot , this full carbon catamaran is the ultimate essence of technology driven, high performance and luxurious, eco-friendly leisure yachting. 

The blue water capable ZEN50 lightweight racing carbon hulls are combined with a huge solar roof for an unrivaled solar power vs. displacement ratio above 1:1 (18 kW / 17 tonnes), making this yacht completely energy self-sufficient. A revolutionary, fully automated, wingsail - by Ayro© - can be added as a range and speed extender. The yacht’s high capacity battery bank powers a powerful silent electric propulsion, allowing the ZEN50 to achieve 14 knots and maintain high continuous speeds in unrivaled safety and comfort, indefinitely… 

The ZEN50 is offered with or without wingsail and comes in 3 main different versions: Racer, Cruiser and Explorer, each dedicated to a different usage and owner profile. We use these versions as a basis to define a final, bespoke specification for each of our valued clients and ZEN Community Members. Scroll down for more details, specifications and prices.

1st WINGSAIL series production yacht in the world!

The OceanWings32 - by Ayro© - was initially developed for Team Oracle, for the America’s Cup 2010 in Valencia. Over years, it has further been developed and automated by VPLP and was installed on Energy Observer in 2019. Two years of field feedback have allowed the Ayro team to fine tune the algorithm commanding the wingsail. The ZEN50 is the first series production leisure craft to be equipped with this fully automated wingsail. It is controlled at the touch of a finger on screens, is automatically adjusted and has several safety modes and features. The two parts of the wingsail can be hoisted and lowered independently and with the simple touch of a button. The wingsail OceanWings32 is the ideal complement for the solar roof for those wishing to cruise long distances off-shore with zero-emissions.

Greatest ratio SOLAR POWER / weight on the market

At 17 tonnes lightweight and 18,000 W of peak solar power, the ratio of the ZEN50 is at over 1 kW per displaced tonne of water or beyond 1:1 which is far beyond any other blue water CE Cat A yacht in this size range. Lots of solar power for little water to displace is the strong and healthy foundation the energy self-sufficient ZEN50 is built upon.

Performance CARBON sandwich hulls

The hulls of the ZEN50 have been designed from a blank screen for ultimate efficiency - understand minimum drag or minimal energy consumption for a range of speeds from 6 to 10 knots. Their shape is aggressive, sharp and slender. Their reverse bows cut through water like a sword cuts through butter and their curvature is reminiscent of graceful dolphin bodies. These hulls are undoubtedly of the performance type and are built with the best available composites: Carbon fibre and Corecell™. The combination of high strength, low weight and performance design allow the ZEN50 to reach speeds of up to 14 knots.

INFINITE range at high CONTINUOUS speeds

With maximized solar and wind power and minimized energy consumption… the ZEN50 can sail continuously at speeds varying between 6 and 10 knots. Thorough simulations in various sea states and weather system have consistently shown the ZEN50 will be able to achieve performance catamaran speeds continuously without using a genset. With the ZEN50, the world is your oyster and the wildest destinations are within your reach with this self-reliant vessel!

True ZERO-EMISSION operation

The first ZEN50 unit, whose construction started in March 2023, will not be equipped with a genset at all and will not have any fossil fuels onboard. The ZEN50 energy system with its very large capacity 160 kWh battery bank, has been designed to function for days in complete safety with minimal solar energy harvest and no wind. It is perfectly safe with no backup genset and operates 24/7 without any polluting emissions.

NO FUEL , no costs

Naturally, requiring no fuel to operate day in day out is great news for the environment, it is also fantastic news when sailing into remote areas where fuel bunkering might be near impossible or where the fuel quality might be an issue. Finally, it also makes a massive difference in this yacht’s costs of operation. Imagine the hundreds of liters of diesel saved over just a week, the obsolete engine maintenance schedules, the clogged filters and dirty tanks from another age… Welcome to a new burden-free, energy self-sufficient era, welcome to clean and graceful eco-yachting, welcome to ZEN Yachts.

Highest SAFETY & reliability

At ZEN Yachts, we have made some design choices to attain energy self-reliance with the ZEN50 that reduces the habitable volume in the hulls, similar to performance catamarans. Where we have not and will never compromise is on safety. Our main voltage system is 48V making it perfectly safe to work on. The level of redundancy of the batteries and solar panels is 10! The main electrical architecture is split in 2 so that should anything happen on 1 hull, the entire vessel can still operate normally. There are 2 independent helm stations and the ZEN50 is packed with special safety features, nonsubmersible compartments and we can even offer an in-depth practical course on safety equipment usage and management. Sailing with the ZEN50 is not only exhilarating and clean, it is ultra safe!

Unrivaled space & COMFORT

The ZEN50 offers the speeds of a performance catamaran, the comfort of a large motor yacht and the simplicity of an electric car. No less than 2 large day beds, 3 dining areas for over 10 people, 1 professional galley and 2 wet kitchens, 5 heads, up to 4 double ensuite cabins, 1 bunk double and 1 single together with both saloon and dining areas converting into extra sleeping areas, this is simply unrivaled on a 50 ft. catamaran. Add an electric tender, dive compressor, satellite internet, 2 helm stations (cockpit and flybridge), a solar roof that converts into a gigantic upper deck to enjoy the most epic sunrises and sunsets, welcome onboard the ZEN50!

SPECIFICATIONS

Main particulars.

• Length Over All: 15.7m

• Beam: 8.4m

• Depth Molded: 2.7m at midship

• Displacement (light) : 17 T

• Draft (design): 1.3m (4.3ft) incl. keel

• Passenger Capacity: 12

• Berths: 12 (4 x double + 2 x single + saloon)

• Building Material: Carbon Fiber - Corecell™ composite

• Certification: CE Cat A - Unrestricted with 12 persons

Note: Some of the above figures may vary between versions

PROPULSION & ENERGY

• Propulsion: 2 x 50 kW brushless DC motors

• Main Battery Pack Capacity: 160 kWh Lithium

• Solar Roof Peak Power: 18 kWp

• Wingsail: Oceanwings® OWS 3.2 by Ayro©

• Backup Battery Pack Capacity (Nav/Com/Wing): 5 kWh Lithium

• Main System Voltage: 48V - Low voltage for total human safety

• Accommodation Voltage: 110V or 220V

SPEED & RANGE

• Max. Speed on e-motor only: 10 kn

• Max. Speed on e-motor & Wingsail: 14 kn

• Cruising Speed for continuous operation - solar only: 4.5 - 5 kn

• Cruising Speed for continuous operation - solar and wing: 6 - 10 kn

• Cruising Speed day time: 8 - 10 kn

• Range Over 24 h: 180+ nm

Note: These values may vary between versions and sea / weather conditions

EQUIPMENT INCLUDED - RACER VERSION

• Integrated power management system

• Solar power & energy storage system

• Electric propulsion system

• By-wire steering system

• Helm stations at cockpit & flybridge

• Galley counters, storage, sink, oven, stove, fridge, freezer

• 4 en suite heads with enclosed shower, toilet, sink & faucet (in each head)

• All cabin furniture (as shown in layouts)

• Aft deck fixed dining table and aft sofa with collapsible back rest (as shown in layouts)

• Fore deck day bed and lateral seats (as shown in layouts)

• Outdoor marine cork decking / indoor saloon natural bamboo decking

• All cushions In/Outdoor upholstered with Sunbrella® fabric

• 6 deck hatches

• 2 x 500 liter (2 x 132 gal) fresh water tanks

• 2 x 100 liter approx. (2 x 26 gal) fresh water tanks + 1 fresh water pump

• 2 x 350+ liter approx. (2 x 92 gal) holding tanks

• Railings, cleats and fore deck trampolines

• Mooring equipment: 33 kg Rocna® stainless steel anchor + 50 m stainless steel chain 10 mm + 150 m nylon rope + e-windlass

• Regulatory navigation equipment including navigation lights & mast

• 2 x chart plotter 16”; 2 x VHF with DSC button

• Regulatory Life Saving Appliances

• Critical spare parts kit

Note: The above equipment is for the Racer version. Cruiser & Explorer versions carry additional equipment

ZEN50 Solar Wingsail Electric Catamaran - Solar Roof Layout

ZEN50 Solar Wingsail Electric Catamaran - Flybridge Layout

ZEN50 Solar Wingsail Electric Catamaran - Main Deck Layout - Asymmetric D (subject to changes)

ZEN50 Solar Wingsail Electric Catamaran - Cabin Layout - Asymmetric D (subject to changes)

ZEN50 Solar Wingsail Electric Catamaran - Cabin Layout - Asymmetric E (subject to changes)

SOLAR & WINGSAIL

OCEAN RACER

Solar power & Wing, basic configuration, navigation, safety, fridge, etc.

EUR 2 150 000

WORLD CRUISER

Solar power & Wing, well equipped with A/C and water maker

EUR 2 400 000

ARCTIC EXPLORER

Solar power & Wing ultimate configuration with all available options

EUR 2 650 000

Solar power, basic configuration, navigation, safety, fridge, etc.

EUR 1 700 000

CONTINENTAL CRUISER

Solar power, well equipped configuration with A/C and water maker

EUR 1 900 000

TROPICAL EXPLORER

Solar power ultimate configuration with all available options

EUR 2 100 000

Ready to reserve your ZEN50?

Want more information .

• solar electric yachts
• Soel Senses 62
• Soel Senses 82
• Soel Shuttle 14
• Custom model

True ecotourism

no more fuel

The SoelCat 12 is an energy autonomous solar electric boat, designed from the ground up as a fully sustainable excursion vessel to enjoy the sea. The solar catamaran brings  true eco-tourism  to water-bound operators, communities, resorts, lagoons and nature reserves. With no CO2 or noise emissions involved, we can save the ocean and offer a better experience to our guests! The heart of the concept is  silence : being on board without any distractions lets the journey become the destination!

“Being on the solar catamaran gives you a feeling of total relaxation and freedom. The energy autonomous boat is powered by clean energies and we don’t have to worry about harming the environment with dirty exhaust fumes, fossil fuels or complicated maintenance! Our guests love the quietness and the openness of the vessel, which make every sunset cruise a very special moment!”

S. Dekeunynck, French Polynesia

electric from the start

The SoelCat 12 solar electric catamaran is integrally designed for electric propulsion right from the first line drawing to the matched propeller. Every aspect of this vessel contributes towards its highly efficiency for solar electric sailing. The lightweight yet durable fibreglass construction, the large solar roof and the super slender hulls are the major key factors for the solar vessel’s high performance when it comes to speed and range. The electric propulsion system for the SoelCat 12 is superior when it comest to volume and weight.

MOBILE POWER STATION

During downtime, the SoelCat 12 can utilise its large solar array to provide energy for your land based electricity grid. The solar electric catamaran then turns into a mobile power station and is able to feed 8.6kWp into the AC grid or provide power at remote places where no grid is available. The 120kWh  lithium battery  system supplies all the energy required for save operations during day and night.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Running Time (battery only)
• Running Time (with solar)

“Every detail on the boat is perfect – gorgeous spaces to relax, great spots to view the sunset or the marine life, and even a bar! My favorite moment of all was after sunset, when an incredible manta ray came to say hello, drawn by the underwater lights of the solar catamaran.”

S. Lee, New Zealand

fully customizable

The deck space of the solar electric boat can be customised to your wishes and host a variety of seating arrangements and layouts. Choose classic yacht fittings, luxurious and comfortable. Or practical and economical deck wear and simple bench setup for water taxi services. Furthermore, the electric catamaran can be equipped with a day head in the port side hull.  Get in contact with us now  to learn more about the different options and to discuss your personal requirements with your Soel Yachts contact partner.

The solar electric catamaran can be equipped with removable roll down screens on every side for flexibility in every situation. Screens for sun shading can be applied on good days, while transparent rain screens protect your guests in bad weather conditions. When the screens are not in use, the comfortable SoelCat 12 lounge layout offers spacious space options in the hulls and underneath the furniture.

SUSTAINABLE SEA TRANSPORT

With both the Okeanos Foundation and Soel Yachts sharing a vision of sustainable sea transport and striving for a healthier planet, we are honoured that our partner, the Okeanos Foundation has funded and supported the development of the SoelCat 12. The first SoelCat 12, named the ‘Okeanos Pearl’ is the first energy autonomous vessel for the ecotourism industry and will pave the way for more sustainable coastal water vessels in many different sectors. The Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort is proving a pioneering spirit by operating the solar electric Okeanos Pearl. As the first resort, they are offering truly sustainable, noise and emission-free excursions in the pristine lagoon of Bora Bora to their guests.

Demountable

The SoelCat 12 can be delivered as a demountable solar electric boat, which fits into two 40ft high cube containers. Such compact dimensions enable ease transport of the catamaran at affordable rates to destinations all over the world. Neither lamination processes or specialized tools are required for the SoelCat 12’s quick assembly on location. For more details, please feel free to follow the link below and discuss your project requirements with your Soel Yachts partner!

Your project enquiry

Silent Yachts

Creators of the world’s first series produced, solar-powered electric yachts.

Unlimited Range

Noiseless cruising, zero emission, minimal maintenance, pioneering solar powered yachting since 2009.

The Original Solar Yacht

As the original inventors of series produced solar-electric yachts, we pioneered this innovative approach. Our first model, the Silent 64, was launched to the market in 2016, several years before any other shipyard considered the possibility of going electric.

Leading Technology

Our founders began to research alternative energy sources to power yachts during the mid 1990s. Today, the technology of our in-house developed solar-electric drivetrain has been perfected and is multiple generations ahead in terms of reliability, performance and efficiency.

Historical Track-Record

In 2009, the Solarwave 46 was launched as our first prototype of a fully solar-electric, self-sufficient ocean-going catamaran. Since then, our electric yachts have cruised many 10.000s of nautical miles, performing flawlessly during a variety of weather conditions.

Enabling Self-Sufficiency

What differentiates a Silent is the unprecedented level of autonomy provided by our yachts. Being able to produce your own energy enables a fully self-sufficient lifestyle on board. Travel the oceans sustainably while making them your infinite playground.

The award-winning entry to solar-electric yachts.

Timeless design meets state-of-the-art technology.

120 Explorer

The boldest expression of solar powered yachting yet.

What Makes Us Unique

The tranquility on board of our yachts is unique. A lack of noise, fumes and vibrations create a deep connection with the sea. Luxury and sustainability finally merged into a holistic experience, working hand in hand with nature by minimizing the impact on the marine environment without compromising comfort.

For optimal performance and efficiency, our solar-electric drivetrain integrates seamlessly with all onboard systems. Compared to fossil fuelled powertrains of motoryachts, electric powertrains have very few moving parts, resulting in minimal maintenance, maximum reliability and significantly lower running costs.

The ability to recharge your own batteries with the sun marks a new era of freedom. Depending on cruising speeds and weather conditions, a Silent has virtually unlimited range, enabling you to live a fully self-sufficient lifestyle on board. Unbound by the limitations of fossil fuels, you are free to explore the horizons.

The technology powering our yachts today has been pioneered by our founders almost three decades ago. Continuous upgrading and steady optimization of the entire system are some of the key reasons our in-house developed solar-electric drivetrain offers a comprehensive portfolio of assurances and warranties.

Powered by an advanced jet propulsion system, the fully electric Tender Series perfectly complements the experience on board of our catamarans. Following the same philosophy as our electric yachts, it was developed with a strong focus on being spacious, lightweight and efficient.

As a new breed of Silent, the Speed 28 combines futuristic design with blistering pace. Her high-performance drivetrain is supported by triple foils and embedded solar cells on the hardtop. Advanced hydrodynamics and latest AI management make for a stable ride which always remains comfortable.

Why Silent Yachts

A sensible approach to yachting which works in self-sufficient harmony with nature and creates a completely new experience on board.

New Silent Drivetrain

Tech shorts 2023

Electric power event on the water

Shipyard tour Italy by Michael & Heike

What is the range of a solar electric yacht?

Where are Silent yachts built?

“The Tesla of the seas! An amazing founding couple, a highly innovative product as well as a really cool story behind it. Furthermore, a lot of love and attention has been invested into every single detail – truly impressive!” Frank Thelen / TV Personality, Founder, Angel Investor & Disruption Expert

While the present has brought us the dawn of smart cars, I strongly believe the future will bring us solar powered smart boats – and I definitely want to be at the frontline of that journey. Michael Jost / Former Head of Group Strategy of Volkswagen Group

The idea of sailing while charging your own battery is super powerful to me – solar powered sailing is the perfect love story! Jochen Rudat / Former Tesla Central Europa Director, Advisory Board Silent Group

Elon Musk single handedly forced an entire industry to go electric, as a matter of fact if they don’t all go electric now they will soon die. I would like to see the same thing happening for boating. You are not just selling boats – you are the actual leading edge of a crucial and much overdue revolution to sustainable transport!” Klaus Obermeyer / Emmy Award Winner

I am completely excited about solar catamarans. I knew before they are great but now I truly believe this is the future. After so many boats I’ve seen in over 18 years with Boote Exclusiv, this yacht truly blew my mind. Such a silent and peaceful cruising experience – just the way it should be. Martin Hager / Editor in Chief for Boote Exclusiv - Yachts

Recommended water toys, accessories and products to enhance every Silent voyage:

Introducing the most exciting performance-focused catamaran to hit the sailing world, the Open Waters 40 is an all-electric catamaran that leverages the latest in yacht construction technologies designed to maximize the thrill of sailing yet still provide the creature comforts of a multihull.

Great handling and speed.

The ESC40 is a 40-ft catamaran designed to be two to three times faster than the typical cruising cat – using carbon fibre to reduce weight and provide increased hull strength.

The twin helm stations are covered by a solar cell-covered roof and come with a 59m2 main sail in addition to three headsails: Jib 26 m ² , FRO 65 m ² and Asail 121 m ² .

The hull is rated to handle boat speeds in excess of 20 knots. With curved retractable daggerboards providing better upwind handling and performance at speed.

The retractable rudders, together with the low draft of 2 ft, allow the boat to cruise in shallow waters and to be beached on the bow or stern.

Regenerative Energy

Thanks to the low weight, higher boat speed and the solar/hydro regeneration systems on-board. The boat is a 100% energy self-sufficient.

The twin electric drives and advanced battery technology allows for quiet, fossil fuel-free cruising.

Using 10 kW motors, the close-quarter power and handling is unrivalled. The folding propeller generates electricity while sailing together with the roof-mounted solar cells, recharging the battery while in operation.

The integrated drives, battery and battery management systems are intelligently inter-connected and provide real-time and predictive insights on power consumption, generation and operational range.

The boat comfortably accommodates four adults and two children, and is sure to bring you all modern comforts such as a 400L water reserve shower and an electric stove.

The hull interior boasts 6’4” of head room with the coach offering even more generous space with 6’8” of head room up to 7 at the aft dinette. The wet deck, spacious with 300 ft ² between hulls features the main stateroom.

Each hull features three deck hatches and six portlights for excellent ventilation while the trampoline across the beam is 305 ft ² of play, relaxation and dolphin viewing.

Our unique construction techniques allows us to manufacture the boat in Canada in a quarter of the time compared to traditional boat building.

We can also build and ship your boat in as early as four months, greatly surpassing the industry standard of 12+ months.

From order to build and delivery, our price compares very favourable to other fast cats.

Faster, cheaper delivery

The boat can be packed in a standard 40ft freight container and be shipped safely anywhere in the world at a much lower cost (up to $50,000 savings) and in a fraction of the time.

Boat owners can now also ship their boat one or both ways between North America, the South Pacific, Mediterranean or the Carribean for a one way cruise or an overwintering.

Vacuum Resin Infusion

Vacuum resin infusion is the process at the heart of our technology and is used for all parts.

The vacuum resin process removes all of the air between the fibres of a part prior to the introduction of the resin.

After the process, our parts are meticulously sanded with variable grit — allowing for maximum paint adhesion on surfaces and smooth, stylish edges.

Core Materials

Core materials are introduced into the part to increase stiffness without increasing weight.

The core is a structural-grade foam with a high shear strength characteristic: if the part is of a complex shape, we cut the foam into sections, thermoforming it to the required shape.

We use five different sizes and densities of foam on the boat, optimized for local strength requirements.

We purchase carbon fiber by the roll and over 35 rolls are used in each boat. We have engineered the laminate schedule to be most efficient in the various areas of the boat maximising strength and reducing weight.

Each meant to be the most efficient for their respective areas. The fabrics are stitched, instead of weaved.

Stitched fabrics do not need to bend over or under other fibre and lay flat, making a stronger part.

At Open Waters, it is our mission to make catamaran cruising more exciting and environmentally sustainable. We’ve set out to create a performance cruising catamaran that will be a joy to sail and that will raise the bar in environmental sustainability.

We have developed a unique  design and manufacturing process, selected high performance  materials that enable us to build a boat that uses less materials and is 50% lighter. As a result it is a lot faster and as a result it is able to generate and store the energy needed to propel it electrically for hours and provide enough energy for on board equipment.

We use high performance carbon fibre and a vacuum infusion process to maximize strength and reduce the use of resin and eliminate resin vapour emissions. We use 100% recycled PET foam core wherever possible and we see the opportunity for incremental use of bio-based epoxy and natural fibres in our future.

As we continue to develop our sustainability roadmap for our boats we will perform a full lifecycle analysis to identify other opportunities to minimize our carbon footprint. 

The unique processes and skills we have developed can be applied and licensed to other marine and recreational vehicles businesses.

Simon Angus

Simon Angus P.Eng is a professional mechanical engineer with a background in project management and a passion for sailing.

He spent his university summers travelling around Europe searching for the best combination of wind and waves in addition to teaching both sailing and windsurfing.

After moving to Canada in 2004, Simon bought a Catalina 27 in Kitimat BC and enjoyed sailing in the Douglas channel with his young family. A career move to Alberta paused his sailing career until he found the joys of chartering sailboats in the Caribbean.

After a 20 year career in industrial engineering and project management he decided to make a change and combined his passion and profession to launch Open Waters Design and Manufacturing in 2016.

He designed and manufactured an 18ft canoe and developed a plug and mold and his proprietary vacuum resin infusion process.  After the successful build of the canoe, Simon built a high performance 18ft A class foiling sailing catamaran out of  a Carbon fibre and refined the mold construction and vacuum resin infusion process.

After researching the various build steps, Simon started with CNC shaping of a plug, hand finishing and building the hull molds. He also built the mast, Z foils and the Tee foil rudders. After successful trials in Vancouver BC, Simon then set out on his next ambitious project, to design and build the boat he had dreamt about for years.

A boat that could be shipped anywhere in the world, sail on with his family and returned to Vancouver for summer cruising and would be electrically sustainable.

Simon was introduced to Hal Whitacre in 2019 which started a design relationship that has resulted in the creation of the Open Waters ESC40.

Hal Whitacre

Hal Whitacre, owner of Whitacre yacht design since 1984 and is responsible for some of the fastest and most luxurious boats ever built.

Hal is Open Waters Chief Naval Architect and has worked closely with Simon over the past 2 years to produce the detailed designs that make up the Open Waters ESC 40.

Hal has a distinguished career in Naval Architecture graduating from the University of Michigan with a degree in Naval architecture and Marine Engineering.

Throughout his career he has pushed the boundaries of naval architecture notably designing the Open Class 60 “Imagine”; breaking ground with the largest rig ever put on an Open 60.

Hal also owns and operates Bruce Roberts USA and in that capacity, he has designed over 100 steel and aluminium boat kits in addition to many fiberglass and  wood sail and power boats. Most recently, Hal was the chief Naval Architect for Gunboat Catamarans when they were built in the USA.

Since their move to Europe, Hal has completed 2 gunboat 55’s along with a conversation of a gunboat 55 to a powercat ferry which has recently conducted successful sea trials.

Hal and his wife Tammy split their time between Annapolis, Md and Sister Bay, Wi.  Hal continues to race Lasers during the winter and windsurfs/foilsurfs as much as possible.

We’re hiring!

Join us on our mission to make catamaran cruising more exciting and environmentally sustainable.

Marine Experience Marketeer

You are well versed and have experience in nearly everything digital marketing. You’ve either grown up boating, lived the life of a cruiser, traveler, racer or practice an other lifestyle action sport and know what makes people tick. You’re an avid content creator and storyteller and you can work your magic with the tools of the trade. Lights, camera, sounds, action. 

Join us for a seamless blend of work and play as we test and trial the boat, document BC cruising experiences and host prospective customers from around the world. While a lot of time is spent on the boat you’ll also be responsible for the creation, editing and delivery of all digital content via influencers, communities, social and traditional media and marketing channels. 

If this sounds like you, please email me at [email protected] tell me why you’d love to join us in BC this summer and include a few links to the amazing content you’ve created and shared. I look forward to our chat.

solarboatsUSA.com Your Gateway to Green Boating where Innovation meet sustainability

(619) 997-1288

• e-tech electric drives
• Solliner for rent

Infinity solar boats

Welcome to solar electric boat "solliner".

Explore our Boats

Luxury yachts.

Experience the ultimate renewable energy boating. Perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a romantic evening with your significant other.

Solliner is a solar-powered electric catamaran that offers numerous benefits for eco-friendly boating experiences. It is sustainable, relying on solar energy and producing zero emissions during operation. The catamaran's silent operation enhances the enjoyment of nature and wildlife without disturbing their habitats. It is also highly energy-efficient, eco-friendly watercraft utilizing advanced solar technology and lightweight materials to maximize energy usage and extend the cruising range.

With a reduced number of moving parts, Solliner requires less maintenance and has lower overall maintenance costs. Additionally, it offers a luxurious onboard experience with comfortable seating areas, lounges, and open deck spaces for relaxation and entertainment and zero-emission green boating experience.

The electric propulsion system is easy to operate, making it accessible to a wide range of users. Overall, Solliner combines sustainability, silent operation, energy efficiency, low maintenance, luxury, and ease of use to provide a premium boating experience while minimizing environmental impact for eco-conscious mariners.

SOLLINER with more than standard equipment

Equipment details.

This Solliner 21 is equipped with the following features and its today's price is $70000 delivered to Miami, FL 

4-kW Electric motor with appropriate batteries and charger and 1120W of solar panels

Electric engine lift system

Electric horn

Blue metallic iridescent vinyl wrap hull color

Depth Finder

Extra LED lighting in the cockpit, engine compartment, between hull in the front

Marine grade radio with Bluetooth and two waterproofed speakers

Radar reflector (folding)

2 fishing pole holders

Folding SS swim ladder

Forward LED reflector

Extra table for the fishing rod holder

Solliner is wonderful family boat

White solliner with a standard equipment, solliner with black and white details.

This is a basic electric boat model. It has a 3-kW engine with two 210Ah AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries.

Beautiful and simple contrasting color scheme Price for the standard model at this moment is  $60300 

We have two used Solliners available to own. If interested contact Tad at

 619 997 1288

Discover the Beauty of Infinity Solar Boats Watercraft Collection

Luxurious Solliner 31 Hybrid, Fully autonomous, speed up to 20 m/h

Luxurious  configuration 275000 euro

Solliner 31 commercial configuration 20 passengers and 3 crew. 215000 euro

Wonderful solar-electric eco-friendly catamaran

Meva - classic craft for boats enthusiasts - solar-electric

Site content, meva - solar - electric boat.

Electric boat Meva is a fiberglass boat with a top side finished elegantly with a teak wood.  

Meva can be powered by one or two motors.

It is very easily maneuverable and can run

 15 km/h powered by 4 batteries 210 Ah each.

Length of 20.1' width 6.5' 

High quality finish

Spacious with 360 degree view.

Meva is beautifully finished in high quality materials for upholstery and teak wood interior.

Space for 8 to 10 passengers with folding teak table for elegance and comfort.

Solar power extending batteries life

Under sit space is utilized for storage and two coolers.

This electric boat is powered by four batteries that if not used for 2/3 days can be recharged by this 300 W solar panel that works as a cover for very large storage compartment.

Sun deck of this electric boat can be used buy covering the solar panels. All this beauty for just $50000

Infinity Solar Boats's Fleet in Pictures: Browse Our Boat and Yacht Gallery

Please click DOWNLOAD to see the new catalog of this electric boat.

2018-09-25_katalog_solliner (pdf)

Infinity Solar Boats - authorized dealer for solliner

Elegant black version, solliner ran 3000-km without shore charging in poland, driving this boat is eeeeasssy.

I discovered Solliner boats in 2015 vacationing in Poland.

  I noticed three decent sized boats motoring by with good speed and no noise. Looking closer, I realized that these boats were electric and powered by solar panels.

September 2018, I visited Poland again to purchase a few of the most unique boats to bring to the US. I was fortunate to have several summer-like days and able to drive three different Solliners. It was easy, relaxing, smooth, fast (up to 12 km/h ), quiet and had no exhaust fumes - just the smell of fresh air.  I loved it!

 Solliner boats have a high grade marine electric engines powered by four AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat), marine batteries, 210-Ah each. AGM batteries are the most advanced batteries,  AGM batteries provide 3X longer life span at max power. 

It provides essentially unlimited travel distance since it is constantly charged by 1120-W solar panels

More about Solliner

How to order solliner, where can you see solliner.

The standard version of Solliner costs $60300 delivered to Miami . Discounted prices

 for orders of multiple boats. Pricing to be negotiated.

Call for details 619 997 1286

Solliners are located in Sarasota, Florida  

www.infinitysolarboats.com gets you to Solliner rental site

Videos and pictures from the locations of the Solliner on my:   facebook.com/solarboatsUSA

plus a lot more.

Testimonials

Current deals.

YouTube and Facebook videos and testimonials, from mostly European boat owners and users, can be found by searching ‘Solliner’.  There is an excellent 2016 university presentation by Green Dream Boats representative Bartlomiej Zientek, click here  Facebook page is

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Search YouTube for Solliner

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Bob Clifford reflects on his life that almost wasn't at so many turns as he looks to an electric future

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Ryk Goddard A letter to myself where we invite significant Tasmanians to reflect on their life and their times. And it's a real honour to have Robert Clifford, founder and chairman of INCAT.

Bob Clifford Clearly zero emission ships are the coming technology. I think there's at least a thousand small ferries needed, Sydney Harbour style ferries, and we are negotiating with various customers and that size vessel. But the English Channel size ships, there's another thousand of those ships needed in the near future.

Ryk Goddard Will you have the resources to build that here in Tassie or will you need to start building elsewhere?

Bob Clifford We intend to do it in Tasmania. We are expanding where we are now. We can probably double production where we are in Hobart. We are looking at other sites in Tasmania for doubling up again. So I can see every two or three years virtually doubling the production so that maybe in 10 years time, we have up to 10,000 workers. It's something quite large because really there's just so many ships to build. And we're going down the electric ship market and that looks like it's gonna be a huge market.

Ryk Goddard This is Robert Clifford, a letter to myself.

Bob Clifford If I had not been born in Battery Point and lived in the vicinity for 10 years, I would not have experienced the busy shipyards and slipways. If I had not moved to Hobart's Eastern Shore, I would not have gone to school each day for five years on the Bellerive Ferry. If I had not built a model of the Malcolm Campbell's Bluebird as a schoolboy, I might never have been interested in fast ships. If I had never been asked to go sailing on a Saturday morning, I might never have had a long life interest in sailing. If my job application to the Mercury had been successful, I might never have been taught how to build a business by the small print shop owner that I did work for. If I had never learned to operate a linotype keyboard, I would have found it much easier to use a QWERTY typewriter. If I had not gone crayfishing with my father, I might not have caught the private enterprise bug. If I had not built two ferry boats before the Tasman Bridge was knocked down, I would not have had the income or the experience to build three more ferries before the bridge was rebuilt. If I had never hired a British hovercraft, I might never have been convinced that customers want fast ships. If the USS Enterprise, a nuclear aircraft carrier, had not visited Hobart, I would not have sold 126 barrels of beer to thirsty sailors with all the profits going to build the first catamaran. If I had not sold all the ferries after the Tasman Bridge was restored, I would not have been able to pay off the overdraft. If Wally Tonkin had not ordered the first aluminium fast catamaran to serve Fitzroy Island, we would not have sold five more on the delivery voyage. If Jim Wallace had not ordered the first catamaran for Quicksilver, the Barrier Reef may not have become the million-dollar tourist industry it is today. If I had not experienced an uncomfortable ride back from the Barrier Reef one day, I might never have designed the first wave-piercing catamaran to smooth out the ride. If I had not demonstrated the wave-piercing at the Americas Cup in Perth, Western Australia, then sea containers may not have ordered the Hoversby Great Britain and four more other ships. If Seacat Tasmania had not been built for Bass Strait, then the eight sister ships may not have been built and the 50 more ships that followed. If Hoversby Great Britain had not won the Harris Trophy for the fastest ship across the Atlantic, then the South American company Bookabus would never have heard of it and been a customer for eight more ships. If Hull 50 had not been built to carry trucks, the military would not have been interested in carrying troops and tanks, et cetera. If the first 112-metre catamaran had not been successful, eight more of such ships would not have followed. Now, if electric catamarans are not successful in the marketplace, that would be a shame.

Ryk Goddard Bob Clifford there, a letter to himself. So many sliding doors moments there where your life really could have been so different. What was the job at the Mercury?

Bob Clifford I applied to be a compositor to learn how to set type, et cetera, and I failed to get that job. But where I did learn from a small business, I actually watched the operator of that small business. There were only two employees in the very beginning. And when I left, I was a senior employee with 16 people behind me.

Ryk Goddard And you saw that growth. Did that give you some inspiration?

Bob Clifford That was a big inspiration, yes. I saw a man build a business from nothing, and that was very much an inspiration.

Bob Clifford could have been many things. 

He reflects on his life as part of our regular Letter to Myself series, and reveals how so much can depend on how you react to random events and gives a glimpse at his plans for taking on the electric ferry market in the future.

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Electric ferries are the future for Tasmanian ship building, says Bob Clifford

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Russian Krasnodar submarine passes L-1 qualification mission

Naval news defense may 2021 maritime forces industry technology.

According to information published by Tass on May 18, 2021, the Krasnodar diesel-electric submarine of project 636.3 of the Black Sea fleet passed the L-1 qualification mission, which provides the initial permission for submariners to fulfill the assigned missions, the Defense Ministry said. Follow Navy Recognition on Google News at this link

The Krasnodar submarine is a Russian diesel-electric submarine of project 636.3 Varshavianka built-in 2014. Krasnodar laid down 20 February 2014 at the Admiralty Shipyard, Saint Petersburg (yard No.01673), launched 25 April 2015, commissioned 05 November 2015.

Kilo-class is the NATO reporting name for a type of military diesel-electric submarines that are made in Russia. The original version of these vessels is designated in Russia Project 877 "Paltus" (Turbot). There is also a more advanced version, which is designated in the west Improved Kilo and in Russia as Project 06363. Nicknamed the “Black Hole” submarine by the U.S. Navy, the Improved Kilos are extremely quiet.

The ships are powered by two diesel generators and an electric drive, giving them enough power to make ten knots at the surface and seventeen knots underwater. They are not fast submarines. They have a range of six thousand to 7500 nautical miles. The ship has a rubbery anechoic coating to deaden noise emanating from the submarine, which occasionally gives the submarines a blocky appearance noticeable in photographs. The sensor suite consists of the MGK-400 Rubikon (Shark Gill) low-frequency active and passive radar suite with a passive hull array. It also has an MG519 Mouse Roar high-frequency radar for target classification and mine avoidance. For simple surface navigation and search the Kilos are equipped with the MRK-50 Albatros radar.

Submarines have six torpedo tubes of standard 533-millimeter diameter and were originally configured to carry homing torpedoes and eighteen SS-N-15A Starfish antisubmarine missiles. On the Improved Kilos, two of the torpedo tubes are capable of firing wire-guided torpedoes. One major improvement of Project 06363 is the ability to launch Kalibr cruise missiles. Kalibr is a versatile class of missiles with land-attack, antiship, and antisubmarine warfare versions.

© Copyright 2021 TASS Navy Recognition. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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A taste of Krasnodar cuppa

Krasnodar's are the oldest tea plants in Russia, and the older the plant, the better the tea it produces. Source: Mikhail Mordasov / RIA Novosti

Guests to the Winter Olympics are probably aware of the region’s unique cuisine, given Sochi’s long history as a port and its proximity to Georgia. But less well known is the area’s unique Krasnodar tea blend. This 150-year-old tea possesses strong healing properties, and its exquisite aroma resembles that of China's elite Lansing teas.


In the 18th century, the Russian and British empires together held a monopoly on the global tea trade. At the time, there were two ways to get to China, the homeland of tea. The sea trade routes passed through British-controlled Nanking, while the overland route, through Kyakhta, led to Russia. Russian tea merchants did not fear competition from the British.

They considered the tea that arrived in Russia far superior to that the British consumed because of the form of transportation. The heat and humidity of the southern seas, which tea clippers would take weeks to cross, ruined the delicate tea leaves.

By contrast, overland transportation only improved tea's qualities. True connoisseurs would pay a higher price for products offered by the Russian importers.


When the British started cultivating tea in India and Ceylon (Sri Lanka), the Russians, too, decided to expand their production base. The first attempts to acclimatize tea plants in what was then the southern fringe of the Russian Empire, in Georgia and Azerbaijan, were made in the 19th century.

The experiment proved a success: the Russian tea plantations yielded their first crops in the early 20th century, although the quality of the local tea blends left much to be desired. The local soils were too inferior to hope for anything better. The only advantage of the Georgian and Azeri teas was their relative cheapness.


Then Judas Koshman entered the scene. A mysterious figure whose early life remains largely unknown, Koshman is believed to have come from a small Jewish settlement in Ukraine to earn his keep working tea plantations in Georgia. 
In the early 20th century, when he was already 60 years old, Koshman found himself in the tiny mountainous settlement of Solokhaul near Sochi.

He used the money saved from working on a tea plantation in Georgia to buy a small plot of land. Koshman and his family started acclimatizing tea plants brought from Georgia. Koshman’s neighbours questioned his endeavour.

In the 1870s, agriculturists had shown that the North Caucasus was too cold for growing tea.

However, it took the tea plants introduced from Georgia just four years to take root to such an extent that they no longer needed to be wrapped for the winter, even though temperatures in Solokhaul may drop to 10 degrees Farenheit in January.

Ten years later, in 1913, the Koshmans celebrated their first yield of tea. What later became known as the Krasnodar tea blend (after the name of the region – Krasnodar Territory) has the sweetness, beautiful dark-amber tint and flowery aroma of the best Chinese Lansing teas.

The harsh North Caucasus climate may affect the size of the crop, but it is thanks to the climate that the local tea contains more healthful substances than the Chinese equivalents.


Recognition did not come easily to Koshman. In his modest house, which has been turned into a museum, there is a vast collection of non-committal replies from the Russian Academy of Sciences: St. Petersburg scholars dismissed Koshman's reports on the Krasnodar tea blend as hoaxes, while the Georgian tea lobby set the police on their potential rival.

Koshman's wife had to bail him out of prison at one point. It was not until the Soviet era, when Koshman was already over 70, that he received a gold medal at an agricultural exhibition.


The hand-picked Koshman House tea is a truly exclusive product. Koshman's are the oldest tea plants in Russia, and the older the plant, the better the tea it produces. Koshman's teas eventually spread across the mountainous area of greater Sochi in the 20th century.

Krasnodar teas were on sale in the Soviet era, but they did not enjoy any particular popularity because the tea leaves were picked mechanically, robbing the tea of its unique properties.

Even during Perestroika, when the once-gigantic Koshman plantation fell into decay, the Krasnodar tea blend retained its reputation as a unique hand-picked product, and continued to be manufactured in small batches.

It remained the northernmost tea in the world until 2012, when the UK gathered its first locally grown crops.

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• Tue. Mar 19th, 2024

SeaWaves Magazine

Best Source of Naval News Since 1995

Unable to Return to Black Sea Fleet Submarine Krasnodar Heads to Kronstadt

By SeaWaves Magazine

Reprinted from TASS

The diesel-electric submarine of the Black Sea Fleet “Krasnodar” of project 636.3 (code “Varshavyanka”) will go to the Baltic, leaving the permanent operational formation of the Russian Navy in the Mediterranean Sea. An informed source reported this.

The diesel-electric submarine “Krasnodar” will make an inter-fleet transition to the Baltic, where it will undergo scheduled repairs at the Kronstadt Marine Plant. At the moment, another Varshavyanka from the Black Sea Fleet, the Novorossiysk, is at the enterprise; its repairs are planned to be completed in April 2024. “Krasnodar” has already undergone scheduled repairs in Kronstadt, this was in 2020.

It is expected that Krasnodar will soon leave the permanent operational formation of the Russian Navy in the Mediterranean Sea and set off on an inter-fleet transition to the Baltic. At the end of November, planned repairs of the ship will begin at the Kronstadt Marine Plant

The diesel-electric submarine “Krasnodar” is the fourth “Varshavyanka” built at the Admiralty Shipyards in the interests of the Black Sea Fleet. Laid down on February 20, 2014, launched on April 25, 2015. Transferred to the Russian Navy on November 5, 2015, the inter-naval transition from the Baltic to the Black Sea was completed in April 2017.

Surface displacement 2350 tons, underwater 3950 tons. Length 73.8 meters, beam 9.9 meters, draft 6.2 meters. Surface speed 17 knots, underwater 20 knots. Working depth of immersion is 240 meters, maximum 300 meters. Sailing autonomy is 45 days. Crew 52 people. Main armament: six 533-mm torpedo tubes, mines and Caliber cruise missiles.

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