Our Friends Electric
The electric revolution that has transformed the automotive industry is continuing to make waves in the marine sector, with electric-powered boats rapidly gaining traction among superyacht owners
Once a niche concept, electric boating is now a serious contender in the luxury and performance markets, thanks to significant advances in battery technology, increased regulatory pressure on emissions and growing environmental awareness amongst a new demographic of boaters and owners. With an expanding range of electric tenders, chase boats and even hybrid yachts entering the market, the question is no longer if electric boats will become a mainstay, but rather how soon.
Market Growth and Momentum
The global electric boat market is experiencing exponential growth, driven by both technological advancements and shifting consumer preferences. The industry, which was valued at approximately $6 billion in 2024, is projected to surpass $12 billion by the end of the decade, according to the IMARC Group report. This surge is fuelled by increasing investments from established yacht builders, VCs and newcomers alike, all eager to capitalise on the demand for silent, efficient and eco-friendly vessels.
While the early adopters of electric boats were primarily sustainability- conscious owners, the market has broadened significantly. Today, electric propulsion is being embraced not just for its green credentials but also for its performance characteristics areas such as whisper-quiet operation, instant torque delivery and minimal maintenance requirements. This growth is particularly strong in Europe and North America, where environmental regulations and electrification incentives are driving adoption.
One of the key drivers behind the rapid evolution of electric boats is the advancement of marine battery technology. Lithium-ion batteries have become the industry standard, but next-generation solid-state batteries and high-energy-density alternatives are on the horizon, promising longer ranges, faster charging and even greater safety. Many incumbent companies are pushing the boundaries, developing power systems that rival traditional internal combustion engines in both endurance and efficiency.
Charging infrastructure is also evolving, with fast-charging networks being established in key yachting destinations. Aqua superPower, for instance, is rolling out a global network of high-speed marine charging stations, making electric propulsion more viable for tenders and day boats.
For superyacht owners and their crew, the advantages of electric boats go far beyond their environmental impact. The silent operation of electric propulsion provides an unmatched level of serenity, allowing guests to explore pristine waters without the usual hum of a combustion engine. Instant torque delivery also ensures superior handling and acceleration, enhancing both performance and manoeuvrability, ideal for luxury tenders and high-speed chase boats.
From a maintenance perspective, electric propulsion systems offer significant advantages. With fewer moving parts compared to traditional diesel or gasoline engines, electric boats require far less upkeep, reducing both operational downtime and long-term costs. Furthermore, the elimination of fuel storage and exhaust systems simplifies onboard logistics and improves safety.
As regulations tighten and the push for sustainability intensifies, electric boats are no longer just an alternative – they will move to become a preferred choice for some. With rapid advancements in battery technology, expanding charging networks and an increasing variety of high-performance electric models available, the future of electric boating is undeniably bright. For superyacht owners, investing in an electric tender or chase boat is not just a statement of environmental responsibility, it’s a move towards greater efficiency, reduced costs and an enhanced onboard experience. The age of electric yachting is here, and it’s ready to set sail.
LUMEN YACHTS
Born from Dutch craftsmanship and driven by innovation, LUMEN Yachts is setting a new course in electric boating. At the heart of their fleet is the LUMEN E10: a 10 meter all-electric day cruiser that merges cutting-edge technology with refined, minimalistic design by Mulder Naval Architects. Powered by advanced batteries and a custom semi- glider hull, the LUMEN E10 delivers up to 160 km of range – two to three times more than conventional electric yachts. It’s built for those who want to explore further, silently and sustainably. From joystick docking and steer-by-wire control to Esthec decking and a Bowers & Wilkins sound system, every element of the E10 blends intuitive technology with pure comfort. Whether you’re cruising a lake, canal, or coastline, the E10 makes every journey effortless. Hand-built in the Netherlands by JR Yachts, the LUMEN E10 embodies silent power, honest design and a deep connection to the water. With customisable finishes and intelligent systems, it’s more than a boat – it’s a new way of being at sea. LUMEN is for a new generation of boaters: valuing performance, design and serenity. Clean, quiet and remarkably capable.
www.lumenyachts.com
DESIGNBOATS SWITZERLAND
The Tender 11 is a boat that stands out with its exceptional handling, easy manoeuvrability and innovative, functional design details. Carefully selected high-quality materials and fittings, along with numerous customisation options, make this tender the ideal ‘Owner’s Tender’ – perfect for a megayacht or a high-end leisure motorboat. By utilising advanced high-tech materials and a lightweight yet powerful propulsion system, this boat achieves outstanding efficiency in its class. The open, spacious deck areas designed for maximum comfort and equipped with luxurious cushions, provide ample space for relaxation and enjoyment. The Tender 11 is also engineered for high-speed performance and can handle rough waters with ease. The Tender 11 can be configured with different deck layouts, offering flexible solutions such as a convertible sunbed. Additionally, a retractable tender roof can be integrated, allowing for seamless storage within a megayacht tender garage. The optimised weight and high structural rigidity of the hull-deck construction are achieved through an innovative inhouse vacuum infusion process. This advanced composite construction features high-quality structural foam cores with deck laminates made from glass-fibre-reinforced epoxy resin. For the decking, premium, low-maintenance Esthec material is used, which can be customised according to individual design preferences.
www.designboats.ch
RAND BOATS
Delivering the ultimate blend of modern Scandinavian design and raw performance, the RAND Leisure 28 is an impeccably stylish vessel for exhilaration and relaxation that has become one of the most popular and iconic luxury designer boats for motorboat connoisseurs. The Leisure 28 provides an incredibly spacious sense of luxury in an effortlessly functional layout that includes a large triple aft sun lounge, expandable oversize u-sofa, full kitchen, private enclosed toilet and luxury queen bed cabin in the lower deck. Naturally, sun protection options including biminis, shade-sails and T-Tops which are also available across the range. Excelling in its wide array of seating options and social space, the Leisure 28 offers an overwhelming amount of space aboard, providing maximum comfort and freedom to move around without compromising on the iconic and timeless modern design. The Leisure 28’s ergonomically designed steering console offers intuitive and sophisticated functionality, manoeuvring with fun and confidence-inspiring steering while remaining stable and safe in all conditions. The RAND Leisure 28 embodies the demands of modern powerboat enthusiasts without compromising on style, luxury or the sustainable and environmental considerations of the world.
www.randboats.com
ARC BOATS
Arc is a venture-backed startup on a mission to electrify the marine industry. Designing, manufacturing and distributing high- performance, fully electric boats from their HQ in Los Angeles, CA. Arc designs and builds its boats in-house, including its battery packs, powertrain systems, thermal control systems and software. In just two years, the team of former rocket engineers and EV experts set new industry standards with the sold-out Arc One. And, that was just the beginning. In February 2024, they announced the first mass-market model, the Arc Sport – 500hp, 226kWh with zero emissions. The Arc Sport blends aerospace engineering, EV technology and genius software for a new way of boating. Bonus elements include; customisable ballast and wake shaping technology to throw the perfect wave for every type of rider. No engine – means a whole lot more storage and with advanced software powering every aspect of the experience, modern user interfaces, and over-the-air updates, the ARC just gets better over time.
www.arcboats.com
ELECTRIC ELEGANCE ITALIA
From the initial vision to completing the design of the Electric Elegance, the driving force was always the desire to make a difference. To find an alternative to the combustion motor yachts crowding the bays of the Sardinian coastline, (and elsewhere) to, at the very least marginally lessen the pollution of these beautiful waters. In the process of doing so, inspire a new, modern and elegant direction for global yachting. As part to the objective the development was completed with the aim to fill what the team perceived as a void in the marketplace by creating and delivering the complete, pure yachting experience with more of everything essential from performance/autonomy to comfort with elegance well beyond anything currently available in the category. A yacht absolutely non-intrusive to the environment (and those enjoying the area) allowing those onboard the EE38 a full, no compromise yachting experience of elegance, performance and comfort in one stylish package.
www.electricelegance38.com
CANDELA
The latest version of Candela’s foiling electric C-8 features interior details designed in collaboration with automaker Polestar, which also supplies the batteries for the vessel. With a range of 57 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 22 knots, the C-8 is built for quiet, smooth rides. DC fast charging of up to 135 kW allows charging from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes, enabling long electric voyages. In fact, the C-8 has set several records for electric vessels, including a round trip from Stockholm, Sweden to Finland in a single day. It has also proven its endurance in a 24-hour race, during which the C-8 covered 421 miles. Powered by Candela’s own C-POD, an electric pod motor that requires no servicing or oil filter changes, the C-8 delivers an exceptionally silent ride – so silent, in fact, that Swiss authorities have deemed it the quietest production boat on the market. The C-8 features a front cabin that sleeps three, a marine head and a cockpit that seats up to six guests and the driver. The Polestar Edition includes upholstery inspired by Polestar’s prototype cars, distinctive ‘golden’ struts, and a unique grey hull and deck colour.
www.candela.com
