Category Archives: Charter Types

Charging the Electric Boating Revolution

Electric boating has gained momentum as the world envisions a cleaner and greener future.  At Boatbookings, we have advocated for this electric revolution within our greener crewed charter catamaran offerings.

However, the success of electric boating relies heavily on the availability of electric charging infrastructure in marinas. As electric boats become more popular, is the current global marina infrastructure prepared for the influx of these greener boats? 

Here, we explore the growing need for electric charging infrastructure in marinas and the changes to meet this demand. 

The Infrastructure

Electric boats, like electric cars, rely on charging infrastructure to keep them powered up.

Rising Demand for Charging Stations.

The increasing number of electric boats on the water means demand for charging stations has surged. There is now a need for more convenient places to top up electric boat’s power reserves. 

Encouraging Investment.

The increased demand has spurred both marinas and port authorities to invest in developing more electric charging infrastructure. These investments aim to make electric boating more accessible to all. 

Technological Innovation.

To meet the growing need, there are plenty of companies investing in the development of more efficient charging technologies. This includes creating faster charging options, smart charging systems that optimise energy use and wireless charging solutions. These innovations are essential as the electric boat market continues to expand. One company is Aqua superPower, integrating their charging systems in the US, UK and Italy, enabling users to charge all electric boat brands. They have partnered with MDL marina group, the first UK marina group to offer charging. 

The Challenges

Like with all development and change, there are some hurdles that the boating sector is facing when it comes to supplying this infrastructure for the transition to electric boating. The main concern is the cost of developing and maintaining this new infrastructure, resulting in some resistance to change. 

The Marinas of the Future 

Marinas consistently have to adapt to meet the changing needs of boaters. We are seeing new smart marina management systems put in place to optimize energy usage. Many marinas are exploring and investing in research and development for renewable energy sources to enhance sustainability credentials further. Looking ahead, there will need to be increased collaboration to establish these networks and to promote the growth of electric boating. 

As more infrastructure is developed, it gives more confidence for owners to make the switch from traditional to electric. A vital transition for reducing emissions and promoting more greener practices. Contact Boatbookings today to find out about our greener and electric crewed charter catamarans.  

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Charter Guest 101: How to be a More Eco-Conscious Guest

Being a charter guest onboard a luxury charter catamaran is an incredible experience, being able to cruise the world’s oceans while being looked after by a professional crew with all the amenities. But, today, charter guests must consider the impact that boating is having on the environment. 

This environmental impact of yachts can no longer be ignored, and at Boatbookings, we advocate for a more sustainable boating industry, choosing to work with yachts that implement sustainable initiatives into the build process and operations. 

Aside from choosing from one of our greener crewed charter catamarans, there are plenty of other ways to ensure you are a better, more eco-conscious and responsible charter guest. 

Here are some tips on how to enjoy your yacht charter while minimizing your impact: 

Better Preferences

Crews ensure they always go above and beyond when running a yacht charter, and this extends to ensuring guests have what they ask for onboard a crewed charter catamaran. When filling out a preference sheet, there are a few things to consider to have a greener charter. Minimize plastic waste by drinking from refillable bottles, and utilizing the onboard water filtration system instead of requesting branded water bottles. Toiletries are another factor to consider; you can request that there be reef-friendly and environmentally safe toiletries onboard.

When it comes to food, the chefs are heavily involved in preferences. If guests request something, they will be sure to fly it in, which contributes significantly to the yacht’s carbon footprint. Be sure to request locally sourced and seasonal menus when onboard. Not only does this reduce the carbon footprint, but it also allows you to savor the freshest produce and local specialities. 

Respect the Underwater World 

Getting underwater is a big part of a yacht charter, especially in tropical locations where the underwater world is pristine, such as Tahiti, the BVIs, and the Bahamas! To preserve these ecosystems, minimize your disruption when partaking in any watersport. Avoid feeding or touching marine life, and keep a safe distance when swimming.

Reduce Consumption 

While crewed catamarans have an array of luxury amenities and facilities, this doesn’t mean that there needs to be excessive use of them. Guests can easily conserve energy and resources by switching things off when not in use. This reduction in consumption can also help reduce the yacht’s carbon footprint. You should also always embrace vacation mode and cruise at a leisurely pace; not only does this allow you to take in the destination better, but a slower cruising speed further reduces emissions. 

Support Local 

Practicing responsible sailing doesn’t just stop on the ocean. When you step ashore, it is important to support the local economy. If you go on excursions ashore, consult the crew to ensure you participate in ones that benefit the community. There are always plenty of organizations and initiatives you can get involved with ashore that are helping minimize environmental impact, such as beach clean-ups. 

Listen to Your Crew 

The yacht crew onboard our charter catamaran ensure that the boats are run extremely safely to adhere to all rules and regulations, including the environmental aspect. The crew will ensure you recognize the environmental impact that the yacht and operations will have and the correct waste disposal practices you can do while onboard. 

Spread Awareness

Never hesitate to ask the crew about any small changes you can make to minimize your impact onboard. You can inspire positive change throughout the charter community by spreading awareness about eco-friendly swaps. 

Every small change contributes to a greener future for boating. It is a collaborative effort, and as guests, you can play a vital role in preserving and protecting our oceans. Contact the Boatbookings team today to find out which greener crewed charter catamaran you can book for your next vacation!

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How to Have a More Sustainable Caribbean Yacht Charter

We are approaching one of our favorite times of the year – the Caribbean boating season! At Boatbookings, we love cruising the Caribbean, from the azure waters and abundant marine life to pristine beaches. But, like the rest of our planet, the islands are under threat.

The Caribbean is a fragile ecosystem suffering under the various challenges climate change brings. The Caribbean faces many threats, from rising sea levels and increasingly severe weather to ocean acidification. There are so many things we can do to leave less of an impact on our crewed charter catamarans.

Here are some ways you can help minimize your impact this Caribbean season:

Choose a Greener Yacht

The first step is to choose a more eco-friendly yacht from our greener crewed charter catamaran selection. At Boatbookings, we showcase more sustainable boats and look at incorporating catamaran builds, such as Sunreef and Silent Yachts, that champion sustainability. Crewed catamarans are better for our oceans and boast more advantages, such as better efficiency, shallow draft, expansive living areas, and comfortable cruising. The recently launched Sol is perfect for a greener Caribbean charter in the BVIs. This Sunreef 80 power eco has all the luxury facilities and amenities while having sustainability at the core, including vegan interiors and the solar and battery tech found within this Eco-Catamaran range.

An Eco-Conscious Itinerary 

There are a few factors that can help minimize your impact by choosing a more eco-conscious itinerary for a Caribbean charter. Overcrowding can have a negative impact on an ecosystem, so cruising destinations and anchorages that are less crowded will help. Opting for quieter spots also makes for a better experience. There are plenty of natural reserves and marine parks in the Caribbean, especially within the Bahamas, such as Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park. Visiting these on your charter means you will help support the conservation efforts by abiding by the strict conservation regulations to protect the area.

Better Onboard Practices 

While the crew onboard will already implement sustainable practices, it is important that you are aware of these. The main culprit in the Caribbean is the use of single-use plastic, but most boats now have water filtration systems onboard so that you can reduce any plastic water bottles needed. While in the Caribbean, you will undoubtedly be in the water a lot, so it is important to wear reef-friendly suncream to protect from the toxicity of regular suncream when exploring reefs and marine life. Another way to ensure a greener charter is through the menus you enjoy; ask your chef to create menus that are prioritized with local and seasonal ingredients in mind, helping reduce the carbon footprint of your charter. Always look for opportunities within the Caribbean to incorporate responsibly sourced seafood and avoid overfished species, such as parrotfish that have been overfished in the Caribbean for decades. 

Support Conservation Efforts 

As well as choosing to visit marine parks and natural reserves while following the regulations as charter guests, you can also support by donating to local conservation organizations or participating in beach cleanups. By aligning your charter experience with minimizing your impact, you are contributing to the long-term health of our oceans. Before your charter, you can also use our carbon offsetting calculator.

Charter the Caribbean Today! 

These are just some steps you can take to ensure the Caribbean’s natural beauty lasts for generations to come. Contact the Boatbookings team to book a greener crewed charter catamaran to enjoy the Caribbean this coming season. 

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Embrace Electric: Reasons Why You Should Choose An Electric Boat

The electric boat revolution is well underway in the boating industry, as they are rapidly emerging as the smarter and more environmentally responsible choice for our crewed charter catamarans.

At Boatbookings, we champion the more sustainable choice for our clients. If you are thinking about your next yacht charter, here are some of our top reasons why you should consider choosing electric: 

A Lighter Footprint

When you charter an electric yacht, your journey will have a significantly reduced carbon footprint. Unlike traditional boats that rely on fossil fuels, electric ones are cleaner and greener. One of the most significant benefits of electric boats is that the propulsion is emission-free, meaning harmful substances are not released into the atmosphere. Alongside the lack of emissions, electric boats also eliminate any water pollution. Most of the fuel and oil pollution is caused by everyday oil leaks, refueling, and emissions – this can cause severe harm to marine life. Electric boats do not require fuel and very little oil, so they dramatically reduce water pollution. 

2. Enjoy Nature 

Electric propulsion is much quieter than conventional engines, making the disturbance to wildlife and environments minimal. With rumbling engine noises replaced by virtually silent propulsion systems, you can immerse yourself in nature better and truly enjoy your crewed charter catamaran experience. The aptly named Silent Yachts showcase this benefit of noiseless cruising. 

3. Cutting-Edge Designs 

Electric boats not only harness greener credentials but are also aesthetically and functionally on the leading edge. Newly announced yachts are generally at the forefront of yacht design, blending modernity with a strong emphasis on sustainability. Form and function are certainly not compromised. Sunreef Yachts are one example of this prioritizing sustainability without sacrificing style. The Polish shipyard uses engineering technologies to create lightweight and efficient structures with their patented solar technology while incorporating a range of eco-conscious interiors. 

4. Supporting the shift

Supporting the new electric yachts makes great sense for the future. Regulations are becoming stricter, so going electric will ensure you are “ahead of the curve”. By chartering an electric yacht, you are challenging the conventional norms and helping set new standards for responsible boating. As the demand for electric yachts grows, it will further drive innovation and expand options for the future. 

These are just a handful of reasons why electric boats have advantages over traditional diesel yachts. Deciding to charter an electric yacht is about committing to a more sustainable future for the boating industry. As you plan what crewed charter catamaran you will charter next, consider the impact your choice will have and contact the Boatbookings team to talk about our greener crewed charter catamarans and electric options worldwide. 

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Tie-up responsibly: How are marinas facilitating the green revolution?

Whether you are on a bareboat charter catamaran or a crewed charter catamaran, alongside fantastic anchorages, you will likely also want to tie up in a marina or two on your travels. 

But marinas significantly impact the environment. They cater to hundreds of boats coming and going, which can have various negative impacts. Firstly this movement can disrupt the local ecosystem if not managed appropriately, and visitors discharge multiple wastes and trash. Marinas are beginning to recognize that they can harm the environment without protocols and mindful practices in place, with now many keen to be greener. 

The two leading global initiatives are the Clean Marinas Program and The Blue Flag award, both setting standards for better eco-awareness and environmental preservation. 

At Boatbookings, we love hearing about innovative marina designs and sustainable practices being implemented. We take a look at some marinas around the world and how they are becoming greener: 

Rybovich, West Plam Beach

The Florida-based Rybovich marina provides berths for boats up to 100m. They meet the stringent criteria to gain its ‘clean marina’ status through various procedures. The comprehensive recycling center and drainage system that captures almost all the water in the shipyard, which is then filtered and reused both contribute to this. The marina was one of the first partners supporting the Water Revolution Foundation, working to enhance the sustainability credentials of the boating industry. Rybovich is part of the Safe Harbour marina group, which recently partnered with X-Shore to allow and increase easier access to fully electric boats in the USA. 

Blue Haven, Turks & Caicos

Recently reopened this year, the Blue Haven marina in Turks & Caicos Islands in the Caribbean has improved its green agenda while gaining the acclaimed Blue Flag award. The marina has increased ecological awareness and conservation commitments by utilizing eco-friendly cleaning and products at the facilities. Sustainable materials and renewable energy are also used throughout. It is part of the IGY group, which in 2021 also pledged to reduce and offset its carbon footprint across its network, helping future-proof its portfolio. 

Port Vauban, France 

Not only does the largest marina in Europe, Port Vauban in Antibes, have a Blue Flag award, but it was also the first in Alpes Maritime to join the French charter of the environment, striving for best practices in eco-preservation. The marina has gradually replaced fossil-fuel-powered vehicles with a fleet of electric golf carts and bikes. They also have robots collecting floating waste at various port locations and an extensive recycling system. 

Flisvos Marina, Greece

Flisvos Marina in Athens won the ‘Smart and Sustainable marina award, 2022’ at the international competition at the Monaco Yacht Club. The marina uses electricity from 100% renewable sources, keeps water quality at swimming level, and has many environmental campaigns. They also facilitate 16 recycling streams and use environmentally friendly building materials within its walls. Flisvos is part of the D Marin group, recognized for its unwavering commitment to ESG and environmental concerns. 

These are just some positive changes we have seen from innovative cleaning solutions, responsible waste channels, renewable energy, and environmental awareness. At Boatbookings, we hope these initiatives will be rolled out in all marinas soon. Contact us today to learn more about the greener catamaran charters we offer and what marinas you can visit! 

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