Category Archives: Environmentally Friendly Yachts

Fueling the Future: What is Best for the Boating Industry?

The boating industry has been increasing its focus on sustainability and reducing its environmental impact for some time now. As concerns over climate change and fossil fuel depletion mount, many boat builders are setting their sights on utilizing alternative fuels in the future. 

At Boatbookings, we consistently work to minimize our impact on the oceans and always offer our clients greener crewed catamaran options. 

With the advancements in technology and a growing demand for greener solutions, a range of alternative fuel options are emerging as viable contenders for the future of boating. We take a look at them here: 

Electric 

Electric propulsion systems, powered by advanced battery technologies, have become more prevalent in today’s boats. These systems eliminate the need for traditional combustion engines, significantly reducing carbon emissions and noise pollution. While there are still challenges in terms of range and charging infrastructure, battery technology is constantly improving, and today, charging within the marina is increasing, making this a better option. 

Biofuels 

A promising alternative is biofuel, derived from renewable sources such as plant materials and agricultural waste. One example being used in boating is Hydotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). The benefit of this fuel is that it can be placed within existing diesel engines and, therefore, can be used for the existing fleet as it can be mixed with diesel and has been said to cut carbon emissions by 90%. At the moment, the availability of this fuel remains limited, and therefore, it is not accessible to many boats, but this is improving with demand. 

Hydrogen 

Hydrogen can be used in combustion engines and fuel cells and has been said to be the most sustainable. Therefore, hydrogen is one of the central elements of the energy transition. However, there are challenges for the boating industry. The use of hydrogen presents issues such as the large amount of volume to store and the amount of energy required from renewable sources to produce it.

Methanol 

This has been one of the leading alternative fuel options, and while not yet available for yachts, it is the most likely for the next generation of commercial shipping. However, storing methanol onboard requires much more volume, resulting in less usable space. As an alternative, this fuel can also be used via fuel cells to generate electric power. Lurssen has long been working with alternative fuel technology. They developed fuel cell propulsion technology using hydrogen, reformed from methanol.

Hybrid 

Hybrid diesel-electric engines are becoming extremely popular in boating. This alternative results in higher efficiency, lower fuel consumption, and fewer emissions. It also allows the integration of different energy sources, such as hydro generation and solar. Hybrids also will enable the mixing of mechanical propulsion with electrical propulsion. 

Solar

Solar energy has become a valuable addition to energy and is an excellent use of natural energy. Silent Yachts and Sunreef catamaran builders facilitate solar panels within their catamaran design. While solar energy is a good addition and valuable in the energy mix for hybrids, more is needed to fuel larger yachts. 

As the boating industry continues to pursue more sustainable alternatives, each fuel option has its unique set of pros and cons. Factors such as price, availability, storage requirements, safety considerations, and viability must be evaluated to determine the best option. 

The discussion is endless. At Boatbookings, we are committed to staying on top of the alternatives and implementing more ways to reduce our impact. To find out more about chartering one of our greener crewed catamarans, contact a member of the Boatbookings team today. 

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Top 6 Tips To Navigate a Responsible Catamaran Charter 

At Boatbookings, our catamaran charters have become increasingly popular. It is more important than ever to be mindful of our environmental impact while enjoying a crewed catamaran charter. 

Catamarans are an excellent choice for a more sustainable charter due to their energy-efficient design and stability. But there is more you can do than simply choosing a catamaran. 

Here, we have put together additional steps to help reduce your impact when on a yacht charter vacation: 

1. Choose Environmentally-Protected Destinations

When planning your charter route, favor areas with robust environmental protections and designated marine parks. These locations will have regulations to preserve coral reefs, marine life, and surrounding waters. Your charter crew can guide you on the best practices for these areas onboard. There are plenty of marine parks in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Southeast Asia working to protect our oceans. 

2. Be Clear on your Preference Sheet 

Before you step foot onboard, you will have a preference sheet. Use this as an opportunity to specify your interests in more sustainable options. Request locally sourced produce, sustainable suppliers, eco-friendly cleaning products, toiletries, and minimal packaging. You can also ask to avoid single-use plastic as much as possible onboard. 

3. Reduce Energy Consumption 

Thanks to their low-drag hulls, catamarans are exceptionally fuel-efficient, but there are many other ways to conserve energy onboard during your vacation. You can easily limit the electricity demands by using outdoor lighting sparingly, turning off lights, only running the air conditioning when necessary, and unplugging devices when not in use. 

4. Respect Marine Life 

Always ensure you adhere to responsible wildlife viewing practices when enjoying a crewed charter catamaran. These practices include keeping your distance and avoiding loud noises or sudden movements. Never feed, touch, or chase any wildlife you encounter on the water. 

5. Eco-Friendly Playtime

Water toys are essential to any yacht charter but can also negatively impact our oceans. Be sure to use the more eco-friendly options. Hydrofoils and electric toys are a great alternative as they do not contribute to air pollution due to the battery-powered operation. There are also plenty of toys that are human-powered and just as fun to explore bays and islands, such as windsurfing, kayaking, and paddle boarding. 

6. Offset your Carbon 

While catamarans are already a lower-impact way to charter, you can take it further by offsetting your carbon emissions. With our carbon offset calculator, you can determine your footprint. We use information about the boat and itinerary to predict and measure emissions and then calculate the carbon credits needed to purchase to offset. We ensure it is done correctly through our work with Climate Care, funding UN-approved projects. 

We offer various options for greener charter catamarans. Contact a member of the Boatbookings team today to discuss booking one of these charter catamarans ensuring you have less impact on your next yacht charter vacation.

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How can Transparent Reporting Revolutionize the Boating Industry?

The tide is turning on environmental responsibility and reporting within the boating industry.

At Boatbookings, we have seen various greener developments and positive change showcased through technological and mindset shifts in recent years. But, industry stakeholders must measure and track progress with non-financial and transparent reporting to continue on this better path. 

What is Sustainability Reporting? 

Sustainability reporting is a form of non-financial reporting that enables stakeholders to measure and track their progress toward goals on various parameters. These include environmental, social, and governance metrics (ESG). 

Shipyards and builders have made a concerted effort over the past few years to do so, with more releasing reports. Many yachting companies have also appointed sustainability and ESG officers to focus on the matter to develop more sustainable practices. The Beneteau Group is one example showcased by its certified environmental policy and a stronger focus on transparency within its Sustainability Performance Report. 

Quite simply, the industry cannot change what it doesn’t measure; therefore, sustainability reporting is vital. Here are some of the reasons why we believe there should be increased reporting across the industry: 

Better Accountability 

The industry and the wider world cannot afford to disregard the environmental consequences of our actions. This awareness is leading to greater calls for accountability. All stakeholders within the industry are facing increasing pressure to account for environmental impact, and the need for transparent reporting is evident. Reporting allows for better accountability and creates a system enabling stakeholders to measure, track, and communicate sustainability efforts. Our carbon emissions calculator is one way we help facilitate accountability. 

Greener Decisions 

The more data there is, the more it enables clients and stakeholders to make better, informed choices. With an increased demand for greener options, transparent reporting allows choices to be made that align with a greener ethos and responsibility. We have seen increased demand for our greener crewed charter catamarans and consistently strive to keep adding better options to our fleet.

Setting a Better Benchmark

Reporting promotes healthy competition across the whole industry. When companies share sustainability efforts and achievements, they set a benchmark for others to aspire to. This creates a positive cycle of continuous improvement and enables others to see what level their practices should reach.

Regulation On The Horizon 

The global market is already shifting toward a more sustainable future. Boating companies that proactively embrace sustainability reporting will be better prepared to adapt to these changing market dynamics. Financial companies are already beginning to pull back on lending to those if the assets do not show evidence of sustainability. The market will slowly become a place where eco-consciousness and responsible practices are not just preferred but expected by clients and regulators. Transparent reporting can help companies stay compliant with the increasing regulations that will begin to appear. 

Meeting the Demand 

More and more clients are conscious of their environmental impact, seeking eco-friendly and greener chartering for responsible boating. Reporting enables companies to demonstrate their commitment to principles. This ensures that clients can select the companies that align with their values, driving more demand for these greener options. 

By openly sharing data, initiatives, and progress, companies within the boating industry can contribute to the global effort while positioning themselves as responsible and forward-thinking leaders. 

Contact one of the Boatbookings team today to discuss how we are working to improve our impact and to enquire about one of our greener crewed charter catamarans.

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Top 8 Reasons Why We Love Sailing Catamarans

As the International Day of Love approaches tomorrow, we turn to our love for the oceans and sailing. At Boatbookings, we share some of the many reasons why our team loves sailing catamarans.

1. Escape 

Getting onboard a crewed charter sailing catamaran or bareboat charter sailing catamaran will allow an escape from the everyday. Cruising the world’s oceans can rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. Sailing creates that boundless freedom with an endless horizon, where your to-do list quickly fades away. 

2. Adventure 

Chartering a catamaran allows you to go anywhere in the world, creating unique opportunities and freedom to explore new destinations. These destinations offer memorable and unique experiences. So much of the world can be explored by catamaran, from the Cyclades Islands of Greece and island hopping in The Exumas in The Bahamas to the secluded islands of the Inner Islands of the Seychelles. At Boatbookings, our crewed catamarans or bareboat catamarans can take you to the most idyllic and remote destinations that are typically inaccessible by other means than a yacht.

3. Relax 

There is something inherently soothing about being on the ocean, especially when there is no motor, creating the most serene experience to be at one with nature. Relaxing onboard a sailing catamaran can provide the best backdrop; you will have front-row seats, waking up to the picturesque sunrise and ending your day watching the sun dip into the horizon. 

4. Connection

Stepping aboard a sailing catamaran gives you the chance to disconnect from life fully and gives you time to focus on yourself and the loved ones with you in your surroundings. It is the perfect activity to share with family and friends, bringing groups closer together. On a bareboat catamaran, this connection fosters teamwork and having to work together to sail. 

5. Competition 

We also love sailing for the sport itself. Nothing is better than participating in sailing regattas and races worldwide. The regatta circuit is full of exciting events year-round for catamarans; from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, there are always races to participate in. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or a novice, these events not only give you a chance to improve your skills and test your endurance but also share the joy of sailing with others. 

6. Community 

But sailing is also more than just a sport; it is a lifestyle that combines a community of like-minded individuals. Regardless of who you are and where you are, there is always a close-knit community for sailing. Whether sharing advice on boats, tips on the best sailing destinations, or helping you tie up, you can always count on the sailing community for support. 

7. Protection

Sailing is an ever-increasingly popular activity today, and the boating market is booming. However, while more people benefit from this, it is also essential to continue to protect our oceans why doing so. Sailing has helped make us closer to the ocean and, therefore, have a stronger connection to preserve and protect it against adverse impacts. At Boatbookings we have curated a selection of the best greener crewed charter catamarans, to help mitigate your impact.

8. Features

Catamarans have a unique design that ensures the utmost stability on the water, providing a smoother and more comfortable sailing experience. The generous deck space is perfect for socialising, dining and enjoying the views. While inside catamarans boast increased living space with more luxurious cabins. They also have a shallower draft meaning access to more secluded anchorages is easier. 

From the unforgettable scenery, sunrises, and sunsets to the adventure and thrill of being on the ocean, a sailing trip will give you memories to last a lifetime. Contact one of the team at Boatbookings today to book your next sailing catamaran charter with us. 

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Navigating a Greener Future: How is Technology Transforming the Boating Industry 

Innovations in technology are playing a pivotal role in reshaping the boating industry, offering more advanced solutions to minimize its environmental impact. With the growing concerns for climate change and environmental impact, the call for a more sustainable boating industry is getting louder. 

The transformative power of technology is evident in its ability to streamline processes and enhance overall efficiency. From operations to customer experiences, technology is proving to be the driving force toward a greener future. 

At Boatbookings, we value this role of advancing technology and take a look at some of the ways it is doing so here: 

Reducing Emissions 

One critical step toward a greener boating industry is the reduction of carbon footprints. Technology comes to the fore by providing tools to measure and mitigate these impacts. At Boatbookings, we have been ahead of this for years with our carbon emissions calculator, enabling clients to offset emissions of their crewed charter catamarans. With the technology in place, the industry can easily calculate and minimize emissions. This also helps with the increasing regulatory landscape, allowing companies and clients to implement targeted strategies for emissions. 

Digitizing Processes

The digital revolution has been transforming how the world of yachting operates, including marinas. The move toward digitization significantly reduces paperwork and manual processes, which enhances efficiency. Platforms like Dockwa and Seasy lead the charge in facilitating online marina bookings, allowing bareboat catamaran charter clients to easily book their stays. Not only does this simplify the booking process, but it also contributes to reducing waste associated with traditional paperwork. 

Enhancing Efficiency 

Advancements in GPS technology and automation are revolutionizing boat navigation. Smart navigation systems are now integrated into boats to improve efficiency and safety. These systems provide precise routes, optimizing fuel consumption and ensuring boats can navigate with the least environmental impact. The integration of technology is making navigation not only more reliable but also more environmentally conscious. 

Collaboration and Community 

Technology also fosters a sense of community and environmental responsibility within the industry. Apps like CleanSwell are empowering communities to collaborate in beach clean-up efforts. Individuals can now actively participate in conserving the marine environment by leveraging technology to organize and coordinate these initiatives. 

Sustainable Provisioning 

New apps such as Paradise Foods, a grocery delivery service in the Caribbean, are now providing an innovative way for crewed charter catamaran and bareboat charter catamaran clients and crew to deliver their provisions directly to the boat. This technology is also facilitating a shift toward more local and seasonal eating, minimizing the carbon footprint associated with food miles. This app allows users to enjoy fresh, locally sourced produce, contributing to the promotion of sustainable practices. 

Technology is undeniably at the forefront of transforming the boating industry into a more sustainable and environmentally conscious sector. As it advances, we hope to see even more positive changes. Contact the team at Boatbookings today to book your greener crewed charter catamaran and be part of this positive change. 

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