Category Archives: Yacht Types

The top 5 ways that boat design is embracing sustainability

Boat design is fundamental when it comes to improving the yacht charter industry’s green credentials. It is a powerful element that can help transform the fate of the future. 

Last week was ‘Earth Overshoot Day’, marking the date when our demand for resources in a given year exceeds what Earth can regenerate in that year. This is a poignant reminder of the immediate action we must take with the consumption and use of resources.  

More than 80% of the environmental impact of a product is determined at the design stage, so it is without a doubt, we must continue to design better. At Boatbookings, we have seen various design developments and trends in the right direction to pave the way toward a better future.

We take a look into these: 

1. Sustainable sourcing

When selecting materials to design boats, choosing ones that have less impact and are more earth-friendly is vital. Responsible and ethical sourcing is key; for example, Lagoon now sources wood and teak from FSC-certified forests. Some boat builders are now replacing traditional, synthetic, and toxic materials with natural fibers, such as Silent Yachts and its use of flax fibers, bamboo, and cork when they outfit their catamarans. There have also been exciting developments using recycled composites, the recent launch of nlcomp’s Ecoracer boat in Italy this year is a prime example. Hopefully, this is the beginning of recyclable composites used in bigger boat building in future years.

2. Life Cycle Assessments (LCA)

Today more designers are considering the entire lifecycle of design elements. Conducting lifecycle assessments can help identify where improvements can be made, from manufacturing to usage and maintenance. Pinpointing the environmental impacts at each stage can enable designers to make better decisions about what is used onboard. Sunreef, in particular, is spreading this mission of choosing greener materials, and the fabrics offered for its Eco-catamaran range have a Life Cycle Assessment analysis carried out to identify and minimize impact.  

3. Efficient construction 

When it comes to energy efficiency, it is important to keep the yacht as lightweight as possible, enabling it to use less fuel and, therefore, emit less emissions. There have been various developments in the use of lightweight materials and more efficient hull design. When it comes to better hull designs, at Boatbookings, we increased our offering of crewed charter catamarans over the last few years to help with the choice of greener options. The wide beam and twin-hull design of a catamaran offers better fuel efficiency. Efficient construction is also about integrating smart systems that minimize energy consumption onboard, such as lighting and climate control. 

4. Greener propulsion systems 

There have been so many advances in propulsion systems that have also enhanced energy consumption onboard. Hybrid propulsion systems are now commonly seen, integrating traditional engines with electric motors. Designers are also utilizing renewable energy sources such as solar panels; the Fountaine Pajot catamarans champion the use of solar panels for more sustainable cruising.

5. Eco-conscious interiors 

It is also important to look at what is on the inside. Interior designers have begun introducing more environmentally conscious interior materials, promoting renewable and non-toxic choices. There have been many exciting approaches and creative use of alternatives, such as using recycled ocean plastics for rugs and other fabrics. Materials such as organic cotton, hemp, cork, and flax are now being selected,. There has also been a rise in cruelty-free design and the use of vegan materials, for example, replacing leather with mushroom leather. 

We are at a vital crossroads in choosing a better future for our world; sustainability is no longer a buzzword. It requires commitment. At Boatbookings, we champion greener boat brands and embrace better design concepts. Contact the team at Boatbookings today to find out about our environmentally friendly yacht charters. 

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Charter Sustainbly: Spotlight on our new Sunreef 50 Eco, Tiril

We are excited to announce an addition to our crewed charter catamarans. This Sunreef 50 Eco, Tiril, is perfect for those wanting a quiet luxury and a lighter carbon footprint on their charter. 

What makes Tiril more sustainable? 

This isn’t just any charter catamaran; the Sunreef 50 Eco range is electric, innovative, and eco-conscious in design and operation. 

One standout feature is that you can cruise silently with Tiril. The Sunreef is fitted with solar panels, and with energy produced by these and the hydro-generators and wind generators, it boasts silent cruising. The energy is stored in ultralight battery banks, custom-engineered for the Eco range. 

The onboard air conditioning system is revolutionary, designed to keep you cool while conserving energy efficiently and not requiring a noisy generator.

Where will Tiril be?

Tiril will be available for charter across French Polynesia. An incredible, once-in-a-lifetime destination, the islands have plenty to offer. From lush islands and pristine waters to an abundance of tropical marine life. Cruising them in a Sunreef is perfect due to the shallow draft – well suited to easily navigating the atolls and idyllic anchorages. 

Our team can help you with bespoke and tailor-made itineraries, from Moorea to The Tuamotus, helping you explore the best of Polynesia while minimizing your carbon footprint. 

What does Tiril offer?

The Sunreef Eco 50 has four double ensuite cabins and a bunkbed cabin accommodating up to 10 guests. The yacht is fully equipped with everything you will need on a charter and has been finished with eco-responsible materials and sustainable decor.

You cannot cruise French Polynesia without plenty of watersports gear. Trill has sustainable sports such as scuba diving, snorkeling equipment, paddle boards, and wing foiling equipment. 

Onboard Tiril, you will be well looked after by its crew. Captain Clement has a passion for sailing and sustainability. He has sailed extensively for years and the last few have been spent exploring French Polynesia. He has also created an eco-responsible cocoa trading company. Lili, the cook and host, is a native of the Tuamotus. She will show you the incredible warmth of the people and culture of the islands. She will also ensure the highest level of luxury and comfort onboard. 

Get onboard Tiril today! 

What are you waiting for? To enjoy a greener crewed charter catamaran on Tiril in French Polynesia, contact the Boatbookings team today. We are passionate about our oceans and the impact the boating industry is having; that’s why we make sure we champion these greener alternatives going forward. Make a difference today and book a more sustainable charter option. 

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Yacht Show Season: Showing Off Sustainably

After a successful summer in the Mediterranean, we are approaching the anticipated yacht show season. Yacht shows are the highlight of our boating calendars and are not to be missed.

In recent years, more efforts have been made to host greener shows with more exhibitors with sustainable solutions and better initiatives for running a more sustainable event. 

At Boatbookings, sustainability is high on our agenda, particularly with our offerings and our greener crewed charter catamarans. With the Cannes Yacht Show (12-17 September) and the Monaco Yacht Show (27-30 September) on the horizon, we reflect on some of the initiatives yacht show organizers and attendees are doing to help step up sustainability. 

Waste less

Yacht shows have long been tarnished with excessive waste. From setting up temporary infrastructure to a lot of single-use plastic, we are seeing a shift in recent years. There are numerous small changes that are helping reduce waste, such as lanyards being either made from recyclable materials or being returned to be reused. Other marketing materials such as business cards, brochures, and flags have also started to pop up in reusable and recyclable materials – we most recently came across business cards you could plant and grow into a flower! There have also been moves for event organizers to be more mindful of infrastructure. For example, after last year’s Fort Lauderdale show, the marquees were donated to a sea turtle conservation organization. 

Offsetting travel 

It isn’t a surprise that people come far and wide to yacht shows. The boating community is global, and this additional travel adds to the carbon footprint. However, more organizations and attendees recognize this and have begun to offset their carbon responsibility, contributing to environmental projects. We already have our carbon emissions calculator to calculate emissions for each boat, allowing you to offset when you charter. Perhaps more shows could also have this in place. Last year Palm Beach Show teamed up with Yacht Carbon Offset to facilitate this. 

Catering to sustainability 

Yacht shows usually have many opportunities to network over meals and drinks. More shows have implemented sustainability initiatives regarding their catering suppliers, for example, using local and seasonal produce and composting any waste. As well as these choices, many of them also aim to use better packaging and minimize single-use plastic. 

Image courtesy of Sailia Yachts

Platform for change – Electric featured yachts and sustainability hubs

The yacht shows are the perfect opportunity to showcase innovative technology in the realm of sustainability, such as advanced propulsion or products made from eco-friendly materials. They also set the stage for effective discussions around sustainability. Many of them hold specific seminars, presentations, and workshops on the future of the industry. Some also have dedicated areas to showcase sustainability, such as the ‘Green Route’ at the Cannes Yacht Show, highlighting exhibitors’ sustainable solutions, and the Sustainability hub at the Monaco Yacht Show. For instance, Sailia Yachts will be in the Hub with their line of fully electric motor yachts that can accelerate to 32 knots in 7 seconds!

Contact us to meet one of our Boatbookings brokers at any of the upcoming shows, to chat all things sustainability, and to find out about our greener crewed charter catamarans. 

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Lagoon Catamarans step up their sustainability efforts

Over the years, we have loved seeing the developments of the crewed charter catamarans we offer, especially from the builders who prioritize sustainability – such as Lagoon catamarans. 

The Lagoon brand of catamarans is part of the Beneteau Group and has been committed to preserving our oceans for years ever since the brand was launched in 1984. Here are three key initiatives that Lagoon is incorporating into its catamarans to make them more environmentally friendly. 

1. Greener propulsion systems 

Many clients that charter a Lagoon tend to sail in remote areas, so energy autonomy is crucial. Lagoon has focused on energy efficiency for some time, using solar panels and wind turbines, carefully selecting energy-efficient equipment and appliances while maintaining a high level of comfort onboard. 

In terms of propulsion, they are a pioneer in offering hybrid propulsion, as well as solar panels integrated into the coachroof, which is why we have been offering them with Boatbookings for many years. They have also invested heavily in studies to improve hull shapes and their models’ efficiency continually. 

2. Sustainable materials 

They are also built better! Lagoon now uses many more sustainable materials within its build process. For example, the wood is derived from FSC-certified forests, and the upholstery is made entirely from recycled materials. Plans for Lagoon include replacing all glass fiber with natural hemp fiber. They have also made substantial technological advances in resin and fiber, which looks promising for their future models – watch this space. 

3. Sustainability is high on their agenda 

Lagoon continuously innovates to improve, and sustainability is a key focus. Aside from enhanced energy efficiency and greener materials, Lagoon also includes ecological and biodegradable boat maintenance kits with each catamaran. 

Another commitment that Lagoon has made is to Anima Mundi, and their partnership is seeking to create the first complete database of plastic waste on the coastline with the assistance of Lagoon owners. Lagoon has also partnered with Escape to Nature. Their expert cinematographers are onboard a Lagoon 55 in remote areas of the Pacific to highlight the importance of preserving the underwater world. 

Lagoon takes a holistic approach. The Research and Development team is constantly researching construction methods to improve the sustainability of their yachts. They have also invested in their facilities, which are certified to high standards of environmental management and energy performance. This year the yard’s Bordeaux site has officially been certified in recognition of their efforts. 

How about a beautiful Lagoon for your next charter? While Lagoon catamarans are the epitome of comfort and performance in the catamaran world with their spacious interiors, stability, versatility, and sailing capabilities, they are also helping sailors minimize their impact. Contact one of the team at Boatbookings today to learn more about our crewed charter catamarans with Lagoon. 

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Changing tides: The benefits of carbon offsetting your next yacht charter

At Boatbookings, we have long been at the forefront of driving initiatives to help improve our yacht charter industry and work to minimize its environmental impacts. One of these is the concept of carbon offsetting, a proactive and responsible response that encompasses multiple benefits to steering the industry toward a better future. 

What is carbon offsetting?

Carbon offsetting should first require the reduction of a carbon footprint as much as possible; the purpose is to offset the remaining unavoidable carbon emissions through certified carbon credits. Each credit represents a certificate for reducing one tonne of carbon from the atmosphere. 

Carbon offsetting is a complex topic and can hinder progress if not properly conducted and implemented through regulation. It is not the perfect environmental solution; however, it is powerful and can help reduce yachting’s environmental impact. 

We ensure it is done correctly through the work we do with Climate Care, which funds UN-approved projects that reduce carbon emissions worldwide, such as wind farms, reforesting, and reducing outdoor waste burning. 

Assessing a carbon footprint 

Within this offsetting process, the yacht’s footprint must be accurately assessed. Our carbon offset calculator can help with this. We use the information about the boat and itinerary to predict and measure carbon emissions to then calculate the carbon credits needed to purchase to offset. As an example, a recent charter from Cannes to St. Tropez on a Sunseeker Predator burned 93 liters of fuel. The cost to offset it? 9 Euros. Only 9 Euros to offset all of that carbon and have plants take it back out of the sky. Seems like a good investment, and the charters were thrilled to know that their emissions would be dealt with.

The benefits 

  • Reducing carbon footprints: The offsetting allows us to compensate for emissions by supporting projects that reduce carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. 
  • Supports sustainable projects: It enables the development of emission reduction projects in developing countries that otherwise do not have the financial means. Fewer carbon reduction projects would exist without the subsidy from this process. 
  • Encourages innovation: Aids the development and adoption of new and innovative technologies that reduce emissions. This knock-on impact accelerates the transition to a lower carbon economy. 
  • Creates opportunities: Many of the offsetting projects create greener opportunities and can help support local economies. 

Carbon offsetting represents a tangible commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability within our yacht charter industry. By participating in carbon offsetting programs, we can contribute to preserving our planet and oceans while driving the industry toward more sustainable practices. 

Contact the team at Boatbookings today to find out more about our work with carbon offsetting and to charter a more environmentally friendly yacht. 

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