How Is The Boating World Reducing Carbon Emissions?

Reducing carbon emissions is at the top of the agenda when it comes to the boating sector. Looking at ways to minimize the negative impact on our oceans is vital. The industry is already taking significant steps to reduce its carbon footprint and advocate for sustainability. From innovative technological solutions to operational changes, yacht builders, charter companies like us at Boatbookings, and other industry leaders are paving the way forward for a greener future. 

Here, we look at how the boating industry is working to reduce its emissions: 

Harnessing Hybrid & Electric 

One of the most significant developments in the quest for minimizing impact is hybrid and fully electric propulsion systems for yachts. By combining traditional diesel engines with electric motors or relying solely on battery power, these systems drastically reduce or eliminate the need for fossil fuels, significantly curbing emissions. We recognize these developments, so we offer a range of our greener-crewed charter catamarans. Sunreef Yachts has made massive progress with its Eco Range, utilizing cutting-edge hybrid and electric technologies. These yachts not only minimize the environmental impact but also offer a more peaceful boating experience. 

Embracing Sustainable Design 

Beyond propulsion, yacht builders are also exploring the use of sustainable materials and design principles to further reduce the boats’ carbon footprint. From incorporating recycled or more eco-friendly materials in construction to optimizing hull designs for improved efficiency, these efforts collectively contribute to a greener, reduced-emission future. 

Carbon Offset Programs 

In addition to technological advancements improving things, many companies and marinas are implementing carbon offset programs and renewable energy initiatives to mitigate the environmental impact by investing in projects that capture or offset carbon emissions, such as reforestation or renewable energy projects. Our carbon emission calculator can help you calculate the carbon credits you must purchase depending on the boat and itinerary. 

Eco-Friendly Operations 

In recent years, there has been a massive shift in the yacht charter sector that is helping improve the operational profiles of yachts regarding carbon emissions. More companies and yachts are implementing more eco-friendly practices. These include removing single-use plastics, including greener products onboard, offering seasonal and local menus, and implementing proper waste disposal. Fostering this culture of environmental responsibility and adopting best practices demonstrates that the boating community is working to minimize impact and carbon emissions. 

Sustainability has become more of a priority for the industry, and we can see this in the decreased demand for greener crewed charter catamarans. Embracing innovation, sustainable materials, and eco-friendly practices, as well as offsetting carbon, contribute to the boating sector and reduce its overall emissions. 

Contact us today to find out more about our greener yacht options or to chat with a member of the Boatbookings team about carbon offsetting. 

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.