5 Key Reasons To Charter An Environmentally-Friendly Catamaran

As the boating sector becomes increasingly conscious of the need to protect our planet’s oceans, we look toward the catamaran as a more eco-friendly and sustainable way to explore our oceans. At Boatbookings, we are committed to providing our guests with not only a luxurious experience but also a more responsible sailing experience that leaves a minimal environmental footprint. 

Here are the top 5 reasons why you should look at chartering a catamaran for your next boating vacation: 

1. Sustainable & Efficient Design 

Catamarans are inherently designed for sustainability and efficiency. Their lightweight construction and sleek twin-hull configuration require less power to propel them through the water. Therefore, this translates to an exceptional fuel economy and reduces carbon emissions.

2. Renewable Energy Integration 

Many catamaran builders, such as Sunreef and Lagoon, are integrating renewable energy sources like solar panels into their superstructures. Sailing catamarans also further harness renewable energy, utilising the wind when sailing. This allows for reduced reliance on fossil fuels and the ability to cruise quietly without the noise and fumes associated with traditional combustion engines. 

3. Spacious Living with a Smaller Footprint 

While offering guests generous living spaces, catamarans have a relatively small footprint compared to monohull yachts of similar size. The large saloon and cabin areas onboard catamarans, thanks to the twin hulls, are ideal for large groups and families. Another benefit is that these yachts are remarkably stable, making them the perfect choice for island-hopping adventures around the Mediterranean, especially for a charter around Greece and Croatia.

4. Better Access 

With their shallow draft, catamarans can easily explore remote bays, coves, and islands that are less accessible to larger, deeper boats. Improved access on a crewed charter catamaran means guests can get more off the beaten track and into less visited anchorages. This low draft also minimizes the risk of damaging sensitive marine environments, particularly coral reefs and the seagrass beds abundant throughout the Mediterranean

5. Stable Playtime 

The stability of catamarans provides the ideal platform for watersports and responsible exploration of marine environments. Snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding are much easier from a catamaran’s steady base. Our fleet of charter catamarans have plenty of eco-responsible water toys to play with when cruising the Mediterranean. 

Get Onboard Today! 

We have a wide range of greener crewed charter catamarans available for your next boating vacation. Why not charter Tiril? This Sunreef Eco 50 is the ideal yacht for adventures further afield, exploring French Polynesia. Back in the Mediterranean, you can charter the larger Sunreef 60, E Superyacht, to explore Sardinia. And, over in the Caribbean, we have Nemo, the Nautitech 47, and Voyage 590E, perfect for these idyllic cruising grounds. 

Wherever you are looking to cruise next, contact one of the Boatbookings teams about booking your next greener crewed charter catamaran experience.

Eco-Conscious Charters: Our 5 Top Tips For New Boat Charter Clients

More and more boat charter clients are prioritizing sustainability and reducing their environmental footprint. At Boatbookings, we value this shift and want to guide new clients toward a better, more responsible boat charter for their next vacation. 

We have put together our top 5 tips for new boat charter clients: 

1. Choose a Greener Boat 

Within the Boatbookings fleet, there is an extensive range of boats to choose from. Whether you opt for a crewed charter catamaran, motor yacht, or sailing yacht. Or, if you want to go it alone, we also have bareboat yachts for charter, both motor and sail. It is more important than ever to choose a greener yacht in today’s world, which is why we work hard to offer a broader fleet of greener boats, such as our selection of greener crewed catamarans

2. Select Better Preferences 

While yachts are well-stocked for your vacation, consider opting for things that reduce your impact. For example, you can request reef-safe sunscreen, refillable water bottles, and eco-friendly toiletries. Selecting preferences will also ensure the crew knows exactly what you require for your trip, making it an unforgettable experience. 

3. Pick A Quieter Destination 

There are so many places worldwide you can explore this summer by boat. Our Boatbookings team can help you plan your itinerary and choose the best places to visit. The Mediterranean is one of our favorite spots, from the French Riviera to Greece. Although some of these hotspots are at risk of over-tourism, selecting a quieter, more off-the-tourist track destination will help you get away from overcrowded destinations. We can also advise you on the local marine conservation initiatives in these areas to get involved in while you are there.

4. Offset Your Emissions 

Despite efforts to reduce environmental impacts, most yacht charters will still release carbon emissions. You can help counteract this by purchasing carbon offsets that invest in clean energy projects and other activities that remove greenhouse gasses from the atmosphere. Our carbon offset calculator can help you accurately assess the yacht’s footprint throughout your vacation. 

5. Respect Marine Life

A huge advantage to a boat charter is the opportunity to observe diverse marine species. However, it is vital to do so responsibly, avoid disturbing or feeding wildlife, and never remove anything from the ocean. 

Following these tips and using simple eco-conscious practices means you and future charter clients can experience the joy of a boat charter while minimizing the impact on our fragile ocean ecosystems. Contact one of the Boatbookings team to find out more about our greener crewed charter catamarans

The New Game-Changing Green Technology Disrupting the Boating Sector 

As the boating sector looks at more ways to protect our oceans and reduce its environmental impact, there is a growing demand for more sustainable solutions. With today’s environmental concerns, green boating is more critical than ever before, and many innovative companies and organizations are stepping it up with new, greener technologies. 

What is Green Technology?

Green Technology is an umbrella term for technologies that create services and products with less impact on the planet and oceans. In the boating sector, this can include greener propulsion systems, alternative fuels, hull design, sustainable materials, and eco-friendly accessories. 

At Boatbookings, we remain ahead of these developments to ensure that we are aware of the technologies and look at yacht builders that utilize them. We help facilitate this through our fleet of greener crewed charter catamarans.

Here, we explore some of the latest developments in green technology within the boating and broader maritime sector:

Scaling Up Electric 

Boating has been moving toward electric in the last few years in a big way, and more developments are continuing to push electric technology into the fore. Most recently, the electric hydrofoil boat company Candela has secured its most significant funding round to expand the production of its P-12 fast electric ferry. A key partner in this is Group Beneteau. This funding will help scale up production to meet demand for the world’s first electric hydrofoil ferry. Scaling up innovative solutions aligns with both company’s objectives for more sustainable boating. 

Facilitating Alternative Fuels 

Along with developments in the electric market, there are also considerable efforts to utilize alternative fuels across the maritime industry. One example is the recent launch of Monaco’s first autonomous green hydrogen pontoon for recreational boating. Launching this floating facility will produce green hydrogen from renewable energy sources to refill and supply multiple teams with this greener fuel in preparation for the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge. This development promotes the usage and facilitation of more eco-responsible energy resources in boating. 

Integrating AI

The rise of digital innovation driven by artificial intelligence (AI) is helping make the entire sector more sustainable. A recent collaboration between Hyundai and Naver aims to revolutionize how vast amounts of maritime data gets utilized through big data analytics and AI-drive learning algorithms. This AI can provide optimal navigation routes and insight for enhanced operational efficiency and environmental sustainability through data-driven decision-making. Currently, this development is within the shipbuilding and commercial maritime sectors, but these notable AI developments will eventually filter down to the boating and yachting sectors. 

Better Materials 

Boat builders are constantly rethinking the materials used in construction and finding innovative solutions. Natural fibers like flax are substituting fiberglass composites and integrating more recycled plastics. The interiors of boats are also being considered, along with materials such as cork, bamboo, and other eco-friendly options used for upholstery and fabrics. A prime example of using better materials is highlighted through the recent launch of North Sails RENEW sails, where over 90% of the sails are constructed from bio-based or recycled materials while not comprising performance or longevity. 

From recreational boating to large-scale commercial shipping, the entire maritime industry is rapidly accelerating the implementation of greener technologies to advocate for more environmentally responsible experiences. We are optimistic that we will continue to see more sustainable solutions emerge and that the boating sector will become greener. If you want to discuss our greener crewed charter catamarans for your Mediterranean summer charter, contact one of the Boatbookings team today. 

Autonomous Boats: Navigating a Greener Boating World

Autonomous technology has rapidly evolved over the past few years. From advanced sensors to navigation systems, the boating industry is beginning to embrace this emerging technology. While this is improving cost and safety, it is also poised to have a knock-on effect on sustainability.

We have seen the ever-increasing innovation and popularity of autonomous cars and the rise of zero-emission autonomous ships within shipping. These developments show promise to now filter down to the leisure boating market.

At Boatbookings, we are excited to see these technological changes on the horizon and the opportunities they will create for a greener boating industry. We take a look at how the rise of autonomous boats may help pave the way to a better future:

Optimize Navigation 

Autonomous systems can analyze real-time data, weather conditions, and traffic to enable boats to chart the most fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly routes. By optimizing navigation, boats can also reduce fuel consumption, minimizing emissions. 

Enhance Fuel Efficiency 

The technology used within autonomy can allow smarter sailing, resulting in significant fuel efficiency gains. Reduced fuel consumption not only means cost savings but also substantially contributes to mitigating carbon emissions. 

Reduce Accidents 

Safety is paramount in boating, and more advanced technology can enhance protocols. By integrating collision avoidance technologies, boats can minimize the risk of accidents. Fewer accidents also translate to a decreased likelihood of any environmental damage, such as oil spills. 

Smart-Energy Management 

There are increasingly sophisticated systems onboard that manage energy usage. These systems can efficiently distribute and harness power and integrate with hybrid propulsion and electric battery technology. Overall, these smart systems will reduce the reliance on fuel sources. 

A Better Future 

The adoption of autonomous boating technologies represents a catalyst for broader sustainability initiatives. As innovation in autonomous technology continues, it creates opportunities for the adoption of other sustainable practices and technology, making greener solutions more accessible to the boating industry. Integrating autonomous technologies is a shift toward a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future for the boating sector. The industry can begin to minimize its environmental footprint by leveraging advanced technology.

Our electric crewed charter catamarans showcase our commitment to improving the future, where greener technologies play a pivotal role. Contact one of our team today to discuss options for a greener boat charter. 

The Top 4 Greener Luxury Yachts To Charter in 2024

Chartering luxury yachts no longer requires compromising eco-conscious values for luxury. At Boatbookings, we pride ourselves in offering a wide range of greener, crewed catamaran charters in various locations, suiting varying needs. 

As the world and the boating industry set their sights on creating a more sustainable future, looking at greener ways of exploring our oceans is vital. From harnessing greener propulsion and integrating eco-conscious materials to offering less fuel-guzzling activities, plenty of luxury yachts are out there championing a greener vacation. 

Here are our favorite greener crewed catamarans for charter in 2024: 

1. Sol 

This Sunreef 80 was new on the luxury yacht charter market last year, and we are excited to be offering her for this season in the Caribbean. Whether you want to cruise the BVIs, USVIs, or The Bahamas, you can do so on this Sunreef Eco 80 while ensuring you have a minimal impact on our oceans. She can accommodate up to 8 guests and offers a range of eco-conscious and wellness activities such as yoga, paddle boarding, and many other toys. Sol is powered by an electric propulsion system and the integrated Sunreef solar paneling technology. She is also furnished with eco-friendly materials. Contact the Boatbookings team today to enjoy a greener luxury yacht charter in the Caribbean onboard Sol. 

2. Silent Dream

Aptly named after catamaran builder Silent Yachts, Silent Dream is a 60 fully electric-powered catamaran accommodating up to 6 guests. She cruises silently, resulting in zero emissions with her battery banks and solar panels. Silent Dream has an extensive range of eco-conscious water toys, from snorkeling to kayaking and paddleboarding. Why not hop aboard her in Sardinia this summer? Contact the Boatbookings team today to enjoy a greener luxury yacht charter in the Mediterranean onboard Silent Dream. 

3. Tiril 

Another yacht from the Sunreef Eco line, but this time slightly smaller. Tiril, Sunreef 50, is perfect for those wanting to get off the beaten track while maintaining a lighter carbon footprint. She is fitted with the Sunreef solar panels. Available to charter throughout the Pacific islands, Tiril will also keep you cool in these tropical locations as she boasts a revolutionary air conditioning system that is energy efficient. Contact the Boatbookings team today to enjoy a greener luxury yacht charter in the Pacific onboard Tiril. 

4. Nemo

This Nautitech 47 greener crewed catamaran can accommodate up to 10 guests and is perfect for sailing around the BVIs. She runs on practically 100% sustainable energy with her two wind turbines and solar panels. Enjoy some alfresco dining of fresh seafood on the aft deck with the onboard BBQ. Contact the Boatbookings team today to enjoy a greener luxury yacht charter in the Caribbean onboard Nemo. 

These greener crewed charter catamarans are just a small selection of what we offer at Boatbookings for 2024. Whether you want to charter in the Caribbean, the South Pacific, or the Mediterranean, we have the perfect option for you to ensure you minimize your carbon footprint and impact on our oceans. Contact the Boatbookings team to enjoy a New Year full of responsible luxury yacht charters.