In November, the first zero-emissions yacht will cruise into Fort Lauderdale’s International Boat Show. Island Pilot, LLC has produced the DSe Hybrid 12m yacht powered by diesel or biodiesel fuel, solar and electrical power. Much like a hybrid vehicle, the yacht can travel using only electric battery reserves, in fact, it can travel at seven knots, a great speed  for cruising into and out of harbors without burning fuel and hitting the breaks. 

The DSe Hybrid is just over 39 feet long, has a six-kilowatt solar power system, and can run for up to 20 kilowatt hours on battery power. The yacht features two staterooms roomy enough to hold queen-sized beds, a home theatre sound system, HDTV, and is big enough for the family. It’s eco-luxury at its best! One of the most environmentally friendliest features of the yacht is its ability to generate power from its solar panels while anchored. 

In sea trials, the DSe met Island’s goal of six knots on solar power alone. Island tested the yacht in various sun, wind and sea conditions including “dozens of runs up river (against tide and wind) and down --  with sun and with rain -- with four different sets of propellers and three different load conditions.” According to the testing crew, “there has never been a quieter, more fuel-efficient cruising yacht... ever.” That’s great news for eco-minded boating enthusiasts.