silent yacht 55 layout

• Yachting World
• Digital Edition

Review: Silent 55, the extraordinary solar powered yacht

• January 18, 2019

Silent Yachts is tapping into the solar zeitgeist and creating a new meaning for the term ‘powercat’.  Sam Fortescue reports

There is a slow, silent revolution under way in the yachting world. It is a revolution that is introducing tonnes of lithium and a sprinkling of silicon to the spec list of new boats. Holding out the promise of silent mobility, plus limitless domestic power on board, it made a big splash at the last Cannes Festival of Yachting – not least thanks to the new Silent 55 catamaran which debuted there.

From the pontoon side, the Silent 55 looks like a typical modern catamaran, with a big coachroof studded with windows and a flybridge helm. Except there’s no mast. Now, bear with me here. I realise that this is a sailing magazine, but we will shortly get back to more familiar territory. The unique qualities of this catamaran only become apparent from up top, where an expanse of solar panels stretches away fore and aft, embedded into the coachroof. The hard top itself carries yet more panels, and can be folded down flush to give an unshaded solar array of 49m2. During the heat of a summer day in the Med, this is capable of generating 10kW of power and up to around 60kWh in the course of the day.

But to make a solar system work in reality, Köhler had to go back to the drawing board on yacht design. The saloon and hulls have extra thermal insulation to keep air-con losses down, and the use of carbon and aramid in key areas helps reduce the overall weight to a decent 17 tonnes (a Lagoon 52 weighs 22.5 tonnes). He has tried to keep windows out of the direct sun with long overhangs and in contrast to the Lagoon’s 12 deck hatches, the Silent 55 has just two.

Holistic design

On the other hand, it has lots of opening windows, to allow a natural draught to do its job. “It’s a holistic approach – you can’t take the batteries and the drivetrain and drop it into another boat.”

Of course, using the propulsion system quickly takes its toll of the boat’s 140kW battery bank. The model on display at Cannes had two 135kW motors, giving you just half an hour of silent motoring flat-out, albeit at a top speed of over 20 knots. More reasonable 30kW engines and a single-digit speed give you greater range. Nonetheless, the electric drive alone isn’t going to allow you to outrun a storm, or race home after a day at anchor, so the boat is designed to work with a generator hidden in the heavily insulated transom of its starboard hull. At cruising speed of around 5-6 knots, Köhler says there is rarely any need to use the generator, citing an owner who has just emailed him triumphantly about a second year totally generator-free. “In the end, you have to compare it to the performance of a sailing boat,” Köhler says. “It is as fast as a sailing boat in similar conditions – after all, there is no wind without sun.” He went so far as to tell me during the sea trial in Palma, Mallorca, that he believed the majority of sailors would happily dispense with the hassle of sails and a rig if only they could enjoy silent motoring and anchoring. “As soon as people realise the incredible concept of this boat, they won’t understand why they ever did anything else.”

The market does not seem to agree with him – yet. Sales of the boat have been good – they have already sold six, five of which are already in the water. But of those, four customers have taken the sail option, which means planting a 19.7m tall mast complete with boom and rigging slap bang in the middle of the coachroof solar array. “I was a bit amazed,” Köhler admits. “The shade from the rig reduces the energy generated by the solar area, while it costs more and is heavier, so consumes more fuel. Maybe it is for optical reasons.” In fact, the shade of the rig slashes the average yield of the solar panels in half. In the Med, that means around 30kWh per day. But perhaps it figures. The typical profile of buyers is an environmentalist who has a Tesla electric car and is “an early adopter who likes to have things before others”. And at low speeds, with modest use of the air-con, the reduced energy generation should still cover daily consumption.

The performance under sail should be reasonable because of the lightweight build of the boat, its broad 8.47m beam and stub keels added to each hull. Control lines are led back via conduits in the coachroof to the flybridge helm station, to make single-handing under sail a possibility.

More interesting, I think, is a sort of halfway-house option using a kite rig. This optimises the performance of the solar panels and gives plenty of propulsion. On the smaller 55 and the 64, Silent Yachts currently recommends a 19m2 kite that costs around €25,000 – a fraction of the cost of a new mast, boom, shrouds and sails. “The sail automatically makes a figure of eight above the boat, and you can steer it with a joystick or an app on an android phone,” Köhler explains. “It can propel the 55 at up to 6 knots, even in light winds.” Perfect for an Atlantic crossing, then.

For the bigger Silent 79, which will hit the water in the summer, a commercial grade Sky Sail system needs to be used – a smaller version of the ones used on cargo ships. This kite can propel the boat at ten knots, but it costs more than ten times as much as its smaller cousin. Both are capable of pulling the boat upwind. So far, so new. But outside the novel energy and propulsion system, the Silent 55 aims to do what many other cruising catamarans are trying to achieve. “Most of our clients order for circumnavigation and long-term cruising,” Köhler says. So the boat is aimed to be as comfortable and capable as possible with watermakers, TVs and an induction hob that all capitalise on the boat’s abundant energy. A flexible configuration allows owners the choice 
of between three and six cabins – the latter designed for charter. The owner’s cabin lies forward of the saloon, under the windows of the coachroof, which provide magnificent views and abundant natural light. There’s a walk-around bed and steps down into the starboard hull give access to an en-suite shower room and heads.

In my view, the best cabin lies aft of this, accessed in the traditional manner down steps out of the saloon. The king-sized bed lies athwartships and the shower is larger than that of the master cabin. There’s more space down here, better headroom and still plenty of light courtesy of the many hull lights.

When I had the chance to sea trial the Silent 55, albeit in motorboat format, I jumped at it. It was a contrary autumn day on Mallorca with 15 knots breeze – just a shame, then, that this wasn’t one of the sailing configured versions.

To start with, getting on board is made really easy courtesy of deep boarding platforms on the skirts. She feels rather square because of that vast, glazed saloon with its deep overhang, and perhaps because of the utilitarian nature of the hard top, which is really about supporting more solar panels. Nevertheless, the side decks are broad and uncluttered. The space up top is designed to concertina down flat, hence the hydraulic rams, fold-down seat back and lowering console. It makes a great sailing position, though, with all round visibility, and is also perfect for sundowners at anchor. When the rain comes down, this feels quite exposed, but there is a fully sheltered helm at the front of the saloon, and it is also possible to drive the boat from anywhere using a tablet thanks to smart electronics. Under power, the handling is superb. The quietness of the motors is astonishing, and I gather they’ll be inaudible on the next boat, which will do away with the gearbox. Even in the aft cabins, directly above the motors, there is no more than a distant hum. The boat responds instantly to the power and the wind seemed to have no impact at all. As with any propulsion system, the power consumption jumps as you pile on the speed – it was sobering to see. At 6 knots, both motors drew 10kW but at 8 knots it was closer to 30kW. I liked the huge saloon with its raised table for 360º views. And the sliding door and window gives great access aft, connecting the saloon and cockpit in fine conditions. The finish was smart and in muted tones, feeling more Scandinavian than German.

Intriguingly, at least it seems to me, Köhler has tapped into something with the concept behind Silent Yachts – but not entirely for the reasons that he expected. Buyers are opting for the sail or kite versions of the boat because they want a comfortable wind-powered craft with abundant, quiet energy on tap. It brings a whole new meaning to the 
term ‘powercat’

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Silent Yachts 55 is the Quiet Powercat

• By Phil Draper
• Updated: April 16, 2019

For a quiet yacht, the first Silent-Yachts 55 power catamaran has made a lot of noise. It is the world’s first mainstream yacht with a fully functioning solar installation as standard power.

And it works: When I got aboard a 55 in Spain’s Balearic Isles, it had been cruising for a month without any need for a port or marina services. My arrival was an excuse for the skipper to top off the tanks and fire up the generator for the first time in days.

The yacht comes in three versions: Cruiser (which is what I got aboard), E-Power and Hybrid. Cruiser is solar-focused. E-Power ups the capability of the e-motors as well as the batteries, while Hybrid has twin diesels and electric motors to offer 20-knot speed.

In all the power configurations, solar panels cover most of the Silent 55 ‘s upper surfaces. There are 32 panels in all, comprising a 527-square-foot, 10 kW array.

Beneath those solar panels is a thoroughly modern cruiser with a variable-speed 100 kW Volvo Penta D3-220 generator, a 140 kWh lithium-ion battery bank from MG Energy, Brusa chargers and inverters, and twin brushless 135 kW UQM electric motors whisking straight shafts and four-blade, fixed-pitch props. A control system integrates everything in an easy-to-use format.

“This solar-power installation works properly because we have taken a holistic approach,” says company founder Michael Kohler, an Austrian lawyer and yachtsman with several transatlantic crossings and tens of thousands of sea miles under his belt. He developed the solar concept with Hamburg, Germany-based iYacht.

“You can’t start with a conventional design and install unconventional systems,” he says. “That would not work. Almost every aspect of this model’s specification has been considered from an energy-efficiency perspective.”

Solar-powered boats are destined to function almost exclusively in sunny-weather zones, meaning there will be high demands on air conditioning systems. So the Silent 55’s hulls are insulated, resulting in less unwanted heat entering the boat and less cold air escaping. All of the hull and superstructure glazing limits greenhouse effects with shading and angled glass, to reduce ultraviolet radiation.

Similarly, there are just two deck hatches aboard the Silent 55, whereas a conventional cat of this size may have a dozen. The conventional yacht would probably require 80,000 to 100,000 Btu of air conditioning in the Caribbean or Mediterranean, ­whereas the Silent 55 has a 50,000 Btu system, drawing less power.

Interestingly, the hotter the solar panels get, the less efficient they become. Ventilation has to be effective above and below the photovoltaic cells. The panels aboard the Silent 55 convert around 22 percent of the total energy received into ­electricity. Ten years ago, the best panels converted about 14 percent.

During a typical summer day in the Med, Kohler says, the Silent 55 can produce 50 to 60 kWh with 10 kW power-generation peaks. Putting that into perspective, normal energy demands would be around 10 kWh. With energy-efficient appliances and systems installed, the yacht should support four to six people’s worth of cooking, refrigeration, lighting, hot water and air conditioning.

Cruising ranges depend on load and power-generation variables. At around 5 knots, the 55 could cruise for 20 to 25 nautical miles with the A/C working. The top speed is probably around 14 knots, but for less than an hour. The Silent 55 that I got aboard in Spain had just completed a 70-nautical-mile passage between the closest bays of Mallorca and Ibiza. The passage took about 12 hours using only solar generation and stored battery power, at an average speed of 5.8 knots, Kohler said. Her diesel generator was not used at all, although on arrival, her batteries were almost empty.

At an average 4-knot pace with the watermaker aboard, she’s virtually self-sustaining, Kohler says. She has the potential to achieve 100-nautical-mile days. With generator help at around 7 knots, she should manage 360 nautical miles before refilling her diesel tanks, which hold 159 gallons total. The generator kicks in automatically when battery levels fall below preset parameters, and switches off when a sufficient charge returns. During my test cruise between Puerto Portals and Santa Ponsa, which is about a dozen miles, the limits were set at 30 percent and 70 percent, respectively, and the generator hadn’t been run for at least three days, during which she had covered a relaxed 40 to 45 nautical miles around Mallorca’s coast. And she didn’t need to run the generator overnight with the A/C on.

Beyond her power setups and capabilities, the Silent 55’s outdoor areas deliver the usual walk-around features of a catamaran: side decks, a foredeck with trampoline loungers, and a full-beam aft deck, whose setup is open to client interpretation. The 55 that I was aboard had a dining table, double sofas and a raised a sun pad that could be replaced by an optional hydraulic tender platform.

The deckhouse includes a galley aft, an amidships sofa and table to port, and a helm station to starboard. The forward owner’s stateroom is wide with well-shaded wraparound windows and portlights at varying heights. There are three other guest staterooms, all en suite with the same matte oak veneers.

The Silent-Yachts 55 creates relatively green cruising with notable range for a solar-powered craft. Though she runs quiet, her mission rings out loud and clear.

Silent 79 The next model from Silent-Yachts will be the Silent 79. While the company developed the Silent 55 and 64 models with iYacht in Germany, the Silent 79 is the work of Marco Casali in Italy and Enrique Castilla’s Inseval studio. Lamination of the first 79 is expected to commence this year.

Sails Be Gone The first four Silent 55s, delivered in 2016, were sailboats with masts and booms towering above the solar panels. The first true power catamaran is new, and the founder of Silent-Yachts says the design improves on efficiency; the shade from sails significantly impairs the efficiency of the solar panels.

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Stay at Sea Forever with Solar-Powered Yacht

Silent yachts’ silent 55 catamaran runs on 100-percent solar power for weeks on end., john lyon's most recent stories.

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Like the automotive, aviation, and, let’s face it, nearly every other industry, yacht builders have caught on to the power (pardon the pun) of eco-friendly design. To be fair, the concept is nothing new: There are plenty of hybrid-electric yachts out there, and even a few equipped with large banks of photovoltaic cells. But traditional hybrid models still rely—to some degree—on burning fossil fuels, and the solar panels are generally able to produce only enough energy to power onboard systems.

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The Silent Yachts Silent 55 catamaran that made its debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival last week , however, changes all that. It’s able to generate enough power through its high-efficiency solar cells to power both onboard amenities as well as propulsion. Translation? Like a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier that can spend huge amounts of time at sea, the 55-foot yacht can be configured to be almost entirely self-sufficient. Not only does this mean that the boat doesn’t produce any nasty exhaust, distracting operating noise, or excessive vibrations from traditional engines, it also means that it has an essentially unlimited range (as long as the sun keeps shining). For inclement weather and emergencies, there is a generator on board that can charge the battery. The yacht is even able to harness the solar-electric system to power a water maker capable of supplying as many as six staterooms.

The model shown at Cannes was the E-Power version, which uses two 135 kW motors to travel as fast as 14 knots. But the boat can also be configured in the slower Cruiser version or the more powerful Hybrid Power variation, which pairs two electric motors with two diesel engines. Finally, the sailing set can invest in the Sailor version, which has a mast as well as any previously mentioned motor configuration.

The customization continues inside, with the shipbuilder offering five interior layouts available that accommodate anywhere from three to six staterooms—each of which can be equipped with double or twin berths. If you’re focused on personal pampering, three of the layouts include a full-beam owner’s stateroom. A deck above, you’ll find a combination galley, saloon, and helm, where guests will spend much of their time.

Given all the problems in the world, we wouldn’t blame you for abandoning land altogether, and since the Silent 55’s has the ability to travel 100 miles a day for weeks on end without needing to stop at port, you may have found your perfect escape from reality.

John Lyon joined the Robb Report team in 2009. Starting out as an intern, he has worn many hats over the years and written and edited for nearly every category. However, his lifelong love of all…

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Test / Navigation and Program of Silent Yachts 55 E-power+, sailing silently and without pollution

We tried the Silent Yachts 55 E-power+ in the bay of Cannes in light wind. Its more powerful motorization than the first two versions convinced us for cruising without CO² emissions.

The most powerful motorization

The Silent Yachts 55 is available in three different power versions:

• 2 x 30 kW with 20 kW generator
• E-power with 2 x 135 kW with 100 kW generator
• E-power+ with 2 x 250 kW with a 100 kW generator and a 210 kWh battery bank.

Solar energy is supplied by about 30 solar panels with a peak power of 10kW. This means that on a nice summer day, the recharge can reach about 100 kW. Considering that in the first and last hours of the day, the angle of the rays, at less than 20° is not sufficient, maximum recharging will be more efficient in the summer and much less on days of high cloud cover.

A much more interesting potential

While the first two engines and energy stocks do not allow a "carbon free" speed higher than 4-5 knots and correspond to a rather slow cruising mode, this E-power + version promises us a top speed of 14 knots, but above all allows us to reach 8 knots over 50 miles without having to switch on the generator. With the torque delivering its full power instantly, port manoeuvres are very reassuring. Once out at sea, we set off and check the consumption on the digital control panel and we see that the consumption is exponential as soon as we push the handle on the... watts. While 2kW are needed in the port, as soon as we reach a cruising speed of 8 knots, the needle rises to 30 kW allowing only 5 or 6 hours of navigation. But this is more than enough to cover the 40 miles that usually separate two calls. And if you drop to 7 knots you can cross to Corsica just with the help of the photovoltaic for 15 hours.

A board that controls everything

As soon as you accelerate, at 10 knots, you need 100kW and from 11 knots, you have to start the generator, because the consumption exceeds 150kW unless you set the settings on the panel. It allows you to command and control the energy, whether it concerns propulsion or life on board , but also recharging. It calculates, based on the instantaneous consumption, the right moment to automatically start the generator set so that it never runs out of power. If you keep a speed of more than 10 knots the generator will start by itself after half an hour, whereas if you make 7 knots you will have about 15 hours ahead of you. In fact, the consumption is exponential and a small knot or just going upwind costs a lot of energy, you have to get used to it.

An offshore cruising autonomy

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BOAT REVIEW Silent Yacht 55

• The silence! Almost eerie.
• Multiple areas for relaxing
• Quality finishes wherever you look

The solar-powered Silent 55 catamaran is successfully pioneering renewable power in a quality and seaworthy design.

Solar cell development is a moving at pace which is creating more uses for it, something Silent Yachts company founder Michael Köhler is acutely aware of. After many years of voyaging on conventional power boats it led him and wife Heike to build their first electric prototype which they sailed for five years and 15,000nm before founding the company and constructing their first production Solarwave 46 in 2009. She was the first renewable-powered blue-water catamaran.

I first met the Köhlers in 2017 when they arrived at La Grande Motte boat show with the Silent 64, which I took out for sea trials. I recall gliding along on the Mediterranean at 10 knots while the twin electric motors hummed quietly, consuming 64 kilowatts, before we throttled back to a cruising speed of 6.6 knots for a more sustainable consumption of 31 kilowatts. I steered with a Raymarine autopilot dial and the twin throttles (but a conventional wheel clips into place for traditionalists). The latest boat, the Silent 55, has advanced substantially from the 64, especially with the developments in much more powerful lithium batteries. Along with the Silent 55 and the Silent 64, the other models in the range are the Silent 55 VIP Ferry and the upcoming Silent 79.

The electric proposition The Silent Yachts proposition to buyers is that their systems require hardly any maintenance and produce no fumes or noise so the operational costs are substantially lower compared to power yachts using more traditional propulsion systems. This Silent 55 cruises in the remote Mergui Archipelago in Myanmar during winters so has to be self-sufficient. The company offer several varieties of its vessels, including sailing versions, kite-powered versions, electric ones and a hybrid model. Our review boat was the electric version with upgraded 2 x 135kW motors that achieve 14 knots and a large optional diesel generator.

At first glance the Silent 55 looks like many other power catamarans – a tall flybridge above a large squared-off saloon and spacious lounge decks fore and aft. Looking closer revealed the reason for the large topside structures – these areas host the solar panels. The overall shape is fairly sleek and low-slung to reduce windage. But to maximise the extensive inside space requires upright topsides and squared bulkheads in the saloon which somewhat compromises the aesthetics. So it doesn’t have the smooth curves of a Tesla electric car but, like these vehicles what counts is under the hood.

Apartment-style saloon Cruising catamarans attract buyers for their comfort and stability. The two hulls allows them to carry heavy loads and of course contain a lot living spaces. Looking around the Silent 55, it doesn’t disappoint in any of these areas. Walking inside from the sheltered aft deck reveals a spacious saloon to me with galley at the doorway, dinette on the forward port quarter and steering console opposite. Ahead is a deck level owner’s suite, an unusual feature; and up to six cabins can be optioned on the Silent 55. The U-shaped galley on the portside comprises a deep sink, electric cooktop, dishwasher and worktop space nearby on the starboard side as well, making it an effective cooking space with lots of cupboards; ideal for those blue-water voyages. Refrigeration consumes the most energy on yachts but is an essential so there’s a drawer fridge; in addition our review boat had a large upright household fridge.

The other big consumer is air-conditioning which is a 50,000 BTU reverse-cycle unit on the Silent 55 – it heats as well as cools. Most usefully, there’s a water-maker powered by the solar-electric system, which produces 100l/per hour, so enough to supply a boat load of passengers. Other good galley features include a sliding window that opens aft to the outside dinette area.

But in sunny weather, running at 5 knots, the Silent 55 can do 100 miles daily. The hydraulic steering wheel felt heavy, something that the company was going to rectify, as it consumes more energy from the autopilot. But turning the wide catamaran was done easily, as it gently glided around; with no smoke or noise. All I could hear was the water streaming past the fibreglass hulls and the feel of the wind on my face.

2019 Upgrade to Silent Yacht 55

The Cannes 2019 boat show saw the arrival of an upgraded Silent 55. Key improvements include higher-powered 250kW motors as standard and increased stored power (210kWh batteries compared with 70kWh). More efficiencies have been found through a redesigned drive-train that minimises friction and reduces mechanical noise. Following customer feedback some interior design improvements have also been made, says Köhler. “We did these updates and changes because we always try to improve and to install the best and latest technology available to satisfy our clients. We have built one new SILENT 55 already and we’ve got three more orders for this model, which shows that we’re heading the right direction”.

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VIDEO: Silent Yachts 55 review

The Silent Yachts 55, with its battery bank and solar panels, is a glimpse into the future of motorboats, but is it a viable option for serious cruising?

As we gaze towards the horizon in search of what the future holds for the motor boat, solar energy and harnessing the power of electricity for propulsion loom large in our view.

Some boat yards are already ahead of the curve – Greenline has been banging this particular drum for a decade, while others like Sunseeker have only recently jumped on the bandwagon by unveiling a partnership with MTU that will result in its first diesel/electric production craft in 2021.

However, neither of these yards come close to the ambition of Silent Yachts and its solar powered range of all-electric motor catamarans.

This Austrian outfit claims to have solved the concerns many boaters have about the limited range of electric boats by creating a vessel with unlimited range and little dependence on fossil fuel that is a genuine, useable alternative to a conventional motor boat with an internal combustion engine.

Nor is this simply wishful thinking based on a virtual concept – several examples of the Silent 55 have already been built and we’re here to sea trial one to see if the boat of the future has in fact already arrived.

What do we actually have here, then? One of the major attractions of the 55 is that its design isn’t particularly wacky or off the wall. To the naked eye it is a 55ft power catamaran with a pair of shafts, two helm stations and all the voluminous accommodation one would expect of a big cruising multihull.

Underneath, however, there is a lot to unpick. There are three versions of the 55: the Cruiser, which has a pair of 30kW electric motors, the E-Power tested here with a pair of 135kW motors, and the Hybrid Power, which combines two 14kW electric motors with a pair of 220hp diesel engines for those who want to travel at higher speeds for long periods.

The wheelhouse and collapsible flybridge hardtop are home to 30 solar panels with a combined output of 10kW that can either feed the two electric motors directly or keep the 140kWh battery bank topped up.

There is still one combustion engine on board but it’s a 100kW Volvo Penta generator employed as range extender and charging aid if required. This burns a mere 33lph and is connected to a pair of 800-litre fuel tanks giving around 48 hours of running time.

Read the full report in the April 2019 edition of MBY …

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2021 Silent Yachts Silent 55

Silent Yachts

Creators of the world’s first series produced, solar-powered electric yachts.

Unlimited Range

Noiseless cruising, zero emission, minimal maintenance, pioneering solar powered yachting since 2009.

The Original Solar Yacht

As the original inventors of series produced solar-electric yachts, we pioneered this innovative approach. Our first model, the Silent 64, was launched to the market in 2016, several years before any other shipyard considered the possibility of going electric.

Leading Technology

Our founders began to research alternative energy sources to power yachts during the mid 1990s. Today, the technology of our in-house developed solar-electric drivetrain has been perfected and is multiple generations ahead in terms of reliability, performance and efficiency.

Historical Track-Record

In 2009, the Solarwave 46 was launched as our first prototype of a fully solar-electric, self-sufficient ocean-going catamaran. Since then, our electric yachts have cruised many 10.000s of nautical miles, performing flawlessly during a variety of weather conditions.

Enabling Self-Sufficiency

What differentiates a Silent is the unprecedented level of autonomy provided by our yachts. Being able to produce your own energy enables a fully self-sufficient lifestyle on board. Travel the oceans sustainably while making them your infinite playground.

The award-winning entry to solar-electric yachts.

Timeless design meets state-of-the-art technology.

120 Explorer

The boldest expression of solar powered yachting yet.

What Makes Us Unique

The tranquility on board of our yachts is unique. A lack of noise, fumes and vibrations create a deep connection with the sea. Luxury and sustainability finally merged into a holistic experience, working hand in hand with nature by minimizing the impact on the marine environment without compromising comfort.

For optimal performance and efficiency, our solar-electric drivetrain integrates seamlessly with all onboard systems. Compared to fossil fuelled powertrains of motoryachts, electric powertrains have very few moving parts, resulting in minimal maintenance, maximum reliability and significantly lower running costs.

The ability to recharge your own batteries with the sun marks a new era of freedom. Depending on cruising speeds and weather conditions, a Silent has virtually unlimited range, enabling you to live a fully self-sufficient lifestyle on board. Unbound by the limitations of fossil fuels, you are free to explore the horizons.

The technology powering our yachts today has been pioneered by our founders almost three decades ago. Continuous upgrading and steady optimization of the entire system are some of the key reasons our in-house developed solar-electric drivetrain offers a comprehensive portfolio of assurances and warranties.

Why Silent Yachts

A sensible approach to yachting which works in self-sufficient harmony with nature and creates a completely new experience on board.

Tech Corner

Why a Solar Powered Yacht?

Let’s break down the advantages of harnessing the sun’s energy for yacht propulsion: solar power offers remarkable efficiency, significant environmental benefits, and an unmatched synergy with the yachting experience. Join us as we dive into the future of sustainable yachting and discover how solar-powered yachts are revolutionizing the seas.

Living on a Silent 62 Solar Electric yacht

Silent Yachts’ range is designed to harness the power of the sun, providing green energy and silent cruising. But what can owners truly expect? How much power does the Silent 62 use while cruising? In this article, we evaluate a typical day onboard the Silent 62, based on actual data from our yachts.

Silent Yachts’ shining debut at the Venice Boat Show 2024

Silent-Yachts emerges stronger under new ownership

New Silent Drivetrain

Tech shorts 2023

Electric power event on the water

Shipyard tour Italy by Michael & Heike

“The Tesla of the seas! An amazing founding couple, a highly innovative product as well as a really cool story behind it. Furthermore, a lot of love and attention has been invested into every single detail – truly impressive!” Frank Thelen / TV Personality, Founder, Angel Investor & Disruption Expert

While the present has brought us the dawn of smart cars, I strongly believe the future will bring us solar powered smart boats – and I definitely want to be at the frontline of that journey. Michael Jost / Former Head of Group Strategy of Volkswagen Group

The idea of sailing while charging your own battery is super powerful to me – solar powered sailing is the perfect love story! Jochen Rudat / Former Tesla Central Europa Director, Advisory Board Silent Group

Elon Musk single handedly forced an entire industry to go electric, as a matter of fact if they don’t all go electric now they will soon die. I would like to see the same thing happening for boating. You are not just selling boats – you are the actual leading edge of a crucial and much overdue revolution to sustainable transport!” Klaus Obermeyer / Emmy Award Winner

I am completely excited about solar catamarans. I knew before they are great but now I truly believe this is the future. After so many boats I’ve seen in over 18 years with Boote Exclusiv, this yacht truly blew my mind. Such a silent and peaceful cruising experience – just the way it should be. Martin Hager / Editor in Chief for Boote Exclusiv - Yachts

Silent 55 Green Power and Solar Panels

25 February 2019 Dominique SALANDRE New Boats , News 0

The Silent 55 is a new kind of boat which uses solar power via special panels, li-ion batteries and electric motors by Silent-Yachts. This boat sets a new trend in terms of ecologically oriented and careful yachting that respects nature and guarantees owners full comfort in total silence. Michael Köhler, CEO of SILENT-YACHTS, explained: “ Purely solar-powered yachts become a commercial reality now. Even if we keep a diesel generator on board our catamarans, this is for safety reasons. An owner of the SILENT 46, for instance, told me that he did not start a generator for the last two years despite he spends the whole summer on the boat with guests cruising around Greek islands. ” Köhler   adds: “ Solar is a more practical generator of power than wind, hydro-generation or other technology because the sun is much more reliable than the wind in the common holiday destinations. Most people are searching for a sunny – not for a windy – holiday destination. Hydro generation only works when the boat is being moved – not on anchor. When moving, the hydro generation reduces the speed in the same way as it generates energy minus the loss for friction and efficiency. It decelerates the boat twice as much as it generates power. Nobody can beat physics. The efficiency of the panels that we use in SILENT-YACHTS is 23%, which is strong in today’s world. We use Sunpower panels, by far the most efficient commercially available panels on the market. There is a perception that with time solar panels become less efficient. This is not an issue anymore. Sunpower guarantees  80%  efficiency after 25 years. Believe me, after that time span, you will be glad to change them voluntarily, as more efficient panels will be available for much less money. ”

Battery technology problem has also been passed. “ Advanced batteries allow SILENT catamarans to cruise day and night without stopping ”, comments Michael Köhler. “ As technology improves, we can go faster during the night and the batteries will be lighter due to higher energy density. ”

Configurations

The Silent 55is available in several power configurations to suit a variety of cruising applications. All of them stick to the SILENT-YACHTS philosophy of relyingmainlyon solar power for propulsion and onboard power needs.

The standard “Cruiser”   version of the Silent 55   has 2 x 30 kW turnable saildrives e-motors, while a more upgraded “E-Power”   version is equipped with 2 x 250 kW e-motors. There is also a “Hybrid Power”   version with 2 x 220 hp diesel engines and two 14 kW electric motors. A “Sailor”   version can be equipped with all the previously mentioned drivetrain configurations and is rigged with a mast and sails to provide additional propulsion in fair winds. With 30 high-efficiency solar panels rated for approximately 10 kilowatt-peak, the Silent 55 uses maximum power point tracking (MPPT) solar charge regulators and lithium batteries, which provide capacity for all-night cruising, while a 15-kVA inverter provides power for all household appliances. The systems requires hardly any maintenance and produce no fumes or noise. Because of that, the operational costs of the vessels are substantially lower compared to power yachts using more traditional propulsion systems. Michael Köhler, SILENT-YACHTS CEO, said “ What this represents to the yachtsman, among other features, is the ability to cruise for many hours at normal speed and throughout the entire day and evening at reduced speed. SILENT-YACHTS sets the standard for an entirely new feeling in yachting: No fuel. No maintenance. Pure solar-powered luxury. ”

DIFFERENT LAYOUTS 

The Silent 55 is available in five different layouts ranging from three to six staterooms with three or four heads. A full-width central owner’s stateroom is the centerpiece in three of the layouts, with guest staterooms located in port and starboard hulls. All staterooms offer double or twin berths, and all heads include a separate shower. Other layouts are available on request.

Construction

The Silent 55is built using vacuum-bagged resin infusion to create a lightweight glass-sandwich composite construction that has sound- and temperature-insulating qualities. The hull is reinforced with carbon fiber at stress points, and uses vinylester resin to prevent osmotic blistering.

The Silent 55   hull shape was designed using extensive tank testing for optimal efficiency. The molds were then created using CNC milling for true replication of the refined, enhanced shape in the tooling. The Silent 55   has a shape both above and below the waterline that is designed to slip through the wind and waves with minimal resistance. Designed with sealed deck sections and collision compartments for safety, the Silent 55 uses watertight bulkheads and integrated interior furniture to create a torsion-resistant hull structure. The electrical system can allow such features as a powered aft swim platform, a 1,500-watt electric windlass, and other features yachtsmen have come to expect on world-class oceangoing cruising yachts.

Onboard experience

Because the Silent 55   is designed to range everywhere as a true ocean-going cruising yacht that is self-sufficient, she is equipped to keep her crew happy and comfortable for virtually any voyage. It starts with the benefits of the propulsion system. The Silent 55   can cruise efficiently for up to 100 miles   a day for weeks. At the same time, the arrangement of the components enables the system to power all onboard systems without need of fuel to power a generator. Because of her revolutionary design, the Silent 55   travels just with the sound of the wind, and the water streaming past the hull, with no smoke, noise, or vibration of engines. “ The generator is only used to recharge the batteries in the rare case when higher speed is required for longer periods of time or if the weather is bad for several days,”  Köhler   says. In addition to the ergonomics of the living spaces, the Silent 55   – thanks to her advanced conveniences – offers a comfort level that sparks peace of mind. A water-maker powered by the solar-electric system, produces enough water to supply a full six-stateroom company with reasonable rate of consumption. 

On the Silent 55, all onboard appliances operate on the 220/110-volt system, to which her crew might be used to from their homes. The galley has refrigerator and freezer space to sustain the crew and an efficient induction cooktop, precluding the need for carrying propane.

“ Under normal, average holiday conditions, the boat is self-sufficient with unlimited range without burning fuel, ” Köhlersays. But perhaps even more importantly, the time under way is spent enjoying the sounds of wind and water, with no fumes or vibration, with no noise but the laughter of friends and family.

• Silent yachts
• solar panels

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This is a demo version of current model SY 55 and is now available for immediate  purchase. 

The Silent 55 solar-electric power catamaran combines green propulsion with luxury accommodations. Solar-powered and self-sustaining, it’s a 55-foot, ocean-going catamaran with four staterooms and heads. There is no engine noise or vibrations and the only mechanicals to service are the generators.

This is a fully optioned vessel with the most powerful E-Power+ propulsion option which combines the largest battery bank with the strongest electric motors available. Therefore higher speeds can be sustained for even longer periods of time while also maximizing the amount of energy which can be stored for back-up and deployed whenever needed. E-Power+ delivers the ultimate solar powered yachting experience.

Front-exit version with: - 6 Years warranty for the battery banks - 23 Years warranty for the solar panels - Lifetime warranty for the electric motors - 100% Solar powered - Unlimited cruising range - Lifetime maintenance-free motors - Noiseless and fume-less luxury navigation - No heat build-up - Highest quality materials & craftsmanship - Safest marine propulsion system

Built to CE-A standards, this amazing solar-powered catamaran is immediately available. 

Sistership pictured -see or call for full brochure on this model.

Premier Yachting, the exclusive agents for Silent Yachts in Australia, for comprehensive details on this vessel. 

Specifications:

Click an image to enlarge

Premier Yachting - © Copyright 2024 : Website by Xpose

XO EXPLR SERIES

Inspired by Nordic environment.

Introducing another great boat to our range of outstanding boats, the EXPLR 9 is the first of the second generation of boats to be launched. Making its debut at Boot Düsseldorf 2020 and improved 2021, EXPLR 9 comes with more width and volume than its predecessors, giving the boat extra stability and capacity.

With its accommodation capacities and weatherproof cover, EXPLR 9 is the perfect boat for the adventurers travelling in all corners of the planet. The boat can be installed with air-conditioning and a heater.

The renewed EXPLR 9 takes you to all new dimensions when it comes to driving comfort, multi-purpose use and design that fully pays attention to the versatile needs of modern boaters.

Cabin boats rarely provide the kind of driving convenience the full suspension seats of EXPLR 9 do – the co-pilot’s seat is available as an option. Speaking of convenience, the exceptionally spacious cabin is outright ideal for rest and relaxation that the extraordinary sound- proofing efficiently supports. A bed that stretches all the way to 230 cm, roomy and well-equipped toilet as well as a full-size refrigerator ensure that the crew can truly make the most of the time at sea, even during longer trips. Should the sunshine get too hot to handle, optional air-conditioning makes life in the cabin a sheer pleasure.

Bigger size, lighter weight, more spacious interior and a bit calmer personality do not translate into any compromises when it comes to EXPLR 9’s ability to perform. The pilot can truly make the most of an enjoyable ride in the sun by opening the roof hatch, standing up and letting the gentle summer wind blow.

The completely renewed EXPLR 9 takes you to all new dimensions when it comes to driving comfort, multi-purpose use and design.

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Trash to treasure: Cans, license plates, road signs make solar boat shine

A substantial 55-foot solar-electric sailing catamaran has been unveiled by German yacht design and engineering studio iYacht GmbH.

Named Hu’chu 55, the firm claims the vessel represents a significant leap forward in eco-friendly design. Its body is derived from over 90 percent scrap metal.

The vessel was designed on order for Daniel Roesner, a renowned actor, film producer, and environmental entrepreneur.

The aluminum developed especially for the Yacht utilizes scrap from license plates, road signs, cosmetic cans, and more. The firm claims the aluminum sheet’s CO2 footprint is reduced to under 2 kg CO2/kg, just one-eighth of the market average.

“We have designed and engineered a dozen multihulls in recent years, but the Hu’chu 55 represents a significant leap forward in terms of sustainability and circularity,” said Udo A. Hafner, CEO of iYacht’s, in a statement .

Versatile explorer

The Hu’chu 55’s design balances fast sailing capabilities with onboard comfort, making it ideal for living and working aboard. According to the firm, its robust construction suits high—and low-latitude navigation, crucial for ocean research like mapping global water quality.

Reinforced rudder axles and hulls withstand ice and collisions, while streamlined keels protect rudders and propellers during beaching. The iYacht team ensured dynamic stability and minimized pitching with ample wet deck clearance for smooth sailing.

Additional buoyancy reserves accommodate filmmaking equipment, crew, and diving gear. The Hamburg and Kiel firm provided comprehensive design, engineering, and construction services with a multidisciplinary team of over eight experts.

The interior of the boat is complimented with various tones of black and brown, while the exterior of the bare metal gives it a raw style appropriate for an explorer catamaran.

Sustainable sailing vessel

To reduce its environmental impact, the Hu’chu 55 makes considerable use of recyclable and recycled materials. In collaboration with a significant aluminum producer, Roesner, they created aluminum specifically designed for the Hu’chu 55, which is composed of more than 90 percent aluminum scrap and not a single pound of primary metal.

iYacht claims that due to the substantial integration of scrap, the material’s CO2 footprint is significantly reduced to less than 2 kg CO2/kg of aluminum sheet. This is a mere one-eighth of the market average—from discarded license plates, road signs, cosmetic cans, automotive and construction scraps, as well as shredded scrap from recycling and sorting plants.

The boat also uses recycled cork, salvaged wood, and natural fabrics. Daniel selected these materials because they are environmentally friendly and circular: using recycled and recovered materials closes the loop, lowers trash production, and gives these materials a second chance at life.

Renewable-powered catamaran

The design decision to increase the foresail area was complemented by the addition of two silent, vibration-free electric motors that provide propulsion when needed.

The vessel boasts ample battery capacity, exceeding 100 kWh, which can be recharged via solar panels and hydrogeneration. The latter utilizes the boat’s motion to spin the electric motor’s propellers, generating electricity through electromagnetic induction.

According to its maker, photovoltaic panels not only generate electricity but also reduce consumption by keeping the water heating system cool, maximizing efficiency. Renewable sources power the onboard vegetable garden, water treatment system, and all other energy needs, including the owner’s film editing room.

Emphasizing sustainability , Daniel insisted on avoiding high-energy air conditioning. Instead, the design team chose insulated glass, optimized shadow, and sun sheltering, and carefully studied ventilation systems to maintain comfort and energy efficiency.

In the future , Roesner aims to make partnerships with like-minded collaborators who share his vision for sustainable maritime practices. His goal is to scale up the production of the Hu’Chu, democratizing its technology to advance circularity in marine vessels.