catamaran zen 50

• 672 Wine Club
• Motorcycles
• Car of the Month
• Destinations
• Men’s Fashion
• Watch Collector
• Art & Collectibles
• Vacation Homes
• Celebrity Homes
• New Construction
• Home Design
• Electronics
• Fine Dining
• Gateway Bronco
• On Location – Olympic Games Paris 2024
• One&Only
• The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua
• Saratoga Spring Water
• Wynn Las Vegas
• Sports & Leisure
• Health & Wellness
• Best of the Best
• The Ultimate Gift Guide

This New Catamaran Blends Solar Power and a Giant Wingsail to Cruise the Seas 100% Emissions-Free

Zen 50 can cruise continuously at between 6–10 knots—without a generator in sight., rachel cormack.

Digital Editor

Rachel Cormack's Most Recent Stories

Lürssen’s newest superyacht is a 269-foot tri-deck behemoth.

• Brad Pitt’s New Formula 1 Flick Will Hit Movie Theaters Next Summer
• King Charles Has 5 Horses Competing in Royal Ascot This Week
• Share This Article

Zero Emission Nautic is living up to its name with its premier model.

The fledgling European yard, which was established only last year, has just unveiled a zero-emission catamaran designed to sail the high seas with unlimited range.

Penned by acclaimed naval architect Julien Mélot, the new ZEN 50 spans just over 50 feet and features racing hulls forged from lightweight carbon fiber. Tipping the scales at roughly 16 tons, the multihull is also equipped with a huge solar roof that generates up to 16 kW. As a result, the 50-footer has a solar power/weight ratio of 1:1, which is better than any other yacht in the class, according to ZEN. The clean, green energy, which is stored in a high-capacity 160 kWh main battery, powers two 40 kW electric motors that enable silent, emissions-free cruising.

Related Stories

• Koenigsegg Tells Jesko Owners to Stop Driving the Supercar Because One Caught Fire
• First Drive: The Powerful New Aston Martin DBX707 Takes the Lead in the Super-SUV Wars
• Private Aviation’s Top Firms Are in an Epic Battle for Your Business. Here Are the Perks They’re Offering.

ZEN 50 has a top speed of 14 knots.  Zero Emission Nautic

Furthermore, ZEN claims the flagship is the world’s first series-production catamaran to be fitted with a wingsail. Designed by Ayro , the OceanWings32 is essentially a range and speed extender. Fully automated, it can be hoisted and lowered with the simple touch of a button to harness more power from the wind. The shipyard says the addition will allow seafarers to cruise longer distances at greater speeds.

While running solely on the electric motors, ZEN 50 has a maximum speed of 10 knots. With the wingsail erected, however, it can reach 14 knots at full tilt. The self-sufficient cat can also cruise continuously at between 6 and 10 knots when using both the motors and the Wingsail.

The solar roof converts into a giant upper deck.  Zero Emission Nautic

Onboard, meanwhile, the cat offer an array of luxe amenities. The layout comprises three separate dining areas, a professional galley, saloon and two wet kitchens. There’s also accommodation for up to 12 guests in ensuite cabins. Elsewhere, the solar roof actually converts into a giant upper deck with sweeping views, while the 366-square-foot flybridge rivals that of an 80-foot motoryacht. To top it off, ZEN 50 requires no traditional fossil fuels. That’s not only great for the environment; it’s also easier on pocket.

“We wanted the ZEN to be a true solar boat,” Mélot said in a statement. “That’s why the first unit in construction is not equipped with any generator and will not carry a single drop of fossil fuel onboard.”

Indeed, even the tender aboard the first hull is electric and will be recharged by the mothership.

Zero emissions, indeed.

Check out more photos below:

Zero Emission Nautic

Rachel Cormack is a digital editor at Robb Report. She cut her teeth writing for HuffPost, Concrete Playground, and several other online publications in Australia, before moving to New York at the…

Read More On:

• Electric Yacht

More Marine

This 170-Foot Sportfishing Superyacht Is One of the World’s First—Here’s a Look Inside

This Sleek New 112-Foot Aluminum Superyacht Has an All-Glass Sky Roof

The World’s Largest Sportfishing Yacht Just Embarked on Its Maiden Voyage

The Grand UK Debut

JULY 17 - 19, 2024 Head to the British countryside to test and evaluate the top luxury and performance vehicles of 2024.

Give the Gift of Luxury

Latest Galleries in Marine

‘Haven’ Superyacht in Photos

Bluephire 34 in Photos

More from our brands, vernon, maluma cause chaos at kenzo, time for policy makers to think about sports differently, queen catalog to be acquired by sony music for £1 billion, climate change protesters arrested after spraying stonehenge with orange paint, the best yoga mats for any practice, according to instructors.

Yachting World

• Digital Edition

First look: Zen50 – innovative wingsail rig

• Rupert Holmes
• August 19, 2022

Rupert Holmes looks at the a new catamaran with an innovative wingsail and a vast solar array for sustainable cruising, the Zen50

Product Overview

How far is it possible to push the concept of this kind of yacht? Maltese firm Zero Emission Nautic has gone further than most with its Zen50, thanks to the desire to maximise the surface area for solar panels, plus an innovative wingsail rig that has its origins in America’s Cup technology.

It might be easy to dismiss this design as one that’s not a ‘proper’ yacht thanks to its styling, but the history of yacht design tells us shapes that were once considered unacceptable are often eventually adopted into the mainstream. This boat may yet be more representative of the future of cruising yachts than many of us are comfortable with right now!

Wingsail has been developed for leisure craft and at a larger scale for sail-assisted cargo ships

Lightweight carbon fibre and Corecell construction keeps the light displacement down to only 16 tonnes, despite the high freeboard, while the extended hardtops offer lots of shade and enough space for a massive 17kW of solar. That gives a generating capacity of more than 1kW per tonne of displacement, making this a vessel that can generate a significant proportion of the power needed to propel it at moderate speeds under power. As a result the boat can motor almost indefinitely at speeds between 6-10 knots.

The collapsible OceanWings wingsail concept was originally developed for Team Oracle in the 2010 America’s Cup. Since then it has been further developed and automated by French raceboat design office VPLP.

Zen50 specifications

LOA: 15.70m / 51ft 6in Beam: 8.40m / 27ft 7in Draught: 1.30m / 4ft 4in Displacement: 16,000kg / 35,280lb Price: from approx US$2,000,000 Builder: zenyachts.com

If you enjoyed this….

Yachting World is the world’s leading magazine for bluewater cruisers and offshore sailors. Every month we have inspirational adventures and practical features to help you realise your sailing dreams. Build your knowledge with a subscription delivered to your door. See our latest offers and save at least 30% off the cover price.

• Subscribe Now
• Digital Editions

ZEN 50 first look: This electric wingsail powercat is completely fossil-fuel free

• Electric boats
• Top stories

Claimed to be the world’s first true zero-emissions 50ft powercat, the ZEN 50 carries no fossil fuels whatsoever thanks to a host of innovative new technologies…

Exactly what is this strange-looking vessel? Is it a motor boat, a sailing yacht or something completely different? The answer lies somewhere between all three because although the ZEN 50 is at heart a solar-powered electric motorcat , it also has a small mast and sail.

However, this is no ordinary canvas rig but an automated wingsail that requires no previous sailing experience to operate.

Julien Melot, the ZEN 50’s designer, prefers to describe it as a “range and speed extender”, deliberately eschewing any sailing references in favour of a term usually reserved to describe the diesel-powered generators which most other solar-powered electric boats rely on to boost their limited speed and range.

In his view, resorting to a generator for this purpose is a bit of a cop-out that requires carrying and burning substantial quantities of fossil fuel, especially in low light conditions.

The ZEN 50 is entirely self-sufficient without the need for a generator or a single drop of fossil fuel – even the tender is battery-powered and charged by the mothership. Instead, it harvests its own energy from the sun and wind, making it the world’s first truly zero-emissions 50ft production powercat.

Speed of light

It all starts with a clean sheet design making full use of carbon fibre and Corecell sandwich construction to build a light but strong multihull shape with efficient hydrodynamics and the largest possible array of solar panels.

The ZEN 50’s dry displacement of 16 tonnes and peak solar output of 16kW are said to give it an unrivalled solar power to displacement ratio of 1:1.

The solar panels have a peak output of 16kW

This light, slippery hull shape also ensures it is easily driven by a pair of modest 40kW electric motors linked to saildrive legs and a substantial 160kWh lithium battery pack, giving it a top speed – under electric power alone – of 10 knots.

For many owners, this will be fast enough, and while the range will vary according to sun and sea conditions, ZEN claims it can cruise continuously at up to 4.5-5 knots without drawing on its battery reserves.

However, for those who want more speed and range and the added reassurance of a back-up propulsion system, buyers can also specify the optional OceanWings 32 wingsail.

The wingsail helps boost the speed and range of the electric motors and battery pack as well as providing additional redundancy

Designed and built by Ayro, it is the same system that was fitted to the experimental hydrogen-powered Energy Observer catamaran back in 2019 and has now benefitted from two years’ testing in the field.

Shaped like a two-piece vertical aeroplane wing rather than a traditional sail, the opposing surfaces create high pressure on one side and low pressure on the other to generate sideways ‘lift’, which the twin keels convert into forward motion.

This boosts the top speed to 14 knots but more importantly enables cruising speeds of 6-10 knots under solar and sail power alone.

Slender reverse-angle bows and carbon-fibre build maximise efficiency under sail and power

Developed primarily for ease of use rather than speed, it has an electrically powered free-standing mast with no additional rigging to clutter the decks.

The two sail sections, which form the semi-rigid wing, raise and lower electronically too, and all the trimming and adjustments are taken care of automatically.

The helm simply has to steer the boat and decide how much additional electric drive to dial in. Any excess solar power is then stored in the main battery bank.

A second 10kWh back-up battery ensures there is always enough power to run the boat’s systems, including the wingsail, nav gear and communications.

Life of luxury

Any concerns that all this zero-emissions tech might restrict the comforts of life aboard or prove too fragile for extended cruising are countered by the ZEN 50’s impressive stats.

It is Category A rated for offshore cruising and can sleep as many as 12 people across six cabins and two convertible sofas.

The beamy saloon is ideal for liveaboard cruising

However, private buyers are more likely to opt for the owner version with its luxurious master suite occupying most of the starboard hull – with no big engines or generators to accommodate, the full length of both hulls can be used for accommodation.

Nor does the lack of fossil fuel limit the fun you can have at anchor; as well as the electric tender you can add a dive compressor, e-foil board , Seabob or any number of other toys.

The only visible hurdle we can see is the ZEN 50’s rather uncompromising looks dictated by the two large arrays of solar panels doubling as sunshades for the flybridge and foredeck.

If you can live with this, then the dream of a genuine zero-emissions motoryacht is well on the way to being realised.

The first ZEN 50 is already in build and, once completed, ZEN will calculate the carbon footprint of the construction process as well with a view to achieving net zero by 2030.

ZEN 50 specifications

LOA: 51ft 6in (15.7m) Beam: 26ft 7in (8.4m) Displacement: 16 tonnes Draught: 4ft 3in (1.3m) Motors: 2 x 40 kW electric saildrive Batteries: Main 160 kWh, Back-up 10 kWh Top speed: 10 knots (electric only), 14 knots (electric and wingsail) Cruising speed: 8-10 knots (day time) Range over 24h: 180nm RCD category: A for 12 persons

First published in the June 2022 issue of MBY.

The wingsail is raised and lowered electrically. Automatic adjustment means no previous sailing experience is required to operate it

The combination of solar electric and wingsail power are said to make this the first true zero emmissions cruising powercat, bluegame bgm75 sea trial: the €6.8m powercat that thinks its a monohull, what we know so far about enata’s designer foiling motor boat, vatoz, fjord 39 first look: maximised space and amenities, latest videos, cormate chase 32 tour: fast, stylish and practical weekender, axopar 29 sea trial: sun top vs cross cabin – which is best, sunseeker ocean 182 – see how this compact superyacht copes in a wet and windy sea trial.

Solar power

Electric boats.

• Electric Yachts

ZEN Yachts sells its first ZEN50 electric catamaran featuring solar roof, automated wingsail, and plans for Starlink internet

Infant electric boat manufacturer, ZEN Yachts, has announced its first US order for its flagship ZEN50 solar electric catamaran . The zero-emission sailing yacht is currently under construction in Europe and will arrive with some pretty luxurious features including two kitchens, a high-tech fully-automated wingsail, and Starlink internet from SpaceX.

ZEN Yachts is short for “Zero Emission Nautic Ltd. – an ocean-friendly boat manufacturer founded in 2021 and incorporated in Malta. To help propel the popularity of zero-emission yachts both on and off the water, the company has combined wind sailing with electric propulsion.

That begins with the ZEN50, the company’s recently announced 50+ foot solar electric catamaran currently being built near Barcelona, Spain. The 12-passenger electric yacht features 2 x 40kW brushless DC motors, powered by a 160 kWh lithium battery pack.

The main pack is supported by an entire rooftop of solar panels, offering a peak power of 16 kW, allowing the ZEN50 to cruise at 4.5-5 knots using the power of the sun alone. The electric propulsion system is backed by an Oceanswings OWS 3.2 wingsail by Ayro , making the ZEN yacht the first series production leisure craft to feature this fully-automated wingsail technology.

With its first catamaran hull on the way, ZEN Yachts has announced its first customer, and they should be sailing in the US soon.

First ZEN Yachts customer should be sailing in early 2023

According to the press release announcing ZEN Yacht’s first sale, the ZEN50 was designed from scratch with a slew of unique technology. For instance, the full-carbon catamaran is lightweight enough that, combined with its 1:1 solar power versus displacement ratio (16 kW / 16 tons), it is completely energy self-sufficient.

Award-winning naval architect Julien Mélot, who designed the ZEN50, elaborated on what the company means when it describes the vessel as a no compromise zero-emission catamaran :

The majority of solar catamarans currently on the market are equipped with a large generator, making them de facto hybrid diesel-solar-electric boats. They offer great speeds in a variety of conditions but are less eco-friendly than true zero-emission vessels. We wanted the ZEN to be a true solar boat, that’s why the first unit in construction is not equipped with any generator and will not carry a single drop of fossil fuel onboard (indeed even the tender is electric and recharged by the mother vessel).

In addition to providing endless energy for at sea voyages, ZEN Yachts explains that the ZEN50 can also be equipped with other zero-emission tech such as a dive compressor, e-foil, electric jet board, or even an electric water maker.

Inside one of the boat’s multiple hulls, the captain and their passengers will be able to relax in two large day beds, three dining areas, multiple ensuite cabins, and a saloon. To stay in touch during long, energy self-reliant trips at sea, the electric yacht maker is also hoping to eventually include satellite internet from SpaceX’s Starlink … emphasis on eventually. Here’s an official statement from ZEN Yachts:

Our first Client wants Starlink installed on his yacht. Based on announcements by SpaceX, this tech will become available for RV and marine applications. Therefore, we will install it on the ZEN50 of our first client (and likely others) when it becomes available. As the first ZEN50 is only due for sea trials in Spring ’23 and Transatlantic crossing later that year or the following, there’s hope on ZEN Yachts’ side that Starlink for marine applications will be available by then.

Traveling on electric propulsion alone might be tough at sea, even with the solar backup. That’s where the OceanWing wingsail comes in. Combined with the e-motor, the ZEN50 can reach a max speed of 14 knots (~16 mph). For continuous cruising, the wingsail and solar panels combine to deliver 6-10 knots of speed (7-11.5 mph). All three technologies combine in the ZEN50 yacht to deliver over 180 nautical miles of range over a 24-hour span.

As you may have noticed from the images above, our only glimpse of the ZEN50 so far is company renderings. Zen Yachts said it expects to complete and deliver the first solar electric sailing yacht early next year. As soon as the first hull leaves the mold, the company is building a second one.

Additionally, Zen Yachts is opening a showroom in Barcelona’s Marina Vela, set to open in April of 2022. Perhaps we can get out there for a visit, although it might be easier to wait for the ZEN50 to arrive to that customer in the US… whoever that might be.

Lastly, the company said it is still calculating the overall carbon footprint of producing the ZEN50 and will make that information public when it’s totaled. Regardless, Zen Yachts has already committed to reaching a net-zero carbon footprint by 2030.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

Scooter Doll is a writer, designer and tech enthusiast born in Chicago and based on the West Coast. When he’s not offering the latest tech how tos or insights, he’s probably watching Chicago sports. Please send any tips or suggestions, or dog photos to him at [email protected]

Manage push notifications

BoatNews.com

Zen 50, the first electro-solar pleasure catamaran equipped with a wing sail

After its debut in regattas and then prototypes on smaller boats, the OceanWings, developed by the French company Ayro from the naval architecture firm VPLP, is going to be installed on a first pleasure boat. It is a 15.7 m electro-solar catamaran, the Zen 50.

Propose solar electric boats without any generator

The Zen 50 is the first production catamaran to incorporate a 32 m Oceanwing wing 2 . This boat built in carbon fiber was designed by the architect Julien Mélot. He has been working for about ten years in the design of hydrogen , solar and electric propulsion boats.

"We realized that solar works very well as long as the surface of the panels is sufficient while keeping the boat light. This system works very well for coastal navigation. On paper, these boats are also capable of crossing the Atlantic and can navigate 24 hours a day in autonomy. But in practice, this is not always the case, especially if there is significant cloud cover. And we don't want to cheat by installing a big generator on board to recharge the batteries. We want to build boats that use only renewable energy, no fuel, no pollution." explains Julien Mélot.

A high-performance carbon fiber catamaran

The Zen 50 is the first model of the Zen Yachts brand. Built in carbon, it has a hull shape designed for fast cruising, with a slender profile and inverted bows. The bows are made of a carbon fiber sandwich with a foam core. A huge roof is equipped with solar panels of up to 16,000 watts. On top of this, a 34 m2 living area is integrated, as on a flybridge , itself topped by a hard-top. A maximization that weighs down the look of the boat and may question the aerodynamic performance under sail .

The surface of panels associated with a 160 kWh battery park gives the catamaran a high autonomy. The two 40 kW engines ensure a cruising speed between 6 and 10 knots on average, with peaks at 14 knots, a constant maximum speed calculated under sail and with engines at full throttle.

An OceanWings wing to increase autonomy

To respect this "zero emission" philosophy and to offer an additional propulsion system, the shipyard has partnered with the French company Ayro to equip its catamaran with an OceanWings32 wing , initiated for Team Oracle for the 2010 America's Cup , before being developed and automated by VPLP and installed on Energy Observer in 2019. It is nevertheless an option, which the first unit will be equipped, the Zen 50 being completely autonomous without a wing sail , and capable of sailing independently of the sunshine thanks to its large battery pack and without a generator. Under engine only, the Zen 50 reaches a maximum speed of 10 knots and 5 knots continuously.

"The first unit is under construction in the south of Barcelona, Spain. At first we were interested in kitesurfing, but it soon proved difficult to handle for customers who are not sailors but are interested in technology and the ecological aspect. They are looking for a system that is simple to use and can be managed autonomously. In this sense, our second option was the wing sail. From a technical point of view, the wing generates less shadow on the panels than a traditional rig" explains Julien Mélot.

This collaboration allows Ayro to enter the yachting sector. The wing will be the same as the ones used on the Energy Observer research boat, while the user interface will be adapted to the yachting sector. Some features will also be added to facilitate its use. Built in France by Ayro's teams, the wing will then be assembled to the boat by a plug&play system in Barcelona .

Several design versions

Concerning the layout of the Zen 50, it offers several versions. The owner's version reserves the port hull for the owner's suite. Two other versions are suitable for family or charter use with 4 double cabins and 4 private bathrooms or 4 double cabins, a single cabin and a cabin with bunk beds.

In the saloon/cockpit, too, the layout can vary according to the owner's wishes. There is a choice of a lounge, a dining room, a large chart table. The interior will be more in a minimalist style, with freedom in materials and arrangements for the customer.

3 versions and a range to come

The Zen 50 is offered in 3 versions: Racer, Cruiser, Explorer (depending on the options chosen) with or without wing . A version that owners prefer for short cruises.

Zen Yachts will introduce the Zen 40 and Zen 45 before this summer and the first units will be deliverable in 2024. The Zen 65 H2 will be introduced in 2023 and available for delivery in 2025. The brand also plans to increase production capacity. 1 boat is currently in production and is already sold and Zen Yachts will start the production of the second unit in a few months. In 2023, Julien Mélot expects 4 boats, then 8 in 2024.

Price : from 1euros822euros580 euros for an Ocean Racer version (solar and wing ).

THE ZEN50 EXPLAINED

What is the philosophy behind the design of the ZEN50?

The ZEN50 has been designed from the ground up to be a true blue-water, zero-emission, comfortable fast cruiser.

Hydrodynamically, there is no doubt the ZEN50 hulls have been designed akin to those of performance/racing catamarans. No compromise on water resistance has been made. The lightweight reverse bow hulls are sharp as knives and ensure minimal drag while the clearance wing deck – water line is exceptionally high. To maintain great comfort and habitability in the hulls, a chine has been incorporated on the inboard side of the hulls, offering the best of both worlds. The hulls are designed to be built in light composite materials and feature a crash proof design with crash boxes forward/aft and watertight keels in case of accidental impact.

The electric propulsion train is made of the best and most efficient components on the market and uses keel protected saildrives for higher efficiency & compactness.

In order to maximize the solar energy harvest, the ZEN50 boasts a vast solar roof whose footprint is about the same as that of the vessel’s deck. Indeed, elegant roof forms follow energy capture function while also incorporating a rain water recovery system doubling as a gigantic top deck for sun lounging, functions, yoga and other leisurely activities (preferably outside the hottest hours of the day). Energy storage is taken care of with a high energy density large capacity battery bank with high level of redundancy.

The ZEN50 checks the two fundamentals of a true solar boat with a minimized energy consumption thanks to ultra-efficient lightweight hulls and propulsion train on the one hand and a maximized solar roof area for solar energy harvest on the other.

In addition to those unique features, the ZEN50 is the first production leisure craft in history to boast a fully automated semi-rigid wingsail. This “OW32” wingsail is an absolute game changer as it does not require any specific sailing skills thanks to its fully automated and touch screen controlled operation. The OW32 is designed and manufactured by Ayro, a spin-off of the world class yacht design and naval architecture bureau VPLP. It is an offspring of the Oracle wingsail that changed the course of sailing history forever during the America’s Cup of 2010 in Valencia and its overwhelming victory over the conventionally rigged multi-hull Alinghi.

Special attention has been paid to the user experience: Unequaled volumes above deck for a vessel this size, seamless interaction with the environment with great access to the sea, multiple lounge spaces on the main deck and flybridge, easy to launch yet lightweight electrical tender, full suite of diving gear and compressor. The ZEN50 also offers up to 4 guests double cabins, 2 individual crew cabins, 2 convertible tables into beds and 5 heads.

Who designed the ZEN50?

The ZEN50 has been designed from a blank slate by Award Winning Solar Boat Designer Julien Mélot. Julien is an Engineer in Electro-Mechanics and a Naval Architect who is passionate about merging renewable energy technologies and marine design. He has spent over a decade designing and building electric, solar & hydrogen boats. Julien received multiple acknowledgments for his work and designs, among others, the Awesome Foundation, Singapore Chapter, prize for a full solar trimaran design , the Solar Impulse and Efficient Solution labels for his solar-powered plastic collector catamaran “PlakMan 28” , the first Gustave Trouve Electric Boat Award in the 8+m category for his full solar cruising catamaran “Aquanima 40” and the list goes on. Julien has also managed the build of the first ever true hybrid tug boats with 4 units of escort tug boats successfully delivered to Svitzer Australia capable of cruising 2 hours with all engines off purely relying on a large Li-Ion battery bank. He has also designed and implemented the first auxiliary solar energy system on a large ferry in Singapore . With this long and unique experience in the field, Julien is considered an authority in the field and is often invited to talk at world class conferences (e.g. Electric & Hybrid Marine World Expo; ADB’s Asia Clean Energy Forum ; YARE “Green Agenda” Captain’s Forum) and contribute to world class yachting magazines (e.g. World of Yachts). For the ZEN50 design, Julien has received support from the famous naval architecture and yacht design bureau “VPLP” to optimize hull shapes, simulate multiple sailing scenarios and validate technical choices and design orientations.

What are the characteristics of a true solar boat?

Solar boats come in all shapes, forms and technical specifications. A true solar boat is a boat that is powered only from the sun and has therefore no need for either shore charging or the usage of an onboard genset (except for emergency situations of course) to cruise indefinitely at reasonable speeds. The solar energy harvested between dusk and dawn should be sufficient for the propulsion as well as all the hotel loads. In other words, a real solar boat does not hide a powerful genset and a large diesel tank and is energetically self-contained. Boats equipped with solar panels and large gensets are de facto hybrid diesel-solar-electric boats which is a different category and is not as eco-friendly.

Why the wingsail?

The implementation of a wingsail on a solar-electric yacht represents the epitome of renewable energy usage for yacht propulsion. Often indeed, when there is no sun, there is wind, or there is both. Adding a wingsail reduces slightly the energy harvested due to the shade of the wing (by an estimated 20% factor when the sail is raised) but it offers a remarkable boost as soon as the wind speed reaches 6 knots and above. This allows the ZEN50 to sail consistently at high speeds while lowering the energy usage for propulsion and requiring no specific sailing skills. The sail offers more safety for open ocean passages as it allows the ZEN50 to increase speed as a front approaches and escape from adverse weather conditions while also offering more comfort by reducing the roll motion when in use. Furthermore, a wingsail does not require any stays or ropes and is fully automated.

Is the ZEN50 a true solar yacht, even with the wingsail?

As explained in the design philosophy above, the ZEN50 is as much of a true solar boat as it gets. Its ratio of solar power / displacement is by far the highest available on the market. The addition of the wingsail does not make this fact any less true.

What is the speed of the ZEN50?

On solar energy only, the ZEN50 has a continuous - this is 24/7 - of 5 knots with clear or lightly overcast skies, calm seas and normal hotel loads.

For day trips and no special attention paid to the energy remaining in the battery pack when coming back to berth, this speed goes up to 7 knots.

With the wingsail, clear to lightly overcast skies, calm seas, light to medium winds and normal hotel loads, the cruising speed varies between 6 and 9 knots - mostly depending on the wind.

With stronger winds, Force 4 to 6, the ZEN50 cruises at between 8 and 12 knots.

The top speed with strong winds and maximum electrical propulsive power is around 14 knots.

What is the expected Atlantic crossing time of the ZEN50 and is it safe to undertake open ocean passages with this yacht?

The estimated Atlantic crossing time is between 15 and 20 days. The ZEN50 is designed for unrestricted sailing and special attention has been paid to the safety of its passengers making it a very safe vessel while retaining its uncompromised zero-emission unique characteristics.

What is the range of the ZEN50 on solar only (no wind or wingsail)?

The ZEN50 has a true “infinite range at a continuous speed over 5 knots”. This vessel does not require recharging or refueling stops and can sail indefinitely while offering comfort and safety to its crew, produce its own water and offer a lot of fun and limitless adventure experience.

At higher speeds, the hulls displace greater quantities of water and similarly to cars, the resistance to the forward motion - surge - increases exponentially with the speed - exactly with the square value of the speed. Therefore, the range of the ZEN50 follows an exponential curve along the speed values. Translating these graphs into energy consumption and with calm seas and moderate solar irradiance, a 10-knot speed can be sustained for approximately 2 hours while an 8-knot speed can be kept for 10+ hours, 7-knot for 18+ hours, 6-knot for 30+ hours and 5-knot indefinitely.

What happens when there is "no sun"?

First of all, let us deconstruct the “no sun” myth. Unless we enter a volcanic eruption apocalypse, the only sure thing about tomorrow is that the sun will rise. From this point, we can look at various scenarios relevant to the “no sun” question:

- Sailing in polar regions during winter: No one would want to do that unless forced to and this is not recommended to do with a solar boat. It is akin to consciously going cruising on a sailing yacht in an area where you know beforehand there will be no wind.

- Night: The battery bank is dimensioned to store sufficient energy to sail way past a long night at cruising speeds defined in the ZEN50 user manual, including the use of all required navigation equipment and hotel loads (fridges, freezers, air conditioning, etc.).

- Heavily overcast skies: It is important to understand that solar panels do not require direct sunlight to produce electrical power. Rather, it is the photons (light) in the UV’s that create an electrical current when they hit the photovoltaic wafers. It follows then that even with overcast skies, there is a residual power production, the magnitude of which depending on the thickness - opacity - of the cloud cover.

- In conclusion, during day time, there is never “no power production” from the solar roof, rather a possibly reduced one.

An interesting fact to note is that a thin cloud cover actually disperses the UV’s more homogenously than a clear sky and it is not rare to witness the solar roof producing 10 to 15% more power in those conditions than its rating.

What if I have no sailing skills?

The ZEN50, whether with or without wingsail is akin to a motor boat. Evidently, it is recommended - and often mandatory - to have a skipper certification or to hire a certified captain to sail any boat, be it engine or sail powered.

However, operating the wingsail does not require any “sailing” experience, as in no skills related to managing the sails of a sailing yacht. The ZEN50 takes care of everything wingsail related and all you have to do is move a cursor on a screen to request more or less power from the wingsail.

Should I choose the ZEN50 with or without wingsail?

This choice is to be based both on your intended operation profile and budget. If you intend to cruise around the world across oceans and want to do so without having to use a genset ever, we recommend the wingsail.

If you, however, intend to use your ZEN50 as a coastal cruiser, for afternoons or weekends at sea at medium speeds or high speeds between multiple stops but without long open sea passages, the wingsail becomes optional. It would allow higher speeds but would add a cost of approximately USD 480,000 / EUR 425,000.

Lastly, if you cannot afford the wingsail but really want to sail around the world with the ZEN50, then the use of a small heavy duty genset onboard is inevitable and you should be comfortable with the fact that sometimes, you will have to fire up your genset. Note that thanks to its ultra-efficient design, the ZEN50 only requires a 20 kW genset to offer safe ocean passages.

What is the difference between the ZEN50 and other solar or electric yachts?

The ZEN50 makes no compromise when it comes to:

- Zero-emissions

- Infinite range

- Continuous sailing at safe and enjoyable speeds

Hybrid solar electric vessels are fantastic and offer great speeds in a wide range of environments whilst being less eco-friendly than actual zero-emission vessels.

In conclusion, there is no “perfect” boat. Or rather, each vessel is perfect for its intended purpose as long as its limitations and characteristics are well understood by its owner.

You claim the ZEN50 offers infinite range at high speeds. How do I know this is true and that there isn't a large genset required to drive the boat as soon as batteries are depleted?

You know it’s true if you believe that the first unit under production is not equipped with any genset whatsoever and will not have a single drop of fossil fuel. It is as simple as that. For those who intend to sail around the world or undertake long open sea passages, the wingsail replaces the genset to give a boost and save energy when solar irradiance is low or non existant.

Why don’t you install large wind turbines or hydro turbines to generate electrical power?

The answer is more complex than it seems but the common basic explanation for both type of turbines is that they create drag - either aerodynamic or hydrodynamic - and therefore act as brakes and slow down the vessel in adverse conditions - wind and/or current.

The wingsail is far more efficient than wind turbines. Best in class wind turbines are offered as an option and can be a useful addition when at anchorage / mooring / alongside or when the wind angle is between 90 and 270°. To be consistent with the understanding that wind turbines are helpful but not in all conditions, the optional wind turbines of the ZEN50 have a portable design.

The same logic applies to hydro-turbines - or hydro-generators. It would make no sense to use them while motoring - as energy losses would be greater than gains - but they are a good addition when mostly powered by the wingsail or at a mooring with (very) strong currents. Like the wind turbines, the ZEN50 option list contains high end, portable, hydro-generators for those who deem them important.

Why don’t you install solar cells in the body of the ZEN50?

While this is a good idea to maximize the solar harvest from every surface of the boat, it also comes with multiple disadvantages:

- It increases drastically the complexity of build and therefore the cost of the vessel, raising the entry barrier for new eco-sailors

- It increases the complexity and the risk of failure of the electrical installation. The solar cells are more exposed than on a solar roof and their replacement is costly and complex.

- It renders almost impossible the upgrade of the solar cells when they become obsolete (large areas of the boat would have to be scraped off and re-built)

- It increases the overall weight of the vessel, therefore its energy consumption, therefore its need for more solar cells while providing little output. Vertical cells will indeed capture substantially less solar energy than horizontal cells will. In addition, it is inevitable that part of those cells - half or more to be exact - will at any time be shaded and therefore produce nothing or close to nothing, being extra weight to be carried.

Why composite materials and why not aluminium?

Because they are lighter and offer greater freedom of forms, a very welcomed flexibility when it comes to shape the hulls for the highest possible efficiency without any constructive compromise.

What is the carbon footprint of the ZEN50?

Special attention has been paid since the early design stage to minimize the carbon footprint of the ZEN50 fabrication by optimizing the structure layout, selecting the most advanced carbon fiber and choosing, whenever sensible and possible, sustainable materials - e.g. cork decking, bamboo indoor lining, etc. By optimizing the structure and reducing the weight, less materials go into the fabrication of the ZEN50 and naturally, the carbon bill lessens.

However, it is honest to say that the overall carbon footprint of the ZEN50 fabrication will be only slightly lower or similar to any other performance carbon catamaran this size with the addition of a battery bank similar to that of a large electrical car. The exact numbers are compiled as the construction of the first unit goes and will be made public once the build is complete.

It is ZEN Yachts commitment to improve on the fabrication footprint of our yachts until reaching net zero before 2030.

Will there be a version of the ZEN50 with organic materials?

Yes, using mostly basalt fiber - close to Kevlar in mechanical properties but 100% carbon neutral if procured from the right supplier - in conjunction with water-based resin and recycled core or organic core.

Where do you build the ZEN50?

The ZEN50 is built in Spain in an ISO certified boatyard with highly skilled labor.

What about maintenance?

The ZEN50 requires substantially less maintenance than any vessel with diesel engines, be it direct drives or generators. It also requires less regular bilge cleaning thanks to the complete absence of fuel onboard. Gone are the choked tanks and fuel pumps, the regular oil and filter changes, the issues with exhaust pipes. Solar panels, wingsail, electric motors and batteries are all maintenance-free and accessible from anywhere for troubleshooting and over the air upgrades.

What about the warranty?

Standard factory warranty terms, e.g. 8 years warranty on the hull structure, 10 years on the solar panels, 8 years on the batteries.

When will I be able to see, touch and trial a ZEN50?

The first ZEN50 is estimated to be launched in summer 2024. Make sure to join our online community and subscribe to our newsletter to be kept closely informed on all details of the build and the exact date of launch and sea trials. As a ZEN50 online community member, you will also have the opportunity to book one of the first slots to join the sea trials of the first unit.

ORDERING A ZEN50

Can I order a ZEN50?

Yes you can order a ZEN50!

What is the ordering process like?

In order to secure your spot on the production line, you will be asked to pay a refundable EUR 25,000 reservation deposit. In the next 3 following months, a non-refundable design and specification deposit of EUR 25,000 will be requested to finalize your custom boat layout, materials and specification. Once those are approved, the contract can be signed and the first instalment is paid to ZEN.

How do I make sure my ZEN50 investment is safe?

The ZEN purchase contracts are structured in such a way that instalments cover the value created and you as our Client, retain ownership of whatever portion of the vessel that has been built, equipment purchased, etc. We also offer an optional financial cover with the paid-up amounts being escrowed throughout the production of the yacht.

What is the lead delivery time if I order tomorrow?

Currently, the total lead delivery time from first contact to delivery is estimated around 16 months.

Do you offer financing and will you support me with registering, insuring and operating my ZEN50?

Our Charter division is currently preparing packages to support you in your ZEN eco-yacht ownership and will be ready to assist by Q3 2023.

OWNING A ZEN50

Can my ZEN50 generate passive income?

Yes, through our ZEN Ownership Programme, our ZEN Charter division will ensure constant income is generated through the charter and management of your ZEN yacht whenever you are not using it and there is a charter demand.

FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS

Will you incorporate H2 (hydrogen) fuel cells in future vessels?

Yes, ZEN will start taking orders for the ZEN65 Hydrogen starting 2024.

ZEN’s VISION OF SUSTAINABILITY AND THE FUTURE OF MARINE MOBILITY

How does the design of the ZEN50 support the sustainability vision?

When designing our yachts, we focus on sizing the structural layout and creating a highly efficient hull, reducing the energy needed to propel our ZEN yachts. Attention goes all the way to details such as optimising cable lengths on board to minimise use of material and weight.

What are the engineering and materials used for the ZEN50?

Instead of heavy fiberglass, we’re using carbon for our hulls. Whenever sensible and possible, sustainable materials - e.g. cork decking, bamboo indoor lining, basalt fiber etc. For the future, we are actively exploring alternative battery technologies to reduce the environmental, social and safety risks associated with lithium-ion batteries.

Where is the production facility?

We are working to build our own shipyard, which will aim to be carbon negative over time – meaning it will offset more carbon emissions than it produces. We plan to build the yard using sustainable and upcycled materials with the aim of showing a new industrial model is possible if thought through carefully from the first napkin sketches.

What is the procurement policy of ZEN?

As an integral part of and decision factors in our procurement policy and process, we take the environmental footprint of our suppliers and logistics into account, and we choose the greenest alternative whenever possible.

As employees of ZEN we agree to behave in certain ways, this goes from the coffee we drink in the office to the transport we use to commute to work.

What would it look like if all current polluting boats & yachts were replaced by true, uncompromising, eco-friendly ZEN Yachts, driven by nature caring owners?

Ranging from toxic discharges, to noise, CO2 or waste disposal, marine pollution is putting unsustainable pressure on the most vital ecosystems of our planet. We envision a world where humans could roam the oceans of our blue planet on safe and reliable boats, yachts or large vessels that are solely powered by the sun and wind and are driven by conscious skippers, aware of their important responsibility in preserving life on Earth.

I am sold, I want to Reserve my ZEN

More questions contact zen.

Everything electric boats and boating

ZEN50 solar electric catamaran with wingsail

  Boats / ZEN Yachts

ZEN50 The ZEN50 is a game changer. World’s first series production catamaran equipped with a wingsail, it defines a new distinctive class of its own, where genuine zero-emission meets high comfort and performance, limitlessly.

Designed from scratch for ZEN Yachts by award-winning naval architect Julien Mélot, this full carbon catamaran is the ultimate essence of technology driven, high performance and luxurious, eco-friendly leisure yachting.

The blue water capable ZEN50 lightweight racing carbon hulls are combined with a huge solar roof for an unrivaled 1:1 solar power versus displacement ration (16 kW / 16 tonnes), making this yacht completely energy self-sufficient.

A revolutionary, fully automated, wingsail – by Ayro© – can be added as a range and speed extender. The yacht’s high capacity battery bank powers a powerful silent electric propulsion, allowing the ZEN50 to achieve 14 knots and maintain high continuous speeds in unrivaled safety and comfort, indefinitely…

The ZEN50 is offered with or without wingsail and comes in 3 main different version: Racer, Cruiser and Explorer, each dedicated to a different usage and owner profile. We use these versions as a basis to define a final, bespoke specification for each of our valued clients and ZEN Community Members.

EQUIPMENT INCLUDED – RACER VERSION (Cruiser & Explorer versions carry additional equipment )

• Integrated power management system • Solar power & energy storage system • Electric propulsion system • By-wire steering system • Helm stations at cockpit & flybridge • Galley counters, storage, sink, oven, stove, fridge, freezer • 4 en suite heads with enclosed shower, toilet, sink & faucet (in each head) • All cabin furniture (as shown in layouts) • Aft deck fixed dining table and aft sofa with collapsible back rest (as shown in layouts) • Fore deck day bed and lateral seats (as shown in layouts) • Outdoor marine cork decking / indoor saloon natural bamboo decking • All cushions In/Outdoor upholstered with Sunbrella® fabric • 6 deck hatches • 2 x 500 liter (2 x 132 gal) fresh water tanks • 2 x 100 liter approx. (2 x 26 gal) fresh water tanks + 1 fresh water pump • 2 x 350+ liter approx. (2 x 92 gal) holding tanks • Railings, cleats and fore deck trampolines • Mooring equipment: 33 kg Rocna® stainless steel anchor + 50 m stainless steel chain 10 mm + 150 m nylon rope + e-windlass • Regulatory navigation equipment including navigation lights & mast • 2 x chart plotter 16”; 2 x VHF with DSC button • Regulatory Life Saving Appliances • Critical spare parts kit

• Listing ID : 20443
• Price : Please use the 'Contact this listing owner' form on the right of this page.
• Condition : New - Available for Order
• Boat Type : Catamaran, Sailboat, Solar
• Manufacturer : ZEN Yachts
• Boat Model : ZEN50
• CE Design Category : Category A – Ocean
• Year : 2022
• Hull Material : Carbon Fibre
• Length : 15.7m
• Beam : 8.4m
• Draft : 1,3m (4.3ft) incl. keel
• Displacement : (Light) : 16 tonnes
• Motor Type : Saildrive
• Number of Motors : 2 x 50 kW brushless DC motors; Saildrives
• Top Speed : Max. Speed on e-motor only: 10 kn • Max. Speed on e-motor & Wingsail: 14 kn
• Cruising Speed : Cruising Speed for continuous operation - solar only: 4.5 - 5 kn • Cruising Speed for continuous operation - solar and wing: 6 - 10 kn • Cruising Speed day time: 8 - 10 kn
• Range Cruising Speed : Range Over 24 h: 180+ nm
• Motor Technology : BLDC (Brushless DC)
• Voltage : Main System Voltage: 48V - Low voltage for total human safety • Accommodation Voltage: 110V or 220V
• Battery Chemistry : Lithium
• Battery Capacity : 160 kWh Lithium, Backup Battery Pack Capacity (Nav/Com/Wing): 5 kWh Lithium
• Solar Panels : Solar Roof Peak Power: 17 kWp
• Passengers : 12
• Cabins (Custom) : 4 x double + 2 x single + saloon
• Check all listings by this user
• Add to favourites

Barcelona, Spain Europe   Show phone number +34.667.34.26.94   https://www.zenyachts.com/

Discover more from Plugboats

Subscribe to get the latest posts to your email.

Type your email…

• ← TEMO·450 and TEMO·1000 – Navigator Boats – Canada
• Electric Outboards, Pods and Inboards by E-TECH →

Get all the latest electric boats and boating news delivered to your mailbox!

Sign up here for the plugboats newsletter..

IT’S FREE!

Email address:

No, thanks.

Terms and Conditions - Privacy Policy

The ZEN50 solar electric catamaran is the premier model from Zen Yachts

Zen Yachts has just showcased their ZEN50 solar electric catamaran that’s capable of unlimited range on the high seas. The young European yard is still under construction for its zero-emissions catamaran but it’s set to arrive with a high-tech fully-automated wingsail, two kitchens, and Starlink internet from SpaceX.

Short for “Zero Emission Nautic”, Zen Yachts was founded just last year in Malta. The company has merged wind sailing with electric power to help boost the popularity of zero-emission yachts both on and off the sea.

Julien Mélot, a renowned naval architect, developed the design of the ZEN50 solar electric catamaran from scratch. Spanning over 50 feet, it features racing hulls made from lightweight carbon fiber weighing at around 16 tons. It’s also equipped with a massive solar roof that can generate up to 16 kW. Two 40 kW electric motors store the solar energy in a high-capacity 160 kWh main battery, allowing for quiet cruising. With an advantage over other yachts in its class, the ZEN50 has a solar power/weight ratio of 1:1.

Even with the solar backup, traveling at sea on electric propulsion alone could be difficult. This is where the OceanWing wingsail puts in the work. The ZEN50 solar electric catamaran can reach a top speed of 14 knots (16 mph) when combined with the electric motor. The wingsail and solar panels work together to deliver 6-10 knots of speed for continuous cruising (7-11.5 mph). The boat then combines all three technologies to provide a 24-hour range of nearly 180 nautical miles.

According to Zen Yachts , the ZEN50 solar e lectric catamaran may be equipped with various zero-emissions technology, such as a dive compressor, e-foil, electric jet board, or even an electric water maker. The company stated that they’re still calculating the overall carbon footprint of the ZEN50’s production and would make that information public once it’s been added.

Related Articles

Pivotal helix evtol wins 2024 muse design award, 131-foot sunreef explorer eco 40m solar electric catamaran, full suspension 2,300w biktrix juggernaut fs xd electric mountain bike is a thrill.

© 2021 | Owned & Operated by Rocket One Labs

• Privacy Policy

The perfect yacht for a modest millionaire – This electric catamaran has a solar roof, a giant wingsail, and Elon Musk’s Starlink Internet.

[ Zen Yachts ]

You may also like

Complete with a helicopter and two self driving Audi EV’s – This futuristic 230 foot expedition yacht is fit for a billionaire who wants to explore the unknown

Benetti Diamonds are Forever will be the longest boat of 2012 Cannes Boat Show

Vela Range Hood accommodates a built-in LCD too

SS Delphine steamship is up for a whopping $70 Million

BMW is all set to reduce emissions and go green with the all electric 5 Series and 7 Series

For her own security, Cape Town authorities have apparently denied the $500 million Nord megayacht docking at the marina.

An 80 feet long yacht hired by a group of friends hit a reef in Greece and sank. But this did not stop the trio from posing in the yacht’s spa for Instagram as the vessel sank.

Complete with a hammam, a helideck, an outdoor cinema, a massive pool, and more – Take a look inside the uber-luxurious 280-foot long megayacht where Jennifer Lopez celebrated her birthday with Ben Affleck.

Wally hermès yacht will sail in for about $140 million.

Titan Marine Air

• Our Suppliers
• Our Clients
• Our Presentation
• Terms of Service
• SCU – Self Contained Unit
• Chiller Units
• Cleaning Products
• Pumps & Accessories
• Chilled/Fresh Water Only
• Seawater & Chilled Water
• Complete Fittings
• Replacement Fittings
• Schenker Watermakers
• FCI Watermakers
• Marine Plumbing
• Polar Generator
• Marine Air Conditioning
• Refrigeration Services
• Marine Purifiers – PuRo
• Titan Marine Air Presentation

ZEN 50 BASIC 12V

$ 8,210.00

50ZEN12 This Schenker watermaker is ideal for a crew of 4-6 people, in 35-45 feet sailboat or in 30-40 feet powerboat or catamaran. The capacity is 50 lit/h (13.2 Gal/h); consumption is 240 watt. 12-24 VDC power supply.

If the item you’re seeking is currently unavailable or out of stock, kindly click here to contact our Parts Department or email us directly at [email protected] for further assistance.

• Description

Additional information

• Reviews (0)

KIT INCLUDES

• Watermaker fitted with Energy Recovery System
• Feed pump with filter
• Active carbon filter with electrovalve
• Filters key
• Non return valve
• Fresh water hose (5 mt.)
• Remote panel
• Installation kit (assortment of fittings and screws)
• Owner manual
• Automatic pressure regulation
• High pressure block
• Low voltage block

There are no reviews yet.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Your review  *

Name  *

Email  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Related products

MODULAR 60 BASIC 12V

PRC60/12 PUMP BOX RELAIS CARD

M16B – MANOMETERS

Recently viewed products.