Elite Traveler Spring 2024

DISCOVER

elite traveler SPRING 2024 40

The 88-ft Sunreef 88 Ultima can accommodate up to 10 guests

Yachts by Irenie Forshaw

SEACHANGE When it comes to sustainability, it’s no secret the boating sector has been a little slow o ff themark . While it seems almost every major car manufacturer is making strides in its electri fi cation journey, high costs and complex challenges at sea have made shipyards a touch more hesitant to follow suit. There is, however, a growing handful of options for those seeking a luxury yachting experience — without the hefty carbon footprint. Enter the Sunreef 88 Ultima. The new model forms part of the Polish shipyard’s growing line of ‘hi-tech hybrid power catamarans.’ But what does this mean, exactly? Sunreef has combined custom-engineered batteries with hybrid propulsion and an innovative solar power system to crafta fl eet of zero-emission, energy-e ffi cient yachts. Spanning 88 ft, the glossy new vessel is the largest inthe fl eet and features, like her predecessors, a streamlined black-and-silver hull. This sleek pro fi le ensures she can dock at even the narrowest marinas. Perhaps most impressive is her optimized hull design, which reduces drag to enhance performance while minimizing emissions. The result is an

In October 2023, Sunreef revealed that it had sold its fi rst 88 Ultima to Tim Ciasulli. The powerboat champion, whose racing career has spanned four decades, holds four world speed records and is an avid yachtsman. It seems the 88 Ultima ticked a lot of boxes. “Who else builds a yacht that has almost 4,200 sq ft of living area where you can cruise responsibly, economically and sustainably on solar-powered electric motors and go 35 mph on traditional engines when you need to?” Ciasulli commented, following his purchase. Scheduled for delivery in 2025, the 88 Ultima is certainly one to watch. sunreef-yachts.com

exceptionally smooth cruising experience without the pesky fumes, vibrations and noise that come with traditional diesel-powered boats. With over 4,100 sq ft of indoor living space, the 88 Ultima can comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests. There are several di ff erent interior layouts to choose from; our favorite con fi guration features a full-beam master stateroom with a spacious private sauna. And while we’re yet to have a glimpse of the interiors, Sunreef promises light- fi lled spaces adorned with plenty of eco-friendly materials from sustainable woods to recycled plastics and reclaimed fabrics. The shipyard hasn’t forgotten the fun factor, either. Future owners will enjoy a walk-around Ocean Lounge, folding bulwark platforms and an aft garage for storing a fl eet of electric water toys.

TAKETWO// ELECTRIC YACHTS

Silent Yachts, Silent 62 Three-Deck Silent Yachts caused a stir when it launched its solar-powered catamaran, Silent 60, back in 2021. Not one to rest on its laurels, the Austrian shipyard revealed a gleaming new model — Silent 62 Three Deck — with an additional third deck instead of the

BMW and Tyde, TheIcon German car giant BMW teamed up with boat maker Tyde to unveil a futuristic, fully electric, zero-emission yacht. The production ready boat — The Icon (pictured at left) — spans just 42 ft and is equipped with an electric propulsion system that runs on high-voltage batteries. bmw.com

regular fl ybridge. silent-yachts.com

Photo Enes Kucevic