RAISING SÓL THE ELECTRIC SUPER CAT

By Alice Gardner

Named after the Norse sun goddess Sól is an electric luxury catamaran using Sunreef Yachts’ revolutionary solar power system. Commissioned by an experienced family of yacht owners, this exclusive solar yacht will combine long private cruises with sustainable luxury charters.

80 Sunreef Power Eco S L

Equipped with two 360kW engines and a set of 990kWh batteries, SÓL is fitted with Sunreef Yachts’ groundbreaking solar power system with panels fully integrated with the composite structures. Thanks to this technology, the 80 Sunreef Power Eco provides unrivaled solar power for extended range and a clean cruising experience. With an energy-saving air conditioning system and smart energy management, this electric yacht sets new standards for eco-cruising.

The 4-cabin catamaran features a custom-tailored layout accommodating eight guests in the utmost of luxury. SÓL’s interiors are relaxing, with plenty of natural light and bright finishing materials. The main saloon boasts impressive lounging space and a wet bar. It also opens onto the aft cockpit and bow terrace, where guests can enjoy a spa pool.

SÓL’s aft cockpit is an amazing dining and lounging area with spectacular ocean views. Well protected from sunlight and wind, it also features a large day bed. From the cockpit, guests can easily access the catamaran’s aft platform, jet ski and water toys.

Up on the flybridge, SÓL’s guests enjoy plenty of relaxation space with a large c-shaped dining area, a bar and oversized sunpads.

F.O. : What is your experience with yachts & boating?

Owner. : We have been on the water since childhood, including racing small sailboats, and extensive cruising in New England, Florida and the Bahamas with family boats. We have also chartered in the BVI. Our three generations of close-knit families have enjoyed countless joyful experiences on board our family yachts.

F.O. : Why did you decide to build an electric yacht?

Owner. : The climate impact of large power yachts is significant. We have taken extensive steps to impact the climate crises, therefore we could only consider a power yacht if it would incorporate technologies that are rapidly scaling in other sectors such as solar energy and electric vehicles. Given our focus on sustainability broadly, only an electric “Eco” boat aligned with our values.

F.O. : Why did you decide to build with Sunreef Yachts?

Owner. : We conducted extensive research in collaboration with our broker Staley Weidman from The Catamaran Company. This included visits and meetings with multiple foreign shipyards, to determine who was genuinely and successfully advancing stateof-the-art with electric and sustainable yachting. The result of our discovery process was clear – Sunreef leads the industry with research and development, high-quality production, highly evaluated sourcing, and compelling on-water performance.

F.O. : How was your collaboration with the Sunreef team?

Owner. : The Sunreef yacht design capability has allowed for significant input and choice on our part. We have accomplished this because Sunreef’s client-facing team patiently interfaces with us remotely sometimes on a weekly basis. On-site visits have been extremely efficient in terms of making early design decisions about layout, material, colors, and furnishings. It’s a family-run, private company that has a history of high achievement, and that culture is evident throughout the organization.

F.O. : Were you involved in the design process?

Owner. : My spouse and I, together with our Captain, designer and broker, have worked directly with Sunreef, throughout the project. While we have never designed and built a yacht, we have brought our style and ideas from our home and hospitality projects and enjoyed learning and shaping of our future marine home!

F.O. : Where will you cruise?

Owner. : We will spend summers in the Northeast, some of which we know well, but much remains to discover. We look forward to joining the ship in the Bahamas and the Caribbean in the winter when the boat is off charter. The Caribbean, in particular, is mostly a frontier for us, and will offer a wonderful escape from the cold northern winters!