Types of Electric Boats
There are many different types and models of electric boats. There are factory built electric boats available but there are also many enthusiasts who build their own electric boat or convert an existing boat by replacing a petrol or diesel enigne with an electric drive system. A selection of the most common types of electric boats are listed below:
Dayboats & Launches
These boats are commonly used on sheltered waterways such as lakes, rivers and canals. They are ideally suited to electric drive because these boats are generally fairly small (between 4 and 7 metres) and used for relatively short trips. Most hire boats are of this type and are generally suitable to be fitted with electric motors.
Historic and Wooden Boats
Many owners of historic or wooden boats want to keep their boat in good shape. Electric drive is a logical choice as an electric motor does not foul the bilge with spilled oil and it makes for a very quiet and pleasant trip. Generally high speeds are not required in these types of boats.
Sailing boats
Many people enjoy the fact that a yacht is very quiet when under sail. Electric drive gives the same quiet boating experience when the boat is under power. Most sailing boats have an auxiliary motor, meaning that it is only used infrequently, for example when moving away from a mooring or wharf or when motoring through a bridge or canal. Because of this infrequent use, electric drive is ideal for sailing boats.
Recreational Fishing Boats
Many fisherman use small electric ‘trolling’ motors when chasing fish at their favourite spot. These electric motors are quiet so the fish do not get scared away. Also the fact that an electric motor does not pollute the waterways makes them ideal for sustainable recreational fishing.
Kayaks and Canoes
These are ideally adapted for electric drive, as they are light weight, which eleminates the need for a large battery bank. An electric motor gives the freedom to go for extended trips, use it as a help-motor when the going gets tough or on fishing kayaks; the angler can use both hands and still move through the water.
Tour Ferries
Some tourist boats are used on waterways where combustion engines are prohobited or impractical; such as for eco-tours in nature reserves or boat tours on dams (drinking water reservoirs). Electric drive is ideal since it does not pollute the water or scare away wildlife. Also it makes for a very pleasant and quiet trip.
Solar Boats
These boats are propelled by an electric motor which is directly fed by solar energy or by batteries that are recharged with solar energy. Depending on the type of boat, solarpanels can be mounted on the deck or roof of the boat to convert sunlight into electricity. Solar Boats are true ‘zero emission’ vessels.