German shipyard Alva Yachts has unveiled the Eco Cruise 50, a highly customisable trawler-inspired electric yacht.
The vessel is the fourth motor yacht from the yard but the first monohull, the previous models being catamarans. As the entry-level and first monohull model in the Alva lineup, the manufacturer hopes to reach new markets and a wider array of Owners.
Styled by yard mainstay Henndesign, the yacht can accommodate up to six guests with provisions for two crew. The interior is described as minimalist and designed to draw in generous amounts of soothing natural light.
Alva shares its electric technology with car brand Volkswagen, the Eco Cruise 50 being powered by electric motors connected to a battery pack that can take its charge from a generator and solar panels found on the upper deck aft and above the upper saloon.
Running entirely from the electric motors on a normal sunny day and cruising at a speed of less than 5 knots, she has a range of over 100nm. Moving up to a cruising speed of 10 knots the generator will kick in from time-to-time to give a range of around 1,600nm. The overall range, with the optional fuel tank, is more than 2,500nm.
For completely emission-free yachting, the generator can be swapped for a hydrogen fuel cell, which we will report further once more details are known.
On the ‘Owner Version’, the cabins and heads are all found on the main deck. A galley and intimate dining area are amidships, forward of an open beach club and swimming platform with a sunpad. The space can also hold the yacht’s tender and a jet ski.
This leaves the upper deck free for a combined salon and wet bar aft of the helm station. Sliding doors aft lead to an upper deck with comfortable seating that overlooks both the bow and stern.
Those buying the yacht can also spec a ‘Charter Version’, which swaps the upper salon for an ensuite Owner’s cabin, adds a main-deck twin cabin and creates a combined dining/social area amidships.
For completely emission-free yachting, the Owner can swap the electric generator for a hydrogen fuel cell.
As standard, the Eco Cruise 50 comes with solar panels which, along with an electric generator, power a pair of 100kW electric motors with a 150 or 240kWh battery pack. As standard, the yacht has a top speed of 16 knots, a high-performance version, the 50 HP, with 230kW motors has a maximum speed of 20 knots.
Although it is a name usually associated with the automotive industry Volkswagen is also a long-term player in the marine industry. Having made great strides in electric motoring in recent years it is now translating the technology into the nautical arena, also working with renowned German-based Silent Yachts on its new Silent 50 catamaran.
To purchase a relaxing weekend yacht just like the Eco Cruise 50 now, see cruiser yachts available to buy.
