Lasai: Making Waves in the Solar Electric Boat Market

💡 Our editor was on hand at this year’s Palma International Boat Show, where one specific solar electric vessel caught his eye.

Lasai, a Spanish boat builder from the Basque country, is crafting a new narrative in the pleasure boating industry. True to its name, which means tranquil, calm, or peaceful in the Basque language, Lasai has launched a solar electric boat line designed for slow day cruising.

The company has made solar electric boating more accessible than ever before, with its smallest model starting at 55,000 euros. With a focus on sustainability and affordability, Lasai is pioneering a future where eco-friendly boating is within reach of the many, not the few.

Lasai’s boats are powered by two solar panels installed on the roof, providing a total photovoltaic power of 700W. This innovative solar technology is a game-changer in the boating industry.

The solar panels are capable of harnessing the sun’s energy even on cloudy days, ensuring that the boat can continue to cruise at a speed of two knots indefinitely. This aspect holds great promise for the industry. Even when the boat’s battery is depleted, it can still continue to move – albeit slowly – drawing power directly from the solar panels.

The solar power system is not just about propulsion. It also powers the boat’s onboard systems, including the navigation and entertainment systems. This integration of solar power into all aspects of the boat’s operation is a testament to Lasai’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.

The boats have a length overall of 6.80m and a maximum beam of 2.22m, making them spacious and comfortable for up to six passengers. The power installed ranges from 24kW, with a battery capacity of up to 40kWh. The boat’s lightweight, starting from 980 kg, contributes to its efficiency.

Inside the boat, instead of a massive diesel engine block usually found in traditional models, there’s essentially nothing but 12kw Torqeedo electric propulsion motors. This significant change in design not only supports the shift to renewable energy but also provides more space for storage and seating areas. The absence of a large, noisy engine also contributes to the peaceful, tranquil experience that Lasai aims to provide.

Another unique feature is the placement of the lithium-ion battery pack, which is located a bit forward in the boat’s center, acting as ballast. The absence of shifting fuel tanks allows for a more efficient use of space onboard and simplifies the boat’s design. This strategic placement of the battery pack also contributes to the boat’s stability, ensuring passengers a smooth and comfortable ride.

The boat’s deck is finished with PE / EVA Foam synthetic teak and comes with complete upholstery in marine fabric. It also features a stern platform, a stern sunbed, a convertible pilot seat, and a fixed bow table in synthetic material. These features and the spacious design make for a luxurious and comfortable boating experience.

For comfort and navigation, the boats have a system integrated into a multi-function SIMRAD 9″ touchscreen, a sounder, and a Bluetooth sound system with two 200W marine speakers. The propulsion system includes an electronic command, shore power inlet, and shore power cord set. These advanced features make navigation easy and enjoyable, even for those new to boating.

While still not for everyone, the price point and the boat’s features indicate that solar electric boating is heading toward mainstream adoption. Despite its innovative design, potential buyers may want to wait for a few more iterations from Lasai to see how they resolve any potential issues.

The Lasai boat was a standout at this year’s Palma International Boat Show, with the industry waiting with bated breath to see how this new take on boating will shape the future of the industry. Powered by solar energy, Lasai’s environmentally friendly boats can cruise along the coast, on lakes and rivers, silently and sustainably, marking a significant step towards a greener future in boating.

The solar electric boat market is still in its infancy, but Lasai’s innovative approach and commitment to sustainability are setting new standards. By making solar electric boating more accessible and affordable, they are opening up a new world of possibilities for eco-friendly boating. As the technology continues to evolve and improve, we can expect to see more advancements in this field.

Lasai’s solar electric boats are not just a novel concept; they are a practical and sustainable solution for the future of boating. They offer a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and sustainability, making them an attractive option for those looking to enjoy the pleasures of boating without the environmental impact. With their innovative design and advanced solar technology, Lasai’s boats are truly making waves in the industry.

As we look to the future, it’s clear that solar-electric boating has the potential to revolutionize the boating industry. With companies like Lasai leading the way, we can look forward to a future where boating is not only a source of enjoyment but also a means of promoting sustainability and protecting our planet.