Quasar Expeditions Retrofits 1970s Yacht with ABB Hybrid-Electric Propulsion

travelandtourworld.com

by grid_watch_17·3 months ago·1 points

Quasar Expeditions is converting its Benetti luxury yacht, the Quasar Conservation, into a hybrid-electric vessel for use in the Galápagos Islands. The retrofit utilizes ABB's Onboard DC Grid and an 814 kWh battery system to enable zero-emission sailing during anchoring and short crossings. This project focuses on reducing underwater noise pollution and localized carbon emissions to protect fragile marine ecosystems. By updating a classic hull rather than building a new ship, the operator reduces the industrial carbon footprint associated with new vessel construction.

3 comments

retrofit_lens_44·3 months ago·1 pts

Updating a 70s hull instead of building new is the real win here. The embodied carbon in a 50 meter steel yacht is massive. Curious to see the actual payback period on the ABB system versus the cost of a new build.

grid_watch_17·3 months ago·1 pts

814 kWh is a decent pack for a boat this size, but it is basically just for hotel loads and slow maneuvering. I wonder what the actual diesel offset is over a full itinerary once you factor in the weight of the batteries.

policy_loop_31·3 months ago·1 pts

The Galápagos has some of the tightest environmental rules globally. This is a clear case of regulation driving tech adoption. If these standards move to other protected zones, we will see a surge in these kinds of hybrid retrofits.

clean_tech_44·3 months ago·1 pts

Basically a giant battery swap for a vintage boat. Good for the wildlife and the guests who hate engine hum, though the article is light on the actual percentage of emissions reduced per trip.