Seven innovative electric boat options

Electric vehicles are almost a constant point of conversation nowadays when transport is concerned, but unlike the car industry, electric boats are still a rather niche category.

With challenges involving efficiency, cost, charging infrastructure and space, the boating industry is facing a steeper development curve compared to cars and bikes.

But with growing environmental concerns, and the sharp spike in fuel prices recently, electric boats are starting to make a lot of sense. Choice for recreational consumers is still limited, but there are a few exciting and innovative options available.

Swedish electric boat maker Candela is known for its hydrofoil vessels that glide above the water to reduce drag and maximise efficiency. The design results in zero emissions, minimal wake and near-silent operation, making it less disruptive to sensitive marine ecosystems.

The company has a strategic partnership with Polestar, highlighting a shared focus on innovative Swedish engineering and electric mobility.

The C-8 features a “Polestar-powered” 69kWh battery and can cruise at approximately 22 knots, with a top speed of 27 knots. It has a claimed range of roughly 57 nautical miles and seats up to six people. Charging time is rated at around 6.5 hours for a standard full charge, or less than 30 minutes for a 10–80 per cent top-up with a 135kW DC charger.

Available in T-top and hard-top variants, the C-8 also offers overnight capability, with a compact but functional interior that can accommodate a small family.

Another Swedish-built product, the X Shore Eelex 8000 is a luxury eight-metre day cruiser with a modular layout designed to suit a variety of uses. Customers can configure the boat for cruising, fishing or watersports.

Power comes from a 126kWh battery and a 170kW motor, delivering a claimed range of up to 100 nautical miles. Maximum speed is around 30 knots, with a cruising speed of approximately 20 knots. With a DC fast charger, X Shore claims a 20–80 per cent charge in under one hour is possible.

The boat accommodates up to 10 passengers and includes a wide range of tech and safety features.

This one is for the wakeboarders. The Arc Sport is a US-built electric wake boat designed by former SpaceX engineers.

Still in the pre-order phase, the 23ft Arc Sport is the successor to the original Arc One model. The new boat delivers around 500hp and 4–6 hours of active use from its 232kWh battery. Charging takes approximately 70 minutes with a fast charger, or 14–16 hours via Level 2 charging. Top speed is estimated at around 64km/h or 35 knots.

Features include customisable wakes via an integrated surf system, an auto-retract carbon hardtop tower, three integrated cameras, a touchscreen display and software-assisted docking, manoeuvring and trailer loading.

The name says it all. This 17-metre luxury yacht is powered by a 1MWh battery and two 400kW motors. It has a top speed of around 25 knots and accommodates up to 12 people.

With open, spacious deck areas, the 57 Deep Silence leans heavily into luxury, featuring large cabins, a climate-controlled cockpit, multiple lounge spaces and a tender garage for a 3.3m tender.

Slovenia’s Greenline Yachts is known for its innovative hybrid system, which allows its propulsion yachts to switch between electric and diesel power.

The 48 Coupe is available with the “H-Drive” hybrid system, as well as diesel and fully electric configurations. Solar panels are also integrated into the design to help power onboard systems, while the luxury interior prioritises space and comfort. The exterior features a modern-classic design language.

Mercury’s range of Avator electric outboard motors is designed for small boats, tenders and fishing vessels, with modular battery systems offering flexible capacity.

A range of power outputs is available, with the base 7.5e offering equivalent power to a small 3.5hp petrol outboard. Larger 75e and 110e models are suited to medium-sized aluminium fishing boats and pontoons.

A full-colour integrated display provides range estimates and battery status, while smartphone connectivity is also available for system monitoring.

This German company produces a wide range of electric outboards and integrated propulsion systems for recreational and commercial use.

Its “Cruise” lineup includes motors ranging from 6hp to 25hp equivalents, suitable for motorboats and sailboats up to around 12 tonnes. Torqeedo systems are widely used for tenders, dinghies and small craft where efficiency and reliability are key priorities.