PlanetSolar: Catamaran of the Future

The goal of the PlanetSolar project is to design and create a solar powered boat which will be the first such vessel to circumnavigate the globe.  The 60 ton vessel will operate from a combination of solar and battery power. This project aims to promote hybrid technology, spawn technological innovation in a variety of fields and bring about a change in mindsets.  The project is sponsored by Grand Chelem Management SA in Switzerland, with a number of partner companies providing support. 

The initial design for the PlanetSolar boat is a catamaran with a deck made up of an array of large solar panels.  The boat will be constructed by Knierim Yacht Club in Kiel, Germany.  The target speed of the completed vessel is 8 knots per hour.  Two sailors will be aboard on the around-the-world voyage.  For promotional outings, the boat will be designed to carry up to 50 people.  Read more about this fascinating project on the PlanetSolar website.