Hybrid electric boat launches in 2019

We are proud to announce that, in 2019, the newest member of our fleet will be our first hybrid diesel-electric narrowboat, Coot. With accommodation for four guests in a double/twin bedroom and double sofabed, Coot has the same layout as our other new narrowboat Hobby. But that’s where the similarity ends.

Over the past ten years we have kept a close eye on developments in automotive technology, with the aim of building an electric boat that can cruise the canal without customers fretting about reaching the next charging point. While suitable technology, similar to that used in Tesla cars, has recently been developed for boats, we think it comes at a cost that would make holiday hire unaffordable. However, we are impressed with latest hybrid technologies and decided that our newest narrowboat should be a hybrid diesel-electric with solar panels on the roof.

Unlike some electric narrowboats which can be recharged only at designated points on a canal, Coot recharges her batteries continuously while you are cruising. Set off in the morning cruising on (virtually silent) electric power then, after a lunch stop, switch the power source. The batteries recharge as you continue cruising so you’ve plenty of power for the next morning and you can moor up for the night wherever you fancy. 

Featuring a canopied front deck, a wood burning stove, an additional loo, a spacious shower room and a large kitchen. With a bedroom that can be made up with a double bed or two single beds, and a sofa in the lounge which converts to a double bed, Coot provides flexible accommodation for groups of friends and families of all ages. And she has 'green' appeal.

Keep an eye on our blog for progress on this exciting project!