Hybrid and electric boats are becoming increasingly popular on UK waterways, with an annual increase of almost 7%.
In this post we will outline some key considerations and risks concerning hybrid and electric boats for marinas.
The Different Types of Hybrid and Electric Boats
Fully Electric Vessels
Fully electric vessels are entirely powered by onboard batteries. Usually, these are charged by connecting the boat to a dedicated electric charging point at a marina.
However, some fully electric boats can recharge themselves using onboard solar panels, meaning they are technically self-sufficient: They can have unlimited range in full sunshine.
Hybrid Boats
Hybrid boats will replace one or more of their onboard diesel engines with an electric motor, powered by a lithium-ion battery bank. These vessels will often include a thermal generator, which can recharge the batteries as the boat is running.
Usually, hybrid boats will rely on standard diesel propulsion for high speeds and long distances, before switching to electric propulsion at low revs and for short passages.
The Benefits of Hybrid and Electric Boats
Hybrid and electric boats are much cleaner and quieter than standard diesel powered vessels. A marina full of electric and hybrid boats will be:
- Almost silent
- Free from the strong odours
- Free from harmful emissions
Electric propulsion also offers sailors instant torque and a much tighter and smoother manoeuvrability. This could help reduce congestion and prevent collisions in your marina and throughout the surrounding waterways.
Considerations and Risks For Marinas
If you want to attract electric and hybrid boats to your marina, then you will have to provide dedicated charging stations. This can add pressure on marinas because:
- Charging stations can be expensive and difficult to install.
- Marinas will need to find a certified installer to ensure that your charging points satisfy all relevant regulations
- Marinas will need to commit to ongoing maintenance to ensure that everything stays in good working order.
Electric and hybrid boats may be cleaner and quieter than diesel boats, but they may present certain additional risks too. The onboard lithium-ion battery banks may carry a strong fire risk, and you will have to ensure that your marina is equipped with the means of handling electric fires.
How Will Electric and Hybrid Boats Affect Your Marina Insurance?
It is unlikely that your current marina insurance policy will cover you for electric and hybrid boats. You will need specialist insurance to cover you for the increased risks and expenses associated with allowing electric and hybrid boats to use your marina, particularly if you provide dedicated charging points.
Maritime Insurance for Marinas and Boatyards
Everard Insurance Brokers are the specialist marine trading division of accredited Lloyd’s brokers James Hallam Limited.
We can help you ensure you have the insurance you need to cover your marine and boatyard for electric and hybrid boats, along with any dedicated charging stations you plan to install. We can also provide essential risk management advice to help you ensure you are prepared to meet all of the risks associated with these greener and cleaner vessels.
Find out more about our dedicated marine insurance services.