
Two designs made over the Christmas holidays. Both designs intended for use on Canals and Inland waterways. Both electric and both made of marine plywood. The first of the two designs is this 6.5 metre (21′) electric launch with a small “cuddy” cabin. I will do another post later with the smaller one of the two, a 4.5m electric launch.
The aim of these designs is to be as sustainable as possible, with a hint of glamour and great craftsmanship. They may look speedy, but in actual fact they are designed to glide at a leisurely pace on the canals and rivers; a chance to slow down and enjoy the view!

These launches have 8 hours of range, with the larger launch providing an occasional overnight cuddy. This larger vessel would have the option of a petrol generator to extend the range.
Both launches are contemporary takes on classic wooden launches, with modern quiet technology that is reliable. Their construction in marine plywood with epoxy is a good and low CO2 alternative to other composites.
Both launches aim to capture the romance of classic speedboats, but with a modern twist, silent and efficient, light and durable. But also, slow. UK canals are limited to 4mph. Many rivers are restricted to 6mph. These boats would be limited to 6.5mph. It is pointless designing a boat to be capable of going at very high speeds when they will be operating at much lower ones, as this is about efficiency and responsibility, as lots of wash damages the banks of the canals and nesting sites of birds and other animals. Many canals and rivers in other parts of Europe are also speed limited, for the same reasons.

Exterior fabrics and the covering of the dashboard will be done using waterproof grade waxed cotton.
The boat could be specified with either a matt finish for the wood or the more traditional highly glossy finish. The hull can also be specified painted or with the hull in the stained wood finish as seen on some of these preview images.
It would be great to see one of these (or many!) built.
The 6.5m vessel could be specified with a galley. It would comfortably carry 6-10 passengers. All versions will feature a drawer fridge, perfect to chill drinks and keep the picnic fresh.






All materials used will be as natural and truly as sustainable as possible. The deck flooring will be cork, the interior will also use expanded cork for insulation. The ceiling and side panels of the cabin will use Piñatex, a faux leather made of pineapple bagasse. The images depict the natural fibre bed spread (made of linen) as well as the cotton sheets and even the mattress is custom made with natural, vegan components depending on requirements and budget.

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