Coming soon in 2025…
32’ Electric Catamaran!
It's been a long road, but after three years of planning, sourcing and building, we're excited to see our custom, fully electric catamaran nearing completion.
We contracted with Antrim Associates Naval Architects in December of 2021 to design a carbon fiber composite catamaran with electric propulsion to replace our aluminum pontoon boat. After a six month search to find a builder with the labor force, necessary tooling, and availability to tackle the project, we found the right outfit for the job, James Betts Enterprises in Anacortes, WA.
In March of 2023, the U.S. Coast Guard approved our hull design, and after USCG approval of our materials testing lab results, fabrication of the hulls, deck, and seating progressed at an impressive pace. We're now awaiting USCG approval of our preferred system of power and propulsion, so we can complete construction and get our COI (Certificate of Inspection).
The new vessel will have a similar layout and feel. It will be five feet longer, and will accomodate up to 32 passengers. With twin electric outboard motors, it will be even quieter than our current setup. We'll also have a restroom (head) onboard!
Our current boat, Safari is a wonderful vessel, and has offered unparalelled, comfortable wildlife viewing to hundreds of thousands of guests for 30 years. While our current ultra-low emmision outboard motor is extremely reliable and efficient, we are excited to transition to a more environmentally friendly mode of propulsion, in keeping with our values as responsible stewards of this precious wetland.
We are grateful to all of our guests who have helped us get this far, through COVID, and other challenges that coincided. Your continued support through this exciting, necessary, and VERY expensive process is immensely appreciated.