A Greener Horizon: 3 Powerful Shifts Driving the Boating Sector

The boating sector is transforming significantly as global issues become more pressing. There has been increased investments in the blue economy, education, and new EU regulations to combat greenwashing. 

At Boatbookings, we advocate for these positive changes. Our last blog was on our commitment to empowering a green yacht charter industry, so this week, we are exploring how other current developments are helping improve the industry. 

The Blue Economy 

As industries worldwide recognize the oceans’ economic potential, the blue economy has emerged as a focus. The term encompasses various maritime-based activities, from renewable energy and marine transportation to coastal tourism. 

Recent data shows that investments in the blue economy are on the rise. Driven by the need to harness the ocean’s resources more sustainably. The EU recently pledged to invest €1 billion in alternative fuels. These investments create new opportunities for the yachting industry to innovate and adopt more eco-friendly practices. From developing electric and hybrid propulsion systems to using recyclable materials in boat building. 

Tackling Greenwashing 

The EU has also taken action to address the challenge of greenwashing, the practice of making misleading or exaggerated claims about a product or service’s environmental benefits. The new EU Green Claims Directive aims to bring more transparency and accountability to companies’ communication of environmental credentials. 

This will encourage yacht manufacturers and other industry players to substantiate any green claims, ensuring that the messaging aligns with the impact of operations. The Directive will accelerate the industry’s transition to more sustainable practices. 

Upskilling For Greener Boating 

The recently announced EU-funded project focuses on facilitating the skills needed for the green energy transition in the maritime industry. Through targeted training programs and collaboration, this initiative equips maritime sector professionals with the knowledge and expertise required to drive sustainable change. This upskilling through the TEcoNaut project is vital to ensure businesses can facilitate positive changes. The project has recently stated that the development of green technology in boatbuilding can only be achieved through collaboration among higher education institutions. 

Investing in upskilling initiatives and greener technology while ensuring transparency are vital factors for a more sustainable boating industry. Contact one of the Boatbookings team to discuss your next yacht charter needs and learn about our greener alternatives, such as our greener crewed charter catamarans. 

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Boatbookings Commitment to Empower a Greener Yacht Charter Industry

While the world of yacht charters provides luxurious platforms for adventure and once-in-a-lifetime vacations, the industry also understands the growing recognition that our actions profoundly impact the environment. At Boatbookings, we have embraced this responsibility and are leading the charge towards a more sustainable future for the yacht charter industry. 

As a leading marketplace for yacht charters, we understand that our role extends beyond simply facilitating bookings. We advocate for a greener charter industry and champion marine conservation and responsible tourism. 

This ethos is at the core; here are some of the ways we are showing our commitment to improving the yacht charter industry: 

Spreading Awareness 

We believe that education and advocacy are crucial in driving meaningful change. Through our engagement with industry associations like MYBA, we are helping actively shape the conversation around sustainability. We share best practices and empower clients and yachts to join. Our consultants explain the importance of greener decisions regarding chartering and encouraging more sustainable preference choices, such as refusing single-use plastic and offsetting carbon emissions. We also continually educate the industry by sharing the knowledge we gather on sustainability through this blog. 

Embracing Carbon Offsetting 

We recognise that carbon emissions are an unavoidable aspect of many yacht charters. Alternative propulsion and fuels are slowly coming to the fore, a huge proportion of the fleet still has combustion engines. Our carbon offsetting program, the first of its kind within the industry, allows our clients to calculate their charters’ carbon footprint and purchase credits to offset the impact. This helps clients take an active role in preserving our oceans. 

Staying Ahead 

The yacht charter industry is ever-evolving. We constantly monitor emerging green technologies, regulatory changes, and innovative yacht launches. This ensures we remain at the forefront of the sustainability movement. By staying ahead of the curve, we can offer our clients the most up-to-date and eco-conscious options. 

Offer Better Options

Because we stay ahead and are committed to improving the industry’s green credentials, we constantly expand our eco-friendly yacht fleet and our greener crewed catamaran charters. We want to ensure clients have the broadest range of eco-conscious yachts to choose for their vacation. Our team can also help clients, boats, and crews navigate better preferences for the yacht charter through preference sheets. We encourage these evolving needs of more environmentally conscious charterers and aim to help facilitate these onboard every boat. 

In the quest for a greener future for the yacht charter industry, we embrace our responsibility and take steps to reduce our impact. For more information on the range of greener crewed catamarans on offer or other sustainability initiatives, contact one of the Boatbookings team today. 

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A Boatbookings Insight to the MYBA Charter Show in Genoa

The prestigious MYBA Charter Show, one of the yacht charter industry’s leading events, will return to Genoa, Italy, from April 22 to 25. Hosted at the iconic Marina Molo Vecchio, this 34th edition promises to celebrate the latest advancements and innovations in yachting. 

Celebrating its 40th anniversary, the show’s return to Genoa after a five-year stint in Barcelona is a significant milestone. Building upon the successful implementation of various green initiatives last year, the 2024 edition is poised to solidify MYBA’s commitment to environmental sustainability further.  

With an impressive lineup of approximately 400 exhibitors, 500 brokers, 60 yachts over 30-meters, and 300 crew, the show offers a platform for yacht charter professionals, brokers, managers, and owners to connect, collaborate, and explore the industry’s developments. This year, the show will also continue its much-loved Chefs Competition, where superyacht chefs will showcase their talents to an Italian fusion dinner party theme. 

Showing up for Sustainability 

One of the oldest and most respected events in the yachting calendar, the MYBA Charter Show has embraced sustainability as a core value. Last year’s edition implemented various eco-friendly practices. These included the use of recycled materials for promotional material and an effort to reduce energy consumption. This year’s show promises to build upon these initiatives. 

A Spotlight on the Yachts

A highlight of the year is the impressive lineup of charter yachts. Each year, we see a rise in the number of greener crewed charter yachts on the market, thanks to advancements in green technology. 

Among the yachts at this year’s show is the newly launched Otoctone. The Sunreef 80 catamaran is part of the Eco series. Boatbookings is proud to showcase this remarkable yacht. It is fitted with Sunreef’s solar power system, featuring solar panels integrated into the composite structure. Otoctone is a testament to the industry’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint. 

When under sail, the yacht also boasts an advanced hydrogeneration system, allowing for the continuous production of green energy. Capable of accommodating up to 9 guests, Otoctone is the perfect choice for a Mediterranean charter this summer. Following its appearance at the MYBA Charter Show, the yacht will be available for charters in Sardinia and Corsica. It will also be available for the iconic America’s Cup in Barcelona. 

Boatbookings at the Show 

Our charter experts will be at the show, ensuring we have the most up-to-date information about the best charter yachts on the market. Getting to know the yachts in detail is critical to our service, so we choose the best yacht for you. Contact one of the team to learn more about a crewed charter catamaran vacation for 2024. 

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How to Have a Greener Family-Friendly Yacht Charter in the Mediterranean this Summer 

A yacht charter offers the perfect opportunity for an unforgettable, family-friendly vacation this summer. At Boatbookings, we understand the importance of quality time together while instilling eco-values from an early age. That’s why our fleet of greener crewed charter catamarans is family-friendly. 

Our child-friendly yachts check every box, from enhanced safety features and ample play space to overflowing toy boxes and chefs catering to all ages. We also go a step further by offering engaging eco-activities and more sustainable practices that will inspire the next generation. 

Here, we have put together some of the ways you can have a greener family-friendly charter in the Mediterranean: 

Marine Life Education 

While onboard in the Mediterranean this summer, there are plenty of activities to get your children excited about marine life and preserving it. You can start this process by using mobile apps to identify tropical fish, dolphins, turtles, and other creatures you encounter. The crew onboard a crewed charter catamaran can also teach children about marine habitats and how to be responsible visitors to the ocean, following the “no trace” principles. There are lots of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) throughout the region, from Greece and Croatia to the French Riviera and the Italian islands, where you can adhere to the strcit rules and regulations working to protect the habitats.

Beach Clean Ups 

Participating in a beach clean-up during your boat charter is a rewarding experience, perfect for all ages. Collecting litter and debris allows families to directly contribute to protecting the surrounding ecosystems. Initiatives such as these can help families feel empowered knowing they have been part of the solution to protecting our oceans and coastlines. 

Eco-Friendly Water Fun 

Children and adults alike on a crewed charter love the toy box. There are a whole host of greener toys you can play on, contributing to more eco-friendly boating and steering clear of the fuel-guzzling water toys and opting for the greener versions, such as the electric-powered toys or even the human-powered ones such as paddleboarding and kayaking while onboard. While ashore, the crew can also arrange responsible activities contributing to the local economy and supporting environmental and conservation initiatives. 

Better Boating Practices 

Our selection of greener crewed catamarans offers a greener charter experience for you and your family. These boats are a great platform to explain the best practices. The crew can educate everyone about the renewable energy sources being used, such as hybrid electric motors and solar panels. Onboard, you can get invovled in the responsible waste management programs and using the eco-friendly products. 

Book Today! 

If you are interested in a family-friendly boat charter, contact one of the Boatbookings team members to discuss this further. We have a range of greener crewed catamarans with still some available for this summer’s Mediterranean season. Get in touch today! 

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The New Game-Changing Green Technology Disrupting the Boating Sector 

As the boating sector looks at more ways to protect our oceans and reduce its environmental impact, there is a growing demand for more sustainable solutions. With today’s environmental concerns, green boating is more critical than ever before, and many innovative companies and organizations are stepping it up with new, greener technologies. 

What is Green Technology?

Green Technology is an umbrella term for technologies that create services and products with less impact on the planet and oceans. In the boating sector, this can include greener propulsion systems, alternative fuels, hull design, sustainable materials, and eco-friendly accessories. 

At Boatbookings, we remain ahead of these developments to ensure that we are aware of the technologies and look at yacht builders that utilize them. We help facilitate this through our fleet of greener crewed charter catamarans.

Here, we explore some of the latest developments in green technology within the boating and broader maritime sector:

Scaling Up Electric 

Boating has been moving toward electric in the last few years in a big way, and more developments are continuing to push electric technology into the fore. Most recently, the electric hydrofoil boat company Candela has secured its most significant funding round to expand the production of its P-12 fast electric ferry. A key partner in this is Group Beneteau. This funding will help scale up production to meet demand for the world’s first electric hydrofoil ferry. Scaling up innovative solutions aligns with both company’s objectives for more sustainable boating. 

Facilitating Alternative Fuels 

Along with developments in the electric market, there are also considerable efforts to utilize alternative fuels across the maritime industry. One example is the recent launch of Monaco’s first autonomous green hydrogen pontoon for recreational boating. Launching this floating facility will produce green hydrogen from renewable energy sources to refill and supply multiple teams with this greener fuel in preparation for the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge. This development promotes the usage and facilitation of more eco-responsible energy resources in boating. 

Integrating AI

The rise of digital innovation driven by artificial intelligence (AI) is helping make the entire sector more sustainable. A recent collaboration between Hyundai and Naver aims to revolutionize how vast amounts of maritime data gets utilized through big data analytics and AI-drive learning algorithms. This AI can provide optimal navigation routes and insight for enhanced operational efficiency and environmental sustainability through data-driven decision-making. Currently, this development is within the shipbuilding and commercial maritime sectors, but these notable AI developments will eventually filter down to the boating and yachting sectors. 

Better Materials 

Boat builders are constantly rethinking the materials used in construction and finding innovative solutions. Natural fibers like flax are substituting fiberglass composites and integrating more recycled plastics. The interiors of boats are also being considered, along with materials such as cork, bamboo, and other eco-friendly options used for upholstery and fabrics. A prime example of using better materials is highlighted through the recent launch of North Sails RENEW sails, where over 90% of the sails are constructed from bio-based or recycled materials while not comprising performance or longevity. 

From recreational boating to large-scale commercial shipping, the entire maritime industry is rapidly accelerating the implementation of greener technologies to advocate for more environmentally responsible experiences. We are optimistic that we will continue to see more sustainable solutions emerge and that the boating sector will become greener. If you want to discuss our greener crewed charter catamarans for your Mediterranean summer charter, contact one of the Boatbookings team today. 

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