Designer Comments: Ethereal
Informed yachting industry commentators are already describing the 58 m ketch Ethereal, as the most technologically progressive superyacht project ever. A team of experts from many disciplines, including builders Royal Huisman and naval architects Ron Holland Design, were challenged by the visionary owner, Bill Joy to develop levels of energy conservation, management and storage that have never before been achieved on a sailing yacht.
At the heart of the innovations is the hybrid electro-mechanical propulsion system that can re-charge the lithium-phosphate battery bank whilst under sail, rather than relying on generators. Stored energy is sufficient to allow this vessel to operate silently in “stealth mode”, raising anchor, hoisting sails and running ship’s systems for extended periods.
Further innovations in insulation, lighting, appliances, water making and air conditioning all reduce the demand-side of the energy equation. Even the windows and hatches are designed to manage ambient temperature through automated filtering of UV and IR light. Gains in speed and propulsion efficiency have been achieved from model and tank-testing.
Working alongside such a talented team in the development of these innovations, Ron Holland Design has an exceptional understanding of the means and the potential, for more energy efficient and eco-conscious yacht design.
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