Marvin the Martian

The need of becoming “green” has become a pressing matter in boating during recent years. This project’s goal was to create a boat capable of being autonomous and self-sufficient from an energy standpoint.

The decision of employing two hulls allows for less resistance in the water and therefore less propulsion energy. The boat is designed to be constructed using the most advanced technologies in the field today; vacuum infusion epoxy resins and Kevlar laminates where employed to achieve a lightweight yet inexpensive hull. The multi-hull also allows for more space above deck; this provides an area of 35 sq m (380 sq f) of photovoltaic panels, supplying the vessel with enough energy to become self-sufficient.

Propulsion relies on an electric/diesel engine, presenting various options to the user; from a completely “electrical” propulsion, to a completely diesel one. The first option offers a 30Nm of autonomy at a 5-7 kn cruising speed, while a combination of electric and diesel propulsion can achieve a 500Nm autonomy at 9 kn, by consuming only 400 liters of fuel. The openings found on deck are strategically placed in order to provide sufficient daylight and flow of air so as to eliminate the need of A/C, which would require vast amounts of energy.

The catamaran can accommodate up to 8 guests in its two hulls, whilst on deck level a kitchen – with an unobstructed view of the bow, a dinette and a living room provide the relaxing space for all day-to-day activities, illuminated by large apertures in the boat’s shell.