Silent Yachts is a pioneer in incorporating kite sail systems into their yachts. Their Silent 60 model is the world’s first production yacht designed specifically to integrate a kite sail system.
Here’s a breakdown of how the Silent Yachts kite sail system works:
Increased Wind Power: A kite is deployed from the yacht, reaching high altitudes where winds are stronger and more consistent. This translates to significantly more pulling power compared to traditional sails. Silent Yachts claims the kite can generate up to 10 times more power than a conventional sail.
Doesn’t Compete with Solar Panels: Unlike conventional sails, the kite flies high above the deck, avoiding shade on the solar panels – a crucial aspect of Silent Yachts’ solar-powered philosophy .
Easy Storage: When not in use, the kite and its electrical winch can be collapsed and stored in a dedicated locker on the foredeck, ensuring it doesn’t take up valuable deck space .
Benefits of the Silent Yachts Kite Sail System
Enhanced Efficiency: The kite system can significantly improve a yacht’s fuel efficiency or, in the case of Silent Yachts, solar power consumption. During testing, the Silent 60 achieved speeds of 4-5 knots with the kite and electric motors turned off . When minimal electric motor power was used to optimize propeller efficiency, speeds increased to nearly 7 knots – a substantial improvement.
Silent Operation: The kite system is completely silent, aligning perfectly with Silent Yachts’ commitment to noise-free cruising.
While Silent Yachts seems to be at the forefront of integrating kite systems into production yachts, there may be some limitations to consider:
Wind Dependency: Kite sails are effective primarily in downwind or broad reach conditions. Sailing directly against the wind may not be possible.
Technical Expertise: Operating a kite sail system may require some additional training or experience compared to traditional sails.
Overall, Silent Yachts’ kite sail system represents an exciting innovation in the world of yachting, offering the potential for increased efficiency and silent, wind-powered cruising.
Suhas Shrikant is the founder of Vecharged and an engineering enthusiast specializing in high-power off-grid solar systems. He has designed and built over a dozen custom systems and uses his hands-on, field-tested experience to create Vecharged’s expert guides and reviews.
Vecharged is the consumer education platform of the Electricity Delivery Forum, an organization dedicated to the professional discussion of energy infrastructure and policy. The experts at the Forum recognized a critical gap: while industry professionals had a place to discuss the future of the grid, there was no trusted resource dedicated to helping homeowners and consumers navigate these changes in their own lives. Vecharged was created to fill that gap. We ground our practical, hands-on advice in a deep, foundational understanding of the broader energy landscape, ensuring our content is not only useful but also accurate and forward-looking.
If you’re rocking a wild, overgrown yard and need some serious taming, Ryobi’s got your back. This power tool titan offers a whole lineup of lawn mowers that’ll transform your unruly jungle into the envy of the neighborhood. Let’s plug into three of their best models, perfect for different lawns and lifestyles. 1. The Small
The Rivian R1T has taken the electric truck market by storm, offering a unique blend of power, luxury, and off-road prowess. If you’re intrigued by this revolutionary truck, you’re in the right place. This comprehensive guide will delve into all the critical aspects of the Rivian R1T, from its performance and features to its price
The Best Used EVs: Your Guide to Smart, Sustainable Driving Are you considering joining the electric revolution on a budget? The used EV market is exploding with exciting options. But with models, ranges, and prices to compare, finding the perfect fit can be overwhelming. This guide will reveal the best used EVs across different budgets
Imagine the thrill of gliding effortlessly above the water, propelled by nothing but an electric motor and a magical hydrofoil. That’s the world of eFoiling! While it may look intimidating, with some preparation and practice, most people can master this incredible new sport. Let’s transform your time on the water! Before You Start Getting Started:
