Since its construction in 2012, this yacht, built by the New Zealander Craig Loomes, has been involved in a series of scientific research and campaigns. It was the first to circumnavigate the globe using only solar energy (probably with some help from the ocean currents…). It has been involved in cleaning the seas from plastic waste and human-made pollution and in studying changes in the Gulf Stream, the warm water current that reaches the western coast of Europe and brings a lot of rain to England.
The yacht, named Turanor, is derived from J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” and means “power of the sun” in Elvish. This exceptional-looking yacht features a massive array of photovoltaic cells that, when fully extended, cover more than half a square kilometer of surface area exposed to the sun’s rays. The electricity generated is stored in six lithium-ion batteries that power the engines to approximately 130 kW.
Its meticulous aerodynamic design and efficient hydrodynamic structure allow for a cruising speed of around five knots (almost ten km/h), demonstrating the high energy efficiency of the vessel. At peak output, the electric motors can generate up to 17 horsepower.
The trimaran-shaped yacht, with three hulls, is made of composite materials that ensure low self-weight, yet a sturdy and solid structure capable of handling high seas. It is equipped with a special net that allows the collection of up to eight tons of marine debris during ocean voyages. Its next goal is to circumnavigate the world in less than 26 days, its previous record.
Bottom line: A giant solar-powered vessel or a sea cleanser?
Price: 15 million euros
