Daedalus Yachts begins construction on zero-emission carbon D80 catamaran

North Carolina shipyard Daedalus Yachts – America’s only production yacht builder specialising in carbon-fibre-only construction over 18 metres – has announced that it is building a new 24-metre (79-foot) sailing catamaran which will involve a number of technological advancements unique to this vessel size.

The D80 catamaran, which does not require fossil fuels, will carry large battery banks along with a hydrogen storage facility on board. The batteries will be charged through regenerative propulsion generated as water passes over the propellers in sailing mode turning the propeller shafts, which, in turn, causes the electric motors to become generators that recharge the batteries.

Excess power will be stored in the form of hydrogen, along with power distributed from solar panels on board for an entirely zero emissions practise – all managed by the onboard Deep Blue Hybrid system.

Inside, she will house up to 13 guests with a master cabin forward in the starboard hull featuring an inventive slide-out hull door and terrace.

Helm positioned both out on deck and inside the saloon creates an all-round sailor/cruiser vessel regardless of the conditions. She is estimated to reach 36 knots in high wind conditions.

D80 is built from carbon fibre from the keel up and will have an air draft of 38 metres. Below the waterline, the boards which draw five metres can be raised to allow for a draft of a mere 0.9 metres when entering smaller marinas.

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