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Headline: World's First Ocean-Going Solar Yacht Can Cruise The Globe With No Need For A Fuel Stop

Caption: A Swiss company has designed a solar-powered yacht with the ability to cruise the entire globe - without needing to stop and refuel. The 78-ft (24-m) electric SolarImpact yacht, created by SolarImpact Yacht AG, is a concept designed as the first of its kind. The 23.9 metre aluminium yacht is the result of five years of research by the Swiss company which claims it has realised its vision of a "seaworthy solar yacht with futuristic modern aesthetics.” The company said it has confronted the issues of high noise levels and rough seas by installing systems that rely on the sun as their primary power source. An 800-kWh battery on board gives it 10 hours of cruising capability, which can be extended by topping up the battery when the Sun's shining by using the 300 square meters (3,229 sq ft) of solar panels on the top of the yacht. They can serve as the vessel's sole power source if conditions allow, and you're prepared to take your time. If sailing on a cloudier day, there is a pair of 65-kW (87-hp) range-extending diesel engines on board as a backup. It also boasts stabilizing technology, supported by two torpedo-shaped buoyancy bodies beneath the water surface. This achieves a physical wave decoupling which reduces the rolling and heeling of the yacht by up to 90 percent, making it comfortable even when the waves are high. Accommodation is for 10 across four double guest cabins and a master suite. The yacht is also equipped with crew accommodation. The concept was unveiled at last week’s Cannes Yachting Festival where a full 3D-model allowed potential buyers the chance to explore the vessel using virtual reality.

Keywords: feature,photo feature,photo story,design,tech,technology,boat,yacht,boating,vehicle

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