Plymouth Boat Trips and Voyager Marine, Cornwall are partnering with the University of Plymouth, the University of Exeter, Teignbridge Propellers, MarRi-Uk and EV Parts UK in a ground breaking project to create the UK’s first, sea going, electric passenger vessel, e-Voyager. The new green boat is set to launch in July, mirroring Plymouth Boat Trips’ existing ferry routes, including Cremyll Ferry, a busy commuter connection between Cornwall and Plymouth.
The project is funded through the £1.4M Clean Maritime Call: a Maritime Research and Innovation UK (MarRI-UK) initiative supported by the Department for Transport (DfT), launched to support the UK’s goal of zero emission shipping.
Voyager Marine will be the only UK boat builder to offer the complete package of design, installation and maintenance of sea going, electric vessels. Plymouth Boat Trips’ project leader, Andy Hurley said: ‘We’re very excited to be leading such a progressive project, to create a cleaner and more sustainable future for the industry.’
Environmental and Commercial Benefits
Support from the universities was via Environmental Futures & Big Data Impact Lab, a £6.4 million project to support small businesses, and the £4M Marine Business Technology Centre, both part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund. Sarah Fear, Project Manager (Impact Lab) at the University of Plymouth, said: “This is a cutting edge project and the perfect opportunity to show how the University’s scientific expertise and business support can be combined with the ingenuity of a local company.”
Repurposed, Nissan Leaf batteries will be used in e-Voyager, meaning almost no maintenance and clear commercial benefits for businesses in the marine sector. The University of Plymouth’s scientists will carry out research during the build, measuring emissions including noise pollution, air pollution and fuel consumption.
Brian Lambert, a University of Exeter Research Fellow in the Marine Business Technology Centre Project, joined the consortium to shape the bid into MarRi-UK. Brian will be working with EV Parts UK to integrate and optimise the new electric power train, to maximise the environmental benefits and efficiency of the motors.
Technology and design
EV Parts will design the battery storage and motor installation. FBW (fly-by-wire) electronic controls will replace the existing systems and will be directly transferable to a wide range of vessels in the under 24m commercial vessel market. The motors, energy storage, control and charging systems will also be tested in a real-world environment, enabling the team to gain approval from regulatory bodies so they can be used in vessels across the sector and, eventually, carry passengers.
Brad Bunyard, Managing Director at EV Parts said: “We’re breaking new ground with e-Voyager and beyond the prototype we look forward to being able to provide approved solutions to meet low emission targets in the marine sector.”
Safety and Regulations
Rigorous running trials will be carried out and Plymouth Boat Trips will be working closely with the University of Plymouth and Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA) to develop regulations.
Dr Richard Pemberton, lecturer in Mechanical and Marine Engineering Design at the University of Plymouth said: “From my first meeting with Plymouth Boat Trips, I was impressed with their approach to innovation. They are looking to take known technologies from the automotive and industrial sector and apply them in the marine environment”.
He went on to say: “The University’s involvement comes on many fronts, be that academic support on a technical level to assisting with funding applications, and on a personal level, I’ve been linking the project to my teaching, so that the engineers we’re training for tomorrow, are aware of new technologies and where the sector is moving.”
For further information and images contact:
Sally Bowles, Plymouth Boat Trips, PR & Marketing:
E: sally@plymouthboattrips.co.uk T: 01752 253153
After careful consideration, Plymouth Boat Trips has taken the decision to suspend the Cremyll Ferry operation, by end of day today (24th March 2020), until further notice, based on guidance issued by the government regarding Coronavirus (Covid-19).
The health, safety and well-being of our staff and customers is our highest priority, therefore we believe it is not appropriate to continue the service. We will be continually reviewing the situation and will keep you updated.
Please stay safe and stay home for now and we look forward to welcoming you on board the Cremyll Ferry again in the, not too distant, future!
With thanks from the Cremyll Ferry crew and all at Plymouth Boat Trips
Plymouth Boat Trips has taken the decision to suspend all cruise, fishing and ferry services, until further notice, based on guidance issued by the government regarding Coronavirus (Covid-19) on non-essential travel and social distancing.
The health, safety and well-being of our staff and customers is our highest priority, therefore we believe it would not be appropriate to continue business as normal. We will be continually reviewing the situation and will keep you updated.
Please stay safe and stay home for now and we look forward to welcoming you on board again in the, not too distant, future.
With thanks from all at Plymouth Boat Trips
This September marks the 400-year anniversary of the momentous sailing of the Mayflower from Plymouth, Devon to the United States. Plymouth will be alive with celebrations, including our new Mayflower 400 and Plymouth Harbour Cruise.
Launching in April, our cruise brings the pilgrims story to life, with tales of the gruelling 60-day voyage and those on board. We then continue along the River Tamar, where passengers can learn more about the rich history of Plymouth.
Join the Mayflower celebrations on the water from where the Pilgrims set sail on our, not to be missed, one-hour cruise!
Keep an eye out for updates on our website and social media channels.
www.plymouthboattrips.co.uk
Getting out on the water is one of the best ways to relax and Plymouth Boat Trips has it covered this summer. From lazy sunset sailings and Jazz themed cruises, to ferries connecting Devon and the beautiful laid-back beaches of the Rame Peninsula in Cornwall, there’s something for everyone.
The essential start to your summer evenings, whether winding down from work or before an evening out, Plymouth Boat Trips 1½ hour Sundowner Cruise sails up the River Tamar, taking in Plymouth’s stunning coastline views. Sit back and relax, with a complimentary glass of prosecco or bottled beer, on board, as you listen to the water lapping and some chilled summer tunes.
Or why not take a longer trip to soak up the summer atmosphere on an evening Jazz cruise to Calstock. Organised in partnership with Plymouth Jazz Club, a live band plays the coolest soundtrack as you set sail through the lush, green Tamar Valley. This idyllic evening trip also includes a free drink at the bar and a one hour stop at the quaint Cornish village of Calstock. You can also pre-book a Cornish pasty, to add a real taste of the South West to your trip.
Plymouth Boat Trips offers a variety of regular ferry services, providing a stress-free way to travel between The Barbican, Royal William Yard and Mount Edgcumbe throughout the summer. Leave the car behind and the hassle of parking and just enjoy all these iconic destinations have to offer. Take a stroll around Plymouth’s bustling and vibrant Barbican, enjoy the restaurants and bars of Royal William Yard or take in the history and beauty of Mount Edgcumbe House and gardens.
For many, jigging a mackerel line is one of the most soothing pass times and depending on your catch, a rewarding one too. Take to the local waters of Plymouth sound on a warm summer’s day and try your hand at fishing. Each trip lasts three hours and all your equipment is provided, simply dress for the weather and bring the sun hat and cream!
To find out more and book tickets go to: www.plymouthboattrips.co.uk
Plymouth Boat Trips
2-5 Commercial Wharf
The Barbican
Plymouth
PL1 2NX
