OCEAN STRIDER YACHT PROJECTS LIMITED

To the interested! The reasons I wouldn’t go back to diesel power on Ocean Strider.

I started this journey with the intention to sail, and I’m not saying there haven’t been times when I would just like to get to my destination faster. But the priority of saving power in the batteries has made me choose the slower traditional way and use my sails.

A. Generating my own fuel is an environmental gift from nature:

1. It gives me a warm fuzzy feeling to know we’re generating charge power from Ocean Strider’s Lynch air-cooled propulsion system, as she cuts through the water under sail.
2. Then as we sail, that charge is increased by natural solar charge and wind generation.
3. After the sail if I need to motor, I can use that free power, through the propulsion system to take us to our mooring or anchorage.
4. The benefits to me and the planet are obvious.

B. A contribution to a cleaner planet:

1. I’m aware of the alleged poor manufacturing conditions for workers which must be put right, and that the disposal of parts, including batteries, is contributing to the destruction of the life-giving systems on planet earth.
2. But I believe that electric propulsion, given time will make a huge contribution to a cleaner planet, and the more it’s fitted and used the faster research and technology will create the desired end result.

C. Quiet clean and vibration free:

1. When you use an electric drive on a sailboat, it’s almost like using your sails.
2. It’s so peaceful, with almost no sound, no vibration, and no fumes ruining your journey.
3. Only pure clean free energy takes you to your destination.

D. See everyone filling their tanks with fossil fuel and paying their taxes:

1. Ocean Strider has now covered more than 6,000 nautical miles and crossed oceans since I fitted the electric motor.
2. We use the diesel tank for storage and have not paid a cent for propulsion.
3. I have a generator on board for emergencies and run it once a month for its own maintenance.
4. On a journey like this, every cent you save adds up and helps get you further.

E. Charging your boat for FREE when you’re anchored:

1. We’ve anchored for free in some beautiful bay on our travels; there’s usually sun or wind, and especially in the Caribbean, you get both.
2. Through the battery monitor I can see (even on Ocean Strider’s small solar and wind generation capably) our batteries being charged which ultimately keeps their condition good for longer.

F. Saving you money:

1. We’re currently on a slow circumnavigation of the planet on board Ocean Strider and I’m often told that what I’m doing doesn’t work and never will.
2. Well 50 years ago people were sailing, using only Diesel engines and high-power bulbs, oil lamps, and in-efficient electrical equipment.
3. They would be forced to pay for diesel to use the alternators on their engines or pay Marina fees and hook up to electric.
4. Technology is moving forward, helping to increase the power we make and to store it on board. Lowering our usage through efficient LED bulbs and power-saving equipment onboard. Incredible navigation and auto systems help get us and our sailboats to our destinations faster and safer.

Technology is moving forward and I’m sure the sailboat is the ultimate power-making and most efficient vehicle on the planet. The research and development starting point for all things electric is here.