The German shipyard Pioneer Yachts has launched the first PY60 solar-electric catamaran. Following its sea trials, the yacht is set to make its world debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival.
The German shipyard Pioneer Yachts has launched the first hull of its PY60 solar-electric catamaran. The 18-metre-long yacht, named “Pioneer One”, is the first vessel to be completed by the Stralsund-based shipyard, which was founded in 2024.
Before its public debut, the yacht will undergo an extensive programme of trials under real-world operating conditions. The world premiere of the PY60 is scheduled to take place at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival.
Unlike many other electric yachts, the PY60 was designed from the outset as a solar-electric yacht and was not developed on the basis of a conventional motor yacht. According to the shipyard, the propulsion concept combines solar panels, battery storage, electric motors and diesel generators in an integrated energy management system. This is intended to increase autonomy and reduce dependence on shore-based charging infrastructure.
The catamaran reaches a top speed of 11 kn and a cruising speed of 7.5 kn. The concept is designed to enable longer, energy-efficient voyages with a high degree of independence.
Company founder Mike Frank intends to operate the “Pioneer One” himself and use it as a development platform. The experience gained in practical use is to be incorporated into the further development of future production models.
The Italian design studio Cossutti & Ganz is responsible for the exterior, whilst the interior was designed by Micheletti + Partners. Furthermore, the yacht has been designed to be operated by the owner without a professional crew. A 48-volt electrical system architecture is intended to simplify the technical systems and improve safety, reliability and ease of maintenance compared to high-voltage systems.
