Reuben Trane, president of Island Pilot, LLC, has announced that the company will introduce the first-ever zero emissions production motoryacht in America this fall at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show* taking place October 30 – November 3. At this much anticipated unveiling, the Island Pilot DSe Hybrid 12m is expected to be seen as the most economic as well as environmentally-friendly choice in yachting due to its remarkable efficiency. This was accomplished by the creative utilization of technology that combines diesel, solar and electric power – the components that create the DSe acronym.

“There are so many reasons this boat makes sense in today’s environment,” said Trane. “At a time with record high oil prices, we are bringing to market a product that will dramatically reduce the most visible expense of a recreational motor boat – the cost of diesel. The DSe’s efficiency will make all the difference in the world when compared to other luxury yachts. Plus, she’s ready for alternative fuels. The DSe’s Steyr ‘monoblock’ engine runs equally well on bio-diesel.”

Measuring 12 meters (39’6”) and utilizing a 6kw solar array plus a 20kwh battery bank, the DSe Hybrid 12 m can travel at seven knots in Zero Emissions Mode using only electric power or up to 13 knots using diesel. Additionally, enough solar energy can be produced while at anchor to support a comfortable lifestyle without the need to run a diesel generator. The revolutionary combination of technology (Steyr Motors Serial Hybrid Propulsion System, Outback Energy Solar Controllers and Inverters, and Enersys “True Lead” Odyssey Batteries), along with a structural design resulting in the maximum amount of horizontal area on which to mount solar panels, is what enables the DSe to achieve this new standard for cruising economy.

While the DSe is constructed for utmost efficiency, the yacht has all the amenities and comforts of the most luxurious cruising yachts. Such features include:

On-deck master stateroom (just forward of the deckhouse) with a forward-facing queen-sized “sleigh bed” and a 270-degree panoramic view provided by 30”-high windows on three sides. Steps lead down to the extensive dressing room and head in the starboard hull.

Expansive guest stateroom with ensuite head, dressing room and island queen bed that converts into a pair of single berths.

The spacious and comfortable “great room” and galley includes two settees, a high-low table, a 26” HDTV and a Bose home theater.

An express-style bridge with wrap-around seating for eight, twin helm chairs and centerline console.

Technological features throughout, including a Garmin 15” touch screen with Garmin HD radar, Imtra Marine LED lighting products, Tecnautic “Fly by Wire” controls and gyro autopilot, CookTek induction cook tops, four zones of air conditioning, Hitachi hi-tech refrigerator with ice maker, a KVH Satellite TV antenna with DirecTV receiver and a dinghy with a Torqueedo electric motor.

“Our goal from the initial concept stages two years ago was to deliver six knots on solar energy alone,” said Trane. “Sea trials earlier this year proved it can be done! We feel the DSe represents a real breakthrough, opening the door to a new era of environmentally-friendly and efficient cruising yachts.”