Elco, Whaly partner on eco-friendly coaching boat

Elco Motor Yachts and Whaly Boats have partnered to create an eco-friendly coaching boat for Fort Lauderdale, Fla.-based Sail Last, a non-profit corporation that provides youth development through sailboat racing instruction for junior sailors.

Elco’s EP-50 electric outboard and paired lithium batteries are said to provide performance equal to a 50-hp gasoline engine. (Photo: Elco)

The coaching platform is based on the Whaly 455R. Designed as a multipurpose work and rescue vessel, the double-walled, 14-ft. 9-in. 455R is made from UV-resistant recycled polyethylene that Whaly said is robust, self-bailing and 100% recyclable.

The 455R is powered by Elco’s EP-50 electric outboard and paired lithium batteries said to provide performance equal to a 50-hp gasoline engine. The combination enables up to eight hours of operation, with bursts up to eight knots to keep pace with the sailboats.

Dedicated to creating sustainable sailing opportunities for youth, Sail Last selected the Elco outboard for its simplicity of operation, ease of maintenance and zero emissions, said Tom Hansen, Sail Last executive director. On shore, the 455R’s batteries are charged via solar panels to reduce the organization’s carbon footprint even further.

“We’ve partnered with Whaly Boats on numerous projects,” said Dean Heinemann, Elco general manager. “But Sail First is unique in that beyond the benefits of introducing young people to sailing, it invests 50% of its efforts into teaching STEM skills.”