Optima Electric Yachts from the UK announced in May 2026 that the company is looking for a new owner. The company has been developing electrically powered yachts with a special hull design intended to reduce energy consumption for more than five years. To date, Optima has received £1.6 million in funding for research and development. With the takeover by a new owner, series production is set to begin.
Hull technology for more range
The centrepiece of the Optima boats is a patented hull form that was developed with the help of computer calculations (Computational Fluid Dynamics, CFD for short). These calculations simulate the flow of water on the hull and show where resistance occurs. According to the manufacturer, optimising the shape significantly reduces resistance. This means less energy consumption and therefore a greater range on a single battery charge. According to the shipyard, the range at cruising speed should be over 150 nautical miles, which corresponds to around 278 kilometres.
Optima e10 as flagship
The first production model is the Optima e10, a 10.6 metre long electric yacht for up to eight people. The propulsion system produces 40 kilowatts, which corresponds to around 54 hp. In 2023, the e10 became the first electric boat to circumnavigate the Isle of Wight without stopping. The route is 55 nautical miles long, which is around 102 kilometres. After the journey, it cost £20 to recharge the battery. The boat has won several awards for its efficiency and design. The e10 is aimed at leisure skippers who want to travel quietly and with zero emissions.
Commercial models for passenger transport
In addition to the leisure yacht, Optima has also developed concepts for commercial use. The e14 model is 14 metres long and can be used as a water taxi or small ferry. It offers space for twelve passengers in a luxury version. For local public transport on the water, the shipyard is planning larger versions with up to 50 seats. These boats are intended to appeal to hotels, resorts and cities that want to transport their guests or citizens along waterways in an environmentally friendly way. Many local authorities and tourism businesses are increasingly opting for emission-free means of transport in order to fulfil legal requirements and improve their image.
Growing market for electric drives
The demand for electric boat drives is increasing worldwide. Stricter environmental regulations in harbours and nature reserves are limiting the use of combustion engines. At the same time, governments and private companies are investing in charging infrastructure at marinas and moorings. Optima sees this as an opportunity for its hull concept, which the manufacturer claims can also be transferred to larger ships. Ferries, workboats and luxury yachts with similar technology are conceivable.
What the acquisition includes
A potential buyer acquires the rights to the patented hull technology, all previous development data and the tools for boat construction. This includes the designs for the e10, the e14 and other planned models. The company has validated prototypes that have already been tested in the field. Interested parties can take over the company completely or enter into strategic partnerships. David Kendall, Managing Director of Optima Electric Yachts, explains: "We have spent years trying to solve one of the biggest barriers to boat electrification - hull efficiency. Now we are looking for the right partner to move into commercial production."
Jan-Ole Puls
Editor Test & Technology
