Man who spent 200 days building a solar-powered explorer yacht that can run forever shares what he thinks the future of solar yachts looks like

A man living aboard a solar-powered explorer yacht shared his thoughts on the future of solar yachts after building his own floating experiment.

The creator behind the YouTube channel True North Yachts documented life aboard his prototype vessel, the Helios 11, while traveling through Europe’s inland waterways.

From quiet French canals to plans for Mediterranean cruising, the DIY project served as both a home and a testing ground for new solar boating ideas.

Along the way, he answered questions from viewers curious about everything from onboard toilets to the future of high-tech solar vessels.

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The solar yacht has picked up a few battle scars

The Helios 11 was designed as a minimalist but surprisingly capable solar-powered explorer yacht.

Built with a narrow hull and covered in solar panels, the vessel generated enough electricity to power propulsion and most daily living needs.

The creator explained that despite its simple construction, the boat produced an abundance of energy whenever it sat in sunlight, especially while docked in a harbor.

That extra power opened the door to upgrades.

For example, he planned to install a proper shower system using an electric water heater, noting that the boat’s solar setup could easily handle the energy demand.

Until then, he had relied on swimming in rivers and oceans or visiting gyms along the route for a proper wash.

Of course, the Helios 11 wasn’t perfect.

During his journey through French canals, the boat picked up a few cosmetic scratches after bumping into lock walls.

Fortunately, the fiberglass hull remained intact, and he explained that a quick repaint during the next dry dock would make the marks disappear.

Solar-powered vehicles are a new trend

Looking ahead, he also discussed plans for the next generation of the project: the Helios 22.

Construction could begin within a few months if funding lined up, though he admitted he was keeping an eye on rapidly evolving technology.

Improvements in battery density or solar panel efficiency could significantly change the boat’s performance, making it worth waiting before starting the build.

The conversation even ventured into more futuristic territory.

Future technology

The content creator discussed the possibility of ground-effect craft, sometimes called ekranoplans, which glide just above the water using aerodynamic lift.

In theory, such vehicles could travel enormous distances on solar power thanks to their extreme efficiency.

Still, he emphasized that practicality remained the main focus of his current design philosophy.

According to the content creator, ultra-efficient hull shapes, simple systems, and abundant solar energy were what allowed the Helios 11 to operate cheaply and quietly for long journeys.

After months of experimentation, the experience had convinced him that solar boating was only just getting started.

In fact, he was optimistic that future solar yachts could become even more capable as technology continued to improve.

He isn’t the only content creator who saw potential in solar-powered vehicles.

This American man built an infinite range solar powered car using a broken hoverboard, while another YouTuber built a drone that uses solar power to take flight.

It would seem that whether you’re on land, at sea, or in the air, solar power finds a way to power your journey.

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