[PCW] Hybrid powercats

[Pat Reischmann]

Kites, diesel electric, retractable drive units? Why? The circle is spiraling,
none of these alternatives are going to be able to cruise in the teens or
twenties, so they are as I see it, sailcat alternatives. Why not just go to a
sailcat? A well designed and built 45 ft sailcat, can motor at 10 knots and
burn a couple of gallons an hour, and sail in the teens. Too hard? Set it up
with a freestanding mast, a single electric winch to run everything,
self-tacking jib, and a nine year old child could sail it. Too wide? shorten
the rig, narrow the beam and it will still blow away any kite rig. Frankly
there is nothing more efficient on the water than a well designed sailing cat
hull form. The cost difference of the diesel hybrid's that are out there
Glacier, Solomon, compared to conventional small diesels and a generator,
would pay for five or more years of diesel fuel, the systems are complicated,
vunerable to lightning hits, and in most cases heavier, all the while the
diesel engines are just getting better and better (common rail, electronic)
etc. Worried about cost? Buy a used 40 ft. sailing cat for 250-275k, don't
want to sail?, Pull the rig out of it, add slightly bigger diesels (50-75 hp)
add a wedge or trim tab to the transom and cruise 10-12 knots and burn three
gallons per hour.