World’s first all-electric Tender & Glass Bottom Boat launches

The clean, green approach to eco-tourism of Sailaway Port Douglas, Tropical North Queensland, has driven the purchase of a new 22-passenger “eTender” EV Discovery. The self-sufficient solar powered vessel provides exceptional “whisper quiet” customer education experiences, less disruption to observe turtles and the vast marine life in a passive way.

Sailaway’s 100% electric tender harnesses the latest technology from Torqeedo, the global leader in electric marine power. The fully electric Cruise 12R outboards and paired 48v lithium-ion batteries are perfect to operate in iconic, beautifully natural locations. Direct sun power alone is sufficient to drive the vessel during reef and environment interpretations when used as a glass bottom boat. A concept brought to life by Sailaway Port Douglas, EV Discovery is designed to operate as both a transfer tender to the island and glass bottom boat for coral viewing. 

The new e-Tender takes guests on both the Full Day Low Isles (A$307 / £158), as well as Afternoon and Sunset Cruises (from A$83 / £43. Tours are available to book on their website (sailawayportdouglas.com).

The news follows hot on the heels of Solar Whisper’s commitment of being the only zero emission boat on the Daintree River (Julaymba), allowing visitors to quietly glide up to crocodiles and other wildlife without scaring them or hurting their habitat. A Daintree River Wildlife & Crocodile Cruise on the solar electric boat costs from A$18 (£9) for a one hour tour. 

With Cairns’ premier reef and island tours, Ocean Freedom and Ocean Free, guests experience a Great Barrier Reef tour on a glass-bottomed boat, whilst connecting with the sustainable and responsible tourism practises the 28-year-old operator adheres to. These currently include eco interpretation with Master Reef Guides and Marine Interpreters, whilst the newest vessel in the making is a 25-metre electric-hybrid eco catamaran, due to launch in June 2025 that will be the world’s first model. 4-hour reef tours cost A$255 (approx £130) per adult. 

Access to Tropical North Queensland has never been easier with increased capacity from Singapore Airlines onto Cairns from London Heathrow.