A first version in 2018
The Silent 55 (16.7 m) was presented as a world premiere in Cannes in 2018. This catamaran, which runs solely on solar energy, was conceived by its founders Heike and Michael Köhler, designers of the prototype Solarwave 46 in 2010.
During its official presentation, the Austrian company had been strongly questioned about the "unlimited" capabilities of the multihull. This is probably what prompted Silent-Yachts to present in September 2019, an improved version of the Silent 55.
Completely redesigned powertrain
This new version receives a completely reworked powertrain. The batteries will be much more powerful euros 210 kWh euros, as will the motors euros two electric motors of 250 kW. Structural improvements have also been made and contribute to a better noise reduction.
"We have upgraded the Silent 55 to install the best technology available and satisfy our customers. We've reduced noise and made structural improvements to make the journey and customer experience more comfortable than ever." specifies the construction site.
The Silent 55's passers-by
Solar panels and inverter
With 30 solar panels of up to 10 kW, the Silent 55 uses solar charge controllers and lithium batteries, which can be used for night navigation. Finally, a 15 kVa inverter supplies power to the household appliances. No generator should be needed to run the air conditioning or cooking at anchor.
"The generator is only used to recharge the batteries in rare cases. For example, when you need to sail faster for a long time or in bad weather." supports the construction site.
According to the shipyard, the electrical system is powerful enough to provide comfort features such as an electric stern platform, a 1,500-watt electric windlass and other features.
Finally, a desalinator powered electrically by the sun should produce enough water to supply the six cabins with a reasonable consumption rate. However, the shipyard does not specify the "reasonable" amount of water.
The large cockpit
More comfort on board
With this new electric propulsion, the Swiss shipyard announces to have reduced the noise of operation of the machines but also that of the household appliances.
"Our customers benefit from a healthy environment with no noise, no vibration, no smoke and unlimited range without using a drop of fuel. The Silent 55 is self-contained and virtually maintenance free." argues the site.
"The Silent 55's operating costs are significantly lower than those of powerboats using more traditional propulsion systems. It can sail for several hours at normal speed of 12 knots and all day and evening at reduced speed" adds the yard. " The Silent 55 can travel up to 100 miles a day for weeks on end." adds the site.
Owner's cabin
Five different layouts
The model on display at the 2019 Cannes Yachting Festival will feature a standard layout with a large saloon on the main deck and four spacious cabins in the hulls, including an owner's cabin installed, forward of the full width saloon (8.46m).
The Silent 55 is offered in five different layouts: from three to six cabins with three to four bathrooms. In three of the layouts, there is the imposing owner's cabin in the bow. The guest cabins are located in the port and starboard hulls and have double or twin beds and a private bathroom with shower. Other layouts are available on request.
Guest cabin with bathroom
"We designed a comfortable environment that is conducive to living at sea, even for extended cruising. The Silent 55 offers large, light-filled living spaces thanks to the large hull and deck windows that let in light afloat." comments the construction site.
The main deck is a large common space of 40 m2 shared between a lounge, a helm station and a kitchen with freezer, refrigerator and induction cooker. Outside, the wide gangways allow safe movement on board, from the spacious cockpit protected by a hard-top to the deck lounge at the front. Finally, the flybridge offers a second helm station as well as a large aft bench seat and several sunbeds.
Square
Air conditioning and heating are optional and allow for all weather sailing.
A rigorous construction
The Silent 55 is built using the infusion method with a fiberglass composite sandwich. The hull has been reinforced with carbon fiber at various stress points. The bulkheads are watertight for safety and the interior furnishings have been fixed to create a torsion-resistant hull structure.
The base price of the new Silent 55 is 1.4 million euros. The shipyard specifies that many options are included as standard. The shipyard says that after the first model was built, three more have been ordered.
Flybridge
Front deck
