Fernando Alonso is not only passionate about racing on the asphalt of Formula 1 circuits around the world, but also experiencing the sea aboard the best that contemporary sailing can offer, and the two-time world champion wanted to share his first impressions after try their brand new 60 Sunreef Power Eco, an exclusive electric catamaran. After Rafa Nadal, owner of a Sunreef 80, the single-seater phenomenon also decided to get his own green yacht.
However, the pilot did not limit himself to purchasing the boat produced by Sunreef Yachts, the Polish manufacturer specialized in ecological boating, but was also closely involved in the entire construction and customization process. In fact, Alonso made several trips to the Gdansk shipyard, perfecting the lines of his catamaran with the designers. The result is a determined commitment to sustainability and the latest technology combined with maximum comfort.
The champion whose life and career are characterized by speed and high-level competition has chosen to slow down and enjoy the sea to its fullest. In September 2021, on the occasion of the order from the Polish builder, the Asturian explained the reasons for this choice during a press conference at the Cannes Nautical Festival: “Sunreef Yachts combines luxury and sustainability like no other shipyard. When I visited their facilities in Poland I saw first-hand how they take care of all the details. "This is what luxury eco-friendly yachting should be like."
The boat is equipped with a solar power system that covers an area of 68.6 square meters and can produce up to 13 kWp of clean energy for a smooth and completely silent electric boating experience. Solar panels are integrated into the hull sides, superstructure and curved areas of the catamaran, contributing to both functionality and aesthetics. Thanks to photovoltaic cells, the panels absorb solar energy to generate direct current (DC), which is then converted into alternating current (AC) to power all the devices on board.
The custom ultralight batteries developed by Sunreef Yachts and the energy-saving air conditioning system also contribute to reducing environmental impact. In addition, the boat is equipped with wind generators and eco-responsible finishing materials. The yacht provides exactly the sailing experience that the champion was looking for: “long, silent and smoke-free cruises that allow you to enjoy the sea at a completely new level,” explained Alonso.
This Sunreef 60 is also an opportunity to live moments of serenity with family and friends, being a 18 meters designed to accommodate up to 12 people, distributed in six double cabins located in the two hulls, in addition to a crew of four members. “On board the only thing that matters is tranquility, fresh air and good company. Sailing should not be a matter of ego, for me it is about sharing good times and being respectful of the environment,” says the Asturian.
The width of the boat, more than 10 meters, allows for a large deck area, where both moments of relaxation and conviviality find space, and it is fully customizable, with areas that include a large terrace in the bow and a cabin in Ideal stern for placing large communal tables. As is already essential in this type of boat, the Sunreef 60 also has a hydraulic platform in the stern, which can be used as a beach club or as direct access to the water.
Finally, thanks to the innovative garage and aft platform, the boat can carry a tender, jet skis and other luxurious toys. Inside, the finishes are of the highest quality and completely personalized, the large panoramic windows let in a lot of natural light, creating a cozy atmosphere and a feeling of direct contact with the natural environment.
Fernando Alonso's new flagship is an excellent example of an increasingly popular trend in high-end yachting. Technological innovation, in fact, is opening up new possibilities to reduce the environmental impact of boats and make the boating experience more ecological as well as comfortable. Thanks to technical advances in clean propulsion, sailors can now enjoy the sea responsibly, contributing to the conservation of the marine environment.
This new generation of catamarans can boast numerous advantages, including greater stability, speed and efficiency compared to monohulls of the same length, as well as more economical management in daily use. They are virtually unsinkable and many marinas today offer dedicated moorings at prices comparable to a monohull of the same size. Structural comfort both while sailing and at anchor is combined with the large volumes available: the width is reduced, it is true, but the longitudinal development of the sleeping area does not give rise to any complaints.
Fernando Alonso's new eco-friendly catamaran demonstrates how solar technology can now be seamlessly integrated into a luxury boat without compromising performance. The combination of innovation and environmental sensitivity represents the future of yachting, paving the way for a new era of ecological navigation, where the highest standards in terms of comfort and elegance are combined with the maximum of sustainability.
The driver's own words reflect the importance of this vision, where tranquility and respect for the environment occupy the center of an exclusive experience: "once on the track, everything returns to speed. On the other hand, when I enjoy my free time, I want to travel in total silence, without emissions, without vibrations.” An oasis of peace for the most competitive of pilots.
