PEAKLIFE

Memories group introduces S55 a 100% solar-powered catamaran for cruises in the Mergui Archipelago. S55 is believed to be the first solar-powered boat to sail Asian seas.

Burma Boating, a sailing firm owned by Myanmar tourism trailblazers Memories Group, finally unveiled the S55 a 16.7-meter solar-powered yacht, offering expeditions around the Mergui Archipelago from January 2019, bringing their latest acquisition to its fleet. The S55 catamaran can accommodate up to six guests and three crew members and is composed of three levels including a flybridge commanding 360-degree views, a 40m² air-conditioned salon, and four cabins – including one 7m-wide suite – each with queen-sized beds and private en-suite bathrooms.

Built in 2018, this ultra-modern catamaran becomes the first 100% solar-run boat to sail in Asia, according to her designers, Silent-Yachts. The S55’s 30 mounted solar panels create 10kWp, which allows her to travel an unlimited distance on an average sunny day. S55 also maintains a fuel-based back-up engine for any emergence cases. It has two silent 30kW motors drive the S55 to a maximum speed of 12 knots allowing the travelers to enjoy a calm and beautiful sail.

S55 is believed to be the first solar-powered boat to sail Asian seas. The benefits of this first solar-powered boat to sail Asian seas cannot be overstated. The S55 will leave a minimal environmental footprint but offer travelers unprecedented sailing comfort. S55 sails as silently over the waves as any sailboat, but without depending on the winds. When anchored, even the usual generator noises will vanish and become a memory of the past, letting the passengers focus entirely on the magnificence of the Mergui islands, landscapes and sunsets.

With the launch of S55 guests can look forward to wining and dining in comfort, in between diving, snorkeling and swimming among the 800 islands, coral reefs and atolls of one of the world’s last untouched paradises. This solar catamaran will be skippered by Captain Ajun May from Germany, an experienced sailor in the archipelago, having previously piloted Burma Boating’s SY Y Not yacht. Burma Boating is part of The Memories Group, which owns and operates several resorts and activities in Myanmar, including hot-air balloon adventures, sailing tours, 5-star hotels and rustic boutique lodges. Burma Boating caters to private tailor-made cruises on the S55 for up to six persons, starting at US$3,200 per day. It also offers a choice of 4-day or 6-day cabin charters leaving from the port of Kawthaung, southern Myanmar, each Saturday from November to May.

Looking forward to an expedition around the Mergui Archipelago go to www.burmaboating.com or email info@burmaboating.com for any bookings and enquiries.