Inboard Ski Boat can be Electrified

⚡️ Answering the question: Is it time to go electric on the water?

Your weekly newsletter covering the electrification of the marine sector. Issue 86. Not a subscriber? Join here for free.

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⚓️ INBOARD SKI BOAT - ELECTRIFIED

EVOA has introduced an electric version of the MasterCraft ProStar ski boat, integrating its E1 propulsion system. This system features an axial-flux motor and an 800-volt architecture, delivering over 400 horsepower and 550 lb-ft of torque. The setup includes a 155 kWh battery pack, offering approximately three hours of runtime per charge under typical watersports conditions.

The electric ProStar maintains the handling and performance characteristics of its internal combustion counterpart. The E1 system provides immediate torque and a quiet operation, aligning with the requirements of competitive three-event skiing.

EVOA's E1 system is adaptable to various marine drive configurations, including inboard, V-drive, and stern-drive setups. The company has also applied this technology to other models, such as the Supra EV550, which utilizes a similar powertrain.

The electric ProStar was showcased at the Grand Rapids Boat Show, where it attracted attention from both recreational skiers and industry professionals. This development signifies a shift in the watersports industry towards sustainable and high-performance electric propulsion systems.

Regarding weight, the standard MasterCraft ProStar has a dry weight of 3,300 pounds. The electric version is approximately 115 pounds heavier, bringing its weight to around 3,415 pounds. This increase is due to the addition of the electric drivetrain and battery system.

Check out their recent YouTube video below.

🏄🏾‍♂️ A LITTLE FIN THAT COULD

The Boost Fin is an electric propulsion system designed to enhance surfing and paddleboarding by providing additional thrust. It attaches to most surfboards and stand-up paddleboards using various adapters, including options for longboards, FCS, Futures, and soft-top boards. Installation takes about five minutes and requires no drilling. The fin is controlled via a waterproof wrist remote, allowing users to activate short or long boost modes. An accompanying mobile app enables further customization of speed and boost setting. The standard Boost Fin weighs approximately 2.7 pounds and delivers up to 20 pounds of thrust, reaching speeds up to 10 mph. Its battery provides up to 90 minutes of operation, depending on usage patterns. The Long Range model offers double the battery capacity, extending usage up to 180 minutes and increasing thrust to 25 pounds. Both models are constructed from glass fiber reinforced polymer and ABS plastic, designed to withstand harsh water conditions and meet the IPX8 waterproof standards.

Users report that the Boost Fin assists in reaching the lineup more efficiently and catching more waves with less paddling effort. It is particularly beneficial for beginners and those seeking to reduce physical strain during sessions. However, some users have noted limitations in battery life when used continuously at high power, especially for stand-up paddleboarding over extended periods. The device is optimized for intermittent use, providing bursts of power rather than continuous propulsion.

Source - Boost Surfing website

The Boost Fin represents a technological advancement in water sports, offering an alternative for those looking to enhance their surfing or paddleboarding experience. While it may not replace traditional paddling entirely, it provides an option for users to extend their time on the water and reduce fatigue.

For more information, visit the official Boost Surfing website.

📅 WEEKLY ARTICLES/TRENDS

ARTICLES (18 – 25 May 2025)

  • £59 million financing for Uber Boats by Thames Clippers (19 May) – NatWest and Santander each lent £29.5 million to expand the operator’s zero-emission fleet, upgrade dry-dock facilities and add pier charging on the Thames. (link)

  • Berkeley Marina commissions all-electric workboat (24 May) – The 24-ft Vita Seal RIB, powered by a Vita/Evoy drive, will patrol docks, tow vessels and clear debris—demonstrating real-world marina electrification. (link)

  • Bloomberg: “Tesla-style” push for premium e-boats (23 May) – A feature on startups such as Arc Boat Co. and X Shore shows high-end craft leading the shift toward mainstream electric runabouts. (link)

TRENDS

  • Scale is arriving: commercial operators (Incat, Thames Clippers) are ordering multi-vessel fleets, signalling confidence in electric propulsion beyond prototypes.

  • Infrastructure follows funding: pier upgrades, marina chargers and R&D hubs are part of every rollout plan.

  • Workboat use-cases grow: Vita Seal shows ports and marinas can electrify small-duty craft today, reducing noise and emissions without range anxiety.

  • Premium-first consumer play: recreational brands are still price-heavy, but the path mirrors early EV adoption—expect mid-price models once volumes rise.

🖌️ SOCIAL MEDIA POST OF THE WEEK

Humorous post from Electrifed Marina!

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