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The Ultimate Hybrid Pioneer: An Insight into the Unique Design Philosophy of Greenline Yachts
Ever since Greenline Yachts was founded, the Slovenia-based shipyard has been deeply concerned with a more environmental approach to yachting practices. This affiliation with sustainable initiatives has resulted in Greenline developing a range of vessels that boast unmatched sustainable advancements, from the construction process itself to the innovations implemented onboard.
Recognised as a shipyard that boasts a distinctive sustainable philosophy, Greenline Yachts has widely become known as one of the most notable ‘hybrid pioneers’ of the industry. Since its inception in 2008, the Slovenian shipyard has sold over 1000 yachts, offering eight hybrid models that range from 39 - 58 ft. Its unique approach to responsible yachting grew from the increase in demand for sustainable yachts, something that Greenline has placed at the forefront of its creations ever since the company was founded.
The Greenline 33 was the shipyard’s debut model, which swiftly became the world’s most popular 10m yacht. Last year, the Greenline 58 fly was launched; coupled with the Greenline 45, these two models marked a new era of design for the Slovenian yard, distinguishing between fly and Coupe styling. Whilst the Coupe designs preserved Greenline’s original sleek lines, the new flybridge yachts feature an elegant exterior space up top.
Greenline Yachts’ owner Vladimir Zinchenko has long been a champion for hybrid electric propulsion, developing the 6G H-Drive serial diesel-electric powertrain which is now in its sixth generation.
‘Our customers have always wanted to immerse themselves in the natural world and preserve it at the same time,’ commented Zinchenko. ‘They want special moments with friends and family on the water but value ecological responsibility and a low impact on the environment. Our range of hybrid yachts allow them to do that, and we are seeing a sharp rise in enquiries as the market changes.’
A series of initiatives have been implemented to elevate Greenline’s design ethos, which is focused on efficiency on the water. One such example is the creation of ‘superdisplacement’ hulls that have been developed and tested to ensure smooth cruising, unmatched stability and efficiency at all speeds, simultaneously providing the vessels with an impressive range and economy.
Luca Raumland, Chief Commercial Officer at Greenline, commented on some more sustainable features of Greenline’s designs: ‘Every yacht has a big expanse of solar panels, lithium batteries and inverters standard, and there’s the option to add more for full off-grid autonomy.’
It is not just the vessels themselves that reflect this sustainable ethos; the construction process is also highly responsible. Some ways in which Greenline has achieved this are through the high-tech foam sandwich used to strengthen the hull that comes from recycled PET plastic, offcuts of wood that are pressed into heating pellets, leftover foam that is reused by another company to produce home insulation plus the use of a certified low emission vinylester resin. On top of this, the production of single-use materials has been completely eliminated from the Greenline production line and every new yacht is equipped with biodegradable green yacht wash, as well as digital manuals over paper. (not sure where to add it but we also use a certified low emission vinylester resin for all our parts)
Greenline Yachts is currently developing the annual Greenline Yachts awards to recognise those owners who have contributed the most to sustainable yachting. For instance, the Owner whose yacht has generated the most solar power that year will be celebrated by the shipyard, highlighting the ways in which Greenline works to empower owners, putting sustainability at the heart of their yachting experiences.
The Slovenian yard has showcased an exceptional design ethos over the years that is not only incredibly important within the approach to more responsible yachting, but successful in encouraging owners to embody a more eco-conscious mindset. We can only expect more exciting initiatives to come from the shipyard, perhaps sooner than expected…
At the Monaco Yacht Show 2024, Greenline Yachts will be presenting a new concept on the very first day of the show. With nothing yet revealed about this highly anticipated project, excitement is rippling across the industry as we await the new development that will be unveiled on the docks of Monaco. Keep your eyes peeled for any more updates surrounding this exciting new development, an initiative which is guaranteed to reflect the incredible design ethos and unique sustainable philosophy of Greenline Yachts: the ultimate hybrid pioneer.