In addition to its original profile, where the Silent 62 Trideck really stands out is in its propulsion system. From the outset, the brand has opted for an electric motor powered by solar panels. A bold choice at the outset, but one that has now reached a certain maturity.
16.8 kW of solar panels
The 62 Trideck is no exception to the rule, taking advantage of the hard-top and roof of the main deck to install numerous solar panels with an impressive total output of 16.8 kW. The energy is then stored in 34 batteries totalling 348 kWh, so you can see what's coming.
This energy is used to power the two 340 kW electric motors for a cruising speed of around 7 knots. Although the catamaran is capable of reaching 10 knots at top speed, this is not really the Silent's main objective. Instead, the Silent is aimed at long-distance cruising, with a range of 1600 nautical miles at 6 knots with all energies combined.
Should the solar system run out of power, the 150 kW generator can always be counted on to take over. The shipyard also plans to replace the large generator with two smaller models to improve weight distribution and add a little more versatility.
Silent navigation
Once on the water, the results are convincing. The first thing to impress is, of course, its silent operation. Under the impulse of the electric motors, the Silent 62 gently leaves the pontoon and emerges from the marina to the sound of lapping water on the hull. While on paper the 7-knot speed may seem modest, once aboard the Silent doesn't give the impression of being a slow boat, there's even something magical about moving forward in silence, rather like a sailboat. This silence is not confined to the cockpit, the main deck or the flybridge, since a quick visit to the cabins confirms this peacefulness, with no stray vibrations to be noted.
As a catamaran, the Silent 62's maneuverability is quite remarkable. However, on this first model, there's no steering wheel at all, in favor of a rather novel kind of joystick. This technological choice, found on both driving positions, is a little disconcerting at first glance, as it requires a very gentle hand. However, according to the shipyard and the boat's captain, this element should be replaced by a more traditional steering wheel for a more comfortable ride. As on the 60, the 62 Trideck offers the option of a 9 to 12 m2 kite wing to take the load off the propulsion system, although with an unladen weight of over 46 tonnes, its effectiveness remains to be proven.
