ABB is collaborating with expedition travel company Quasar Expeditions, based in Ecuador, to modernize the iconic yacht formerly known as Galú for hybrid-electric propulsion. The conversion will make the vessel, originally built by Italian shipyard Benetti in the 1970s, the first of its kind.
The conversion from conventional combustion engines to hybrid-electric propulsion will allow guests on board the 52.9-meter vessel to experience quiet, comfortable, and low-emission sailing in one of the world’s most sensitive biosphere reserves.
Comprising ABB Onboard DC Grid™ power system platform, energy storage system (ESS), permanent magnet propulsion motors, and modern diesel gensets, the hybrid-electric propulsion system allows the vessel to operate entirely on battery power during anchor and short crossings. In addition to minimizing fuel consumption, this will support compliance with Galápagos National Park’s strict noise and emission regulations.
“Our first visit to the Galápagos in 1979 changed us forever and inspired Quasar Expeditions,” commented Eduardo Diez, Owner and Chairman, Quasar Expeditions. “Today, tourism brings both benefits and risks to these islands we love. That’s why we partnered with ABB to develop Quasar Conservation, a hybrid-electric yacht that redefines sustainable luxury without compromise.”
As well as extending Quasar Conservation’s operational life by up to 25 years, the modernization project preserves the yacht’s classic aesthetic and craftsmanship – and is more cost-efficient and sustainable than building a new vessel.
“Expedition cruising is one of the most technology-intensive growth segments in the maritime industry, with operators increasingly specifying advanced solutions that enhance efficiency while preserving luxury and passenger comfort,” said Tomas Arhippainen, Business Line Manager, Marine Service & Digital, ABB’s Marine & Ports division. “By using ABB’s hybrid-electric system, Quasar Expeditions’ Quasar Conservation perfectly demonstrates the benefits that can be achieved through a comprehensive, collaborative modernization project.”
Ideally suited to space-limited retrofit applications, ABB’s Onboard DC Grid™ provides the high fault- tolerance levels that are critical for exploration cruise vessels operating in remote waters. The modular DC power platform enables the seamless integration of the 814-kilowatt-hour battery ESS and modern diesel gensets. With ABB’s PEMS™ power and energy management system optimizing the use of total onboard energy resources, this combined hybrid solution – including highly efficient permanent magnet motors – offers significant grid-to-propeller efficiency gains compared to conventional mechanical drivetrains.
