Experience Sustainable Innovation with Max Cruise Marine’s Hybrid Sailing Catamarans
At Max Cruise Marine, we are pioneers in sustainable sailing, offering hybrid electric sailing catamarans that seamlessly combine performance, luxury, and eco-friendliness. Our optional hybrid propulsion packages are available for models such as the Max 45SC, Max 48SC, and Max 55SC, providing sailors with true off-grid capabilities.
Designed for True Off-Grid Exploration
Each hybrid system integrates twin Beta Marine diesel engines paired with electric drives, complemented by substantial lithium battery banks and solar arrays. For instance, the Max 45SC features twin 30 hp engines with 10 kW electric drives, a 5 kW generator, 3 kW of solar power, and a 30 kWh lithium battery bank. This configuration ensures energy independence, allowing sailors to explore remote destinations without relying on shore power.

Owner Insights: Living with Hybrid Power on the Max 48SC
Owner Insights: Living with Hybrid Power on the Max 48SC
Description:
In this short video, Kevin—the owner of Ditto, a Max Cruise 48SC—shares his firsthand experience with the hybrid propulsion system onboard. Hear how the system performs in real-world cruising, the benefits it offers for energy efficiency, noise reduction, and ease of use, and why hybrid technology has transformed the way he sails.
🎥 Watch the full walkthrough video now and experience Ditto, the Max 48SC Hull 2, up close!
Advantages of Hybrid Sailing Catamarans
Why Hybrid Propulsion Is Changing Long-Range Cruising
The world of sailing is evolving, and nowhere is that more evident than in the rise of hybrid propulsion systems. Once considered a novelty, hybrid-electric drive is now at the forefront of marine innovation — especially in the long-range cruising sector. At Max Cruise Marine, we’ve embraced this shift, integrating hybrid systems into our high-performance catamarans to deliver smarter, quieter, and more efficient bluewater experiences.
Here’s why hybrid propulsion is reshaping the future of long-range cruising.
⚡ 1. Fuel Efficiency Meets Silent Running
Traditional diesel engines are powerful but notoriously inefficient at low speeds — the exact speeds used when entering anchorages, navigating marinas, or motor-sailing in light wind.
Hybrid propulsion solves this:
- Electric motors offer instant torque with virtually no fuel consumption.
- Cruisers can motor quietly for hours, then recharge batteries using solar, regeneration under sail, or a compact generator.
This drastically reduces fuel use, operational noise, and engine hours — all while extending your vessel’s autonomy.
🌱 2. Lower Environmental Impact
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword. Today’s cruisers are increasingly eco-conscious, seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint on the oceans they love.
With hybrid systems:
- You burn less diesel.
- You can integrate renewable energy (solar, hydro-regeneration).
- You produce fewer emissions and minimize underwater noise pollution.
For long-distance sailors, this means cleaner cruising with a lighter environmental wake.
🔌 3. Energy Independence at Sea
Hybrid catamarans — like those built by Max Cruise Marine — often feature lithium battery banks, solar arrays, and smart energy management via systems like Victron and Cerbo GX. This allows you to:
- Run onboard appliances (fridges, air con, lights) without a generator.
- Stay anchored in remote locations for days or weeks with no shore power.
- Recharge underway via regen mode while sailing.
The result: total freedom from marina power cords and noisy generators.
⚙️ 4. Performance and Redundancy
Many assume hybrid systems sacrifice performance. In fact, the opposite is often true:
- Dual motor configurations can deliver balanced thrust and better maneuverability.
- With both electric and diesel available, you gain redundancy and peace of mind.
- Intelligent control systems allow for seamless switching between drive modes, optimizing efficiency and power.
When paired with lightweight hulls and efficient design — as seen in our 45SC, 48SC, and 55SC models — hybrid propulsion enhances performance, not limits it.
🧠 5. Smarter Cruising Experience
Modern hybrid systems are integrated with smart displays and apps:
- Monitor battery state, solar input, and power usage in real time.
- Control shore power, charge profiles, and inverter settings remotely.
- Set alarms and automation to optimize energy efficiency on long passages.
It’s a sailing experience tailored for the digital age — giving you more control with less effort.
⛵ The Max Cruise Marine Approach
At Max Cruise Marine, we’ve engineered our hybrid-ready catamarans with a systems-first mindset. Every component — from lightweight composite structures to the battery bays — is designed for performance, sustainability, and long-range reliability.
Whether you’re crossing oceans or exploring island chains, hybrid propulsion gives you:
- Extended range
- Minimal fuel use
- Quiet anchoring
- More freedom
🔚 Final Word
Hybrid propulsion isn’t the future of long-range cruising — it’s the present. As more sailors embrace clean energy, quiet motors, and energy independence, hybrid systems are quickly becoming the new standard for modern voyaging.
Ready to cruise smarter? Max Cruise Marine is already there.
Hybrid Option Packages
Included as an option package for the Max45.
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- Twin Beta or Yanmar Hybrid 30 hp, with 10 kw electric drive,
- 5 kw Electric Generator, Regeneration and shaft clutch
- 6 kw Victron Inverter (2 by 3kw)
- 3 kw of Solar with 3 by MPPT
- 32 kwh Lithium battery bank with can bus
- 48 Volt Windless and and Deck Sailing winch
- DC/DC 48/12 for Electrics and Lights
- Induction cook top, and Microwave convection Oven
Included as an option package for the Max48.
- Twin Beta Hybrid 38 hp or Twin Yanmar 40 hp, with 10 kw electric drive,
- 5 kw Electric Generator, Regeneration and shaft clutch
- 6 kw Victron Inverter (2 by 3kw)
- 3.6 kw of Solar with 2 by MPPT
- 35kw kwh Lithium battery bank with can bus
- 48 Volt Windless and and Deck Sailing winch
- DC/DC 48/12 for Electrics and Lights
- Induction cook top, and Microwave convection Oven
Included as an option package for the Max55.
- Twin Beta or Yanmar Hybrid 50hp, with 10 kw electric drive,
- 5 kw Electric Generator, Regeneration and shaft clutch
- 15 kw Victron Inverter (2 by 3kw)
- 4,8kw of Solar with 2 by MPPT
- 40 kw of Lithium battery bank with can bus
- 48 Volt Windless and and Deck Sailing winch
- DC/DC 48/12 for Electrics and Lights
- Induction cook top, and Microwave convection Ove
Electrical System Highlights
Our hybrid sailing catamarans are equipped with advanced electrical systems designed for safety and efficiency:
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High Output Solar Power: 2.2 kW standard, with upgrade options up to 3.2 kW, achieving up to 75% recharge per day. Cruise Marine+1
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Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery Bank: 21.3 kWh capacity, utilizing the safest lithium chemistry.
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Powerful Inverters: 6 kW inverter power with multi-charger options, supporting all-electric appliances.
These features ensure a reliable power supply, allowing you to enjoy modern conveniences while minimizing environmental impact.
Hybrid Marine Propulsion
Our dual Beta Marine diesel hybrids provide electric propulsion backed by diesel engines, offering:
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Hydro Power Regeneration: Over 400W at 7.5 knots, achieving 90% recharge over 24 hours under sail.
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Generator Power Backup: 5 kW generator per diesel engine, ensuring continuous power availability
This setup delivers a harmonious balance between sustainable energy use and dependable performance.
Set Sail with Confidence
Whether you’re planning long-distance voyages or coastal cruising, Max Cruise Marine’s hybrid sailing catamarans offer the perfect blend of innovation, comfort, and sustainability. Experience the freedom of sailing with reduced environmental impact and enhanced efficiency.
Hybrid Sailing Catamarans
Experience the future of sustainable yachting with Max Cruise Marine’s hybrid electric sailing catamarans. Designed for efficiency, comfort, and performance, our eco-friendly sailing catamarans combine wind power with advanced electric propulsion. These dual-powered catamarans offer quiet operation, reduced emissions, and lower fuel costs—ideal for modern bluewater cruisers seeking an energy-efficient sailing vessel. Crafted with lightweight composites and precision CNC technology, each hybrid-powered catamaran delivers a seamless blend of innovation and luxury. Whether you’re planning long-range ocean voyages or coastal adventures, our green energy sailing catamarans provide a smarter, cleaner way to sail.