While on the hard, the sail opened in a storm, the mast broke in half and just like that, I could no longer sail on my friends Tartan 33.
That is until my friend bought a second Tartan 33. Then Nova Luxe bought this boat to test electric motors and bifacial solar panels.

We learned a lot, tested an electric yacht motor, tested a WaterWorld motor, tested the inverter charging system, tested 48v->12v step downs. Designed and constructed a solar array with aluminum piping. Tested if bifacials get extra power from water refraction. Tested how far could we could push the limits.

We now understand performance characteristics and can better recommend electric motors for sailboats. Beyond that we tested the feasibility of converting an old sailboat to a powerboat with tons of solar for the purpose of off-grid living. Yes, it is possible and we believe the market for converting older sailboats into off-grid homes will one day be huge. This new use will save many from ending up in a dumpster. A new use for an old product is one of the best forms of recycling!

Solar Sailer was sold in the summer of 2024 and then motored 500 miles from New York City, USA to Toronto, Canada.