Myanmar tourism company, Singapore-listed Memories Group, will set sail Asia’s first fully solar-run yacht around the Myeik Archipelago this month

The first fully solar-run yacht in Asia will set sail this month offering expedition around the Myeik Archipelago, the operating company Burma Boating said on Wednesday.

The firm, owned by Myanmar tourism company Singapore-listed Memories Group, revealed its latest addition to its fleet, a 16.7-metre 100 percent solar-powered catamaran, which can accommodate up to six guests, and three crew members.

According to the vessel's designer, Silent-Yachts, this yacht, built in 2018, becomes the first fully solar-run boat to sail in the Asian continent. The S55’s 30 mounted solar panels create 10kWp, allowing it to cruise an unlimited distance on a regular sunny day – but also maintains a fuel-based back-up engine. It can reach maximum speed of 12 knots thanks to its two 30kW motors.

“The S55 will leave a minimal environmental footprint, but offer travellers unprecedented sailing comfort," said Burma Boating’s general manager Eric Poepper. He added that even when anchored, the generator noises dissipate leaving an environment where "the passengers [can] focus entirely on the magnificence of the Myeik islands, landscapes and sunsets."

Private tailor-made cruises on the S55, starting at US$3200 per day, are now available.

Burma Boating is part of Memories Group, the tourism arm of First Myanmar Investment Limited (FMI)) and Yoma Strategic Holdings. It started trading on Singapore’s stock exchange in January 2018. The group’s services now cover seven of the country’s major tourist attractions, including Bagan, Tanintharyi, Kayin, Yangon and Kayah states and regions.

(The Myanmar Times: https://www.mmtimes.com/news/myeik-welcomes-asias-first-solar-yacht.html )

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