Whale Talk: How an electric boat gives nature a voice

S/V Tomorrow, a Norman Cross 50ft trimaran built by former Boeing engineer Ray Pond, is a testament to innovative design and long-lasting performance. Launched in 1989, this vessel was crafted with an emphasis on lightweight construction and long service life. Over the years it has completed over 20 successful journeys to Alaska. In 2017, the trimaran was repurposed for bioacoustic whale research in Canada. To minimize noise and ensure close, non-invasive interactions with marine life, the vessel underwent a major upgrade, replacing its traditional combustion engine with an Oceanvolt AXC30 electric motor. This modification enables the boat to operate with minimal acoustic impact close to whales. After successful whale research expeditions in Canada, the "S/V Tomorrow" is now set to continue its work in the South Pacific, furthering efforts to study marine accoustics. The trimaran’s journey is an example of how technology and innovation can blend to minimize noise impact on nature.