Navier introduces ‘Tesla-like’ approach to yachting

Navier, a Silicon Valley boating startup, has launched its Pioneer Program, which allows the company to form a direct-to-consumer connection similar, it says, to Tesla’s business approach.

Its first product, Navier 27 (N27), is a 27-foot (8.2m) foiling vessel that’s capable of a range exceeding 75 nautical miles at 20kt under electric propulsion. The N27 was announced at the Palm Beach International Boat Show 2021 in March.

Since its announcement, as a result of high demand, Navier developed the Pioneer Program that lets people reserve an early build slot for N27.

“The goal is to bring to get her a small group of early adopters and start building a community that is eager to push new innovations in the boating industry,” said co-founder, Sampriti Bhattacharyya.

“While we are working hard to make Navier 27 available to everyone, our build slots for 2023 are very limited. This programme is our way of prioritising our earliest supporters and enthusiasts ahead of full release to the broader market. These lighthouse customers will be looped into our early development, experience early sea trials and able to provide Navier with direct feedback.”

The Pioneer Program members will be updated throughout the build process and ensures construction remains in line with Navier’s long-term goal of clean, efficient waterborne transit. The company is working with experts from the America’s Cup and promises early customers will get a chance to see under the hood of what it takes to build “the boat of the future”.

The Navier 27 is still in the build process with an expected delivery date of 2023, but the first demo is due to be on the water for next year’s Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.

“I am quite thrilled to announce some very exceptional folks including eminent technologists and entrepreneurs who are big ocean enthusiasts are already a part of the Pioneer group to push the future of sustainable boating,” added Bhattacharyya.