Frauscher 909 Benaco
Unlike the automotive industry, it wasn’t until recently that the boating industry made the shift toward integrating hybrid engines into the market. Last May, Frauscher Boats of Gmunden, Austria, introduced the first hybrid boat to the U.S., instigating a green revolution on water similar to that spurred by the Toyota Prius on land. The $185,000 757 St. Tropez (named for the boat’s length in centimeters) pulled silently out of San Francisco’s St. Francis Yacht Club, powered by the engine’s zero-emission electric drive mode, which allows for five knots of speed. Once beyond the harbor walls, a simple turn of the key initiated the diesel-powered engine, unleashing the boat’s wave-cutting 250 hp muscle as it cruised past the shadows of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Engelbert Frauscher founded the company more than 80 years ago, and today his grandson Michael has partnered with his Austrian neighbors at Steyr Motors in order to spark an eco-friendly boating mentality. In June, Frauscher will introduce its 909 Benaco, which will be equipped with two engines that propel it to speeds beyond 40 knots, and both electric and cruising drive modes. Available in the U.S. through California Chris Craft, the $450,000 Benaco promises to drive with the brain of a Prius and the brawn and beauty of a Bentley.

Frauscher Boats, www.frauscherboats.com
California Chris Craft, www.cachriscraft.com

SolidNav Engine
Long Beach, Calif., engine producer SolidNav offers another seafaring option for the environmentally minded. Last year the company launched two battery-powered, zero-emission engines. The Explorer ($4,995)—with a 4-kilowatt spar less drive—presents an inboard solution for sailing boats under 33 feet, while the outboard Traveler ($2,499; pictured)—weighing in at less than 60 pounds—is ideal for smaller craft or pontoons. This summer SolidNav will launch its 8-kilowatt inboard Voyager ($6,995) for vessels in the 34- to 44-foot range.

SolidNav, www.solidnav.com