What does a conversion to electric boating cost?

The cost of converting a boat to electric propulsion depends on several factors, such as the type of boat, the desired range, the power of the electric motor and the battery pack. At E-WERF we provide tailor-made solutions, so you can be sure the installation will perfectly suit your boating needs.

 

Indicative costs for an electrical conversion

Below we provide an overview of the average cost for different boat types. You can also use our configurator to get a more detailed overview:  

 

 

Type of boat	Engine power	Battery pack	Target price
Sloop (6-8m)	4 - 10 kW	5- 20 kWh	€10.000 - €18.000
Sloop (8-10m)	10 - 15 kW	10 - 30 kWh	€15.000 - €25.000
Sailing yacht (6-12m)	6 - 15 kW	10- 40 kWh	€12.000 - €30.000
Motor boat (10-12m)	15 - 25 kW	20 - 50 kWh	€25.000 - €45.000
Tour boat	20 - 50 kW	50 - 100 kWh	€40.000 - €100.000+

 

Please note: These are indicative prices. The final cost depends on the specific installation, additional options and the type of batteries chosen.

 

For smaller power ratings, please visit our webshop. Here you will also find engines for smaller vessels.

     

What determines the price of an electrical conversion?

The cost of an electrical conversion is determined by the following factors:

1. Type and size of boat The bigger and heavier the boat, the more power and battery capacity is needed.
2. Engine power and brand choice We work with renowned brands such as Bellmarine, Vetus, Combi and WaterWorld Electronics. Choosing a specific brand and power affects the price.
3. Battery pack and range The bigger the battery, the longer you can sail.
4. Installation and customisation Some boats require modifications to the engine foundation, propeller shaft or control systems. This can affect labour costs.

 

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Would you like a tailor-made offer for your boat? Contact us without obligation or use our configurator for an indication.

Yes, you can! Most electric boats can be charged via a normal 230V socket.

How exactly does that work?

 

• A 48V 25A battery charger draws about 6A from a standard 230V socket. This means that charging at a normal shore power connection or house socket is not a problem, as long as a safe and suitable battery charger is used.
• There are also adjustable chargers available, which allow you to adjust the load capacity. This is useful when power supply is limited, for example on a scaffold with a shared connection.

What should you pay attention to?

  ✔ Safe connection - Make sure the socket and cables are in good condition to prevent overheating. ✔ Optional fast charging - For larger battery packs, a Power connection (e.g. 16A or 32A 3-phase) a faster option. In short, charging at an ordinary socket is possible and safe, as long as the installation is good and the charging current is within the capacity of the connection.

More and more marinas and moorings in the Netherlands offer charging infrastructure for electric boats. In Amsterdam, you can charge at several locations, such as at Marina Westpoort, Amsterdam Marina, and the Sixhaven. There are also charging points at some public jetties, such as in the canals and at popular boating routes. Most marinas have shore power connections suitable for slow charging. For fast charging, there are special charging points, but these are not yet available everywhere. Check the marina's facilities in advance or use platforms such as Watts Up or PlugShare to find charging locations. On 6 February 2025, the Amsterdam municipality announced that the emission-free zone for pleasure boats would be established from 01-04-2025. In doing so, it also promised to add up to 2,500 charging points in the city by 2030.   You can find the latest overview on the City of Amsterdam's site.    Besides commercial and public charging spots, we also see other great initiatives coming along. We are happy to think about these with you.

Electric drive systems are low-maintenance, but not maintenance-free. To ensure long-term, trouble-free operation, periodic maintenance and control essential.

What needs to be checked?

  1️⃣ Check system and connections - Vibration and changing temperatures can loosen bolts and electrical connections over time. Regular checking and tightening of connections prevents failures. 2️⃣ Moisture prevention - Electronics and moisture do not mix well. An annual check for moisture and corrosion in battery housings, motor compartments and connections prevents damage and unexpected failures. 3️⃣ Tightening torques of bolts and connections - Electric motors and battery fixings must remain firmly in place. Correctly checking the tightening torque of bolts prevents loose parts and wear. 4️⃣ Control of anodes - Protection against electrolytic corrosion is also important for an electric drive. Anodes protect the engine, propeller shaft and other metal parts underwater and should be checked periodically and replaced if necessary. 5️⃣ Software updates and monitoring - Some systems work with BMS (Battery Management Systems) or other digital components that benefit from software updates and periodic diagnostics.  

How often is maintenance required?

  We recommend at least once a year to be checked. In heavy use or in demanding conditions (such as salt water or commercial use), the half-yearly maintenance be wise. Want to keep sailing worry-free? We offer maintenance and servicing To keep your electrical installation in top condition!

Yes, but with limitations. LiFePO4 batteries are more resistant to cold than many other lithium batteries, but extreme temperatures can affect performance.  

How does cold affect LiFePO4 batteries?

  1️⃣ Capacity loss at low temperatures - At temperatures below 0°C Can the available capacity take down, resulting in shorter sailing times. The battery still works, but less efficiently. 2️⃣ Charging at sub-zero temperatures - Below 0°C can LiFePO4 batteries get damaged when they are charged. This is because lithium-ion cells have a harder time moving ions at low temperatures, which can lead to internal damage. Our LiFePO4 batteries have a built-in BMS (Battery Management System) that prevents charging at too low temperatures. 3️⃣ Self-discharge - With prolonged exposure to cold, the battery can slowly discharged. This is not an immediate problem, but if the battery is left in the cold for a long time, it is wise to charge it regularly.  

How do you protect a LiFePO4 battery from cold?

  ✅ Insulated battery housing - Batteries in enclosed, E-WERF always tries to place batteries in insulated areas helps reduce temperature changes. ✅ Storing batteries indoors in winter - During prolonged periods of frost, it may be wise to store batteries indoors. ✅ Heated batteries - Some LiFePO4 batteries have a built-in heating systemwhich enables charging at low temperatures. As a rule, we do not make use of this, but it is possible if required. This can be particularly attractive for sailing yachts that also sail in colder climates.

Conclusion

  LiFePO4 batteries function fine at low temperatures, but at extreme cold (below 0°C) caution is required, especially when charging. With proper protection and possibly heating, they can be used without any problems, even in cold conditions.

The sailing time of an electric boat depends on several factors, such as the size of the battery pack, the speed at which you sail, and drive efficiency.  

1. Battery pack - The larger the battery capacity (expressed in kWh), the longer you can cruise. A small battery pack can last a few hours, while larger systems offer a whole day of boating. Charging technology also plays a role; lithium batteries charge faster and have a higher energy density than lead batteries.
2. Speed - The faster you cruise, the more energy you consume. In Amsterdam, the speed limit is around 6 km/h, which favours sailing time. The cruising speed - the most efficient speed at which you consume minimal energy - determines how long you can actually sail. At higher speeds, resistance increases exponentially, causing power consumption to rise rapidly.
3. Resistance and conditions - Current, wind and the type of boat also play a role. A light sloop consumes less energy than a heavy steel boat. Hull shape and choice of propeller also influence efficiency.
4. Loading and use - The heavier the boat is loaded, the more energy is needed to sail. This also applies to extra systems on board, such as lights, refrigerators or navigation equipment, which increase battery consumption.
5. Temperature and battery performance - Cold can affect the performance of batteries, which can temporarily reduce capacity in winter conditions. Therefore, a good battery management system is important to ensure optimal performance.

  We can calculate the expected sailing time precise calculation with a handy tool so you know exactly how long you can cruise with your electric drive!

Yes, we also convert canal boats to electric propulsion. For boats with more than 12 people However, this involves more than just installation. We supervise the complete certification process and ensure that the conversion meets the requirements of ES-Trin 2025.

What is ES-Trin 2025 and why is it important?

  ES-Trin (European Standard for Inland Navigation Vessels) is the European regulation for the certification of commercial vessels, including canal boats. From 2025 requirements for electric and hybrid propulsion will be further tightened, requiring ships to meet stricter standards on safety, battery management and emission reduction.

What does an electrically powered tour boat need to meet?

Bij een ombouw naar elektrisch moeten we rekening houden met een aantal belangrijke ES-Trin eisen, waaronder: 🔹 Battery management and safety - The installation must comply with high safety standards, such as fireproof battery enclosures, an intelligent Battery Management System (BMS) en noodstopsystemen. 🔹 Cooling and ventilation - Sufficient cooling or ventilation van accupakketten en motoren is verplicht om oververhitting te voorkomen, vooral bij grotere vermogens. 🔹 Electrical systems and insulation - All electrical components must waterproof and insulated zijn volgens ES-Trin normen om storingen en kortsluiting te voorkomen. 🔹 Weight and stability - Electric drive often brings extra weight met zich mee. Dit moet correct worden verdeeld om te voldoen aan stabiliteits- en diepgangseisen. 🔹 Emergency procedures and inspections - Additional inspections and emergency procedures required, including evacuation plans and system redundancy for additional security.

How do we help with certification?

We not only ensure safe and efficient conversion, but also offer: ✔ Construction and technical drawings compliant with ES-Trin 2025. ✔ Advice and guidance in the certification process. ✔ Installation according to the latest requirements, so that your ship is approved without any problems. Would you like to make your tour boat electric and have it certified ES-Trin 2025 proof? Contact us and we will guide you through the whole process!

The duration of a conversion to electric drive depends on several factors, but on average a conversion takes approximately one week. For hybrid systems, this tends to be slightly longer.  

1. Size of the installation - The larger the battery pack and motor power, the more time is needed for installation and tuning.
2. Customisation per boat - Some boats require specific modifications, such as a new engine foundation, battery housing or modified wiring. This may take extra time.
3. Standard vs. special boats - For standard sloops and boats with a common layout, conversion can be completed within a week. Special boats, such as classic wooden boats or those with complex systems, often require more time.
4. Air- or liquid-cooled engines - A air-cooled engine is easier and faster to install, while a liquid-cooled engine requires additional components such as a cooling circuit, which can increase installation time.

  Want to know exactly how long the conversion of your boat will take? Get in touch for a customised estimate!

Converting a boat from diesel to electric is a costly investment, mainly because of three factors:  

1. Expensive battery packs - The biggest cost in an electric drive is the batteries. High-quality, long-lasting lithium batteries with enough capacity to give a boat a long cruising time are expensive. These batteries must be reliable, powerful and safe, which contributes to the high price.
2. Customisation for every boat - No two boats are the same, making each conversion a unique journey. Installing engines, batteries and associated systems requires a careful approach, taking into account weight distribution, use of space and balance of the boat. This customisation requires time and craftsmanship.
3. High standards and norms - To ensure years of trouble-free operation, high standards are set for safety, watertightness and performance. This means working with high-quality components, certified installation methods and strict quality controls.

  This careful approach allows an electric-powered boat to run for years without any problems and with minimal maintenance costs. Converting a diesel boat to electric propulsion is a hefty investment, mainly due to the high cost of batteries and the customisation required. Lithium batteries, which ensure sufficient sailing time and reliability, are expensive but essential for a trouble-free installation. In addition customisation necessary, as every boat is different. The placement of motors and batteries must be carefully matched to space and weight distribution. This requires a lot of time and craftsmanship. To ensure a long service life and trouble-free use, the high quality standards adhered to. This means that only the best materials and certified installation methods are used. This careful approach keeps an electrically powered boat running reliably and low-maintenance for years.

As a rule, we can make a conversion within a few weeks of agreeing to the offer start. Our schedule is flexible, so we can almost always find a place that fits your schedule. We do depend on the suppliers of electric motors:

• Vetus and Waterworld usually have a short delivery time, allowing for a quick conversion.
• Bellmarine and Combi may have a slightly longer delivery time, depending on the type of engine.

  Want to convert quickly? Contact us and we'll look at the possibilities straight away and schedule a suitable date!

What does a conversion to electric boating cost?

The cost of converting a boat to electric propulsion depends on several factors, such as the type of boat, the desired range, the power of the electric motor and the battery pack. At E-WERF we provide tailor-made solutions, so you can be sure the installation will perfectly suit your boating needs.

 

Indicative costs for an electrical conversion

Below we provide an overview of the average cost for different boat types. You can also use our configurator to get a more detailed overview:  

 

 

Type of boat	Engine power	Battery pack	Target price
Sloop (6-8m)	4 - 10 kW	5- 20 kWh	€10.000 - €18.000
Sloop (8-10m)	10 - 15 kW	10 - 30 kWh	€15.000 - €25.000
Sailing yacht (6-12m)	6 - 15 kW	10- 40 kWh	€12.000 - €30.000
Motor boat (10-12m)	15 - 25 kW	20 - 50 kWh	€25.000 - €45.000
Tour boat	20 - 50 kW	50 - 100 kWh	€40.000 - €100.000+

 

Please note: These are indicative prices. The final cost depends on the specific installation, additional options and the type of batteries chosen.

 

For smaller power ratings, please visit our webshop. Here you will also find engines for smaller vessels.

     

What determines the price of an electrical conversion?

The cost of an electrical conversion is determined by the following factors:

1. Type and size of boat The bigger and heavier the boat, the more power and battery capacity is needed.
2. Engine power and brand choice We work with renowned brands such as Bellmarine, Vetus, Combi and WaterWorld Electronics. Choosing a specific brand and power affects the price.
3. Battery pack and range The bigger the battery, the longer you can sail.
4. Installation and customisation Some boats require modifications to the engine foundation, propeller shaft or control systems. This can affect labour costs.

 

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Would you like a tailor-made offer for your boat? Contact us without obligation or use our configurator for an indication.

The electric motors of Vetus, Bellmarine and Combi differ in several areas, including technology, application and delivery options. Below is an overview of where they differ:

 

1. Vetus - Reliable entry option with short delivery time

• Features: Vetus offers user-friendly and affordable electric motors, often as comprehensive systems with motor, controller and control panel.
• Application: Suitable for pleasure cruise and boats up to medium size.
• Cooling: Air-cooled and liquid-cooled.
• Delivery time: Short, allowing quick installation.
• Unique in: Easy to install, relatively inexpensive and good service from a wide dealer network.

 

2. Bellmarine - High quality with focus on efficiency

• Features: Bellmarine is known for high quality, sustainability and advanced control technology. The engines often have a high return, making them energy efficient.
• Application: Suitable for both pleasure cruise as professional use (such as ferry services and work boats).
• Cooling: Often liquid-cooled, which ensures better heat dissipation and longer life.
• Delivery time: Slightly longer, depending on the model and specifications.
• Unique in: Powerful, efficient systems with a long service life and less heat generation.

 

3. Combi - Flexible systems with modular construction

• Features: Combi motors offer many customisation options and are often modular structure, allowing them to be well adapted to specific applications.
• Application: Suitable for heavier and professional applications, such as ships with greater energy consumption.
• Cooling: Both air-cooled as liquid-cooled, depending on the specifications chosen.
• Delivery time: Depending on engine configuration, usually longer than Vetus.
• Unique in: Modular construction, suitable for heavy-duty and specialist applications.

 

Which engine suits your boat?

  Choosing the right electric motor depends on the type of boat, its use and the desired performance. Vetus is an excellent choice for quick and easy conversion, Bellmarine offers high efficiency and reliability, and Combi is ideal for customised, high-performance installations. Want advice on which engine is best for your boat? Get in touch with us!

At first glance, our prices sometimes seem higher than those of other providers, but in reality this is often not the case. This is because we transparent be about the costs and from the beginning a realistic assessment give. Many providers lure customers with a low base price, but later charge extra for customisation, installation problems or unforeseen modifications. With us, no surprises afterwards: ✔ Experience and expertise - We know exactly what a conversion entails and where the potential challenges lie. ✔ Clear cost estimate - We give an honest and complete price estimate in advance, including installation and necessary adjustments. ✔ Sustainable installation - We work to high quality standards so that your installation will function smoothly for years. Ultimately, you save money and hassle, because you know immediately where you stand and are not faced with unexpected costs afterwards.

Yes, absolutely! Even if your boat is already electric but you are experiencing problems with the installation, you can come to us for advice, maintenance and repairs. We have extensive experience with various electric drive systems and can help with: ✔ Faults and error messages - Diagnosis and troubleshooting of engines, battery packs and control systems. ✔ Plant optimisation - More efficient use of batteries and motors to increase sailing time. ✔ Replacement or upgrade of components - Such as battery packs, motor controllers and charging solutions. ✔ Software updates and system calibration - To prevent failures and improve performance. Whether it is a minor malfunction or a complete overhaul, we are ready to get your electric boat back reliable and fault-free make. Contact us for a diagnosis!

Converting a boat from diesel to electric is a costly investment, mainly because of three factors:  

1. Expensive battery packs - The biggest cost in an electric drive is the batteries. High-quality, long-lasting lithium batteries with enough capacity to give a boat a long cruising time are expensive. These batteries must be reliable, powerful and safe, which contributes to the high price.
2. Customisation for every boat - No two boats are the same, making each conversion a unique journey. Installing engines, batteries and associated systems requires a careful approach, taking into account weight distribution, use of space and balance of the boat. This customisation requires time and craftsmanship.
3. High standards and norms - To ensure years of trouble-free operation, high standards are set for safety, watertightness and performance. This means working with high-quality components, certified installation methods and strict quality controls.

  This careful approach allows an electric-powered boat to run for years without any problems and with minimal maintenance costs. Converting a diesel boat to electric propulsion is a hefty investment, mainly due to the high cost of batteries and the customisation required. Lithium batteries, which ensure sufficient sailing time and reliability, are expensive but essential for a trouble-free installation. In addition customisation necessary, as every boat is different. The placement of motors and batteries must be carefully matched to space and weight distribution. This requires a lot of time and craftsmanship. To ensure a long service life and trouble-free use, the high quality standards adhered to. This means that only the best materials and certified installation methods are used. This careful approach keeps an electrically powered boat running reliably and low-maintenance for years.