Wave-powered boat makes it from Japan to Hawaii
Back in February we talked about the Suntory Mermaid II -- a boat that encapsulates a pretty “duh” idea of powering a boat with waves.
Well, creator Ken-ichi Horie and the boat have completed his goal journey of getting from Japan to Hawaii -- a distance of 4,350 miles. It took nearly four months, going an average of 1.5 knots, but he made it. And he set an 'I Did It First' record in the process.
The Suntory Mermaid II uses the most advanced wave-power technology, with extra electricity coming from solar panels to run navigation lights. Since it is the most advanced, by virtue of being the only, it’s a great starting point for future wave-powered boats that go -- I should hope -- a little faster. Horie says the problem to be solved is how to keep the boat's speed up when the waves are weak.
Maybe one day we’ll see a race between the Suntory Mermaid II and the Earthrace … and maybe an old-fashioned, wind-powered sailboat thrown in for good measure.
Via EnvironmentalGraffiti, YachtPals, Physorg
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