The Vita LION was featured in the latest edition of BOAT International in an article by Same Fortescue on the “Electric Tender Revolution”.

After launching in 2017, Vita Power set about designing a series of electric concept boats, which proved hugely successful in the Yacht Club de Monaco’s Energy Boat Challenge.

The new 10.5-metre LION is the first production dayboat incorporating many lessons learned over four years. “Built in carbon, the fit-out of the boat is neat,” says Montigneaux, who tested the boat first-hand. “We see here the experience of the superyacht builder. Her layout is very classic, with large sunpads aft followed by a cockpit with seven seats to cruise comfortably.”

The cockpit converts into a U-shaped dining area, and a little cabin forward offers a double bed and a dayhead. “I especially liked the beautiful work done to link the deck and bathing platform,” he says. “Linked to this pure design, the use of white throughout reinforces the feeling that they are pollution-free.” All the control systems have been developed by Vita and are managed through two large touchscreen displays at the helm.

“Linked to this pure design, the use of white throughout reinforces the feeling that they are pollution-free”

Sam Fortescue, BOAT International

And the feel of the boat? Well, it was rather different. “We left the port of Saint-Tropez in complete silence. At the beginning, it gives the feeling that something is missing. But after a few minutes you start to really enjoy it.” Montigneaux never reached the boat’s top speed of 35 knots because of restrictions in the bay, but the Lion quickly settled into its cruising stride of 22 knots.

Despite the confused, choppy seas that often prevail here, the ride was dry and comfortable. This is not a lightweight boat, packing an industry-leading 233kWh of battery power – this alone amounts to well over a tonne. But it gives the boat 90 minutes of operation at 22 knots, and Vita CEO Rory Trahair says that the boat recharges in less than an hour using Aqua superPower’s new fast-charging stations.