In Hushed Tones
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Hinckley has often been an early adopter of new technology, using fiberglass before most builders thought it prudent, or a pioneer of its own tech, such as waterjet propulsion and joystick operation. So it’s not a surprise that Hinckley has developed an all-electric yacht — though at 28 feet, 6 inches long and 8 feet, 7 inches across the beam, it’s a trailerable yacht.
Introduced last fall and set to be available to consumers this year, Dasher is the builder’s latest technological early entry. Powered by twin 80 hp electric motors that are driven by BMW I3 lithium-ion batteries, the boat is quiet and pollution-free. Dual plugs allow Dasher to be connected to two 50-amp charging cables, so it can reach a full charge in less than four hours. And even though it’s the smallest boat in the Hinckley stable, it retains the look of its larger predecessors, and its carbon-epoxy composite hull means it’s light and strong.
Intended as a dayboat, Dasher’s transom is open. An aft console is the base for an aft-facing bench seat and a forward-facing bench that acts as the helm seat. Forward of the helm console is another bench seat, and a U-shaped settee occupies the bow. That’s plenty of seating for about a dozen folks on a harbor cruise. A silent harbor cruise, though we can’t control one’s company.
Dasher’s approximate range at a 10 mph cruising speed is 40 miles. That range is cut to 20 to 25 miles at a faster cruise of 18 to 27 mph. Like all Hinckley models, Dasher is a jetboat, so its draft is a mere 23 inches.
Priced just north of $500K, Dasher isn’t going to fit into every boating budget, but even though it’s small, it’s still a Hinckley.
Hinckley Yachts, hinckleyyachts.com
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