solar boats

Leeuwarden, Netherlands - 40 odd-looking craft are in the process of quietly speeding their way along Dutch canals this week as the Frisian Solar Challenge is now under way. The 135 mile race pits vessels advanced and simple in a solar-powered challenge to find the best design by a test of fire. Speed limits in the canals had to be waived for the race, as some boats are capable of making over 16 knots with nothing but sunlight pushing them.

What will the pleasure boats of the future look like?