News / public transport
Redshank is first UK passenger boat to go electric
A popular historic narrowboat operated by the Bristol Packet has been given a sustainable future.
The Redshank can be seen on a daily basis ferrying passengers including schoolchildren, tourists and private parties up and down the Avon and around the harbour.
The narrowboat has been in continuous service since she was built in 1936. She transported cargos including coal, timber and lime juice on the inland waterway system until the 1970s.
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Now, in the first conversion of its type in the UK, she’s been given a cleaner, greener lease of life with lithium batteries and electric motors replacing the boat’s traditional diesel system.
The Redshank as she was, in tandem with sister boat the Greenshank
“We embarked on this project to secure the future of our business, reduce our reliance on diesel and become more sustainable in the long run,” said Luke Dunstan of the Bristol Packet, which has a fleet of five boats operating from Bristol City Docks.
It’s hoped the pioneering Redshank conversion, which involved technical innovation, system design and fitting by Bristol’s marine trades experts, and 18 months of negotiations with the Maritime Coastguards Agency (MCA), will set a new bar for boat sustainability.
“We have created a blueprint to convert the rest of our fleet and the wider passenger boat industry,” said Dunstan.
“A brand new department was set up in the MCA to regulate New Technology and Innovation. They are still working to draft regulations for lithium batteries (in passenger boats).”
The narrowboat’s engine room, which now hosts the batteries and two powerful magnet motors running on 48 volts
Crews have been delighted with the boat’s performance, which has “exceeded all expectations.” The batteries enable a speed of six knots and have a running time of two days.
Equally, passengers have reported enjoying the peace of the newly quiet, vibration-free ride. The Bristol Packet will subsequently be using the Redshank to get up close to wildlife on special trips up the Avon.
The diesel-free craft will contribute to a cleaner harbour and more nature-friendly waterways.
The Redshank runs six 45 minute tours of the harbour every day, from 10.30am to 4pm. Book a trip by visiting bristolpacket.co.uk/about/redshank
All photos: Bristol Packet
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