Silent and idyllic

Odense must be CO2-neutral by 2030 and Odense Aafart supports this. Over the last six months, a lot of hard work has gone into getting the tour boats ready for the start of the season, and now we can announce: Odense Aafart launches solar-powered electric boats.

Now you have the opportunity to experience nature and Odense River in a whole new way when you sail up the river next time. The trip will be more idyllic than ever. The motors in the electric boats are completely silent, which not only provides a fantastic experience for guests, but also creates a greater sense of calm for the surrounding neighbors and those who move around Odense River.

An exciting and educational process

Tour boat route map and sailing route

The Zero Emission project started back in 2019, when Odense Aafart began the process of investigating the possibilities of phasing out the use of diesel. Suppliers and prices were obtained, but it turned out to be a lot more expensive and complex than first thought.

In the spring of 2022, the project really took off when Odense Aafart was accepted into the Green Circular Transition advisory program through Destination Funen. Here they were assigned an advisor with experience as an advisor on the project of the electric ferry, Ellen. This advisory process gave Odense Aafart the necessary knowledge and insight, and in the fall of 2022, the final decision was made and the equipment was ordered.

Solar cells and self-generated power

Aafart tour boat

During the consultancy process, Odense Aafart was presented with the possibility of solar cells on the roof of the electric boats. This has not been seen before in the industry, but was a unique opportunity to not only achieve ‘Zero emission’ (boats that do not emit exhaust gas or other pollutants from the on-board power source) but also to produce approximately 90 percent of the power for the boats.

“It was a unique opportunity to take a step towards sustainability, which is why we chose to go all-in and invest not only in electric motors but also in solar cells placed on the roof of the boats,” says Eva Pasgaard Skytte, CEO of Odense Aafart.

Larger investment than expected

Tour boat route map and sailing route

The project turned out to be larger and more extensive than expected, both in terms of the size of the investment, the scope of the conversion, the approval process at the Danish Maritime Authority and not least the new solar cells. The total investment amounted to almost DKK 2 million, including consultant and approvals, which is a very large investment for the relatively small company.

Fortunately, Odense Aafart experienced great support for the green transformation of the 141-year-old heritage site and received support from the Energi Fyn Fonden, Sydbank Fonden and Albani Fonden foundations. In addition, grants have been awarded from the pools SMV:Grøn and Grøn Cirkulær Omstilling. In total, it has been possible to obtain support and funding for approximately 30% of the total investment.

Season opening at Odense Aafart

Odense Aafart boats calling at Munke Mose - experience it all with an annual pass

On April 2, the season starts for lots of experiences on Odense River. The season offers idyllic trips on the tour boats, cozy hours on the pedal boats and canoe trips for the adventurous.
There is also the opportunity to participate in a lot of events full of delicious tastings, such as rum tasting, wine tasting and beer tasting. Are you more into a little girlfriend time? Then a delicious Rosé tasting, a Cocktail Cruise or a Ladies Night could be an option.

Every year a different musician comes and gives a fantastic performance! Musik på Åen is a great opportunity to spend cozy hours on the water with loved ones, enjoying a quiet summer evening with music and drinks on board.

If you want to try out the new tour boats for yourself, you can book your ticket here.

FAQ - Solar powered electric boats at Odense Aafart

Here you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions. If you still have a question, you’re always welcome to contact us.

What are solar-powered electric boats at Odense Aafart?

Odense Aafart’s solar-powered electric boats are tour boats that run on electricity and are partially powered by solar energy. The boats are designed to make boat trips on the Odense River more sustainable and reduce emissions from sailing in Odense.

Odense Aafart’s electric boats sail on Odense River between Odense city center and Fruens Bøge. The trip goes through scenic areas along the river, where you can experience both nature and city from the water.

Solar-powered electric boats use electricity for propulsion, and solar cells on the boat help produce some of the energy. This means the boats can sail more environmentally friendly and with less noise than traditional boats.

Odense Aafart has invested in electric boats to make boat trips on Odense River more sustainable. The transition to electric boats reduces both noise and CO₂ emissions and contributes to greener tourism in Odense.

Sailing with electric boats often feels calmer because the engine is almost silent. This makes for a more relaxing experience where you can enjoy nature along the Odense River without engine noise.

Yes, Odense Aafart continues to offer boat trips on Odense River. The solar-powered electric boats make it possible to experience the same popular route in a more sustainable way.

Electric boats do not emit exhaust gases while sailing and make less noise than traditional boats. This is an advantage for nature, wildlife and the visitors who experience Odense River.

The transition to electric boats is part of a greener development in tourism in Odense. This means that visitors will be able to experience Odense River and the city from the water with less environmental impact.