In a groundbreaking leap for sustainable travel, Lucietta, a fully electric Venetian water taxi, is redefining marine tourism in one of the world’s most iconic cities. This innovative vessel embodies a seamless blend of traditional Venetian charm with cutting-edge eco-friendly technology, marking a pivotal moment for environmentally conscious exploration of Venice’s historic canals.
Venice, globally celebrated for its intricate network of canals, gondolas, and classic water taxis, now embraces a new era of transportation with Lucietta. Moving beyond conventional petrol-powered alternatives, this modern electric water taxi offers both residents and visitors a remarkably cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable method to navigate the city’s famed waterways, significantly reducing its environmental footprint.
The creation of Lucietta is a testament to sophisticated design and collaborative expertise. Visionary marine design studio Nauta Design partnered with the esteemed Italian shipyard Cantiere Serenella and Swiss energy innovator Repower. Together, they meticulously crafted a vessel that not only respects Venice’s rich maritime heritage but also champions sustainability through its advanced electric propulsion system, setting a new benchmark for eco-friendly marine transport.
Designed with Venice’s unique infrastructure in mind, Lucietta’s dimensions are perfectly tailored for the city’s narrow canals. Measuring 9.3 meters in length, 2.25 meters in width, and 2.1 meters in height, it adeptly fits within the spatial constraints imposed by historical buildings and bridges. Despite these practical limitations, the Lucietta maintains a sleek, modern aesthetic that reflects its advanced technological core, making it a prominent example of marine innovation.
Central to Lucietta’s efficiency is its powerful electric propulsion system, featuring a 200 kW motor paired with a robust 180 kWh battery pack. This enables the water taxi to achieve a top speed of 30 knots, with comfortable cruising speeds ranging between 7 and 10.8 knots, ideal for leisurely journeys across the Venetian lagoon. Operating at lower speeds, the vessel can sustain an entire working day without requiring a recharge, offering an optimal zero emission transport solution for extended tours.
Beyond its operational efficiency, Lucietta significantly contributes to environmental preservation. Its electric operation drastically reduces noise pollution, ensuring a more serene experience on the canals, while completely eliminating harmful emissions. This strategic shift towards electrification is a critical step in safeguarding Venice’s delicate ecosystem and ensuring the long-term viability of its vital tourism industry, positioning it at the forefront of sustainable public transport Venice.
Passenger comfort and convenience were paramount in Lucietta’s design, accommodating up to 14 passengers with diverse seating options. A shaded midsection provides a cool retreat, while the exposed stern invites passengers to enjoy the Venetian sun. The forward-seated ‘driver’ ensures optimal visibility and smooth maneuvering, enhancing the overall journey. Amenities include USB charging ports, a high-quality audio system, a 42-liter fridge, and underwater aft lighting, all complemented by a luxurious synthetic teak deck and a durable carbon fiber hull.
Lucietta’s debut at prestigious events such as the Salone Nautico di Venezia and the Venice International Film Festival underscored its elegance and potential to shape the future of sustainable travel Italy. Although currently in its prototype phase with no official production plans announced, this collaboration has undeniably demonstrated the compelling feasibility and exciting prospects of electric water taxis for Venetian transport.
The introduction of the Lucietta electric water taxi heralds a transformative chapter for Venice, seamlessly blending innovation, sustainability, and tradition. By offering a cleaner, quieter, and eco-friendlier alternative for navigating the city’s iconic waterways, it profoundly enhances the tourism experience while actively contributing to the preservation of its environment for future generations. This vessel stands as a powerful symbol of how historical cities can evolve sustainably while honoring their unique heritage, driving eco-tourism Venice.
