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Coastal Workboats are proud to be delivering the UK’s first fully-electric workboat - the E-LUV (Electric-Landing Utility Vessel). Built on our renowned LUV format to a Damen design, the E-LUV spells the start of a new age in our maritime industry. As a first in class, the design, build and delivery of the vessel presents a complex new workflow compared to that of a conventional build. 
We’ll use this page to share the story of the project, including offering build updates and technical explanations. You can also use this page to get in touch to chat about how the E-LUV could impact and improve your own business.

Introducing the E-LUV

Introducing the E-LUV

Project Overview | E-LUV

The E-LUV is the first all-electric workboat built and operating in the UK. The ambitious project is made possible via UK Government funding which aims to transform our industry by enabling green innovation, securing a sustainable future for UK maritime.
The initial E-LUV prototype is set apart by the onward solution it presents future commercial workboat applications. Most workboats are deployed in areas with low or no grid power to support recharging of e-vessels. The new E-LUV addresses this via its accompanying shore power storage system (SPSS) which can be used to recharge the vessel, power other applications and, with its innovative rapid-charging capability, significantly reduce vessel turnaround. The power unit can also be carried on the E-LUV’s deck, significantly extending the vessel’s working range and enabling underway charging.

Under the Hood | E-LUV

We’re getting into the nitty-gritty of why the E-LUV is such a special project that marks a watershed moment in our industry’s pursuit of Net Zero.
Follow along as we unpack various capabilities and technical specifications of the vessel.

  • What if we told you the UK’s first fully-electric, zero-emissions commercial workboat is already built - and ready to work?
    Meet the E-LUV 2208 - we've called her 'Vital Spark' (any Para Handy fans out there?). Designed and built by Coastal Workboats and Damen , funded through UK SHORE and delivered by Innovate UK under CMDC3, this is more than a prototype - it’s a real, rugged vessel built for real operations.
    On this page, we’re lifting the lid on what makes the E-LUV revolutionary - from next-gen battery systems to zero-noise propulsion, and everything in between. Read on to find out more.

  • What if we told you the UK’s first fully-electric, zero-emissions commercial workboat is already built - and ready to work?
    Meet the E-LUV 2208 - we've called her 'Vital Spark' (any Para Handy fans out there?). Designed and built by Coastal Workboats and Damen , funded through UK SHORE and delivered by Innovate UK under CMDC3, this is more than a prototype - it’s a real, rugged vessel built for real operations.
    On this page, we’re lifting the lid on what makes the E-LUV revolutionary - from next-gen battery systems to zero-noise propulsion, and everything in between. Read on to find out more.

  • What is the E-LUV? Let’s talk spec.
    The E-LUV 2208 is a 22m commercial landing utility vessel with serious credentials: built on Damen Shipyards’ proven design (a bunch of diesel-powered CW sister ships are already active in UK waters every day) with a 2,400kWh battery system from EST-Floattech, Bureau Veritas Group Class and Maritime and Coastguard Agency Code 2 certification, a 40-tonne bow ramp, and Hs Marine AK40 crane not to mention LOADS more (more on this in the coming weeks) - all built on Damen’s rugged hull design with a 15mm bottom plate for serious durability.
    But what really elevates the E-LUV is the SPSS — our Shore Power Storage System. This containerised 1,200kWh unit supports fast charging, trickle charging, and even range extension — giving operators the flexibility to deploy the E-LUV in challenging or infrastructure-light locations.
    It’s not just a battery — it’s the system that makes electric operations more viable, more scalable, and far more interesting.

  • What is the E-LUV? Let’s talk spec.
    The E-LUV 2208 is a 22m commercial landing utility vessel with serious credentials: built on Damen Shipyards’ proven design (a bunch of diesel-powered CW sister ships are already active in UK waters every day) with a 2,400kWh battery system from EST-Floattech, Bureau Veritas Group Class and Maritime and Coastguard Agency Code 2 certification, a 40-tonne bow ramp, and Hs Marine AK40 crane not to mention LOADS more (more on this in the coming weeks) - all built on Damen’s rugged hull design with a 15mm bottom plate for serious durability.
    But what really elevates the E-LUV is the SPSS — our Shore Power Storage System. This containerised 1,200kWh unit supports fast charging, trickle charging, and even range extension — giving operators the flexibility to deploy the E-LUV in challenging or infrastructure-light locations.
    It’s not just a battery — it’s the system that makes electric operations more viable, more scalable, and far more interesting.

  • Batteries are only half the story - integration is everything. That’s where our MJR Power & Automation designed systems come in. As marine electrical specialists, they’ve wired the E-LUV’s entire energy system from thrusters to control panels, turning battery power into precision performance. Their integration ensures seamless communication between the propulsion system, deck machinery, and onboard energy management — all built for reliability, safety, and responsiveness. The result? - an all-electric, zero emissions vessel with smooth torque, agile handling - and not a drop of diesel required.

    The team at MJR said:

    ‘MJR Power & Automation are proud to play a key role for Coastal Workboats’ groundbreaking project by delivering the complete power, propulsion and power management integration for the E-LUV 2208. We are especially pleased to be supporting a UK company breaking down barriers in delivering to the market a fully electric vessel that will accelerate the demand for commercially available zero emission workboats. This project was a fantastic collaboration, with Coastal Workboats leveraging our expertise to deliver a high-performance vessel designed for the demanding marine environment, while advancing our shared commitment to decarbonising the UK maritime sector.’

    Thanks to MJR, the E-LUV isn’t just clean — it’s smart, scalable, and built to thrive in tough marine environments without compromise.

  • The E-LUV is powered by EST-Floattech’s Octopus High Energy battery system, delivering clean and quiet high-performance. With 2,400kWh onboard and 1,200kWh via the SPSS infrastructure companion, it recharges fast and runs hard. This marine-grade solution cuts fuel, noise, and emissions while ensuring top-tier safety and efficiency.
    EST-Floattech’s Jelle Meindertsma said:

    ‘We are impressed by how the UK Government is driving decarbonisation of the UK's maritime sector. This project is a fantastic example of innovation. In particular, the combination of a fully electric workboat together with the SPSS provides unseen flexibility alongside heavy-duty capabilities. It is very pleasant to work with Coastal Workboats, with a joint commitment to assemble and install the battery system professionally and safely. We LUV the end-result!'
    - Jelle Meindertsma, Sales Manager

    EST-Floattech’s technology is certified by DNV, BV, LR and RINA, and helps position the E-LUV as a global benchmark for electric workboats. No smoke, no fumes - just energy that works.

  • The E-LUV is powered by EST-Floattech’s Octopus High Energy battery system, delivering clean and quiet high-performance. With 2,400kWh onboard and 1,200kWh via the SPSS infrastructure companion, it recharges fast and runs hard. This marine-grade solution cuts fuel, noise, and emissions while ensuring top-tier safety and efficiency.
    EST-Floattech’s Jelle Meindertsma said:

    ‘We are impressed by how the UK Government is driving decarbonisation of the UK's maritime sector. This project is a fantastic example of innovation. In particular, the combination of a fully electric workboat together with the SPSS provides unseen flexibility alongside heavy-duty capabilities. It is very pleasant to work with Coastal Workboats, with a joint commitment to assemble and install the battery system professionally and safely. We LUV the end-result!'
    - Jelle Meindertsma, Sales Manager

    EST-Floattech’s technology is certified by DNV, BV, LR and RINA, and helps position the E-LUV as a global benchmark for electric workboats. No smoke, no fumes - just energy that works.

  • Batteries are only half the story - integration is everything. That’s where our MJR Power & Automation designed systems come in. As marine electrical specialists, they’ve wired the E-LUV’s entire energy system from thrusters to control panels, turning battery power into precision performance. Their integration ensures seamless communication between the propulsion system, deck machinery, and onboard energy management — all built for reliability, safety, and responsiveness. The result? - an all-electric, zero emissions vessel with smooth torque, agile handling - and not a drop of diesel required.

    The team at MJR said:

    ‘MJR Power & Automation are proud to play a key role for Coastal Workboats’ groundbreaking project by delivering the complete power, propulsion and power management integration for the E-LUV 2208. We are especially pleased to be supporting a UK company breaking down barriers in delivering to the market a fully electric vessel that will accelerate the demand for commercially available zero emission workboats. This project was a fantastic collaboration, with Coastal Workboats leveraging our expertise to deliver a high-performance vessel designed for the demanding marine environment, while advancing our shared commitment to decarbonising the UK maritime sector.’

    Thanks to MJR, the E-LUV isn’t just clean — it’s smart, scalable, and built to thrive in tough marine environments without compromise.

  • The E-LUV’s agility comes from its top-mounted Hydromaster Azimuth thrusters — a smart, service-friendly solution that keeps the vessel working, not waiting in dry dock. This design allows maintenance to happen while afloat, cutting downtime and operational costs. With 360° thrust and high torque at low speeds, Hydromaster’s units give the E-LUV exceptional manoeuvrability, even in heavy seas or tight aquaculture sites. Built for performance and durability yet with a compact build thanks to the use of Permanent Magnet motors, these thrusters are a perfect match for the E-LUV’s zero-emissions mission. It’s a partnership that proves sustainable workboats can be powerful, practical, and purpose-built for the toughest marine environments.

  • The E-LUV’s agility comes from its top-mounted Hydromaster Azimuth thrusters — a smart, service-friendly solution that keeps the vessel working, not waiting in dry dock. This design allows maintenance to happen while afloat, cutting downtime and operational costs. With 360° thrust and high torque at low speeds, Hydromaster’s units give the E-LUV exceptional manoeuvrability, even in heavy seas or tight aquaculture sites. Built for performance and durability yet with a compact build thanks to the use of Permanent Magnet motors, these thrusters are a perfect match for the E-LUV’s zero-emissions mission. It’s a partnership that proves sustainable workboats can be powerful, practical, and purpose-built for the toughest marine environments.

The E-LUV is a highly capable vessel, built to withstand the toughest marine environments found in our harsh waters. Coastal Workboats enjoys a client list ranging from those working in ferry applications, aquaculture, logistics and goods. Whilst innovative, the E-LUV is built on flexibility and versatility, with a variety of custom fit-out and finishing packages. Get in touch today to discuss where the E-LUV might take you and your business.

The E-LUV & You

Under the Hood | E-LUV

The E-LUV is an innovative vessel, designed with a range of features that make it particularly suited for the future of our industry:

  • 2400kWh installed battery capacity

  • The SPSS (Shore Power Storage System) has 1200kWh capacity and can act as a range extender to increase the range of the E-LUV by 50%.

  • Predicted range is 100miles in good conditions, allowing for three round trips to Papa Stour if an emergency required this. This is increased to 150miles if relocating the vessel by placing the SPSS on the vessel.

  • The EST Floattech Octopus battery system uses a modular approach with multiple strings, and in the unlikely event of a module failure would reduce the energy available by only 5%. This would have no direct effect on passengers or crew as a failure is tested and proven to be restricted to one cell only, with the small amount of off-gas being vented well clear of the vessel by a vent.

  • The use of Hydromaster azimuthing pod-drives provides for improved manoeuvrability and increased bollard pull over a conventional diesel shaft drive vessel, while permitting a lower installed power – the perfect base for hybrid vessel development in the future.

  • The propulsion units and vessel systems are designed with double redundancy in mind, so that a single failure won’t prevent the vessel from returning to port under her own power.

  • The forward ramp and folding aft bulwark permit RoRo operation on to and from slip.

  • Charging is designed to take place in 30mins, to replace the energy used in a round trip to Papa Stour.

  • The LUV’s are rugged vessels, designed to take the bottom, minimising the need for dry docks and allowing operational flexibility in tidally restricted areas.

  • A variable speed hydraulic power unit system will reduce the energy required to operate deck equipment.

  • The E-LUV is ready to charge from high power grid connections as these become available in the future.

  • The E-LUV will have remote monitoring via Starlink to enable support wherever the vessel is operating.

The E-LUV is built in collaboration with our Dutch design partner Damen Shipyards. Having delivered LUV2208s for Damen in the UK previously, their format offered the perfect framework from which to grow the E-LUV.

Design Partner | Damen

The E-LUV is part of the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition Round 3 (CMDC3), which was announced in September 2022, funded by the Department for Transport and delivered in partnership with Innovate UK. As part of the CMDC3, the Department allocated £60m to 19 flagship projects supported by 92 UK organisations to deliver real world demonstration R&D projects in clean maritime solutions. Projects will take place in multiple locations around the UK from as far north as the Shetland Isles and as far south as Cornwall.
The CMDC3 is part of the UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emission’s (UK SHORE) flagship multi-year CMDC programme. In March 2022, the Department announced the biggest government investment ever in our UK commercial maritime sector, allocating £206m to UK SHORE, a new division within the Department for Transport focused on decarbonising the maritime sector. UK SHORE is delivering a suite of interventions throughout 2022-2025 aimed at accelerating the design, manufacture and operation of UK-made clean maritime technologies and unlocking an industry-led transition to Net Zero.

Funding | CMDC3