BlueNav joins forces with Sea Loop Marine and Mercury Marine France to develop a hybrid version of the Loopia 290 catamaran, combining retractable electric propulsion, thermal power and Smart Navigation for greater autonomy, performance and onboard comfort.
Presented in March, the Loopia 290 is an electric catamaran designed by French shipbuilder Sea Loop Marine to deliver a stable, comfortable and inclusive boating experience. Featuring a hull designed by Marc Lombard Yacht Design Group, it is designed to accommodate families, including people with disabilities, and incorporates solar panels to power onboard comfort equipment.
Sea Loop Marine is now taking the next step with the Loopia 290 Hybrid, developed in collaboration with BlueNav for electric propulsion and Smart Navigation, and Mercury Marine France for thermal propulsion.
Hybrid propulsion combining autonomy and performance
The Loopia 290 Hybrid combines two 115 hp Mercury EFI engines with BlueNav’s retractable electric propulsion system. This configuration aims to expand the catamaran’s capabilities, with a projected top speed of nearly 25 knots, a cruising speed of 17 knots and a range approaching 200 nautical miles.
This complementary approach makes it possible to use each propulsion system according to the situation: thermal power for higher-speed cruising, and BlueNav electric propulsion for harbour manoeuvres, coastal trips and time spent at anchor, with quieter operation and no direct CO₂ emissions from electric propulsion.
The BlueNav system also integrates advanced Smart Navigation functions designed to simplify boat handling and improve manoeuvring precision. These include the patented Virtual Anchor, 360° Docking and Lateral Docking.
BlueNav: secondary electric propulsion for more intuitive boating
BlueNav provides a secondary retractable electric propulsion solution that complements the boat’s main engine rather than replacing it. The electric motors can be deployed when electric propulsion is needed and retracted when operating under thermal power, helping preserve the boat’s performance.
BlueNav Smart Navigation features make low-speed maneuvers easier and help maintain the boat’s position. With the patented Virtual Anchor, the boat can automatically hold a precise GPS position without deploying a physical anchor. The 360° Docking and Lateral Docking functions also help make manoeuvres more precise and intuitive.
The project envisages several ways to recharge the batteries: solar panels, shore power and, subject to technical validation, charging through the thermal engine’s alternators while underway.
This collaboration reflects a shared approach: combining the advantages of electric propulsion with the versatility of a thermal engine, while improving ease of handling and onboard comfort.
Looking ahead: the Loopia 290 Fishing
The development of the Loopia 290 Hybrid is also opening up new possibilities for Sea Loop Marine, which is working on a dedicated fishing version: the Loopia 290 Fishing.
Initial designs have been completed, and the shipbuilder plans to work with experienced sea anglers to further develop the concept. The goal is to create a boat suited to different fishing techniques, from trolling and vertical fishing to casting and big-game fishing.
The catamaran’s inherent stability, generous onboard space and BlueNav Smart Navigation functions, including Virtual Anchor and Drift Lock, offer valuable advantages for these activities. Planned equipment also includes a livewell, rod holders and a dedicated bait-preparation area.
Through this collaboration, BlueNav continues to develop intuitive navigation technologies that complement existing propulsion systems and adapt to the needs of recreational boaters and professionals alike.
