Ra (boat)
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| File:Ra Broads Authority.jpg | |
| History | |
| Name | Ra |
|---|---|
| General characteristics | |
Ra is a solar-powered passenger vessel operated by the Broads Authority on the Norfolk Broads in Norfolk, England. Launched around 2000, Ra is recognised as the first solar-powered passenger boat in the United Kingdom. The vessel features a stainless-steel hull and dual 6.5 kW electric motors, allowing quiet, zero-emission trips along the Broads' waterways. It primarily serves sightseeing and wildlife tours, offering wheelchair-accessible cruises that showcase the unique natural environment of this protected inland waterway network.
History
The Broads Authority commissioned Ra in 2000 as part of its commitment to sustainable boating and environmental protection. The boat was purpose-built at Kopf Solardesign in Germany. Initially, Ra operated wildlife and nature cruises on water bodies such as Barton Broad. In 2012, the boat was relocated to Whitlingham Country Park (Whitlingham Broad) near Norwich, and is currently based at Hoveton Riverside Park, offering private and public trip bookings.
Technical specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Length overall | 9.1 m (≈ 29 ft 10 in) |
| Beam | 2.75 m (≈ 9 ft) |
| Hull material | Stainless steel |
| Propulsion | Dual inboard electric motors (~6.5 kW each) |
| Solar panels | ~14 panels (seven rows of two) [approximate; 1.8 kW] |
| Passenger capacity | Up to 9 (at skipper's discretion) |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair-accessible via ramp |
Operation and route
Ra departs from Hoveton Riverside Park near Hoveton & Wroxham railway station, offering scenic trips along the River Bure. Typical trips last 60–90 minutes, sometimes extending to 120 minutes. The route passes through quieter stretches of the Broads, including meadows and woodlands only accessible by water, offering a tranquil wildlife experience.
Environmental significance
Ra is a pioneer in sustainable inland water transport in the UK. It represents the Broads Authority’s commitment to zero-emission boating and protection of the Broads’ delicate ecosystems. The Authority has since developed a network of electric boat charging points and encourages the use of electric and hybrid propulsion for hire and private boats.
Accessibility and visitor experience
Ra offers wildlife and nature experiences suitable for families, nature lovers, and people with mobility challenges. The vessel sits high on the water for good visibility, departs from a location accessible via public transport, and includes wheelchair access.
See also
[1] [2] [3] [4] [5] </references>
References
- ↑ "Boat trips". Broads Authority. Retrieved 2025-10-24.
- ↑ "Secret Broads Boat Trips". VisitTheBroads. Retrieved 2025-10-24.
- ↑ "What We Are Doing in the Broads". Broads Authority. Retrieved 2025-10-24.
- ↑ "Norfolk Broads Chief Welcomes Use of Electric Boats". BBC News. 30 May 2023. Retrieved 2025-10-24.
- ↑ "Green Boating Partnership Secures New Funding to Electrify the Broads". Broads Authority. Retrieved 2025-10-24.
External links
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