Name Redshank

Built in 1936 by W J Yarwood, Northwich, REDSHANK is a narrow boat converted for passenger use with a capacity for 54 passengers. Now owned and operated by Bristol Packet Boat Trips, she is based in Wapping Dock, Bristol, and undertakes pleasure cruises in the Bristol area with occasional trips to Bath and the Avon Gorge during the summer months. She also runs charter trips.

In 2024, in what the owners believe to be the first conversion of its kind in the UK, REDSHANK was converted to 100% electrical propulsion by installing lithium batteries and electric motors. The original diesel engine remains onboard but very rarely use it. The electric motor was built by Devon-based company Lynch Motors, who have partnered with a Dutch company called MG that manufacture lithium iron phosphate batteries and have a track record in passenger boat conversions in the Netherlands.  The electric motor runs on a very low voltage, 48v, making it much safer.  It's very early days for this technology in the marine environment and it took 18 months of negotiation with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency to get the conversion signed off.  The crew have been delighted with the boat’s performance, which has “exceeded all expectations.”  The batteries enable a speed of six knots and have a running time of two days.  Moreover,  passengers now experience a smooth, vibration free, almost silent ride.  The noisiest thing you can hear is the water lapping against the side of the boat. Bristol Packet Boat Trips have been told the batteries have a life cycle of 10 years.