SV Undertoad is a hybrid-electric bluewater cruising yacht, refitted to prove that offshore sailing, research, and charter can be commercially viable and environmentally responsible.
Powered by electric propulsion, extensive solar generation, and protected by a biocide-free hull coating, SV Undertoad is designed to operate quietly, cleanly, and with minimal impact on the marine environment.
From April 2026, she will operate from Plymouth, UK, offering eco-conscious film production charters, research support, and concept demonstration voyages throughout the South West approaches, Isles of Scilly, Channel Islands, Ireland, and northern France.
Operations are planned on a seasonal, repeat-voyage basis from April to October, with ongoing availability year on year.
On deck
SV Undertoad is a Discovery 55, a proven, ocean-capable sailing yacht selected for her strength, comfort, and suitability for sustainable conversion.
Rather than commissioning a new build, SV Undertoad has undergone a comprehensive refit focused on extending the life of an existing vessel while dramatically reducing its environmental footprint.
The yacht is currently progressing toward MCA Category 2 coding (60 nm), making her suitable for film production charter and scientific research operations.
SV Undertoad is not an experiment — she is a working demonstration of what is already possible when proven offshore design meets modern renewable technology.
The vessel is well suited to projects requiring quiet operation, extended time off-grid, and professional offshore capability. This includes marine habitat studies, seagrass mapping, dive-supported research, environmental monitoring, and renewable technology trials.
SV Undertoad offers a practical alternative to larger research vessels, enabling smaller teams to operate efficiently while minimising environmental disturbance.
Discussions are underway with universities, NGOs, and research organisations seeking a reliable, purpose-built platform for repeat field operations.
SV Undertoad is available as a low-impact filming and media platform for documentary, broadcast, and branded content projects focused on the marine environment, adventure, science, and sustainability.
The yacht offers a stable, ocean-capable base with quiet electric operation, making it well-suited to filming in sensitive coastal and offshore environments where noise, emissions, and visual impact matter.
SV Undertoad can support onboard filming, support-boat cooperation, dive operations, and extended periods off-grid.
Every voyage is operated professionally, transparently, and with environmental responsibility at its core.
Plymouth, UKBuilt to cruise long distance in comfort and style. A proven, ocean-capable bluewater yacht selected for her strength and suitability for sustainable conversion.
Diesel engine replaced with Oceanvolt electric propulsion system. HVO-compatible generator added for renewable diesel backup. Silent, zero-emission motoring.
Extensive solar generation installed for extended off-grid operation. Capable of autonomous power generation for instruments, navigation, and comfort systems.
Traditional toxic antifouling replaced with biocide-free silicone foul-release bottom coating. Zero harmful discharge into the marine environment.
Final refit and MCA Category 2 coding (60 nm). Ready for commercial film production charter, scientific research, and technology demonstration operations from Plymouth.
SV Undertoad is currently completing her final refit and coding ahead of a Spring 2026 launch.
All voyages are operated on a commercial hire basis in support of professional film, research, and technology demonstration activities.
SV Undertoad is available to third-party organisations. Expressions of interest are welcome from film and media production, scientific and environmental research, and education, outreach, and aligned partnership projects.
Completing coding and refit ahead of Spring 2026 operational launch.