Our latest launch “Electric Dreams”, is a 57’ semi-trad stern, parallel hybrid narrowboat, which is actually a conversion of one of our older diesel boats. Formally known as “Eau Rouge”, the 8 year old boat was sold to new owners (Den & Andrea) in October 2025, and has been in our workshop over the winter for an extensive refurbishment alongside the conversion.
The conversion presented several challenges to the Ortomarine team, mainly due to space constraints in the engine room, and the decision to go with LiFePO4 batteries. The parallel hybrid system fitted was one which was removed from one of our other boats – “Bartimaeus” (more about this in future news!) This system previously worked with lead-acid wet traction cell batteries, but on Electric Dreams we decided to install 800Ahr of LFP batteries, so the way the batteries are charged needed changing to ensure the hybrid system did not try to over-charge the new batteries. We fitted a clutch pulley, upgraded 48V alternator and Wakespeed alternator regulator, we also had the Hybrid Marine control box updated to the latest specification, and changed the prop from 17”x12” to a new 18”x12”.
The former owners had looked after the boat extremely well, the hull and paintwork were in very good condition, so we touched up the paintwork in a few areas, but the cabin sides only needed a polish! We also repainted the roof before fitting 10 brand new semi-flexible solar panels (2kW) – which are working a treat as Electric Dreams has featured in the top ten boats on our daily solar data table several times already.
We also took the opportunity to update our Ortomate system to the latest version, complete with large 10” colour touchscreen display at the aft of the boat.
In terms of the interior, modifications were made in the galley, bathroom and bedroom. In the galley, the new owners loved the existing wooden worktops and Belfast sink, but wanted a good-sized breakfast bar fitted. As the boat now has a large battery bank, gas was no longer needed for cooking, so we removed the gas system completely (which was only used for cooking) and fitted an induction hob. Rather than replace the gas cooker with an electric built-in oven, the owners opted to have a cupboard fitted to add more storage. Many of our owners are finding it a better use of space to cook using an air fryer, which can be stored in a cupboard when not in use, rather than having a full size oven fitted which may only be rarely used. Another requirement was to fit a small washing machine, which we managed to fit next to the sink. The kitchen units were all retained, but new shaker-style doors were fitted to freshen up the galley.
The saloon area of the boat was kept much the same as it was, with a built-in oak TV unit (with a new 27” smart TV), large sofa bed and Hamlet Hardy multifuel stove.
In the bathroom, the shower cubicle was refreshed with new tile effect panels and a brand new rainfall thermostatic shower tower. New worktops were fitted to the existing oak vanity unit and under-gunwale storage cupboard.
The original cassette toilet was replaced with a Jabsco Deluxe pump out toilet, with a new stainless steel waste tank installed under the bed. The finishing touch in the bathroom is a new 230V mirror cabinet with multi-white LEDs, shaver point and heated de-mister.
The bedroom is similar in layout to its original design, with a large double bed, an over bed cupboard and its original wardrobe. The bed was reconstructed and now features a gas-strut side-lift, providing access to the under bed storage. The original 12V water pump was upgraded to the 230V powered Grundfos model we fit to all of our new boats. Extra storage was provided by way of a further full-height wardrobe on the starboard In addition to these items, the original dressing unit was replaced with another full height wardrobe to maximise wardrobe space and an additional drawer unit was installed opposite under the gunwale.
All in all, rather an extensive reconfiguration and upgrade, which Den & Andrea are very happy with!
