The Z-11 Proton, designed and built by the Zin Boats team, is the world’s first high-speed, all-carbon fiber electric yacht tender in production. Created for a hydrogen-powered superyacht, the Z-11 is a true zero-emissions vessel—its electricity is generated cleanly at the source, completing a fully sustainable system.
Measuring 11.6 meters in length and 3 meters in beam, the Z-11 features twin 600kW motors and Zin Boats’ proprietary propulsion system. With a 400kWh battery pack, it delivers an unprecedented combination of range and performance, achieving speeds up to 55 knots.
The exterior design philosophy focused on clarity and strength—deliberately minimal, yet undeniably powerful. Every surface is precisely sculpted to create clean highlights and an assertive bow flare that cuts effortlessly through heavy seas. Constructed from a single contiguous piece of carbon fiber, the hull has no visible joints, presenting a seamless, monolithic form that is both aesthetically pure and structurally superior.
All functional components are integrated and hidden, creating an uncluttered silhouette. Navigation lights are built into the bow, evoking an automotive design language. A distinctive “ribbon” element at the transom visually separates the swim platform from the topsides, lending the boat a light, open aesthetic while preserving structural integrity.
The interior reflects the elegance of minimalism inspired by traditional Japanese design. At first glance, it appears empty—but it conceals a wealth of features: boarding steps, ladders, a shower, bar, retractable sunshade, and more. Every element is engineered to be hidden until needed, revealing itself through finely crafted mechanisms. Once opened, these components celebrate their utility and design with visible structure, premium finishes, and honest materials.
Weight reduction guided every decision—from precision-machined aluminum structures to custom thin veneers. Every gram saved enhances range and performance, contributing to the Z-11’s unmatched efficiency.
To allow the Z-11 to fit within the confines of a superyacht garage, we developed a groundbreaking folding hardtop system. This innovation makes it the world’s first truly convertible boat—equally suited to open-bow cruising or high-speed enclosed operation. The hardtop also houses a solar panel, supplying enough energy to power all auxiliary systems and further extending the vessel’s range.
The Z-11 is also the first electric boat with full joystick steering, offering intuitive, video game-like control for precise docking. By eliminating hydraulic systems, we’ve also removed oil from the equation—simplifying maintenance and enhancing environmental stewardship.
As the first of its kind, the Z-11 Proton represents the next generation of yacht tenders: high-performance, zero-emissions, and effortlessly beautiful. Quiet, clean, and crafted with care, it signals a new era in marine design—where sustainability meets sophistication, and performance meets elegance.
Category:TransportationAward Year:2025Designers:Piotr Zin, Ross Carmichael, Michael Givens, Zin Boats Inc., Seattle, Washington, USA Manufacturer:Zin Boats Inc., Seattle, Washington, USA
