Pinball Boat Pinball

The Pinball is built by Pinball Boat at the Pinball–Ocqueteau yard on France’s Île d’Oléron. The project brings together electrical engineer Pascal Duclos and naval architect Stéphane Chaurial, with Blanc Tailleur contributing exterior and interior styling, space planning and the helm interface. Following prototype development and the takeover of Ocqueteau in 2020, the model appeared at the Grand Pavois in La Rochelle in 2021.

Measuring 9 metres overall, with an 8.35-metre hull and a 2.97-metre beam, the Pinball provides approximately 20 square metres of usable open space. The forward sunpad covers more than six square metres, while the aft cockpit centres on a dining table beneath an extendable T-top. Lifting the forward sunpad reveals an igloo-style sleeping compartment with a 1.40-by-2-metre double berth. A separate toilet-and-shower compartment provides privacy without turning the boat into an enclosed cabin cruiser.

The petrol configuration combines a 350 hp inboard with a Z-drive and two 8 kW electric propulsion motors; a 430 hp Volvo V8 DPS is an alternative. Maximum hybrid speed is approximately 25 knots. Electric operation reaches 5 knots, with approximately 80 minutes of endurance at that speed. In electric mode, the combustion engine stops and the sterndrive lifts clear, leaving propulsion to protected propellers inside hull-integrated ducts. A mechanically coupled REGEN motor-generator recharges the battery during hybrid operation and provides assistance when getting onto the plane.

The hull, deck and other composite components are manufactured by vacuum infusion. Two fine bows reduce resistance at displacement speeds, while the separated hulls provide stability at anchor. Light displacement is approximately 3.8 tonnes, and draught in the shallow-water configuration is 0.50 metres. CE certification is category C for up to 15 people. The catamaran hull can also settle level when taking the ground, without supporting legs.

The model has evolved through different propulsion and electrical specifications rather than a clearly separated succession of generations. Early examples include a 265 hp Nanni diesel installation, while later specifications emphasise the 350 hp and optional 430 hp petrol engines. Battery ratings and tank capacities vary between configurations. The later technical specification lists a 22 kWh, 48 V lithium battery, 420 litres of petrol and 105 litres of fresh water, making individual build specifications important.

Notable leisure equipment includes an integrated plancha, a 100-litre drawer refrigerator, roof storage for inflatable kayaks or paddleboards, and a stern platform that folds down towards water level. A 10-inch touchscreen, electronic throttles and electrically controlled steering simplify operation. Intended for owner-operated outings and rental use, the Pinball prioritises coastal day trips, swimming stops and sheltered-water exploration over extended liveaboard cruising; its overnight accommodation is limited to two.