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West Nautical interviewed Superyacht Chief Engineer, Pete Baker, about sustainability within the yachting industry, particularly relating to the engine room and engineering department. Pete has been in the maritime industry since the late 90’s, starting as a second engineer working his way up to Chief Engineer. Pete has also been involved with several new build projects and now joins West Nautical as Technical Manager in April.
How is the design of engine rooms different in 2025 compared to the previous decade?
Over the past decade, the implementation of legislation for exhaust gas emissions and ballast water treatment, on both new and existing vessels, has indeed had a significant impact on the design and development of yacht engine rooms. The additional equipment requires a considerable amount of space, and superyachts have a primary focus on comfort and luxurious interiors. A reduction of owner and guest accommodation is not always practicable or feasible, so the additional equipment has to be condensed into the existing space. Another notable change has been the integration of hybrid propulsion systems, these systems can vary from a conventional propulsion system with electrical assistance, to full diesel electric packages with alternative propulsion systems such as Azipods. Both systems have their own unique space requirements, but the diesel electric system has much greater flexibility with regards to the equipment placement on board.
Is there any new equipment being added to engine rooms to improve sustainability?
Yes, there has been an increasing focus on adding new equipment into engine rooms to improve sustainability, on newer vessels the integration of battery storage systems, combined with traditional generators, can allow the vessel to operate with greater fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, these systems also require additional infrastructure. Hydrogen and methanol fuel cells are also being explored and fitted into a small number of yachts.
How has hybrid propulsion has changed your role as an engineer?
Hybrid propulsion systems are built upon existing technology but add a layer of complexity due to the integration of electrical components and energy storage systems. Many of the components used in hybrid systems, such as electric motors, generators and control systems, have been in use on board yachts for years. However, when combined with new elements like battery storage systems and advanced power management software, the entire system becomes more intricate, where operating and maintaining the system safely and efficiently requires a deeper understanding and a new skill set.
With the increased trend in sustainability in yachting, how has the engineering department become greener?
The Engineering Department ensures that all international laws and regulations concerning sewage, garbage, oil, and air pollution are strictly followed. They monitor all vessel systems daily to ensure the vessel operates safely and efficiently. In addition, they implement energy-saving strategies, such as utilising alternative power sources like dockside shore power. The department makes the most of the of energy-saving features built into the vessel’s systems, all of which help to minimise fuel consumption.
What is the biggest change you have seen in the engineering department within the last 10 years?
After years of dealing with high latency, low bandwidth satellite internet services, LEO “low earth orbit” Satellite Internet service, such as Starlink, must be one of the biggest changes not only to the yachting industry but the complete maritime industry. As this provides yachts with an affordable, reliable broadband satellite internet solutions.
What do you enjoy most about being a yacht engineer?
The variety and challenges of the industry, from the day-to-day operations, where you’re ensuring everything is running smoothly, to maintenance and refit periods, it’s never the same day twice. Supervising the construction of new builds also brings its own set of challenges. There’s something truly rewarding about being part of a team that brings a brand-new yacht to life, from cutting steel to on-boarding owners for their maiden voyage.
