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Transiting the Kiel Canal with an electric motor

September 20, 2026 · 27 min · 8K views · Kiel Canal

What this video covers

Nova Loman transits the Kiel Canal in a sailboat equipped with an electric motor, managing battery range and charging logistics over a 50-mile route.11:49 Because the vessel lacks sufficient range to complete the transit on a single charge, Loman relies on overnight shore power and solar panels to maintain the battery bank.17:25 She notes that shore power infrastructure at intermediate stops like Rendsburg and Brunsbüttel is limited, with some locations offering only 6-amp service, which risks blowing fuses.20:12 Pleasure craft must monitor specific VHF channels—such as channel 12 in the Holtenau lock and channel 13 in Brunsbüttel—and are prohibited from using self-steering systems due to the surge caused by large cargo ships.6:00 Loman advises purchasing canal transit tickets online to avoid manual payment delays at pontoons.5:19 She also highlights the Rendsburg transporter bridge, which carries a ferry suspended from the structure, as a potential hazard for vessels unaware of its movement.13:27

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