'Alutasi' Electric Boat Launch

Creating a Sustainable Solution in the Marine Environment

We were thrilled to join in celebrating the launch of the first boat in Canada operated by lithium-ion batteries to be approved by Transport Canada. The event, hosted by local project lead, Glas Ocean Electric and government and private sector partners, took place at the Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron.



Mi’kmaw elder Dorene Bernard
Mi’kmaw elder Dorene Bernard
Andy Fillmore, Halifax MP
Andy Fillmore, Halifax MP
Brendan Maguire, MLA
Brendan Maguire, MLA


Ambassatours' traditional Cape Islander fishing vessel, operated primarily for deep sea fishing, was recently converted to a battery-operated, hybrid electric vessel - the first of its kind approved by Transport Canada’s Marine Technology Review Board.



Alutasi photographed in the Northwest Arm
Alutasi photographed in the Northwest Arm


Also celebrating the launch was Alan Syliboy, renown Mi’kmaw artist, who created new art that now wraps the vessel’s exterior. The vessel was launched with its new Mi’kmaq name: Alutasi (Mi’kmaq word for fishing guide boat).


Alan Syliboy, renown Mi’kmaw artist
Alan Syliboy, renown Mi’kmaw artist



Glas Ocean Electric (GOE) is committed to scaling the impact and benefits associated with introducing cleaner energy to coastal waters. GOE is working to measure the impact of smaller vessels on our marine environment. GOE builds electric boat kits to convert existing and new boats to electric propulsion and develops opportunities to dual purpose boat batteries as dynamic energy storage. GOE assists companies in finding funding to convert vessels. GOE works with governments to develop drivers and incentives to support the electrification of boats. GOE works to ensure the solutions provided are financially viable and help companies work toward a future with electric options. -Source glasoceanelectric.com

Sue Malloy, President, Glas Ocean Electric
Sue Malloy, President, Glas Ocean Electric


The Alutasi celebrates the fundamental connectedness of community and environment. The Nova Scotia-based technology used to transform this vessel is expected to lead the way to more green, battery-powered commercial vessels in Canada.

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