The Falkirk Wheel, the world’s only rotating boat lift, has welcomed its first all-electric passenger vessel following the conversion of the Antonine, a 23-year-old boat used to ferry tourists along Scotland’s historic canal system. The retrofit is part of Scottish Canals’ broader effort to reduce carbon emissions and enhance sustainable tourism.
The Antonine, which previously operated with a diesel engine, now runs on a 50kW direct-drive electric motor, following a full conversion carried out by NoPuttPutt, a small electric boat specialist based in Bristol. The boat also features electric thrusters and a battery system capable of powering twenty 90-minute trips, consuming around 7.5kWh per trip. Charging is done overnight, requiring approximately 13 hours.
“Today’s launch of an all-electric passenger boat at The Falkirk Wheel is another step forward towards our net zero goals,” said Ross McMillan, Head of Destinations at Scottish Canals. “The upgrade of the Antonine will not only improve our customers’ experiences, as they embark on their journey up the world’s only rotating boat lift, but will also help us continue to meet our high sustainability practices already recognised throughout the site.”
The Falkirk Wheel, a major Scottish engineering landmark, connects the Forth & Clyde and Union Canals, lifting boats between two different elevations via a 35-meter-high rotating platform. Since opening in the early 2000s, it has become a popular attraction offering guided boat trips and canal cruises.
Scottish Canals has confirmed that work has now begun to convert its second passenger vessel, the Archimedes, to electric propulsion. In addition, the agency introduced self-drive eBoats at the Falkirk Wheel and the nearby Kelpies in 2023, reflecting a wider push to decarbonise its canal fleet and improve visitor experiences through cleaner technology.