Innovation profile: a robotic boat cleaner

A New Zealand start up called Escobar Marine Solutions is offering inspections and cleaning of boat hulls underwater using specially designed drones. This technology not only helps prevent the buildup of harmful growths that can damage anti-fouling coatings but also contributes to maintaining a clean and healthy marine environment.

Rene Escobar says: “The process begins with a thorough hull inspection to ensure suitability for cleaning. The primary aim of our service is to preserve water cleanliness, mitigate the spread of invasive species, and protect the marine ecosystem. 

Our drones are equipped with a 50-micron filter to ensure that no contaminants enter the water during operations, aligning with strict environmental standards.

Founder Rene Escobar is in contact with his local council to confirm the feasibility of offering this service for boats with light fouling.  While most hulls can be effectively cleaned underwater, any  heavily fouled hulls or those with marine pests onboard, will need to be hauled out. 

Clean Below? Good to Go shares information from time to time with boat owners about new products that are becoming available. These are not recommendations and many factors must be taken into account when considering biofouling situations. Please research carefully and consult with professionals from the industry to ensure that solutions are fit for your boat. If you have a product for us to consider in a future issue, please email info@marinepests.nz  with brief details.