After nearly two years of proving itself in New Zealand waters, Earthling went on the move in June, beginning what has since become a steadily unfolding European campaign.
Designed and owned by New Zealand engineer John McGettigan, the hybrid electric Earthling E40 departed Auckland mid-2025, marking the transition from local validation to international testing and exposure. Since then, the project has been documented through regular YouTube updates, which began appearing around six months ago and continue to track the boat’s progress, challenges, and real-world performance.
The centrepiece of the European phase has been a solo delivery passage of approximately 1000 kilometres from Genoa to Barcelona, undertaken single handed by McGettigan. The passage followed a demanding relocation process, including delayed loading in Auckland, a difficult at-sea lift, and a tense unload in Genoa.
Once underway, the E40 settled quickly into its efficiency sweet spot of 8 to 10 knots. Conditions across the Mediterranean provided a genuine test, ranging from thunderstorms and bleak weather to uncomfortable 2 metre swells near Monaco. Throughout the passage, the hybrid electric system performed as intended, delivering quiet, low vibration, and efficient long-distance operation.
For McGettigan, the passage was practical proof of the concept he describes as “sailing without sails”, demonstrating that hybrid electric propulsion is no longer limited to short range or harbour use.
https://www.boatingnz.co.nz/2026/01/earthling-e-40-to-attend-international-multihull-show-2026/
The European reception has been positive. Earthling has been welcomed into the growing electric and hybrid boating community, supported by local networks and industry advocates. Invitations have followed to speak at E-Boat Association forums and to attend shows and sea trials in Spain and France.
The E40 platform is intended as a production solution for private owners, with a parallel E40T variant aimed at commercial operators. Two build slots for sisterships are currently earmarked for 2026, as Earthling’s European story continues to unfold.
