Sailing Around the World with “Moana“:
Why Laura and Arne Rely on the Torqeedo Travel XP Electric Outboard

Crossing the Atlantic is one of the greatest milestones in sailing—and Laura Pape and Arne Weidtke have successfully achieved it.

Sailing more than 2,000 nautical miles in just 21 days, the couple from Germany crossed the ocean aboard their sailboat Moana. Today, they are exploring the Caribbean, sharing their journey with over 55,000 followers on Instagram.

As part of Torqeedo’s “Electric Explorers” ambassador program, Laura and Arne represent a new generation of sailors embracing electric propulsion as a core part of life at sea. Their circumnavigation is not only about epic passages but also about finding practical, reliable solutions that truly work in everyday long-distance sailing.

Everyday Life on a Bluewater Voyage:
Mobility Between Boat and Shore

Long-distance sailing is about more than ocean crossings. In reality, daily life is shaped by countless small trips—going ashore, buying supplies, exploring new anchorages, or simply enjoying land excursions.

The dinghy serves as the essential link between boat and land. How efficient, comfortable, and reliable these short trips are depends largely on the outboard motor—especially over extended journeys.

Laura and Arne know from firsthand experience how critical a dependable propulsion system is for their dinghy, a YAM 275Air:

"Since we started using our Torqeedo, we no longer worry about headwinds or long distances. The display reliably shows how far we can still go, and it handles stronger gusts effortlessly. It gives us so much freedom to reach shore anytime we want."

- Laura & Arne Weidtke

The Difference in Daily Use: Torqeedo Travel XP

Today, Laura and Arne use the Torqeedo Travel XP electric outboard on their dinghy—and it has proven itself under real-world circumnavigation conditions.

With a powerful 1600-watt direct-drive motor, it excels in tight anchorages and narrow marina channels. Control is precise and responsive, even in wind and current. Its thrust is comparable to a 5 HP combustion engine.

Key Benefits in Everyday Use:

• Instant readiness with a charged battery

• Intuitive operation for stress-free handling

• Spontaneous shore trips without preparation

“With 1,000 watts of solar power onboard, our batteries are usually well charged, and we often have excess energy. We simply plug in the Torqeedo after every trip—or, if needed, charge it faster via the inverter. That way, it's always ready for the next ride.”

- Laura & Arne Weidtke

Weighing just 12.6 kg, the Travel XP is also lightweight, easy to carry, and quick to mount—an important advantage when moving between yacht and dinghy.

Quiet, Efficient, and Close to Nature

One of the standout features of the electric outboard is the experience itself. Its near-silent operation creates a calm, immersive ride and allows sailors to connect more deeply with their surroundings.

In quiet bays, wildlife often comes closer to the boat—offering unique, unforgettable moments.

"With the Torqeedo, we move incredibly quietly and feel much closer to nature. We’ve seen turtles and dolphins surface right in front of our dinghy while listening to the gentle water and tropical birds. No engine noise disturbing us or the wildlife.

Plus, the motor and battery are so light we can carry them from the yacht to the dinghy with one hand—it makes everyday life so much easier!"

- Laura & Arne Weidtke

Electric Mobility Onboard:
More Than Just Propulsion

For Laura and Arne, the electric outboard has become an integral part of their modern onboard lifestyle. It fits seamlessly into a system designed for efficiency, comfort, and sustainability.

Solutions like the Torqeedo Travel XP demonstrate how electric mobility on the water is no longer a niche—it’s practical, reliable, and ready for real-world use.

Especially on long journeys like a circumnavigation, where dependable processes and equipment are essential, electric propulsion contributes to a more conscious, forward-thinking way of life at sea.eedo Travel XP with a YAM275 Air dinghy, giving them quiet, low-emisson mobility and reliable performance that supports their life at sea.