How are commercial electric boats certified?

Certification depends on the route and passenger count. EU passenger vessels follow either inland (CE-ES TRIN, EU regulation) or sea-going (Solas / national flag) rules. Most established electric commercial-boat builders ship class-ready packages and handle integration with the certifying body.

What charging infrastructure does a commercial route need?

A typical day-tour vessel charges between turns from a dedicated shore connection (usually 32 to 63 amp AC, sometimes DC). High-frequency ferry routes use opportunity-charging at one or both end-stops to keep the battery topped up without long downtime. Plan the infrastructure with the boat: the two decisions are coupled.

Is the total cost of ownership lower than diesel?

For most operators running more than 800 to 1,200 hours per year, yes. The capex premium of an electric vessel (typically 20 to 40 percent above a diesel equivalent) is offset within 4 to 7 years by lower energy and maintenance costs. The break-even is sensitive to electricity tariffs and the local diesel price.