Abstract
In this paper a study on the construction of a solar boat prototype is presented. Basic components of solar boats and the construction of a simple solar boat prototype by undergraduate students are described. Main purposes of this study are to examine the feasibility of developing commercial solar boats and to evaluate the effect of solar boat construction on the education of students. A low-cost solar boat prototype is constructed by assembling parts available in the market or laboratory. From the prototype construction experience, students obtained basic knowledge on the design and construction of commercial or racing solar boats. In addition, it is shown that the construction of a solar boat can be au effective educational program to expose students to practical multidisciplinary study involving naval architecture, ocean engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical and electronics engineering.
