off the wall
A superyacht entirely powered by emissions-free fuel The world’s first hydrogen-powered superyacht is a study in sustainable elegance Compiled by Tshepo Tshabalala Photos Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design
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eet Aqua, the world’s first hydrogen-powered superyacht. Its design combines sustainability with elegance. The 112-metre-long boat uses one of the cleanest fuels – liquid hydrogen – which is stored in two 28-ton vacuum-isolated tanks at extremely low temperatures (-253°C). The hydrogen is converted into electrical energy by proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells, and produces no greenhouse gases or carbon emissions. The only by-product of the process is water. This fully powers the entire boat’s electrical system and propulsion. Designed by the Dutch company Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design, the vessel was presented at the 2019 Monaco Yacht Show. It can accommodate up to 14 guests and 31 crew members over a five-deck floor plan that includes a gym, an infinity pool, a lounge, several staterooms, a master pavilion, a helipad and other facilities. Aqua will reach speeds of up to 17 knots (about 31km/h), and have a range of 3 750 nautical miles. The 56 tons of liquid hydrogen will allow the superyacht to cruise from London to New York in one shot. The proposed launch of the vessel, which will be at the forefront of its superyacht peers, is 2024.
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SOUTH AFRICAN PROPERTY REVIEW – APRIL 2020
