The World’s First Hydrogen-Powered Superyacht

The first-ever superyacht to run on liquid hydrogen and fuel-cell technology was unveiled at the Monaco Yacht Show last fall. Well, not the actual yacht, but a detailed miniature model of the 367-foot yacht was presented by a Dutch firm called Sinot Yacht & Architecture Design. The watercraft, named Aqua, is still “a concept under development and has not been sold,” a Sinot spokesperson told the BBC.

Recently, it has been reported that Bill Gates commissioned the superyacht for 500 million pound ($650 million), but Sinot told the BBC that it has “no business relationship” with Gates. The vessel would be the first of its kind, only emitting water. The system would depend on two 28-ton vacuum-sealed tanks of liquid hydrogen stored at -423 degrees Fahrenheit. But there’s more to Aqua than just cutting-edge technology.

Aqua would operate at a top speed of 17 knots and have a range of 3,750 nautical miles. The superyacht’s futuristic look complements its eco-conscious technology as well as the typical luxurious air of a typical superyacht, according to the designer. The team at Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design spent five months designing Aqua. “Our challenge was to implement fully operational liquid hydrogen and fuel cells in a true superyacht that is not only groundbreaking in technology but also in design and aesthetics,” the lead designer, Sander Sinot, said in a press release.

The five-deck superyacht would accommodate 14 guests and 31 crew members. It would have a master pavilion, two VIP staterooms, and four regular staterooms. All rooms would feature floor-to-ceiling windows and have a minimalistic, Japanese-inspired style. There would include an infinity pool and extensive outdoor lounging space. Plus, an indoor health and wellness center featuring a gym, a hydro-massage room, and yoga studio. And, of course, Aqua would also have carrying space for two 32-foot tenders and three Jet Skis.