the world’s very first hydrogen gas fuel-cell superyacht, affectionately named Project 821, has officially been put up for sale. This monumental vessel, rumored to have been commissioned by none other than billionaire Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, is poised to revolutionize luxury travel on the open seas.
Project 821, a colossal 390-foot (119-meter) superyacht, emerges as a beacon of sustainability in the realm of maritime transportation. Designed to operate on ‘green’ hydrogen, a clean and renewable energy source derived from splitting water using electricity generated from renewable sources, this vessel embodies the fusion of cutting-edge technology and environmental consciousness.
‘For those captivated by cutting-edge innovations,’ Feadship said in a statement, ‘this yacht presents an opportunity for potential acquisition as it showcases the pinnacle of modern technological advancements.’
Step aboard Project 821 and be transported to a world of unparalleled luxury and comfort. Boasting two lavish bedrooms, a fully-equipped gymnasium, spacious offices, and a multitude of deluxe bathrooms, the vessel offers a home away from home for discerning travellers. Mimicking the ambience of a high-end apartment, every aspect of the interior has been meticulously crafted to ensure an indulgent experience at sea.
Crafted by renowned Dutch shipbuilder Feadship, Project 821 made its grand debut on May 4th at the prestigious Amsterdam shipyard. With an estimated price tag of a staggering €600m ($647m), this superyacht represents the epitome of opulence and sophistication, attracting the attention of luxury enthusiasts and environmental advocates alike.
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According to Feadship, the boat’s power and food stores allow for an ‘entire week’s worth of silent operation at anchor or [briefly] navigating emission-free at 10 knots while leaving harbors or cruising in protected marine zones.’ ‘It creates, in essence, a secluded four-level townhouse-by-the sea,’ the firm boasted in their press release, ‘within the much larger yacht.’
“At each deck level, there are inviting private lifestyle destinations to savour such as a coffee corner and games niche on the bridge deck, a library on the main deck, and a private dining room with a sea terrace and adjacent ensure stateroom on the lower deck,” the press release gushes.
“It creates, in essence, a secluded four-level townhouse-by-the-sea within the much larger yacht.”
At the core of Project 821 lies its revolutionary propulsion system, powered by liquid hydrogen stored in specially designed cryogenic tanks. Unlike conventional yachts that rely on fossil fuels, this vessel harnesses the clean energy of hydrogen gas to drive its engines and onboard amenities. The fuel cells convert hydrogen and oxygen into electricity and pure water, ensuring minimal environmental impact while maximizing efficiency.
“It takes eight to ten times more space to store hydrogen that the energy equivalent in diesel fuel,” Feadship points out.
In addition to its eco-friendly credentials, Project 821 offers an array of luxurious features designed to pamper its occupants. The ship has five decks above the waterline and two below sea level. It has 14 balconies, seven fold-out platforms, a pool, a Jacuzzi, a steam room, two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a home gym, a pantry, and two offices each with a fireplace. The ship also comes with space for its owner to stock a full library.
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According to Arabnews, Speaking to Forbes, designer Sander Sinot said: “With every project, I challenge my team and myself to surpass ourselves.
“For the development of AQUA we took inspiration from the lifestyle of a discerning, forward-looking owner, the fluid versatility of water and cutting-edge technology to combine this in a 112-meter superyacht with a fully operational liquid hydrogen and fuel cell system that features groundbreaking technology, as well as design and aesthetics,” he added.
Collaborating with British design firm RWD Studio, Project 821 boasts an interior ambience characterized by exquisite materials and meticulous attention to detail. Marble, rattan, and limed oak combine to create a coastal-inspired aesthetic that is both timeless and elegant. Hidden balconies, which slide out at the touch of a button, add an element of surprise and delight to the onboard experience, enhancing the vessel’s allure.
