AQUON One: Want a zero-emissions luxury yacht with an unlimited range?

Imagine a luxury yacht gliding effortlessly through the water, powered solely by solar energy and hydrogen fuel cells.

European yacht broker MYSEA has just announced the beginning of sales for the AQUON One, a 64-foot eco-catamaran with an unlimited range with zero emissions.

The company behind this eco-friendly vessel is AQUON, a sustainability-focused yacht builder based in Zurich. Founded within Swiss Sustainable Yachts AG, AQUON combines Swiss-quality engineering, Spanish naval architecture expertise, and Italian design to create a new breed of yachts that are both luxurious and environmentally responsible.

Let’s dive into how the AQUON One achieves its zero-emissions status and potential unlimited range.

The AQUON One has 64 square meters of photovoltaic solar panels on its roof, which charge onboard lithium-ion batteries. These batteries provide short-term electricity storage for propulsion and onboard energy usage. But the real game-changer is the integration of hydrogen fuel cells into the yacht’s energy system.

Excess solar energy converts desalinated seawater into hydrogen gas, which is then compressed and stored in carbon tanks aboard the vessel. The hydrogen fuel cells convert this gas back into electricity when needed, providing additional power for the yacht’s electric motors and onboard amenities. The only byproducts are pure water and thermal heat, which are cleverly repurposed to provide hot water and cabin heating.

A smooth and sustainable sailing experience

With its solar panels and hydrogen fuel cells, the AQUON One can cruise at speeds of 4-6 knots indefinitely, as long as there is sufficient sunlight. Even without replenishing its energy sources, the yacht can travel for up to three days. When energy conservation is not a priority, the AQUON One can reach cruising speeds of 8 knots (9.2 mph) and a top speed of 16 knots (18.4 mph).

Priced at 7,400,000 euros (approximately $8.1 million, excluding VAT), the AQUON One is costly, but the savings on fuel costs are a compelling incentive for eco-conscious yacht enthusiasts. With its luxurious accommodations for eight to ten passengers, the AQUON One offers a genuinely sustainable and indulgent yachting experience.

Key stats on the AQUON One yacht:

1. Length: 19.5m (64 ft)
2. Maximum range: Limitless* (*At 4-6 knots with sufficient sunlight)
3. Passenger capacity: 10 people
4. Solar panels: 64 m2
5. Top speed: 16 knots
6. Cruising speed: 8 knots

Energy System:

1. Green Solar Energy: Photovoltaic panels on the roof convert sunlight into electricity.
2. Green Hydrogen Generation: Electrolyser and compressor use excess solar energy to convert desalinated seawater into green hydrogen (H2) gas, then compressed to 300 bar.
3. Long-term H2 Storage: Compressed hydrogen is stored in carbon tanks as long-term energy storage onboard.
4. Short-term Battery Storage: Small Li-ion batteries serve as short-term electricity storage for propulsion and onboard energy usage.
5. Propulsion: Powered by two fuel cell electric engines (one per hull), cruising is emission-free and silent.
6. Electricity Production: Fuel cells convert the hydrogen back to electricity whenever energy is needed for propulsion or living onboard. The only emissions are pure water and thermal heat used to cover the onboard hot water supply and heating.

For those who want to explore the AQUON One further, the company website offers a virtual tour, providing an in-depth look at the yacht’s cutting-edge technology and elegant design.

As we face the challenges of climate change and depleting resources, the AQUON One stands as a shining example of how innovative technologies can help to create a more sustainable future.

The combination of solar power, hydrogen fuel cells, and intelligent design choices may pave the way for a new generation of eco-friendly luxury vessels that allow us to enjoy the open seas without sacrificing our environment.