yacht zero

A zero fossil fuel superyacht

Foundation Zero is driving the development of Zero, a groundbreaking superyacht aiming to be entirely fossil fuel-free. Led by a diverse team of experts, the project explores innovative solutions like hydrogeneration and thermal batteries. Scheduled for delivery in 2025, Zero sets a new standard for sustainable luxury yachting.

A zero fossil fuel superyacht might sound like an impossible dream – but make no mistake – steps are being taken to make it a reality. There have been huge advances in finding sustainable solutions for superyachts in recent years, but none have gone all the way to building a net-zero luxury vessel – until now. 

The groundbreaking yacht – named Zero – is supported by a new sustainable organisation focused on sharing open-source renewable energy solutions and technical innovations called Foundation Zero, populated with experts from both outside and inside the industry. Marnix Hoekstra of design studio Vripack is one of the experts involved from within the yachting world. 

“What is noteworthy with the Foundation is that next to industry leaders in naval architecture and sailing – there are also very high-end computer coders, battery experts and others, who might not know anything about yachting but know everything about their own field,” he explains. The result is a sort of dream team of talent who are putting their heads together to conduct priceless research and to innovate like never before.  

“ In the end, yes there will be a yacht created,” says Hoekstra, “but the biggest achievement will be all the individual elements which we’re developing and prototyping that will be made available for the general public, so that the rest of the world can use them for their own benefit.” That open source structure is thanks to forward-thinking initiators who are motivated to make real, measurable change. “The foundation does not believe in a closed, secretive industry but is very much on the forefront of collaboration and idea-sharing,” explains Hoekstra.   

Starting from scratch

Building a zero-fossil fuel superyacht requires a total rethink in terms of designing a yacht. “We can’t run any kind of engine on board – there is no engine room!” says Hoekstra. Dykstra Naval Architects, who are part of the project – have been heavily involved in finding alternatives. “We feel hydrogeneration will be the largest source of energy on board to top up the batteries,” explains Mark Leslie-Miller. “The concept itself is not new but the extent to which we rely on it on this yacht had big implications. 

Dykstra Naval Architects designed a similar system on the groundbreaking yacht Black Pearl where they used the rotation of the main propellers to harvest energy – and for Project Zero , they saw opportunities to improve on the system even further. “Still, it takes a brave team,” says Leslie-Miller, “and it will definitely have implications on the operational planning of the yacht – you can’t do whatever you like with it.”

Leslie-Miller points to the most challenging scenario – staying at anchor for a week. “You’ll use a lot of energy for systems and laundry and cooking, but you still need to replenish that energy. Part of it can be done by solar but it’s not enough – so you’ll need to go sailing or restock the batteries.”

The Foundation is also investigating the use of thermal batteries to drive the air-conditioning of the yacht. “For this we are researching how to harvest heat from the solar panels that we’ll have on board,” says Hoekstra.  The technology will be interesting for the whole industry as in theory it could be used on board any vessel. 

An industry-wide influence? 

So, how long before some of Project Zero ’s innovations are absorbed by the wider industry? “The superyacht industry as a whole is really willing to understand things better and try to learn – however they also still need to fully open up their eyes,” says Hoekstra . “ They are very focused on picking the right fuel – but obviously leaving no footprint goes far beyond that.”

Leslie- Miller agrees. “I think it’ll take a while until there are more zero fossil fuel yachts because it takes a brave owner. But I think all the little side projects we’re doing simultaneously can individually be used on other yachts. For instance, you don’t have to be as extreme as Project Zero when using hydrogeneration – you could for example, use it to stock up a battery and enjoy a silent night period after sailing all day – that’s something a lot of clients would enjoy. Or there’s the option to keep the generator off while you’re crossing the ocean.”

Of course, there have been boats sailing across the ocean without any fossil fuels for centuries so it was never a case of ‘this can’t be done.’ “It never crossed our minds to say it was impossible,” says Leslie Miller, “we were just curious to see how comfortable and flexible we could make the yacht.”

“Part of the brief is also that the yacht should be stunning. So there is to be no compromise on aesthetic as such,” says Hoekstra. Already the yacht’s aluminium hull is being outfitted at Vitters in the Netherlands. “The mentality to prove that nothing is impossible resonates throughout our shipyard and has done from the day we started,” says Bas Peute of Vitters. “Vitters has introduced a number of innovations such as the V-drum, V-bollard, V-anchoring and V-pods which have become the industry standard. We are convinced that Project Zero will again set the benchmark for the industry which makes us very proud.”  

The yacht is scheduled for delivery in 2025. The industry waits with bated breath.

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License to Sail: Net Zero and the Risks for Yachting

“If your yacht doesn’t participate in the Yacht Zero project, it’ll be heading towards stranded asset status.”

That’s the stirring message from superyacht captain turned tech entrepreneur and environmental activist Nigel Marrison. He warned that if superyacht owners fail to start taking responsibility for their yacht’s emissions and environmental impact , they’ll soon face the very real prospect of losing access to finance and insurance for their yachts and losing their license to operate at all.

The yachting industry is living on borrowed time

Captain Marrison is the founder of Blue ESG , a groundbreaking yacht-specific ESG reporting tool.

Blue ESG adopts a framework based on corporate ESG practices, with a methodology specifically designed for superyachts. It is extremely cutting-edge and even includes an opportunity for yachts to align their decarbonisation efforts with IMO ‘Net Zero’ standards and expectations. This includes compliance with the IMO’s Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (known as SEEMP Part III) and Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) regulations which came into effect for merchant ships as of January 2023.

According to Captain Marrison, the yachting industry is facing an existential threat due to a combination of climate change versus the own industry’s lack of action in that regard, and major negative shifts in societal acceptance of the industry.

He emphasised that the industry’s next move will be key to whether it survives or dies. “Do we just wait for the inevitable regulations that are no doubt coming? Or do we take a proactive approach?” he asked. “Regulation adherence is currently not mandatory for yachts, but there’s no doubt that we’re being too slow; We can’t just leave it up to the regulators. The yachting industry has to see this as a call to action to be accountable and responsible and to do our part for the environment and for ourselves because, without this, the industry faces a real threat to its very existence.”

Net Zero and the evolving regulatory environment

While the yachting industry is largely taking a wait-and-see approach to emissions regulations, the banking and insurance sectors are moving quickly with ambitious, strict net zero rules, and yacht owners will soon begin to feel the bite of the requirements that will follow from the net zero programs in those sectors. And the dire consequences of not complying.

One of the most notable programs is the EU’s Emissions Trading System (EU ETS). EU ETS is one of the EU’s key policies to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. EU ETS includes various stipulations that will improve, monitor and report on emissions targets, and will penalise heavy emitters. “ Adopting project ‘Yacht Zero’ will mitigate exposure to carbon taxes and emissions penalties,” said Captain Marrison.

The second big initiative is the United Nations Net-Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA). NZBA is an ‘industry-led, UN-convened’ group aiming to ‘accelerate… the implementation of decarbonisation strategies’. It brings together 125 banks in 41 countries, ‘representing over 40% of global banking assets’ and which ‘are committed to aligning their lending and investment portfolios with net-zero emissions by 2050’.

However, NZBA has also set ‘intermediate targets for 2030 or sooner’, further stressing the urgency with which emissions must be addressed within yachting. 

The insurance industry is taking similar measures. Poseidon Principles, an alliance of marine insurers, is on the same track according to Captain Marrison. “Poseidon Principles also has a Net Zero 2050 target for their insurance portfolios. That means that when you want to insure your asset, you’ll need to be able to prove that it aligns with Net Zero 2050. And if not, how are you going to insure it without that?”

“Together with the banking sector’s Net Zero 2050, yacht owners may find themselves in real trouble,” he continued. “You may own a yacht and want to either buy a new one, refinance it or refit it. How do you then access a financial product on an asset that doesn’t have a Net Zero 2050 strategy?”

The effects of this are already being felt in the merchant shipping fleet, he added. “The CII or Carbon Intensity Index in shipping has already proven that it affects the value of the vessel, and compliant ships are already experiencing the benefits of it and vice versa.”

Act now or be a bystander to your yacht’s devaluation

Captain Marrison emphasised that if the industry doesn’t immediately adopt a proactive approach to - at the very least - aligning its decarbonisation to IMO net zero standards and expectations, then superyachts risk being deemed to have stranded asset status. “A stranded asset is one that previously had value but, due to external factors such as societal or climate factors, no longer has a license to operate,” he said. “In a world that’s focused on Net Zero 2050 as a minimum, stranded asset status is a very real risk for a superyacht. If a yacht doesn’t take any action between now and 2050, it will undoubtedly become a stranded asset and have no value.”

In addition to climate pressure from financial institutions, superyachts are facing increasing scrutiny from both society and the media, who are increasingly questioning the purpose of superyachts, with some being larger than boutique cruise vessels. This further adds to the risk faced by the superyacht industry. “An asset can also become a stranded asset due to societal pressure,” he warned. “Private aviation and yachts have been a particular target of this, with societies around the world saying that these things simply no longer have a purpose on the planet. Society and the media are asking, ‘What is this gargantuan mass of steel for? What purpose do they serve?’”

The answer to these risks is Yacht Zero. Developed by Captain Marrison via Blue ESG, in collaboration with Lloyd’s Register, Yacht Zero seeks to help yachts maintain their license to operate by adopting a credible decarbonisation tool and strategy that will satisfy regulators and financial and insurance institutions. It has the chance to illustrate to society that the industry acknowledges the problem and that it is taking bold and measurable steps to immediately and effectively reduce its emissions.

Yachts that work with Yacht Zero can look forward to a secure valuation, getting ahead of incoming, cascading emissions and sustainability regulations, and they can boost their own operational performance and efficiency, all while maintaining their license to operate and thus avoiding becoming a stranded asset.

Make the world a better place

Superyacht owners who are ready to ensure that their own yacht is making the world a better place are invited to contact Captain Marrison directly or via the Blue ESG website for a personalised consultation.

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Superyacht Carbon Intensity Index (SCII), Our complete toolkit for superyachts to attain MARPOL VI - CII compliance and achieve operational Net Zero emissions targets. A process of continuous improvement.

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August 30, 2023

Project Zero

Fossil free yacht makes first splash.

Over three years ago, the basis for a unique concept was laid by Foundation⁰ – the build of a completely fossil free sailing yacht. Project Zero, as the initiative is known, seeks to unlock new zero-emission energy sources, rethinking fundamental issues regarding energy harvesting, savings, storage and energy management on the path to develop a new standard for marine travelling. Commissioned by Foundation Zero, a team of renowned industry experts has assembled to bring this project to life, including Dykstra Naval Architects, Vripack Yacht Design and Vitters Shipyard.

Today, we are proud to announce that after 11 months of construction, project 3094, has made her first and preliminary splash. Vitters Shipyard has subcontracted the hull to ‘Jacht- en Scheepswerf Gouwerok’ in Aalsmeer, The Netherlands. In the upcoming days the hull will be transported to the outfitting facilities of Vitters Shipyard. For this classic sketch Dykstra Naval Architects is responsible for the naval architecture where Vripack took on the challenge for the exterior and interior styling.

Soon entering the next phase for Vitters Shipyard when Project Zero will reach the, so called, hotwork free milestone (finishing of the welding work) after which the outfitting of this groundbreaking yacht will continue.

Throughout the project numerous important milestones will pass on all levels of the development, which will be captured and shared with the general public. In line with Foundation⁰’s mission, all data will be made available through open source, to those who are interested and for all to benefit from. Ultimately contributing to positive impact by changing the maritime industry.

It starts with imagining what is possible.

https://www.foundationzero.org/

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By Jack Hogan 05 May 2023

Project Zero

A close-up look at vitters’ 69m ketch and the foundation behind it, with marnix hoekstra, co-creative director at vripack….

The concept of a zero-fossil-fuel superyacht has seemed a bridge too far for much of the industry despite the imperative placed on it by encroaching regulatory frameworks. There are many different roads to reach this target. The zero-emissions arms race may have been slow out of the blocks, with more than a few false starts, but one project may be half a boat length ahead.

Many of the leading motoryacht manufacturers have intriguing projects in the pipeline. This side of the industry has the advantage of looking to developments in the commercial sector for inspiration, with methanol, cryogenic hydrogen and ammonia just some of the solutions in various stages of development across the leading commercial suppliers and shipyards.

The majority of ‘sustainability solutions’ are less ambitious than zero-fossil fuels. Despite the unambiguous nature of emissions targets, impeding regulations and dire environmental warnings, many developments and concepts require more than a little mental gymnastics to reframe as being green.

Traditional motoryachts adhering to design conventions are destined to be integrators of incremental solutions offering limited gains, adapting through the piecemeal adoption of disparate technologies. A battery bank here, a methanol conversion kit there, each giving partial solutions that, collectively, are often less than the sum of their parts.

Foundation Zero is ‘on a mission to make sustainable marine travel and hospitality solutions a reality’. Created by a group of impact investors and a team of leading physicists, computer and data scientists, battery specialists and cutting-edge naval architects, with the objective to build the world’s first fossil-fuel-free superyacht.

Project Zero is the centrepiece of the Foundation Zero mission, developed by a group of investors in collaboration with Vripack Design Dykstra Naval Architects , Vitters Shipyard and a wide array of technicians. Intriguingly, Foundation Zero is also open source, with all of the technology available in the public domain. The secrecy surrounding projects with what is in reality a low product variance is maddening at times, to have something this potentially paradigm shifting open to all may be the most ground-breaking innovation.

“It sounds simple, but the biggest eye-opener has been that from day one we’ve said that there isn’t going to be a combustion engine on board. We’re not going to have fuel tanks, engine room or generators, they’re just not there. It’s strange but liberating.”

“There are a lot of projects today that claim to be electrical, and they get published by the yachting media. However, when you [dig] a little deeper there is always a 350kW generator or something in the back disguised as a range extender, or words to that effect. It’s just a combustion engine that burns fuel and then stores the power in it at the end of the day.”

Project Zero is going all in. Along with the technical challenges presented by this build is trying to holistically approach the interplay between design and operation. Hoekstra explains that Dykstra Naval Architects, for example, has invested heavily in weather route predictions and algorithmic modelling to analyse 30 years’ worth of weather data. With near total reliance on wind propulsion, Project Zero is going to be at the mercy of the elements.

“That is arguably the most interesting aspect of this project [the outside of the industry influence],” adds Hoekstra. “To give another example, we have physicists who, relatively speaking, may not know much about yacht design. However, with the extensive data that we can provide, they can use computer modelling to examine the thermodynamic properties in incredible detail.”

Diesel is a really beautiful energy carrier, as Hoekstra frames it. It is, in many ways, the metronome by which the industry keeps its rhythm. Reliable, cheap and dirty, its availability and characteristics have shaped the design conventions and rhythms of the superyacht industry for generations.

Without it, or another similarly reliable energy carrier, Project Zero can’t be over-engineered to handle everything with redundancies in the same way as a traditional superyacht. Hoekstra explains that Vitters Shipyard has played a pivotal role in the early testing of ideas and concepts, with spaces such as the roof of the shipyard used to test prototypes.

The equally challenging aspect of the build, according to Bas Peute of Vitter Shipyard, is the myriad of small energy savings that are needed to bring Project Zero ’s energy demands down. “A conventional sailing yacht this size would have an average energy consumption of 60kW. The target that is set for Project Zero is in the 25kW region,” says Peute.

“This can only be achieved when no stone is left unturned. For example, we are looking into the hull paint and its reflection so see what effect the paint reflection has on the heating of the interior, which then in turn needs to be cooled by the air conditioning.”

“Another area where we have put focus is the solar panels. Apart from electrical energy produced, these panels also generate heat, heat which could then be used elsewhere in the yacht.”

Sailing conventions are honed from thousands of years of testing. Form follows function in ways that can’t always be totally reimagined. The aesthetics of a design still play a significant role. As such, Project Zero will be a ketch with a relatively conventional rigging configuration.

The maximum height allowed for a vessel transiting the Panama Canal is 57.91 metres above the waterline. This is the clearance available at the Bridge of the Americas, which is the lowest point of the canal’s main navigation channel. This Panamax designation is also the limiting factor for Project Zero . While a taller rig may provide more power, the faster and safer transit through Central America makes more sense than a trip around Cape Horn for what is essentially a prototype.

The key to the system is the ability to generate and store energy. Pioneering builds such as Black Pearl from Oceanco have paved the way; it’s now up to Project Zero to take the plunge.

The analogy that Hoekstra uses for hydrogeneration is that of an electric car and its kinetic breaking generation. The electric motor can be used as a generator. As the throttle is released and the electric car is going downhill, it converts the car’s kinetic energy into electrical energy that is fed back into the battery, slowing the car down also.

The same principle is applied to the hydro-generation system on Project Zero . The calculations, as they stand, imply that it will lose around 1.5 knots of boat speed under optimal sailing conditions to generate the requisite energy storage. Much like the loss in speed when a car is coasting downhill, this energy feeds back into the system.

The amount of wasted energy on board the majority of the fleet has come into focus in recent years. The detailed analysis of on-board systems and operational profiles has revealed the extent of this wasted potential and the overcapacity of stored energy and production capacity on board to compensate for this loss.

A common misconception about sailing yachts is that while under sail they are blissfully slicing through the waves in silence. While this may be true of small traditional yachts, something the size of Project Zero requires a lot of energy, especially while sailing.

The heating and lights may keep everyone comfortable, but it’s the operation of the machinery that keeps it functioning. A one-ton anchor at the end of 120 metres of chain, for example, is very hard to lift up from the sea bed. Hoisting a main and mizzen sail simultaneously to Panamax height, while keeping the yacht steady upwind and running the various winches, draws significant power.

Below deck, the engines and generators are running at high capacity which means Project Zero will need a lot of battery power. To meet this, Project Zero ’s belly will be filled with an enormous battery bank that produces five-megawatt hours of power, fed through an electric-motor-driven system.

This amount of weight down low below the waterline has added benefits for a sailing yacht. A sailing yacht’s stability is determined by a complex interplay of factors, including the weight and shape of the keel, the yacht’s hull design, sail plan and rigging. However, by placing this much weight low down, the distance between the centre of gravity and the centre of buoyancy is increased, which in turn increases the righting moment.

Having an effective Class society that is open to new ideas is fundamental to the development of such a project. For Project Zero , Lloyd’s Register has taken up the challenge, and Hoekstra says LR has been involved from day one.

“LR was great. Before we even knew what was possible we had them at the table and we said, ‘OK guys, let’s start the conversation. Tell us what we can and cannot do’, and from there we tried to push the leading edge of what is possible. Ambition is one thing but we have to send a safe boat to sea when completed.” 

Removing the centrally located engine room and engine control room (ECR), along with a completely re-thought-out tank deck and engineering space, opens up areas for a designer to create a layout that few have dared to dream of. But there are some things that are where they are for a reason.

Hoekstra explains, “Early on, there were some truly wild ideas regarding layout but comfort and convenience dictate certain conventions. Having the master cabin further aft is one such thing. It’s the most comfortable and quiet part of the boat, especially while sailing, so that is where we settled. This boat is going to do a lot of sailing, so we kept that front of mind.”

Hypothetically, limitless sailing and power generation are great, but realistic expectations are more complex. “Our aim is to achieve 14 days completely off the grid,” says Hoekstra. “By our calculations, if can sail for two hours a day, we could be theoretically free of the grid 365 days a year.”

The 1.5-megawatt generation capacity is roughly equivalent to a wind turbine with a 70-metre diameter. Immensely promising, it’s still worth reflecting on the reality of Project Zero’s likely operational profile and associated emissions load.

While the proposed cruising patterns of Project Zero are unspecified, it will undoubtedly have reliance on shore power and, subsequently, the national grid of the country in which it resides. This may be splitting hairs but it will remain, at least partly, reliant on fossil fuel and non-renewable energy.

The Mediterranean, for example, is a diverse region in terms of its energy mix, and the share of renewable energy in its power grids varies across countries. According to data from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the share of renewable energy in the power mix of Mediterranean countries ranged from less than 10 per cent to more than 40 per cent.

Countries such as Spain, Italy and Greece have made significant progress in developing their renewable energy resources and increasing the share of renewables in their power grids. For example, Spain had a 41 per cent share of renewable energy in its power mix in 2019, Italy had a 19.3 per cent share and Greece had a 15.4 per cent share. However, there is still significant room for improvement to meet the EU’s goal of achieving a 32 per cent share of renewable energy in gross final energy consumption by 2030.

Operating outside of these constraints will undoubtedly remain the lionised goal of this ambitious project. However, yachts, no matter how advanced, spend a lot of time in marinas and shipyards. Project Zero will probably not be free of this constraint.

However, from a consumption and emissions point of view, this project is at the forefront. Removing all the fossil fuels is just the start of a decades-long journey to truly emissions-free operations in the superyacht industry.

If this collection of innovators can pull this one off, the marker may be laid down for many more to follow. The custom sailing-yacht market has lagged behind a huge growth in scale and volume from the motoryacht manufacturers. If Project Zero can become a test case for zero-fossil-fuel operations, it may be the stimulus the sector needs to realise its obvious advantage in the race to zero-emission yacht operations.

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7 Eco-Conscious Yachts That Are Changing the Future of Boating, From Zero-Carbon Catamarans to Hybrids

Pure-electric trawlers and hydrogen-powered sailing vessels sound like sci fi, but they'll be on the water soon..

• Share This Article

Yachting and sustainability may sound like a paradox, but we’re steadily seeing the marine world embrace eco-change. For the yachting world, there are an increasing number of ways to boat with a lower carbon imprint. From electric-diesel hybrids to zero-carbon catamarans powered by alternative fuel sources, here is a closer look at the newest eco-conscious yachts on the water—as well as several concepts that will be on the market in the next year, and a sailing vessel that helped start the emissions-reduction trend among superyachts.

Azimut Seadeck

Having the world’s largest yacht builder embrace sustainability promises to exert pressure on hundreds of smaller builders around the world. When the three-model Azimut Seadeck  series is launched, the combination of complementary emissions-reducing technologies promises to be a major milestone for yachting.

“This is the most efficient yacht ever designed by Azimut,” said Federico Lantero, head of Product Design at Azimut/Benetti, at an event announcing the series. “We’ve identified the most recent technologies over the years, so we sat together said let’s raise the bar once again. Let’s push these technologies to the limits. It’s been like assembling a big puzzle.”

The Italian shipyard promises above-average efficiency at a wide range of speeds: The official estimates predict an emission reduction of 40 percent, thanks to Seadeck’s diesel-electric hybrid systems, lightweight carbon-fiber superstructure, solar panels, and other energy-absorption solutions.

Monaco-based designer Alberto Mancini, who penned the exterior, teamed up with other Italian designers Matteo Thun and Antonio Rodriguez, who completed the sleek interior design. Thun and Rodriquez infused the interior with the newest sustainable materials, including cork, which they describe as the “best alternative to teak.”

The concept of Seadeck’s large open aft section—dubbed “Fun Island,” follows the success of the extended deck of sister builder’s Benetti Oasis. That design was a game-changer in its wellness-outdoor living approach. Azimut will release the Seadeck models in the next 20 months, starting with the Seadeck 6 in early 2024.

Alva Yachts Ocean Eco 90 H2

In the past couple of years, German catamaran and sailboat builder Alva Yachts has turned heads with its innovative solar catamarans.  But now it’s pushing boundaries farther with the announcement of what it’s calling “the first zero-emissions superyacht catamaran to run without fossil fuels.”

The Ocean Eco 90 H2 is a special 90-foot version of the Ocean Eco 90 series, the shipyard’s flagship model. It comes in two versions: full electric and hybrid diesel-electric. The new model is the company’s first venture into hydrogen. Dubbed a “fuel-less superyacht catamaran with wings,” the H2 was requested by an existing Alva owner. It is powered only by sustainable sources, including the sun, wind, electric energy, and hydrogen fuel cells. The company’s signature solar cells generate up to 40kWp of power while twin performance electric motors give power, with the aid of the Ayro Oceanwings wind-propulsion system.

Oceanco ‘Black Pearl’

The world’s biggest sailing superyacht— Black Pearl —is also the most sustainable boat on water. Energy is saved at every turn on board the 350-foot yacht, from the HVAC system to three carbon-fiber masts, striking black DynaRig sails and aluminum superstructure that combine to make the Oceanco yacht lightweight and efficient. Controllable pitch propellers feed power back into the yacht via a pair of shaft generators providing enough power to support the yacht’s hotel load. Equipped with battery banks and a waste-heat recovery system, the gigayacht is capable of sailing across the Atlantic using only renewable energy.

Sunreef 80 Eco Marie-Joseph

Formula One champion Fernando Alonso so enjoyed his Greek charter aboard the Sunreef 80 Eco Marie-Joseph last summer that he now has a Sunreef 60 Eco in build. Equipped with electric engines, Marie-Joseph is fitted with nearly 1,800 square feet of solar panels integrated into the yacht’s composite structures, including the mast, boom, superstructure and hull sides. It’s enough to generate up to 45.5kWh, which leaves the deck areas free for guest enjoyment. In addition to the yacht’s “solar skin,” the vessel also has a hydro-generation system, which recovers energy from the propellers as well as high-efficiency batteries.

Steeler 61S Electric

Designed by Vripack and built by Steeler, the 61-foot Steeler 61S Electric is a full custom electric trawler built for a liveaboard owner. Sustainable materials, such as steel, wood, leather and Flexiteek decking, give a nod to the owner’s determination to have a lighter carbon footprint—though the biggest sustainability breakthrough lies with the boat’s propulsion and slow-boating efficiency. Though equipped to run a 75kW diesel generator, the Steeler 61S Electric is also equipped with a 90kW electric motor and can run on shore power. In true Dutch style, solar panels and windmills mounted on the roof help feed the 184kWh battery pack.

Newcastle Marine ‘Safira’

When it comes to sustainability, every little bit helps. Powered by azipod drives, which provide 20 percent more efficiency than conventional shafts, the 129-foot Safira can also run on 15-percent biodiesel. The boat is fitted with LED lighting and good insulation, which allows for smaller generators and reduced fuel consumption. Environmental considerations extend to the choice of materials as well, with reclaimed oak, remnant stone and Esthec—a synthetic replacement for teak—being used for both cabinetry and exterior decks.

Rossinavi ‘No Stress’

Italian designer Enrico Gobbi’s latest project comes in the form of Rossinavi’s first hybrid yacht. Delivered earlier this month, the 169-foot, full-aluminum sports yacht, No Stress , is powered by two MTU 16V diesel engines and two electric motors. In electric mode, the dual power system is managed by an artificial intelligence (AI) system that monitors fuel consumption. No Stress forms part of the Italian shipyard’s aim to develop boats with BluE technology. In addition to more environmentally-friendly cruising, the inclusion of AI means the owners “can enjoy the electric experience on board to the fullest,” said Rossinavi’s COO Federico Rossi, in a statement.

The Italian yard recently launched another hybrid-electric “BluE” concept called Infinity , a sailing yacht with an exterior by Fulvio de Simoni. The 138-footer has solar panels that can be stored so that yacht can navigate in full-electric mode for 90 percent of an average day. De Simoni also penned Rossinavi’s Sea Cat hybrid cat, which is currently under construction.

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McConaghy Boats in conjunction with Emirates Team New Zealand (ETNZ) are presenting options for the Hydrogen Chase Zero to meet the Protocol for the 37th America’s Cup.

Hydrogen powered performance.

The 13m Chase Zero boat has been styled for VIPs of the AC37 with a luxurious interior cabin for high-speed transfers, race spectating and race support. With high-speed performance (50 knots), and exceptional visibility, it will serve as an incredible spectating platform.

The interior can be customized to meet client needs or match race boat aesthetics, and is equipped with a head compartment, fridge, and sink, as well as air conditioning for climate control.

The Chase Zero boat currently has seating for 8 in custom-built carbon race seats.

Developed by Emirates Team New Zealand and using Toyota fuel cells, this foiling chase boat has achieved speeds of over 50 knots during trials, and delivers comfortable, eco-friendly cruising at an impressive 30 to 35 knots.

Constructed in full carbon, Nomex and structural foam, the 13m boat has a weight of 5,600kg, a draft of 2.2 metres, and a 4.5-metre beam.

The two Toyota Hydrogen fuel cells are housed within each hull and deliver 80kW’s of power each. The powertrain cooling system is via a seawater pick-up located at the front of each foil-strut torpedo, with two pick-up pumps per hull. The port and starboard main foils are connected via a central wing foil spar and the single rudder features an elevator with adjustable rudder rake.

The power is harnessed with fly-by-wire joystick controls in the main console, alongside the navigational equipment, VHF, AIS, and system monitoring displays.

Performance

To date, Chase ZERO’s top speed is 50.3 knots. This was achieved on Day 9, 29 April.

The boat takes off and fully foils at 19 knots.

Whilst travelling at 25 knots boat speed, Chase ZERO is able to perform banked turns with a radius of 48 m.

Experience with Chase ZERO has shown that an operating speed of 30-35 knots is highly efficient for hydrogen use as well as comfortable for the crew.

FOR BOATS 40’-60’

MOBILE PRO MINI

FOR BOATS UP TO 45’

Explore our Built-In WaterMakers and WaterPurifiers

Seaxchange ® watermakers.

Make freshwater from seawater. At the dock or 100 miles form shore. Your choice.

Fresh Water

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Water Maker or Dock Water

Spot Zero Water

SeaXchange ® + Spot Zero ®

Harness the power of Poseidon and turn seawater into freshwater …then purify it. And your boat will look amazing too.

Water Maker

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Design a fully customizable water system to suit your needs.

It’s not magic. It’s pressure.

Our Spot Zero ® freshwater purification systems and SeaXchange desalination systems have perfected the Reverse Osmosis process.

Success Stories

What the Pros Have To Say

Real captains. Real results.

CAPT. CASEY HUNT

74′ Spencer

“We’ve been using Spot Zero ® for 8 years and I can’t imagine life without it. It pays for itself in the first 6 months. We’re saving a ton by not hauling 50 cases of water and not having to shammy, wax, and repaint the boat every few years.”

CAPT. JOHN CRUPI

45m Dorothea III

“Running an expedition yacht that travels over 20k miles per year, I consider Spot Zero ® systems to be part of our critical equipment onboard and I wouldn’t build a boat without one.”

CAPT. BART VAN DER HORST

125′ Westport

“Our cleaning routine used to be so inefficient. With the Spot Zero ® system, it’s saving us 6-8 hours per washdown. We’ve also saved over $10,000 just in bottle water.”

CAPT. KEN DRUMGOOLE

70′ Hatteras Sportfish

“Our boat was new in 2015 and we haven’t had to polish it even once. It’s been pretty impressive not getting the hard water build-up on the boat. We evaluated several models when building our boat. Nothing compares to the Spot Zero ® water system.”

Contact Spot Zero ®  to determine which reverse osmosis system is right for you.

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Sunreef Yachts reveals first images of new zero-emission catamaran in development

Polish yard Sunreef Yachts has released the first images of its zero-emission catamaran named the Zero Cat. By producing clean hydrogen, the shipyard reaffirms its commitment to discovering "cleaner and greener yachting solutions". 

Currently in development with Sunreef's R&D department, the new sailing superyacht will measure in excess of 27.4 metres and aims to combine hydrogen power with electric propulsion for a new standard of eco-conscious cruising. It will generate net zero emissions, no nitrogen oxides or sulfur oxides. 

According to the yard, the Zero Cat will house a hydrogen generator to produce its own hydrogen sourced from green methanol on board, which will be used to power the majority of the yacht's energy requirements. Other advantages include low noise and vibration levels.

Additional green power will come from an onboard solar power system, with solar cells built into the hulls and superstructure.

The mix of power feeds into a fuel cell system used to generate zero-emission energy for both the electric propulsion and hotel load, including the air conditioning, watermakers and onboard electronics.

"Our goal is to revolutionise the industry by offering discerning customers an exceptional zero-emission sailing experience," Sunreef co-founder and CTO Nicolas Lapp said in a statement. "This project represents a milestone in our ongoing commitment to protecting our oceans and preserving the natural beauty of the sea."

The Zero Cat follows a series of new project announcements from Sunreef, including a new hybrid power catamaran range known as Ultima and a new 33M Explorer Eco model with transpacific capabilities. The yard also has 13 orders currently on order, according to BOATPro , with deliveries extending until 2025.

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NOT FOR CHARTER *

This Yacht is not for Charter*

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Project Zero

• Amenities & Toys

PROJECT ZERO yacht NOT for charter*

69m  /  226'5 | vitters | 2025.

• Previous Yacht

Special Features:

• Lloyds Register classification
• Interior design from Vripack
• Due to launch in 2025
• Shallow draft and fast speeds for reef exploration

The 69m/226'5" sail yacht 'Project Zero' is due to be launched by Vitters in the Netherlands at their Zwartsluis shipyard. Her interior is styled by Dutch designer design house Vripack and she will be completed in 2025. This luxury vessel's exterior design is the work of Vripack.

Range & Performance

Her low draft of makes her primed for accessing shallow areas and cruising close to the shorelines. She was built to Lloyds Register classification society rules.

*Charter Project Zero Sail Yacht

Sail yacht Project Zero is currently not believed to be available for private Charter. To view similar yachts for charter , or contact your Yacht Charter Broker for information about renting a luxury charter yacht.

Project Zero Yacht Owner, Captain or marketing company

'Yacht Charter Fleet' is a free information service, if your yacht is available for charter please contact us with details and photos and we will update our records.

Project Zero Photos

NOTE to U.S. Customs & Border Protection

Specification

S/Y Project Zero

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The ZEN50 is a game changer. World’s first series production catamaran equipped with a wingsail, it defines a new distinctive class of its own, where genuine zero-emission meets high comfort and performance, limitlessly. 

Designed from scratch for ZEN Yachts by award-winning naval architect Julien Mélot , this full carbon catamaran is the ultimate essence of technology driven, high performance and luxurious, eco-friendly leisure yachting. 

The blue water capable ZEN50 lightweight racing carbon hulls are combined with a huge solar roof for an unrivaled solar power vs. displacement ratio above 1:1 (18 kW / 17 tonnes), making this yacht completely energy self-sufficient. A revolutionary, fully automated, wingsail - by Ayro© - can be added as a range and speed extender. The yacht’s high capacity battery bank powers a powerful silent electric propulsion, allowing the ZEN50 to achieve 14 knots and maintain high continuous speeds in unrivaled safety and comfort, indefinitely… 

The ZEN50 is offered with or without wingsail and comes in 3 main different versions: Racer, Cruiser and Explorer, each dedicated to a different usage and owner profile. We use these versions as a basis to define a final, bespoke specification for each of our valued clients and ZEN Community Members. Scroll down for more details, specifications and prices.

1st WINGSAIL series production yacht in the world!

The OceanWings32 - by Ayro© - was initially developed for Team Oracle, for the America’s Cup 2010 in Valencia. Over years, it has further been developed and automated by VPLP and was installed on Energy Observer in 2019. Two years of field feedback have allowed the Ayro team to fine tune the algorithm commanding the wingsail. The ZEN50 is the first series production leisure craft to be equipped with this fully automated wingsail. It is controlled at the touch of a finger on screens, is automatically adjusted and has several safety modes and features. The two parts of the wingsail can be hoisted and lowered independently and with the simple touch of a button. The wingsail OceanWings32 is the ideal complement for the solar roof for those wishing to cruise long distances off-shore with zero-emissions.

Greatest ratio SOLAR POWER / weight on the market

At 17 tonnes lightweight and 18,000 W of peak solar power, the ratio of the ZEN50 is at over 1 kW per displaced tonne of water or beyond 1:1 which is far beyond any other blue water CE Cat A yacht in this size range. Lots of solar power for little water to displace is the strong and healthy foundation the energy self-sufficient ZEN50 is built upon.

Performance CARBON sandwich hulls

The hulls of the ZEN50 have been designed from a blank screen for ultimate efficiency - understand minimum drag or minimal energy consumption for a range of speeds from 6 to 10 knots. Their shape is aggressive, sharp and slender. Their reverse bows cut through water like a sword cuts through butter and their curvature is reminiscent of graceful dolphin bodies. These hulls are undoubtedly of the performance type and are built with the best available composites: Carbon fibre and Corecell™. The combination of high strength, low weight and performance design allow the ZEN50 to reach speeds of up to 14 knots.

INFINITE range at high CONTINUOUS speeds

With maximized solar and wind power and minimized energy consumption… the ZEN50 can sail continuously at speeds varying between 6 and 10 knots. Thorough simulations in various sea states and weather system have consistently shown the ZEN50 will be able to achieve performance catamaran speeds continuously without using a genset. With the ZEN50, the world is your oyster and the wildest destinations are within your reach with this self-reliant vessel!

True ZERO-EMISSION operation

The first ZEN50 unit, whose construction started in March 2023, will not be equipped with a genset at all and will not have any fossil fuels onboard. The ZEN50 energy system with its very large capacity 160 kWh battery bank, has been designed to function for days in complete safety with minimal solar energy harvest and no wind. It is perfectly safe with no backup genset and operates 24/7 without any polluting emissions.

NO FUEL , no costs

Naturally, requiring no fuel to operate day in day out is great news for the environment, it is also fantastic news when sailing into remote areas where fuel bunkering might be near impossible or where the fuel quality might be an issue. Finally, it also makes a massive difference in this yacht’s costs of operation. Imagine the hundreds of liters of diesel saved over just a week, the obsolete engine maintenance schedules, the clogged filters and dirty tanks from another age… Welcome to a new burden-free, energy self-sufficient era, welcome to clean and graceful eco-yachting, welcome to ZEN Yachts.

Highest SAFETY & reliability

At ZEN Yachts, we have made some design choices to attain energy self-reliance with the ZEN50 that reduces the habitable volume in the hulls, similar to performance catamarans. Where we have not and will never compromise is on safety. Our main voltage system is 48V making it perfectly safe to work on. The level of redundancy of the batteries and solar panels is 10! The main electrical architecture is split in 2 so that should anything happen on 1 hull, the entire vessel can still operate normally. There are 2 independent helm stations and the ZEN50 is packed with special safety features, nonsubmersible compartments and we can even offer an in-depth practical course on safety equipment usage and management. Sailing with the ZEN50 is not only exhilarating and clean, it is ultra safe!

Unrivaled space & COMFORT

The ZEN50 offers the speeds of a performance catamaran, the comfort of a large motor yacht and the simplicity of an electric car. No less than 2 large day beds, 3 dining areas for over 10 people, 1 professional galley and 2 wet kitchens, 5 heads, up to 4 double ensuite cabins, 1 bunk double and 1 single together with both saloon and dining areas converting into extra sleeping areas, this is simply unrivaled on a 50 ft. catamaran. Add an electric tender, dive compressor, satellite internet, 2 helm stations (cockpit and flybridge), a solar roof that converts into a gigantic upper deck to enjoy the most epic sunrises and sunsets, welcome onboard the ZEN50!

SPECIFICATIONS

Main particulars.

• Length Over All: 15.7m

• Beam: 8.4m

• Depth Molded: 2.7m at midship

• Displacement (light) : 17 T

• Draft (design): 1.3m (4.3ft) incl. keel

• Passenger Capacity: 12

• Berths: 12 (4 x double + 2 x single + saloon)

• Building Material: Carbon Fiber - Corecell™ composite

• Certification: CE Cat A - Unrestricted with 12 persons

Note: Some of the above figures may vary between versions

PROPULSION & ENERGY

• Propulsion: 2 x 50 kW brushless DC motors

• Main Battery Pack Capacity: 160 kWh Lithium

• Solar Roof Peak Power: 18 kWp

• Wingsail: Oceanwings® OWS 3.2 by Ayro©

• Backup Battery Pack Capacity (Nav/Com/Wing): 5 kWh Lithium

• Main System Voltage: 48V - Low voltage for total human safety

• Accommodation Voltage: 110V or 220V

SPEED & RANGE

• Max. Speed on e-motor only: 10 kn

• Max. Speed on e-motor & Wingsail: 14 kn

• Cruising Speed for continuous operation - solar only: 4.5 - 5 kn

• Cruising Speed for continuous operation - solar and wing: 6 - 10 kn

• Cruising Speed day time: 8 - 10 kn

• Range Over 24 h: 180+ nm

Note: These values may vary between versions and sea / weather conditions

EQUIPMENT INCLUDED - RACER VERSION

• Integrated power management system

• Solar power & energy storage system

• Electric propulsion system

• By-wire steering system

• Helm stations at cockpit & flybridge

• Galley counters, storage, sink, oven, stove, fridge, freezer

• 4 en suite heads with enclosed shower, toilet, sink & faucet (in each head)

• All cabin furniture (as shown in layouts)

• Aft deck fixed dining table and aft sofa with collapsible back rest (as shown in layouts)

• Fore deck day bed and lateral seats (as shown in layouts)

• Outdoor marine cork decking / indoor saloon natural bamboo decking

• All cushions In/Outdoor upholstered with Sunbrella® fabric

• 6 deck hatches

• 2 x 500 liter (2 x 132 gal) fresh water tanks

• 2 x 100 liter approx. (2 x 26 gal) fresh water tanks + 1 fresh water pump

• 2 x 350+ liter approx. (2 x 92 gal) holding tanks

• Railings, cleats and fore deck trampolines

• Mooring equipment: 33 kg Rocna® stainless steel anchor + 50 m stainless steel chain 10 mm + 150 m nylon rope + e-windlass

• Regulatory navigation equipment including navigation lights & mast

• 2 x chart plotter 16”; 2 x VHF with DSC button

• Regulatory Life Saving Appliances

• Critical spare parts kit

Note: The above equipment is for the Racer version. Cruiser & Explorer versions carry additional equipment

ZEN50 Solar Wingsail Electric Catamaran - Solar Roof Layout

ZEN50 Solar Wingsail Electric Catamaran - Flybridge Layout

ZEN50 Solar Wingsail Electric Catamaran - Main Deck Layout - Asymmetric D (subject to changes)

ZEN50 Solar Wingsail Electric Catamaran - Cabin Layout - Asymmetric D (subject to changes)

ZEN50 Solar Wingsail Electric Catamaran - Cabin Layout - Asymmetric E (subject to changes)

SOLAR & WINGSAIL

OCEAN RACER

Solar & Wingsail, basic configuration ready to sail, navigation, safety, fridge, etc.

EUR 2 400 000

WORLD CRUISER

Solar & Wingsail, well equipped configuration with, among other options, electric tender, AC and water maker

EUR 2 650 000

ARCTIC EXPLORER

Solar & Wingsail ultimate configuration with all available options

EUR 2 850 000

Solar only, ready to sail basic configuration with navigation, safety, fridge, etc.

EUR 1 850 000

CONTINENTAL CRUISER

Solar only, well equipped configuration with, among other options, electric tender, AC and water maker

EUR 2 100 000

TROPICAL EXPLORER

Solar only, ultimate configuration with all available options

EUR 2 300 000

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