Dutch company Sinot has unveiled at this year’s edition of the Monaco Yacht Show the 112-meter hydrogen superyacht Aqua concept. The superyacht is fueled by hydrogen, a unique concept that represents a significant progress towards achieving a new balance between nature and technology. The system is based on the use of liquified hydrogen, stored at -253°C in two 28-ton vacuum isolated tanks. The liquified hydrogen is converted into electrical energy by proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells, with water being the only by–product. All parameters in terms of output, system layout, range and physical dimensions were translated to a complete hydrogen/electric based system. The generated electrical energy is transmitted to AQUA’s switchboards, where it is distributed to provide power for propulsion, auxiliary systems, and hotel services.
Entering AQUA is entering a world of privacy and space. The spectacular, extremely spacious and beam-wide owner’s pavilion, occupying the front half of the upper deck, offers an abundance of privacy. The pavilion is arranged in a vast open-plan area of interlinked spaces, divided by finely crafted wooden screens providing intimacy and subdued lighting.
Both at the starboard and port sides, floor-to-ceiling band windows supply an amazing impression of openness and freedom. The ceiling, at a height that varies from an ample 280cm to an impressive 380cm at the large central skylight, is supported by an intricately crafted wooden structure. The bedroom section is located at the yacht’s axis and offers an endless sightline all the way up to the AQUA room at the bow. The owner’s pavilion is completed with a large bathroom, dressing room and an intimate private spa section. The AQUA room, located at the bow, at the far end of the owner’s pavilion, offers a top-of-the-world feeling and endless views from the best position on board.
Located on AQUA’s beach deck, close to the waterline, the expansive and naturally outfitted VIP staterooms stand out by virtue of their spacious design and highly elaborate furniture. The VIP cabin and other staterooms are focused on openness, luxury and comfort, providing a maximum sense of freedom in a highly detailed minimalist Japanese beach-style setting.
The indoor health & wellness center is a water-world of serenity, where the reflecting waves of the water feature complement the onboard environment with their soft, vibrating motion. With an exclusive hydro-massage room, a yoga space and workout floor and a massive, gym-wide hatch that opens to reveal the ocean’s surface at water level, creating the perception of exercising and relaxing on an island in the sea.
Situated at AQUA’s core, the spectacular circular staircase is one of the yacht’s defining features, winding down from the top deck to the lower deck. A true spectacle manifests itself at the lowest level, facing aft, where two vast liquified hydrogen tanks reveal their hexagonal textured surface structure behind a giant façade of strengthened glass.
The flowing exterior lines of AQUA are inspired by ocean swells – the surge of energy induced by winds and currents, boosted by the gravitational forces that control the ocean’s tides. The curved top deck culminates in a sensational bow with integrated front bow observatory, the AQUA room, as part of the Owners pavilion. The hull is a sculpted overall double-curved volume, intersected by the glass band windows, which subdivide approaching the aft stepping down to the water.
The raised front profile with a strong forward direction in the design provides ample space for accommodating all owner’s, guests and technical facilities. AQUA is configured with a five-deck setup, utilizing forward interior space through the high sheer line which subtly descends from bow to aft. The yacht has been designed to provide those on board with the closest possible proximity to the water. The aft deck features a unique and innovative series of platforms cascading down towards the sea, while a large swim platform allows all AQUA passengers to enjoy the optimal experience of accessing the water at sea level.