Inside AQUA: The 112m hydrogen-powered superyacht concept which emits only water

By Katia Damborsky 10 February 2020

Computer-generated images give us a look inside the 112m/ 372ft superyacht AQUA, an eco-friendly concept developed by Sinot Yacht Architecture that is powered by liquid hydrogen and emits only water.

Breaking new ground in form and function, AQUA is a yacht concept that’s at the cutting-edge of what is possible in superyacht design and engineering today.

The yacht concept was presented at the 2019 Monaco Yacht Show by Sinot, the esteemed Dutch design studio. They have collaborated with Lateral Naval Architects for the yacht’s naval architecture.

AQUA will be powered by liquid hydrogen stored in two on-board tanks at -423F, meaning the yacht’s only emission is water. This innovative technology nods to her namesake.

She comes with an incredible selection of amenities, including a waterfall pool and fully-equipped spa.

Speaking about the concept, designer Sander Sinot said: “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-metre superyacht with truly innovative features.

“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."

Alfresco areas

According to Sinot, AQUA has been designed to provide her guests with a constant connection to the ocean.

Renderings show an exterior inspired by the ocean, with sweeping lines and a futuristic profile that looks similar to a spaceship. Large portions of glass and bubble-hood wheelhouse add to the contemporary look.

The yacht’s alfresco areas are centred around the aft decks, which have been designed to provide maximum volume and space. The main deck aft is dominated by a huge pool flanked by steps, with a cascading water feature that offers a show-stopping entrance to anyone stepping on board.

A variety of seating options are scattered across the deck, before the space merges seamlessly with the yacht’s main salon via sliding, floor-to-ceiling glass doors. This creates a versatile winter garden that allows the deck to be enjoyed by the entire party.

The circular seating area also allows the space to function as a home cinema.

Open space continues on the upper deck aft, where guests will find more seating arranged around fire pits. Formal dining can be found forward, in an open setting that offers panoramic views over the surroundings. This deck can offer privacy or open entertainment space dependent on the needs of the guests, thanks to Japanese shoji grid screens.

Accommodation

Accommodation is provided for a total of 12 guests in seven cabins.

Occupying the forward area of the upper deck, the vast owner’s deck is a vast, interlinked space divided by finely crafted wooden screens that allow for complete privacy. On the starboard and port sides, floor-to-ceiling windows offer incredible views and influxes of light.

The ceiling in the owner’s deck varies between 280cm to 380cm, with the tallest point at the central skylight. A wooden structure extends from the skylight, with a raised platform at the base that creates a stage or display area.

The en suite facilities in the owner’s apartment are one of the focal points on board. High gloss black marble floors complement the incredible panoramic views, with a freestanding geometric tub in the centre.

His and hers vanities, basins and crescent-shaped mirrors flank the space. Large walk-in wardrobes and an office area add a level of convenience.

The remaining cabins are similarly styled, with Japanese themes, wide windows and individual en suite bathrooms. Textured silk carpets, wooden furniture and mixed textures on the walls and ceilings contribute to the holistic ambience.

Central Staircase

Situated at AQUA’s core, the spectacular circular staircase winds down from the top deck to the lower deck, floating around a cylindrical void.

A skylight is located at the top, and an art piece can be found at the base, which mirrors the skylight and reflects an ocean theme. On the lowest level, a panel of glass allows guests to see the two liquified hydrogen tanks which power the yacht.

The staircase itself features a finely crafted wooden balustrade that seems to defy gravity and catches the light created by the wave structure of the artwork. Backlit glass inserts in the steps accentuate the motif of flowing water, trickling down from the bridge deck.

Spa and Gym Area

Accessed via a circular tunnel, the health and wellness centre boasts an exclusive hydrotherapy suite and a water-level gym. The gym area opens out, giving guests the feeling of working out while being connected to the water.

There is a yoga space and workout floor, with plenty of the latest exercise equipment to ensure guests can keep up their fitness regimes.

The Aqua Room

Situated at the very bow of the yacht, the AQUA room adjoins the owner’s apartment and offers an incredible observatory area with some of the best views on board. It can remain the owner’s secret, or be enjoyed by the entire party.

While underway, guests will love getting comfortable and enjoy the feeling of being totally at one with the ocean thanks to full-height windows that eliminate the borders between the outside and the inside. A stainless steel structural support adds a polished finish to the room.

Interiors

The yacht’s interiors are a fine balance of elegance and understated, with an overarching contemporary theme. There is a large main salon with sumptuous sofa seating, a stone-paneled wall and bronze-finished sculptures.

The skylounge is primed for daytime relaxing, with huge expanses of glass and recessed seating.

How does the hydrogen technology work?

The hydrogen is pumped through a special type of fuel cell which converts it into electricity while emitting only water which can be safely pumped into the ocean.

Despite its novel fuel source, the vessel is able to reach 17 knots and travel 3,750 miles before it needs to refuel, enough to cover an Atlantic crossing from New York to Southampton.

What’s the price of AQUA?

The yacht is reported to cost around $645 million.

Media reports stated the yacht was being built by Feadship and had been purchased by Bill Gates. These claims have been denied by Sinot. The Dutch designers have said that any links between Aqua and Mr. Gates are "factually incorrect."