Italian design studio MASK Architects has unveiled new details of its radical 85-metre hydrogen-powered superyacht concept, codenamed ONYX H2-B0 85. With futuristic styling and pioneering green technology, the project sets a bold new direction for sustainable superyacht design.
A Self-Sustaining Powerhouse
The most remarkable feature of ONYX H2-B0 85 is its integrated hydrogen propulsion system. The yacht is designed to generate hydrogen on board using electrolysis powered by hydroelectric turbines that capture kinetic energy from surrounding seawater. This closed-loop system would reduce reliance on fossil fuels, eliminate the need for large fuel reserves, and cut long-term operational costs.
Hydrogen produced through this method could be used to power engines, generators, and fuel cells, or stored as a backup. The result? A highly autonomous, zero-emission vessel capable of extended cruising with minimal environmental impact.
Advanced Engineering Meets Sculptural Design
Designed by Danilo Petta and Oznur Pinar Çer, the ONYX H2-B0 85 boasts a slim, elongated profile inspired by sport yachts. The striking silhouette houses moody, minimalist interiors that mix luxury with eco-conscious materials.
Leisure highlights include:
- A vast foredeck for sunbathing and lounging
- An al fresco dining area on the sundeck
- A glass-walled aft swimming pool offering ocean views
This blend of efficiency, elegance, and innovation is aimed at a new generation of owners looking to reduce their environmental footprint without compromising style.
How the Hydrogen System Works
The onboard hydrogen production involves several stages:
- Seawater intake and filtration to remove contaminants
- Desalination and purification of the water
- Electrolysis, where an electric current separates water into hydrogen and oxygen
- Hydrogen storage in dedicated tanks for propulsion and onboard energy
According to MASK Architects, this complex system will require collaboration with experts in marine engineering and hydrogen fuel technologies, but the result could be a truly self-sufficient yacht.
Industry Momentum Behind Hydrogen Innovation
Hydrogen propulsion is rapidly gaining traction in the superyacht world. Notably, Feadship’s 118.8-metre Breakthrough – the world’s first hydrogen-powered superyacht – is set to debut at the 2025 Monaco Yacht Show, signalling growing industry commitment to clean energy.
Ports like Port Vauban and the Port of Amsterdam are already developing hydrogen infrastructure, showing the groundwork is being laid for wider adoption.
A Vision of the Future
While ONYX H2-B0 85 remains a concept, its ambition is clear: to redefine the future of yachting through green energy, visionary aesthetics, and cutting-edge engineering. As fuel prices rise and climate urgency grows, hydrogen-powered vessels like this one may soon shift from experimental to essential.
