The superyacht industry has just crossed a historic milestone with the launch of Breakthrough, the world’s first hydrogen fuel-cell superyacht and one of the most ambitious vessels ever built. At nearly 400 feet (118 meters), this engineering marvel marks a turning point for sustainable luxury at sea.
A Revolution in Yachting Technology
Built by Feadship and designed by RWD, Breakthrough represents a bold step toward the shipyard’s mission to deliver net-zero superyachts by 2030. The project was commissioned by brokerage powerhouse Edmiston and is rumored to be owned by Bill Gates, though ownership remains unconfirmed.
What makes Breakthrough unique is its 3MW hydrogen fuel cell system, developed and integrated by ABB, a global leader in automation and electrification. The system is not designed to power full ocean crossings on hydrogen, but it is capable of covering the yacht’s entire hotel load—which accounts for more than 70% of its energy consumption—as well as enabling low-speed, zero-emission cruising between ports.
Technical Milestones
The yacht’s technology package is nothing short of futuristic. Alongside the 3MW fuel cell system, ABB installed:
- Two 3.2MW Azipod electric propulsion units
- The Onboard DC Grid power system
- ABB’s Power and Energy Management System (PEMS)
- ABB Ability Marine Pilot Control, a smart docking assistant
- Remote Diagnostic Services and shore connection technology
Together, these systems allow Breakthrough to operate silently and emission-free at anchor for up to a week, or to cruise at 10 knots when entering or leaving harbors and protected marine zones.
From Vision to Reality
The project, which took five years to complete, required unprecedented collaboration. Feadship, Edmiston, Lloyd’s Register, and fuel cell specialist PowerCell Group had to build an entirely new regulatory framework for hydrogen-powered yachts, covering everything from safety protocols to equipment standards.
This effort is already influencing the wider maritime sector. The same hydrogen fuel cell technology will soon power two Norwegian ferries, proving that Breakthrough is more than just a billionaire’s toy—it’s a testbed for the future of clean maritime transportation.
Making Waves Beyond Yachting
In March, Breakthrough successfully completed its first liquid hydrogen bunkering, supplied by Air Products, followed by a second refueling later that month. ABB has since confirmed the full integration of the fuel cell system, cementing Breakthrough’s position as a trailblazer for sustainable innovation.
This September, the yacht will make its public debut at the Monaco Yacht Show, where it is expected to be the undisputed star of the event. With its unprecedented green technology, groundbreaking engineering, and unmatched luxury, Breakthrough is already being hailed as the most impressive superyacht of the decade.
