Photo: Akalin Yacht Design
As the world is shifting toward a greener, more sustainable future, the maritime industry is also actively working on initiatives to move towards decarbonization and counteract the environmental impact of yachting activity. While some shipbuilders have started integrating revolutionary propulsion systems and working with alternative fuels in a bid to align the luxury yachting segment with the global climate change efforts, others are looking for ways to develop fuel-free vessels.
Called Silencieux, the innovative project is 220 feet (67 meters) long and is designed to be the world’s first “fuel-free superyacht” of its size. Akalin Yacht Designhas been working on this all-electric motor yacht for the last five years and has collaborated with Reanimer Yacht Works, U-Boat Worx, and Manta Aircraft on the design. According to the designer, the explorer should receive certification by the end of the year and it has already attracted a prospective buyer.
Developed as a response to the growing demand for large yachts to be greener and more environmentally friendly, Silencieux will be equipped with what Akalin’s studio calls a “pure energy” propulsion system. While specific details on this innovative system are still kept under wraps, the studio explains that the technology eliminates the need for fuel tanks.
Photo: Akalin Yacht Design
Moreover, the vessel will be fitted with an impressive 11.4 MW battery bank that can be recharged by H2 generators at sea. Four Flywheel Torque Generators will provide a constant supply of power with immediate on-demand availability. This should make the yacht self-sufficient in terms of energy supply, ensuring long, eco-conscious sea voyages. It will also be able to stay at anchor completely emission-free for up to three weeks.
The studio says that “[The potential owner] wants to see the system working first, so a one-on-one demo is currently being prepared. If the system works completely, the first order will be received.”
In terms of power, Silencieux’s two 1,800 kW permanent magnet azimuth thrusters will endow it with an estimated cruising speed of 16 knots, a top speed of 19 knots, and a staggering range of 14,000 nautical miles (25,900 km), ensuring the owners will be able to navigate to far-flung destinations.
When it comes to design, Silencieux marries luxury and functionality. It boasts a sleek steel displacement hull and a lightweight aluminum superstructure, with clean, sweeping lines defining its imposing profile. The layout is designed with efficiency and accessibility in mind, so all the decks are interconnected through a spacious elevator and staircase. In order to ensure privacy for those onboard, the vessel will have discreet access points for crew members on each level.
Despite its rather rugged exterior, the ice-class explorer yacht is envisioned with all the luxuries of a leisure superyacht. It offers accommodation for up to 12 guests across six cabins on the main deck, as well as 16 crew members. The owner will benefit from a dedicated deck that, apart from a lavish master cabin with dressing room and ensuite bathroom, will comprise an opulent 936-sq-ft (87-sq-m) main saloon, a gym, an office space, an open lounge, and a helipad for easy and convenient transportation.
Photo: Akalin Yacht Design
The other guests onboard will also be able to enjoy modern amenities, such as a sprawling main salon, a fitness room, a sauna, a well-equipped galley, and an aft lounge.
The lower deck is specifically designed for relaxation and socialization, housing an expansive beach club with a jacuzzi and folding balconies that further extend the lounging and sunbathing area.
To keep everyone onboard entertained during long voyages, the Silencieux motor yacht is designed with a capacious 1,830 sq-ft (170-sq-m) garage that can carry an impressive arsenal of fully-electric toys and tenders, including a 12-meter tender, a submarine, Jet Skis, and more.
The wheelhouse and captain’s quarters can be found on the bridge deck, which also houses a spacious saloon with a panoramic bar for sweeping views of the surrounding ocean. Finally, the flybridge design received the same amount of attention and is fitted with a bar, an al-fresco dining area, a sunbathing area, and yet another jacuzzi.
Akalin Yacht Design’s Silencieux project has been shortlisted for the Concept Over 40 Metres accolade in the International Yacht & Aviation Awards 2024. Marrying aesthetics, functionality, and innovation, this ice-class vessel promises to facilitate memorable journeys to remote and icy landscapes.
The yacht is part of a planned series developed in collaboration with Reanimer Yacht Works. Called the “Tranquilamente Collection,” this new series also includes the Silenzio and Silencieuse models and is being developed around fuel-less maritime technology, mainly electric propulsion and operation.
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