Internationally known superyacht designer Espen Oeino has unveiled a new 65-metre (213-foot) superyacht concept known as PROJECT WATERECHO, which incorporates the latest hydro-fuel cell technologies developed for the luxury yachting industry by Viareggio Superyachts (VSY) in collaboration with Siemens and Lloyd’s Register.
VSY and Espen Oeino – Project WATERECHO
The design from Espen Oeino – which features an optional interior design from Dante O. Benini & Partners Architects – promotes awareness of environmentally responsible luxury yacht building.
The technology was first unveiled at the Monaco Yacht Show 2018, where the company reaffirmed their dedication to investing in green technologies and solutions.
Siemens developed the integrated propulsion and energy system which was originally designed for greener propulsion in the shipping industry, making use of battery systems to enhance the performance of the fuel cell modules. VSY will adapt the technology for integration with superyacht systems. Lloyd’s Register meanwhile will provide preliminary assessment to ensure sustainability in feeding the stern electric engine, leading to certification.
For propulsion, PROJECT WATERECHO will be installed with cutting-edge electric generators and exhaust gas treatment systems utilised on the main engines as well as the electric generators. A heat-efficient system and sustainable materials will also be incorporated into WATERECHO, which will reach a maximum speed of 16 knots and a cruising speed of 12 knots with a range of 5,000 nautical miles for exploring remote regions.
The accommodation provides for up to 12 guests over six en-suite cabins, with the Owner’s suite on the main deck forward allowing for ceiling heights of up to 4m/13ft. The main salon measures 13m/43ft in length and offers a generous 100m2/1076ft2 in room, all benefiting from sweeping views through the windows to port and starboard as well as the glass sliding doors to aft.
Two swimming pools are available to guests and are placed on the main deck and the sundeck aft respectively. The tender garage stores a large limo tender and a rescue tender, both of which are stored within the hull forepart to leave the lower deck aft clear for a second aft hangar. The lower deck beach club makes use of sizeable fold-down bulwark terraces to create indoor/outdoor flow while sunbathing, in conjunction with a spacious swim platform on the lower deck aft.
A crew of 16 is accommodated over 9 cabins, ensuring that there are plenty of hands-on board for smooth operations and efficient service, whether hosting a dockside event or cruising to the untamed ends of the Earth.
