The $645 million Breakthrough superyacht is the world’s first fully hydrogen-powered vessel, boasting luxurious amenities like an underwater lounge and achieving near-zero emissions via cryogenic liquid hydrogen storage. Commissioned by Bill Gates but never used by him, this 390-foot behemoth has completed rigorous sea trials and is now listed for sale.
The yacht’s engineering centerpiece is its fuel-cell system, which harnesses liquid hydrogen stored at a frigid -423 degrees Fahrenheit in double-walled cryogenic tanks. This setup allows the vessel to cruise with near-zero emissions, relying on “green” hydrogen rather than diesel.
Beyond its eco-credentials, Breakthrough boasts amenities that rival five-star resorts: 14 balconies, a basketball court, multiple libraries, two offices, and an underwater lounge for panoramic ocean views. The yacht’s “net-zero” aspirations align with broader industry shifts, where hydrogen is eyed as a scalable alternative to batteries or biofuels for large vessels.
As the world’s first superyacht to fully embrace hydrogen propulsion, Breakthrough represents a bold leap into sustainable maritime travel for the ultra-wealthy and beyond. Industry insiders see this vessel as a proof-of-concept for hydrogen’s role in reducing the shipping industry’s emissions, with competitors like Lürssen and Sanlorenzo watching closely.
The vessel’s listing at the 2025 Monaco Yacht Show positions it as the star of the event, where it could fetch its asking price from eco-conscious tycoons. As one yachting executive noted, this isn’t merely a boat; it’s a statement on the future of clean propulsion, one that could inspire a fleet of hydrogen heirs.
Source: https://hydrogen-central.com/bill-gates-linked-645m-hydrogen-superyacht-breakthrough-for-sale