What makes a good boat? Is it opulence, size, comfort, or something else entirely? In today’s world, where we grapple with the climate crisis and scrutinize billionaires for their role in it, a superyacht’s ability to sail without leaving a footprint is what truly sets it apart. Fortunately for well-heeled seafarers, Sanlorenzo is now offering the world’s first superyacht that uses methanol fuel cells to produce emissions-free power for hotel loads.
The Italian yard’s new 164-foot steel superyacht, Almax, made a splash at the 2024 Monaco Yacht Show. It transcends aesthetics to redefine allure, making functionality the key takeaway. It’s not the five decks designed by Zuccon International Project Studio or the opulent interiors by Piero Lissoni that steal the show. Instead, it’s the Reformer Fuel Cell system, which uses green methanol to generate electricity, enabling carbon-neutral cruising.
The concept of using methanol fuel cells on a superyacht certainly mirrors the innovative approach Bill Gates took with superyacht Breakthrough, which emphasized sustainability and cutting-edge technology. Like Breakthrough, this new methanol-powered yacht by Sanlorenzo represents a shift towards eco-conscious luxury at sea. Almax, a mini version of Bill Gates’ superyacht of sorts, boasts the capability to operate “90 percent of typical superyacht usage time with zero emissions.”
Of course, it would be remiss not to highlight the yacht’s design innovations. With the 50Steel model, space optimization shines through in the innovative Hidden Engine Room, which modifies the traditional layout to enhance functionality. This approach opens up two levels of space, previously occupied by propulsion systems, allowing for a lounge area on the lower deck. On Almax, this space is dubbed the Ocean Lounge, which connects directly to the beach club and guest areas. Additionally, the dining room features impressive heights ranging from 2.1 meters to 3.35 meters.
The new 499GT yacht accommodates 10 guests across five cabins, including an owner’s cabin. Amenities include a swimming pool, a second pool on the sundeck, a gym, a spa area, and three fold-out terraces that create over 1,600 square feet of space while at anchor. Beyond its beauty, the 50Steel demonstrates power with a maximum speed of 16 knots, a cruising speed of 12.5 knots, and a range of 4,000 nautical miles at 11 knots, according to Boat International.
