Fossil-free cat
Alva Yachts’ Ocean Eco 90 H2 supercat steps toward zero-emission boating with a fossil-free power and propulsion set-up.
20 April 2023
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There have been a series of advances in recent months and years for solar and alternatively powered yachts, particularly in the catamaran sector where builders like Silent-Yachts and to some extent Sunreef have been forging ahead with renewables to try to minimise reliance on fossil fuels. Now a German builder is set to make its own step forward by building what it says is the first fuel-less superyacht catamaran with wings.
Dubbed the Ocean Eco 90 H2, the all-electric 90-footer from Alva Yachts has been conceived as the first superyacht catamaran to run without fossil fuels and produce zero emissions, but it is also designed with luxury, safety and performance in mind. Built with the latest technology, it relies on purely sustainable sources of energy.
It is powered by two performance electric motors, connected to a 500+ kWh battery pack, which is powered by the sun via 200 square metres of solar panelling plus a range extender consisting of a fuel cell supplied by EODev and integrated by SECO Marine. It will be fitted with Ayro’s Oceanwings wind propulsion system with wind sensors on the wing sails. This data is then analysed by a computer which then uses motors to adjust the wingsail’s angle of attack and camber for optimum drive.
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The Ocean Eco 90 H2’s owner has plans to use the yacht for commercial use, including private and corporate events, and chartering. He declares that his aim is to highlight to the public that we can sail safely, sustainably, with an environmentally fully clean system and with a high level of comfort, converting a dream into reality.
“We’re very happy to have found such a confident and innovative client that pushes us to explore new technologies,” enthuses Holger Henn, CEO of ALVA Yachts.
“This project would not be possible without our classification partner DNV, which has established new ground rules, especially for us because this has never been done before.
“In addition to DNV, our engineering partner iYacht has surpassed our expectations when faced with such advanced engineering challenges. What is special about this project is certainly the leap that we are making in technology,” he continues.
“A superyacht that can operate without fossil fuel is something we could only dream of. But with the help of strong partners and a lot of effort from the Alva team, we want to show what is possible in boatbuilding today.”
The yacht has been designed with responsible yachting at its core and fuses form and function together. The new vessel is an open concept, with an open flybridge and helm station as well as an upper saloon, cocktail bar and spa pool on the top deck. It offers a large beach club, water sports and entertaining areas coupled with the spacious above-deck living and relaxing zones that provide a modern ocean lifestyle.
Access to the water is easy from her twin bathing platforms. From bow to stern, this remarkable 14-metre beam catamaran offers impressive space, modern style and stable sailing. The aft deck is appointed with plush U-shaped seating for eight guests, perfect for al fresco dining or sunset cocktails. From here, guests can access the enclosed saloon and spectacular entertaining area.
The generous galley comes complete with full-size fridge-freezer and features a large separate island with bar and stools. To starboard, a large dining table for twelve provides the perfect spot for family and friends to enjoy a meal.
A large L-shaped observation seating area accompanies the helm station with commanding views forward. Amidships, two companionways lead to the accommodation in the hulls.
The generous master suite boasts spacious lounge seating areas either side of the bed, a private study and walk-in wardrobe leading to a large ensuite bathroom with dual sinks. The starboard side is complete with a twin guest room with ensuite. Further guest accommodation is located within the portside hull and features two ensuite double rooms and two single rooms which are perfect for crew or staff.
The foredeck provides another social space with two separate seating arrangements plus oversized sunbeds, complete with ample storage and refrigeration options.
The unique main deck, penthouse-style saloon and luxurious staterooms offer a new-found design direction and material selection providing elegant interiors to enchant any owner, says Alva Yachts. The layering of textural elements and the mix of furnishings and fabrics feels timeless with a modern twist that exudes quality, simplicity, and sophistication. The interior design concept and material selection is from Unalome Design.
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