The marine industry has been slowly moving away from diesel with hybrid propulsion systems, fuel cells, and biofuels, but one Turkish designer wants to ditch fuel completely.
Baran Akalin just unveiled a new concept that he says could be the first “fuel-free superyacht” of its size. Christened Silencieux, the fully electric 220-foot explorer was developed over five years and should receive certification by the end of the year, Akalin says. The vessel has already attracted a prospective buyer and will be built by a “new Italian brand” if sold.
Akalin’s eponymous studio, which was established in 2020, collaborated with Reanimer Yacht Works, U-Boat Worx, and Manta Aircraft on the new, zero-emission design. The 220-footer pairs a sleek steel displacement hull with a lightweight aluminum superstructure. (A low fighting weight is essential as the heavier the vessel is the more energy is required to push it through the waves.)
The beach club.
Akalin Yacht Design
Specifics regarding the “pure energy” propulsion system have not yet been shared, but the studio says the technology removes the need for fuel tanks and the system would “fit quite comfortably” on the 220-footer. The onboard batteries can deliver 11.4 MW of power and can be recharged at sea via H2 generators. Powered by two 1,800 kW permanent magnet azimuth thrusters, the yacht has an estimated cruising speed of 16 knots, a maximum speed of 19 knots, and a bonkers range of 14,000 nautical miles. It can also stay up to three weeks at anchor running on electricity alone.
A bird’s-eye view.
Akalin Yacht Design
Silencieux is outfitted with six guest cabins for up to 12 guests, an epic owner’s suite with a dressing room, and crew quarters for up to 16 crew. It also features a sprawling main salon, a large galley, a fitness room, a sauna, and an owner’s salon.
The exterior decks offer more amenities still. The flybridge is home to a Jacuzzi, a bar, an alfresco dining table, and a sunbathing area, while the beach club is adorned with another Jacuzzi and folding balconies. In addition, a large garage can hold a tender, submarine, Jet Skis, and other water toys.
The aft decks.
Akalin Yacht Design
Silencieux is part of a new series Akalin Yacht Design is working on with Reanimer Yacht Works. A fuel-free 197-foot catamaran is also in the pipeline. Stay tuned.
