Begun in 2022, Dhamma Blue's hydrogen boat project has reached a milestone with a prototype ready for production.
Hybrid propulsion to combine performance and energy efficiency
The prototype is based on a mixed architecture: a 135 kW electric motor (210 kW peak), coupled to a 40 kW hydrogen fuel cell (PEM technology). The system is supported by a 63 kWh lithium-ion battery. The 350-liter fuel tank (8.4 kg of hydrogen at 350 bar) feeds the fuel cell continuously.
This combination covers approximately 60 nautical miles at a cruising speed of between 26 and 28 knots this makes the boat particularly suitable for coastal cruising and day charter. This makes the boat particularly suitable for coastal cruising and day charter.
Materials and design: towards responsible construction
Initially built in fiberglass, the model is designed to eventually incorporate bio-composite materials and recycled fibers. The 7.9-meter hull and retro styling evoke Venetian water cabs, an aesthetic orientation designed to appeal to charter operators.
The challenge for construction sites is twofold: to adapt lamination processes to these new materials while maintaining mechanical performance, and to integrate a high storage volume without compromising stability or centering.
Active safety: a priority for hydrogen system integration
Hydrogen risk management was a central concern. The tank is equipped with a automatic purge system in the event of an abnormal rise in temperature or pressure, or if a leak is detected. No ignition source is present in the permanently ventilated tank compartment.
Dhamma Blue has also integrated a modular architecture to facilitate future maintenance and upgrades of the system, which is crucial in a demanding saline environment.
A market waiting for suitable port infrastructures
The main lock remains the supply . Spain has only a very limited number of portside hydrogen stations, while Italy is already planning 30 recharging points in coastal areas. Dhamma Blue is temporarily offering mobile stations on trailers, while waiting for a fixed network.
The ANBE Hydrogen Commission, which the company chairs, is actively campaigning for the deployment of port stations and the creation of "green corridors" along the Spanish coast.
An industrial ambition supported by a finalized prototype
Presented at the Barcelona Electric Marine Show in April 2025, the prototype has exceeded expectations. The boat will be certified by DNV, paving the way for the construction of the first hydrogen-powered commercial yacht . The aim is to roll out the first units by the end of 2025, at an initial cost of 25-30% higher than electric before a possible decline due to industrialization.
