Saint Lawrence, the Italian luxury nautical brand, has revolutionized the maritime industry with the launching of the 50Steel, first superyacht in the world powered by a system of green methanol fuel cells. The 50 meter vessel thus represents a turning point in sustainable navigation, offering a hotel system zero emissions thanks to the innovative technology of the reformer fuel cell. The 50Steel, whose launch took place during Elite Days 2024, will be delivered by July 2024 to the company's CEO, the entrepreneur Massimo Perotti.
“In July I will go on holiday with the 50Steel” explains Perotti “and then the model will be put on sale in 2026-2027. In September, however, the boat will be officially presented at the Monte Carlo yacht show".
The unique features of 50Steel
The technological heart of the 50Steel is represented by a “reformer fuel cell” developed in collaboration with Siemens Energy. This system converts green methanol into hydrogen and, subsequently, in electricity to power all on-board equipment, without the need for hydrogen storage on board, ensuring zero-emission operation in the vessel's hotel business.
Furthermore, the superyacht is equipped with electric batteries to provide propulsion silently and cleanly during port manoeuvres.
Sanlorenzo's 50Steel also introduces an important innovation with the Hidden Engine Room system (Her), which redistributes the propulsion systems horizontally, freeing up space on the lower deck and creating an additional lounge. The superyacht is spread over five staggered decks, with an internal architecture that does not alter the external profile. Inside, she offers a large main salon, stairs designed to let in light, a gym, a spa, a second salon, a dining room, four guest cabins, an owner's cabin and two swimming pools. The design was developed by the studio Zuccon International Project and interiors designed by Piero Lissoni.
Il price of 50Steel? All to be established since it remains complicated to find green methanol for refueling and therefore determine operating costs.
Perotti: “50Steel, a fundamental stage in the history of Sanlorenzo”
Massimo Perotti, CEO of Sanlorenzo, underlined the importance of this innovation in the nautical panorama, highlighting the superiority of 50Steel compared to other solutions. In fact, compared to superyachts powered by liquid hydrogen, the 50Steel offers a more practical and safe solution, without the need for complex refueling infrastructure.
“With the launch of 50Steel, Sanlorenzo celebrates a fundamental stage in its history, in the name of innovation and sustainability. The new line of superyachts embodies the pioneering spirit and passion for challenges that have always guided us in the design and construction of our fleet. I believe that what distinguishes us is the ability to lead innovation in the sector, embracing cutting-edge solutions not only in design, always elegant and comfortable, but also in the field of technology and sustainability, to achieve the ambitious objectives of reducing waste. environmental footprint that we have given ourselves” commented Perotti.
The unknown cost remains: “At this moment – explains Perotti – to do a economic discussion is very difficult: the costs of the Siemens machine are not yet well known, because it is not known in what quantity it will be produced; it being understood that it will not only be used for pleasure ships but for all possible industrial applications. As for methanol, the production of the foreseeable green one at a lower cost is today in Saudi Arabia: they are covering the desert with solar panels and are able to produce a kilowatt of energy with 0,1 euro".
The 50Steel not only represents an icon of innovation and luxury, but also leads the way a new era of sustainable navigation. The introduction of eco-friendly technologies such as green methanol and fuel cells could revolutionize the maritime sector, pushing other shipyards to follow Sanlorenzo's example in adopting low environmental impact solutions.
