Dubbed Aurora, the vessel is being built from scratch by the TU Delft Hydro Motion Team, which is set to utilise hydrogen for its power.

Under the new partnership, Marinetrans will support the team of students to compete with the novel foiling boat in the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, with hopes of showcasing sustainable propulsion solutions to the maritime industry.

Integrating a hydrogen propulsion system and in-house made lithium battery, the TU Delft-designed and build boat will be facing up against professional race teams in Monaco.

“We want to inspire the maritime industry to move towards sustainable shipping and shipbuilding. For that, we spend one year in designing, building, and racing a zero-emission boat, in this case a foiling hydrogen-powered boat,” said Emma Alblas, External Relations and Acquisition for TU Deflt Hydo Motion Team.

Alblas added, “This year, we’ll spend three months of testing the hydrogen system, the vessel characteristics and of course the foiling system; an interesting period in which our partners are regularly updated and invited to see the technology and progress for themselves. As a team we do this to show the world what is possible, and we thank Marinetrans and our other partners for enabling us to make this vessel a reality.” 

Having announced several emission-reduction schemes, including a carbon dioxide offset programme, Steven Forsberg, Managing Director at Marinetrans said sponsoring the Delft team aligned with the company’s goals.

Forsberg continued, “Innovative propulsion systems and other emission-reducing maritime systems, software or equipment are of key interest to that mission. This project, the technical developments behind it and the vessel itself provide all of that. A great example of what is possible today, especially with real teamwork.”