Sanlorenzo’s 50Steel Pioneers Fuel-Cell Future

The 50Steel maintains the clean, elegant lines characteristic of Sanlorenzo yachts

I was particularly eager to visit the Sanlorenzo 50Steel after receiving a call from a broker who had previewed it just before the Monaco Yacht Show kicked off. He waxed lyrical about its unique layout and styling.

When the day came for my visit to the show, the weather was miserable – pouring rain and grey skies – but that didn’t stop a queue of eager visitors from forming to step aboard this highly anticipated yacht. With my interest piqued, I couldn’t wait to see what all the fuss was about as I stepped aboard.

Launched in May 2024 at Sanlorenzo’s La Spezia facilities, the 49.9m superyacht marks a significant leap forward in eco-friendly marine technology. It is the first superyacht to feature the modular Reformer-Fuel Cell system, capable of transforming green methanol into hydrogen, and then into electricity, to power the yacht’s hotel needs.

Siemens Energy developed the Reformer-Fuel Cell system

This revolutionary system, developed with Siemens Energy, allows the yacht to operate almost entirely emission-free, generating up to 100kW of power. While the placement of this green technology for the hotel loads in the bow slightly reduces the size of the master suite, it brilliantly ‘future-proofs’ the yacht for 2030 environmental regulations and covers approximately 90 per cent of the yacht’s typical energy needs while at anchor.

Massimo Perotti, Sanlorenzo Executive Chairman, said: “During my career, I believe I have made a meaningful contribution in terms of innovation in yachting. When I thought we could be the first, in the history of the industry, to build a yacht which could produce electricity without releasing carbon into the air, I really felt it was like we had created something very special that was leading us towards the future.

“I’m very proud to say that 50Steel is the first superyacht in the world with the Reformer-Fuel Cell system, and she marks an important milestone for Sanlorenzo, for innovation and for sustainability.”

Cutting-Edge Tech: Her System and Layout Innovation

The 50Steel also introduces Sanlorenzo’s patented Hidden Engine Room (HER) system, which dramatically redefines how space is interpreted aboard a superyacht. By moving the propulsion systems to a horizontal configuration on the lower deck, the HER apparatus unlocks significant space for leisure areas and maintains the yacht’s gross tonnage at under 500GT.

Zuccon International Project handled exterior design

This innovation makes it possible to create the expansive Ocean Lounge, which directly connects the aft beach club, featuring a stunning pool and folding side-sea terraces, with the yacht’s four guest cabins, gym, and spa on the same level.

Guest cabins are well-appointed, with all but the master suite situated on the lower deck with direct access to the Ocean Lounge, ensuring guests enjoy easy access to the yacht’s main lounging, leisure and wellness areas.

The vessel’s architecture spans four staggered levels, creating substantial volumes with minimal partitions or barriers. The flow between interior spaces is seamless, from the lower deck’s gym and spa to the upper deck’s second saloon, while net ceiling heights range from 2.1m to an impressive 3.35m.

Aft decks cascade downward to the beach club

These staggered levels are interconnected through a series of light-filled staircases, allowing for an uninterrupted experience across all areas. This results in an expansive yet harmonious feel throughout the yacht, making it a standout in terms of both spatial optimisation and luxury.

Luxurious Amenities And Onboard Experience

The Sanlorenzo 50Steel offers an unparalleled onboard experience, prioritising both luxury and comfort. One of the yacht’s key features is the 120sqm beach club, complete with three open terraces and two pools – one at the aft and another on the sundeck.

The main deck is the heart of the yacht, featuring an elegant saloon designed for relaxation and entertainment. The centrally located dining area is another highlight, offering ample space for unforgettable gatherings with family and friends.

Stairwells that lead to and from the main-deck dining room and saloon

Unusually, the master stateroom is situated on the main deck and is a sanctuary of privacy and elegance. It features a private office, two dressing rooms, and a generous ensuite, offering the perfect balance of seclusion and comfort for the owner.

The suite’s aesthetic combines dark walnut walls, Japanese-style screens, and bespoke wallpaper, a serene and very private retreat for the owner that creates a warm, minimalist, sophisticated ambience.

Designed by Piero Lissoni, the yacht’s interior combines classic and contemporary elements, exuding a sophisticated yet understated loft-style elegance. Dark wood panelling, coffered ceilings, and Lissoni’s signature clean lines give the 50Steel a luxurious, modern but warm welcoming ambience.

The main-deck owner’s cabin is home to a warm, minimalist, sophisticated ambience

Lissoni also employed advanced 3D design technology for this project, allowing precise control over every detail, and ensuring his aesthetic vision was flawlessly realised.

Pioneering Sustainability At Sea

The 50Steel represents a paradigm shift in superyacht design, especially in its approach to sustainability. Its Reformer-Fuel Cell system allows the yacht to remain anchored for extended periods without relying on diesel generators, dramatically reducing emissions. This pioneering technology marks the 50Steel as a game changer in luxury yacht carbon-neutral cruising.

Additionally, Sanlorenzo’s dedication to responsible development extends beyond technological advancements.

The lower-deck saloon can open onto a side-terrace

The shipyard actively supports marine preservation initiatives through the Fondazione Sanlorenzo, providing tools and opportunities to preserve and enhance the socio-cultural, economic and environmental heritage of Italy’s minor islands and promotes cultural enrichment through Sanlorenzo Arts, headquartered in Venice.

Aesthetic Excellence And The Vision Behind The Design

Designed by Zuccon International Project, the exterior of the 50Steel maintains the clean, elegant lines characteristic of Sanlorenzo yachts, seamlessly integrating complex interior architecture with a simple and balanced profile.

As Bernardo Zuccon explained, “The real challenge was to interpret a boat of such design complexity while maintaining balance and simplicity. Our aim was to create harmony and balance, even for the casual observer.”

In the lower-deck gym, chocolate-brown wood tones are brightened with generous glazing and interior mood lighting

The connection between interior and exterior spaces is achieved effortlessly through the yacht’s open plan and thoughtful design elements, creating a fluid dialogue between indoor and outdoor living areas. Sanlorenzo’s design philosophy emphasises maximum liveability and seamless transitions between spaces, ensuring every inch of the yacht is optimised for comfort and utility.

Technical Performance

The 50Steel doesn’t just excel in luxury and sustainability; it also delivers high performance. Powered by two MAN D2862-LE489 engines, generating 1066kW each, the yacht achieves a cruising speed of 12.5 knots and a top speed of 16 knots. Its impressive range of 4,000 nautical miles at 11 knots makes it ideal for extended voyages.

Sanlorenzo continues to push the boundaries of yacht design and technology with the 50Steel, embodying a pioneering spirit that will undoubtedly inspire the entire industry. The 50Steel goes to show that the future of yachting is here, with luxury design redefined and sustainability at its core.

sanlorenzoyacht.com
simpsonmarine.com

This article was first seen on YachtStyle.co

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