LIQUID ICE
The Future of Hydrogen- Powered Ocean Exploration
Can we explore the world's most remote oceans without harming the environments that make them so extraordinary?
With Liquid Ice, Aria Yacht Design and Janthina Naval Architects sat down to rethink the explorer yacht from the ground up.
The project is driven by an uncompromising vision of versatility, integrating ice-class capability, advanced energy systems, and generous living spaces with dedicated scientific research facilities. Rather than a conventional superyacht adapted for new technology, it is a purpose-built exploration platform where engineering, architecture, and life on board form a single, cohesive vision.
Next GENERATION SUSTAINABLE PROPULSION
At the heart of Liquid Ice is a hybrid hydrogen-electric propulsion system designed to combine long-range capability with quiet,
low-emission operation. The installation centres on two inherently safe liquid hydrogen storage tanks developed by SHZ Advanced Technologies. Housed in two dedicated compartments well protected against potential hull damage they supply 150 tonnes of usable liquid hydrogen to the fuel-cell system. A 13 MWh battery bank complements the fuel cells, providing green energy to both propulsion and hotel.
Liquid Ice is able to reach a maximum speed of 21 knots while cruising silently at 12 knots over a range of 7,000 nautical miles. With engine noise and vibration virtually eliminated the yacht offers a quieter experience on board while minimising its impact
on the surrounding marine environment.
Although the system requires more volume, at 650T its total fuelled weight is significantly lower than a comparable fuel-oil installation
and considerably less sensitive to changes in fuel load. The resulting stability in loading conditions eliminates the need for a ballast water system, while the installation's combination of low weight and high volume became a defining influence on the yacht’s naval architecture and exterior design.
At anchor the tank’s long dormancy times and low boil off mean no hydrogen needs to be vented unnecessarily.
At sea, the large battery bank allows the fuel cells to operate at steady, efficient loading, absorbing fluctuations in power demand
and providing additional power when required. The modular arrangement also allows individual fuel-cell units to be taken offline
for maintenance without interrupting the yacht's operation.
148,5 M
LENGHT
21KN.
MAX SPEED
28,8 M
BEAM
13,500 T
GROSS TONNAGE
DESIGNED FOR LIFE AT SEA
Liquid Ice is conceived for extended life on board in any environment
with spaces that balance social interaction, privacy and a close connection to the surrounding environment. Her layout is centred around generous outdoor living areas, complemented by sheltered observation spaces
and more intimate retreats. Throughout, expansive glazing and carefully considered transitions between interior and exterior allow life on board
to adapt to both the destination and the conditions at sea.
Life on Liquid Ice is centred around the pool deck. Framed by an impressive double height salon forward and a raised aft deck it has the feel of a private terrace at home offering a secluded space to enjoy life outdoors. At its stern the panoramic lounge offers open views of the horizon and coastline. Above, the fully certified helideck adds another dimension to the space. With the helicopter stowed below deck, the raised aft deck can be transformed into a tennis court or an outdoor cinema.
At the forward end a double-height observation lounge provides
270-degree views of the way ahead. Large glazed surfaces offer shelter when conditions demand it, while the adjoining open observation deck allows guests to experience the surroundings more directly.
Below the pool deck Liquid Ice hides her impressive spa and gym areas, beach club and toy centre spanning nearly 1,000 square meters. While on the upper deck the winter garden offers a more intimate retreat. Water features and large opening glass doors create a setting that shifts naturally between an enclosed garden and an open-air living space. One deck above, the skylounge provides a further place to withdraw, offering uninterrupted views of the night sky and the surrounding ocean.
Throughout Liquid Ice, the architecture seeks to balance openness with a sense of shelter. Warm interior materials are complemented by generous glazing, allowing the surrounding landscape to remain a constant presence without compromising comfort. Rather than treating the ocean as a backdrop, the design makes the environment an integral part of life on board.
2
HELICOPTERS
6
PERSONAL WATERCRAFTS
2
SUBMARINES
3
GUEST TENDERS
Equipped for Extreme Exploration
Designed to venture into some of the world's most remote and challenging environments, Liquid Ice combines an ice-class hull with the onboard facilities required to support extended expeditions. Beyond her role as a private explorer yacht, the concept incorporates dedicated infrastructure for scientific research – utilizing its green propulsion train to significantly reduce environmental impact. Hidden below deck are two deep-sea submarines, dedicated research labs and a mission control room enabling up to 12 researchers to live and work on board alongside guests and crew.
With Liquid Ice, Aria Yacht Design
and Janthina Naval Architects www.janthina.com propose a different vision for the large explorer yacht: one in which alternative propulsion, long-term living and scientific exploration inform the design from the outset. Still a concept, Liquid Ice offers a glimpse of a new generation of explorer yachts, designed not only to travel farther and more responsibly, but to engage more closely with the world's most remote environments.
