Solar Impact Yacht has revealed preliminary information about its first ocean-going solar-powered yacht in advance of its official debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival next month. The aluminium vessel measuring 23,9 metres is the result of five years of research by the Swiss company, which claims to have realised its vision of a “seaworthy solar yacht with futuristic modern aesthetics.” Festival attendees at Cannes will have the opportunity to examine a virtual 3D model of the solar yacht.

According to the company, it has addressed the problems of excessive noise and rough seas by implementing solar-powered systems. In the meantime, the yacht’s SWATH (Small Waterplane Area Twin Hull) technology will reduce rolling and heeling by up to 90 percent. According to Solar Impact, the two torpedo-shaped buoyancy hulls that lie beneath the water’s surface and support the ship enable the yacht to “glide almost silently and without swaying, even over waves several metres high.”

The yacht, which has a 9.9-metre beam and a 300-square-meter solar surface, will reach a maximum speed of 20 knots. In the meantime, a diesel aggregate enables the yacht to operate even during extended cloud cover.

Four double guest accommodations and a master suite provide lodging for ten people. The yacht is also furnished with personnel quarters.

Werner Vogeli, the CEO of Solar Impact, stated, “Solar Impact is synonymous with cutting-edge shipbuilding in terms of fluid mechanics, highly efficient energy technologies, and sustainability. Our yacht design eliminates noise and CO2 emissions, making it a significant stride towards electric mobility in the maritime industry.”