In an effort to join the trend of developing new projects that adhere to greater environmental awareness and sustainability parameters, with the most advanced technology, and excellent performance—and without neglecting luxury—the renowned Dutch shipyard Feadship presented its new 273 feet model (83.5 meters). The Feadship Savannah comes with a diesel/electric hybrid engine, revolutionary hull design and a propulsion system that yield significant fuel efficiency.
Feadship Savannah at sea.
The world’s first hybrid mega yacht, as defined by its manufacturer, is a majestic ship with five levels created by De Voogt Naval Architects and designed by the firm CG Design. Aesthetically and technologically innovative, the Savannah has a Wärtsilä 9L20 diesel engine able to generate 1,800 kW at 1,000 rpm, propelling three Caterpillar high-power generators that store energy in efficient lithium-ion (Li-Ion) batteries.
This complex hybrid generation system feeds a set of giant propellers, about 40 percent larger in diameter than conventional models. The main propeller is located in the center of the boat. Just behind it, there is a complementary aft propeller that assists in light navigation maneuvers–mounted on a swivel that makes it possible to guide propulsion in all directions. The Savannah is the first ship of this size to have this sophisticated propulsion system.
As project manager Ted McCumber puts is, “Feadship has leveraged all the options available to bring this hugely innovative system to completion. The possibility to choose between diesel, diesel-electric or fully electric is truly exceptional. Moreover, Savannah is the first yacht in the world to be running with an azipull and a variable-pitch propeller.”
Design features of the first hybrid megayacht.
The giant, streamlined hull of the Savannah was made with a floating aluminum superstructure featuring iron panels; glass reinforced surfaces and teak decks, which have enabled it to achieve the ideal weight. The technological set of the hull, propulsion and a carefully designed hydrodynamic profile, ensure greater efficiency and average fuel savings of 30 percent.
Due to confidentiality agreements required by its owner, many details of the interior of this spectacular mega yacht were not disclosed. However, we know that the ship was built with a double master suite and room for only 10 guests, while the facilities for the crew can accommodate up to 26 members, which will allow a service to the highest level of luxury and safety. Feadship’s intention with this vessel is to make cruising more efficient and life at sea more comfortable, all while catering to an environmentally-friendly client base, providing substantial savings in fuel consumption, and lowering emissions. The Savannah is available for charter.
Among the generous teak decks of the majestic vessel, the main foredeck of the third level stands out. It shows a splendid upper terrace and another— on a higher level— with its own Jacuzzi. It also highlights the main aft deck, with access to the beach club where there is a superb pool more than 25 feet in length.
However, one of the most distinctive and attractive features of the Feadship Savannah is the spectacular lounge located below the waterline of the ship. The hull´s reinforced glass panels line one of the walls, offering magnificent underwater views. The manufacturers devised this ingenious feature to allow passengers to see and enjoy the seabed and the waters around the vessel while they relax in comfortable armchairs. ■
