Technology: The Hydrogen-Powered Samana 59

Hydrogen

Two months ago, Fountaine Pajot organized its Innovation Show in La Rochelle, France. The theme was future solutions for decarbonising the world of leisure boating. At the event, Fountaine Pajot unveiled the Samana 59 Smart Electric REXH2, the first 100% electric hydrogen catamaran to be based on a production model.

July 12, 2023

Two months ago, Fountaine Pajot organized its Innovation Show in La Rochelle, France. The theme was future solutions for decarbonising the world of leisure boating. At the event, Fountaine Pajot unveiled the Samana 59 Smart Electric REXH2, the first 100% electric hydrogen catamaran to be based on a production model.

The Samana 59 Smart Electric X REXH2, named after the electro-hydrogen generator it carries, the REXH2, is now able to offer a 100% zero-emission navigation experience. Its system is based on 3 operating modes:

1 – The first mode allows the Samana 59 to be used in 100% electric mode. Its on-board battery of 60 kw/h, powered by a very large surface of solar panels of 42m² and a capacity of 8500 watts, as well as its hydraulic energy function, like the Aura 51 Smart Electric, allows it to be autonomous at anchor and during several hours when sailing.

2 – The second mode of operation integrates, in addition, hydrogen as a source of energy storage and thus allows for hybrid electro-hydrogen operation. Hydrogen, under pressure, feeds a fuel cell with a capacity of 70kw which will supply electricity to the electric motors. This fuel cell technology, in addition to being an efficient decarbonisation solution, allows for an increased life span of the system, equivalent to 3 times the life span of traditional diesel equipment. In use, the operation remains similar to that of a conventional hydrogen hybrid car, with recharging possibility at port via hydrogen terminals. This mode, coupled with the use of solar panels and hydrogen generation, provides a comfortable autonomy at anchor for several weeks, and 5 hours of motor navigation at a speed of 7 knots.

3 – The third mode is Diesel Hybrid operation. The Samana 59 Smart Electric X REXH2 has a back-up generator that will take over during situations that require prolonged use of the engines with no possibility of recharging with hydrogen.

Smart Electric GraphAn industrial challenge
The first challenge in this project was to integrate a complete hydrogen system on-board a production pleasure boat. The second and most important issue was safety, by having a boat that meets all the standards and technical compliance requirements for the implementation of a hydrogen system. It is a technical and industrial challenge shared with partners who are pioneers in the decarbonisation of cruising and whose future will depend on the evolution of international hydrogen infrastructures, which underlines the fact that the project is so pioneering..

 

Related Articles


Sea Ray Launches the New SDX 250 and SDX 250 Surf

Sea Ray is expanding its next-generation SDX lineup with two new models. The dynamic SDX 250 and SDX 250 Surf blend quality, functionality and capability to provide limitless fun. Available in sterndrive and surf configurations, the vessels feature powerful propulsion, abundant storage, optimized seating and premium amenities to suit any aquatic activity. Whether entertaining or wakesurfing, the versatile SDX 250 is well-equipped with plenty of room for full days on the water with family and friends.

Read More


Destinations

Dockside Dining: Frind Winery

I’m a boater – I always take friends and visitors to Frind when we’re on the boat.

Frind Winery is the perfect place for boaters to go for lunch or dinner in the Kelowna area.  You can tie up on the dock or beach your pontoon on the spacious beach. 

Frind has an Italian style brick pizza oven for gourmet pizzas and a great selection of other menu items.  You can eat on the patio, at a picnic table, on the beach, or on the lawn. You can also get your order to go and enjoy your meal out on the lake. 

Read More