Aurelia is currently working on the transformation of the historic Wijsmuller tug Titan (1956) into a next-generation yacht. The project combines maritime heritage with fully net-zero, emission-free propulsion.
The project reflects Aurelia‘s ambition to redefine shipping through practical, scalable zero-emission solutions.
Originally built in 1956, the Titan was known for its strength, reliability, and remarkable seaworthiness. Rather than replacing that legacy, Aurelia has chosen to work with it. The original hull lines are preserved, not out of nostalgia, but because they still represent a level of performance and safety that remains relevant today.
Also read: Aurelia and Ocean Cleanup explore sustainable propulsion tech
Original hull preserved
Rather than replacing the vessel’s legacy, the original hull is being preserved, while everything around it is being rebuilt. The result is a high-standard, long-range yacht concept where robustness becomes the foundation for autonomy, efficiency, and a new form of performance-driven luxury.
Aurelia’s engineering team is currently exploring fully emission-free propulsion systems, aiming to deliver a vessel that operates globally without carbon emissions. This is not treated as an add-on, but as a defining principle that shapes every design decision.
Also read: AiP for Aurelia’s green retrofit solution for a bulk carrier
Floating lab
The Titan project also serves as a floating lab for integrating advanced sustainability, autonomy, and design into a platform that was originally over-engineered for safety. That creates room to push boundaries, to test how far sustainability, autonomy, and design can be integrated without losing the vessel’s original character.
Aurelia: ‘We believe this project offers a compelling narrative on how existing vessels can be reimagined into truly future-proof, net-zero assets. Alongside our certified concepts and green propulsion developments, we selectively engage in projects that allow us to explore this vision in a more tangible, almost narrative way. The restoration of the Wijsmuller Titan Tug is one of those projects.’
Also read: How Aurelia wants to cut emissions of Carisbrooke’s Vectis Pride
Main dimensions of the Titan
- Type of vessel: Tug
- Depth (moulded): 3.899 metres
- Length over all: +/- 44.83 metres
- Breadth mdl: 7.39 metres
- Speed: 10 knots
Picture (top): Artist impression of the converted tug Titan (image by Aurelia).
