Feadship has revealed HIVE, a 115-metre concept yacht developed by Studio De Voogt in collaboration with the shipyard’s naval architects and engineering specialists. The design, which is Feadship’s largest concept design to date, explores how emerging technologies and new approaches to yacht design could shape future superyachts.
The name HIVE refers to the concept’s central organising principle: a shared space where people can come together before moving towards their own activities. Like a hive, different activities coexist around a common centre.
This idea is reflected in a large open space spanning four decks. On the main deck, it can serve as a saloon, stage or auditorium, with terraces opening to both sides. The surrounding spaces can support family life as well as performances, lectures and larger gatherings. Feadship revealed the concept during the Monaco Yacht Show.
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DC, HVO, fuel cells and batteries
Technical feasibility was a key consideration throughout the development. HIVE combines a DC electrical architecture with three 900 kW variable-speed permanent-magnet generators running on HVO, fuel cells and a 5 MWh battery bank.
For zero-emission operation, the yacht can draw power from seven 75 kW solid oxide fuel cells or nine 250 kW PEM fuel cells combined with a methanol reformer. The battery capacity is approximately five times that of the pioneering 1 MWh installation on Feadship’s Savannah, while occupying a comparable battery-room footprint.
Voith Schneider Propellers provide highly precise omnidirectional thrust without conventional rudders. Already proven on ferries and research vessels, the technology offers exceptional manoeuvrability, is well suited to dynamic positioning and operates with exceptionally low noise levels.
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New exterior design
At 115 metres, HIVE also introduces a new direction in Studio De Voogt’s exterior design language. The yacht’s hull has a long, low profile. A virtual command centre replaces the conventional forward bridge, allowing the forward superstructure to accommodate owner and observation areas. Cameras and sensors provide the information needed for navigation, while retractable glass wing stations give operators a direct view during close-quarters manoeuvring.
Other features include a 20-metre pool using Feadship’s patented ContraWave technology, an underwater lounge and a retractable-roof observation lounge.
Feadship says HIVE was developed from the outset by integrating design, naval architecture and engineering, with the aim of using technologies that already exist or are under active development.
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Technical specifications
- HIVE: Steel hull and aluminium superstructure
- Design: Studio De Voogt
- Length overall: 115.00 m
- Beam overall: 17.50 m
- Draught: 4.05 m
- Fuel capacity (HVO/MeOH): 410,000 litres
- Fresh water capacity: 75,000 litres
- Fuel cells: 7x 75 kW solid oxide fuel cell, 9x 250 kW PEM fuel cell + reformer
- Generators: 3x 900 kW generator, variable speed / permanent magnet
- Batteries: 5 MWh Li-ion battery bank
- Stabilizers: zero speed
- Propulsion: Voith Schneider propeller
- Speed (cruise/max): 12/16 knots
- Range HVO: 9500 NM @ 12 knots
- Range methanol: 5000 NM @ 12 knots
Picture: At 115 metres, HIVE is Feadship’s largest concept design to date (image Feadship).
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