About the Hydrogen Sauna Boat

Hydrogen is expected to play an important role as a low-emission energy source in the marine sector. However, practical experience with hydrogen applications in everyday environments remains limited, particularly in locations where fixed refuelling infrastructure is unavailable. 

Cefmof has launched the Hydrogen Sauna Boat project in collaboration with Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. to develop and test the use of hydrogen in a recreational watercraft environment. The Hydrogen Sauna Boat serves as a proof of concept (POC) for hydrogen-powered recreational boating, and the project aims to raise awareness of hydrogen’s potential as part of future energy systems.

Objectives

The Hydrogen Sauna Boat enables Cefmof and its project partners with an opportunity to develop, test, and evaluate new hydrogen solutions in a real operating environment. The project also helps to build expertise in hydrogen use and identify new application areas. 

Another objective is to improve understanding of how hydrogen can be used in environments without fixed hydrogen infrastructure. The project will provide practical experience that can help applications and support the growth of the hydrogen economy in Finland.   

Features of the Hydrogen Sauna Boat

The Hydrogen Sauna Boat uses swappable hydrogen cartridges, enabling hydrogen use without harbor-based refuelling infrastructure. Hydrogen is used both for electricity generation through a fuel cell system and as a direct energy source for sauna heating and grilling.

A single kilogram of hydrogen enables approximately two hours of operation, allowing passengers to enjoy a cruise, a hydrogen sauna, and a hydrogen-powered grill. At the harbour, replaceable hydrogen cartridges minimise turnaround time between departures.

Yamaha Motor’s Contribution

Yamaha Motor helps demonstrate how hydrogen can be used in boating by supplying its HARMO electric propulsion system and providing technical support for its integration into the boat.

HARMO is an electric boat control system designed to provide quiet and comfortable operation on the water. Its rim-drive propulsion system delivers highly efficient thrust, particularly at low speeds, while offering excellent maneuverability. With its low-vibration and quiet operation, HARMO provides passengers aboard the Hydrogen Sauna Boat with a comfortable onboard experience and a relaxing environment.

The collaboration develops and tests solutions in which electricity generated by hydrogen fuel cells, electric propulsion, and other hydrogen-based energy applications work together as one integrated system. The objective is to learn how these technologies perform in real conditions and evaluate their suitability for a wide range of applications on the water.

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