Cambridge University's Riviera Racing Team revealed their hydrogen-powered race boat ‘Meridian’ last week in preparation for the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge in July. The unveiling ceremony, attended by over 50 supporters, highlighted the team's dedication and hard work.
Riviera Racing, a group of innovative students, aims to promote sustainability in the maritime industry. Their zero-emissions boat, developed in collaboration with industry partners and engineering academics over 12 months, showcases the potential of hydrogen as a fuel source. The team is pioneering the integration of hydrofoils within the Energy Class framework to enhance speed. Partners such as Hill Robinson, Lateral, and Yachting Ventures have supported the project.
At the unveiling, the team provided updates on the boat's progress and future plans, including finalising the electrical engineering architecture and assembling a custom battery pack. They decided against integrating solar panels due to weight concerns. Future steps include implementing an automatic hydrogen shutoff system and integrating electrical systems on the boat.
Harsh, Co-Captain and Director of Operations, commented: "This project proves that combining an ambitious idea with truly talented people, you have the potential to create something special. Everyone here at Riviera Racing is incredibly proud of the work we have done and honoured to finally unveil Meridian to the world! We're excited to truly put Meridian through her paces and demonstrate the advantages to having the first foiling boat in our class in Monaco this summer, all while showcasing the hydrogen technology on board.”
Hill Robinson Partner Nick Hill said: “We are delighted to see the boat unveiled in all its glory and congratulate the team on their achievements to date. The team has worked very hard to design and build an environmentally friendly, alternative energy vessel that looks great and also has wider sustainability benefits. It is inspiring to see young designers coming through and meeting today’s maritime challenges head-on. We are proud to support this project and look forward to seeing the boat in the waters of Monaco.”
The Monaco Energy Boat Challenge stands as a globally recognized competition, uniting pioneers in yachting and budding engineers to showcase their zero-emission innovations. Hosted by the esteemed Yacht Club de Monaco, this event serves as the epicentre for groundbreaking ideas in alternative energy sources for yachts. Since its inception in 2014, the challenge has witnessed a surge in popularity, fostering crucial dialogues on the sustainability of the marine leisure industry. Last year, the competition drew 46 teams from 25 different nations, each pushing the boundaries of innovation on the water.
Industry leaders such as Oceanco, Ferretti, Sanlorenzo, Lürssen, Monaco Marine, and Palumbo SY Refit have consistently lent their support to the event. This backing, coupled with additional sponsorship from Credit Suisse, BMW, and SBM Offshore, firmly establishes the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge as a highlight on the maritime calendar.
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