Bill Gates’ Hydrogen Superyacht ‘Breakthrough’ ($645M) Goes on Sale – First of Its Kind Eco-Luxury Vessel

J Venkateswara Rao
Aug 9
2 min read

The Story Behind the Yacht

Unveiled in 2024 and publicly launched in 2025, Breakthrough (formerly Project 821) is touted as the first hydrogen fuel-cell superyacht, ushering in a new era of eco-conscious luxury. Built by Dutch shipbuilder Feadship and designed by RWD, this 118.8 m (390 ft) vessel redefines green yachting with a revolutionary propulsion system using liquid hydrogen stored at −253 °C, producing only water as exhaust.

Equipped with hydrogen fuel-cell hybrids, methanol compatibility, and biofuel generators, the yacht can cruise emission-free for short trips and efficiently power onboard systems, with waste heat recycled to heat pools and flooring.

A Floating Townhouse of Luxury

Breakthrough blends cutting-edge technology with lavish comfort:

Amenities: Underwater lounge, infinity pool, basketball court, cinema, hospital suite
Owner’s Cabin: Four-story private “townhouse-by-the-sea” with offices, gym, library, and two bedrooms
Innovations: Fourteen retractable balconies, seven seaworthy platforms, spiral staircase surrounding an elevator.

Why Is It Up for Sale?

Despite high anticipation, Breakthrough’s launch was shadowed by the surprising fact that Bill Gates reportedly never set foot on it.

Amidst his divorce and a renewed focus on philanthropy, Gates appears to have put the yacht on the market—possibly wanting to redirect resources or simplify his assets. Canadian billionaire Patrick Dovigi has been named as a potential buyer, but no finalized deal has emerged.

Quick Facts Table

Feature	Details
Name	Breakthrough (Project 821)
Cost	~$645 million
Length	118.8 m (390 ft)
Power System	Hydrogen fuel cells, methanol, biofuel hybrid
Zero Emissions (Short Trips)	Yes, plus heat recovery for amenities
Top Speed & Range	Up to 17 knots; ~6,500 nmi range
Guest & Crew Capacity	30 guests, 43 (or 44) crew
Main Features	Pool, cinema, hospital, gym, balconies, underwater lounge
Sale Status	Listed at Monaco Yacht Show 2025
Owner Visit Status	Gates reportedly never boarded

FAQs from Search Engines

Q: Why is Breakthrough up for sale?

A: Bill Gates reportedly never used the yacht, and post-divorce, he may be consolidating assets or refocused on philanthropy.

Q: What makes it unique?

A: It's the world’s first hydrogen-powered superyacht, blending groundbreaking eco-technology with luxury.

Q: What are its environmentally friendly features?

A: It operates emission-free using hydrogen fuel cells, with biofuel and methanol options for flexibility. Its heat recycling system powers onboard amenities.

Q: Has anyone bought it yet?

A: No confirmed buyer yet. Patrick Dovigi is named as a likely buyer, but the sale isn't finalized.

Q: When and where is it going on display?

A: It’s set to be showcased at the 2025 Monaco Yacht Show as possibly the largest and most advanced yacht there.

Final Thoughts

Breakthrough is much more than a yacht—it’s a milestone in marine innovation, blending ecological responsibility with opulent luxury. Its listing underscores a pivotal shift in how the ultra-wealthy can align extravagance with environmental stewardship. Even if Gates himself never used it, the true legacy lies in its technology, design, and the message it sends.