Dhamma Blue is the first hydrogen-powered leisure boat to be developed and built entirely in Spain. The shipyard combines an electric drive with a fuel cell that generates electricity from hydrogen and oxygen. This process produces only water vapour. The boat reaches a top speed of 28 knots. At a cruising speed of 12 knots, the range should be around 65 nautical miles according to the manufacturer. This means that the system outperforms purely battery-powered electric boats, which usually have significantly shorter ranges.
Drive system with fuel cell
The hydrogen is stored in an on-board tank. In the fuel cell, it reacts with oxygen from the ambient air. This produces electrical energy that drives the engine. Robin Imaz, naval architect and co-founder of Dhamma Blue, explains: "If green hydrogen is used, i.e. hydrogen from renewable energies, the cycle is completely emission-free. The hybrid solution makes it possible to run on both the fuel cell and battery power.
Silent operation
As there is no combustion engine or gearbox, the boat is virtually silent. There is no engine noise and no vibrations. According to the shipyard, this is particularly advantageous in sensitive waters such as lagoons, canals or marine reserves, where acoustic pollution can disturb wildlife. Silent operation also means more comfort on board for passengers.
Equipment and room layout
The boat measures 7.90 metres in length. There is a bathing platform at the stern to make it easier to get into the water. There is a sunbathing area on the foredeck. The deck itself is made of natural cork, a renewable material. There is a cabin in the bow. The seats can be swivelled, which makes the use of the interior more flexible. The standard equipment includes a hi-fi system and a refrigerator.
Awards and honours
At the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge 2025, Dhamma Blue won the endurance record and the special jury prize. At the Green Gas Mobility Summit in Madrid 2025, the boat received an award for sustainable mobility with renewable gases. The Spanish Association of Electric Boats ANBE awarded a certificate of recognition for its contribution to the decarbonisation of shipping and the energy transition in the sustainable boating industry.
Business model of the shipyard
In addition to the model presented, Dhamma Blue is also planning series production and customised products. The company also intends to participate in hydrogen infrastructure projects in the maritime sector. This includes refuelling stations for hydrogen in ports and solutions for storing and distributing the energy source.
Technical data
- CE: C
- Length: 7.90 metres
- Width: 2.55 metres
- Depth: 0.435 metres
- Drive: Hybrid (electric motor with fuel cell)
- Range: approx. 65 nautical miles at 12 knots
- Maximum speed: 28 Nodes
- Tank for hydrogen: 8.4 kg H2
- Battery capacity: 63 kWh
- Performance: 188 PS
- Weight: 2100 kg
- Deck: Natural cork
Jan-Ole Puls
Editor Test & Technology
