When the Special One docked at Port Hercules for the Monaco Yacht Show, it instantly captivated attendees as the largest true sportfish yacht in the world. However, the most remarkable feature of this stunning vessel lies beneath the surface: it's designed to operate on HVO100, a fossil-free fuel.

From the initial design phase, the owners, in partnership with Dutch design studio Vripack – responsible for the yacht's exterior, interior, and naval architecture –capitalized on the opportunity to collaborate with engine manufacturer MAN to create a yacht that emphasizes both owner enjoyment and environmental sustainability.



“We implemented our most innovative naval architecture to date with this hull, leading to significantly lower resistance and, as a result, reduced fuel consumption,” stated Bart Bouwhuis, co-creative director at Vripack. “Yet, we recognized that the twin V20 MAN 4500kW drive system, which powers this yacht to speeds exceeding 32 knots, along with her twin Zenoro 180 kW generators, would still consume considerable fuel. This made the transition to fossil-free fuel a highly appealing alternative.”

HVO100 is a hydrotreated vegetable oil that can cut harmful CO2 emissions by over 90%. Made from waste generated by the food industry, it is completely renewable and traceable.

“With such a significant reduction in harmful emissions, this also means that engine components like filters and injectors remain cleaner and need less maintenance,” Bouwhuis explained. “Our team aimed to do more than just scratch the surface. What’s essential today is collaboration, dialogue, and, most importantly, action. This is our mission with the innovation behind the Special One.”

Despite acknowledging the challenges ahead, Bouwhuis emphasized the importance of perseverance in the face of complexity: “Setbacks are inevitable; the design challenge is immense and too critical to be hampered by ego. However, real change will only start when awareness is met with inspiration.”

Royal Huisman is a Dutch shipyard established in 1884 in Ronduite, building and refitting custom luxury sailing and motor yachts at its shipyard in Vollenhove, the Netherlands.

Credits: Vripack

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