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Motor vessel Saphir becomes Saphir H₂
Switzerland’s first hydrogen passenger ship from 2026
The Lake Lucerne Navigation Company (SGV) AG is taking a major step into the future: the motor vessel Saphir is being converted to an innovative hydrogen-based propulsion system and will sail Lake Lucerne as Saphir H₂ from summer 2026. This marks the launch of Switzerland’s first hydrogen-powered passenger ship – a milestone for sustainable navigation.
Objective of the conversion
Starting on 20 October 2025, the motor vessel Saphir will be converted to a hydrogen-based propulsion system. The conversion will be carried out by Shiptec AG and will take approximately six months.
Built in 2012, the vessel accommodates 300 guests and mainly operates in the Lucerne bay area on the Lucerne–Kastanienbaum route. A total of around 4 to 5 million Swiss francs will be invested – the majority in the ship conversion itself, with the remainder going towards the charging infrastructure and a hydrogen refuelling station.
The Swiss Federal Office of Transport supports the project financially and administratively within the framework of the ESÖV2050 programme, including the special approval procedures required for the use of hydrogen as a fuel.
Milestones / Project Stages
| 19.10.2025 | Last regular cruise of the motor vessel Saphir |
|---|---|
| 20.10.2025 | Haul-out and transfer of the vessel to Shiptec’s shipyard hall |
| 20.10.2025 | Start of conversion |
| Mid-January 2026 | Installation of the H₂ fuel cell |
| Mid-February 2026 | Installation of the H₂ hydrogen tanks |
| Early March 2026 | Installation of the batteries |
| Mid-May 2026 | First test run |
| planned: 01.08.2026 | First cruise as the 1-hour Saphir H₂ Panorama Yacht round trip including audio guide |
How it works
Green hydrogen (H₂) is considered a promising, emission-free energy carrier and could play an important role in the future of passenger shipping on Swiss lakes. The technology offers great potential, especially for larger vessels operating on longer routes.
On the Saphir H₂, a fuel cell generates electrical energy from hydrogen while underway – depending on demand, this power is used for propulsion, to charge the battery, or both simultaneously.
The hydrogen is supplied by the new production facility in Bürglen (UR), currently being built by H2Uri AG on the grounds of the Bürglen power plant. It is the first facility of its kind in Central Switzerland. The main shareholder is Axpo, while SGV Holding AG holds a 7% stake.
In action for you on Lake Lucerne
Enjoy a cruise on the Saphir H₂ from 2026
The Saphir H₂ offers panoramic round trips in the Lucerne bay area with unobstructed views of the city, the lake, and the surrounding mountains. The elegant vessel can also be chartered exclusively for private events or aperitif cruises.
Exclusive boat charter
Celebrate your event on the Saphir H₂
The Saphir H₂ impresses with its light-flooded panorama lounge and a unique waterside terrace that brings you closer to the lake than ever before. This elegant vessel is perfect for stylish events or relaxed evening cruises. Thanks to its compact galley, cold snacks and warm dishes are served buffet-style – ideal for aperitif cruises, late-night sailings, or a cosy raclette gathering in winter.
* Limited availability for exclusive boat charters in spring and autumn. During summer, the Saphir H₂ operates on scheduled services and can only be booked for exclusive cruises during off-peak hours.
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