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Hydrogen-powered motor vessel Saphir
Switzerland’s first hydrogen-powered passenger vessel – back in scheduled service from 2027
The Lake Lucerne Navigation Company (SGV) AG is taking a significant step towards sustainable navigation: the motor vessel Saphir has left the Shiptec shipyard as Switzerland’s first hydrogen-powered passenger vessel. The conversion is largely complete. With Axpo as its energy partner and new exterior branding, Saphir is embarking on the next chapter of its journey.
Aim of the conversion
Shiptec AG, a sister company of SGV AG, began converting the motor vessel Saphir to hydrogen propulsion at its shipyard in Lucerne in October 2025. With the fuel cell and hydrogen storage tanks installed, the conversion is now largely complete.
Built in 2012, the vessel accommodates 300 guests and mainly operates in the Lucerne bay area on the Lucerne–Kastanienbaum route. The total investment amounts to more than CHF 5 million, with the largest share allocated to the vessel’s conversion and the remainder to charging infrastructure and a hydrogen refuelling station.
The Federal Office of Transport supports the project through its ESÖV2050 programme, both financially and by assisting with the special approval procedures 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 |
| February 2026 | Installation of battery racks |
| Early April 2026 | Installation of the H₂ fuel cell |
| Late April 2026 | Installation of battery modules |
| Date to be confirmed | Installation of the hydrogen fuel cell |
| October 2026 | Conversion largely complete – Saphir leaves the Shiptec shipyard |
| 28 October 2026 | Press release: Hydrogen-powered MS Saphir – Shaping the future together with Axpo – Read the press release |
| In the coming months | Trial sailings, crew training and completion of the approval process |
| 26 March 2027 | Planned return to scheduled service |
Shaping the future together with Axpo
As its energy partner, Axpo supplies the energy for the hydrogen-powered motor vessel Saphir. The Lake Lucerne Navigation Company (SGV) AG contributes its experience in vessel operations and passenger navigation, while Axpo provides its expertise across the hydrogen value chain.
Saphir’s new exterior branding marks the first visible milestone in this collaboration. Further joint initiatives will give the partnership greater visibility on board and in the public eye over the coming weeks and months.
How hydrogen propulsion works
Green hydrogen (H₂) is produced using electricity from renewable sources. It also offers great potential for passenger navigation on Swiss lakes – particularly for larger vessels operating long scheduled routes that cannot currently run on battery power alone.
On board Saphir, a fuel cell converts green hydrogen into electrical energy as needed during the cruise. This energy charges the batteries and simultaneously powers the electric motors. No CO₂ emissions are generated during the energy conversion process in the fuel cell.
The green hydrogen for Saphir will come from H2Uri AG’s new production plant on the site of the Bürglen power station in the canton of Uri. Central Switzerland’s first hydrogen production plant is being built there. Its shareholders are Axpo as the majority shareholder, energieUri AG, AVIA Schätzle and SGV Holding AG, which holds a 7 per cent stake.
In action for you on Lake Lucerne
Enjoy a cruise on the Saphir from 2026
The Saphir 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
The Saphir 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 operates on scheduled services and can only be booked for exclusive cruises during off-peak hours.
Motor vessel Saphir – explore virtually
Explore the vessel in a 3D view and gain a first impression on board
