Bill Gates spent roughly $80 million securing two of the most exclusive superyacht berths on the French Riviera for a futuristic hydrogen-powered yacht project that was meant to redefine luxury sailing. The berths at Port Vauban’s famed Billionaires’ Quay were custom-configured to accommodate Breakthrough, the world’s first hydrogen-powered superyacht, and its support vessel Wayfinder. Yet despite the enormous investment and years of planning, Gates reportedly never stepped aboard the 390-foot vessel. After selling Breakthrough in a deal said to be worth around $650 million and parting ways with the support yacht, the billionaire is now putting the prized Riviera berths on the market, bringing an extraordinary yachting venture to a close.
Inside Bill Gates’ $80 million Riviera berths
The berths are located on the famous Billionaires’ Quay at Port Vauban in Antibes, one of the Mediterranean’s most prestigious marinas. This exclusive waterfront has long been a preferred destination for some of the world’s largest and most expensive yachts.Reports indicate that Gates secured the berths in 2020 through a long-term arrangement valued at roughly €63 million, equivalent to around $80 million at the time. The package included two adjacent berths designed to accommodate both a large superyacht and its support vessel.Known as A01 and A02, the berths offer rare access to one of the few locations on the French Riviera capable of handling yachts exceeding 100 metres in length.The berth configuration was created specifically for Breakthrough, the 118.8-metre hydrogen-powered superyacht built by Dutch shipyard Feadship, and Wayfinder, its 68-metre support vessel.The primary berth stretches approximately 140 metres, while the secondary berth measures about 70 metres. Together, they formed a “mothership and support vessel” arrangement commonly used by owners of the world’s largest yachts.The setup would have allowed the vessels to operate seamlessly from one of Europe’s most strategically located marinas, positioned between Monaco and Saint-Tropez.
The world’s first hydrogen-powered superyacht
Breakthrough attracted global attention because of its innovative propulsion system. Built around hydrogen fuel-cell technology, the vessel was designed to demonstrate how alternative fuels could reduce emissions in the luxury maritime sector.The superyacht combines hydrogen fuel cells with diesel-electric systems, allowing it to undertake long-distance voyages while significantly lowering its environmental footprint compared with conventional superyachts.At nearly 390 feet long, Breakthrough ranks among the largest yachts ever built and features luxurious amenities including an infinity pool, expansive guest accommodation, wellness facilities and private owner’s quarters spread across multiple decks.
Transforming Port Vauban for the future
The yacht project involved much more than the vessels themselves. To accommodate Breakthrough and Wayfinder, Port Vauban reportedly invested around €7.1 million in infrastructure improvements.The marina expanded docking facilities, modified manoeuvring areas, relocated helicopter infrastructure and created specialised access routes for heavy vehicles and support equipment. The project also laid the groundwork for one of the most significant developments in sustainable yachting.As a result of these upgrades, Port Vauban became the first marina in the world capable of supplying liquid hydrogen directly to a superyacht.
A milestone in hydrogen refuelling
One of the most significant moments in the project’s history occurred when Breakthrough successfully refuelled with liquid hydrogen at Antibes.The process required extensive coordination among hydrogen specialists, transport operators, port authorities and emergency services. Liquid hydrogen must be stored at approximately -253°C, making handling and transportation far more complex than conventional marine fuels.The successful operation demonstrated that hydrogen-powered superyachts could be supported by dedicated infrastructure, marking an important milestone for alternative-fuel maritime technology.
Gates sold the yacht before using it
Despite the scale of the project and the investment behind it, Gates reportedly never stepped aboard Breakthrough.The yacht was later acquired by Canadian billionaire Patrick Dovigi in a transaction widely reported to be worth around $650 million. Wayfinder was also sold, effectively bringing Gates’ hydrogen-yacht programme to an end.No official explanation has been provided for the decision, although the move surprised many observers given the years of development that had gone into the project.
The berths are now seeking a new owner
With both vessels gone, the final pieces of the project are changing hands. The berths are now being marketed privately and are expected to attract significant interest from ultra-high-net-worth yacht owners.Beyond their prestigious location, the berths offer access to infrastructure that is difficult to replicate elsewhere, including enhanced security, concierge services, crew facilities, helipad access and hydrogen-fuelling capabilities.
