A smart hydrofoil vessel developed by Nanshan‑based Y‑H2O (Shenzhen) Technology Co., Ltd. recently placed third in the SeaLab Class at the 13th Monaco Energy Boat Challenge.

“We are the first team to bring a fully China‑made boat to the race,” said founder and CEO Wu Guan. “Previously, domestic firms only participated as equipment suppliers, providing components to overseas teams.”

The challenge, a premier competition in zero‑carbon marine technology, drew 56 elite teams from 22 countries.

The team of  Nanshan-based Y‑H2O in a Y-3 yacht during the 13th Monaco Energy Boat Challenge recently. File photos

The award‑winning Alaqua Y‑3 is a next‑generation smart hydrofoil yacht designed for the overseas leisure market. Built on Y‑H2O’s proprietary hydrofoil platform, the three‑seater reaches a top speed of 33 knots (about 66 km/h) with a 40kW propulsion system. Notably, it requires only 20kW of power to reach 18 knots, ensuring exceptional energy efficiency and roughly double the range of conventional electric boats.

By using fluid dynamics to lift the hull above the water, the yacht reduces resistance, enhances real‑world range, and delivers an exceptionally smooth ride that minimizes seasickness. The boat is suitable for family outings, leisure cruising, and short‑distance coastal commuting.

The team of  Nanshan-based Y‑H2O pose with a Chinese national flag after winning at the competition.

“I’m not a Cantonese native, but I chose Shenzhen and the Greater Bay Area because the local government strongly supports the emerging marine equipment industry with ample policy backing,” Wu said. Beyond the complete and efficient supply chain, the city’s standardized testing waters were also crucial. “Real‑world test data under various sea conditions is vital. With the help of multiple government departments, we completed all phases of water testing and accumulated massive navigation data.”

Founded in July 2025 and incubated by Shenzhen INNOX, Y‑H2O develops high‑performance smart hydrofoils for both consumer and industrial vessels. By combining advanced hardware with proprietary control algorithms, the team achieves autonomous route perception and real‑time posture stabilization to improve efficiency and ensure a smooth ride.

Wu, who studied at the University of Genoa and the Polytechnic University of Milan, completed his doctoral studies at the University of Kuala Lumpur. The team brings over a decade of combined experience in vessel design and intelligent control.

The company currently has its R&D center in Qianhai and a manufacturing base in the neighboring city of Zhuhai.