ANTIBES, FRANCE — June 2025, Port Vauban, Europe’s largest marina by tonnage and a key hub in the superyacht industry, has become the first yachting port to enable (LH₂) liquid hydrogen bunkering, marking a major step forward in the maritime sector’s transition to clean energy.
The announcement coincides with the arrival of a hydrogen-powered superyacht, underscoring the port’s readiness to accommodate next-generation vessels operating on zero-emission technologies. The initiative was made possible through the combined efforts of Port Vauban’s technical teams, the City of Antibes Juan-les-Pins, SDIS 06 emergency services, international hydrogen experts, and the yacht’s crew.
“The provision of such a service will enhance the attractiveness of Port Vauban, as well as our image as a port at the cutting edge of innovation,” said Jean-Pierre Savarino, President of CCI Nice Côte d’Azur and Vauban 21.
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A Strategic Mediterranean Hub
Located between Monaco and Saint-Tropez on the French Riviera, Port Vauban offers 1,642 berths, including 19 berths for superyachts along the International Yacht Club of Antibes (IYCA) quay. Known for its deep maritime heritage and proximity to landmarks such as the Antibes Ramparts and Fort Carré, the port serves as a key destination for the global yachting community.
Through its Vauban 21 redevelopment project, Port Vauban is pursuing a comprehensive transformation to become a reference point for sustainable, modern marina infrastructure. The project focuses on environmental innovation, enhanced security, and energy transition, with the goal of reestablishing Antibes as the capital of superyachting in the Mediterranean.
Supporting the Shift to Clean Marine Fuels
Liquid hydrogen is gaining recognition as a viable fuel for decarbonizing maritime transport, particularly for high-value sectors such as superyachting. Its use produces zero emissions at the point of combustion and supports quieter, more efficient vessel operation.
By enabling LH₂ bunkering, Port Vauban signals its readiness to support the future of clean propulsion and aligns its infrastructure with emerging environmental standards and owner expectations. Additional development of on-site hydrogen services is being explored to meet anticipated growth in demand.
Port Vauban’s move places it at the forefront of a broader industry shift, offering a model for how legacy ports can adapt to meet the evolving needs of modern, sustainable yachting.
About Port Vauban
Located in Antibes on the French Riviera, Port Vauban is the largest marina in Europe by tonnage and a leading destination for the international yachting community. The port offers 1,642 berths, including 19 dedicated superyacht berths along the prestigious International Yacht Club of Antibes (IYCA). Strategically situated between Monaco and Saint-Tropez, Port Vauban combines world-class nautical infrastructure with a rich cultural and architectural heritage.
Through its Vauban 21 transformation program, the port is undergoing a comprehensive redevelopment aimed at creating a model marina for the 21st century. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and service excellence, Port Vauban is committed to reinforcing its role as the capital of superyachting in the Mediterranean.
Source Port Vauban