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They are fast, futuristic and made of composites: "Sea Bubbles" are the names of the hydrogen-powered water taxis developed by the Frenchman Alain Thébault together with the Swede Anders Bringdal. The name "Bubbles" is to be taken quite literally and refers to the drop shape of the vehicle. In addition to its special shape, it is also impressive for its environmental friendliness, because the Sea Bubbles float emission-free on foils on stilts half a meter above the water.

The idea actually goes back to Thébaults daughters: „After reaching the speed record with the Hydroptère, my 3 daughters suggested to me that “I make myself usefull for the society“. I wanted to share the flying experience and open waterways for everybody. The goal is to make the riding experience on waterways the best possible so that people will be glad to choose the most eco-conscious transport solution.

Powered by an electric motor, they move silently at speeds of up to six knots: „The challenges for SeaBubbles relies on lightweight, strong and reliable materials that can be taken up industrially. Previous versions have investigated the potential of carbon fiber and glass fiber. Large assemblies are realized with special glues. We are looking closely at new sustainable and/or biosourced composite materials such as wax and vegetal fibers“, says Alain Thébault, CEO and founder of SeaBubbles.

Four people can thus be transported from one place to another. With two T-foils in the stern area and one at the bow, no one need fear becoming seasick. The stabilisation system is similar to that of airplanes: it keeps the water taxi always in a horizontal position.

The designers and founders of the start-up successfully tested their innovation on the Seine in Paris and on Lake Geneva. Meanwhile, the testing period is over: Alain Thébault: „We are starting the industrialization phase. The first SeaBubbles will be operating in August 2021 and the first one will be delivered to the Auvergne Rhône Alpes Region in France“.

And thanks to the logistical support provided by Kühne+Nagel, the "Sea Bubbles" can be experienced even before their offical starting date at Composites for Europe in November in Stuttgart.

A foretaste can be found on the "Sea Bubbles" YouTube channel.